Support Resources

Counseling and Consultation Service (CCS) (confidential resource)
Student Life’s CCS provides counseling and consultation to all students enrolled at Ohio State. Students’ spouses/partners who are covered by the Comprehensive Student Health Insurance are also eligible for services. CCS offers counseling and therapy to help students address personal, academic and career concerns. Both individual and group counseling are available. Their diverse staff specializes in a number of issues, including (but not limited to) substance abuse, eating disorders, sexual assault, relationship violence, international student concerns, LGBTQIA issues, and multiculturalism.
614-292-5766

Student Health Services (confidential resource)
The Wilce Student Health Center, Student Life Student Health Services (SLSHS), is a Joint Commission accredited outpatient facility providing a variety of health care services to the student population. All students enrolled at the university are eligible to use SLSHS.
614-292-4321

Housing and Residence Education
The Housing and Residence Education team provides services to the students who live in residence halls (“on-campus”). Staff assesses both initial and long-term needs. Housing staff, including Resident Advisors, Hall Directors and other full-time staff are available to assist. While there is a hearing process for non-suspendable infractions, situations which could result in a suspension are typically forwarded to Student Conduct. University Housing also provides educational programming to enhance academic studies and foster student development.
614-292-8266

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) (confidential resource)
The Ohio State EAP, available 24/7/365 for Ohio State benefits-eligible faculty, staff, and family members provides life assistance for a wide array of personal, work-related, and daily living challenges such as stress, marital/family challenges, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, legal consultation, identify theft support, financial consultation, childcare and eldercare locators, and much more. All EAP services are personalized to fit your specific need and are provided by the Ohio State University Health Plan, Inc.
800-678-6265

Student Legal Services (confidential resource)
Student Legal Services is a non-profit law office providing legal services to eligible Ohio State students, including assistance with landlord-tenant disputes, obtaining civil protection orders, and crime victims compensation.
614-247-5853

The Women’s Place

Empowerment and self-defense
Empowerment and Self-Defense is a free program provided by The Ohio State University Police Division that teaches realistic self-defense tactics and techniques.
614-292-4321

Confidential support

• SARNCO 24 hour Rape Helpline (614-267-7020). The Rape Helpline is staffed by trained volunteers who can provide information about options, provide appropriate referrals and offer emotional support. 
• SARNCO On-Campus Advocates (614-688-2518). SARNCO On-Campus Advocates provide confidential support for survivors of sexual violence, including students, faculty, staff, and visitors to the Columbus campus. The on-campus office is located at 33. W. 11^th Avenue, Room 202, Columbus, OH 43201.
• CHOICES for Victims of Domestic Violence (614-224-4663). The hotline sponsored by CHOICES is staffed by individuals with expertise on relationship abuse and also provides a direct way for those needing emergency shelter to access it.
• Buckeye Region Anti-Violence Organization (BRAVO) 866-86-BRAVO or 614-294-7867 BRAVO provides survivor advocacy and assistance regarding hate crimes, discrimination, domestic violence, and sexual assault. BRAVO is a founding member of the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP). Each year, BRAVO documents incidences of hate crimes and domestic violence along with similar agencies across the United States. Bravo website.

Asian American Community Services
The Family Support Program (FSP) is a volunteer-based program that addresses issues of violence such as: domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and hate crimes. FSP assists Asian victims and their families who suffer from any types of above violence in the community. The program supports and assists the victims by helping them to understand their options and working with them on making important decisions about the American social system including legal/court, medical and educational system. They have trained staff and volunteers who are bilingual in Cambodian, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Laotian, and Vietnamese. FSP provides necessary intervention, ensuring confidential, efficient, accurate and client-friendly services.
614-312-0337

Capital University Law School’s Family Advocacy Clinic 
The Clinic serves victims of domestic violence who do not meet eligibility criteria to receive legal aid assistance, but who are still unable to afford a private attorney. The Clinic’s partners include the Legal Aid Society, CHOICES Shelter, and the Columbus City Attorney’s Office. If students meet their criteria, they may assist with attaining a protection order.
614-236-6500

Columbus City Attorney’s Domestic Violence & Stalking Unit      
This office takes reports, investigates cases and assists with needs of victims/survivors during the court process for misdemeanor domestic violence and stalking cases. A referral may be made for those seeking a protection order. If you wish to file a criminal complaint you must appear in person at the Prosecution Resources Unit, Intake Section which is located on the 7^th floor of 375 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215.
614-645-6232

