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WHO WE ARE

 

A nonprofit built by a survivor, powered by lived experience.​

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"We grew from the need to bring the stories of lived experts out of the shadows — and into the systems, policies, and conversations that protect children."

Colleen Mullowney - Founder SSTA AWARE

THE PROBLEM WE ARE SOLVING

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SSTA affects millions — yet remains
invisible in the systems meant to help.

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Sibling Sexual Trauma and Abuse affects millions of children and families, yet it remains largely absent from public awareness, policy frameworks, professional training, and prevention programs. The people and systems designed to protect children often don't have the language, tools, or training to address it.

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This is not a gap at the edges of the child protection system. It is a gap at the center of it.

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SSTA AWARE exists to close these gaps — through awareness, education, partnership, and advocacy.

Our Team

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Colleen Mullowney

Founder

Colleen Mullowney is a lived experience expert and advocate dedicated to bringing awareness, education, and prevention resources to the issue of Sibling Sexual Trauma and Abuse (SSTA). Colleen developed a 45-minute introductory presentation combining personal story with education on SSTA — and has since expanded her work to include the ONE WORD Initiative, professional development courses, coalition-building, and strategic advocacy. With a Master’s in Psychology from Antioch University in Los Angeles, she is the international representative for Brave Movement's USA National Platform. Colleen is a certified instructor in ECHO Training and Education and a facilitator for the nationally awarded Darkness to Light, Stewards of Children. 

Michael Cunningham 

Finance

Melissa Marlowe

Research

Naina Chandel

Soical Media
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A MESSAGE FROM THE FOUNDER

My journey with Sibling Sexual Trauma/Abuse started before I was born. I believe that one of the driving forces behind the SSTA in my home was the existence of generational trauma in my family system. My parents' inability to meet the emotional needs of their children, coupled with their age, their own unmet emotional needs, and historical family trauma, left my brother and me in a home that lacked healthy boundaries, consistency, or proper supervision. For years, I lived in fear and shame, hiding the trauma of my childhood. Besieged by a lifetime of dysfunctional coping mechanisms, I found I could no longer manage my life, and finally sought help. 

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I have been telling my story to friends and family for the last 25 years to process and free myself from the shame that silenced me for the first 30. Today, I tell my story to shine a light on this silent epidemic and give others hope.

 

Over the years, my goal has always been the same: to grow, heal, and give space for others to feel seen and heard. As I advocate for myself, I advocate for you.  Wherever you are, know that there is a community of people who have walked in your shoes and understand your pain. You are not alone.

With Gratitude, 

Colleen Mullowney Psy. M.

Become an Ally

SSTA AWARE is proud to collaborate with the following organizations.

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