When Nicole walked through the doors of Hope Women’s Center, she was looking for answers. She had found Hope online and reached out because she needed help understanding what she had been experiencing in her marriage.
As one of our staff members sat down to talk with her, Nicole had a question.
“First, I need to know what domestic violence is.”
As they talked, Nicole began sharing her story of emotional, mental, and financial abuse. She had reached out to others for help before, but instead of feeling supported, she left questioning whether she was somehow responsible for the way she was being treated. After years of abuse, Nicole felt overwhelmed and unsure if anyone would believe her.
Our staff member shared with Nicole the different forms of domestic violence and how abuse can involve power and control. They discussed the resources available to her at Hope including safety planning, counseling, and classes that could support her as she began taking steps forward.
Then, as Nicole began her intake paperwork, she paused and asked a question.
“But you do believe me, right?”
Nicole explained that one of the hardest parts of her experience was that others didn’t believe her. To everyone else, her husband seemed like a different person than the one she saw behind closed doors. She had spent years feeling like no one understood what she was going through.
As their time together came to a close, Nicole asked our staff member again, “You truly do believe me?” Our staff member reassured Nicole once more that she believed her.
(For confidentiality, images and names do not reflect this narrative.)
After years of questioning herself and feeling unheard, Nicole finally knew someone was listening and taking her seriously. She left Hope that day knowing she had somewhere to go for help. There are still challenges ahead, but she doesn’t have to face them alone.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and at Hope, we see the lasting impact domestic violence has on women and their families. Through trauma-informed care, counseling, mentoring, and practical resources, we walk alongside women like Nicole as they begin to heal. Every woman deserves a safe place where she can be heard and reminded that she doesn’t have to face a crisis alone.
Where to Find Help and Support
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, you don’t have to face it alone. Hope Women’s Center is a safe place to find support, resources, and help making a plan to move forward.
Visit hopewomenscenter.org to find a center near you.
For free, confidential support 24/7, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 or text START to 88788.
How You Can Help Reach More Women Across Arizona
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Every woman deserves a safe place to be heard and supported. When you give, volunteer, or share Hope’s mission, you help make it possible for more women experiencing domestic violence to find the support and resources they need to begin healing.
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