Restore NYC Unveils Innovative Report on Mental Health Needs for Human Trafficking Survivors

Groundbreaking Insights on Mental Health for Human Trafficking Survivors

Restore NYC, an organization dedicated to supporting survivors of human trafficking, has recently released a comprehensive report titled "Beyond Trauma: The Role of Mental Healthcare in the Post-Trafficking Journey of Adult Survivors." This report emerges during Human Trafficking Awareness Month and aims to address the pressing mental health needs of a staggering number of survivors.

The Mental Health Crisis Among Survivors

Statistics reveal a troubling reality: approximately 75% of human trafficking survivors identify trauma-informed mental health care as their most critical need following their exit from exploitation. This underscores the necessity for specialized therapeutic support tailored to their unique experiences. However, as noted in the report, there is a significant shortage of qualified therapists who understand the complexities of trafficking dynamics. This gap is critical, as survivors often face numerous challenges post-exploitation, including difficulties in maintaining stable housing, securing employment, and developing supportive social networks.

The report outlines that among the estimated 1,090,000 individuals impacted by trafficking in the United States, 96% experience at least one psychological issue after escaping their situations, with 21% having attempted suicide. These alarming figures emphasize the urgency with which mental health services need to be integrated into survivor support programs.

Proposed Solutions to Bridge the Gap

Beck Sullivan, the CEO of Restore NYC, emphasizes the report's ambition to pave the way toward actionable solutions. “Survivors are clear about what they need. The expertise exists, but what’s missing is the infrastructure, funding, and trained workforce to deliver these services at scale. With coordinated investment and commitment to survivor-centered care, we can ensure every survivor has access to the specialized therapeutic support essential to their healing and long-term freedom.”

To address this critical situation, the report identifies ten evidence-based, feasible strategies aimed at improving access to mental health care for survivors. These strategies are informed by the insights of both survivor experts and mental health practitioners, focusing on bridging the existing gaps in service provision.

Community Engagement and Future Steps

Sandra Diaz, Restore NYC's Director of Impact and Evaluation, who authored the report, shares her insight: "75% of survivors say mental health is their top need when exiting trafficking. While qualified therapists are scarce, this report presents ten actionable approaches to help bridge that critical gap. I am incredibly proud of this report and hopeful for the transformative potential it holds for support systems aimed at survivors' healing journeys."

Restore NYC will hold a special webinar on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at noon EST, allowing participants to learn more about the report's findings and take part in actionable discussions on implementing survivor-centered practices. Registration for this informative event is available at restorenyc.org/events, where the executive summary of the report can also be accessed at restorenyc.org/reports.

About Restore NYC

Restore NYC is dedicated to making freedom a tangible reality for survivors of human trafficking. Their approach encompasses safe housing, trauma-informed care, and economic empowerment, all designed with respect for the dignity, agency, and long-term stability of survivors. In recognition of their exceptional efforts, Restore NYC received the Presidential Award for Extraordinary Efforts to Combat Trafficking in Persons in 2024. The organization serves survivors throughout New York City, aiming to create a supportive and empowering environment for recovery and rehabilitation.

To learn more about their work and initiatives, visit restorenyc.org.