Empowering Independence: CAPSA’s Commitment to Survivors

Empowering Independence

In the month of July, many celebrate Independence. For survivors of domestic and sexual violence, independence and freedom have often been taken or compromised. At CAPSA, our focus is on empowering individuals toward independence. This begins with the belief that survivors understand their situations and circumstances better than anyone else. We start by believing a survivor’s experience and presenting them with resources and options. We recognize the many reasons why people may choose to stay in a relationship—finances, love, dependence, or worry for children, to name a few. Understanding the complexity of abuse, and that it takes an average of seven attempts to leave, we prioritize action planning and safety planning.

Emergency Shelter

For their safety, individuals sometimes choose to access our emergency shelter. At CAPSA, our shelter is designed to promote independence. Survivors prepare their own meals, help keep the spaces tidy, and work with a caseworker to take the next steps. We acknowledge that shelter living is not a long-term solution. Therefore, CAPSA has developed a transitional housing program that offers individuals and families a longer-term option. In CAPSA’s housing program, individuals receive financial support for a time while they establish employment, childcare, a budget, and other essential tools. As individuals gain access to resources, we encourage independence so that when they move on from this program, they can live independently.

Transitional Housing

A key part of the transitional housing program is the twenty-one homes that CAPSA owns, situated in two neighborhoods named Independence Place and Independence Way. Independence Place represents a safe environment where survivors can find stability and support as they transition from crisis to confidence. Each resident is provided with the tools and resources needed to heal and grow, including counseling, education, and advocacy for themselves and their children. Our goal is to empower individuals to make their own choices and build lives that reflect their aspirations and dreams.

The name “Independence Place” is a deliberate and powerful choice, reflecting the essence of what we strive to achieve at CAPSA.

Here to Help

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of those who seek our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm response, information and support, advocacy, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA.

Understanding Elder Abuse and Finding Support at CAPSA

Elder abuse is a heartbreaking and often hidden issue affecting our older population. It’s a multifaceted problem that encompasses various forms of mistreatment, including financial exploitation, domestic violence, sexual abuse, neglect, and more. At CAPSA, support is available for elderly individuals facing these harrowing situations.  

Shedding Light on Elder Abuse: Its Prevalence and Forms  

Elder abuse, unfortunately, is more common than many might realize. Statistics reveal that a significant percentage of elderly individuals experience some form of abuse, whether it’s financial manipulation, emotional maltreatment, neglect, or physical harm.  

According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), “approximately one in 10 Americans aged 60+ have experienced some form of elder abuse. Some estimates range as high as five million elders who are abused each year. One study estimated that only one in 24 cases of abuse are reported to authorities.” 

Perpetrators of elder abuse can be both women and men. According to the NCOA, “In almost 60% of elder abuse and neglect incidents, the perpetrator is a family member. Two-thirds of perpetrators are adult children or spouses.” 

Signs of Elder Abuse 

  • Physical harm, neglect, or mistreatment: bruises, pressure marks, fractures, scrapes, or burns.  
  • Emotional abuse: inexplicable withdrawal from usual activities, sudden shifts in alertness or unexplained depression, strained relationships, or frequent disputes between the caregiver and elderly person.  
  • Financial abuse: abrupt alterations in financial circumstances.  
  • Neglect: bedsores, unaddressed medical needs, inadequate hygiene, or unexplained weight loss.  
  • Verbal or emotional abuse: demeaning remarks, threats, or the exertion of power and control by individuals. 

CAPSA: Providing Hope for Elder Abuse Survivors  

At CAPSA, compassionate and comprehensive support is available for elderly individuals experiencing abuse:  

  • Safe Shelter and Resources: CAPSA offers shelter for elder abuse survivors, as well as food, clothing, and essential resources to ensure their safety and well-being.  
  • Specialized Counseling and Advocacy: Elderly individuals facing abuse can access specialized counseling services tailored to their needs. CAPSA’s trained advocates offer support, guidance, and advocacy to help survivors navigate legal, financial, and emotional challenges.  
  • Community Education and Prevention: CAPSA actively engages in educational programs aimed at raising awareness about elder abuse, advocating for prevention, and empowering communities to recognize the signs and take action.  

