Crisis Intervention

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If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Our practice is not equipped for crisis intervention or emergency services. If you are a current client and need immediate help, please do not wait for a return call from us. Use one of the resources below.

• National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988. This free, confidential service is available 24/7.
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the U.S. to connect with a crisis counselor.
• The Trevor Project: Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678. This is a crisis intervention and suicide prevention service for LGBTQ young people.
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788.
• Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat online at veteranscrisisline.net.

Your safety and well-being are the top priority. Please use these resources or another emergency service if you are in crisis.

create a list of considerations for those in immediate threat in a domestic violence  situation 

For anyone facing immediate threat in a domestic violence situation, a safety plan is crucial. It is a personalized, practical plan that includes ways to remain safe while in a relationship, when preparing to leave, or after leaving.

• Call 911 if in immediate danger. This is the most important step if you are in a life-threatening situation.
• Avoid areas with potential weapons. If an argument escalates, try to move to a room that does not have access to knives, firearms, or other items that could be used to harm you. Stay out of the kitchen, bathrooms, or closets where you could be trapped.
• Have a packed bag ready. Keep a bag with essential items in a hidden, easily accessible location, or with a trusted friend or family member. This "go bag" should include:
  
  • Important documents: Identification (driver's license, passport), birth certificates, Social Security cards, medical records, and legal papers (protective orders, custody agreements).
  • Money and finances: Some cash, credit cards, and a checkbook.
  • Keys: Spare keys for your car and home.
  • Medication: Any necessary prescription medications for you or your children.
  • Clothing: A change of clothes for you and any children.
  • Charged phone: A fully charged cell phone. All phones, even without a plan, can call 911.

• Establish a support network. Identify friends, family, or neighbors you can trust and inform them of your situation. Create a code word or phrase to signal to them that you need help without alerting the abuser.
• Plan an escape route. Know how you will get out of your home safely. Practice this route and identify safe places you can go, such as a local police or fire station, a friend's house, or a domestic violence shelter.
• Protect your privacy. Be cautious with your digital footprint. Use a safe computer (e.g., at a public library or work) to research resources. Change your passwords for all online accounts and consider getting a new phone and phone number. Be aware that your abuser may have placed a tracking device on your car or phone.
• Document abuse. If it is safe to do so, take photos of any injuries and keep a record of abusive incidents, including dates, times, and a brief description. Hide these documents in a secure place.
• Legal options. Consider obtaining a protective order. Keep a copy of this order on you and with trusted individuals, such as your children's school or daycare.

For confidential support and to develop a personalized safety plan, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline. They are available 24/7 and can provide information, crisis intervention, and referrals to local resources.

• Call: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
• Text: START to 88788
• Chat: thehotline.org

If you are a member of the Native American or Alaska Native community, you can also contact the StrongHearts Native Helpline at 1-844-7NATIVE (762-8483).

Abilene, TX, USA  •  Update location