Carnegie Mellon

Sexual Assault Advisors

Sexual Assault is a trauma that no one needs to face alone. The Sexual Assault Advisors, a team of staff, students, and faculty who are trained to work with survivors of sexual assault, are here to provide non-judgmental support, resource information, and referrals. Whether you are a survivor, or you would like to help a friend or loved one, you are welcome to call us at any time. This service is available to all members of the campus community, male or female, regardless of when the incident happened. All information is kept strictly confidential (what’s this?). A list of current advisors and their contact information is available online or in the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs in 301 Warner Hall. If you would like more information about the group, please email saadvise@andrew.cmu.edu.

The Sexual Assault Advisors have been serving the campus community since 1991 and are available to talk with survivors about their experiences and explore local resources so that survivors might take steps toward recovery including professional support from a counselor, psychiatrist, or therapist. They are available to help a survivor organize her or his thoughts, provide comfort and relief, and help to regain the feeling of being in control. Advisors are knowledgeable about legal issues, medical treatment, and emotional support. They give survivors control over the process and allow her or him to make decisions about how to proceed. Sexual Assault Advisors are available to assist in seeking other resources.

What’s This?

All sexual assault advisors sign a statement of confidentiality upon completion of their training.  The document acknowledges the sensitive information that they may encounter and requires their commitment to abide by the training guidelines.

Additionally, information that is shared with a sexual assault advisor may not be kept entirely confidential.  For example, referrals to on or off campus health facilities and counseling, as well as community agencies might be helpful to the survivor.  In the event that other resources are needed, the survivor would be advised and involved in any disclosure of information.