Peer Led Support Groups: Using Virtual Spaces to Increase Access for Survivors

M. Elizabeth Bowman, PhD, LICSW, LCSW-C; Liz Kimbel & Tara Wallace | September 18 | 1:45-2:45 pm

Topic: Programming, Experience | Knowledge Level: Advanced

This training equips professionals with the skills to establish Peer-Led Support Groups tailored for survivors of trafficking, specifically focusing on leveraging virtual spaces to enhance accessibility. Participants will learn effective strategies for creating a supportive online environment where survivors can connect, share experiences, and foster a sense of community. Attendees will gain practical insights into facilitating meaningful discussions, utilizing virtual tools, and addressing potential challenges unique to online platforms. This training aims to empower participants with the tools needed to build a virtual community that enhances support, connectivity, and healing for survivors of trafficking.

Presentation Objectives:

• Describe virtual tools for support groups

• Discuss gains and challenges of virtual spaces for support groups and how to effectively facilitate using these platforms

• Discuss ongoing program evaluation and lessons learned by Restoring Ivy Collective

About the Presenters

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M. Elizabeth Bowman, PhD, LICSW, LCSW-C

M. Elizabeth Bowman is an Assistant Professor at Gallaudet University. She is also a minor domestic sex trafficking survivor and the founder of the Restoring Ivy Collective. In clinical practice, she works with trafficking survivors using expressive therapies including arts and yoga.

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Liz Kimbel

Liz Kimbel, Virtual & Outreach Director at The Restoring Ivy Collective, is dedicated to supporting and empowering survivors. Liz specializes in re-entry, as well as virtual community management. She utilizes yoga, social-emotional arts, and addiction and behavior recovery. Liz's background is in program development and facilitation, advocacy, public relations, and training.

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Tara Wallace

Tara Wallace, a Data Analyst with Restoring Ivy Collective, has a background in Financial Technologies (FINTech), strategic management, academic research, and project management. Tara is passionate about the importance of incorporating the voices and perspectives of those with lived experience in data-driven solutions-based approaches to combating commercial sexual exploitation.

2024Anna SchrammSeptember 18, 2024M. Elizabeth Bowman, PhD, LICSW, LCSW-C; Liz Kimbel & Tara Wallace18:1:45