Sexual Assault Response Team (SART)
The Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) at AWARE is committed to empowering survivors with compassionate, trauma-informed care and support. Our team provides immediate advocacy, safety planning, case management, and access to free, confidential counseling services. SART is a multi-disciplinary team comprised of local community partners and AWARE, working collaboratively to provide comprehensive support for survivors. With a victim-centered and offender-focused approach, we are here to ensure survivors feel safe, supported, and informed every step of the way. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, SART is dedicated to guiding you through the healing and justice process.
Supporting Sexual Assault Survivors
- Advocacy and Support: Survivors have the opportunity of accessing an advocate for immediate on-scene crisis response at the hospital or after calling 911. Advocates may offer immediate and continued support during a medical forensic exam and explain the process of the early stages of the criminal justice process.
- Victim-Centered, Offender-Focused Approach: Ensure a response that prioritizes the survivor’s well-being while maintaining accountability for offenders.
- Safety and Case Management: Address immediate safety concerns, assist with case management, and ensure survivors feel safe and informed.
- Free Trauma Counseling Referrals: Offer access to trauma counseling services, completely free and confidential.
Understanding Rape Trauma Syndrome
Rape Trauma Syndrome (RTS) is a form of post-traumatic stress disorder that can develop after a sexual assault. Survivors may experience symptoms such as anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, social withdrawal, mood swings, and self-blame. This trauma moves through different stages without a set timeline, and each survivor’s journey is unique.
The Three Phases of RTS
- Acute Phase: Immediately following the assault, survivors may feel shock, denial, or extreme emotional distress. Memory gaps are common and normal.
- Outward Adjustment: In this phase, survivors might appear outwardly unaffected while struggling internally. This phase can last for months or even years, and often includes isolation and the development of coping mechanisms.
- Resolution/Integration: The final stage involves coming to terms with the trauma. While survivors may not forget, they work towards acceptance and validation. This process can be non-linear and often requires strong social support and trauma-informed counseling.
How to Support a Loved One with RTS
- Listen and validate their feelings.
- Avoid pressuring or shaming them.
- Encourage them to seek help.
706 W. Michigan Avenue
Jackson, MI 49201
© AWARE | Part of the Rooted Pixels Network