Information on
Intimate Partner Violence for Adults
Everyone deserves a relationship built on respect, trust, and safety. If you are experiencing IPV, you are not alone.
JCADA provides confidential, trauma-informed support to help you navigate your situation. Whether you're ready to leave, exploring safety options, or looking for support.
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Whatever your circumstances, we are here to empower you with information, resources, and a path forward.
If you are experiencing Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), you likely have questions and concerns about your safety, your options, and your next steps. ​Below are some common needs expressed by adults experiencing IPV and resources to help you navigate your situation.
​For additional guidance from a JCADA professional, please leave a confidential voice message at 1-877-2232 or email support@jcada.org. While JCADA is not a crisis center, our dedicated team will respond within 2-4 business days to help you begin your healing journey.
However, if you are in immediate danger, please call 9-1-1.
Adult Support Center
I might be ready to leave my abusive situation. Where do I start?
If you have decided to leave the relationship, we are here to support you. While the time frame from when you decide to leave to the six months following are the most dangerous time in any abusive relationship, it can be made safer with advanced planning and support. Specifically, a quick checklist to consider before leaving may include:
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An individualized safety plan
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A pre-packed "Go Bag" for you and your kids
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A court-ordered protective order
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Cash for travel, lodging, and incidentals ​​​
How can I increase my safety?
A safety plan is a personalized, practical plan to improve your safety while experiencing abuse, preparing to leave an abusive situation, or after you leave. JCADA highly recommends that you create an individualized plan using JCADA's Safety Planning Template or by working with one of our Victim Advocates or Clinicians to help keep you safe.​​
How can I support someone I love who I think is experiencing IPV?
Watching someone you care about experience IPV can be overwhelming, and you may not know how to help. We provide guidance on how to offer support, listen without judgment, and connect them to available resources when they're ready!​
Is a Protective Order right for me?
If someone is hurting, threatening, or harassing you — or making you feel unsafe — a Protective Order may help keep them away and set legal boundaries. It’s a big decision. But you don’t have to make it alone. JCADA advocates can help you understand your options, navigate the process, and make a plan that fits your needs. Click below to learn more about the process in each jurisdiction.
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Protective Order Guide for Maryland
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Protective Order Guide for Virginia
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Protective Order Guide for Washington, DC
How do I keep myself safe online?
It is important to consider your online safety. Abusers can use technology to stalk, harass, and further perpetuate abuse. JCADA created an easy-to-follow Technology Safety Checklist to help keep your identity, accounts, and online presence safe.​​
How do I increase my child's safety?
Children are deeply impacted by Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), even if they don’t witness it directly. JCADA clinicians can help you navigate conversations, access support, and create a plan to protect their well-being. Here are some additional resources for child custody support services:
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​​Women's Law Center of Maryland
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Maryland Legal Aid
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DC Volunteers Lawyers Project
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Victim Legal Network of DC
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Legal Services of Northern VA​​​
I'm overwhelmed. What are a few coping skills?
When everything feels like too much, grounding exercises can help bring you back to the present moment and create a sense of calm. These two simple techniques are instrumental when you’re feeling anxious, triggered, or emotionally overwhelmed.
How can I keep my address private?
If you’re worried that someone might try to find you, the Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) can help. It gives you a substitute address to use on official documents — like your ID or voter registration — so your real address stays private and protected. JCADA can help you find out if you qualify and support you through the application process. Click below to learn more about the process in each jurisdiction.
You deserve to be safe. You are not alone. You have our support. Click here to learn more about our free, trauma-informed, holistic services.