Together, Let’s Break the Cycle of Elder Abuse  

Elder abuse thrives in silence, but together, we can end the cycle. By shedding light on its prevalence, understanding its intersections with other forms of abuse, and supporting organizations like CAPSA, we take a crucial step toward creating a world where elderly individuals can age with dignity, respect, and safety.  

Let’s stand united in support of elder abuse survivors, ensuring they receive the care, compassion, and resources they deserve. Remember, help is available, and you are not alone.  

Finding Help and Contributing to Change  

If an older adult is in immediate, life-threatening danger, call 911. Anyone who suspects that a vulnerable adult is being mistreated is a mandatory reporter in Utah and should contact their local Adult Protective Services office or police.  

If you or someone you know is an elderly individual facing abuse, CAPSA’s 24/7 crisis line is available for immediate assistance. Additionally, supporting CAPSA through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness can significantly impact their ability to provide crucial support to elder abuse survivors. 

Here to Help  

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

Shining a Light on Stalking: Understanding its Impact

Stalking is a pervasive issue that affects individuals regardless of age, gender, or background. It’s a pattern of behavior that can instill fear, anxiety, and a sense of helplessness in its victims. In Utah, like many other places, stalking remains a concerning problem. However, there are resources available, such as CAPSA, that stand as a beacon of hope and support for those affected by stalking and all types of abuse. 

What is Stalking? 

Stalking is defined as a series of unwanted behaviors that create fear or safety concerns in an individual. But stalking isn’t just unwanted attention or persistent contact. It encompasses a range of behaviors, including surveillance, unwanted communication, unwanted gifts, and even physical threats. Victims often feel their safety and privacy are compromised, affecting their mental well-being and daily lives. 

CAPSA: A Shelter for Stalking Survivors 

CAPSA stands tall as a local domestic violence and sexual assault shelter and recovery center, serving as a vital resource for those affected by stalking. Here’s how CAPSA supports the community: 

  • Comprehensive Support Services: CAPSA offers a range of services tailored to stalking survivors, including emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and safety planning. 
  • Community Education and Prevention: CAPSA is dedicated to raising awareness about stalking through educational programs and outreach initiatives. By fostering a culture of understanding and support, they strive to prevent stalking and assist survivors. 
  • Empowerment and Recovery: Through compassionate care and empowerment-focused programs, CAPSA helps survivors rebuild their lives, regain their sense of safety, and find the strength to move forward. 

Together, We Can Make a Difference 

Stalking is a complex issue that demands attention and action. Awareness is crucial in combating stalking. Recognizing the signs, understanding its impact, and knowing where to seek help can make a substantial difference. This is where organizations like CAPSA play an invaluable role in the community.  

By shining a light on the prevalence of stalking, raising awareness, and supporting local resources like CAPSA, we can create a safer and more empathetic community. It’s through collective efforts that we pave the way for a future free from the fear of stalking and its devastating effects. 

In Utah, and everywhere, let’s stand united against stalking and support those who need it most. 

Remember, you’re not alone, and help is always available. 

Here to Help 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA’s 24/7 helpline at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

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Self-Care Strategies: Nurturing Your Well-Being After Trauma

In the aftermath of domestic violence or sexual assault, the journey toward healing is deeply personal and often filled with challenges. At Citizens Against Physical and Sexual Abuse (CAPSA), we understand that prioritizing your well-being is an essential part of the healing process. In this blog post, we explore practical self-care strategies tailored for survivors, focusing on nurturing your mental, emotional, and physical health as you navigate the path to recovery.

1. Embrace Mindfulness Practices: Finding Peace in the Present

Tip: Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine to ground yourself in the present moment. Whether through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or mindful walks, these practices can help alleviate anxiety and promote a sense of calm.

2. Establish Boundaries: Prioritizing Your Comfort and Safety

Tip: Clearly define and communicate your boundaries to others. Establishing boundaries is a crucial aspect of self-care, enabling you to protect your emotional and mental well-being. Learn to say no without guilt when needed.

3. Cultivate a Support System: Connecting with Allies

Tip: Surround yourself with individuals who offer genuine support and understanding. Whether friends, family, or support groups, having a network of allies can provide emotional reinforcement during challenging times.

4. Engage in Therapeutic Practices: Art, Writing, or Journaling

Tip: Explore therapeutic practices such as art, writing, or journaling to express and process your emotions. Creative outlets can serve as powerful tools for self-discovery and emotional release.

