For Service Providers

Working with Survivors

When you work with survivors of domestic violence, it is important to assess for lethality and imminence.

Providing support

When you provide support for survivors, think of the following:

• What’s the level of isolation the survivor is experiencing? Particularly if isolation was tactic used by an abusive partner.
• What kind of a support network does the client have?
• Do they have family and/or friends who can help in the immediate moment as you work with them to find options? Provide the needed referrals and resources.

Trauma Informed Framework

When working with survivors:

• Focuses on SAFETY and aims to avoid re-victimization
• Asks, “What happened to you?” NOT “What is wrong with you?”
• Appreciates that many behaviors began as understandable attempts to cope
• Strives to maximize choices and control over the healing process for the survivor
• Seeks to be culturally responsive and accessible
• Understands each survivor in the context of life experiences, cultural background, gender identity, and historical trauma

Unique challenges facing LGBTQ survivors