MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A research clinic at the University of Memphis is trying to reach and help more women in the Mid-South who have experienced intimate partner violence.
“Intimate partner violence and abuse leaves some emotional aftermath, and education, I think, is the first step,” said Trauma Researcher Dr. Gayle Beck.
Beck has been running the Athena Project in Memphis since 2009.
However, a renewed push in the community might bring more survivors of intimate partner, or domestic, violence to her office for help.
WREG called Beck after hearing an ad for the Athena Project on the radio.
“Offered by the Department of Psychology, the Athena Project is a free and private service,” the ad said.
Beck told WREG the ad is running several times in March.
“Seeking help is really difficult, and so anything, any means that we can come up with to reach women. Help is available,” she said.
The Athena Project helps women and compiles research about intimate partner violence at the same time.
Women undergo psychological evaluations and meet with staff to learn about what is going on.
Some enter the Athena Project’s treatment program for women experiencing PTSD. Others could receive referrals to get help elsewhere.
The Athena Project is named after the goddess, because the clinic aims to help women regain their strength.
Doctoral students assist with the effort.
Through research, Beck’s office learned that about half of the survivors they have helped have also experienced abuse as children.
Beck said she has gotten calls from some women since the radio ads have been running.
In a written exercise, one survivor said, “I like the strategies. I plan to implement them all on a daily basis. I want to become a better ME.”
For more information about the Athena Project, visit this website or call 901-678-3973.