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Staying Safe at Home
These are stressful times because of risks to our health, many of us must stay home. For some, staying home doesn’t always feel safe because someone there may threaten or hurt you. You are the best judge of safety in your own situation. But here are some ideas for keeping yourself and others in your home safe.
Essential Resources for Victims of Domestic Violence
If you are a victim of domestic violence, and you are worried about getting help, we have resources to help with shelter and housing; financial; employment services; utilities; food; transportation and more.
Be a Support System to Loved Ones Affected by Domestic and Sexual Abuse
Family and friends can do a variety of things to support a loved one who is being abused. Check out the full list of ways to provide support.
Safety Planning with Children During an Emergency
When you live with someone who threatens your safety, you worry about your child’s safety, too. The best time to plan for safety with your children is before the emergency starts. Just like fire drills help us prepare for the possibility of a fire, talking to children when things are calm will help everyone know what to do when things are stressful. Learn more about safety planning with children during an emergency.
Preventing Domestic Abuse
Even when we feel frustrated, upset, angry, like we are about to explode and want to control someone else with words or physical violence, we can make a better choice. Hurting someone is not the answer. When we hurt someone, it’s because we are hurting inside. Instead, stop and think about other ways to handle your hurt. Follow these simple steps.
Teletherapy: Counseling from a Distance
Counseling helps people feel stronger, safer, less afraid and more hopeful. But seeking help takes effort and courage. That is why we make it easy for you to access services. Our counselors speak English and Spanish, and we use interpreters for other languages, including American Sign Language. We also offer a teletherapy option. Learn more about teletherapy.
Sexual Violence Survivors at Greater Risk of Suicide
The deaths by suicide of activist and survivor Daisy Coleman last August and her mother, Melinda Coleman, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, shine a light on the fact that everyone touched by sexual assault can face a much higher risk of suicidal feelings. All survivors deserve support to recover and lead a full life. If you have experienced sexual violence and need support, help is available. Department of Family Services division of Domestic and Sexual Violence Services also serves those who are affected by the sexual assault of someone close to them. Learn more by contacting the Fairfax County Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline 703-360-7273. Learn more about this story.
Safe Shelters Available to Victims of Domestic and Sexual Violence, Stalking, and Human Trafficking
Shelter is temporary safe housing available to victims of domestic and sexual violence, stalking, and human trafficking that offers a secure environment while victims figure out next steps and make longer-term living arrangements as they recover from trauma. Fairfax County currently offers two shelter options: Artemis House and Bethany House. Learn more about shelter options.
The Domestic Violence Action Center (DVAC) now offers late appointments and longer DVAC Main Line hours to Advocacy Services clients, extending remote services Monday-Friday between 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Advocates provide, free of charge, safety planning, crisis intervention, court accompaniment, referrals and more. Learn additional information or schedule an appointment 703-246-4573.
ADAPT Telehealth: Counseling Groups Over Video Call
We may feel frustrated, angry or concerned, and we may hurt or have hurt others close to us with words or violence. But there are safer ways to manage our emotions and make better choices. Learn about options through Domestic and Sexual Violence Services’ ADAPT: Anger & Domestic Abuse Prevention and Treatment program. This 18-week, state-certified domestic violence intervention program uses a group format to teach adults emotional regulation skills. This program will be offered through telehealth - counseling groups over video call. Contact the ADAPT Information and Intake Line at 703-968-4052 to schedule a free orientation and registration telephone appointment. Learn more about ADAPT Telehealth.
The Intersection of Gender-Based Violence and Economics
Ending gender-based violence requires us to see all the aspects of the issue. Often, when we think of intimate partner violence, we envision only bruises or broken bones—things we can see—or perhaps verbal abuse. But domestic violence takes many forms, including financial abuse, a subject that is often overlooked. The truth is personal safety and economic security are inextricably linked for victims of domestic violence. Research from the Centers for Financial Security shows financial abuse is present in 99 percent of domestic violence cases. Learn more about the intersection of domestic violence and financial abuse.
Step Up 4 Kids began when county officials realized that seeing domestic violence at any age can affect a child for the rest of their lives. Children may not have the words to tell adults how the violence in their house explains how they act. Fairfax County understands it's important for everyone to work together to meet the needs of children impacted by domestic violence. Learn about ways you can help with the Step Up 4 Kids community engagement toolkit. Check out the County Conversation podcast with Jim Person and Domestic and Sexual Violence Services Brittany Vera as they discussed the Step Up 4 Kids initiative. Make a difference for children who witness domestic violence. Learn more about Step Up 4 Kids.
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