According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, 44% of victims were trafficked by a family member. This was Avi’s heartbreaking reality. From the age of two until fifteen years old, she experienced unimaginable abuse at the hands of her own family. They were members of a cult and subjected her to many horrific forms of ritual abuse, incest and trafficking.
However, in high school, a friend’s invitation to a youth group introduced her to God’s love. Over time, Avi became a Christian, finding strength and support from safe, caring people, which helped her begin to heal.
“This newfound faith brought safe and supportive people into my life. I was able to sever ties with my family which offered me the strength I needed to move forward.”
Avi’s significant step into her recovery was spending four months in a residential treatment program, which provided Avi the tools and support she needed to heal. As Avi moved forward in her healing journey, she discovered a passion for helping others. However, returning to school seemed like an unattainable dream, especially while navigating the challenges of Complex PTSD (CPTSD).
With support from One Purse, Avi was able to pursue her Master’s in Christian counseling. As she nears graduation in 2025, she is preparing to start a private practice to help others on their healing journeys.
“Achieving this goal has been an incredible milestone—one I once thought was beyond my reach. The knowledge I am gaining is not only helping me heal but also equipping me to make a difference in others. I am deeply grateful to One Purse for believing in me and helping me turn my dream into reality.”
* The name in this story has been changed to protect the individual’s identity. The picture above is what she shared with us.