Standing With Survivors

April marks Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time dedicated to honoring survivors, amplifying their voices, and fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges they face.

At Roots and Rays Creative Counseling, we are committed to empowering survivors and educating allies on how to provide compassionate and effective support.​ Here are some ways to intentionally engage in the anti-rape movement during the month of April.

Believing Survivors: The Foundation of Support

One of the most profound ways to support a survivor is to believe them. There are many reasons why a survivor of sexual assault may be reluctant to tell their story.  Among these reasons may be the fear of being blamed for the assault or not being believed by anyone.  Survivors of sexual assault often have to contend with a pervasive and dominant Rape Culture that both promotes and tolerates Victim Blaming.  Survivors may also be less likely to come forward if there is a significant power difference between the perpetrator and themselves, such as in the case of prominent political figures or religious leaders.  One of the most powerful ways one can be an ally to a survivors is to say, “I believe you.” Acknowledging their experience without skepticism validates their feelings and fosters a safe environment for healing. Tarana Burke, founder of the 'me too.' movement, emphasizes the power of empathy in healing- “me too” are words of solidarity and care. (excerpt from Sexual Assault from A-Z: A Guide to Terminology and Resources for Survivors and Their Allies)

Seek Specialized Therapeutic Support

The journey toward healing from sexual violence is deeply personal and often complex. Engaging with a trauma specialist can provide survivors with tailored strategies to navigate their experiences. Therapies such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and art therapy have shown efficacy in processing trauma and reducing associated symptoms. Selecting a therapist who is both trauma-informed and healing-centered is pivotal in effectively addressing and processing experiences of sexual violence. Such professionals provide a safe, supportive environment tailored to the unique needs of trauma survivors, facilitating a path toward recovery and empowerment.​

Trauma-informed therapy acknowledges the profound impact of traumatic experiences on an individual's life, encompassing cognitive, emotional, and physical aspects. This therapeutic approach integrates various methods, including cognitive, emotional, and behavioral techniques, to address traumatic experiences while recognizing trauma as a fundamental aspect of the healing process.

Be An Empowered Ally: Educate and Engage

Understanding the nuances of sexual assault and the resources available is crucial for allies. Annie Novotny, founder of Roots and Rays Creative Counseling, wrote the book Sexual Assault from A-Z: A Guide to Terminology and Resources for Survivors and Their Allies, to serve as a comprehensive resource, offering clarity on terminology, statistics, and support systems within the rape-crisis movement. By educating themselves, allies can navigate the complex landscape of interventions and provide informed support to survivors.​

Join Community

Healing does not occur in isolation. Building a community that stands in solidarity with survivors fosters resilience and empowerment. The 'me too.' movement has illuminated the prevalence of sexual violence and the strength found in shared experiences. As Margaret Mead so aptly put, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."​

An Invitation To Collaborate

At Roots and Rays Creative Counseling, we are dedicated to walking alongside survivors and their allies on the path to healing. If you or someone you know is seeking support, we invite you to reach out. Together, we can navigate the complexities of recovery, fostering a future where every survivor feels believed, supported, and empowered.​

For immediate assistance, the National Sexual Assault Hotline offers confidential support 24/7 at 800-656-HOPE (4673) or via online chat. For more resources for survivors and those that love them, check out the list of national and local resources we put together on our site.