The women in the study demonstrated symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that had the potential to interfere with their ability to function effectively in their environment. Despite clinically significant trauma symptoms, women demonstrated a desire to be financially independent and productive. The prevalence of women who demonstrated significant defensive avoidance may represent their desire and ability to pursue higher functioning despite their traumatic symptoms. The women’s mental health functioning and their prioritization of needs differed based on their level of involvement with the domestic violence service delivery system. Even though women in all groups had some areas in which they needed assistance, the specific focus of their needs and their ability to address those needs varied for women in different living situations. Therefore, the mental health needs of women at different stages of service delivery must be understood in the context of their functional priorities in order to develop and deliver appropriate and meaningful services. Domestic violence is a problem faced by women in all socioeconomic strata. Victims of domestic violence encounter numerous health problems that may be temporary or may lead to a permanent disability. The primary purpose of this study was to explore the trauma symptomatology in victims of domestic violence and to describe their self-identified life skills needs to live independently in the community. Tables and references