The State of Aftercare: A Critical Look at the Response to Victims of Human Sex Trafficking in the United States

This study explored the services available to survivors of sex trafficking in the United States. Thirty organizations completed an online survey addressing the needs of the survivors who accessed their services, and how they addressed survivors\u27 psychological, sexual, substance abuse, legal, educational and vocational, spiritual, and physical needs. The findings provided descriptions of the complex needs of trafficking survivors when they seek help, and the types and forms of services available to address those needs. Results showed how few programs are providing direct services and highlighted the challenge for survivors to get their needs met if they are in an area without any services that are sensitive to their unique needs. The study described service provision for each need category and made recommendations for outcome research and development of trafficking sensitive interventions for each area of need. While the participating programs reported many strengths and successes, they also commented on challenges, including the necessity for more funding and well-trained professionals in various disciplines to provide services to their clients. The field of aftercare services for victims of human sex trafficking in the Unites States is relatively new, but growing, making this an ideal time to research and strengthen intervention. Findings from the current study can inform future research regarding more effective models of care and encourage professionals across disciplines to become educated in survivors\u27 complex needs