VSC Podcast: Recent Episodes
Victim Service Center
The Victim Service Center Podcast sits down with professionals that serve survivors and victims of trauma, or those who have experienced violence, and have conversations about social issues.
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode includes discussion about domestic violence, sexual assault, and child sexual abuse.
VSC’s own Victim Advocate and Crisis Counselor, Shaye Stall, the host of the VSC Podcast chats with Nicola Prichard, who is also a Victim Advocate and CrisisCounselor at VSC, about perpetrators. Nicola and Shaye dive into the nuances of media portrayal, supporting survivors, and the various emotions and/or thoughtsexpressed by clients related to still loving and caring about one’s perpetrator even after the abuse.
This subject can be difficult to listen to. We, at VSC, understand that this topic can be sensitive to listeners. While it is important to have conversations, wewould like to remind listeners that it is important to take care of your mental health. We also recognize that violence perpetrated by a loved one or caregivercan be emotionally complex, but we believe all violence is unacceptable. VSC believes all homes should be safe homes and we aim to live in a world whereviolence does not exist. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, please reach out for help. Violence is never your fault, and you deserve to live safely without the threat of violence.
Below are hotlines that we recommend.
VSCHelpline: (407) 500-4325
NationalSexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673
NationalDomestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 OR Text “START” to 88788
In this episode, VSC Educator Hannah Jenarine explores critical issues related to trauma, violence, and sexual assault, featuring conversations with professionals dedicated to serving survivors. In this episode, Hannah discusses the complex topic of human trafficking with Jasmine DeVerteuil.The discussion covers various aspects of human trafficking, addressing questions such as how victims are exploited, the methods traffickers employ, and whether a trafficked person can truly consent. The impact of sexual and labor exploitation on victims' decision-making processes is explored, along with the role of technology in both recruitment and combating trafficking.Jasmine sheds light on common misconceptions surrounding human trafficking and highlights the challenges of combating this crime that often operates in the shadows. The importance of international cooperation and data-sharing among law enforcement agencies, NGOs, and governments is emphasized for effective prevention and intervention.The conversation touches on the "save sally complex," providing additional depth to the discussion. The podcast concludes with information on organizations and resources available for those interested in supporting the fight against human trafficking or helping survivors. A message of hope and inspiration is shared, reinforcing the idea that healing is not linear, and individuals are not alone in the struggle against human trafficking.-----------------------------------Trigger Warning: In this podcast, we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
In this insightful podcast episode featuring guest Sally Leslie, an inspiring LGBT+ survivor of narcissistic abuse and host of her own podcast: Reclaiming Pride: LGBT+ Survivors of Narcissistic Abuse, she candidly shares her personal journey of healing and self-discovery. Sally discusses the unique challenges faced within the context of her LGBT+ identity and how the abuse impacted her sense of self-worth. She sheds light on the abuser's tactics, emphasizing their exploitation of vulnerabilities related to her LGBT+ identity. Sally explores the profound process of reclaiming pride, detailing initial steps taken to rebuild self-esteem post-abuse. The episode addresses the impact on relationships within the LGBTQ+ community and offers advice for those facing similar challenges. Sally highlights the crucial role of professional help, therapy, and support from friends and chosen family in her recovery. Reconnecting with authenticity and combating self-doubt are key themes, with Sally providing valuable advice for others in similar situations. For survivors, she recommends resources and strategies for reclaiming pride and moving forward from narcissistic abuse. Sally Leslie's narrative serves as an empowering source of inspiration and guidance for navigating the intersection of LGBT+ identity and the journey to healing.-----------------------------------Trigger Warning: In this podcast, we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
In this episode, VSC's Educator, Hannah Jenarine speaks with a diverse array of experts and professionals to help us understand the Black Maternal Mortality Crisis. Jamie Homan provides an Advocacy Perspective and Melissa Tran shares therapeutic approaches.More about our panelists:Melissa Tran is a Marriage and Family Therapist and the Military Sexual Trauma Coordinator at Orlando VA Healthcare System. She leads the Perinatal Reproductive Education Planning and Resources (PREPARe) service, which has garnered national recognition through the achievement of the 2021 Dr. Robert L Jesse Award for Innovation. Ms. Tran is also an instructor for Nova Southeastern Kiran C Patel and University of Central Florida Colleges of Medicine and supports the diversity, equity, and inclusion team at OVAHCS. Jaimie received her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Central Florida and has ten years of experience counseling children, teens, and adults with a clinical specialization in sexual assault, trauma, and abuse recovery. She is also involved in international nonprofit work as well as international adoption, serving on the board of directors at Priority One Worldwide, Inc. and Children’s House International as an adoption social worker. Jaimie’s interactions with diverse and courageous people in crisis compelled her to pursue a career in counseling and advocacy. Working with sexual assault survivors is and has been one of her greatest professional privileges and callings, and she is honored to be able to provide services to the individuals who call on the VSC for support.
In this episode, VSC's Educator, Hannah Jenarine speaks with a diverse array of experts and professionals to help us Understand the Impact of Children Witnessing Domestic Violence. Leslie Pender provides us with a Clinical/Psychological Perspective and Kendall Johnson shares how the dynamic shifts when children live in a Narcissistic household.More about our panelists:NAS Founder & CEO Kendall T. Johnson is a best-selling author, beauty industry expert, and motivational speaker known for her engaging presentations on issues related to narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, abandonment, divorce, incarceration, drug addiction, child molestation, failed relationships, and generational cycles of heartache and pain.Leslie Pender is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida and the private practice owner of Seeds of Transition Counseling Services, LLC which is in the Metrowest area of Orlando, FL. Ms. Pender earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science with a concentration in Sociology from the University of Maryland University College and her Master of Science degree from Capella University in Mental Health Counseling. It was during her residency for licensure that Ms. Pender began to focus her research on social justice advocacy and cultural competency within the mental health counseling field. Ms. Pender’s work as a LMHC has consisted of collaborative work with the Florida Department of Children and Families and other agencies in which she has advocated for practices and policies that provide mental health services for children and families within the foster care system from a trauma-informed care and culturally competent perspective.
