Overcoming the stigma and shame often associated with counseling is a vital part of the healing journey for survivors of domestic violence. As we close out May—Mental Health Awareness Month, we highlight our Domestic Violence Support Center (DVSC) through Lynn’s story.
When Lynn came to the DVSC in June 2024, her goals were simple but profound. Manage the stress of abuse. Learn patience. Stop feeling emotionally overwhelmed.
At the DVSC, survivors receive no-cost, confidential counseling from licensed trauma-informed counselors—no insurance required, no strings attached. It’s a safe space to unpack trauma and begin again.
In counseling, Lynn recognized her patterns—over-talking, shutting down, ending relationships fast. “If I think they’ll hurt me, I push them away first.”
With support, she’s learning to pause, breathe, and recognize what she’s feeling before reacting. She’s begun to understand herself—why she reacts the way she does and how to move toward healing.
Since separating from an abusive partner, Lynn is also working on sobriety. She now sees how alcohol clouded her judgment and deepened her pain.
“I’m dating myself now,” Lynn said. “I know what I like. I know my non-negotiables. I’m moving slowly because I deserve something healthy.”
Thanks to you, removing the financial barriers and the stigma around mental health is happening in our region for domestic abuse survivors. Your support funds the only no-cost, no insurance required counseling center for domestic abuse survivors in the DC Metro region.
*Name has been changed to protect privacy. The included photo may not picture the individuals featured in the story. The photo is of actual House of Ruth program participants.
