Sometimes it feels like you need to give advice, but it’s often more valuable to help people think through what they want to happen.  Then, you can brainstorm together about what to do.

Below are some steps Corey might want to take.  Click on each to learn more about the options and resources.

• Corey wants to talk to someone, but is concerned about who else may find out and what would happen next.

  While all of Yale's resources follow strict confidentiality policies, it’s not unusual for people to be concerned about revealing such personal matters.  Often the SHARE Center is the most comfortable place to start.  As mental health professionals and certified crisis counselors, the SHARE staff provides information, advocacy, and support. SHARE works with people to help them receive whatever ongoing assistance they need.

  Corey could also turn to a Title IX coordinator, a member of the University-Wide Committee on Sexual Misconduct, or the Yale Police for a confidential conversation.  These conversations would not commit Corey to any action.  No matter which office Corey contacts, the staff will be able to discuss the full range of options and facilitate whatever steps Corey decides to take.  Corey may choose to start the conversation with other Yale resources or even an outside resource.  There is no wrong place to start.

• Corey wants to talk to someone about safety concerns.

  The Yale Police Department is usually the best resource when someone feels unsafe.  Their Sensitive Crimes and Support Coordinator can help Corey create a personalized safety plan and explore options for action.  Alternatively, if Corey prefers, a SHARE Center counselor or a Title IX coordinator can help.

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• Corey wants to avoid interactions with the other person.

  Corey could talk with a Title IX coordinator about setting up a no contact agreement for academic, residential, or work situations.  In the absence of a formal complaint, such arrangements are voluntary, but they can still be quite effective.  In some cases, a YPD officer can warn the other person to avoid further contact, or help Corey seek a judicial protective order.

• Corey needs help dealing with the impact on academic or work activities, or wants to change residential or work assignments.

  A Title IX Coordinator could offer Corey 'accommodations': direct help in addressing the practical challenges that can arise following an experience of sexual misconduct. For example, a Title IX Coordinator might be able to assist in making modifications to an academic or professional assignment.  Accommodations are based on the specifics of a situation, and many can be made while preserving confidentiality.  Some accommodations may require a Title IX coordinator to work discretely with University personnel such as academic deans, faculty members, human resources staff, or housing staff. In such cases, the coordinator would work through the details of those communications with Corey in advance.

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• Corey wants someone to speak with the other person about the behavior.

  If Corey wants, a Title IX coordinator can meet with the other person to discuss the reported behavior and its impact.  In talking with the other person, the coordinator would go over the University's policies and expectations for conduct.  Coordinators can also suggest opportunities for further training or counseling.

• Corey wants to pursue a formal disciplinary complaint.

  Filing a disciplinary complaint is always possible, whether or not Corey has already tried other informal options.

  The University-Wide Committee on Sexual Misconduct uses formal procedures and employs impartial fact-finders to conduct interviews and gather information.  These procedures can result in discipline. In certain cases involving staff members discipline is addressed by Human Resources.

  Corey could also file a criminal complaint with the Yale Police or New Haven Police.  This is an option for any instance of sexual misconduct that could constitute a crime, such as stalking, sexual assault, or intimate partner violence.

  For any of these processes, a Title IX Coordinator or SHARE counselor could provide assistance.