Interpersonal Violence Services (IVS)

Interpersonal Violence Services at CAPS is a confidential and supportive resource for OSU students who have experienced interpersonal or gender-based violence. Our dedicated team offers trauma-informed, survivor-centered individual and group counseling tailored to meet the unique needs of each survivor, regardless of their identity or experiences. We understand that healing is a personal journey, and our clinicians are here to provide a safe space for you to process your thoughts and emotions, no matter where you are in that journey. In addition to counseling, we can connect you with other resources and offer guidance to faculty, staff, friends, and family who wish to support you.

If you are a survivor, you deserve to feel safe, supported, and informed about your choices. Consent is a crucial aspect of any relationship; it is the clear and voluntary agreement to engage in sexual activity, characterized by enthusiasm and mutual understanding. Consent can be withdrawn at any time and cannot be assumed based on past interactions or relationships.

Sexual and gender-based violence encompasses a range of harmful behaviors, including physical or sexual assault, harassment, stalking and various forms of abuse (verbal, emotional, financial, and reproductive). It is important to recognize that such violence cannot be excised as a misunderstanding or mistake. Examples include sexual contact when someone is unable to give clear consent, pressuring someone despite their resistance, or manipulating a partner through threats. Consent must be mutual, informed, enthusiastic, revocable, and specific.

Interpersonal and gender-based violence can affect anyone, and if you have experienced such violence, please know that we believe you. What happened is not your fault, and you are not responsible for someone else’s choices. You have the power to decide what happens next, and the IVS program at CAPS is here to support you every step of the way. Explore the resources available to you, both on and off campus, and remember that you are not alone in this journey.

Where to Get Help

On Campus

Center for Advocacy, Prevention & Education (CAPE): Call 541-737-2030 or visit their office in SEC 350 Mon-Fri 9 am-5 pm. CAPE provides support to survivors by providing information about rights and choices, resources, reporting options and referrals. They can assist with urgent needs including safety planning, medical advocacy, and providing information about reporting options.
Interpersonal Violence Services (IVS) at CAPS: Call 541-737-2131. After hours, select option 1 from the phone menu. You may also drop into our office for an urgent on-call appointment Mon-Fri 10 am - 4 pm (10 am - 3 pm during breaks & summer). IVS offers confidential and compassionate individual and group counseling for those who have experienced interpersonal or gender-based violence.
Circle of Support: a weekly support discussion group that aims to provide survivors of interpersonal & gender-based violence with a safe setting to share thoughts and feelings, connect with others, and support healing. Virtual and in-person meetings available.

Off Campus

Center Against Rape and Domestic Violence (CARDV): Call 541-754-0110 anytime. CARDV services are free and confidential. They offer crisis support, 24-hour emergency shelter, and legal advocacy for survivors of sexual and domestic violence.
Sarah's Place (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Center): Visit 1046 Sixth Ave SW, Albany, OR 97321 or call 541-812-4420. Sarah's Place is located at Samartitan General Hospital in Albany. Open 24/7, the center provides free treatment and resources to anyone who has experienced sexual assault, domestic violence or non-fatal strangulation.

Confidentiality

Except for IVS/CAPS, CAPE, and Student Health Services (SHS), Title IX legislation mandates that all OSU employees—including professors, RAs, and others—must report any knowledge of sexual misconduct to the University. While you can still utilize these resources, it’s crucial to understand how your information may be shared so you can make informed decisions.

Similarly, reports made to the police, the Office of Equal Opportunity & Access, and Student Conduct & Community Standards are not confidential.

IVS/CAPS, CAPE, and SHS are the only confidential resources on campus. They will not disclose anything you share without your written consent.

Impacts of Gender-Based Violence

Every survivor responds in their own unique way. Your personal experiences, cultural background, and the context of your life all play a significant role in shaping these reactions. It’s important to remember that all emotions, reactions, and coping styles are valid. It’s completely normal to experience a wide range of feelings—sometimes even conflicting ones—after such an experience. Common reactions can include, but are not limited to:

Anxiety and Panic: Heightened feelings of fear and worry about safety.
Depression or Sadness: Persistent feelings of hopelessness or despair.
Shame or Self-Blame: Internalizing guilt or feeling responsible for the violence.
Fear or Distrust: Struggling to trust others or feeling unsafe in familiar environments.
Flashbacks or Nightmares: Re-experiencing the trauma through intrusive memories.
Physical Health Issues: Chronic pain, gastrointestinal problems, or other health concerns.

It’s crucial to recognize that healing is a deeply personal journey, and each survivor’s path will look different.

Additional Resource: Effects of Sexual Violence

Supporting a Survivor

Supporting a survivor of interpersonal or gender-based violence requires sensitivity and care. Here are some effective ways to provide support:

Listen and Validate: Be present and non-judgmental. Affirmations like “I believe you” or “What happened wasn’t your fault” can be profoundly comforting.
Respect Their Privacy: Maintain confidentiality and never share their story without explicit consent. Trust is key to their healing.
Encourage Seeking Support: Gently suggest exploring resources tailored to their needs, but respect their readiness to take this step.
Ask How You Can Help: Offer assistance while allowing them to make their own choices, reinforcing their autonomy.
Avoid Probing Questions: Let them share what they feel comfortable discussing to create a safe and supportive space.
Be Patient: Healing takes time. Continue to offer support, even if they’re not ready to talk or seek help immediately.

Your presence and understanding can make a significant difference in a survivor’s healing journey. Remember, there are resources and support systems available to help both you and the survivor. Together, you can navigate this challenging time with compassion and care.

Additional Resources:

Our Philosophy

We Believe In:

Creating a Safe Space: Providing an environment where survivors feel heard and validated.
Unconditional Support: Offering unwavering support for survivors as they navigate their recovery choices.
Respecting Individual Journeys: Acknowledging that each survivor’s healing process is unique and should be honored.
Celebrating Diversity: Valuing the diverse backgrounds and experiences of each survivor, recognizing their individuality.

All survivors have the right to:

Be Believed: Regardless of the circumstances surrounding the assault, every survivor deserves to be believed.
Freedom from Prejudice: Survivors should not face discrimination based on race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, class, gender, age, ability, lifestyle, or experience.
Empowerment: Survivors have the right to be treated in a way that maintains their control, empowering them to identify and meet their own needs.
Access to Information: Survivors should receive clear information about their options for action and the choice to report to law enforcement.
Advocacy Support: Survivors are entitled to have an advocate present during all medical and legal procedures.
Dignity and Respect: All interactions with medical, mental health, and legal personnel should be conducted with dignity and respect.