RESPONDING TO SEXUAL ASSAULT

Counseling

24-hour Hotline: Trained advocates are always available to provide confidential counseling and information over the phone.

In-Person: Survivors may receive in-person crisis counseling at our office, without an appointment.  Walk-in hours are Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. We also offer long-term counseling and group counseling for survivors who have already begun healing and are interested in further exploring their feelings and relationships, or the impact of sexual violence on their lives.

Advocacy & Accompaniment

STESA advocates are available to help a survivor navigate their medical and legal options. In conjunction with our local partners, STESA can help a survivor:

  • Receive medical attention related to an assault
  • Make a police report
  • Obtain an Emergency Protective Order
  • Assess for emergency services
  • Apply for a U-Visa or T-Visa, if appropriate
  • Receive referrals for other services such as: shelter, food and/or transportation
CONTACT

PREVENTING SEXUAL ASSAULT

Education

Prevention Presentations
Request a free presentation for your group!

Community Events
STESA is committed to engaging with our community. You will find us represented at a variety of events across southern Santa Barbara County, including health fairs, rallies, festivals, and more! Our purpose is to raise awareness of sexual assault and inform local residents about the resources available to them. Show your support by attending one of our upcoming events!

Raise the Bar

Raise the Bar is a five-year community mobilization initiative active between February 2024 and January 2029 where we are working to address the connection between alcohol overconsumption and sexual assault. Using the Close to Home community mobilization model, Raise the Bar staff, stakeholders and community volunteers will conduct educational workshops, community forums, and awareness campaigns in collaboration with Santa Barbara and Isla Vista residents, local businesses and community organizations. The goal is to Raise the Bar on public policy to support prevention efforts by providing bystander intervention and education about the direct correlation between the overconsumption of alcohol and Sexual Assault to our wonderful community.

Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Every April, in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), STESA implements a campaign that targets a specific issue relating to sexual assault in our community. Previous campaigns include bystander intervention training for local bars demonstrating community support for survivors, and combatting the myth that clothing invites assault. Passionate about educating your community? Get involved in planning our next campaign!

Self-Defense Workshops
Our 4-hour workshop teaches awareness, assertiveness, and physical self-defense techniques. Tailored workshops are available for teens, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Sign up for one of our upcoming classes or request a private session for your group!

Sexual Harassment Prevention Training

In a company of five or more employees or independent contractors, all supervisors and managers must receive two hours and employees one hour of instruction in the prevention of sexual harassment every two years.

STESA provides an interactive, two-hour training the meets California’s sexual harassment prevention standards.  We offer training in English or Spanish.  Contact us for more information!

CONTACT US

A Note on Confidentiality:

STESA takes confidentiality very seriously. Often, it is our commitment to confidentiality that gives survivors, their family members and their friends permission to seek services from STESA. Clients have the right to have their identities, histories, and experiences protected.  Personal information about our clients will only be disclosed to another individual or organization after obtaining written consent from the client. However, it is important to note that all STESA advocates are mandated reporters. We are legally obligated to contact Child Welfare Services or Adult Protective Services if a case involves the abuse of a child (under 18) or elder (over 65). Clients are not required to disclose their age or any identifying information over our hotline.