Welcome to “Ask a SafeHouse Counselor,” a special feature in acknowledgement of Mental Health Awareness Month in May. We’re honored to introduce you to our compassionate counselors, Madi Arnett and LaTaisha Rollins, who provide invaluable support to survivors of domestic and sexual violence. At SafeHouse, we understand the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by survivors and providing comprehensive mental health services tailored to their needs. Madi specializes in domestic violence counseling, offering guidance and support to those navigating the complexities of abusive relationships. LaTaisha, our Sexual Assault Counselor, brings her expertise and understanding to survivors of sexual assault. Madi and LaTaisha graciously agreed to answer some frequently asked questions about SafeHouse and about seeking counseling in general.
SEEKING SERVICES AT SAFEHOUSE
WHAT MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES DOES SAFEHOUSE PROVIDE?
SafeHouse employs three mental health counselors (Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Shelter Counselors) to ensure clients receive adequate care no matter their primary reason for seeking services. We offer no-cost individual and group counseling. Clients are typically seen on a weekly or bi-weekly basis either in-person or virtually. We know domestic and sexual violence doesn’t just impact the victim which is why we extend the availability of counseling to secondary survivors, such as family members or children (14 years or older). SafeHouse can also make referrals for psychiatric medication evaluations as needed (Madi).
WHO CAN SAFEHOUSE SERVE WHEN IT COMES TO MENTAL HEALTH?
SafeHouse mainly serves those in Coosa, Clay, and Shelby counties who have experienced domestic violence and/or sexual assault. We also serve Chilton County survivors for sexual assault. SafeHouse serves both male and female survivors and does not discriminate based on race or ethnicity. SafeHouse also has access to interpreters if needed (LaTaisha).
WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR GETTING MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES THROUGH SAFEHOUSE? WHAT CAN I EXPECT AT MY FIRST APPOINTMENT?
The first step in getting counseling services through SafeHouse is making the call. This is often the most difficult step to take so we try to streamline the process as much as possible. When you’re ready, you can call our hotline at 205-669-7233, and they will connect you with the counselor most appropriate for your needs.
The first appointment is what we refer to as the intake session. You are able to complete the intake documents electronically prior to your first appointment which allows us to utilize our time together to focus on gathering an overview of what brings you to counseling. Counseling is a collaborative relationship, so the counselor will work with you to determine what you hope to get out of counseling and how we can work together to get you there. If you have case management needs (housing needs, job skills, rent deposits & utility bills, etc.) we will connect you with our case manager as well (Madi).
AM I ABLE TO DISCUSS ISSUES BEYOND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT AT MY APPOINTMENTS?
Absolutely! Counseling is a holistic practice and SafeHouse counselors recognize that survivors may need to discuss other issues or aspects of their lives. Survivors are encouraged to talk about anything they need to (LaTaisha).
ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS AND ADVICE
IN YOUR OPINION, HOW CAN SOMEONE KNOW IF THEY NEED COUNSELING?
Individuals are encouraged to seek counseling when an issue bothers them and impacts their ability to function. These issues can range in severity. In some individuals, symptoms from depression (sleeping a lot, not eating or eating too much, lack of energy, etc.) or anxiety (worrying too much, inability to relax, feeling afraid, etc.) may help an individual know when it is time to seek help (LaTaisha).
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE WHO NEEDS SUPPORT BUT IS HESITANT TO SEEK HELP?
Reaching out is often the most difficult step. For many, this comes with acceptance that the trauma is impacting their life more than they initially thought. It can be difficult to reach out for help but we are here to provide you with unconditional acceptance and support. You don’t have to walk through this journey alone (Madi).
WHEN DO YOU BELIEVE SOMEONE SHOULD SEEK TREATMENT? IS THERE A “RIGHT” TIME?
There is no right time to seek counseling. Counseling issues can range in severity. But if there is something that is impacting your life and causing you trouble, or if you need help to process something, it is a good idea to seek counseling. Counseling should be sought out when the survivor is ready. The survivor may not get the full benefits of counseling if they are not ready to face their issues (LaTaisha).
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A FRIEND/FAMILY MEMBER WHO IS SUPPORTING SOMEONE STRUGGLING WITH MENTAL HEALTH?
Check in on them. Listen to them. Believe them. The effect of trauma is not one size fits all so it can present differently for each survivor. When a friend or family member confides in you, let them share as much or as little as they want to with you. Practice active listening so you understand what they are saying and respond without judgement. Provide reassurance that you care and are there for them. Lastly, encourage them to seek help. While social support is greatly beneficial to those struggling with their mental health, professional care is needed in order to help process experiences and develop coping skills to improve daily functioning (Madi).
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BEST WAYS PEOPLE CAN SUPPORT THEIR OWN MENTAL HEALTH?
Establishing a self-care routine allows you to improve mental, physical, and emotional well-being. We often focus so much on caring for those around us and push our own needs to the side. Practicing self-care enables you to find balance and show yourself care too. Contrary to what social media portrays self-care as, it doesn’t have to be expensive or time consuming activities. Prioritizing time to get an adequate amount of sleep, taking your medication daily, and setting aside time to move your body are great forms of self-care. My current self-care routine includes embroidery, drinking enough water daily, and painting my own nails each week (Madi).
The best way is self-care. It can be a preventative to burn-out. Some things I recommend for self-care are reading, gardening, drawing/painting, aromatherapy, and just doing your favorite things (LaTaisha).
As Mental Health Awareness Month begins, remember this: seeking help is a brave step toward healing, and you are never alone on your journey. SafeHouse is here to provide compassionate support and guidance every step of the way, with counselors like Madi and LaTaisha ready to assist you. Let’s continue to break the stigma surrounding mental health, uplift survivors, and foster a community of understanding and empathy. Together, we can create a safer, healthier future for all.
For more like this, check out our Ask Us Anything Facebook live stream in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (April 2024). This recording features Executive Director Janelle Sierra, Forensic Services Director Debra Higgins, SANE-A SANE-P, and Outreach and Volunteer Coordinator Shelby Hull.
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