Snoqualmie Valley Assault Treatment Services (SVATS)
We start by believing.
Our mission is to initiate and maintain valuable programs delivering timely, compassionate, confidential, and inclusive care to adolescent and adult survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence.
We welcome and encourage all individuals to feel empowered and safe to contact us. Your care and safety is our priority.
Services
- Acute Sexual Assault, Intimate Partner Violence, and Strangulation Exams for adolescents aged 13 and up, and adults on an appointment basis.
- Comprehensive, prompt primary care and forensic follow up appointments.
How to Reach Us
You can reach our team by calling 425-831-2300. Our staff will guide you through basic screening questions and connect you with an on-call examiner. While walk-ins are welcome at our Emergency Department, we recommend calling ahead to reduce your waiting time.
If you’re already a primary care patient, your Primary Care Provider (PCP) can refer you to our services. Additionally, you can access our support through local law enforcement, though procedures may vary based on your location.
Accessing our Services
No Law Enforcement Involvement Required: You are not obligated to contact law enforcement or file a police report to receive an exam. Under the federal Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), you can opt for an “anonymous” exam, granting you approximately one year to decide on evidence processing.
Exam Eligibility: Most individuals qualify for an acute exam within 120 hours (5 days) of the assault. However, exceptions exist. We are here to assist you in determining if an exam is appropriate; please call 425-831-2300.
Adolescent Autonomy: In Washington State, individuals aged 13 and older can make reproductive healthcare decisions without parental consent or involvement. Learn more about this legislature here.
No Insurance or Citizenship Requirements: You do not need health insurance or citizenship status to obtain an exam. Washington State’s Crime Victims Compensation Program covers the initial forensic exam and related follow-up care (some exceptions apply; an application is required for follow-up care).
We encourage everyone to feel empowered and safe in reaching out to us. Your care and safety are our top priorities.
Defining Abuse and Assault
Sexual Assault: Any unwanted sexual contact, including rape. Anybody can be sexually assaulted, no matter your age, gender, sexual or gender orientation, or background. We believe you.
Intimate Partner Violence: in Washington State, the definition of an intimate partner is broad. It includes current married partners, ex-married partners, domestic partnerships, roommates, relatives, close friends, dating relationships, ex-dating relationships, and anybody who is co-parenting together, even if it is not a shared biological child. Intimate partner violence can sometimes be very obvious (like physical injuries) and sometimes less obvious, like emotional abuse, coercive control, and financial abuse. If you think you’re in an abusive relationship, we’re here to help.
Strangulation: Sometimes called non-fatal strangulation, choking, throttling, or suffocating, this is often found in violent relationships. It’s important to be seen after strangulation, as there can be delayed complications and you may be in danger in your relationship. We’re here to help.
Preparing for Your Exam
If possible, avoid showering, bathing, urinating, wiping your body or private areas, eating, or drinking before your exam. These actions can impact evidence collection, but your health and well-being always come first.
If you change clothes, bring the clothing you were wearing during or immediately after the incident. Please note that these items may not be returned for an extended period due to evidence processing. Underwear worn during or after the incident is the highest priority for evidence collection.
We recommend calling ahead at 425-831-2300 to confirm that an examiner is available.
If you live in the Snoqualmie Valley and need transportation, we’re working to partner with Snoqualmie Valley Transportation (SVT) to provide prompt transportation. This service will be available soon.
Coming Soon…
Volunteer With Us
Whether you’re interested in becoming a volunteer advocate or assisting with simple, supportive tasks, we’d love to have you on our team. Stay tuned for more information about how you can get involved.
Item Donations
Do you have extra new clothing, comfort items like stuffed animals or small quilts, packaged snacks, or other items that could provide comfort and care? We’d greatly appreciate your support. Contact our program manager, Katherine Thompson, PA-C, to learn more about donating.
Expanded Services
We’re working to broaden our offerings, including 24/7 services, care for all age groups, and specialized child abuse exams. These additions will ensure comprehensive support for our entire community.
Meet Our SVATS Team
Katherine Thompson
PA-C
Katherine Thompson
Master of Clinical Health Services – University of Washington MEDEX 2016
Katherine Thompson, PA-C, is a dedicated healthcare professional serving as part of the Snoqualmie Ridge Urgent Care team. She is committed to delivering exceptional care and contributing to the mission of providing thoughtful, holistic, patient-centered healthcare to the Snoqualmie Valley.
What truly excites Katherine about being a part of Snoqualmie Valley Hospital is the opportunity for growth and the ability to build new resources within the health district. She believes in constantly improving healthcare services and finding innovative ways to better serve the community. Katherine’s passion lies in trauma-informed care, particularly for survivors of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, child abuse, and human trafficking. Her focus on this niche area demonstrates her deep commitment to supporting and advocating for those who have experienced trauma.
Outside of her professional life, Katherine finds joy in living in the picturesque Snoqualmie Valley. The proximity to nature and a wide range of outdoor activities provides her with a perfect balance to her work. She appreciates the easy access to hiking trails, scenic views, and the opportunity to engage in her favorite pastime: competitive rowing as a masters rower for Lake Sammamish. When she’s not rowing or immersed in her work, Katherine enjoys spending time with her one-and-only grey tabby cat, who keeps her company and brings joy to her life.