Report from the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Center: The Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center purchased a larger building just under two years ago to expand its capacity to provide innovative and quality victim services. One of the leading reasons for moving was to have ample space to fulfill a long-term dream of the center’s – an onsite Sexual Assault Forensic Examination Room which provides a safe, comfortable and welcoming space to victims seeking Forensic Exams (also known as Rape Kits) after a sexual assault.
“The Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Center is dedicated to expanding options and improving outcomes for those who have experienced sexual assault"
“The Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Center is dedicated to expanding options and improving outcomes for those who have experienced sexual assault; having a choice in where to have an exam is a critical step,” said Shelly Wright, Sexual Assault Therapist & Clinical Supervisor with the Center. “We are thrilled to be expanding our Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE) service as an alternative to Hospital Emergency Department assistance following an assault. We have increased our nurse force for expanded coverage outside of business hours. Additionally, we have hired more counselors to ensure that survivors mental health needs are being met during crisis and throughout recovery.”
In the DVSA Center SAFE Room, exams are done on site by specially trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners, and Victim Advocates are available throughout the process. This non-hospital, trauma informed option creates a supportive and peaceful environment for the survivor.
Sexual assault is a serious and widespread problem; one in four girls and one in six boys will be victims of sexual abuse before the age of 18. Additionally, one in five women, and one in 33 men have experienced rape or attempted rape at some time in their lives.
“We know how critical the initial response to a victim is in their trauma recovery"
“The mental and physical health consequences of sexual assault can be devastating and long lasting,” said Kara Mischke, Community Relations Manager. “We know how critical the initial response to a victim is in their trauma recovery, which is why having the choice of where to have the exam is an important first step in putting control of their circumstances back in the hands of the survivor.”
Wright concluded with a final impactful statement, “At the Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center, we want survivors of sexual assault to know that what happened to you does not define you. Shame and embarrassment are not your burden to bear. We care and are here to help you begin your healing journey.”
The SAFE Room service is provided at the Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center’s public office at 1423 Kensington Square Ct. in Murfreesboro. DVSA Center currently provides a variety of free healing and protective services out of its public office, such as court advocacy and counseling. The center also takes 24-hour crisis calls and has a separate confidential safe shelter.
“The Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Center is dedicated to expanding options and improving outcomes for those who have experienced sexual assault"
“The Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Center is dedicated to expanding options and improving outcomes for those who have experienced sexual assault; having a choice in where to have an exam is a critical step,” said Shelly Wright, Sexual Assault Therapist & Clinical Supervisor with the Center. “We are thrilled to be expanding our Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE) service as an alternative to Hospital Emergency Department assistance following an assault. We have increased our nurse force for expanded coverage outside of business hours. Additionally, we have hired more counselors to ensure that survivors mental health needs are being met during crisis and throughout recovery.”
In the DVSA Center SAFE Room, exams are done on site by specially trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners, and Victim Advocates are available throughout the process. This non-hospital, trauma informed option creates a supportive and peaceful environment for the survivor.
“We know how critical the initial response to a victim is in their trauma recovery"
“The mental and physical health consequences of sexual assault can be devastating and long lasting,” said Kara Mischke, Community Relations Manager. “We know how critical the initial response to a victim is in their trauma recovery, which is why having the choice of where to have the exam is an important first step in putting control of their circumstances back in the hands of the survivor.”
Wright concluded with a final impactful statement, “At the Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center, we want survivors of sexual assault to know that what happened to you does not define you. Shame and embarrassment are not your burden to bear. We care and are here to help you begin your healing journey.”
The SAFE Room service is provided at the Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center’s public office at 1423 Kensington Square Ct. in Murfreesboro. DVSA Center currently provides a variety of free healing and protective services out of its public office, such as court advocacy and counseling. The center also takes 24-hour crisis calls and has a separate confidential safe shelter.