5. Prioritize Physical Health: Nourishing Your Body and Mind

Tip: Pay attention to your physical health by incorporating nourishing foods, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep into your routine. Physical well-being is interconnected with mental and emotional health.

6. Seek Professional Support: Therapy and Counseling

Tip: Consider engaging in therapy or counseling to receive professional support tailored to your needs. CAPSA clinical therapists are trauma-informed experts in treating anxiety, depression and or other disorders associated with abuse. CAPSA offers free and confidential clinical therapy for adults, teens, and children.

7. Establish a Routine: Creating Stability in Chaos

Tip: Develop a daily routine that provides structure and stability. Consistency in daily activities can contribute to a sense of control and predictability, fostering a supportive environment for healing.

8. Educate Yourself: Empowering Through Knowledge

Tip: Knowledge is empowering. Educate yourself about trauma, its effects, and the healing process. Understanding your experiences can demystify emotions and contribute to a more informed self-care approach.

9. Celebrate Small Victories: Acknowledging Progress in Healing

Tip: Recognize and celebrate small victories along your healing journey. Whether overcoming a fear, establishing a new boundary, or practicing self-care consistently, each step forward is a triumph worth acknowledging.

Closing Thoughts: A Journey of Healing and Self-Discovery

At CAPSA, we recognize the resilience within every survivor and the importance of prioritizing your well-being. Remember that self-care is not selfish; it is a fundamental aspect of reclaiming your life and nurturing your spirit. As you embark on this journey of healing and self-discovery, know that you are not alone. CAPSA is here to support you, providing resources, counseling, and a community that understands the strength it takes to navigate the path to recovery. Together, we empower survivors to prioritize their well-being and emerge from the shadows of trauma into a future filled with resilience and hope.

Here to Help 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

Empowerment Through Education: What Survivors Can Learn Through CAPSA

In the heart of our community, CAPSA stands as a steadfast ally, offering a spectrum of services designed to guide survivors from crisis to empowerment. At the core of CAPSA’s mission is the belief in the transformative power of education, providing survivors with the knowledge and skills needed to rebuild their lives. 

A Sanctuary of Support 

CAPSA goes beyond traditional support structures. Nestled in the communities it serves, the organization provides a comprehensive range of services that extend a lifeline to survivors in need. From shelter and casework to legal advocacy, therapy, transitional housing, and assistance with protective orders, CAPSA is a multifaceted support system committed to addressing the unique needs of each survivor. 

Meeting Survivors Where They Are 

One of CAPSA’s key principles is meeting survivors where they are, both emotionally and situationally. The journey to recovery is deeply personal, and CAPSA recognizes the importance of tailoring its services to each survivor’s unique circumstances. By providing confidential and personalized support, CAPSA creates an environment where survivors feel safe, valued, and heard. 

Education as a Catalyst for Empowerment 

Education serves as a powerful tool for empowerment at CAPSA. The organization understands that breaking free from the cycle of abuse requires more than immediate intervention; it demands equipping survivors with the knowledge and skills necessary to reclaim control over their lives. 

Key Educational Initiatives at CAPSA: 

  • Legal Advocacy: CAPSA educates survivors about their legal rights, guiding them through the complexities of the legal system. This empowers survivors to make informed decisions about their safety and the pursuit of justice. 
  • Therapeutic Support: Through individual and group therapy sessions, survivors gain insights into trauma, coping mechanisms, and the healing process. Therapeutic education plays a crucial role in rebuilding emotional resilience. 
  • Life Skills Training: CAPSA provides practical life skills training to enhance survivors’ self-sufficiency. This includes financial literacy, job readiness, and other skills that empower survivors to build independent, sustainable lives. 
  • Protective Order Assistance: CAPSA educates survivors on the process of obtaining protective orders, offering guidance on navigating the legal system to ensure survivors can secure the protection they need. 
  • Support Groups: Survivors attending support groups find solace in knowing they are not alone. These groups not only provide emotional support but also serve as platforms for sharing experiences and learning valuable life skills. The sense of community fosters resilience and reinforces the message that survivors are supported on their journey. 
  • Prevention Education: CAPSA extends its impact beyond individual support by providing Prevention Education. The organization actively engages with schools, youth groups, and businesses, offering training on recognizing and responding to abuse, making referrals, and understanding healthy and unhealthy relationships. By educating both within CAPSA and in the broader community, the organization works towards preventing abuse and fostering a culture of awareness. 

