What is an advocate?
In Minnesota, a sexual assault advocate is a trained professional or volunteer who provides compassionate support and advocacy to individuals who have experienced sexual violence. Supervised by rape crisis centers, these advocates offer emotional support, information about available resources and legal options, accompany survivors to medical and legal appointments, and empower them to make informed decisions about their healing journey.
Sexual Violence Center Advocates are specially trained to help you in navigating sexual violence. We provide support through our crisis lines and counseling services, and help in navigating the medical and legal processes. Calling us is completely confidential–call us at (612) 871-5111 anytime.
Calling the hotline is a confidential way to get immediate support and begin your journey towards healing and recovery.
612-871-5111
24-Hour Support Line
The Sexual Violence Center Crisis Hotline operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, providing immediate and confidential counseling support to individuals in crisis.
Here’s how an advocate can support you when you call the hotline:
- Immediate Crisis Support: Advocates are trained to offer compassionate support and active listening during times of crisis, helping you navigate overwhelming emotions and situations.
- Exploring Your Options: They can discuss and clarify your options, whether you’re considering reporting to law enforcement, seeking medical attention, or accessing other support services.
- Connecting to SVC Services: Advocates can link you directly to services offered by the Sexual Violence Center, such as counseling, support groups, and legal advocacy, tailored to your needs.
- Referrals to Community Resources: They can provide information and referrals to other community resources, such as shelters, legal aid, medical professionals, and social services, ensuring you have access to comprehensive support.
Our free counseling services provide personalized support to individuals who have experienced sexual violence. You can meet with one of our advocates for up to ten sessions, at no cost. If you need longer-term counseling, we can connect you with trusted therapists in our network. Our counseling is peer-based, offering support that is not therapeutic or clinical. Sessions are available in-person, virtually, or over the phone.
At this time these services are offered by appointment only. To schedule an appointment call 612-871-5111 or visit the link below.
Note for virtual counseling:
We use Doxy.me to meet virtually for counseling. You can use your computer, tablet, or mobile phone to meet with us over video, phone, or by using the room’s text chat function. You do not need to create an account to use Doxy. You will receive a link to the meeting room in the confirmation email when booking your appointment.
Medical Advocacy
If you go to a hospital, a medical advocate may be available to support you through your forensic exam and evidence collection. Our advocates respond 24/7 to 10 hospitals across Carver, Hennepin, and Scott Counties. Here’s how advocates can help:
- Provide emotional support in the hospital room and stay with you during your visit.
- Explain procedures such as forensic evidence collection (rape kits) and ensure you understand your rights and options.
- Advocate for your needs with hospital staff.
- Facilitate conversations with your family or friends on how best to support you.
- Connect you with follow-up resources for ongoing support and care.
Following an assault, many victims and survivors choose to engage with the legal system for various reasons. Navigating this process can be stressful, overwhelming, confusing, and potentially re-traumatizing. At SVC, we are here to help! Our advocates offer compassionate support and guidance throughout several key steps, including:
- Reporting an assault to the police
- Filing temporary and harassment restraining orders or orders for protection
- Attending law enforcement interviews
- Accompanying you to court dates and hearings
Please note, while we do not have lawyers on staff and cannot provide legal advice, we are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.
We can also help you file a claim for Crime Victims Reparations, and learn more about financial help.
Hennepin County Legal Referrals
We will refer income-qualifying victim survivors in Hennepin County to Mid-Minnestoa Legal AID and Central Minnesota Legal Services for access to legal advice and representation for a range of legal issues including sexual assault, stalking, trafficking, and more.
Our legal advocacy services include supporting victim survivors in filing a report, through interviews, and filing for restraining or harassment orders.
Carver and Scott County Legal Referrals
Our advocates refer income-qualifying victim survivors in Carver or Scott counties with legal advice and representation for a range of legal issues including sexual assault, stalking, trafficking, and more to Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services (SMRLS).
To learn more about legal advocacy, or to seek a referral for legal representation, please call us during business hours at (612) 871-5111.