Social Model Recovery Systems (SMRS) was proud to participate in this year’s “It Happens to Boys” Conference, hosted by Creative Change Conferences. Centered around the theme “From Shame to Strength: The Journey of Male Survivors,” the event brought together clinicians, advocates, educators, and community members committed to raising awareness and supporting healing for boys and men who have experienced sexual abuse and trauma.
The conference created a supportive space where survivors and professionals could share experiences, learn from one another, and build meaningful connections. Through education, storytelling, and creative expression, speakers explored the path from silence and shame toward recovery and advocacy. Conversations throughout the day encouraged participants to consider how professionals and the community as a whole can play a role in supporting survivors’ healing.
Participants gained valuable insight into the unique challenges male survivors often face, including gender expectations and norms that can make it difficult for boys and men to speak openly about their lived experience. The sessions also highlighted trauma-informed approaches that foster trust, safety, and empowerment. Attendees left with practical tools to recognize emotional, behavioral, and relational signs of trauma and to respond in ways that support recovery.
Social Model Recovery Systems hosted a resource table at the event, where staff connected with attendees and shared information about the organization’s treatment programs and recovery services. One of the programs highlighted during the event was Omni Center, a residential treatment program for adult men. Omni Center provides a structured and supportive environment where men can address substance use disorders while exploring underlying trauma that may contribute to addiction. Through counseling and recovery-focused activities, the program helps men build healthier coping strategies and work toward long-term recovery.
Adding to the organization’s presence at the conference was Mike Schaub, Senior Director of Community Relations at Social Model Recovery Systems, who served as Master of Ceremonies. Mike guided the audience through the event and introduced a lineup of speakers whose work continues to advance understanding and support for survivors.
The conference featured a diverse group of presenters, including Daniel Marquez, a longtime advocate for male survivors who has shared his story at the conference every year since its founding, helping other men with similar experiences find hope and begin their recovery journeys; Beck Gee, who spoke about LGBTQ+ trauma and culturally responsive care; Peter Alsop, who combined music and storytelling to explore issues of trauma, gender, and social change; Nick Bognar, who addressed emotional development and healing among men; Jerry Moe, a leading expert on children affected by addiction; and Sonny Van Cleveland, a national advocate for male survivors who shared his work creating spaces where survivors can reclaim their stories.
For more than sixteen years, Carol Teitelbaum, LMFT, founder of Creative Change Conferences, has brought together professionals, advocates, and survivors through the “It Happens to Boys” Conference to foster open dialogue and reduce the stigma surrounding male sexual trauma. Social Model Recovery Systems was honored to take part in this important gathering and stand alongside others dedicated to wellness and recovery. This event highlighted the intersection of trauma, mental health, and substance use disorders, areas where SMRS continues to provide treatment and recovery support for individuals and families across the communities it serves.
If you or someone you care about is facing challenges with substance use or mental health, please call our Care Center at 877-507-6242 for confidential support and information about treatment options.
