The City of Alexandria Sexual Assault Center is hosting an eight-week virtual support group for survivors of sexual assault beginning October 2. 

During a crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic, the risk for sexual assaults increases and may happen at higher rates. Survivors tend to have a sense of decreased capacity to reach out for help or are heavily-laden with shame, and support groups offer a safe, non-threatening setting for survivors to talk about and process their feelings with others who have experienced the same trauma. 

“Our goal is that each survivor that participates receives both practical and emotional support,” says Senior Therapist Gloria Saez.

For more information or to register, email gloria.saez@alexandriava.gov or call 703.850.9426 by September 15. All participants must schedule an intake call one week prior to the first session on October 2. Participants need to attend by the second session, after which the group will close. For dates and times, view or download a flyer about the support group.

The City’s Sexual Assault Center and Domestic Violence Program remain open during the COVID-19 outbreak. The hotlines are available 24/7, and advocates are ready to listen and help. Call 703.683.7273 for the Sexual Assault Hotline or 703.746.4911 for the Domestic Violence Hotline.  Confidential crisis support and chat online is also available at The National Sexual Assault Online Hotline.

“Our mission hasn’t changed,” says Saez. “We are here to assist people who are experiencing or have experienced violence in the short and long term.”

For more information about the Sexual Assault Center or Domestic Violence programs and resources for survivors and those who support them, visit alexandriava.gov/SexualAssault or alexandriava.gov/DomesticViolence.

For the latest information and news about resources for those in need or impacted by COVID-19, follow us on Facebook or Twitter or subscribe to the Spanish Language Text Line by texting ALEXINFOESP to 888777.