Domestic or sexual violence is never your fault.

CONNECT advocates and counselors are here to help survivors of domestic and sexual violence. The CONNECT team works with women and men who have experienced or are experiencing emotional, verbal, physical, sexual or other forms of abuse. Because no two experiences are alike, counselors will not tell you what you should do, but more importantly, help find what works for you at your pace. All of our services are free and confidential.

“Every time a survivor walks in the door, the amount of strength, we are in awe. We’re learning every day, and we’re learning from survivors.”
– Heather Arpin, CONNECT’s Education and Outreach Coordinator

Counselors are here to:

  • Listen to your fears and concerns with compassion and acceptance
  • Recognize your strengths following the empowerment model
  • Provide community advocacy and resource referrals
  • Safety assessment and planning
  • Provide counseling support

Domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence,  is a pattern of behaviors one uses to exert power and control over an intimate partner. 

Warning signs of domestic violence include:

  • Name-calling
  • Belittling
  • Threatening
  • Isolation
  • Manipulation of children or other loved ones
  • Extreme jealousy

Domestic and sexual violence can be difficult to talk about. You are not alone. The CONNECT team is here to listen and support you. Whether you are unsure if you are experiencing abuse in your relationship, need assistance in getting to a safe place, or are experiencing ongoing trauma from a past experience – CONNECT is here for you.

To access services, you can call the hotline to speak with a trained Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Counselor, in a time a crisis or phone our office to schedule an appointment.  Counselors will listen, support, provide options, and work with you to meet your needs.

CONNECT’s 24/7 Crisis Hotline: 508-696-SAFE (7233)
Trained Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis counselors are available 24/7 365 days a year. Whether it is a recent event, flashbacks from a previous experience, or just pressing questions regarding a situation, CONNECT assistance is available to you whenever you need it. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.

If you’re worried about your behavior and feel like you may be harming your partner, help is available to you through other service providers:

  • Partner Abuse Education Program (formerly known as Batterer’s Intervention Program) Contact Family and Community Resources, Inc. for services on Martha’s Vineyard 800-281-6498
  • Island Counseling Center – Intake 508-693-7900 x290
  • Contact CONNECT Program Director, Jennifer Neary, for referral services: 774-549-9667 x103.