N V
San Francisco, CA
I’m sharing this review after significant reflection, not out of anger, but out of concern for other survivors who may seek support here. Over the years, I repeatedly attempted to access services through SF Women Against Rape and was largely unable to do so. Post-pandemic, services appeared either unavailable or extremely limited. When support was offered, it was primarily limited to counseling, which felt inadequate given the complex realities of surviving sexual violence alongside court involvement and systemic harm. Framing violence solely as an individual emotional issue overlooks the need for advocacy, accountability, and concrete support. When I finally did receive peer support services, my experience was disappointing and ultimately harmful. While the peer counselor was superficially personable, the sessions lacked depth, understanding, and trauma-informed care. I felt dismissed rather than supported. Being labeled “bitter” while expressing frustration about ongoing harm and systemic barriers was especially hurtful and unprofessional. The interaction felt judgmental and invalidating, not aligned with what peer support should be. I left these sessions feeling more isolated, not helped. The experience raised serious concerns about training, role clarity, and whether staff are equipped to support survivors dealing with coercive control, institutional failures, and ongoing legal trauma. I’m sharing this because survivors deserve better. Even free services must be compassionate, respectful, and survivor-centered. I hope this feedback is taken seriously so future survivors are not harmed or discouraged from seeking support.