🎧 Exciting News! 🚀 VSC Podcast is launching a captivating new series: 'VSC's Perspective on Violence Prevention.' 🌐 Dive into the dynamic world of violence prevention as we explore hot topics, strategies, and the Central Florida community's commitment to fostering a safer, more peaceful society. 🌍 Stay tuned for thought-provoking conversations and insights!
In this video, VSC's Violence Prevention Educator, Hannah Jenarine discusses two important topics: (1) Gender-based violence and its prevalence within the world and (2) how to survive the 2024 holidays this year.
In this episode, VSC's Violence Prevention Educator, Hannah Jenarine sits with Sandy Phillips Kirkham to speak on the Dynamics of Clergy Abuse.Sandy Kirkham and her husband Bill enjoy life with their two grown children, two beautiful granddaughters, and two fairly well-behaved dogs. Sandy continues to use her voice to help victims of clergy abuse. She currently serves on the board of Council Against Child Abuse. Sandy has spoken before the Ohio Senate, a Maryland court, and appeared on a local television show in Boston. Her story, “Stolen Innocence,” was told in a documentary produced by The Hope of Survivors. Sandy works with survivors conducting victim support conferences. She has participated in The Voice of the Faithful (VOTF) panels moderated by SNAP (Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests), sharing her perspective from the non-Catholic point of view. Sandy has been a presenter/speaker at major events on clergy abuse including the Hope & Healing Conference.Sandy has earned a certificate of completion from the Faith Trust Institute entitled, “A Sacred Trust: Boundary Issues for Clergy and Spiritual Teachers.”
Purchase her book "Let Me Prey Upon You": https://sandyphillipskirkham.com/shop/
Trigger Warning: In this podcast, we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
In this enlightening podcast, we are joined by Kristal Soler, a highly respected Program Director at Bays Central Family Program. Kristal begins by introducing herself and sharing insights into her background and extensive professional expertise. Her wealth of experience sets the stage for a deep dive into the world of Functional Family Therapy (FFT).During this engaging conversation, Kristal provides an in-depth overview of the FFT model, highlighting how it distinguishes itself from other intervention approaches. The key theme of the podcast is the "strength-based approach" at the heart of the FFT model. Kristal explains how this philosophy guides the intervention process, empowering and uplifting families as a central goal.The discussion delves into the challenges of engaging families in therapy and explores how the FFT model addresses this issue to establish a robust foundation for effective intervention. Motivation is a key factor in any successful intervention, and Kristal elucidates how the FFT model not only identifies sources of motivation but also sustains it throughout the treatment journey.Real-world examples are shared to illustrate how the FFT model has brought about meaningful changes within families, demonstrating its practical impact. Kristal also highlights the model's adaptability to diverse cultural contexts and the pivotal role cultural sensitivity plays in achieving success.The podcast further explores how the FFT model fosters collaboration among therapists, family members, and support systems, emphasizing the crucial nature of cooperation within the therapeutic process. Kristal shares a particularly complex or difficult case where the FFT model showcased its effectiveness, offering a tangible example of its transformative potential.The conversation also addresses the common challenges of resistance and skepticism within families towards therapy, with Kristal providing insights into how the FFT model adeptly overcomes these obstacles to build rapport and trust.The podcast concludes with Kristal reflecting on the insights gained from her years of experience with the FFT model. She shares invaluable lessons that could benefit therapists and interventionists worldwide, leaving listeners inspired and equipped to make a positive impact on families through the strength-based approach of Functional Family Therapy.-----------------------------------Trigger Warning: In this podcast, we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
In this episode, we will be talking about LGBTQ+ Pride.
Violence against the LGBTQ+ community remains a pressing concern that demands our attention and collective action. It encompasses various forms, including sexual violence, hate crimes, and targeted acts of aggression. Throughout this episode, we aim to explore both the systemic and individual dimensions of violence against the LGBTQ+ community. By listening to the experiences, insights, and recommendations from our esteemed guests, we hope to deepen our understanding, challenge harmful stereotypes, and identify actionable steps to create a more inclusive and safe society.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast, we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Join host Hannah Jenarine, Education Coordinator at the VSC, as she engages in a captivating conversation with fitness trainer Matt and Rhonda, Lead Advocate at the VSC and client of Matt. Delve into the powerful connection between physical activity and mental well-being as Matt shares his journey into fitness training, Rhonda unveils her healing transformation, and the trio explores the mental health benefits of fitness.
Myths are debunked, empowerment is discussed, and strategies for healing through fitness are revealed. From Rhonda's bodybuilding journey to overcoming challenges and nurturing self-care, this episode uncovers a holistic approach to wellness. Gain valuable advice for embarking on your own healing fitness journey, and discover how the fusion of exercise and well-being can truly transform lives. Don't miss out on this conversation—like, subscribe, and engage for more! 🌟🏋️♀️🧘♂️
Trigger Warning: In this podcast, we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
In this episode, we will be talking about Disability Pride. Disability Pride is a vibrant and empowering movement that aims to challenge societal perceptions, dismantle barriers, and foster a culture of inclusivity and acceptance for individuals with disabilities. Through this episode, we will explore the multifaceted aspects of Disability Pride, the challenges faced by disabled individuals, and the importance of creating a more accessible and equitable world.
