PROVIDENCE (RI)
Providence Journal [Providence RI]
July 3, 2026
By Katie Mulvaney
The two-year “revival window” newly opened for Rhode Islanders to file civil claims against alleged sexual abusers and institutions can be triggering, not only for those bringing lawsuits but for survivors overall, including those who’ve remained silent.
With that in mind, Ann Hagan Webb, a psychologist, advocate and survivor, compiled a list of resources for individuals who are affected. Webb was molested by her parish priest from ages 5 to 12.
“Many of us will feel elated at the sudden sense of power in taking this step. I applaud everyone who files suit this week and in the months and years to come. It takes courage,” Webb said in a statement.
She emphasized that even contemplating such a step can stir up latent emotions; so, too, will the arduous journey through the legal system with its inevitable delays.
“I urge everyone to seek help in some kind of support system, find a therapist, find a support group, do trauma-informed yoga, whatever works for you. But find support. It will be a rocky ride,” Webb said.
Day One RI, which provides trauma-informed services to victims, plans to launch a support group for survivors of clergy sex abuse this fall, Executive Director Michelle Loranger said.
“We stand alongside survivors, with the opportunity to reclaim control and hold institutions accountable,” Loranger said.
More: 30+ new clergy sex abuse lawsuits filed against Catholic Church in RI
Webb’s Resource List
Rhode Island State Police / Attorney General
Special Victims Unit – Clergy Abuse Hotline
Phone: 401-764-0142
Day One RI
Day One RI provides an around-the-clock hotline to the Rhode Island community supporting survivors of sexual abuse. Day One offers advocacy support as well as clinical and therapy services to support survivors, victims and their families, according to its website.
Phone: 401-421-4100
Ask for Jeanne Cerrone, director of Outpatient Clinical Services, ext. 125
Website: dayoneri.org
Male Survivor
Male Survivor offers an online 24/7 chat service for survivors, as well as those around them. The mission is to raise awareness for male sexual assault and abuse survivors and offer support to them and their families, Webb said.
Website: malesurvivor.org
Interfaith Counseling Center
The Interfaith Counseling Center is a nonprofit in Rhode Island that offers a range of mental health counseling services by professional practitioners “to all in need,” according to its website. Its counselors work with individuals, couples and families to strengthen relationships and foster growth, Webb said.
Phone: 401-461-5234
Website: interfaithri.org
This is a new organization that was formed by former leaders of Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, with a focus on survivor-to-survivor connections and support groups, according to the group’s website. It offers virtual and in-person survivor support groups.
Website: ascoalition.org
SNAP (Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests)
SNAP has been supporting survivors for more than 30 years, offering confidential support for survivors of religious authority abuse, Webb said, adding that there are no local SNAP chapters in New England and no current virtual groups.
Phone: 202-802-8611
Website: snapnetwork.org
Providence Diocese Office of Compliance
For financial help with therapy, contact: Michael D. Hansen, director of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence Office of Outreach and Prevention, victim assistance coordinator, according to Webb.
401-946-0728 or mhansen@dpvd.org
To report abuse to the diocese, contact former Lt. Col. Robert A. Creamer, director of the Office of Compliance, at 401-941-0760 or rcreamer@dpvd.org.
This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Survivor of clergy sex abuse shares resources for those impacted