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Millicent Starnes Recovery Institute

Raising the Standard of Care for Survivors.

Trauma-informed education, professional training, and crisis navigation — building a global movement rooted in evidence-based care and long-term restoration.

"Redefining Recovery After Sexual Violence."

— Millicent Starnes

Women survivors thriving
13+
Years of Advocacy
Over a decade of frontline survivor support, crisis response, and professional training.
3+
Sectors Trained
Faith communities, schools, universities, and correctional facilities nationwide.
2024
Institute Founded
A bold, survivor-led institute where advocacy, education, and restoration intersect.
Nationally Accredited
HarvardX Certified
NACP Certified
Trauma-Informed Education
Survivor-Led Institute
Our Mission

Transforming how the world approaches healing from sexual violence.

The Millicent Starnes Recovery Institute exists to end sexual violence and transform survivor care through trauma-informed education, professional training, and crisis navigation.

We are committed to empowering individuals, institutions, and communities to respond to sexual abuse trauma with integrity, empathy, and excellence — especially in cases involving severe, complex, or underserved survivors.

Our Commitment

What We Stand For

Survivor leadership in every area of recovery
Trauma-informed, culturally competent, and faith-based care
Advocating for justice, accountability, and systemic change
Creating safe spaces where survivors are not only heard — but healed
No trauma is too severe for hope, healing, and transformation
Those who serve survivors must be trained with integrity, empathy, and truth
Who We Train & Serve

Equipping professionals. Empowering survivors.

Victim Advocates

Equipping frontline advocates with trauma-informed tools and 40-hour foundational certification.

Mental Health Professionals

Specialized training for therapists and mental health providers serving survivors of complex trauma.

Faith Leaders & Clergy

Faith-informed training that equips clergy to support survivors with integrity and compassion.

Medical & Legal Professionals

Evidence-based education for healthcare providers, attorneys, and justice system professionals.

Online learning at MSRI Academy
MSRI Academy — Online & Accessible

Learn from anywhere.
Transform your practice.

"Whether you're a survivor seeking hope or a professional seeking excellence — MSRI Academy is built for you."

All MSR Institute training programs are delivered virtually — giving advocates, clinicians, faith leaders, and professionals across the country access to world-class, trauma-informed education from wherever they are.

Self-paced. Evidence-based. Survivor-led.

Begin Today

"You don't have to have everything figured out. You just need a place to begin."

— Millicent Starnes, Founder

Whether you are a survivor, a professional, or a community leader — MSR Institute is where innovative education meets transformative healing.

W
MAN
OWNED

MSR Institute · Founded by Millicent Starnes · 2024

About MSR Institute

Founded With a Vision to Transform Advocate Education.

The Millicent Starnes Recovery Institute was founded in 2024 by nationally accredited victim advocate Millicent Starnes — turning more than a decade of frontline advocacy into a bold, survivor-led institute where education, advocacy, and restoration intersect.

Founded
2024

By nationally accredited victim advocate Millicent Starnes

Millicent Starnes
Millicent Starnes
Founder & CEO, MSR Institute · Sexual Violence Prevention Specialist
13+
Years Advocating
2024
Institute Founded
3+
Sectors Trained
Meet the Founder

Millicent Starnes

Millicent Starnes is the Founder and CEO of the Millicent Starnes Recovery Institute (MSR Institute), a trauma-informed education and crisis navigation organization dedicated to transforming how individuals, professionals, and systems respond to sexual violence.

She is a nationally accredited victim advocate with over a decade of experience supporting survivors of sexual violence, domestic abuse, and complex sexual violence trauma. Known for her direct, justice-centered approach, Millicent specializes in high-risk and complex cases — including re-victimization, coercive control, and severe forms of sexual abuse that are often misunderstood or mishandled by traditional systems.

As a Sexual Violence Prevention & Women's Protection Specialist, she equips survivors, professionals, and communities with the tools to recognize danger, respond effectively, and pursue both healing and justice. Her work bridges the gap between survivor care, professional training, and systems-level change.

