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Sexual Assault Recovery, Prevention, & Education.

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Created by: Matthew Short

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All services offered by Northwest Arkansas Rape Crisis are free of charge:24-Hour Help LineStaff and advocates provide crisis intervention and emotional support, answer questions, and provide referral information on our 24-hour toll-free hotline. Support GroupsNWA Rape Crisis offers groups for survivors, secondary survivors, and adult survivors of childhood sexual assault. Support groups provide a safe place for survivors to support each other. Please call the office for more information on our support groups.Individual AdvocacyNWA Rape Crisis staff members are available for in-person appointments, advocacy and to offer any additional support to the above services. Do not hesitate to call the office with any concerns or questions. SANE Clinic ServicesSANE services are provided free of charge to all victims, regardless of your decision to involve law enforcement. The SANE Program is staffed by registered nurses who have advanced education and instruction in medical-forensic examination and in psychological and emotional trauma. SANE nurses are available to speak to groups and organizations and may also provide expert testimony in a court of law. SANE's philosophy of nursing empowers patients to determine their plan of care.-Emotional support -physical examination and wellness check -Collection of medical-forensic evidence -Assistance with reporting the crime to police, when requested (mandatory reporting for children) -Assistance with concerns about sexually transmitted infection and pregnancy -Assistance with safety planning -Development of a medical follow-up plan Advocates from the Rape Crisis Center can also be on-hand for support and advocacy during the SANE exam.Things to know about the SANE exam:-During the exam you can expect to be examined for internal or external injuries, foreign hair samples, and semen/other bodily fluids.-If possible, bring an extra set of clothes (if you decide to have evidence collected, the police may want the clothes worn during the assault for evidence) and a friend or another supportive person.-If you think you may want to file a police report in the future, do not shower, drink, eat, douche, or change your clothes prior to an exam. These activities destroy important physical evidence that is useful should you decide to make a police report. Also, document everything you remember happening with as much detail as possible. (This can also help should you decide to take legal action).-You can choose to have forensic evidence collected without filing a police report immediately.Hospital and Law Enforcement EscortNWA Rape Crisis staff and volunteers are on-call 24 hours a day to accompany survivors to area hospitals and law enforcement agencies. Your advocate will be with you during the medical and legal process, answer your questions, and provide emotional support. Your advocate will be there for you, to respect your wishes and be sensitive to your needs. Court EscortNWA Rape Crisis staff and volunteers will accompany you to criminal justice appointments and court. At your request, we can consult with police and criminal justice personnel about your case. Please remain in contact with NWA Rape Crisis if you would like advocacy during the criminal justice process.

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Our organization is funded through several federal and state grants that support our operation and clinical staffs budgetary needs. However, as our organization seeks to educate and inform more women and men on how to stop sexual assault in our community, we increasingly rely on the support of the charitable contributions from our friends and community.

Without these gifts, our commitment to empowerment, education, and advocacy could not be made available to our growing community.

As a Donor you can help our organization make serious changes in our community.

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Our Mission...

"To provide a safe haven of healing and hope to those affected by sexual violence and to constantly work towards a safer future for all through education and awareness."

Our Organization

Northwest Arkansas Rape Crisis, Inc. is a private, nonprofit organization concerned with the problem of sexual assault in our community. The mission of NWA Rape Crisis focuses on the critical issue of sexual assault by assisting those affected, promoting community awareness and understanding, and serving as a catalyst for social change.

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Meet the staff 376730_314965338532474_100000570323615_1220280_1651364908_n.jpg

Dr. Kindi M. Stone

Dr. Stone is the head director of the North West Arkanasas Rape Crisis, Inc.She attended Oklahoma State University and gradutated with an undergrad in ...

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Ruby Johnson

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Monday - Friday:

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday & Sunday: Closed

Take exit 73 from I-540 and go East on Elm Springs Rd, we are directly across from Farm Bureau 589 White Rd, in suite A.

