Domestic Abuse Project

Overall the staff that I came in contact with were very nice. I was seeing Noreen for therapy. She knew I was experiencing active domestic abuse and she put me in a potentially dangerous situation. I was supposed to have therapy but she emailed me less than 24 hours before hand to tell me that she needed to switch it to earlier. I didn’t see it until the day of and I responded that I would not be able to do it at that time. I would be with the person who was psychologically harming me at that time so I was unavailable. She apparently didn’t get my email and she called me a little after the time she told me and I answered because I was waiting for a different call and I didn’t recognize the phone number. She started asking me why I couldn’t do therapy at that time and I was trying to be careful of that I was saying because of who I was with, but I told Noreen who I was with and tried to hint that that’s why I couldn’t do therapy. Instead of taking the hint, she started scolding me like I was a child, saying that when I can’t make it to therapy that I need to give her at least 24 hours notice (even though she didn’t do that for me) and that it was not okay and it’s a huge issue because she could have scheduled someone else. I was terrified and was crying. I never got an apology and I never got acknowledgment that she put me in danger. I ended therapy with her after that. She acted very elitist with me, disrespectful, and had no regard for my safety.

Disappointing experience. Intake went ok but they didn't know what to do with my case. I got a misplaced referral to homelessness prevention place that also didn't know how to help. The cycle of incomponent bureaucracy didn't help with my anxiety, depression, and PTSD. I imagine this place can help but only if you "qualify." But how bad does your situation have to be before you can get actual help? It's a gamble. Either they help you or consider your situation "self-resolved." What the actual.

I've experienced disassociation since my abuse ended and my brain/body felt safe. They've been incredibly accommodating to myself and my 4 children. The therapists have the most gentle nature and even their voices are soothing. My oldest came out so dang proud to beat his therapist at sorry and Uno (shout out to DENISE!) Jordan and Ciara also made myself and my children feel incredibly safe in a very calming environment. I never felt judgement at any appointment. One of my kids advocates even called CPS with me to report that my child that same day admitted to SA. She stood up for me during the call and made sure they knew it was about their father. I won't name the name on Google for her protection. I cannot be more grateful for this calming atmosphere. There are definitely moments it's difficult to get ahold of them, however I do know staffing is low and unfortunately even looking at statistics we know DV numbers are way too high. They cannot accommodate the overwhelming need 100% which isn't their fault. Despite this I recognize their efforts and sincere genuine kindness. I respect everything they do and it might of taken me months to get in finally but I know they're doing their absolute best vs the demand. Thank you DAP for making my children feel safe and will continue to with therapy in a calm environment! We appreciate you so much ❤️