Millicent is also the founder of Her Voice Matters, a nonprofit organization focused on long-term recovery, rehabilitation, and justice support for survivors of sexual violence. Through both organizations, she is building a comprehensive model that integrates education, advocacy, and restoration.

She holds a certification from HarvardX in Child Protection: Children's Rights in Theory and Practice, is NACP certified, has studied education at Eastern University, and majored in Pre-Law at Liberty University. Millicent is also a published author, committed to raising the standard of care for survivors, equipping the next generation of professionals, and contributing to a future where violence against women is no longer tolerated.

"What began as one woman's vision is now a growing movement to transform how the world sees, hears, and heals survivors of sexual violence."

— Millicent Starnes

Nationally Accredited Advocate NACP Certified HarvardX Certified Sexual Violence Specialist Author Survivor-Led
Our Core Beliefs

MSR Institute is built on these foundations.

Restoration
Survivors deserve more than survival — they deserve full restoration.
Excellence
Education is a frontline defense against injustice.
Hope
No trauma is too severe for hope, healing, and transformation.
Integrity
Those who serve survivors must be trained with integrity, empathy, and truth.
Our History & Vision

From One Woman's Vision to a National Movement.

After more than a decade working in the trenches of advocacy, crisis response, and survivor care, Millicent recognized a heartbreaking reality: survivors were often left without the proper education, support, or systems needed to effectively heal.

Our long-term vision: a full-service trauma recovery center that will serve as a national model for survivor-led, holistic healing.

2010+

Over a Decade of Advocacy

Millicent begins her journey in frontline advocacy, crisis response, and survivor support.

Prior

Co-Founded Naomi's House of Hope

An organization serving survivors of domestic violence, where the need for specialized care became clear.

2024

MSR Institute Launched

A bold, survivor-led institute where advocacy, education, and restoration intersect.

Now

Growing National Movement

Training professionals, equipping advocates, and building toward a full recovery center.

Future

National Recovery Center

A full-service trauma recovery center — a national model for survivor-led, holistic healing.

Join the Movement

Rooted in faith. Fueled by justice.

Training & Programs

Bring MSR Institute Training to Your Organization.

MSR Institute delivers professional, trauma-informed training on sexual violence education, prevention, and survivor support — directly to your workplace, church, school, healthcare team, law enforcement agency, or community organization.

Who We Train

We come to you — wherever your team is.

On-site and virtual sexual violence education and prevention training for organizations of all sizes across a wide range of industries and communities.

Faith Communities

Churches, mosques, synagogues and faith organizations — equipping leaders to support survivors with compassion and integrity.

Businesses & Corporations

Workplace training on trauma-informed practices and supporting employees who are survivors.

Schools & Universities

Staff, faculty and student training on sexual violence prevention and creating safe campus environments.

Healthcare & Medical

Trauma-informed care training for hospitals, clinics, and medical professionals.

Law Enforcement & Legal

Specialized training on trauma-informed interviewing and survivor rights.

Nonprofits & Community Orgs

Capacity building for organizations that serve vulnerable populations.

Mental Health & Social Services

Advanced training for therapists, counselors, and social workers serving survivors.

Correctional Facilities

Specialized programs for correctional staff serving incarcerated survivors.

Training Formats

Flexible formats designed to fit your organization.

On-Site Training

Millicent comes directly to your location to deliver live, in-person training tailored to your team.

Virtual Training

Live, interactive training delivered online. Accessible for remote teams or organizations outside your local area.

Custom Workshops

Half-day or full-day workshops designed specifically around your organization's unique needs and goals.

Request a Training

Bring MSR Institute to your organization.

Fill out the form and Millicent will personally follow up to discuss your organization's needs, training goals, and scheduling.

Training available for groups of 5 to 500+

On-site and virtual options available nationwide

All sessions customized to your team's specific needs

Certificates of completion available for participants

Pricing varies based on group size, format, and duration

"Together, we can rise against rape culture and build communities that truly support survivors."

— Millicent Starnes

Training Request Form

We will respond within 2 business days.

All inquiries are confidential. We respond within 2 business days.

Let's Work Together

Ready to bring trauma-informed training to your team?

