Our Story
Emily LaFave, LMSW, has been working with survivors since 2011. She started as a first responder to sexual assault survivors where she would provide immediate support and advocacy. She moved into a therapist role in community mental health working with kids who have disclosed physical or sexual abuse. Then Emily accepted a role as a homebased therapist where she worked with at-risk youth in the foster care or juvenile justice system. Emily stayed in community mental health working with folks across the lifespan who often experienced trauma. It is important to know Emily’s history because she has always been passionate about working with survivors.
In 2021, Emily started Prime Counseling Services where she wanted to bridge the world of private practice and community mental health. It was important to her to create a team that was trauma informed, because she had heard the stories of survivors not getting the support they deserved. In 2023, Emily wanted to raise awareness around sexual assault and give back to the community, so she created the "Reforming Me: An Art Exhibit for Survivors of Sexual Assault". The successful event inspired her to do more for the community, so with the help of Matthew LaFave and Paige Koerber, Prime Trauma Foundation was born. Creating a non-profit will allow us to accept donations, apply for grants, and to be able to provide education, support, and access to free resources and events. The founding members of Prime Trauma Foundation are excited to make a difference though eliminating the stigma and shame around trauma.