Rape Crisis Counseling 1.0

The Rape Crisis Counseling app serves as a vital resource for survivors of sexual assault and their advocates, facilitating navigation through emergency healthcare services in the aftermath of such trauma. It also includes a comprehensive training module designed for volunteer advocates.

The app encompasses a Training for Volunteer Advocates section, which acts as an introductory guide to the information typically provided to US state-certified rape crisis counselors during their extensive 40-hour training. This training is a prerequisite for volunteering in hospital settings.

Originally developed by US rape crisis centers, leveraging decades of experience in emergency room advocacy, the training material has been thoughtfully adapted by an international coalition to ensure its applicability across various global contexts.

This section of the app addresses fundamental aspects of medical advocacy, offering an overview of treatment procedures and guidance on navigating forensic examinations—critical components for effective evidence collection for potential legal proceedings. It also discusses safety planning and strategies for assisting survivors of intimate partner violence, while incorporating essential considerations for diverse populations, including the LGBTQIA community and individuals affected by drug-facilitated sexual assault.

Additionally, the app features two tailored user pathways: an In-Hand Resource for Survivors and an In-Hand Resource for Advocates, which provide customized information suitable for utilization within health centers.

The creators of this app are acutely aware that many survivors may encounter health facilities lacking the necessary resources or protocols to deliver appropriate care or collect forensic evidence effectively. The overarching objective of the Rape Crisis Counseling app is to foster awareness and advocate for enhanced quality services for sexual assault survivors on a global scale.