In this thought-provoking video, join us on a personal journey as we explore the complexities of disability identity and the often-overlooked experience of feeling "not disabled enough."
Many individuals with disabilities face societal expectations and stereotypes that define disability in narrow terms, often disregarding the diverse range of conditions and experiences that exist. In "Navigating the Gray Area: My Experience with Feeling 'Not Disabled Enough',"VSC"s Violence Prevention Educator, Hannah Jenarine, and VSC Intern, Max Payne delve into the often overlooked emotional struggles and self-doubt that can arise when someone feels like they don't fit into society's preconceived notions of disability.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast, we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
In this episode, VSC's Violence Prevention Educator, Hannah Jenarine speaks with Juanita Carbajal on the crucial role of community partnerships in supporting mental health and well-being. They explore the profound impact that collaborative efforts between mental health service providers and community organizations have on individuals and communities at large. This podcast provides valuable insights and practical strategies for building resilient communities. Join us as we navigate the intersections between mental health, community engagement, and compassionate care, and discover how together we can create a supportive environment where mental wellness thrives.
Juanita C. is the Marketing & Community Relations Director with Positive Behavioral Solutions, currently a Masters in Public Health candidate with the University of Florida. She has over ten years experience working with the mental health population and is passionate about educating communities and reducing the stigma affiliated with Mental Health treatment and community care. She is your best point of contact for any partnerships, events, or referral concerns. She has a passion for utilizing trauma informed strategies to best support and empower BIPOC communities. She is a Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance and also leads "Hablemos Mas" Spanish speaking support group
Repressed trauma refers to traumatic experiences that an individual has experienced but has consciously or unconsciously suppressed or repressed the memory of it. This can happen as a coping mechanism, as the memory of the traumatic experience may be too overwhelming or painful for the individual to process. Repressed trauma can have a profound effect on a person's mental health and well-being, as the memories and emotions associated with the trauma may resurface later in life and impact the individual's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.In this episode, VSC's Violence Prevention Educator, Hannah Jenarine, speaks with Survivor, Ralph Reinert, and VSC's Victim Advocate, Nicola Prichard. They delve deep into the topic of repressed trauma share information to understand the mechanisms behind repressed memories and the effects they can have on mental health. We also hear about Ralph's experience with repressed trauma and learn about his journey towards healing and recovery. -----------------------------------Trigger Warning: In this podcast, we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
In this episode, VSC's Violence Prevention Educator speaks with VSC advocate, Shaye Stall and Dr. Brenda Arroyo Crespo to explore the impact of traumatic experiences on the brain and the ways in which this can affect behavior, emotions, and overall well-being. The video is designed to be educational and informative and is aimed at helping people better understand the complex relationship between trauma and brain function.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast, we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Violence against Black women is a complex issue that encompasses various forms of violence, including sexual violence, domestic violence, and its impact on mental health.
Sexual violence against Black women often goes unrecognized and underreported due to societal stigmas and victim-blaming attitudes. Black women are more likely to experience sexual violence from intimate partners or acquaintances than from strangers. These experiences can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and trauma, which can affect their mental health and overall well-being.
Black women are also disproportionately affected by domestic violence, with rates being more than double those of white women. Domestic violence can have long-lasting effects on their physical and mental health, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The impact of violence on the mental health of Black women can be exacerbated by the intersection of racism and sexism. The stigma surrounding mental health in the Black community can make it challenging for Black women to seek help or support. They may also face additional barriers due to their gender, race, and socioeconomic status.
In this video, VSC's Violence Prevention Educator, Hannah Jenarine, speaks with Lisa Alexander, Natalee Summers, and Leslie Pender to further the conversation!
-----------------------------------Trigger Warning: In this podcast, we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
ViolenceAgainstBlackWomen #BlackWomenMatter #DomesticViolence #SexualAssault #MentalHealthAwareness #BreakTheStigma #EndTheSilence #SpeakOut #SupportSurvivors #RacismAndSexism #Intersectionality
Florida's housing crisis has been a growing concern in recent years, affecting a wide range of communities throughout the state. Among those hit the hardest are victims of domestic and sexual violence, who often face unique challenges when seeking safe and stable housing. In this podcast, we will explore the root causes of Florida's housing crisis, including systemic poverty, discrimination, and limited affordable housing options. We will also examine the ways in which the housing crisis has a disproportionate impact on victims of domestic and sexual violence, who are often forced to remain in abusive situations due to lack of affordable housing options.
Joe spent the first two years of his legal career as an Equal Justice Works Fellow practicing Community Lawyering for immigrant families. He has since transitioned such efforts into housing discrimination enforcement and outreach, where he manages Florida Legal Services' Fair Housing Initiative Project via the HUD funded FHOI/EOI programs. He has a bachelor's degree from DePaul University, a M.A. from the University of Colorado in Public Policy, and a J.D. from the University of Florida, Levin College of Law.
Since graduating from the University of Florida in 2007, Erika Recek has spent most of her legal career working in public interest law, ensuring that individuals in vulnerable situations have a voice in the judicial process. She has worked at various legal aid organizations, helping survivors of domestic violence with legal issues involving injunctions, family law related matters, housing, and consumer law issues. Erika joined Florida Legal Services in 2018, where she has continued to assist survivors of domestic violence in her role as Director of Survivor Advocacy while also engaging in systemic impact advocacy for vulnerable populations.