Stories of Transformation 

The impact of education at CAPSA is not just theoretical; it’s visible in the stories of survivors who have emerged from the shadows of abuse, empowered by the knowledge and skills gained through the organization’s programs. These stories of transformation underscore the profound impact that education can have in breaking the chains of violence. 

How You Can Support the Journey 

As advocates for survivors, we invite you to join us in fostering empowerment through education. Your support enables CAPSA to continue providing vital educational resources, creating a ripple effect of positive change within our communities. Whether through donations, volunteering, or raising awareness, you become an integral part of the educational journey that leads survivors toward a brighter, self-determined future. 

At CAPSA, empowerment through education is not just a tagline; it’s a commitment to building a world where survivors can not only escape the shadows of abuse but also step into the light of a future they shape for themselves. Together, we can be architects of change, ensuring that education becomes a beacon guiding survivors on their path to healing and empowerment. 

Here to Help 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

 

The Benefits of Partnering with CAPSA – Your Local Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Service Providers

As a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting survivors of physical and sexual abuse, CAPSA is committed to working with local businesses and organizations to create safe and supportive environments for survivors. 

What is CAPSA? 

CAPSA is a nonprofit organization that provides support, advocacy, and resources to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Our services include a 24-hour crisis hotline, emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and community outreach and education. We are dedicated to creating a community free from violence and abuse. 

Benefits of Partnering with CAPSA 

  • Expertise: CAPSA has been providing services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault for over 45 years. Our staff are trained and experienced experts in working with survivors and are knowledgeable about the issues related to domestic violence and sexual assault. When you partner with CAPSA, you are gaining access to this expertise and knowledge.
  • Customized Training: CAPSA can provide customized training to your organization on how to recognize and respond to domestic violence and sexual assault. This training can help create a culture of prevention and support in your workplace or organization.
  • Resources: CAPSA can provide your business or organization with resources such as posters, brochures, and other educational materials to help raise awareness of domestic violence and sexual assault.
  • Corporate Social Responsibility: Partnering with a local nonprofit organization like CAPSA is an excellent way for businesses to demonstrate their commitment to creating and maintaining a sense of safety in our community. By supporting an organization that is dedicated to helping survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, businesses can show that they are invested in their community and making a positive impact. Supporting CAPSA showcases an organization’s dedication to social responsibility and ethical practices. This commitment can enhance the organization’s reputation and attract customers who value socially conscious businesses.
  • Employee Engagement: Involvement in supporting a cause like CAPSA’s can boost employee morale and engagement. Many employees appreciate working for companies that actively contribute to social causes they care about.
  • Long-term Impact: Supporting a nonprofit resource center for abuse victims helps create a lasting impact on the local community, potentially breaking cycles of abuse and providing essential support to those in need. 

Here to Help 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

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Hope Begins When You Start by Believing: Why Trauma-Informed Responses Matter for Survivors

At CAPSA, we believe that hope begins when you start by believing. This means that we approach survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence with trauma-informed responses, recognizing the impact that trauma can have on individuals and prioritizing their safety and well-being.  

Why Trauma-Informed Responses Matter 

Trauma-informed responses are essential for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence because of the impact that trauma can have on individuals. Responding in an appropriate, trauma-informed manner helps prioritize survivors’ safety and well-being. When survivors come forward, they are often met with skepticism and blame, which can exacerbate the trauma they have experienced. Trauma-informed responses, on the other hand, center the survivor’s experiences and prioritize their needs. 

Trauma-informed responses also recognize that trauma can have long-lasting effects on individuals and that recovery is a process. By providing trauma-informed care, survivors are given the tools and resources they need to cope with the impact of trauma and move toward healing. 