Columbus Police Department Sexual Abuse Squad
Takes reports and investigates sexual assault cases which occur off campus in the city of Columbus. Columbus police detectives may meet a victim/survivor in the emergency department of central Ohio hospitals, at the location of the crime, in the victim’s/survivor’s home (if they reside in Columbus) or at the police station located in downtown Columbus. 
614-645-4701

Columbus Urban League
Free support and education services for African American clients. The Columbus Urban League provides community education and support services for rape and sexual assault victims. They may also help victims/survivors file for Victims of Crime Compensation and offers a school based curriculum on rape and sexual assault.
614-257-6300

FirstLink 24-Hour Information & Referral Services 
A general referral resource to help address a wide range of needs (e.g. clothing, housing, food, etc.).
614-221-2255

Franklin County Prosecutor’s Office Victim Witness Assistance Unit
The Victim Witness Assistance Unit provides information regarding the practices and procedures of the criminal justice system to victims and/or witnesses. The unit assists victims, witnesses, and the Assistant Franklin County Prosecuting Attorney assigned to the cases. The Victim Witness Assistants in the Adult Criminal Division assist victims in cases where the defendant is an adult accused of certain felony crimes. These crimes include sexual assault, domestic violence, child abuse, stalking, homicide, and others.
614-462-3555

                
The Mount Carmel Crime and Trauma Assistance Program provides specialized professional assistance to victims of crime and trauma. Available to both adults and children, the program facilitates recovery through education and therapeutic intervention, with personal and empathetic opportunities for support and healing in both group and individual settings. Mt. Carmel provides free counseling services and begins their intake process by phone. 
614-234-5900

Ohio Victims of Crime Compensation Program            
This office can provide financial compensation for those who have experienced crimes and meet the requirements for the program.
877-584-2846  614-466-5610

              
A national hotline that connects callers to their nearest rape crisis line
800-656-4673

Sexual Assault Response Network of Central Ohio (SARNCO) 24-Hour Rape Helpline  

• 24-Hour Emergency Room Advocacy – Trained volunteer advocates provide emotional support, crisis intervention and community referral information to survivors of sexual violence in local hospital emergency departments. In addition, SARNCO works with Deaf Women Against Violence Everywhere to provide culturally appropriate advocacy to survivors who are Deaf in the emergency department.
•  24-Hour Rape Helpline – Trained volunteer advocates provide emotional support, crisis intervention and community referral information over the telephone to survivors of sexual violence, co-survivors, and the community. 
• Sexual Violence Prevention Program – Prevention education and outreach about sexual assault, dating violence and sexual harassment in the community. 
• Long-Term Advocacy and Recovery Resources – Long-term advocacy and support to survivors and co-survivors who need assistance working with law enforcement, navigating the criminal justice system and with links to other community services during the recovery process. Recovery books geared toward healing from sexual violence are available at no cost to survivors and co-survivors of sexual assault. Long-term advocacy services and free recovery books can be accessed through the 24-Hour Rape Helpline at 614-267-7020. SARNCO also maintains a Resource Center which has hundreds of books, journals, videos and resource materials on sexual assault and relationship violence that can be checked-out by survivors, co-survivors and members of the community.

Stalking Resource Center
1-800-FYI-CALL (M-F 8:30 AM - 8:30 PM EST)
gethelp@ncvc.org

Suicide Prevention Services 24-Hour Hotline                 
614-221-5445

VINELink
VINELink is the online version of VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday), the National Victim Notification Network. This service allows crime victims to obtain timely and reliable information about criminal cases and the custody status of offenders 24 hours a day. Some states have the ability to display this website in Spanish. Victims and other concerned citizens can also register to be notified by phone, email, text message (SMS) or TTY device when an offender's custody status changes. Users can also register through their participating state or county toll-free number.

NOTE: If a person is dealing with a stalker or intimate partner abuse/domestic violence situation, it is important to take precautions when accessing any kind of support. In some circumstances, stalkers and/or abusers may access phone or computer records. When possible, people in these situations may want to use public computers or phones to seek out information. It is also good to safeguard your information by frequently changing passwords to random, unpredictable ones. It may also be helpful to think about steps that can be taken to keep information away from a stalker or intimate partner (e.g. keeping things with a friend or getting mail at a different address).

