As a survivor of human trafficking, Alicia Tappan’s story is one of resilience, strength, and unwavering determination. Her journey led her to launch Survivor-Led Solutions, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering human trafficking survivors.

Because exposure to the trauma of human trafficking can lead to mental health and substance misuse, Alicia’s expertise and first-hand experience in trauma-informed care make her an influential partner for the specialized caregivers at Lakeview Center.

Alicia’s commitment to protecting vulnerable populations aligns with Lakeview Center’s mission of “helping people.” As Northwest Florida’s most comprehensive behavioral health care provider, Lakeview Center offers critical services for individuals facing mental health challenges, substance misuse, and intellectual disabilities, as well as children and adults involved in the child welfare system. These vulnerable populations in our community represent at-risk target groups for human traffickers. Through specialized training, Lakeview Center team members are equipped to provide safety measures protecting those we serve in the fight against human trafficking.

Alicia has been a valued partner with Lakeview Center through her work on the organization’s Human Trafficking Task Force and training events. She and her team have also donated hundreds of clothing and toiletry items – and helped organize these into a Resource Closet. The Resource Closet benefits people coming into Lakeview Center’s crisis or residential units – some of whom have only the clothes on their backs and come to stay at Lakeview Center for weeks, even months at a time for treatment.

Alicia also provides training at Lakeview Center’s Meridian – a statewide inpatient psychiatric program – and foster care group homes.

Her passion for justice has driven her to collaborate with education systems, law enforcement, medical providers, and first responders, bringing awareness and training to the frontlines. Alicia has presented at national and state levels and contributed to news reports, articles, and podcasts. In 2019, Attorney General Ashley Moody honored her as Florida’s Survivor of the Year for her groundbreaking work in education and awareness. Alicia’s passion for service has led her to become a fierce advocate, educator, and leader in the fight against human trafficking.

Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology: Crisis Management, Alicia continues to deepen her expertise, ensuring survivors receive the support they need.  Her dissertation focus is on the need for restorative justice programs for incarcerated survivors of sexual exploitation. She also has a brand-new professional memoir to be released in July of 2025, titled Brave Girl Diaries: Innocence Interrupted.

Alicia’s journey has shaped her purpose, provided a platform for those who have endured the unimaginable, and given countless other survivors the power to reclaim their voices. We are honored to work together to serve the needs of vulnerable populations in Northwest Florida.

Alicia’s story is a testament to the power of lived experience combined with a desire to help others to create meaningful change. Whether through education, advocacy or using your platform to spread awareness, change begins when people take action. With your help, we can make a difference in our communities together and take another step forward in the fight against human trafficking.

To support the crisis mental health and residential programs at Lakeview Center, visit eLakeviewCenter.org/donate.