How CAPSA Provides Trauma-Informed Responses 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing trauma-informed responses to survivors. Here are some of the ways we do this: 

  • Survivor-Centered Approach: CAPSA’s services are survivor-centered, which means that we prioritize the needs and experiences of survivors in all aspects of our work. We recognize that each survivor’s experience is unique, and we believe that survivors are experts in their own experiences and that they should be empowered to make decisions about their own healing journey. We work with survivors to develop safety plans that prioritize their safety and well-being. This includes providing information on legal options, counseling services, and emergency housing, all the while providing survivors with choices and empowering their independence.  
  • Trauma-Informed Care: Our staff receive ongoing training in trauma-informed care to ensure that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective support to survivors. CAPSA’s staff, including caseworkers and therapists, recognize and understand trauma responses, such as the fight, flight, freeze, or fawn responses. This helps in avoiding re-traumatization and responding appropriately to survivors’ needs.   
  • Peer Support: We offer peer-based support groups for survivors. These groups provide a safe and supportive space for survivors to connect with others who have experienced similar trauma. 
  • Collaboration and Referrals: CAPSA collaborates with other local service providers and agencies to offer comprehensive support, effectively establishing a network for referrals, and ensuring survivors have access to various resources. 
  • Trauma-Informed Programming: CAPSA has developed programs and activities that are mindful of trauma, such as yoga, art therapy, mindfulness practices, and support groups. 
  • Cultural Sensitivity: CAPSA is sensitive to diverse cultural backgrounds and how trauma might intersect with various cultural experiences. At CAPSA, we know that providing culturally competent care is crucial to providing trauma-informed services. 

Here to Help

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

The Importance of Culturally Responsive Services in Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Work: How CAPSA Centers Your Experience 

At CAPSA, we understand that domestic violence and sexual assault affect individuals from all backgrounds and cultures. We are committed to providing culturally responsive services that center the unique experiences and needs of each survivor we serve.  

The Importance of Culturally Responsive Services 

Culturally responsive services are essential in domestic violence and sexual assault work because they recognize the unique experiences and needs of each survivor. This is particularly important for individuals from marginalized communities, who may face additional barriers to accessing support and resources. By centering the experiences of survivors, culturally responsive services can help to build trust and facilitate healing. 

In addition, culturally responsive services can help address the root causes of domestic violence and sexual assault by recognizing and challenging systems of oppression that contribute to violence. This includes addressing issues of racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, and ableism that can intersect with domestic violence and sexual assault. 

How CAPSA Centers Your Experience 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing culturally responsive services that center the experiences of survivors from all backgrounds and cultures. Here are some of the ways we do this: 

  • Multilingual Advocacy: Through our Spanish-speaking Diversity Caseworker and the translation service Proprio Language Services, CAPSA can offer advocacy services in multiple languages. This ensures that survivors who speak languages other than English can access support. 
  • Ongoing Training: Our staff receive ongoing training to ensure that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide practical, trauma-informed, culturally competent support to survivors from diverse backgrounds. 
  • Community Outreach: We partner with community organizations such as the Cache Refugee and Immigrant Connection and local LGBTQ+ resource organizations to ensure that survivors from all backgrounds are aware of our services and can access support when they need it. 
  • Survivor-Centered Approach: Our services are survivor-centered, which means that we prioritize the needs and experiences of survivors in all aspects of our work. This includes recognizing and challenging systems of oppression that contribute to violence. 

Here to Help 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

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Start by Believing: How Employers Can Play a Crucial Role in Supporting Survivors of Sexual Assault 

Sexual assault is a devastating experience that can have long-term physical and emotional effects on survivors. Unfortunately, many survivors also face disbelief and victim-blaming when they disclose their experiences to others. As a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting survivors of physical and sexual abuse, CAPSA believes employers play a crucial role in creating a culture of support and believing survivors.  

The Importance of Believing Survivors 

One of the most damaging experiences for survivors of sexual assault is not being believed. When survivors are believed and supported, it can help them begin healing and move forward with their lives. 

When survivors courageously share their experiences, it takes immense bravery and vulnerability. By believing them, we create a safe and supportive environment that validates their pain and their truth. This validation can be transformative, helping survivors overcome the self-doubt and shame that often accompany their experiences. 

Moreover, when we believe survivors, we reinforce a culture that rejects victim-blaming and shatters the walls of silence and stigma surrounding these deeply sensitive issues. This cultural shift opens the door for survivors to seek the support they need, whether it be from friends, family, or professional resources like organizations such as CAPSA.  

