Counseling, Advocacy and Support Groups
Counseling, advocacy & support group services are available to victims of domestic
violence regardless of gender, sexual orientation or gender identity.
Call the Haven House hotline at 716-884-6000 to access any of the services
outlined below.
Counseling
Victims of domestic violence often feel afraid, alone and they have no one to talk
to about what is happening to them. Haven House counselors are there to help – they
will understand. They will meet in person with individuals to explore ways in which
they can protect themselves from their abusive partner or family member. Counselors
will provide education on the dynamics of domestic violence, support to overcome
the isolation and negative effects of abuse, and empower individuals to make decisions
that are best for them and their own situation. Safety plans are developed with
each individual seeking help through Haven House. Haven House counselors will work
with individuals to identify and remove the obstacles that may be barriers to escaping
the abusive relationship, such as housing, finances and education, and will identify
other community resources that may be helpful to them. Counseling is confidential
and it is offered in safe confidential locations throughout Erie County.
Advocacy
Haven House advocates help victims through the often – overwhelming experience of
being in the Justice System. Advocates provide individual assistance with understanding
the legal options available to increase a victim’s safety, including Orders of Protection.
Advocates help clients access various court systems and can accompany them through
the multiple steps of the legal process. Advocates are available during the hours
in which most courts are in session throughout Erie County, including evenings.
Haven House staff can also provide advocacy with other agencies as needed and identify
other community resources that can be helpful.
Support Groups
Haven House support groups provide the encouragement and inspiration needed to continue
to create a new life free of violence and to deal with the concurrent frustrations.
Support groups help to overcome the isolation experienced by most victims of family
violence. Support groups meet weekly and are facilitated by Haven House counselors
– day and evening groups are available, and groups are held in urban and suburban
locations. Groups address a variety of topics such as safety, the dynamics of domestic
violence, community resources, assertiveness, self esteem, working with other professionals
such as attorneys, planning for the future, parenting child witnesses to domestic
violence, economic empowerment, etc.