THE BRAVE MODEL© Responding to Disclosures of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence with Care.
THE BRAVE MODEL©
We are B.R.A.V.E. Together.
The BRAVE Model© for responding to disclosures of sexual and gender-based violence was created by educator, survivor, and advocate Farrah Khan in 1998, making it one, if not the first, tool of its kind in Canada. Honed over more than two decades, this innovative framework has become a vital model for fostering trauma-informed, compassionate responses to disclosures of sexual and gender-based violence.
Grounded in extensive research and community consultation, the BRAVE Model© has driven meaningful dialogue, community care, and positive change across Canadian institutions, including post-secondary institutions, sports organizations, government departments, and universities.
Farrah’s expertise as an educator, counsellor, and consultant has continuously refined the model over the past two decades. For the past decade, she has further developed the BRAVE Model© specifically for post-secondary institutions during her leadership of Courage to Act—the first national initiative addressing gender-based violence on post-secondary campuses. Research from this initiative highlighted a significant need for educational resources to support campus community members in responding to disclosures of sexual and gender-based violence. Farrah worked with student leaders, staff, faculty, and survivors to refine the tool and ensure it met the community's needs.
Farrah has trained hundreds of communities, businesses, organizations, schools, and institutions on the BRAVE Model©, equipping them with practical tools and self-care strategies to respond to disclosures of sexual or gender-based violence effectively. The BRAVE Model© is an opportunity for anyone, regardless of their training or expertise, to provide empathetic, trauma-informed, and survivor-centred support, ensuring those who disclose feel heard, validated, and supported
The BRAVE© model is a registered trademark of Farrah Khan. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution of the BRAVE© model without Farrah Khan's explicit permission is strictly prohibited and protected by law.
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Healing Comes in Waves, Episode Two: Supporting a Survivor as a Parent
This resource focuses on how parents can support children who disclose sexual violence, addressing intergenerational trauma and self-care.A Guide for Friends and Family of Survivors of Sexual Assault
Provides practical support strategies for friends and family, with self-care tips for both survivors and supporters.How to Support a Loved One (Joyful Heart Foundation)
Offers concrete steps for supporting a loved one through disclosure, including creating a safe environment and emotional support.
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Supporting Survivors: A Guide to Self-Care and Support (NSVRC)
A comprehensive guide for self-care strategies while supporting survivors, emphasizing emotional well-being for both survivors and supporters.Supporting a Survivor: What to Do (RAINN)
A practical guide for how to respond compassionately when someone discloses sexual violence, emphasizing listening and referring to professional support.How to Support a Sexual Assault Survivor (Crisis Text Line)
Focuses on emotional support techniques, including what to say and what to avoid when supporting a survivor.
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Allies in Healing by Laura Davis
An essential book for those supporting loved ones who have survived childhood sexual abuse, offering practical advice and self-care strategies.