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More information IS IT MY FAULT?Too often survivors of sexual assault and rape fail to identify these acts as violence. Failing to name them as violence often prevents survivors from seeking the help they need to overcome the trauma of having the control over themselves and their body forcibly taken away.Healing begins when survivors are able to identify the assault or rape as a crime against them, regardless of whether the act meets legal definitions. Whenever an individual is forced to have sex or engage in sexual activity without giving consent, a crime has occurred. The act may or may not meet the legal definition of rape; however, the reactions, feelings, and need for assistance for the survivor are always present.Rape and sexual assault are about power and dominance; they are not about sex and certainly not about feelings of affection or love.Sexual Assault Legislation For more information regarding definitions, legislation, and state statutes visit the National Center for Victims of Crime website. http://www.ncvc.org/ncvc/main.aspx?dbName=DocumentViewer&DocumentID=32513Definitions: Rape: Any penetration of the female sex organ by a finger, by the male sex organ, or by any object without consent constitutes rape. Remaining silent or not objecting to the rape does not constitute consent.Criminal sodomy: Oral contact of male or female genitalia or anal penetration by any body part or object without consent of the victim. Again, being unable to object to the act does not constitute consent and generally adheres to the same situations listed above for rape.Sexual battery: Unlawful, intentional touching without the consent of the victim with the intent of arousing or satisfying the sexual desires of the offender or another. As in the case of rape, sexual battery can occur in situations where the victim does not or could not object to the touchingExcessive use of alcohol and other drugs precedes many incidents of sexual violence. Use of these substances may interfere with one's capacity to consent to or to refuse sexual activity, and taking advantage of another person's vulnerability is unacceptable. Under no circumstances does the use of alcohol or other drugs diminish personal responsibility for aggressive or other socially unacceptable behavior.Victims of sexual violence will be assisted in their efforts to seek redress to whatever extent they desire through the relevant laws of society. In addition, the university has established an administrative review process through which it may administer its own sanctions, which may be in lieu of or in addition to any legal redress.WHAT DO I DO?Making rational decisions during this time of emotional upheaval is difficult. Survivors need to weigh alternatives, and they usually will benefit from talking with gentle, informed, and trained crisis helpers. Most communities have a telephone hot line that can help survivors sort out options even if the survivor does not want to give a name or make any sort of formal or official report. Below are some resources that may be helpful in trying to figure out what to do next. WHAT IS IT THAT I AM FEELING? 1Recovering from rape is a process that begins as soon as the immediate threat has ended and the perpetrator is gone. There are many decisions to be made and many feelings to be expressed. Not all of the decisions or feelings will need to be handled at once, but rather as recovery progresses. The following are common reactions. Possible Physical Effects of Sexual AssaultPain InjuriesNausea/Vomiting Headaches Possible Emotional/Psychological Effects of Sexual AssaultShock/denial Irritability/anger Depression Social withdrawal Numbing/apathy (detachment, loss of caring) Restricted affect (reduced ability to express emotions) Nightmares/flashbacks Difficulty concentrating Diminished interest in activities or sex Loss of self-esteem Loss of security/loss of trust in others Guilt/shame/embarrassment Impaired memory Loss of appetite Suicidal ideation (thoughts of suicide and death) Substance Abuse Psychological disorders Possible Physiological Effects of Sexual AssaultHypervigilance (always being "on your guard") Insomnia Exaggerated startle response (jumpiness) Panic attacks Eating problems/disorders Self-mutilation (cutting, burning or otherwise hurting oneself) Sexual dysfunction (not being able to perform sexual acts) Hyperarousal (exaggerated feelings/responses to stimuli) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------1 This information was obtained from the National Center for Victims of CrimeWHAT IF I FEEL LIKE I JUST CANT GET OVER IT? Remember that no matter how much difficulty you're having dealing with sexual violence, it does not mean you are "going crazy." The fear and confusion will lessen with time, but the trauma may disrupt your life for a while. Survivors will likely feel anger, depression, anxiety, and perhaps have a general sense that everything is falling apart. This phase is often marked by recurring nightmares, a generalized feeling of anxiety, and flashbacks to the attack. While these feelings are disturbing, they are a normal reaction to a trauma and