NORTH HILLS : Victims of Sexual Assault Given Help
The Vet Center in North Hills is offering treatment programs for women veterans who were victims of sexual assault while serving in the military.
David Alcaras, director of the Vet Center, said the therapy is being offered because of increased awareness of sexual assault.
“I think that the Anita Hill case and the whole Tailhook incident has created an atmosphere for that,” Alcaras said.
Sexual assault involves unwanted touching, Alcaras said. It can cause low self-esteem, isolation and physical stress. In some cases, it can affect a victim’s ability to work.
The treatment will fall under the heading of post-traumatic stress disorder, Alcaras said, since the therapy is being administered after the victims were assaulted.
“When a traumatic event happens, usually what happens is that we keep it to ourself,” Alcaras said. “By the time we see it, it is post-traumatic stress.”
Those interested in treatment for sexual assault trauma can visit the Vet Center or call (818) 892-9227. The Vet Center, operated by the Department of Veterans Affairs, is at 16126 Lassen St.
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