The nature of the resources listed below is for immediate or primary support or advocacy, as well as local ongoing services. For other resources, including advocacy, informational/educational, legal, and programmatic resources, please see the Additional Resources pages.

ASHA Ray of Hope: 614-565-2918 Domestic Violence resources for the South Asian community

BRAVO: BRAVO works to eliminate violence perpetrated on the basis of sexual orientation and/or gender identification through prevention, advocacy, violence documentation and survivor services.

Catholic Social Services: 614-221-5851

Choices: for victims of domestic violence

Columbus Bar Association Find a Lawyer

Columbus Urban League: 614-257-6300 Free support and education for African American clients

Committee Against Sexual Harassment (c/o YWCA): 614-224-9121 Advice and referrals for employment issues

Domestic Violence Shelters in Ohio

Family Violence and Prevention Center

Grant Medical Center

Jewish Family Services: 614-231-1890

Legal Aid Society of Columbus: 614‐224‐8374

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233

Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence
Directory of services by county

Ohio Department of Health Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Prevention Program

Ohio Hispanic Coalition Domestic Violence 24 hour Hotline: 614-746-3534 Spanish- and English-language services for Latino(a)s/Hispanics.

Riverside Methodist Hospital

Shalom Task Force Domestic Violence Hotline: 888-883-2323 Resources for the Jewish community. Advocates available to speak Hebrew, Yiddish, Russian, Hungarian, and Spanish.

Suicide Prevention Services 24‐Hour Hotline: 614‐221‐5445

Women’s Outreach for Women: 614-242-1284 Support services for women, sensitive to needs of Latinas & lesbians experiencing intimate partner abuse.

For employees:
The Ohio Civil Rights Commission
Columbus Regional Office
Aman Mehra, Regional Director
Rhodes State Office Tower, 30 East Broad Street, 4th Floor
Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: 614-466-5928 Fax: 614-466-6250 
TTY: 614-752-2391 
crc.ohio.gov

The University strongly encourages survivors of any form of violence to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if they feel no injury was sustained. Medical providers can treat visible physical injuries, identify injuries that may not be visible, and where appropriate, also test for and treat sexually transmitted infections (STIs), test for pregnancy, and provide emergency contraception (if requested). In addition, a hospital can test for the presence of alcohol or drugs (e.g. “date rape” drugs) and perform a rape evidence collection procedure, which can help maintain legal options.

Medical services on or near Columbus campus

Student Life Student Health Services

All students enrolled at Ohio State are eligible to use the health service, regardless of health insurance coverage. Services for victims of sexual assault are provided regardless of the duration of time since the assault occurred. Sexual assault occurring within the last 96 hours is encouraged to seek care at a hospital where evidence can be collected; it does not require a victim to press charges. Student Life Student Health Services does not collect evidence, yet is a confidential resource for patients. Concerns about sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy, available resources and a plan for follow-up care will be discussed.

Location: Wilce Student Health Center

• 1875 Millikin Rd. - located between the RPAC and the main library
• Phone: 614-292-4321 or schedule on My BuckMD

OSU Wexner Medical Center (everyone)

Emergency Department is open 24 hours. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) can provide evidence collection; Sexual Violence Advocate from SARNCO will be called to provide support services if desired. Emergency contraception is provided in cases of sexual assault.

• Location: 410 W. 10th Ave., Columbus OH 43210
• Phone: 614-293-8333 (Emergency Room)

OSU Hospital East (everyone)

Emergency Department is open 24 hours. A SANE can provide evidence collection; Sexual Violence Advocate from SARNCO will be called to provide support services if desired. Emergency contraception is provided in cases of sexual assault.

• Location: 181 Taylor Ave., Columbus OH 43203
• Phone: 614-257-3414 (Emergency Room)

Columbus Free Clinic

Columbus Free Clinic is a student-run organization providing educational opportunities for professional and undergraduate volunteers and quality, culturally competent healthcare to our community.

