Standing With Survivors, Always: Understanding the Deep Connection Between Domestic Violence and Trafficking

As Domestic Violence Awareness Month comes to an end, we recognize a critical truth for our SafeHouse clients: Almost all report experiences of domestic violence or sexual assault in addition to exploitation and trafficking.

Recently, SafeHouse’s Chief Program Officer, Kristen Moore, MFT, had the opportunity to speak with Calvary Presbyterian SF’s adult Education class about this overlap. Here is what she said: 

“For our clients sexual exploitation and domestic violence have a really deep intertwinement. Why? Because all of these experiences are centered on unhealthy power and control. 

Even though our focus is particularly on sexual exploitation or human trafficking, almost all of our participants are also identifying as domestic violence survivors, as sexual assault survivors. So there isn’t actually a need to separate it out as much as people think. 

The way that shows up can look different across different people and situations, but the best practice for providing service to those folks is fairly the same across the board.”

What is the best practice for providing service to survivors? At SafeHouse, we provide gender-specific housing staffed with support who know the challenges faced by survivors. 

2025’s theme for DVAM is “With survivors, always.” Truly healing from these experiences is a journey, and SafeHouse is committed to standing with survivors always, on each step of the way. In most cases, this can look like providing safe housing, advocacy, counseling, case management, and a community that says: We see you. You deserve safety. You deserve support. You are not alone, and we stand with you, always.