Mental Health/Trauma Informed Care

Sexual violence includes unwanted, non-consensual behaviors and language that can happen repeatedly to the same victim. It is not openly discussed, under reported, and rarely prosecuted. The “Untold Stories” research project interviewed survivors, family members, and professionals with extensive experience in the disability field. The objectives of the two-year research project were to understand the lived experiences of survivors, identify the short- and long-term impact of sexual violence on victims and families, explore how state systems address this issue, and make recommendations about risk-reduction strategies. The data can be used to increase awareness and understanding of what NPR called “the hidden epidemic.” Intended recipients for this presentation include self-advocates, employment specialists, researchers, teachers, direct support providers, legal and law enforcement staff, system administrators, and counselors/therapists. Learning Outcomes1. Understand the broad and severe impact of sexual violence on survivors and families.2. Identify sexual violence risk reduction strategies.3. Discuss attitudes that impede addressing the epidemic of sexual violence.

Learn how to recognize the most common signs that someone is the victim of abuse or neglect. Gain the confidence to know when to report suspected abuse or neglect, how to report, and to whom. Resources will be provided to help you understand the process that follows a report as well as how to access resources you might need. 1. Attendees will learn the definition and signs of different types of abuse and neglect _x000D_ 2. Attendees will learn when and how and to whom to report suspected abuse _x000D_ 3. Discussion around distinguishing of behavior is disability related or abuse_x000D_ 4. Practical strategies and resources will be shared