By: Elizabeth Meyer, Counseling Program Coordinator

Since 2004, Greenlight Counseling, formerly known as Porchlight Counseling Services, has been addressing the dangers and difficulties faced by women and men who have been sexually assaulted while on college campuses. Too often, survivors struggle to regain a sense of control in their lives. Through counseling and advocacy, Greenlight Counseling clears the path for survivors on their journey to healing and wholeness.
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The importance of Greenlight’s counseling program cannot be overlooked. 1 in 4 women and 1 in 14 men experience sexual assault during their college years. Recognizing this huge need for survivor services and support, Greenlight Counseling exists to help those survivors begin healing from that trauma. As a program, Greenlight connects students with counselors who specialize in working with survivors of sexual assault for 20 free sessions of therapy.

“I was working with a therapist who seemed uncomfortable talking to me about my assault experience, and I felt like I couldn’t fully express myself in sessions. My friend told me about Greenlight and I felt so much relief knowing there were services specifically for people in my situation” says student Anne*, who has been working with a Greenlight therapist for the past few months.

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Greenlight partners with therapists all over the city and in suburbs who specialize in working with survivors of sexual assault. Greenlight therapist Anne Pothour has worked with the program since 2017 and has a background working with survivors of trauma. She says Greenlight creates a safe, nonjudgmental space for students to get support. “The program helps people get grounded and figure out next steps, whatever that might be for them.” This year has created unique challenges for students but Greenlight has tried to meet students where they’re at and ensure continued awareness and access for services. We’ve been able to set up virtual workshops with students and have pivoted services with our therapists remotely to telehealth. As the new program coordinator, I started during the pandemic and have seen the importance of flexibility and creativity in these uncertain times. Now more than ever, we recognize the need for mental health support and the importance of these services.
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* Student’s name has been changed to protect their privacy.