FloridaHousingCrisis #DomesticViolence #SexualViolence #AffordableHousing
Previously on this podcast we presented a four-part mini-podcasting series focusing on issues affecting Black and African American Communities, and ways we can advocate for Black survivors of Trauma and Sexual Violence. The mini-series covered topics like mental health within Black communities, anti-racism and therapy, racial trauma and black survivors, and implicit bias. On this week's podcast, we will be taking a step back and discussing Mental Healthcare and the BIPOC Community. Join VSC Community Engagement Coordinator, Libba Van Eepoel, as they chat with Therapist Natasha Ganesh-D'Arcangelo and VSC Therapy Intern, May Figueroa, to chat about client and counselor representation, how lack of access can impact BIPOC individuals seeking mental healthcare, how stigmas can play a role in that, and advice on how to find a therapist.
Natasha Ganesh-D’Arcangelo (she/her) is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida, Oregon and Washington, a Florida Qualified Supervisor, a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional (CCFP). She works with adolescents and adults in her role as a staff therapist for Headspace Health. She operates from a cultural humility perspective and is an ally of the LGTBQIA+ community. She is especially passionate about working with clients who are struggling with trauma and anxiety and does public speaking on the topic of burnout.
Mary Figueroa (she/her) is currently pursuing an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a certificate in Family and Relationship Therapy. She is a therapy intern at VSC, and serves local counseling associations in FL as a Student Liaison for the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida (MHCCF), a Marketing Coordinator for the Central Florida Association for Family and Marriage Therapy (CFAMFT). She is trained as a Clinical Trauma Professional, has completed training in Mindfulness Stress Reduction Techniques, and most recently started EMDR training. She believes that every individual holds a capacity for resilience and that those personal strengths are already within, and strives to create a compassionate, non-judgmental space that honors diverse and intersecting identities, and allows for a collaborative alliance.
Books mentioned:
The Racial Healing Handbook by Anneliese A. Singh
Anti-Racist Psychotherapy by David Archer
White Women: Everything You Already Know About Your Own Racism and How to Do Better by Regina Jackson and Saira Rao
See more resources mentioned on our Facebook page, VSCFlorida!
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956 7273. By contacting the National hotline at 1 800 656 4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
It’s possible you’ve heard of ACE’s (Adverse Childhood Experiences) and the impact they have on people in their adult lives. The CDC started conducting ACE studies in the mid-90s and today we know that nearly 60% of adults have experienced one type of ACE. On the newest episode of the VSC Podcast, we sit down with Center for Child Counseling's National Outreach Coordinator, Cherie Benjoseph, and Nida Paul, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with Center for Child Counseling, to talk about what ACEs are, how trauma impacts the way we parent, and some things parents who are survivors can do to help teach regulation to children while also taking care of themselves.
Cherie Benjoseph, LCSW (she/her) is the National Outreach Coordinator for the Center for Child Counseling, of Palm Beach County, FL. She is an expert on child sexual abuse primary prevention, with a focus on customizing training and curriculum for school, camp, and other youth serving organizations as well as reaching parents with practical tools to keep their children safe from child sexual abuse and exploitation.
Nida Paul (she/her) is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, National Certified Counselor and Registered Play Therapist who has worked with children and families since 2010. Nida is passionate about working with children and families who experienced trauma and helping them heal from these adverse experiences. She provides individual, group, dyadic, and family therapy and focuses on providing trauma focused treatments to children and parents who suffer from post-traumatic stress and attachment issues. She also provides trainings for caregivers and providers in variety of topics including impact of Trauma and ACEs on children to help adults promote resiliency in children.
Interested in learning more? The Center for Child Counseling provides free online workshops, tips sheets, advice for ways to talk to children, resources for parents and children, as well as information on trauma-informed care and their KidSafe program.
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
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Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
In this episode, VSC's Violence Prevention Educator, Hannah Jenarine, and Senior Advocate, Jocelyn Rayas, explore the power of assertive communication for survivors of violence. We discuss the impact of trauma on communication and provide practical tips and strategies for survivors to find their voice and assert their needs and boundaries. Our goal is to empower survivors to reclaim control over their lives through assertiveness and to promote healing and justice. Whether you are a survivor yourself, or supporting someone you care about, this video will provide you with valuable insights and skills to navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience.
assertivecommunication
Trigger Warning: In this podcast, we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
In this episode, VSC's Violence Prevention Educator, Hannah Jenarine speaks with VSC's Crisis Counselor, Nicola Prichard on what toxic masculinity is and why it matters. We explore the negative impact of toxic masculinity on not only men, but also on the society as a whole. We delve into the various ways in which toxic masculinity manifests itself in everyday life, from the pressure to conform to traditional gender roles to the suppression of emotions and vulnerability. We also examine the damaging effects of toxic masculinity on mental health and relationships. The video also provides insights on how to recognize and challenge toxic masculinity, and how to promote a healthier, more positive understanding of masculinity. This is a must-watch for anyone looking to better understand the impact of toxic masculinity and how to work towards creating a more equitable and healthy society for all.
Link: https://ncadv.org/STATISTICS
toxicmasculinity #genderroles
Trigger Warning: In this podcast, we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Abusive relationships don’t start off that way.
In the beginning, there is intense love, passion, and intimacy. The abuser portrays themselves as someone who is devoted, committed, and incredibly romantic; however, over time, these individuals gradually start to become manipulative, controlling, and cruel. Abusers seek to gain or maintain power and control over a partner. They either believe their feelings and needs should be the priority in the relationship or, they just enjoy exerting that kind of domination over another.
In this episode, VSC's violence prevention educator, Hannah Jenarine speaks with Monica May about domestic violence and Monica provides more insight into what a domestic relationship entails, the effects it has, and how a victim can rebuild their self-esteem after an abuser has broken it down.
