Taking the step to meet with a Confidential Advocate is an act of immense courage. The Advocate recognizes the weight of that trust and is committed to making the first interaction feel safe, manageable, and transparent as possible. In this space, the individual is the expert on their own needs; the Advocate’s role is not to lead, but to walk alongside them.
A first meeting will begin with a clear explanation of your rights, options and how your confidentiality is protected, and ends with a collaborative plan on what, if anything, you would like to do next.
Self-Paced Support, Disclosure is Always Optional
The pace of the meeting is entirely up to the person seeking support. An initial introduction can be a brief check-in to see if the partnership feels like a good fit, or a longer session to explore specific needs and resources. The Advocate will never push you to share more than you are ready to.
While the Advocate is here to listen to a story whenever someone is ready to tell it, disclosing the details of an experience is never a requirement for receiving support. Many people prefer to focus on their current needs, rather than on what happened. The time can be spent entirely on managing symptoms, securing accommodations, or discussing rights and safety options.
At the same time, surviving interpersonal violence can be confusing and involve heavy feelings of self-blame. The Advocate provides a dedicated, judgment-free space to unpack those pieces of your story with empathy and understanding.
About the Environment
Meetings can be held in the Advocate's private office located within the Student Health and Counseling Services building, or virtually via Zoom or a phone call from the privacy of your own home. If you are visiting in person, simply check in with the front desk and they will have the Advocate meet you in the lobby.
Everyone is encouraged to make the space their own. You are welcome to bring anything that helps you feel grounded, such as a trusted friend, a favorite warm drink, or a fidget toy. Whether you arrive with a journal full of notes or are unsure where to start, you are welcome exactly as you are.