4 Types Of Professionals Who Can Help Domestic Violence Victims

Domestic violence is a hidden epidemic, and one that disproportionately affects women – and community, including regular contact with friends, family, and coworkers, are a powerful force in terms of bringing such abuse to light. 

Unfortunately, during the pandemic, many experts have raised concerns that domestic violence cases could be on the rise as people face greater stress while confined at home, without support from others. 

Even in these unusual times, though, you’re not alone. If you feel unsafe in your own home, these four types of professionals can help you access critical resources.

Counselors And Mental Health Professionals

Counselors, therapists, and other mental health professionals are on the front lines when it comes to supporting domestic violence victims. That’s because they’ve chosen a career path committed to helping others, and they have a network of resources at their disposal to help you escape these situations. 

These include access to other counselors who specialize in domestic violence, shelter systems, and parenting resources, among others. If you don’t currently have a counselor that you work with, many are currently offering online services. You may also be able to access a counselor through your local community health center or social services organization.

Medical Professionals

If you’ve ever gone to a hospital for a procedure or injury, you may be asked what seems like an unusual and unrelated question: do you feel safe at home? That’s because, even when you’re seeing a doctor for entirely unrelated reasons, they are trained to screen for domestic violence and other forms of abuse, especially since patients often visit the doctor alone, and they are bound by confidentiality. This can make medical professionals seem like a particularly safe resource for those who are otherwise being isolated and controlled. 

Additionally, even if your doctor does not ask this kind of question – not all healthcare systems are trained to do so – you can always speak to your doctor if you are concerned about your safety at home.

Lawyers 

People seek legal help in association with domestic violence for a variety of reasons. Among the most common, though, are situations in which someone is raising issues of domestic violence in association with divorce proceedings.

As family law attorney Rowdy Williams explains, “People, especially women, who might not otherwise come forward about domestic abuse may feel it’s important to do so when child custody is at stake because they don’t want their children in harm’s way. However, raising the issue of domestic violence also adds another concern to the table, and can lead to a felony conviction separate from the divorce proceedings.”

Many domestic violence cases never land in front of courts, or might be handled with a restraining order rather than full prosecution, but it’s important to remember that as a victim, you have options in terms of escalation. Things may feel out of control right now, but the legal system can help you take back some of your power.

Call A Hotline

It can be hard to know where to find help as a victim of domestic violence, but there are many different advocacy and support programs that can help. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, one place you may choose to start is simply by contacting a domestic violence hotline or community advocacy group. The volunteers and employees who work with these programs are trained to help you find local resources to safely handle your situation. 

Trying to escape a situation in which you are a victim of domestic violence can be dangerous in its own right. In fact, leaving can be deadly, which is why it’s important to have support and guidance. And, when you don’t know what to do, remember what Mr. Rogers said – look for the helpers. There are so many and they want to support you.