Monica May is a consultant for Monica May Communications, founder of Let’s Spill the Tea a nonprofit organization, and an amazing radio host for “Point of View”, a community-focused talk show, and “Soul School Sunday”, a reminiscent music set, which both air on STAR 94.5.
domesticviolencesurvivor #emotionalabuse #physicalabuse
Trigger Warning: In this podcast, we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
We are already in the last week of December and while this time signifies an ending of a season or chapter in our lives, it can also bring up past memories and negative emotions. Remembering and reliving traumatic experiences through our thoughts and also feeling pressured to have news years resolutions can make us feel anxious, depressed, and stressed
In today’s episode, VSC's Violence Prevention Educator, Hannah Jenarine, shares 5 ways to prioritize your mental health, manage stress, and heal from trauma during the holidays.
findinghopeaftertrauma
In this episode, VSC's Education Coordinator, Hannah Jenarine, speaks with Ralph Reinert on the silence of child sexual assault and how he was able to heal his childhood sexual abuse and trauma.
Ralph is 74 years old, a Retired Corporate Executive, Father of 2, Grandfather of 5, and a Marine Veteran from 1968-1972. He loves to volunteer (fun fact: he is one of VSC's most active volunteers), and he loves to travel!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast, we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
childsexualabuse #malesexualabuse #sexualassaultsurvivor
In this episode, VSC’s Education and Prevention Coordinator, Hannah Jenarine, speaks with Diana Oakley, a sexual assault survivor on how to stay empowered after a sexual assault. She shares more about dealing with sexual assault years later in her life and some healing techniques that have helped her throughout her journey.
Diana Oakley is a professional speaker and author. She is a member of RAINN's Speakers Bureau, as well as the Victim Service Center of Central Florida's Speakers Bureau. Her book, Intended Harm has been utilized by universities, victim service agencies, law enforcement agencies, various ministries, and other organizations who work to bring public awareness of sexual assault and the effects it has on its victims.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
empoweredaftersexualassault #sexualassaultcase #sexualassaultsurvivor
Now that the holidays are approaching, in this podcast episode, VSC's Education and Prevention Coordinator, Hannah Jenarine chats with Lainey Dorris and Rachel Stachler on how victims of trauma can survive the holidays.
Lainey is a 2022-2023 clinical intern and currently in the MSW program at UCF. In her first year of the program, she interned as a case management intern at the Seminole County Public Defender’s office and is looking forward to understanding another side of the legal system at VSC. She has a bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA. She decided to pursue a career in social work because she is energized by helping others solve problems, working collaboratively in her community, and being a positive presence. She is excited to serve this community!
Rachel graduated from Florida State University with her Bachelor of Social Work and is currently attending the University of Central Florida to obtain her Master of Social Work. Rachel completed her graduate internship at Victim Service Center as a crisis counselor and victim advocate intern. Prior to her time at VSC, Rachel interned at Brehon House in Tallahassee, FL as a case management intern for women who were homeless and pregnant. Rachel is passionate about assisting individuals along their healing journeys after experiencing trauma. In her free time, Rachel likes to relax at the beach with a good book.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
In this episode, VSC's Education and Prevention Coordinator, Hannah Jenarine chats with Child Sexual Abuse Survivor, Tracy Kelly on how she was able to take back her power from this traumatic situation.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
This week we have a VERY special guest, Natasha Mc Coy who is a child sexual abuse survivor and living testimony. In this episode, VSC's Education and Prevention Training Coordinator, Hannah Jenarine, speaks with Natasha on how she was able to take back her power after a sexual assault.
Natasha McCoy is a Licensed Occupational Therapist, providing service professionally in this capacity for the past eight (13) years.
She earned both her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy and Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology at New York University, preceded by her Associate in Arts with Honors at Borough of Manhattan Community College. Natasha has worked in settings such as Hospitals Acute Care and Inpatient Rehabilitation, Mental Health, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Pediatric Outpatient Clinic, School and Home Care, performing Home Evaluations, Community re-entry and Wheel-Chair assessments; Professional development of level one and level two students. Before beginning her career in Occupational therapy, Natasha was a Special Education Head-Start Pre-School teacher in New York City.
Natasha returned to and resided in Trinidad for four years from 2013-2017, joining a small team of clinicians who provided therapy that was under-resourced on the twin islands. She was also an advocate for Autism Awareness, Cerebral Palsy Association and raising government support for people with disabilities.
She also operated a Private Practice, The Occupational Therapy Sanctuary, located in St. Joseph Trinidad, where she evaluated and treated Adults and Pediatric clients presenting with various congenital and acquired cognitive and physical disabilities. She became a trained lecturer and Student advisor for the first Master’s in Occupational Therapy Program on the island; being licensed both in Trinidad and Tobago and the United States. While residing in Trinidad as a healthcare professional, Natasha functioned as a:
Member: Council of Professions Related to Medicine in Trinidad and Tobago.
Member: Board of Speech Language Therapy and Occupational Therapy in Trinidad and Tobago
Member: Association of Caribbean Occupational Therapist (ACOT)
Member: Trinidad and Tobago Occupational Therapy Association (TTOTA)
Achievements: Editor’s Choice Award from The National Library of Poetry, 1997
Faculty Honors Award for Academic Performance (Dean’s List), 1999
Faculty Honors Convocation Award for Academic Performance, 2003
She currently resides in Florida, working at The Orlando Hospital of Veterans’ Affairs.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
This week, we are talking about self-care and ongoing wellness. VSC's Education and Prevention Coordinator, Hannah Jenarine, talks with Mental Health Counselor, Stepfan Jones on how survivors of trauma can prioritize their overall well-being.
