The Tampa Bay nonprofit Veterans Counseling Veterans (VCV) continues its mission to help service members heal from the trauma of sexual assault with its third annual Military Sexual Trauma Summit, held April 5–7 at the University of South Florida. The event, focused on awareness, connection, and healing, brings together veterans, families, and mental health professionals to discuss the impact of military sexual trauma (MST). For those affected, resources like therapy, community, and legal support from professionals such as our Florida military sexual trauma lawyer can make a powerful difference in recovery and justice.
Founded by U.S. Army veteran Ellsworth “Tony” Williams, VCV was created to fill a gap in available resources for military sexual assault survivors. After 24 years of service, Williams realized that many veterans lacked access to programs that addressed the emotional and psychological toll of MST. The summit, now in its third year, serves as a bridge between veterans and mental health support, offering panels, workshops, and safe spaces for survivors and their families.
Last year’s summit emphasized healing within the family unit. Williams, who witnessed firsthand how unresolved trauma can affect relationships, invites family members to participate alongside veterans. He believes that healing must extend beyond the individual to repair the ripple effects of trauma within households. In addition to veterans and their families, the summit welcomes advocates, mental health providers, and anyone supporting service members.
One of the returning participants, former U.S. Army sergeant Christy Hinnant, shared her powerful story at previous summits and now returns as a panelist. After surviving a sexual assault during her military service and battling years of shame and PTSD, she founded V.O.I.C.E.S. Against Sexual Assault, a nonprofit that supports survivors of military sexual violence. “There’s power in your story,” Hinnant says, explaining that breaking the silence helps survivors find courage and connection.
By creating a platform where veterans can share their experiences openly, VCV’s summit helps combat stigma and isolation. Many participants describe it as a lifeline, offering not only emotional healing but also practical guidance toward recovery.
Legal Support For Military Sexual Trauma Survivors
While programs like the MST Summit provide essential emotional and community support, survivors of military sexual assault may also need legal guidance to secure their benefits and protect their rights. Working with our Florida military sexual trauma attorneys can help make sure that veterans receive the compensation and recognition they deserve for the harm they’ve endured.
Military sexual trauma often results in conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. Filing for VA disability benefits related to MST can be complicated, requiring medical documentation and credible testimony. That’s why many survivors turn to professionals like our VA MST lawyers who specialize in connecting these experiences to service-related conditions.
At Glover Luck LLP, our experienced VA disability lawyers for MST understand the unique barriers that veterans face when filing claims or appeals related to MST. As proud members of Texas Lawyers for Texas Veterans, we make sure that veterans’ voices are heard, especially when it comes to sexual abuse cases. We offer free consultations to anyone in need. Additionally, our 24/7 call line allows potential clients to reach out at any time of day or night. If you require legal guidance, don’t wait to get in touch.
Just as advocates like Tony Williams and Christy Hinnant work to empower survivors through awareness and education, our military sexual assault attorneys are committed to empowering veterans through justice. If you or someone you love has suffered from military sexual trauma, our Florida military sexual trauma lawyers can guide you through the process of obtaining the benefits and accountability you deserve.
Contact Glover Luck LLP today to learn how we can help you file your VA claim, appeal a denial, or take legal steps toward closure and recovery. You don’t have to face this journey alone—support and advocacy are here when you’re ready.
