Cincinnati VAMC recognizes Sexual Assault Awareness Month
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to supporting Veterans who experienced sexual trauma year-round. Each April during Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), VA amplifies our efforts to reach out to sexual trauma survivors of all backgrounds and genders.
We also share information about compassionate care and resources for healing at the Veterans Health Administration.
You’re Not Alone
Every VA has staff specially designated to help survivors of all types of sexual trauma access services. Here are some of the staff members locally who can help you:
Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) Assistance Program Coordinator:
Jessica Thiede, Psy.D.
513-276-1800
Intimate partner violence refers to physical, verbal, emotional or sexual abuse, as well as
stalking, between intimate partners. Veterans, their partners, and VA staff impacted by IPV can
contact the IPV Assistance Program Coordinator for help.
Military Sexual Trauma Coordinator:
Nicole Klein, LISW-S
513-861-3100 x 205960
Military sexual trauma is sexual assault or harassment that occurs during military service. MST survivors can contact the MST Coordinator to connect to VA’s free MST-related care.
Women Veteran Program Manager:
Jane Popoola, MSN, RN
513-861-3100 ext. 206890
Women Veteran Program Managers advocate for you and help you navigate VA.
Vet Centers: Local community-based Vet Centers offer free counseling and referral services for MST survivors and others. Learn more and locate the Vet Center nearest you at www.vetcenter.va.gov.
National Resources for Survivors
VA Assault and Harassment Prevention Office: Visit www.va.gov/STOP-HARASSMENT for information on care and support if you experience or witness sexual assault or harassment at a VA facility, as well as a comprehensive listing of VA and community resources for survivors.
VA IPV Assistance Program Website: If you or someone you know could be experiencing and/or using IPV, help and resources are available at www.socialwork.va.gov/IPV.
VHA Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Website: Information on VA’s MST-related services, eligibility for MST-related care and coping resources is available at www.mentalhealth.va.gov/mst.
Beyond MST App: This free, secure, and private self-help mobile app, which was created specifically to support the health and well-being of MST survivors, can be downloaded from any app store.
myPlan App: This free app available at www.myplanapp.org can help with safety decisions if you, or someone you care about, is experiencing abuse in their intimate relationship.
Women Veterans Call Center: The Women Veterans Call Center at 855-829-6636 will help you navigate the VA and connect you with the appropriate point of contact at your local VA medical center.
Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 then Press 1, text 838255 or chat online at www.veteranscrisisline.net/chat to reach one of VA’s caring, qualified responders
If you experience harassment or sexual assault at any of our VA locations, we encourage you to reach out for help and to report it. At VA, we take all reports of harassment and assault seriously, and we will investigate and take appropriate action. Please contact the VA Police, the Patient Advocate or any of your current VA providers for help.