Healing from Trafficking: The Role of Personal Existential Beliefs
Mac Morrison, LMHC, MAT | September 22 | 9:45-10:45 am
Topic: Conceptual | Knowledge Level: Intermediate
For survivors exiting trafficking, the role of existential beliefs may aid in long term healing. The survivor may ask questions such as, "Why did this happen to me?", "Am I always going to feel wounded?", "What is my purpose for surviving these traumas?” and may also be dealing with guilt, shame, and feelings of worthlessness. Existential or spiritual beliefs can help some survivors answer these important questions and may help heal the cognitive distortions that are developed in this form of trauma, in order to allow the survivor to grow, change, and develop a healthy sense of self and purpose in life. Conference attendees can expect to learn skills to help survivors make meaning of their experience to help create personal growth, hope, and change.
Presentation Objectives:
· Assist attendees in understanding the role of existential beliefs in the healing process of survivors
· Discuss ways to help survivors develop their own personal framework and beliefs about themselves, their experience, and their healing process
· Explain how to avoid pitfalls in working with survivors