Advocacy and Support

UT Austin provides two private support programs for students who have been impacted by interpersonal violence that are not mandated to report to Title IX.

Who We Serve

Both programs provide private and free services for UT Austin students who have been impacted by sexual assault, relationship violence, stalking, sexual harassment, and gender-based discrimination. This may include:

• A student processing an incident of violence, regardless of timeframe
• A student unsure if they were assaulted
• A student wondering if their relationship is healthy
• Friends, partners, or family members of someone who is experiencing interpersonal violence
• Faculty and staff members who are concerned about a student

How We Can Help

We empower students by providing information, tools, and resources and by allowing students to determine the course of action that best fits their needs. We are trained to listen and work with students respectfully in whatever decision they make. When meeting with a confidential support person, students may share as much or as little as they feel comfortable. Services include, but are not limited to:

• Offering a safe and private setting to discuss questions, concerns, and experiences regarding an incident of interpersonal violence
• Engaging in respectful, active listening and emotional support
• Providing information about students' rights and options regarding the Title IX reporting and investigation process
• Exploring academic, housing, medical, and or/ financial accommodations and remedies
• Referrals for on and off campus resources

Make an Appointment

Privacy

Information disclosed during appointments will not be shared with anyone without the student's written permission. However, in the situation where there is reasonable fear of imminent harm to the student or the campus community, we will take action to ensure safety.

IVPS and Advocates are non-mandatory reporting resources, but are not protected under Texas law as confidential. If a student's record is requested under certain legal circumstances (e.g. subpoena or court of law) or open records request, we may be required to respond.

Additional Information and Resources

The Interpersonal Violence Peer Support program is managed by Student Emergency Services in the Office of the Dean of Students, with a partnership between the Title IX Office and Voices Against Violence at the Counseling and Mental Health Center.

• Additional campus confidential resources:
  • Counseling and Mental Health Center
  • University Health Services
• Information on reporting options, please visit Title IX.
• FAQ for Advocates and Peer Supporters (pdf)

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