Summary:
With the increased awareness surrounding identification of survivors of human trafficking and exploitation, mental health clinicians are more likely than ever to work with a survivor in their clinical practice. However, mental health clinicians often have difficulty recognizing indicators of exploitation and difficulty understanding the complex dynamics of trafficking and exploitation and how these may show up in their clinical practice.
This presentation will provide an overview of the spectrum of trafficking and exploitation, provide information on identifying indicators of trafficking, and give an overview of clinical considerations mental health providers must make in treatment planning with survivors of trafficking and exploitation. At the end of this presentation, clinicians will be more confident and better prepared in supporting their clients. 1.5 CEUs.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of the presentation, participants will be able to:
- Define human trafficking using the acts, means, purpose model
- Explain the spectrum of exploitation and trafficking
- Apply five indicators of trafficking and exploitation in a clinical setting
- Identify three best practices for treatment planning with survivors of trafficking and exploitation
About the Presenters:
Liz Downey (she/her) is a Colorado based Licensed Clinical Social Worker and co-founder of The Golden Thread Collaborative, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing ethical, trauma-responsive care for survivors of human trafficking. Liz’s expertise stems from over fifteen years of experience working with survivors of sex trafficking and commercial exploitation, both working directly with individuals and building trauma-responsive systems of care. Liz currently splits her time between trainings with Golden Thread, clinical work specializing in working with clients with complex trauma, co-occurring disorders, and dissociation using EMDR and somatic therapy, and teaching clinical practice in the MSW program at MSU Denver.
Chelsea Newton (she/her) is a Colorado based Licensed Clinical Social Worker, sex educator (M.Ed.), and co-founder of The Golden Thread Collaborative, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing ethical, trauma-responsive care for survivors of human trafficking. With extensive experience in trafficking prevention, survivor-centered treatment, and sexuality education, Chelsea brings a grounded, no-BS approach to helping clinicians build real-world competence. Her work focuses on supporting LGBTQ+ adults, survivors of sexual trauma, and communities navigating identity, embodiment, and healing. Through The Golden Thread Collaborative, Chelsea is committed to elevating clinical practice and strengthening the safety net for survivors across Colorado and beyond.
Will this Salon be recorded?
No, this event will not be recorded.
Who Can Attend this Event?
This event is free for active CSCSW members. Non-members may attend for $45. Current social work students may attend for free after submitting proof of student status (copy of valid student id, current course schedule from registrar, etc). CEU certificates will not be issued those who register as a student.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Refunds will be offered for cancellations made at least 24 hours before the event.