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LGBTQIA+ SERVICES

DOVE’s LGBTQIA+ Program offers identity-specific counseling services which are affirming and knowledgeable about the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+  survivors of domestic or partner violence, including a support group for LGBTQIA+ survivors.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual+, trans, and queer individuals experience domestic or partner violence at rates equal to or greater than straight, cisgender individuals. Between 25%-33% of LGBTQIA+ people experience partner violence at some point in their lifetime. Transgender individuals experience especially high rates of violence, with the 2015 U.S. Transgender Survey reporting that over half (54%) of transgender respondents had experienced partner violence.

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LGBTQIA+ survivors face additional barriers in seeking services and leaving their relationship, including:

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  • Lack of focused resources for LGBTQIA+ survivors

  • Cultural myth that abuse only happens in heterosexual relationships and to cisgender people

  • Discrimination including homophobia, biphobia, and/or transphobia

  • Increased isolation due to small and insular community

  • Lack of recognition of the relationship

  • Challenges with parental and adoptive parent rights

  • Fear of being outed

All of DOVE’s services are free, confidential, and LGBTQIA+ -affirming.

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For counseling services and support groups, call 617.770.4065 ext. 300.

For legal services, call 617.770.4065 ext. 400.

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DOVE’s LGBTQIA+ Program also offers trainings and presentations for providers and community members, including:

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  • Introduction to Gender and Sexuality, and continuing education on LGBTQIA+ inclusivity

  • Partner Violence and the LGBTQIA+ Community

  • Queerly Beloved: An Introduction to Relationship Skills – a workshop series designed for school GSAs, LGBTQIA+ youth groups, and other youth-based LGBTQIA+ gathering spaces

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For LGBTQIA+ -specific trainings and workshops, contact the LGBTQIA+ Advocacy & Outreach Coordinator at 617.770.4065 ext. 305

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DOVE’s LGBTQIA+ Advocacy & Outreach Program is generously supported by the MA Office for Victim Assistance through a Victims of Crime Act of 1984 (VOCA) grant from the Office for Victims of Crime, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice.

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