Final answer:
Victim advocacy services, such as those provided by the FBWC, are optional and based on voluntary participation, emphasizing a trauma-informed, non-judgmental approach that values trust, safety, and confidentiality.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, the use of victim advocacy services is optional. These services are designed to support survivors of crimes, such as intimate partner violence, by providing voluntary and non-judgmental support. The approach taken by organizations like the FBWC (Fort Bend Women's Center) emphasizes a trauma-informed care model that focuses on enhancing internal motivation in survivors and fostering open and honest communication. Key elements of this model are the offering of voluntary services and non-judgmental advocacy, which create an environment where survivors can feel safe and empowered to share their experiences without feeling coerced. Trust, safety, and confidentiality are central to the survivor's ability to choose whether to engage with these services.