Participate in Our Research
OVERVIEW
About the Mhaven Initiative
Rising rates of gender-based and intimate partner violence, unmet mental-health needs, and fragmented pathways to care point to a critical gap, especially for culturally safe services that address both survivors and individuals who have used violence. We created Mhaven to address that gap with partners across community and hospital settings.
Core Research & Expertise Areas
We combine research, service navigation, and practice tools in one digital-first hub, centring lived experience and collaboration between survivors, those who have used violence, families, communities, and practitioners.
Survivors
With shared protocols and governance, we’re creating a seamless continuum of care (e.g., work with OSP on an intimate partner violence-focused stream).
People Concerned About Their Behaviour & Looking to Change
Our approach creates distinct yet connected pathways for survivors, those who have used violence, families, and professionals. Each path is grounded in trauma- and violence-informed, culturally safe care and recognizes the intersecting impacts of gender, race, culture, disability, income, and migration status on safety and mental health.
Family, Friends & Caregivers
Mhaven strengthens practice across sectors through digital and blended training, tools, and communities of learning. Resources such as ODARA 101, LEAP, and tailored education modules support mental health clinicians, gender-based and intimate partner violence workers, justice partners, and allied professionals to respond more confidently and consistently to mental health needs.
Frontline Workers & Clinicians
Mhaven supports frontline workers and clinicians with practical, evidence-informed tools to better recognize and respond to intimate partner violence in mental health settings. Through research, training, and shared learning, the initiative helps providers strengthen trauma- and violence-informed practice, referral pathways, and continuity of care.
Community Partners, Organizations & Researchers
Mhaven creates opportunities for community partners, organizations, and researchers to contribute to a more connected system of care. By sharing expertise, identifying service gaps, and co-developing research-informed resources, partners help shape stronger pathways for people affected by intimate partner violence.
Participation FAQs
Participating in research on intimate partner violence (IPV) can help improve understanding, supports, and safety for those affected. It’s normal to have questions about safety, privacy, and what to expect. Here are answers to common questions for people considering taking part in research.
Researchers are trained to prioritize your physical and emotional safety. This may include setting up safe times to talk, using private communication methods, and ensuring your partner is not aware of your participation.
You are always in control of your participation. You can choose what to share, skip any questions, take breaks, or stop at any time—no explanation needed.
If you feel distressed at any point, researchers can pause or stop the conversation and help connect you to support if needed. If you are currently in an unsafe situation, many studies provide information about local supports, safety planning, and counselling. Researchers are also trained to respond to serious safety concerns and have protocols in place for high-risk situations.
Participation may involve completing a survey, taking part in an interview (in person, by phone, or online), or providing feedback on tools or resources.
Topics may explore a range of experiences, perspectives, or needs related to relationships, safety, and supports.
Time commitment varies by study and will always be explained in advance. Researchers aim to offer flexible options (e.g., phone, virtual, or in-person) to support different needs and preferences.
Researchers are expected to create a respectful, non-judgmental space that prioritizes your comfort and safety. You are encouraged to ask questions at any time, raise concerns, disclose only what you are comfortable sharing, and communicate your needs. Research teams should respect your boundaries and respond accordingly.
Researchers take strong steps to protect your privacy. Your participation is kept confidential, and secure systems are used to protect your information whenever possible.
Your data may be de-identified (meaning identifiers are removed but could potentially be re-linked to you) or anonymized (meaning it cannot be traced back to you at all). Findings will be shared only in aggregate form and in a way that does not reveal your identity. If you have any questions about how your data will be managed, please feel free to contact the research team.
In some cases, there may be legal limits to confidentiality depending on local laws. For example, there may be requirements to report concerns about the safety of a child. Any limits to confidentiality will be clearly explained before you decide to participate, so you can make an informed choice.
Participation is completely voluntary. Choosing not to participate will not affect any services or supports you receive.
Before participating, you will be given clear information about the study and asked for your consent.
Some research opportunities offer compensation (e.g., gift cards or honoraria) to recognize your time. Details will always be shared before you decide to participate.
Research opportunities are led by trusted partners, including healthcare organizations, researchers, and community-based organizations working in the IPV and mental health space.
Opportunities to participate will be shared through Mhaven and partner organizations when available. Each opportunity will include details about who can take part and how to get involved.
Taking part in research can help improve services, supports, and policies for people affected by IPV. Some studies may also offer tools or resources to support safety planning. Many people find it meaningful to share their experiences in a space where they are listened to with care and respect.
Interested in Taking Part in our Research Initiatives?
There are many ways to support Mhaven in research initiatives. Partner as a service organization, participate in research, participate in training, or contribute lived-experience insights. Connect with the Mhaven team to learn how you or your organization can be part of this work.
Ready to Partner With Mhaven?
If your organization is supporting people affected by intimate partner violence or working to improve how systems respond, we’d love to hear from you.
Share a bit about your work, and we’ll follow up to explore next steps together.