• Location: Rardin Family Practice Building at 2231 North High St. Columbus, OH 43201.
• Phone: 614-404-8417
• Email: cfc@columbusfreeclinic.com
• Thursday Evenings from 5:45 to 10 p.m. by appointment

Asian Health Initiative Free Clinic

The Asian Health Initiative (AHI) is a free medical clinic run by Asian American Community Services. Patients are seen by a team of volunteer physicians alongside medical, pharmacy, and undergraduate students from The Ohio State University. ​

AHI specializes in caring for Asian-American and Asian immigrant patients. AHI utilizes in-person and electronic translation services and welcomes non-English speaking patients.

• Location: Rardin Family Practice Building at 2231 North High St., Columbus, OH 43201.
• Phone: (614) 216-9730
• Email: ahi@aacsohio.org
• Monday Evenings from 5:30 o 10 p.m. by appointment

Noor Community Clinic

The Noor Community Free Clinic is known as the “Muslim Clinic of Ohio (MCO).” The clinic is run by Physicians, Nurses, Medical Assistants, Medical Students, and other volunteers who see patients by appointment only. NOOR serves only uninsured and underserved patients, and doors are open to patients from all faiths and cultures

. The Noor Community Clinic is not just a place for health care but also a place for research, teaching, training, and learning for medical students.

• Location: Rardin Family Practice Building at 2231 North High St., Columbus, OH 43201
• Email: contact@noorohio.org
• Wednesday Evenings from 5 to 9 p.m. by appointment.
• To schedule an appointment:
  • Please call the clinic coordinator at (614) 516-3075 on either Monday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or Tuesday 10 a.m. -12 p.m.
  • Leave a message with your full name spelled out, phone number, date of birth, and why you would like to be seen
  • You will receive a phone call within the next few days to confirm your appointment date and time

Latino Free Clinic

The Latino Free Clinic or Clinica Latina is a Spanish-speaking community health resource.

• Location: Rardin Family Practice Building at 2231 North High St., Columbus, OH 43201.
• Email: clinica@clinicalatina.com
• Tuesdays Evenings from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. by appointment.
• Phone: 614-349-1038
• Fax: 866-281-2347

In thinking about current and long-term safety, you may want to consider developing a safety plan which could include ways to remain safe and possible ways to reduce risk of future harm. Information about safety planning can be found on the LSS CHoices For Victims of Domestic Violence website.

To connect with a confidential advocate who can help you with a safety plan and other options, you can contact the 24-hour SARNCO Crisis Line at 614-267-7020.

If you feel unsafe on campus at any time, you can call The Ohio State University Police Department. For emergencies, dial 9-1-1 or for non-emergencies, dial 614-292-2121.

Important notes about Protection Orders

A Protection Order is a temporary order intended to provide safety and protection to victims/survivors. Protection orders are granted by a judge and orders the defendant to stay away from the victim/survivor. The defendant should not enter your home or approach you at your place of work or school. If the protection order is violated it could result in additional charges and/or arrest.

Protection Order Information

For more information about protection orders, please visit the Columbus City Attorney’s website.You can also learn more here: Civil Protection Orders and Juvenile Protection Orders

Protection Orders in Franklin County

For advice about, and in certain cases representation for, filing protection orders, please contact Student Legal Services at The Ohio State University (SLS).  SLS is a non-profit law office that contracts with Ohio State to provide legal services to eligible Ohio State students. Columbus main campus students enrolled in a degree seeking program and who have not waived the SLS fee are generally eligible.  For more information or to schedule an appointment, go to Student Legal Services or call 614-247-5853. 

TYPES OF PROTECTION ORDERS THAT CAN BE ENFORCED BY THE POLICE:

• DV Temporary Protection Order (DVTPO) - requires a criminal charge
• Criminal Stalking Protection Order (CSPO) - requires criminal charge
• Civil Protection Order (CPO) - civil case does not require charges
• Civil Stalking or Sexually Oriented Offense Protection Order (SSOOPO) - civil case does not require charges
• Juvenile Protection Orders (JPO)

SAFETY PLANNING

In thinking about current and long-term safety, you may want to consider developing a safety plan which could include ways to remain safe and possible ways to reduce risk of future harm. Information about safety planning can be found at the National Domestic Violence Hotline website and in the SPARC Stalking and Harassment Assessment and Risk Profile (SHARP).

To connect with a confidential advocate who can help you with a safety plan and other options, you can contact the 24-hour SARNCO Crisis Line at 614-267-7020.

