You Are Not Alone: Harris County Provides Free Mental Health Services for Survivors of Domestic Violence
This October, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is joining the national call to action for Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), echoing the 2025 theme: “With Survivors, Always.” Established by the Domestic Violence Awareness Project through the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence, the campaign encourages local communities to break the silence, raise awareness, and stand in support of survivors of intimate partner violence.
For HCPH, this mission is more than a campaign—it's a commitment.
“Domestic violence is a public health issue that impacts not only individuals, but families and communities as a whole,” said Dr. Ericka Brown, Local Health Authority for Harris County Public Health. “At HCPH, we are committed to supporting survivors, raising awareness of the warning signs, and connecting people to life-saving services. No one should face violence in silence, and together, we can make a difference.”
A Community-Wide Issue
According to the CDC’s National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS), approximately 41% of women and 26% of men in the United States have experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime and reported related impacts. Many survivors report that their first experience of such violence occurred at a young age—for example, among women who experienced rape, about 40% said it first happened before age 18.
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Among high school students, recent national surveys estimate that 6–10% report experiencing physical or sexual dating violence each year. LGBTQ+ youth are at disproportionately higher risk, with research showing they experience elevated rates of dating and partner violence compared to their heterosexual peers.
Behind each statistic is a story—and in many cases, a survivor in need of safe, judgment-free support.
Free Help is Available in Harris County
To meet that need, Harris County Public Health’s Behavioral Health Services (BHS) program offers free, confidential mental health support to all Harris County residents ages 8 and older. Services include trauma-informed counseling, case management, and connections to additional community resources for those impacted by domestic violence and related challenges.
Whether you’re a survivor, a concerned friend or family member, or simply seeking tools to recognize warning signs, HCPH encourages you to reach out.
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Visit: hcphtx.org/bhs
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Call: 832-927-1335
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All services are free and confidential.
Additional Crisis Support
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or needs to speak to someone, please don’t wait.
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National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-SAFE (7233)
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Houston Area Women’s Center 24-Hour Hotline: 713-528-2121
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Montrose Center LGBT Switchboard Helpline: 713-529-3211
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In an emergency, call 911
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Stand With Survivors—This Month and Always
Throughout October and beyond, Harris County Public Health urges residents to become informed, compassionate allies in the fight to end domestic violence.
Whether through educating yourself on the warning signs, reaching out to someone in need, or helping share these vital resources, every action matters.
Stay informed about upcoming awareness events, free wellness resources, and local initiatives by following My Neighborhood News—this month and all year long.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
