Has someone said or done something sexual or inappropriate that made you feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or powerless? Did someone cross your boundaries or are you unsure whether what happened to you was okay? Are you affected by sexualized violence—or concerned about someone who is?

You are not alone. Whether something happened recently or a long time ago, whether you’re affected yourself or worried about someone close to you: we’re here to support you.

What Is Sexual Violence?

If you’re unsure whether what happened to you was sexual violence, that’s completely understandable. Many people feel that way. You don’t need to name or define what happened in order to seek help.

Sexual violence can take many forms. Examples include:

• unwanted touching
• sexist comments or catcalling
• sexual harassment online or in person
• stalking or threats
• rape or sexual abuse

Some experiences are confusing or hard to talk about—but that doesn’t make them any less valid. If you’re asking yourself questions like “Was I sexually assaulted?”, “Why did this happen to me?”, or “What can I do now?”— we are here to listen, inform, and support you at your own pace.

Who Can Reach Out?

We are a counseling center for women, lesbians, intersex, non-binary, trans, and agender people aged 14 and older. We provide support to anyone who is affected by sexual violence regardless of when and where the violence occurred.

We also offer assistance and guidance to people who are helping someone else — whether you’re a friend, partner, family member, teacher, or social worker.

How We Support You

Our counseling is free of charge, confidential, and—if you wish—completely anonymous. You don’t need to give your real name or share personal details. We’re here to help, whether you want to learn about your legal options, the different types of resources available to you, or just need someone to listen. Counseling can offer a safe space to explore what you need and how to move forward.

We strive to create a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment. This means that you decide what you want to share and what kind of help you need.

You can reach us by phone, e-mail, in person at our office in Heidelberg, or through secure video calls. If you prefer to speak in your own language, female interpreters can assist during your counseling sessions.

About Us

Frauennotruf Heidelberg is a rape crisis center that has been supporting survivors of sexual violence since 1978. We are an independent, non-profit organization, which is not affiliated with any political party or religious institution.

Our work is grounded in feminist values, centered around empowerment, and guided by an intersectional perspective. This means we recognize and respect the many ways people can be affected by violence, discrimination, and social inequality.