SARA – Sexual Assault Response & Awareness (Roanoke, VA)
About SARA
SARA (Sexual Assault Response and Awareness) is the Roanoke Valley’s comprehensive sexual violence crisis center, providing 24-hour crisis support, free confidential counseling, advocacy, and educational programming for survivors of sexual assault and their loved ones. SARA’s licensed counselors and trained advocates deliver trauma-informed care to help survivors heal from the effects of sexual violence in a safe, supportive environment.
What Groups Are Offered?
SARA offers therapeutic support groups for adult survivors of sexual assault, trauma processing groups, psychoeducational workshops on healing from sexual violence, and individual counseling. Groups are facilitated by licensed clinicians with specialized training in trauma and sexual violence recovery. Prevention education and community awareness programs are also offered to schools, workplaces, and community organizations throughout the Roanoke Valley.
Who Can Join?
Services are available to any survivor of sexual assault, sexual abuse, or sexual harassment in the Roanoke Valley and surrounding areas, regardless of when the assault occurred. Services are provided regardless of gender, age, sexual orientation, or whether the survivor reported the crime to law enforcement. Friends and family members of survivors can also access support and counseling.
Meeting Schedule & Location
Support groups and counseling are available at SARA’s Roanoke office on regular schedules. The 24-hour crisis hotline is always available. Virtual counseling options may be available. Contact SARA for current group offerings and scheduling.
Contact Information
- 24-Hour Hotline: (540) 981-9352
- Office: (540) 345-7273
- Website: sararoanoke.org
- Location: Roanoke, VA
What to Expect
SARA provides compassionate, trauma-informed care in a safe and confidential environment. When you contact SARA, an advocate will listen without judgment, explain your options, and help connect you with services that fit your needs. Support groups are led by licensed professionals who understand the unique dynamics of sexual trauma recovery. All services are voluntary and survivor-directed.
Cost & Confidentiality
All SARA services, including counseling, support groups, and crisis intervention, are provided free of charge. Strict confidentiality is maintained in accordance with Virginia law. SARA does not share client information with law enforcement or other agencies without the survivor’s explicit consent.