It seems so simple, just reach out to someone who can help.
The difficult thing is reaching out when you feel so alone!
Alone – is how many, who have suffered abuse at the hands of
someone who claims to love them, feel.
Alone – because they have been told that no one will believe them.
That what happened is their fault.
That no one cares. No one can help them.
You may even feel this way.
You need to know this is simply NOT true. The abuser is a LIAR!
You are NOT ALONE.
We are here for you! We believe you! We can help you!
But who are “we”?
“We” are Advocates!
By definition, an Advocate is:
a person who speaks or writes in support or defense of a person, cause, etc. (usually followed by of):
an advocate of domestic violence.
a person who pleads for or in behalf of another; intercessor.
a person who pleads the cause of another in a court of law.
Reaching out to speak to an advocate isn’t always easy. But doing so can help in ways you may never imagine.
So how can an advocate help you?
-
An advocate will meet you where you are, they will not expect or insist you take the journey to heal any faster than you are ready to take it.
-
All of our advocates are specially trained experts. They understand the effects that trauma has on the mind and body.
-
An advocate understands and values confidentiality! Any survivor of domestic violence and/or sexual violence can speak confidentially to an advocate without the worry that what is said will be spread all over town.
-
When speaking to an advocate you will be speaking to someone who will not judge you. Someone who will not insist that you make decisions you are not ready to make but will help you safely plan for each of your decisions.
-
An advocate can connect you with resources to help you, resources that you may not be aware of.
-
Most importantly an advocate can help you find your voice again! Abusers use power and control to make others do as they want. Often causing those who were harmed to feel as though they have lost their voice.
-
Working with an advocate will help you take back power and control over your own body and mind. Helping you find the strength to do what is best for you and your healing.
Bright Horizons provides both domestic violence and sexual assault advocacy services to victims/survivors, their children, and families.