Individual and group counseling for survivors and family members-as well as other support services-are provided free of charge by experienced professional Orthodox clinicians (social workers, psychologists, counselors), with knowledge of Torah values, religious law, and Orthodox Jewish cultural practices. SAVI Takanot clinicians will be understanding not just of the survivor's emotional needs, but also of how the survivor's experience affects them as a member of the frum community.
Takanot maintains an ongoing relationship and consultation with Orthodox rabbanim, representatives of Yeshivot, baal habatish, modern Orthodox and Chassidic orientations. Rabbanim are available to talk to counselors and survivors upon request to address specific questions about halachic matters, as well as relevant hashkafic issues. Whether the assault or abuse was recent or a long time ago, counseling is immensely valuable. Confidentiality is a strict principle of SAVI service: no one will know that you have come for help. Takanot counseling is also available in Yiddish, Hebrew and other languages at Mount Sinai and locations throughout New York City.
New York State Crime Victims Board
Takanot assists survivors in filing compensation claims with the NYS Crime Victims Board.
Legal Advocacy
Takanot provides support and information to survivors who choose to report these crimes, as they interact with the police and criminal justice system. Assistance with the Get process is also provided.
Education and Training
Community education and professional training are available. Takanot provides workshops at colleges and seminaries, programs for yeshiva students on safety and services, and for yeshiva staff on supporting the young survivor. Education programs are tailored to the specific needs and experience of the Orthodox Jewish community.
Always Remember
Sexual assault and relationship abuse can happen to anyone regardless of their religious affiliation, whether they are male or female, young or old
Rape and abuse are often committed by someone who is trusted and respected-someone who takes advantage of and betrays that trust and respect. There are others out there you can still trust and who will help you
You are not to blame for the assault or abuse. You are not at fault for the wrongful acts of another person. There is no reason to be ashamed. Only the abuser is responsible for the acts he or she chooses to commit
Orthodox rabbinical authorities agree that the abuser cannot hide behind Torah values, as rape, sexual, physical, and emotional abuse are unequivocally wrong in the eyes of the Torah
If an assault happened a long time ago, it's not too late to heal. You can still reach out for help
You are a good person who deserves help
You are not alone. Call us
If someone hurts you, forces you to have sex, or touches you inappropriately:
Go to a safe place
Call 911 for immediate police protection and medical attention
Go to a hospital emergency department or contact a doctor you trust for medical care immediately after an assault or rape. If you go to one of the hospital emergency rooms served by our program, a SAVI Advocate will be called in to provide you with support and assistance
Tell someone you trust, such as a close family member, a rabbi, rebetzin or teacher.
Call us
Contact Information
Talk to us: (212) 423-2144
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