If you feel unsafe on campus at any time, you can call The Ohio State University Police Division. For emergencies, dial 9-1-1 or for non-emergencies, dial 614-292-2121.

OSUPD Sexual Assault Survivor’s Rights Guarantee

Sexual assaults, including date/acquaintance rape, are a very serious concern of the University Police. If you feel you are the survivor of a sexual assault on campus, the University Police Division will guarantee you the following:

• We will meet with you privately, at a place of your choice, to take a police incident report.
• We will not release, without your consent, your name to the public or to the press during the course of the criminal investigation.
• Our officers will not prejudge you, and you will not be blamed for what occurred.
• We will treat you and your particular case with courtesy, sensitivity, dignity, understanding and professionalism.
• If you feel more comfortable talking with a female or male officer, we will do our best to accommodate your request.
• We will assist you in arranging for any hospital treatment or other medical needs, including transportation to a local hospital with a Rape Crisis Treatment Center.
• We will assist you in privately contacting counseling services, the development of a safety plan and advising you about other available/necessary resources.
• We will fully investigate your case and will help you to achieve the best outcome. this may involve the arrest and full prosecution of the suspect responsible. You will be kept up to date on the progress of the investigation and/or prosecution.
• We will continue to be available for you to answer questions, to explain the systems and processes involved (prosecutor, court, etc.) and, if you wish, to be a listening ear.
• We consider your case seriously regardless of you or any suspect’s race, color, creed, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability or veteran status.
• If you feel you are a sexual assault survivor, call The Ohio State University Police Division at 614-292-2121 and indicate that you want to file (privately) a sexual assault report. You may call the division anytime (24/7).
• If we fail to achieve any part of the listed guarantee, the Chief of Police, 614-292-4216, will meet with you personally to address any problems/concerns. University Police want to help you make the Ohio State campus safe for its students, faculty, staff and visitors.

Reporting to Police

Ohio State encourages individuals to report incidents of crime, including hate crimes and sexual misconduct to University Police or the appropriate law enforcement agency. Timely reporting to the police is an important factor in the successful investigation and prosecution of crimes, including sexual violence crimes, and may lead to the arrest of an offender or aid in the investigation of other incidents.  If a victim/survivor wants to file an anonymous police report and obtain a police report number for future consideration, the Office of Institutional Equity and/or SARNCO advocates can assist.  Click here for more information on reporting to police.

Have questions about the reporting process? Contact a Civil Rights Intake Coordinator in the Office of Institutional Equity

Suggestions regarding: Preserving Evidence

Regardless of whether an incident of crime, including sexual misconduct, is reported to the police or the University, Ohio State strongly encourages individuals who have experienced hate crimes or sexual misconduct to preserve evidence to the greatest extent possible, as this will best maintain all legal options for the future.

The Ohio State University Police Department has officers who are specially trained to work with individuals reporting sexual violence. Further, University Police has a written guarantee for sexual violence survivors that reflects its primary concern for survivors and emphasizes sensitivity and privacy. University Police can also assist in reviewing options with survivors and identifying and facilitating support resources related to:

• Seeking medical attention
• Seeking support, advocacy and counseling services
• Discussing legal options, including seeking protective orders from a court
• Options under the university’s sexual misconduct investigation process

Reports of sexual misconduct made to University Police will automatically be reported to the Title IX coordinator regardless of whether the individual who experienced the sexual misconduct chooses to pursue criminal charges. Title IX will contact the individual with rights and options, but there is no obligation to respond to any outreach or to participate in a university investigation.

THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY POLICE DEPARTMENT
COLUMBUS CAMPUS

Blankenship Hall
901 Woody Hayes Drive, Columbus OH 43210
Phone: 614-292-2121 (non-emergency)

For emergencies, dial 9-1-1

OFF-CAMPUS REPORTING

Crimes occurring off campus in Columbus should be reported to the City of Columbus Police 9-1-1 (emergency) or 614-645-4545 (non-emergency). Crimes occurring off campus in other communities should be reported to the local police agencies.

Upper Arlington Police at 9-1-1 (emergency) or 614-459-2800 (non-emergency).

Clinton Township Police at 9-1-1 (emergency) or 614-471-1479 (non-emergency).

Grandview Heights Police at 9-1-1 (emergency) or 614-488-7901 (non-emergency).