MSRI Academy

Something Powerful Is Coming.

MSRI Academy — our online learning and certification platform — is currently in development. We are building something transformative for advocates, educators, and professionals who serve survivors.

What's Coming

Professional certifications & training — online, self-paced, and nationally recognized.

40-Hour Advocacy Certification

A comprehensive, nationally recognized certification for new and developing victim advocates.

Faith Community Training

Specialized training for clergy and faith leaders to support survivors with integrity and care.

Specialized Certifications

Programs for youth mentorship, LGBTQ+ advocacy, correctional facilities, and CEU-accredited courses.

Stay in the Loop

Be the first to know when MSRI Academy launches.

Join our notification list and we'll reach out the moment enrollment opens.

Crisis Navigation Consulting

Specialized support for survivors of sexual violence and domestic violence.

"Clear guidance when everything feels overwhelming." MSR Institute provides trauma-informed crisis navigation and advocacy consulting — practical, confidential, and designed specifically for survivors facing complex, high-stakes situations.

Woman needing support
Who This Is For

You don't have to navigate this alone.

MSR Institute provides specialized crisis navigation consulting for individuals and families who have experienced sexual violence or domestic violence and need focused, practical guidance to move forward safely.

This service is not therapy or legal advice. It is practical, confidential, trauma-informed advocacy support focused on clarity, safety, and direction.

We Help With

Situations we specialize in:

  • Sexual violence and sexual assault navigation
  • Domestic violence and intimate partner abuse
  • Stalking and coercive control situations
  • Post-assault or post-incident decision-making
  • Court, protection order, or legal process confusion
  • Medical, school, workplace, or faith-based system involvement
  • Safety concerns affecting children or family stability
  • Severe, prolonged, or complex trauma cases

"No one should have to navigate the hardest moment of their life alone."

— Millicent Starnes, Founder

Investment in Your Safety

You are not paying for your trauma. You are investing in expert guidance through it.

We believe no survivor should be turned away due to finances.

Session 01
Advocacy Strategy Session
$200
90 minutes · Virtual · Confidential

Focused guidance for navigating courts, institutions, documentation, and complex systems.

  • Clarify goals and priorities
  • Understand systems and risks
  • Build a documentation strategy
  • Prepare for upcoming decisions
Most Requested
Crisis Navigation Session
$225
90 minutes · Virtual · Confidential

For those in the middle of a crisis — overwhelmed, needing practical trauma-informed support.

  • Immediate crisis clarity and next steps
  • Safety planning guidance
  • System navigation support
  • Calm, client-directed approach
Priority Access
Emergency Same-Day Session
$275
90 minutes · Same-Day · Virtual

For those who cannot wait. Priority booking for expert crisis navigation the same day.

  • Same-day priority scheduling
  • Immediate crisis support
  • Full 90-minute session
  • All navigation services included
Ongoing Support
Ongoing Advocacy Support
$120
Monthly Retainer · Client-Directed

For those navigating extended, complex situations over time. Consistent guidance and steady support.

  • Continued crisis navigation
  • Court date preparation
  • Documentation support
  • Priority scheduling
Access & Affordability

No one should be turned away because of finances.

We understand that survivors often face significant financial hardship. MSR Institute is committed to ensuring that cost is never a permanent barrier to accessing support.

We offer a sliding scale for those with financial hardship, and a limited number of fully funded scholarship sessions each month.

Sliding Scale & Scholarship Tiers
Full Rate
For those who are able to pay standard rate
$200–$275
Sliding Scale
For those experiencing financial hardship
$50–$150
Scholarship
2–3 spots per month
Free
Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about crisis navigation support.

