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
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Cultural myth that abuse only happens in heterosexual relationships and to cisgender people
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Discrimination including homophobia, biphobia, and/or transphobia
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Increased isolation due to small and insular community
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Lack of recognition of the relationship
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Challenges with parental and adoptive parent rights
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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
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Partner Violence and the LGBTQIA+ Community
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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.