Stepfan Jones enjoys working with all types of individuals in various walks of life. He has worked with individuals with depression, anxiety, and anger issues to name a few. Working to help individuals cope with life's challenges. he has also spent time in the school system working with adolescents with school issues and life challenges, and college students as a spiritual counselor and life coach. His latest journey has been working with individuals who wrestle with substance use challenges.
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Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
This week we are talking about trauma-based relationships and how to develop healthy connections with others. Join Hannah Jenarine, Education and Prevention Coordinator as she discusses trauma-bonds, red flags, and self-awareness with Leslie Pender.
Leslie Pender is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida and the private practice owner of Seeds of Transition Counseling Services, LLC which is in the Metrowest area of Orlando, FL. Ms. Pender earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science with a concentration in Sociology from the University of Maryland University College and her Master of Science degree from Capella University in Mental Health Counseling. It was during her residency for licensure that Ms. Pender began to focus her research on social justice advocacy and cultural competency within the mental health counseling field. Ms. Pender’s work as a LMHC has consisted of collaborative work with the Florida Department of Children and Families and other agencies in which she has advocated for practices and policies that provide mental health services for children and families within the foster care system from a trauma-informed care and culturally competent perspective. Ms. Pender is a member of Chi Sigma Iota (International Honor Society for Counseling Students, Counseling Educators and Professional Counselors), the American Counseling Association, the Florida Counseling Association and Black Therapists Rock in which she engages with other counseling professionals locally, nationally and internationally to help eradicate the stigma as it relates to mental health and mental illness, especially within communities of color. As the wife of an Army veteran, Ms. Pender is an advocate for increasing awareness of the impact of post-traumatic stress on the marital relationship and family dynamic of the veteran.
In addition to providing therapy services, Ms. Pender provides and has conducted workshops on self-care, stress management, women’s empowerment and guided vision planning. Ms. Pender’s philosophy towards therapy is that one must approach therapy from a holistic perspective and that having a consistent self-care regimen is vital to achieving and maintaining optimum emotional, spiritual, physical and mental wellness.
----------------------------------- Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
This month, we are discussing Anti-LGBTQ+ Hate Crimes . Join VSC LGBTQ+ Advocate Roxane Perret as she chats with Brandon Wolf, a survivor of the Pulse Nightclub Tragedy, and the Press Secretary for Equality Florida, and Eli Coston, a faculty member of the Department of Gender, Sexuality and Women’s Studies at Virginia Commonwealth University. In this episode, we will discuss what hate crimes are, who are most often the target, how to end violence against LGBTQ+ individuals and more.
Brandon Wolf’s pronouns are he/him and he is a survivor of the 2016 Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando. He is also a national advocate for LGBTQ civil rights and gun safety reform. He is the co-founder and Board Vice President of The Dru Project, a nonprofit organization that creates safe spaces in schools for LGBTQ youth, provides college funding, and empowers champions in the fight for equality. He also serves on the Boards of the One Orlando Alliance and the National Organization for Victims Assistance.
Dr. Eli Coston’s pronouns are they/them. Eli is an activist-scholar who received their PhD in Sociology from Stony Brook University, specializing in Criminology, Gender and Sexuality, and Race and Ethnicity. Their research examines how the intersections of race, class, and gender create differing experiences of marginalization and oppression for people who are LGBTQ. Eli’s research identified that there was an urgent need for better data on anti-LGBTQ hate crimes.
To stay up to date with Brandon, follow him on:
Instagram: @brandonjwolf
Twitter: @bjoewolf
Equality Florida: @equalityfl
Follow Eli on Twitter: @elicoston
https://gsws.vcu.edu/people/coston-1.html
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
This Disability Pride month we wanted to uplift the experiences of trans disabled individuals. Join VSC LGBTQ+ Advocate Roxane Perret as she chats with Basically Wonderful Founder and Director, Beck DeTrempe and Basically Wonderful Peer Supporter, Caroline Pittman about different disability related terms, some myths about disability, the intersections of being transgender and disabled, what disability pride means and more.
Beck DeTrempe uses they/them pronouns. They are a 25 year old queer non-binary disabled person living in Orlando, Florida. Beck is the founder and director of Basically Wonderful, an organization that creates peer-led accessible spaces that are welcoming to disabled and LGBTQIA+ folks. They have created and facilitated multiple spaces for disabled folks, including a peer support group, virtual social meetup, and book club; along with a book club for trans folks, and community events throughout the year. Beck is also a founding member of Access Pride Coalition, a disabled queer + trans collective that uplifts and creates access-centered spaces while advocating for queer disability justice.
Caroline Pittman uses she/they pronouns. They are 25 years old. She is Trans/Non-binary, Bi, Pansexual, Chilean American, & Mentally-ill, Mad, Neurodivergent. They have their Bachelor of Sciences (B.S.) degree in Psychology from UCF. Caroline is a Certified Recovery Peer Specialist (CRPS), and she currently works as a Peer Support Facilitator & Individual Peer Supporter for Peer Support Space, as well as a Peer Support Facilitator for Basically Wonderful. In their spare time, they enjoy creating art, creative writing, reading, listening to music, practicing spirituality/astrology, thrift shopping, being in nature, & mindfully moving their body with yoga or hiking.
To stay up to date with Basically Wonderful:
Check out their website https://www.basicallywonderful.online/
Follow them on Instagram at basically1derful
Stay up to date with Access Pride Coalition:
Follow them on Instagram at accesspridecoalition
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel:
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Hello VSC Podcast listeners! It is bittersweet to share that our VSC Podcast host Emilie Mitchell (she/her) is departing the Victim Service Center of Central Florida to pursue her Master's of Arts Degree in Marriage and Family therapy.
