S.06179

Directs the office of mental health to develop guidelines to prevent retraumatization of sexual offense victims in outpatient settings.

Amends the mental hygiene law to require the office of mental health to create guidelines for outpatient services to victims of sexual offenses. These guidelines will outline best practices to avoid retraumatization by known sex offenders, based on evidence-based practices. The office must consult with stakeholders, including consumer advocates, providers, and victim rights groups, when developing these guidelines.