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Information for Victims and Victim Advocates on Sexual Exploitation by
Counselors and Therapists
You Don't Have to Do This Alone
 I thought I would
have to do all of this alone. I was so relieved when I found out there was someone
willing to help me.
Choosing what action to take, if any, can feel overwhelming. You
don't have to take action alone. There are people in the helping professions who can
serve as advocates during the process. Advocacy means assisting you in whatever
action you choose to take. An advocate will help you to assess what your immediate
needs are, help you with crisis intervention when needed, have current information on what
options are available in your particular case, and be a resource and support system as you
begin to take action. For information on obtaining an advocate, contact your local
sexual assault center. (This may vary, depending on your state and county.)
No matter what option is chosen, complaint procedures are complicated and
can be very intimidating for clients. Sometimes advocates can make the initial
contacts. This would not be done without the client's permission. This can be
a way to initiate an investigation and may provide some reassurance that, if an actual
complaint is filed, the systems may work. Working with an advocate also provides
practice in telling the story or writing the complaint. The advocate's role is to
see that your story is heard when and how you choose to tell it.
Copyright © 1988 Minnesota Coalition Against Sexual Assault,
with edits by AdvocateWeb.
[ Intro ] [ Introduction ] [ Definitions of Sexual Exploitation ] [ Warning Signs ] [ If it is You ] [ Questions You May Be Asking ] [ Counselors Who Exploit ] [ Consider the Options ] [ You Don't Have to Do This Alone ] [ For Concerned Persons ] [ Choosing a Counselor ] [ Client's Bill of Rights ]
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Exploitation