Before she officially signs off as the VSC Podcast Host, she wanted to share a message of thanks to VSC Podcast guests and listeners - thank you!!
We are also excited to announce that the VSC Podcast will continue! Please look forward to hearing from Roxane (she/her), Libba (she/they), and Kaylyn (she/her) in episodes coming soon.
Thanks everyone!
This Pride month we wanted to reflect on why thoughtful representation matters. Join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell and VSC LGBTQ+ Advocate Roxane Perret as they chat with Orlando Filmmaker Mel Turnage about Trans Representation in Film, its importance, and ways we can be better allies and supporters for Trans folks.
Roxane Perret (she/her) earned her Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology from the University of Central Florida in 2021. She is currently in the Master’s of Social Work program at UCF and is set to graduate in Summer 2024. She was a volunteer with the VSC for two years and is now the LGBTQ+ Advocate.
Mel Turnage (she/her) is an Orlando filmmaker who is currently pursuing a master’s degree in film production at the University of Central Florida. Mel is predominantly a screenwriter and director, and additionally specializes in film journalism and criticism. Her research interests are in queer film, particularly New Queer and New Trans Cinema. Mel conducted her undergraduate thesis on the Trans New Wave of films.
To follow Mel and her work:
@CadenToMyHazel on twitter
OCUPADO - YouTube
The browser extension Mel mentions:
https://shinigami-eyes.github.io/
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/b3_hLxB_7Ys
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On the newest episode of the VSC Podcast we discuss the intersections of poverty and trauma. Join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell as she chats with two amazing people from United Against Poverty Paemla Rivera and Jay Silvagnoli as well as VSC’s Paola Kalb to chat about myths surrounding poverty, how poverty can affect survivors of trauma, and ways we can all help support those experiencing poverty.
Paola Kalb uses she/her/ella pronouns and is the Victim Compensation Specialist at the Victim Service Center. She is also starting her MSW program at UCF in August. She is focused on the intersectionality of poverty and trauma and is passionate about social justice.
Pamela Rivera uses she/her pronouns and joined UP Orlando as Programs Director in 2021. She holds a Master’s Degree in Human Services and is a Certified Child Welfare Case Manager. Mrs. Rivera oversees Crisis Stabilization, Emergency Food Pantry, Workforce Development and Education initiatives. She has over 20 years of experience in Human Services while working with diverse populations. Her passions include helping clients overcome adversity through strength-based approaches that empower them to make positive life choices to reach their full potential.
Jaye Silvagnoli uses she/her pronouns and joined United Against Poverty in August of 2019 as the Intake Coordinator. In 2021 was promoted to Crisis Navigator and in 2022 to the current position. She has an AS in Information Technology, a BS in Health Sciences, and currently is acquiring a Master degree in Nonprofit Management and Public Administration. Jaye oversees the intake process and crisis navigation at the Life Enrichment Center of UAP, by providing wrap around services and referrals for participants in need.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/weMrNjlAbK4
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
As we close out Mental Health Awareness Month, join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell as she chats with Baker Center for Children and Families’s Dr. Rachel Kim and VSC Program Director JoEllen Revell about Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and how it can help youth process their trauma.
Dr. Rachel Kim uses she/her pronouns and is a clinical psychologist and the Director of Implementation at the Baker Center for Children and Families. Her work focuses on the dissemination and implementation of evidence-based practice (EBPs) for underserved youth in community settings.
JoEllen Revell uses she/her pronouns and is the Victim Service Center Program Director who oversees the Advocacy, Therapy and Forensic Nursing Department. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years’ experience in clinical and administrative oversight.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/cZzGaAu1X-U
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
With the new Marvel show Moon Knight, Dissociative Identity Disorder or DID is being talked about a lot in the media, but is it a proper representation? In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell as she chats with VSC therapist Michelle Langrock and Jen who has DID along with her partner Sarah as they dispel myths around this Mental Health Condition, how it is related to trauma, how well Moon Knight represented DID, and ways we can be better allies and supporters.
Michelle Langrock uses she/her pronouns and is one of our therapists at the VSC. Michelle recently attended Rollins College and completed her Master’s of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a Certificate in Family and Relationship Therapy. She is passionate about serving the community in a way that promotes individual healing and growth, fosters fulfilling interpersonal relationships, and increases social equality.
Jen uses she/her/they/them/he/him pronouns and is a DID system of 18. She has been working toward functional multiplicity since discovering her system four years ago. As part of her work she hopes to bring awareness about DID through sharing her journey with her local community as well as on social media.
Sarah uses she/her pronouns and is Jen's partner, supporter and a fierce advocate for the DID community, as well as for fellow supporters of loved ones with DID. She is a peer educator who teaches about DID and dispels myths so that it can be better understood and more healing can happen.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/Ndify5YU6g8
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On this week’s podcast join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell as she chats more about Romance scams with Advocate Rebecca D’Antonio and ScamHaters United Founder Ruth Grover. Learn about the emotional impacts love fraud can have on survivors, what healing can look like, and how amazing resources like ScamHaters United can help.
Rebecca D’Antonio uses she/her pronouns and was the victim of a Romance Scam. Survivor turned Advocate she now shares her story to give a voice for those still voiceless. While building awareness for this unconscionable crime she strives to create change. To break the infrastructure that allows scammers to operate. To update laws for the changing times; and to create resources for victims and survivors to obtain the help they need so they can tell their own story and rebuild their lives.
Ruth Grover uses she/her pronouns and resides in the United Kingdom.
