As a Texas Title IX advisor, supporting survivors of sexual assault is a crucial part of your role. Survivors of sexual assault may experience a range of emotions, including fear, anxiety, and shame, and it’s essential to provide them with the support and resources they need to heal and recover. In this blog, we’ll provide best practices for Texas Title IX advisors on how to support survivors of sexual assault.

Create a safe and supportive environment

Creating a safe and supportive environment is the first step in supporting survivors of sexual assault. This includes providing a private and confidential space for survivors to talk about their experiences, listening without judgment, and validating their emotions and experiences. It’s important to communicate that you believe them and that their experience is valid.

Provide information about resources and options

Survivors of sexual assault may not be aware of the resources and options available to them. As a Texas Title IX advisor, it’s important to provide survivors with information about available resources, such as counseling services, victim advocacy organizations, and legal assistance. It’s also important to explain their options for reporting, including reporting to their school or employer, law enforcement, or both.

Understand the impact of trauma

Survivors of sexual assault may experience a range of physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms as a result of their trauma. It’s essential to understand the impact of trauma and how it may affect survivors’ ability to participate in the Title IX investigation process. This includes being patient and understanding and providing accommodations, such as breaks during meetings or interviews.

Collaborate with other support services

Collaborating with other support services can help provide survivors with a holistic approach to healing and recovery. This includes working with counseling services, victim advocacy organizations, and legal assistance to ensure that survivors have access to the resources they need.

Empower survivors

Empowering survivors is a crucial part of supporting them through the healing process. This includes providing them with information and options and allowing them to make their own decisions about how to proceed. It is essential to make it clear to the person that they are the ones in charge of their own healing and that you are there to support them in whatever they choose to do.