Childhood Sexual Abuse, Trafficking, Trauma Implications, and Recovery
Amy Rouleau, BSW, MPA | September 25 | 11:30 AM-12:30 PM
Topic: Direct Service, Experience | Knowledge Level: Intermediate
Geared toward professionals who work with survivors of trauma, and particularly those interested in dissociative disorders, this engaging presentation will provide a greater understanding of how early childhood sexual abuse, the human brain, and human trafficking are all connected. Amy’s personal testimony will leave you inspired and hopeful for a future without human trafficking. Amy presents the data and her own experience with abuse, severe dissociation, substance abuse, cognitive issues, and deeper systemic issues. There is an emphasis on Dissociative Identity Disorder, its prevalence among survivors of long-term trauma and implications related the diagnosis; a diagnosis for which Amy is very familiar. While no child, or adult, is completely immune from the evils of human trafficking, those who have already experienced severe trauma are more likely to fall victim. Preventing human trafficking has proven to be a difficult endeavor, but do not lose hope. Through realistic approaches in mental health, early education, law enforcement, and foster care, intervention and restoration are possible.
Presentation Objectives:
· Discuss how early childhood sexual trauma impacts the developing brain
· Explain how childhood sexual abuse, children in foster care, and sex trafficking are all connected
· Describe early intervention, support systems, and holistic therapy options to help heal trauma