are part of the healing process. Often it is at this time that survivors seek assistance from trained professionals who can help to put their lives back together and recover from rape-related post-traumatic stress. Even long after a sexual assault, some reactions may be triggered by people, places or things connected, or seemingly unconnected, to the assault. These are called "triggers" and they are difficult, but common.Survivors may also have a fairly dramatic shift in feelings and sometimes in behavior very soon after the sexual assault or rape. Where once they were fearful, tearful, confused, emotionally drained, and out of control, now they may appear to be just fine. Survivors are trying to heal by gaining emotional distance from the trauma. Thus, they still need the support of family and friends regardless of how they may appear to be feeling or behaving.Loss of sexual identity may also occur. Survivors may change their clothing style, hairstyle, makeup, or anything else that will allow them to see themselves as different from the person who was attacked. Though this is a painful time, this phase suggests that the survivor is beginning to deal with the reality of the sexual assault or rape.When enough of the anger and depression is released and worked through, survivors may begin to recover from what has happened to them. They may still think and talk about what happened, but they will now understand and feel in control of their emotions. The trauma begins to play less of a major role in their life. In no way do they condone what happened but they are now able to live again. Though their lives may have changed, their feelings of self-worth and strength will reemerge. Life will probably be different, and their world view may have changed somewhat, but the survivor can feel stronger, more whole, and more in control of life again. At this point, they have not only survived but also recovered from the trauma.HOW DO I TAKE CARE OF MYSELF?The aftermath of sexual violence can be an emotional and difficult time. As a survivor, self-care is a key part of the healing process. Below is a list of ways in which a survivor can practice good self-care. Be sure to make a special effort to ensure that whatever you do to take care of yourself is done at your own pace and in agreement with your own needs. Physical self-care:Try to maintain a balanced diet and sleep cycle as much as possible; avoid overusing stimulants like caffeine, sugar, and nicotine.Use stress reduction techniques, such as exercise (jogging, aerobics, walking) or relaxation (yoga, massage, music, hot baths, prayer and/or meditation). Seek medical care, if needed Emotional self-care:Make sure that you spend time with people that are supportive. Choose when, where, and with whom to talk about the violence, and set limits by only disclosing information that feels safe for you to reveal. Allow yourself "time outs." Give yourself permission to take quiet moments to reflect, relax and rejuvenate-especially during times you feel stressed or unsafe. Consider writing or keeping a journal as a way of expressing thoughts and feelings. Find time to do activities that you enjoy.Consider talking with a counselor who is knowledgeable about rape, sexual assault, and trauma Make your self-care a priority, not something that happens (or doesnt happen!) by accident.HOW DO I HELP/SUPPORT SOMEONE WHO HAS BEEN SEXUALLY ASSAULTED?The process of recovering from a sexual assault or rape takes time. As a friend or loved one, your help during this process is essential. Survivors need a great deal of support and caring as they begin to address and survive a very frightening and violent experience. Friends and family can help by: Listening and being available.Survivors will need to talk about what happened and will probably express many feelings. Providing a safe environment in which to talk and also setting aside time for these conversations may be the most helpful thing that friends and family can do. You do not need to provide answers. Just listen.If you are not able or willing to listen, acknowledge that, then help the survivor in ways that you can. Remember that the recovery process may last for several months to years and that the need and desire to talk will vary depending on where the survivor happens to be in the recovery process Survivors may also need encouragement from loved ones to seek the assistance of a trained professional who can help the survivor to express the often painful thoughts and feelings connected to the sexual assault or rape.Believing and not Judging. Too often family and friends may fall into the trap of believing some of the rape myths -- particularly those that have to do with the victim somehow being responsible for the assault or rape. The job of family and friends is to support, to believe, and to be non-judgmental. Survivors will be dealing with their own sense of shame and guilt and should not be burdened by the ill-founded judgments of those people who are closest to them.Offering a safe place to stay or even staying with the survivor. This may seem like such a small thing, but feeling safe again may be very difficult for the survivor. Having