The following resources are available for individuals to discuss incidents and issues related to discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct on a confidential basis. Confidential resources can provide information about support services and options.

Confidential resources will not disclose information about incidents or sexual misconduct to anyone, including law enforcement or the university, except in very limited situations, such as when failure to disclose the information would result in imminent danger to the individual or to others.

Because of the confidential nature of these resources, disclosing information to or seeking advice from a confidential resource does not constitute a report or complaint to the university and will not result in a response or intervention by the university. Confidential advocates may have to disclose information regarding the type and location of crimes occurring on campus property, but they do not have to include any names or details.

Confidential Advocacy

Sarnco

The Sexual Assault Response Network of Central Ohio (SARNCO) has a 24-hour Crisis Helpline 614-267-7020 or 844-OHIO-HELP - Callers across Ohio can speak to a trained advocate who will provide confidential emotional support, crisis response and information, and options for local resources in their community.

SARNCO Brochure

SARNCO On-Campus Advocates (614-688-2518) — provide confidential support for survivors of sexual violence, including students, faculty, staff, and visitors of Ohio State's Columbus campus. On-Campus Advocates are accessible Monday-Friday by phone and by email. Survivors, co-survivors and our partners on/off campus are welcome to call and email Eliza.Sabo@ohiohealth.com.

The on-campus office is at 33 W. 11th Avenue, Room 202, Columbus, OH 43201.

SARNCO AFTERCARE ADVOCACY 

Provides support for survivors whose needs go beyond advocacy received in the emergency room or Helpline. This program empowers survivors and co-survivors to access community resources to aid in their journey of recovery, such as reporting with law enforcement, safety planning and more. Survivors can call 614-788-4739 to reach the Aftercare Advocacy coordinators. Aftercare advocates are available to meet with anyone at the location of their choice, including on campus. Advocates can also make anonymous appointments with university staff to learn more about rights and options if the survivor chooses to report.

Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline

The Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline is a 24/7 confidential resource providing advocacy and support for survivors of sexual violence across Ohio, including students, faculty, and staff at The Ohio State University. Staffed by trained advocates, the Helpline provides:

• Confidential emotional support
• Crisis Response
• Information about options and local resources available to survivors and co-survivors or their friends and family

A crucial component of the Helpline's advocacy efforts is to listen and empower survivors with information about their options so that they have a choice in their next steps toward healing. The Ohio Sexual Violence Helplines aims to ensure that no matter where in Ohio a survivor is located, they will have 24-hour access to sexual violence advocacy and links to resources and options in their local community.

Buckeye Region Anti-Violence Organization Helpline - 866-86-BRAVO or 614-333-1907

The Buckeye Region Anti-Violence Organization (BRAVO) provides comprehensive individual and community programs for survivor advocacy and support to LGBTQI survivors of hate and bias violence, discrimination, intimate partner violence, stalking, and/or sexual assault. If you or someone you know has experienced violence, threats, or intimidation, BRAVO can work with you to help ensure your safety and provide the support you need.

All calls are kept strictly confidential and can be made anonymously. BRAVO will guide you through a simple process of gathering information about the incident and about yourself. There are no requirements. You are allowed to share the level of information that is comfortable for you. You may even choose to report anonymously. BRAVO will help you explore your options and potential courses of action as well as assist in developing a safety plan.

Keep in mind that there is no requirement to make a police report; however, if you choose to make a police report, BRAVO can explain the procedure and provide in-person support and advocacy throughout the process. After your initial contact with BRAVO, they will still be there for you and can assist and accompany you through all steps in the process.

BRAVO's Helpline is staffed:
Weekdays: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (phone/text/chat)

Walk-in Hours: Wednesday-Friday 9 a.m to 5 p.m. (no appointment needed).

LSS CHOICES for Victims of Domestic Violence 24-hour Hotline 614-244-HOME (4663)

LSS CHOICES has provided counseling, shelter, crisis intervention, education, and community and legal support and advocacy to central Ohio residents facing domestic violence. LSS CHOICES is the only domestic violence shelter in Franklin County.

24-hour Domestic Violence Crisis, Information and Referral Line- HOTLINE staff are trained in safety planning and also provide information as well as referrals based on caller's individual needs.

TEMPORARY EMERGENCY SHELTER offers a safe refuge for victims and their children who are in imminent danger and have no safe place to go.

