Here's What Helps Survivors Heal

Please note: our content contains sensitive discussions of childhood sexual abuse.

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In this powerful expert video, Maria Barcelos an Executive Director of The Gatehouse, shares trauma-informed insight into how we can better support survivors of child sexual abuse and their loved ones. From the importance of peer support to how couples can navigate healing together, Maria offers deep wisdom from years of experience on the frontlines of survivor care.

Healing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some people need therapy. Others need community. Many need both.” — Maria Barcelos In this video, you’ll learn:

✔️ Why a holistic healing model matters
✔️ How The Gatehouse helps couples build trust and understanding
✔️ What survivors really need when disclosing
✔️ How to create safer, more compassionate support systems

Whether you’re a survivor, a partner, or someone who cares, this conversation offers hope, clarity, and practical ways to be present through the healing journey.

Connect with Maria

Maria initially joined The Gatehouse as a volunteer in 2011 and became a staff team member later that year. In 2016, she became its Executive Director. Maria is deeply committed to community engagement and believes in the power of community-based responses to address underlying social issues. She inspires, acknowledges, and empowers students, volunteers, and staff to be part of the change they wish to see in the world. Maria holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University (Honours) and a Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies from the University of Guelph-Humber (High Honours), where she was awarded the Virginia Grey Medal for Academic Achievement. She also holds an Honours Diploma in Human Resources Management from George Brown College