Ultimately, by believing survivors, we stand together in solidarity, providing a collective voice that demands justice, empathy, and compassion. It is through this collective effort that we can break the cycle of violence and create a society that prioritizes the safety and well-being of all individuals, free from the devastating impact of domestic violence and sexual assault. 

How Employers Can Support Survivors 

Employers can play a crucial role in creating a culture of support and believing survivors. Here are some ways that employers can support survivors of sexual assault in the workplace: 

  • Provide Time Off: Survivors of sexual assault may need time off to attend counseling or legal appointments, and employers should be willing to provide this time off without penalty. Additionally, survivors may need time off to deal with the physical and emotional effects of their experience, and employers should provide this time off as well. 
  • Create a Safe and Supportive Work Environment: Employers should create a work environment that is safe and supportive for survivors. This can include providing a private space for survivors to make phone calls or take time off for appointments related to sexual assault.  
  • Train Employees: Employers can also provide training to all employees on how to recognize and respond to sexual assault in the workplace. CAPSA’s Community Engagement department specializes in providing this training and can be contacted for scheduling at 435-753-2500. 
  • Implement Sexual Assault Policies: Employers should have policies in place that address sexual assault in the workplace. These policies should include a clear reporting process as well as support and resources for survivors. 

Here to Help 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

You Are Not Alone: How CAPSA’s Support Groups Create Peer-Based Support

As a survivor of physical or sexual abuse, it can feel like you are alone and isolated in your experiences. However, at CAPSA, we know that survivors can benefit greatly from connecting with others who have shared similar experiences. That’s why we offer groups, which provide a safe environment for survivors to connect with one another and receive peer-based support. CAPSA offers support, educational, and therapy groups for victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. Groups create a safe place to learn, process, and heal while developing a peer-based support network.

What are Support Groups? 

Support groups are a form of therapy that involves connecting with others who have experienced similar traumatic events. The purpose of a support group is to provide a safe environment where survivors can share their experiences, feelings, and concerns with others who understand and empathize with what they are going through. 

At CAPSA, we offer several different groups for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. These groups are facilitated by trained professionals who are knowledgeable about the unique needs of survivors. We also offer groups for specific populations, such as LGBTQ+ survivors or Spanish-speaking survivors, to ensure that everyone can receive the resources they need. 

After one of CAPSA’s most recent support groups, one participant reported feeling more validated after participating in the group. She described feeling she is no longer alone. She stated that she usually feels a need for “a lot of words of affirmation,” so hearing the other disclosures in the group affirmed her experiences. Another participant reported leaving the group experience with validation, knowing that what she experienced was real and was abuse, and another participant said she gained confidence in assessing future relationships for red flags because of her participation in the group.

Benefits of Support Groups 

  • Peer-Based Support: Support groups offer survivors the opportunity to connect with others who have shared similar experiences. This peer-based support can be incredibly validating and healing, as survivors no longer feel like they are alone in their experiences.
  • Validation: Survivors often struggle with feelings of shame, guilt, and self-blame after experiencing abuse. Being part of a support group can help survivors validate their experiences and understand that the abuse was not their fault.
  • Increased Self-Esteem: Support groups can help survivors feel more confident and empowered. As they connect with others who have shared similar experiences, survivors may feel more comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings, which can help boost their self-esteem.
  • Coping Skills: Support groups can provide survivors with practical coping skills and strategies to help them manage their symptoms and emotions. By learning from others who have gone through similar experiences, survivors can develop new ways of coping with their trauma.
  • Community: Support groups can help survivors build a sense of community and belonging. By connecting with others who understand and empathize with their experiences, survivors can feel less isolated and more supported.

“Working with groups means longer, harder hours, but I love it, so I keep volunteering to help with them,” said Stefani Taylor, a therapist in CAPSA’s clinical department. “My favorite thing about the Hope & Healing group for survivors of sexual assault is the growth of the group members. Typically, everyone is quiet when we start. The first day is a lot of facilitators talking, asking questions, and building rapport. But over a few sessions, members start to open up, share, and support each other. Bonds form and friendships begin in H&H. People who I never thought would say a word become some of the most frequent participants and some of the friendliest supporters of other group members. I can’t express how much I love watching people become comfortable with the group and close with each other. It is a bond I’ve never seen anywhere else, a really important, close, unspoken bond.”

Here to Help

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of each individual who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA.