Get the help that you need

If you are here, you have taken a step in the right direction to getting help for yourself or someone you believe might be a victim of abuse. Please realize abuse occurs in different relationships and places, despite gender, age, race, religion, financial status, employment status, and education.

TO REPORT ABUSE

If you suspect a child in your life is being sexually abused, The Hub, Larimer County’s multi-agency hotline, is available to take your confidential report, 24 hours a day, at (970) 498-6990.

Child abuse can be physical, sexual, verbal, or emotional. If you think a child is being abused, it is your responsibility to report it as soon as possible. Time can be a crucial factor in reporting child abuse.

PROGRAMS AND GROUPS

Programs and treatments for victims of sexual abuse whether the situation involves a child or teen who has been sexually abused or is being sexually abused now or an adult who was abused as a child.

All groups and classes are being offered free of charge by ChildSafe Colorado therapists with specialized training in trauma recovery specific to sexual abuse survivors and their families.​

WARNING SIGNS of possible sexual abuse

Understanding or determining what child abuse is can be difficult and confusing. Abuse affects children differently. However, there are some behavioral and physical signs that if consistent, can be recognized as warning signs for child abuse.​

Any one sign doesn’t mean that a child was sexually abused, but the presence of several suggests that you begin asking questions and consider seeking help. Keep in mind that some of these signs can emerge at other times of stress, such as: during a divorce; death of a family member or pet; problems at school or with friends; and other anxiety-inducing or traumatic events. If you are unsure or have questions about a child’s behavior or something you might have witnessed, ChildSafe Colorado can help you decide which action to take.

Resource: StopItNow.org

  • Has nightmares or other sleep problems without an explanation
  • Seems distracted or distant at odd times
  • Has a sudden change in eating habits
  • Refuses to eat
  • Loses or drastically increases appetite
  • Has trouble swallowing
  • Sudden mood swings: rage, fear, insecurity or withdrawal
  • Leaves “clues” that seem likely to provoke a discussion about sexual issues
  • Writes, draws, plays or dreams of sexual or frightening images
  • Develops new or unusual fear of certain people or places
  • Refuses to talk about a secret shared with an adult or older child
  • Talks about a new older friend
  • Suddenly has money, toys or other gifts without reason
  • Thinks of self or body as repulsive, dirty or bad
  • Exhibits adult-like sexual behaviors, language and knowledge
  • An older child behaving like a younger child (such as bed-wetting or thumb sucking)
  • Has new words for private body parts
  • Resists removing clothes when appropriate times (bath, bed, toileting, diapering)
  • Asks other children to behave sexually or play sexual games
  • Mimics adult-like sexual behaviors with toys or stuffed animal
  • Wetting and soiling accidents unrelated to toilet training
  • Self-injury (cutting, burning)
  • Inadequate personal hygiene
  • Drug and alcohol abuse
  • Sexual promiscuity
  • Running away from home
  • Depression, anxiety
  • Suicide attempts
  • Fear of intimacy or closeness
  • Compulsive eating or dieting

Physical signs of sexual abuse are rare.  If you see these signs, bring your child to a doctor. Your doctor can help you understand what may be happening and test for sexually transmitted diseases.

REDUCE THE CHANCES

Open communication is a powerful tool when it comes to preventing any kind of child abuse and reducing the chances of it happening. The more educated and comfortable children are, the better communication will be. Plus, there are small steps you can take in everyday routines to protect children from sexual abuse.

SPEAK TO CHILDSAFE

If you have questions about a child’s behavior and whether there may be cause for concern, call ChildSafe Colorado at (970) 472-4133.

Our staff can offer support and guidance to help you determine if a child or adult may need professional help. We can discuss our services and what to expect if you choose to report abuse or neglect. If ChildSafe Colorado isn’t the right resource for your situation, we can connect you with appropriate referrals.

ChildSafe Colorado therapists are Mandated Reporters, so if you give us information that a child is even suspected of being abused, we’re required by law to make an immediate report to the Department of Human Services. Don’t worry—your identity will remain confidential.

We’re here to help you through this process by providing support, education, and therapy for you, your child, and your family.