I am a survivor. Where do I start?

 

You Are Not Alone

If you’re here, please know this: what happened was not your fault. You deserve support, healing, and hope.

Being harmed by a trusted school employee can leave lasting emotional and physical effects. You may feel overwhelmed, ashamed, or unsure where to start. That’s okay. Healing takes time—and reaching out is a strong and courageous step.

Begin with our FAQ, where we list the most common questions and concerns survivors have when reaching out to us.

 

You can also read our powerful Survivor Stories, where other survivors give their accounts of grooming, abuse, cover-up, and eventual healing.
 
Do I Need Professional Help?

Many survivors experience anxiety, anger, fear, guilt, or sadness. These feelings can affect sleep, relationships, work, or school. A trauma-informed therapist can help you process what happened and start to heal. Ask a school counselor, social worker, or your insurance provider for help finding someone experienced with abuse and trauma.

If You’re Female

Female survivors often carry deep shame or blame. Some struggle with body image, self-harm, or intimacy. You may have been told the abuse was your fault. It wasn’t. You are not broken. With support, you can reclaim your strength and build healthy, respectful relationships.
 
If You’re Male

Male survivors may feel pressure to stay silent. Abuse is often dismissed—especially if the abuser was a woman. You may feel confused, ashamed, or afraid of how others will see you. These feelings are valid. You deserve to be heard, supported, and believed.

If You Have a Disability

Students with disabilities face a higher risk of abuse in schools. Abusers may take advantage of physical or communication needs. These crimes are often ignored—but your safety and dignity matter. If you or someone you care for has a disability and is a survivor, we’re here to help you find safe, trusted support.

You Deserve to Heal

There’s no one “right” way to heal. Whether you want justice, connection, understanding, or simply peace—you are not alone.
 
We can help connect you to:

• Trauma-informed therapy and crisis support

• Legal and reporting resources

• Support groups and peer communities

• Articles, research, and tools to better understand your experience

 
Taking care of yourself is not selfish—it’s an act of strength. Healing is possible. We’re here to help.