In recognition of October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Dr. Charissa D. Pizarro welcomes Simona Badger, LCSW. Together, they explore the intersection of domestic violence, immigration, and mental health, shedding light on the unique challenges faced by survivors, particularly those whose immigration status may create additional barriers to seeking safety and support.
Drawing from their professional experiences, they discuss the importance of trauma-informed and culturally responsive mental health evaluations, the role of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), and how forensic mental health assessments can help document the psychological impact of abuse and support survivors navigating complex immigration processes.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month reminds us that behind every case is a human story—one deserving of dignity, compassion, and the opportunity to heal.
Join us for this meaningful conversation about survival, resilience, and the power of using our professional voices to support those whose stories too often go unheard.
About Our Guest: Simona Badger, LCSW
Simona Badger, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Forensic Social Worker, and educator with over 17 years of experience at the intersection of mental health and the legal system. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Lehman College and a Master of Social Work from Fordham University, specializing in Clinical Social Work and Law.
Her experience as a domestic violence therapist introduced her to forensic mental health and the Victim Against Women Act (VAWA). At the shelter, she worked with survivors who were self-petitioning for U.S. residency without their abusive partners’ knowledge. Over the past 9 years, Simona has conducted child custody evaluations, sentencing evaluations, risk assessments, occupational forensic evaluations, and forensic immigration mental health evaluations and expert testimony. Simona approaches each evaluation with impartiality, clinical integrity, and compassion.
Ms. Badger conducts immigration mental health evaluations for asylum, VAWA, T-Visa, U-Visa, Extreme Hardship, and Cancellation of Removal cases. For over 17 years, she has provided specialized forensic mental health assessments and treatment to children and adults impacted by prolonged trauma, political trauma, and economic hardship, including survivors of domestic violence, sex trafficking, community violence, and torture.
Disclaimer
Mariposa Rising is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The discussions and opinions shared by the host and guests do not constitute psychological treatment, mental health advice, or legal advice, nor do they establish a professional therapeutic relationship.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, we encourage you to seek support from a qualified professional or one of the resources listed below. If you are in immediate danger, please contact emergency services.
National Resources
1. National Domestic Violence Hotline
Confidential, 24/7 support for survivors of domestic violence, including safety planning, crisis intervention, and referrals to local resources. Assistance is available in English, Spanish, and other languages.
- Call: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- Text: START to 88788
- Website: https://www.thehotline.org
2. RAINN — National Sexual Assault Hotline
Free, confidential, 24/7 support for survivors of sexual violence and their loved ones.
- Call: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
- Text: HOPE to 64673
- Website: https://rainn.org
3. WomensLaw.org
Provides legal information for survivors of domestic violence, including information about restraining orders, immigration protections, VAWA self-petitions, U visas, and T visas.
- Website: https://www.womenslaw.org
New Jersey and Hudson County Resources
4. New Jersey Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline
Free, confidential, 24/7 assistance for individuals experiencing domestic violence, including connections to shelter, counseling, and advocacy services.
- Call: 1-800-572-SAFE (7233)
5. WomenRising — Hudson County, New Jersey
Provides emergency shelter, crisis intervention, counseling, safety planning, legal advocacy, and support services for survivors of domestic violence. Bilingual assistance is available.
- 24/7 Hotline: 201-333-5700
- Website: https://www.womenrising.org
- Location: 270 Fairmount Avenue, Jersey City, NJ
A Message to Survivors
If you are experiencing domestic violence, please know that you deserve safety, dignity, and support. Abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, and financial abuse. You do not have to navigate these experiences alone. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. If someone may be monitoring your phone or internet activity, consider accessing these resources from a safer device.
Your story matters. Your safety matters. Your healing matters.