LEGAL AND COMMUNITY ADVOCATES Legal advocates located within the municipal court system offer support, gather information, assist with filing criminal charges, and obtain protection orders to help victims navigate the court system. Community advocates help connect victims with other programs and services to overcome barriers related to domestic violence.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE COUNSELING: Licensed professionals provide Individual counseling to aid in recovery from trauma related to domestic violence.

COMMUNITY EDUCATION SPEAKERS BUREAU: Education is the first step in the prevention of domestic violence. LSS CHOICES strives to educate the community at large about domestic violence in general and CHOICES' program and services especially.

PEER SUPPORT GROUPS: Facilitator-led peer support groups provide a safe space for survivors to gain insight as well as support from each other.

KENNEL: Only 3% of domestic violence shelters nationwide can accommodate pets. In partnership with Columbus Humane as an extension of their Safe Haven for Pets program, we offer a kennel for pets of victims.

See the Brochure for more information.

Confidential Counseling

Student Life Counseling and Consultation Service (CCS) (Students only)

Student Life's CCS provides counseling and consultation to all students enrolled at The Ohio State University. Students' spouses/partners who are covered by the Comprehensive Student Health Insurance are also eligible for services. CCS offers counseling and therapy to help students address personal, academic and career concerns. Both individual and group counseling are available. Their diverse staff specializes in a number of issues, including (but not limited to) substance abuse, eating disorders, sexual assault, relationship violence, international student concerns, LGBTQIA issues and multiculturalism.

Main office: 4th floor of the Younkin Success Center at 1640 Neil Avenue.
CCS Lincoln Tower office: 1030 Lincoln Tower, 1800 Cannon Dr.
Need Immediate Assistance: Visit the CCS website for information about the Crisis Text Line and emergency services.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) (Employees Only)

The Ohio State EAP, available 24/7/365 for Ohio State benefits-eligible faculty, staff, and family members provides life assistance for a wide array of personal, work-related, and daily living challenges such as stress, marital/family challenges, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, legal consultation, identify theft support, financial consultation, childcare and eldercare locators and much more. All EAP services are personalized to fit your specific need and are provided by The Ohio State University Health Plan, Inc.

See the Brochure for more information, email eap@osumc.edu or call 800-678-6265 for live immediate assistance 24/7.

Psychological Services Center 

The Psychological Services Center (PSC) provides evidence-based psychological treatments for a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, substance use, coping with chronic medical conditions, PTSD, OCD and personality disorders.

For more information about any of these services or to schedule an appointment, please call 614-292-2345 or email psc@psy.ohio-state.edu. 

Ohio State Behavioral Health Immediate Care 

The Behavioral Health Immediate Care (BHIC) clinic at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center is an adult outpatient behavioral health program that offers in-person or virtual medication management and therapy appointments for adult patients needing services bridged until they meet with their outpatient provider, as well as for those needing an appointment for urgent needs.

Services may be provided on a same-day basis. Walk-in appointments are available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. or until appointments are full. All new patients will be seen via walk-in hours only. Please check-in at Harding Lobby front desk upon arrival.

Learn more about Ohio State's behavioral health services.

Caution: If there is a risk of suicide or violence – Call 988

Ohio State Stress, Trauma, and Resilience Program (STAR) (For everyone)

The STAR (Stress, Trauma and Resilience) Program recognizes the importance of addressing experiences of trauma with evidence-based, trauma-informed practices and approaches to care. STAR TRC is a dedicated team whose sole purpose is the identification, education and treatment of those who have survived trauma and the people who support them. STAR TRC uses a variety of evidence-based therapies that have been shown to help survivors. STAR TRC personalizes your treatment according to your unique trauma experience.

STAR TRC staff includes physicians, licensed social workers, clinical counselors, case managers, psychiatrists, nurses and other professionals who coordinate internal and community resources to help you navigate your recovery.

No two traumatic events are exactly alike. STAR TRC staff work with each survivor to tailor treatment and support to match individualized needs. STAR TRC works with each survivor to help them learn how to recognize and cope with symptoms, and to navigate the healing process For information on the STAR Program, call 614-293-STAR (7827). Please choose option 1 for emergencies. You can also email STARTraumaRecoveryCenter@osumc.edu

Mt. Carmel Crime and Trauma Assistance Program (CTAP)

CTAP offers evidence-based, outpatient mental health counseling for individuals impacted by trauma, as well as therapeutic and skill-building groups, clinical case management, advocacy, education, and training to community members. CTAP strives to create and utilize safe spaces, relationships, and trauma-informed care practices to help survivors take steps toward healing.

