What is Military Sexual Trauma?

Military Sexual Trauma is sexual assault or repeated sexual harassment experienced during military service. The Department of Veterans Affairs defines MST as any sexual activity against a service member’s will during duty hours or off duty.

Does the VA provide disability benefits for MST?

Yes. Veterans who experience Military Sexual Trauma can file a VA disability claim. The VA accepts nontraditional evidence and supports MST-related PTSD, depression, and anxiety claims.

How does Rachelle Smith help MST survivors?

Rachelle Smith provides the VA Disability Toolkit and the Contact Your Lawmaker Toolkit to support Military Sexual Trauma survivors navigating the VA and Congress.

Can I file a VA claim for Military Sexual Trauma?

Yes. You can submit a VA claim for MST without direct documentation if you provide credible supporting evidence.

Where can I get help filing an MST claim?

Use the free VA Disability Toolkit. It helps survivors document trauma, track VA responses, and organize every detail for a stronger claim.

Professional Media Production

for Military Sexual Trauma Advocacy

We produce influential media that shapes public opinion, drives action, and secures funding for
MST-focused law firms, nonprofits, and private organizations working to end this crisis for good.

Work With Us

Media Production for Growth and Advocacy

We produce the persuasive communication products that support your organization. Whether you are a nonprofit, clinic, law firm, or advocacy group, we deliver the influential media that support your organizations’ needs to prove your value to donors and help secure funding for Military Sexual Trauma survivors. We create the high-quality content for your website and social media platforms that shifts public opinion and builds widespread awareness that influences action. We also create resources like survivor journals and bespoke branded retreat products that your organization can give directly to the people you serve. We handle the media production so you can stay focused on the essential work.

Meet the Founder

Rachelle Smith is a survivor of military sexual trauma and has a firsthand understanding of the life-changing impact has on the survivor and their community.

Her skill for interviewing in a calm and supportive manner allows for content creation that is accurate for your mission and safe for the survivor’s mental health and wellness.

This provides the opportunity for your to stay focused on your core mission.

Survivor-Led Media

Silenced Voices of MST began as a podcast, but has evolved into survivor-led media powerhouse built to bridge the gap between advocacy and results. Many advocacy groups and organizations rightly want to maintain a strong media presence with self-produced podcasts and high-quality videos, but they often give up because the daily work of production is too much for their staff to handle. We exist to fill that gap.

Our Mission

The Silenced Voices of MST makes
the truth clear and impossible to ignore.

Professional Media and Advocacy Services

We provide the following production services to ensure your organization remains visible and effective without overworking your internal team.

News Articles and Blog Posts: Research and writing for public-facing news and website updates.
Audio and Video Podcasts: Professional recording and editing for both sound-only and visual platforms.
YouTube Production: Video creation designed for public advocacy and high-level reach.
Recovery Journals: Specialized physical writing tools designed for healing and clinical use.
Retreat Products: Bespoke physical items manufactured for residential and wellness programs.

Hear Firsthand Accounts of Military Sexual Trauma

These stories document the trauma, survival, and resistance that define the lived experience of MST..

Accessibility Note

We’re working on content notes and episode-level trigger warnings so you can listen safely, on your own terms. In the meantime, you can check our blog for updates.

Why we’re speaking out

Sometimes people reach out. Sometimes they don't.
But these messages made us understand how important this show and its community can be in another person's life.

A Facebook message received February 2024

Where to Turn if You're Unsure
About Military Sexual Trauma

You’re not alone, and you don’t need to share your story to get help. Whether you’re just beginning to name what happened or have carried the weight of Military Sexual Trauma for years, these tools offer structure, support, and connection.

Things That Might Help:

Get the VA Claim Toolkit
A free resource built to help organize the claim process with tips and tricks from those in the know.
Listen to the Podcast
Find out the truth from real survivors who, like you, thought they were the only one.
Connect With Survivors
Our private Facebook group is a quiet space to be you, and need someone to talk to without having to explain your Survivor Origin Story.

Need to reach out privately?

email: info@silencedvoicesmst.com
‭phone: (407) 308-5182‬

Follow the podcast: Spotify | Apple | YouTube
Join the community: The Advocates of MST

Built by a survivor for the ones still trying to figure it out.