Ask Ava

Ask Ava, Ep. 269: "When is jealousy abusive?"

You have a right to spend time with your friends, and have hobbies and activities that are important to you outside of your relationship. Join us for the last part of our series looking at non-physical forms of abuse, as special guest Jessica Fernandez talks about how jealousy can be used as an excuse to isolate and control someone. 

If you or someone you know need help, call and text our 24/7 helpline at 866-685-1122 for supportive listening, information, and connection to additional services. For more information, visit www.safe-sound.org

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Ask Ava, Ep. 268: "What does verbal abuse look like in an abusive relationship?"

Verbal abuse can be scary and have lasting impacts. Hear from special guest Jessica Fernandez about how to recognize verbal abuse in this third installment of our series looking at different types of abuse. 

If you or someone you know needs help, contact our 24/7 Call and Text Helpline at 866-685-1122. For more information, visit www.safe-sound.org

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Ask Ava, Ep. 267: "How can you recognize gaslighting?"

Gaslighting is when someone uses manipulation and lies to purposely make you question your reality and your experiences. In the second installment of a 4-part Ask Ava series exploring different types of abuse, special guest Jessica Fernandez talks about how to recognize and respond to gaslighting.

If you or someone you know needs help, you can reach out to Safe+Sound Somerset's 24/7 Call and Text Helpline at 866-685-1122. For more information, visit www.safe-sound.org.

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Ask Ava, Ep. 266: "What is financial abuse?"

Today we're launching a new 4-part Ask Ava series highlighting different types of abuse besides physical violence. In this episode, special guest Jessica Fernandez talks about the warning signs of financial abuse - when somene gains power and control over another person by manipulating their finances, employment, or education

If you or someone you know need help, you can call and text our 24/7 helpline at 866-685-1122. For more information, visit www.safe-sound.org. 

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Ask Ava, Ep. 265: "How can teens protect themselve against dating abuse when they start dating?"

Before dating, it can be helpful to identify your goals for relationship and feel confident in your right to make your own choices, set boundaries, and give or deny consent. Along with learning the red flags of abusive relationships, these may be helpful tools in building healthy, safe relationships. 

Safe+Sound Somerset's 24/7 Call and Text Helpline at 866-685-1122 can provide information, supportive listening, safety planning, and referrals. To learn more, you can visit our website at www.safe-sound.org

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Ask Ava, Ep. 264: "How can I set boundaries without being mean?"

Setting boundaries is a form of self-love; creating safety for YOU is not mean to someone else. Special guest Jessica Fernandez joins us to talk about how setting boundaries can be an act of healing and empowerment!

If you or someone you know needs help, reach out to our 24/7 Call and Text Helpline at 866-685-1122. For more information, visit www.safe-sound.org

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Ask Ava, Ep. 263: "How can I help my friend in an abusive relationship?"

It's important to show your friend you believe them and support their decisions with care and concern, not with judgement. Join us as special guest Jessica Fernandez shares how her friends helped her through a difficult time. 

To speak with an expert, call or text our 24/7 helpline at 866-685-1122. For more information, visit www.safe-sound.org

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Ask Ava, Ep. 262: "Why is it important to have men doing domestic and sexual violence prevention?"

Join us for a special conversation with Safe+Sound Somerset's Community Outreach and Community Engagement Manager, Victor Peralta, as he talks about a recent conversation with someone who was surprised to see a man doing domestic and sexual violence education. 

Domestic and sexual violence impact people regardless of gender or sexual orientation, and it will take EVERYONE working together to end abuse once and for all!

To speak with an expert, call or text our 24/7 helpline at 866-685-1122. For more information, visit www.safe-sound.org.

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Ask Ava, Ep. 262: "How can I tell my current partner about my past sexual assault?"

You deserve to be believed and to not be blamed for the sexual assault. Let your partner know how you need them to listen and support you, and give them space for their own reaction as well. Safe+Sound Somerset is here for both of you. Call and text our 24/7 helpline at 866-685-1122 for supportive listening, information, and referrals to services. For more information, visit www.safe-sound.org

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Ask Ava, Ep. 260: "What are the impacts of teen dating violence?"

Experiencing teen dating violence can have devasting impacts on individuals and whole communities. Join us as we talk about some of the effects of teen dating violence AND flip the script to talk about the positive impacts of healthy, safe relationships. 

If you or someone you know needs help, you can call and text our 24/7 helpline at 866-685-1122. For more information, visit www.safe-sound.org. 

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