family or friends close at hand can facilitate that sense of being safe and protected. It is important, however, not to be smothering. Allow survivors to determine where they want to stay and with whom.Recognizing that recovery takes a long time. It is important for significant people in the survivor's life to refrain from suggesting or even hinting that the survivor "should have gotten over it by now." This sort of nonsupport may further delay or interrupt the healing process.Friends and family can aid in the healing by acknowledging the feelings, by reminding the survivor that the feelings are a normal part of healing, and by emphasizing that these feelings will not last forever.Respecting the decisions that the survivor makes. Part of feeling in control includes making decisions and having those decisions be respected. Sometimes family and friends may not agree with the decisions that are being made; however, it is important that survivors be allowed to determine their own solutions to the sexual assault or rape.Being gentle, sensitive, and respectful of the survivor's wishes for closeness or affection. Do be gentle and sensitive. Survivors may want affection or they may not want to be close. If you are not sure what they want, ask before acting and recognize that what they want may change from time to time.Dealing with your own feelings. Typically family and friends have some fairly strong reactions when someone they care about has been assaulted or raped. They may feel anger, rage, guilt, confusion, blame, or numerous other strong emotions. Just as the actual survivor must express emotion, so too must friends and family.But rather than expressing this emotion to the survivor, the friend or family member should deal with these emotions with someone else. It is not fair to survivors to have to handle not only their own feelings but also those of the people they are turning to for support and assistance. In fact, this can only add to the feelings of guilt and remorse that survivors may already be feeling. In essence, it may only make healing more difficult (Hughes & Sandler, 1987)2 .Understanding the impact of the trauma on sexual interactions with your partner.Sexual Partners: A Special Relationship. Since sexual assault violates an individual in a most personal way, the intimate partner of a survivor has a special place in the healing process and will especially need to use all of the ways to help: ~Listening, being available ~Believing, not judging ~Providing safety ~Respecting the survivor's decisions ~Allowing recovery time--as long as is needed ~Respecting in a sensitive manner the survivor's wishes for affection or sexual contact ~Addressing one's own feelings of anger, rage, guilt, sadness, confusion, or blame. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------CAN MEN BE SEXAULLY ASSAULTED? What Is It? The sexual assault of a male is forcing a man or boy into sexual acts. Sexual assault may involve touching, fondling, contact between the mouth and either the victims or the abusers private parts (genital area), and putting body parts or other objects inside the victims body. Sexual assault is an act that is done to the victim or that the victim is forced to do with someone else. Every state has laws against sexual assault, whether the victim is male or female. Who Commits Male Rape? Most perpetrators of male rape (those who commit the crime) are male. But men and boys can be victimized by females, too. Some victims are hurt by strangers. But most are assaulted by someone they know: family, friends, romantic partners, acquaintances, or dates. How Do Rapists Control Victims? Rapists dont always use physical force or weapons to commit the crime. They may threaten to hurt victims or someone they care about if victims do not cooperate. They may isolate them (take them to a place where there are no other people who might help victims). Or they may give the victims alcohol or drugs so they have trouble protecting themselves. How Does Sexual Assault Affect Male Victims? Victims react to the crime in many different ways. They may not tell anyone about what happened. They may be ashamed or afraid of what people might think. Or they may blame themselves or think they should have been able to protect themselves. They may think the police might not believe them or take the assault seriously. Some male sexual assault victims are concerned because they had a physical response or arousal during the attack. This does not mean that they enjoyed what happened or wanted to be attacked. Sexual assault is forced on the victim without his consent. Some victims wonder why the rapist chose them. Both straight and gay men may fear they were targeted because the rapist thought they were gay. They may not know that sexual assault often has little to do with the sexual orientation of the rapist or the victim. Rapists may choose victims simply because they are available, without concern for sexual orientation, gender, or age.

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24 hr hotline: 800 794 4175. Office 479 927 1025. 589 White Road, Suite A Springdale, AR 72762

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