At BARCC, our hotline exists to help survivors feel supported immediately and find the next steps they need to move forward. Volunteers are required to take an extensive, 40-hour rape crisis counselor training that prepares them to support people in all stages of their experience, from the immediate crisis after an assault to years and even decades into the healing process. Hotline counselors provide emotional support, referrals to services, and explain the resources available.

Here’s what to expect when you call our hotline:

  1.  A friendly, nonjudgmental person, who believes you and hears you will answer your call.
  2. We’ll ask some questions to help identify what would help you in this exact moment.
  3. We’ll share ideas and options about what to do next, but how to move forward is your choice.

A few things won’t happen when you call BARCC. [cw: suicide]

  1. We will NOT share your information with anyone unless you provide your consent.
  2. You do NOT have to share any information you don’t want to. You can call our hotline completely anonymously by choosing option 2 in the main menu or by using our web chat barcc.org/chat
  3. We will NOT call 911 unless you share that you will take action to end your life and you are unable to engage in safety planning. At the start of each call, we tell callers that sharing this kind of information may result in a call to 911. Callers always have a choice to share – or not share – what they’re going through.

We understand that there can be a risk of danger and retraumatization when emergency services are called to support individuals in crisis. This is why at BARCC, we do not call 911 without consent, unless the person shares they will take action to end their life imminently and they are unable to engage in safety planning. We explain this policy at the beginning of each conversation so callers always have a choice of what they choose to share with BARCC hotline counselors.

Ultimately, our goal is to provide survivors with a confidential space where they are in control of their own journey, no matter what challenges they face. We are here for you, we see you, and we believe you. If you need support, please don’t hesitate to call our 24-7 hotline at 800-841-8371 or chat 9 a.m.–11 p.m. barcc.org/chat.

Barcc updates

The Latest from the Blog

  • A woman with long curly hair and a gray scarf stands outdoors in a park, soaking in the autumn foliage.
    Feb 07, 2025 | In the News |

    Immigrant Survivors Need Our Help, Now More Than Ever

    Immigration is an act of courage. For many, the journey to a new country is an escape from violence, oppression, and trauma for a better future.

  • Emily Mellen wearing a medal and holding a water bottle smiles triumphantly after the Boston Marathon, standing in front of a barrier with others celebrating in the background.
    Jan 30, 2025 | Stories of Impact |

    Meet BARCC’s Amazing Boston Marathon Runner, Emily Mellen

    As we move forward, let’s honor Dr. King’s legacy by continuing to stand with survivors, and fight for policies that build a safer world.

  • Nicole Kidman from the movie Babygirl, sipping from a glass of milk while wearing a light-colored shirt.
    Jan 29, 2025 | In the News |

    Babygirl’s EMDR Therapy Scene, Let’s Talk About It

    As we move forward, let’s honor Dr. King’s legacy by continuing to stand with survivors, and fight for policies that build a safer world.

Dedicated to Healing and Empowerment, Advocating for Change.

Together, we can end sexual violence.