Empowering Neurodivergent Voices

Hear Me Roar began with a mother’s determination to make sure no child is overlooked simply because they communicate differently.

My son, who is autistic, disclosed that he had been sexually assaulted when he was eight years old. Like many families, we entered the system frightened, overwhelmed, and unsure what to expect. As the investigation unfolded, it became painfully clear how easily neurodivergent communication styles can be misunderstood when the right supports are not in place.

Each time my son was asked to repeat what happened without professionals trained in autism-informed approaches, he relived the trauma. The stress of navigating a system we did not understand led to repeated emotional crises for him and sleepless, heartbreaking nights for me as his parent.

I began researching. I learned how literal language, trust patterns, anxiety, and trauma can affect how autistic children share information. I discovered how simple accommodations and informed interviewing practices can dramatically change outcomes — not only for the child, but for investigators and service providers as well.

Most importantly, I realized many families and professionals are doing the best they can with limited access to specialized knowledge.

When appropriate supports were finally introduced, everything changed. Communication improved. My son felt safer. Information became clearer. The process no longer caused the same level of retraumatization.

Hear Me Roar was created so other families would not have to learn these lessons alone or in the middle of a crisis.

Today, our mission is to support neurodivergent victims of violent crime and their caregivers by helping them:

• understand what to expect
   
• organize information
   
• request accommodations
   
• communicate effectively with professionals
   
• access trauma-informed resources
   

We are equally committed to working alongside agencies and community partners by sharing practical guidance that strengthens interactions and reduces misunderstandings.

Because every child deserves to be heard.

And every family deserves support while navigating the path toward justice.

There are many ways to get involved with Hear Me Roar. Attend one of our events, support our cause, or volunteer your time. We'd love to have you on board!  

Hear Me Roar provides education, practical tools, and navigation support to strengthen outcomes for neurodivergent victims of violent crime and the families and professionals who serve them.

Our programs focus on improving understanding, reducing retraumatization, and promoting clear, effective communication.

We offer training for law enforcement officers, investigators, and multidisciplinary professionals on topics including:

• how autism and other neurodivergent conditions can affect communication
   
• why delayed disclosure is common
   
• differences between flat affect and credibility
   
• literal interpretation of questions
   
• sensory stress during interviews
   
• the value of appropriate accommodations
   
• strategies for working constructively with caregivers
   

Our goal is to enhance clarity, support trauma-informed interactions, and improve the quality of information shared during professional engagements.

Following a disclosure, families are often overwhelmed and unsure what to expect. Our advocates provide guidance and organization so caregivers can participate in the process with greater confidence.

Support may include:

• explanation of investigative and legal procedures
   
• assistance developing timelines of events
   
• preparation for meetings with law enforcement, attorneys, child protection, and other professionals
   
• connection to community and therapeutic resources
   
• emotional support during difficult stages of the process
   

Hear Me Roar does not conduct investigations and does not provide legal advice.
Our role is supportive, educational, and collaborative.