Support survivors escaping domestic violence

Raphael House’s new Domestic Violence Recovery Mentor program is a survivor-led, peer support approach that is the first of its kind in Portland and serves survivors throughout Multnomah County who identify as having addiction issues.

We believe that everyone deserves to live a life free from abuse and addiction, and we understand that the relationship between substance abuse and domestic violence is intersectional. Trauma can lead to drug and alcohol use as a coping mechanism, to numb the pain of abuse. And abusers can use a survivor’s addiction and attempts at recovery as a means of control. 

At Raphael House, our focus is on helping all survivors transition from violence and into safety. We recognize that for those struggling with addiction, the recovery process is a vital component of rebuilding their lives.

That is why our two Recovery Mentors bring experience both in recovery and as domestic violence survivors themselves. In this role, they’re uniquely able to help program participants in relation to addiction and connecting with services, as well as safety planning and recovery from trauma. 

“In this role, I can truly meet each person where they’re at in regards to recovery. Whether that means going to a meeting together, looking at treatment options, connecting them with a health care provider, or even exploring self care tools like mindfulness and yoga, I’m here to help survivors feel supported and be successful in achieving their goals.” - Tiffany, Recovery Mentor