There are several issues of concern when assisting victims of crime, specifically victims of sexual violence. The Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape (PCAR) developed this guidebook to assist all those involved in the successful recovery of sexual assault victims. The book begins by discussing the need to address immediate concerns as soon as it is appropriate for the victim. These include physical safety, evidence, medical attention, reporting the assault, and immediate counseling. The guide than presents the need for effective communication in an assault victim’s long-term adjustment and provides several suggestions. Sexual violence violates a person’s trust and feeling of safety. It is necessary to understand sexual violence with the continuum of sexual violence including rape, incest, child sexual assault, ritual abuse, date and acquaintance rape, statutory rape, marital or partner rape, sexual exploitation, sexual contact, sexual harassment, exposure, and voyeurism. The guidebook continues with a presentation of myths and facts, as well as questions and concerns related to victims of sexual violence. Those assisting victims of sexual violence must understand and be aware of the long-term effects of sexual assault. Victims may experience a wide range of emotions with some common reactions including denial, anger, depression, shame, dissociation, fear, promiscuity, guilt, difficulty concentrating, and crisis of faith. Sexual violence can also affect not only the victim, but those close to the victim. The book discusses these effects and how to deal with these experiences and emotions. Suggestions are then presented on how to reduce the risk of being assaulted. The guidebook concludes with definitions of words and terms frequently used and related to sexual assault victims.