Domestic Violence Victim Services

Crisis Counseling
Victims of domestic violence can obtain crisis counseling at any time of day or night, either by calling the DVSAC crisis line (272-3467) or coming by the DVSAC office during business hours - 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call us for directions to the downtown office in Grass Valley. A trained crisis counselor will assess the victim's situation, help them remain calm, and go over various options with them.

Shelter and Safehousing
DVSAC provides emergency confidential shelter where necessary for victims of domestic violence and their children. A shelter stay provides an opportunity for women to be safe, to access the legal, counseling, and other resources they and their children need, and to draw up a plan for their future.

Food, Clothing and Transportation
Emergency food and clothing are always available on a 24 hour basis for domestic violence victims and their families. DVSAC will also arrange for transportation where required, either to go somewhere safe or to access necessary services.

Support Groups
Weekly support groups are available for victims of domestic violence, under the guidance of a trained facilitator. See the Groups and Classes page for groups currently offered.

Individual Counseling
DVSAC provides free individual counseling with a licensed therapist for domestic violence survivors. This counseling is by appointment only, and may continue for up to ten sessions. Referrals to individual counseling must first be made through a DVSAC crisis counselor.

Accompaniment and Advocacy
DVSAC counselors are available to accompany domestic violence victims through medical, legal and law enforcement processes. In some of these situations,. the counselor may also act as an advocate for victims, giving them the support and confidence to navigate through sometimes unfamiliar and intimidating territory.

Legal Services
Help with obtaining temporary restraining orders is available both at DVSAC and through referrals to the Nevada County Legal Assistance Office. An advocate is also available to accompany victims of domestic violence during court and mediation proceedings. For other legal help, DVSAC will make referrals to paralegals and attorneys where required, and if possible, help toward the payment of legal fees.

Children's Services
Ongoing children's individual counseling and group programs are offered for the children of domestic violence victims, both at the shelter and in the DVSAC office. These programs require an intake process with the Children's Program Specialist. Groups are held weekly after school hours, and are available for children between the ages of 3 and 12. For a schedule, see the Groups and Classes page.

Referrals and Other Services
DVSAC collaborates closely with county and private social services agencies in Nevada County to make sure its clients have access to a full range of social services that may help them in their situation. We give referrals to victims, and where necessary help with setting up appointments, transportation and accompaniment.