DO YOU NEED AN ADVOCATE?
Sexual Abuse
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Are you concerned that inappropriate contact may have occurred to you or someone you know?
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Do you suspect that someone close to you is manipulating you into doing things that make you uncomfortable?
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Do you want to speak with someone who can empathize with you and will commit to helping you in your difficult walk of life?
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Are you worried that if you approach the church leaders about this inappropriate contact, you will feel intimidated as the only woman in the room?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, we would love to connect you with an advocate.
Our advocates are trained and experienced helpers, but they are not licensed counselors!
What is an advocate?
• An advocate is a representative for you. • An advocate is a trusted confidante. • An advocate is someone who comes alongside you. • An advocate is your helper and supporter.
What are some of the things an advocate can do for you?
• An advocate can help you navigate church, legal, and practical issues. • An advocate can be present at meetings with you and your elders, and can represent you in your interactions with your own family and the family of the perpetrator. • An advocate can ensure that your voice is heard and taken seriously. • An advocate can assist you in your daily challenges and trials.
Why would you desire an advocate?
• Your advocate sees and hears you and helps ensure that others see and hear as well. • Abuse can be disorienting, which may cause you to struggle to communicate with clarity. An advocate can help you make sense of what is happening, and assist you in explaining your situation and thoughts to those who need to know and understand. • You will find a sense of peace in the knowledge that you have someone to turn to who has empathy for your plight. • An advocate can help you find safe housing, and connect you with professionals such as a lawyer and a counselor.
What does an advocate NOT do?
• An advocate does not tell you what to do. You have had your decision-making capabilities taken away from you too many times, and you need to be enabled to make your own God-honoring decisions. • An advocate does not have loose lips. The advocate keeps things related to your case confidential for your sake. Prior to beginning to work with you, the advocate will sign a confidentiality agreement. • An advocate does not attempt to be your savior. The advocate will point you to Christ, Who is your Savior and perfect Advocate in heaven.