Douglasdale Victim Support (DVS) is a volunteer counselling group based at the Douglasdale Police Station in Douglasdale, Johannesburg.The group started with just one caring counsellor in 2007 and has since grown to eight dedicated counsellors.
The trauma counsellors provide basic emotional support to anyone who has been a victim of crime, by helping them to learn how to cope and deal with the effects and nature of their trauma. Being a victim of crime can have a terribly debilitating effect on one and if left unchecked may lead to long-term symptoms such as depression, mistrust, anger and low self esteem. People often also struggle with feelings of hopelessness, loss of power and anxiety around their immediate safety. Timely intervention in the form of trauma counselling can make a huge difference when trying to come to terms with what has happened and acquire the necessary coping mechanisms to pull through such an event.
The types of incidents we provide trauma counselling for includes, but is not limited to, rape, hijacking, armed robbery and domestic violence. We will also assist as much as possible with referrals to the correct organisations to assist any individual should their need lie outside the scope of short-term trauma counseling.
The DVS trauma counsellors operate on a shift basis so that we are able to provide this service for walk-ins from the general public seven days a week, 24hrs a day by appointment.
Should you require trauma counselling, call our dedicated trauma line on 078 850 2341.
As a volunteer group, we to rely on funding and at times have had to rely solely on the generosity of fellow volunteers, who so freely give of their time and expertise.
There are many such Volunteer Victim Support Units found at Police Stations all over the country. Please don’t hesitate to contact one closest to you if you wish to assist those who assist others, or need support.
We urge you to share this information with those around you, to make them aware of this valuable service that is available to them following a traumatic situation.