What is crisis navigation? +
Crisis navigation is practical, trauma-informed support for people who feel overwhelmed and unsure what to do next after domestic violence, sexual violence, stalking, or other high-risk situations.
Is this therapy or counseling? +
No. This service is not therapy or counseling. We do not diagnose, treat, or provide mental health services. Our work focuses on practical guidance and informed decision-making.
Is this legal advice? +
No. We do not provide legal advice or legal representation. We can help you understand processes and prepare questions so you can make informed decisions with legal professionals.
Is this service confidential? +
Yes. Sessions are confidential, with limited exceptions required by law. Sessions are not recorded, and minimal notes are kept for continuity only.
Do you work with complex cases? +
Yes. This service is specifically designed to support individuals navigating severe, prolonged, or complex situations — including cases involving multiple systems or repeated victimization.
Do you take insurance? +
At this time, MSR Institute operates as a private-pay service. Sliding scale and scholarship options are available for those with financial need.
How do I book a session? +
Sessions are booked through our contact form with payment required at time of scheduling. If cost is a barrier, reach out to inquire about sliding scale or scholarship availability first.
What are scholarship sessions? +
We reserve 2–3 fully funded scholarship sessions each month for survivors who truly cannot pay. To inquire, contact us confidentially. All requests are handled with full dignity and discretion.
Ready to Begin?

"You don't have to have everything figured out. You just need a place to begin."

— Millicent Starnes, Founder

Contact MSR Institute

We are here to help. Reach out today.

Whether you have questions about our programs, want to book a session, or are interested in bringing training to your organization — we would love to hear from you.

Send Us a Message

We respond to all inquiries within 24 business hours.

Phone
414-676-5177
Email
msri@millicentstarnesrecovery.org
All correspondence is confidential
Location
Virtual — Nationwide
All sessions conducted virtually. Training available nationwide.

Not sure where to start?

"You don't have to have everything figured out. You just need a place to begin." — Millicent Starnes

⚠ If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or the National DV Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (TTY: 1-800-787-3224)
MSR Institute

Danger Assessment Tool

This confidential self-assessment is designed to help survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse understand their level of risk and connect with the right support.

This tool is informed by established lethality assessment research, including the Danger Assessment framework developed by Dr. Jacquelyn Campbell. It is not a clinical diagnosis. Please consult a professional advocate or counselor for personalized guidance.

Important Notice

This assessment is completely confidential and does not collect personally identifiable information. It is intended as an educational tool to help you understand your situation. If you are in crisis, please contact emergency services immediately or email Millicent directly at msri@millicentstarnesrecovery.org — a nationally accredited advocate will respond as soon as possible.

Self-Assessment

Answer honestly — your safety matters.

Please select which assessment best describes your situation. All responses are anonymous and confidential.

Domestic Violence & Intimate Partner Abuse

I am experiencing abuse, control, or violence from a current or former partner or spouse.

Based on Dr. Jacquelyn Campbell's Danger Assessment
Sexual Violence & Sexual Assault

I have experienced sexual assault, rape, coercion, or other forms of sexual violence by anyone.

MSR Institute Sexual Violence Assessment
About This Tool

Grounded in Research. Designed with Survivors in Mind.

This assessment is informed by the Danger Assessment (DA) tool developed by Dr. Jacquelyn Campbell of Johns Hopkins University — one of the most widely used and validated instruments for assessing lethality risk in domestic violence situations.

MSR Institute has adapted key indicators from established lethality research to create an accessible, educational self-assessment. This tool is intended to help survivors understand risk patterns. For personalized guidance, email Millicent directly at msri@millicentstarnesrecovery.org.

Millicent Starnes is a nationally accredited victim advocate with over a decade of experience in complex and high-risk cases. If your results concern you, we encourage you to book a confidential crisis navigation session.

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MSR Institute Store

Books, Resources & Merch

Every purchase supports the mission of MSR Institute — transforming how the world responds to sexual violence.

Books by Millicent Starnes

Written from the frontlines of justice.

Coming Soon
By Millicent Starnes
Title Coming Soon

Millicent's first book — drawn from over a decade of frontline advocacy, crisis navigation, and survivor support.

MSR Institute
Apparel
Merch
MSR Institute Apparel

Wear the mission. MSR Institute branded apparel — coming soon.

Digital Resources
Resources
Guides & Workbooks

Downloadable guides, safety planning workbooks, and educational resources for survivors and advocates.

Stay in the Loop

Be the first to know when new products drop.

New books, resources, and MSR Institute merch are on the way. Join our community and you'll hear about it first.