Victims of Crime and Trauma Survivors

I am a provider for Victim's Compensation for the State of California, which can provide up to 40+ free therapy sessions to victims of certain types of reported crimes.  Immediate family members of a victim ("derivative victims") may also be eligible for free therapy services.  Victims of assault, domestic violence, child abuse, drunk driving, robbery/burglary, or hit-and-run car accidents may qualify for psychotherapy, other concrete services (e.g. medical bills and wage compensation), and advocacy services. 

Being a victim of a crime or a trauma survivor often creates a ripple of painful disruptions psychologically, physically, and within a family system.  Many of these individuals develop Acute Stress Disorder  which may include symptoms of intense fear/helplessness/horror, emotional numbing, poor concentration/memory, and/or nightmares/flashbacks which may also cause difficulties in relationships or work.   Others may go on to develop  Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, which can result in a higher level of suffering and significantly interfere with functioning.

It can be helpful to seek psychotherapy after  surviving a crime or trauma in order to help you to quickly reestablish a healthy equilibrium to your life.  I have extensive experience in working with victims of crime and those who have sustained other types of trauma.  My experiential base spans settings from the Emergency Room, inpatient rehabilitation settings, to the office/outpatient environment.  I am able to incorporate EMDR Therapy, as appropriate, into my work with clients to achieve a reduction in distressing symptoms more quickly than "talking therapy" or CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) alone.  I am an EMDR Certified Therapist.  **Be pro-active in taking care of your mental health!

You may inquire as to whether you are eligible for the California Victim's Compensation Program by contacting your local office: 

Santa Clara Cou nty - SVCCJ
Telephone #: (408) 295-2656
Website address: www.victim.org

San Mateo County District Attorney
Telephone #: (650) 599-7479

Alameda County District Attorney
Telephone #: (510) 272-6180

Santa Cruz County District Attorney
Telephone #: (831) 454-2010
Website address: www.co.santa-cruz.ca.us