CTAP services are provided at no cost to individuals, and CTAP clinicians have specific training and experience working directly with people impacted by trauma, in order to provide high quality, trauma-focused care.

To learn more about CTAP or to schedule an intake assessment, please call 614-234-5900 or email ctap@mchs.com.

Confidential Legal Resources

Student Legal Services (students only)

Student Legal Services is a non-profit law office providing legal services to eligible Ohio State students, including assistance with landlord-tenant disputes, obtaining civil protection orders and crime victims compensation. Attorneys are not university employees and will not result in a report to the university.

Location: 20 E 11th. Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
Phone: 614-247-5853

Employee Assistance Program (employees only)

The Ohio State University EAP Legal Assistance provides referrals to an attorney for a free, 30-minute consultation. If you decide to proceed with the attorney's services, you will receive a discount on their standard rates.

Legal Assistance resources are available to help you with areas such as:

• Developing a will
• Estate planning
• Assisting with questions about a divorce
• Custody concerns
• Bankruptcy

Through your EAP portal, you also have access to online legal resources such as:

• Articles on elder law, family law, property, and wills
• Videos
• Downloadable forms for contracts and worksheets

Visit osu.mylifeexpert.com to explore more about the legal services available.

Crimes occurring off campus in Columbus should be reported to the City of Columbus Police 9-1-1 (emergency) or 614-645-4545 (non-emergency). Crimes occurring off campus in other communities should be reported to the local police agencies.

Upper Arlington Police at 9-1-1 (emergency) or 614-459-2800 (non-emergency).

Clinton Township Police at 9-1-1 (emergency) or 614-471-1479 (non-emergency).

Grandview Heights Police at 9-1-1 (emergency) or 614-488-7901 (non-emergency).

Under Ohio law, people who have a knowledge of a felony are required to report the crime to the police (Ohio Revised Code 2921.22). Failure to report a crime may itself be a crime.

Information on criminal behavior may be reported to the University Police Division and to the offices of Student Conduct and University Housing. The university strongly encourages crime victims to report all criminal activity to police.

Title IX is enforced by the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights. Inquiries about the application of Title IX can be made to Ohio State's Title IX Coordinator, the US Department of Education’s Assistant Secretary, or both. For information on how to file a discrimination complaint with the Office of Civil Rights, see: How to File a Discrimination Complaint With the Office for Civil Rights. The following information is from that document:

WHO CAN FILE A DISCRIMINATION COMPLAINT?

Anyone who believes that an educational institution that receives federal financial assistance has discriminated against someone on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age, or who believes that a public elementary or secondary school or state or local education agency has violated the Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act, may file a complaint. How to File a Discrimination Complaint With the Office for Civil Rights

The person or organization filing the complaint need not be a victim of the alleged discrimination but may complain on behalf of another person or group.

TIMELINESS

A complaint must be filed within 180 calendar days of the date of the alleged discrimination unless the time for filing is extended by OCR for good cause shown under certain circumstances.

INSTITUTIONAL GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES

Prior to filing a complaint with OCR against an institution, a potential complainant may want to find out about the institution’s grievance process and use that process to have the complaint resolved. However, a complainant is not required by law to use the institutional grievance process before filing a complaint with OCR. If a complainant uses an institutional grievance process and also chooses to file the complaint with OCR, the complaint must be filed with OCR within 60 days after completion of the institutional grievance process.

COMPLAINTS REGARDING SECTION 1557

For complaints regarding Section 1557, you can also file a civil rights complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights, electronically through the Office for Civil Rights Complaint Portal, available at https://ocrportal.hhs.gov/ocr/portal/lobby.jsf(opens in new window), or by mail or phone at U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 200 Independence Ave. SW, Room 509F, HHH Building, Washington, D.C. 20201, 800-868-1019, 800-537-7697 (TDD). Complaint forms are available at http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/office/file/index.html.

To view Ohio State's Campus Climate Surveys, including the most recent 2019 data, please visit Buckeyes Act (results can be found under the "Reports and Updates" sidebar).