The Intersection Of Domestic Violence And Sexual Assault

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, which means there’s no better time to educate our community about the impact sexual assault can have. At Stepping Stone Shelter, we support survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. As we discuss this issue, it’s important to recognize its nuances. One of these complexities is the […]
What Is Sexual Assault? Understanding Consent and Coercion

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This month, we highlight the work we do every day: supporting survivors, creating safe spaces, and helping individuals rebuild a sense of autonomy and dignity. This month is an opportunity to broaden the community’s understanding of sexual assault, consent, coercion, trauma, and how to support survivors. We are using […]
Coercive Control: Understanding Psychological Abuse

When most people think of abuse in relationships, they often think of physical violence. However, abuse isn’t always visible. Many survivors experience coercive control, a pattern of psychological manipulation and pressure used to control another person. This can include intimidation, isolation, emotional manipulation, threats, guilt, love bombing, or pressuring someone into sexual activity. For teens […]