She has been a widow for 14 years, her husband was a Police Officer and when he died Ruth became a target for romance fraudsters. She was shocked to discover Scams that used manipulation and romance to steal money from anyone they can target. ScamHaters United is a resource to learn from, to see who they are using and what they say and do.
From ScamHaters United: Come to us for advice and questions about that online person you have never met. We would love to make a big difference! When the money stops, the scams will stop! We are a group of women from around the world who care !
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
What do you think of when you hear the word Scam? Did you know according to the FTC, in the last 5 years people have reported losing 1.3 billion dollars to Romance Scams - more than any other type of fraud category? On this week’s podcast Join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell as she chats with Advocate Rebecca D’Antonio and anonymous Amy Gdala from Securewomen.org about Romance Scams, the effects they can have on victims, and ways we can be incredible supporters.
Rebecca D’Antonio uses she/her pronouns and was the victim of a Romance Scam. Survivor turned Advocate she now shares her story to give a voice for those still voiceless. While building awareness for this unconscionable crime she strives to create change. To break the infrastructure that allows scammers to operate. To update laws for the changing times; and to create resources for victims and survivors to obtain the help they need so they can tell their own story and rebuild their lives.
Amy Gdala goes by she/her/they/them pronouns and is the anonymous-styled alias of a crime fighting force that is a collective, powered by many victim survivors who work together and are out for justice. Fighting crime is dangerous. Through Amy Gdala, Secure Women moves with agility while protecting and empowering brave victim leaders to fight back.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/cCjJJpsNsgo
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
If you or someone you know needs help please reach out to securewomen.org and/or Scam Haters United.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Today is #denimday ! Denim day is an international movement that encourages people to wear denim to show they are against victim blaming and believe survivors and their stories. On this week’s podcast Join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell as she chats with VSC Advocate Nicola Prichard and VSC Advocacy intern Rachel Stachler about Victim Blaming, why we blame the victim as a society, and ways we can properly support survivors and help change the culture.
Nicola Prichard uses she/her pronouns and graduated from the University of Florida with her Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She is one of VSC’s Victim Advocates and is graduating with her Master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Central Florida later next month. After graduating, she plans on working to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and intends to continue working with individuals who have experienced trauma.
Rachel Stachler uses she/her pronouns and is a graduate student at the University of Central Florida pursuing her Master’s of Social Work. She received her Bachelor’s of Social Work from Florida State University in 2021. Through FSU, Rachel obtained experience working with underserved women living at a maternity home for homeless, pregnant women and their children. Rachel is passionate about helping survivors process and heal from traumatic experiences so that they are able to have happy and fulfilling lives. Rachel is a victim advocate intern at the VSC and provides crisis counseling to clients as well as co-facilitates VSC's virtual women's support group.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/qe0kzjq8G8Q
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Vulnerability is a strength! On this week’s podcast Join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell as she chats with two amazing mental health professionals from Positive Behavioral Solutions Paula Lupton and Juanita Carbajal to chat about the power of genuine connection and vulnerability as it relates to healing.
Paula Lupton, LCSW uses she/her pronouns and is Head of Clinical Operations at Positive Behavioral Solutions. She has been in the field of social work for over 19 years in the Central Florida Area and is specialized in working with trauma informed systems, LGBTQ+ clients and their rights, child welfare, working with individuals in crisis, and building strong communities. As a native of Orlando her focus has been on strengthening the community through education and increasing awareness of mental health as well as sharing her passion for working with expressive arts as a medium for healing. Paula is currently a fellowship student at Crealde Art school with a focus on abstract art and facilitate the Creative Conscious group bi monthly here at PBS. Her favorite self-care activities are reading, traveling, painting, and crafting.
Juanita Carbajal, BA uses she/her/ella pronouns and is the Marketing & Community Relations Director at Positive Behavioral Solutions. She has over eight years experience working in the mental health community and is passionate about educating communities and reducing the stigma affiliated with Mental Health. Juanita is currently a graduate student in the Masters of Public Health Program at the University of Florida, and also teaches beginners yoga at Altamonte Springs Yoga studio. Her favorite self-care activities are running, traveling, Disney, and yoga.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/6Y_KPigAhWU
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
It’s Sexual Assault Awareness Month - a time to uplift conversations around sexual violence and learn more about this incredibly important issue. Did you know Women with disabilities are 3x more likely to be physically or sexually assaulted than able-bodied women? On this week’s podcast we discuss Sexual Violence and Persons with Disabilities. Join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell as she chats with Advocate and Central Florida CIL Ambassador Abigail Hucker and VSC Intern Ceaira Nutter to chat about sexual violence within the disability community and how we can be better supporters.
Abigail Hucker uses she/her pronouns and after suffering a stroke before birth that killed 95 percent of the right side her brain she was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. Though Abigail has limited use of her left side she has not let that get in the way of living a relatively normal life. Now a Central Florida resident Abigail Hucker serves as an ambassador for the Central Florida Center for Independent Living (CIL) to continue advocating for the differently abled and helping to spread disability awareness in today's society.
Ceaira Nutter uses she/her pronouns and is one of or interns at the VSC where she supports and leads the VSC Accessibility Committee - a group of professionals across different Florida agencies that service victims and survivors with the mission to ensure survivors with disabilities have proper access to those services. Ceaira is currently pursuing her Bachelors in Social Work from the University of Central Florida and is graduating in May.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/nwkmjXaPON0
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Today is Start By Believing Day!! We are so excited to be hosting Alison Jones-Lockwood to talk about The Start By Believing Campaign on today’s Podcast. Join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell, VSC Executive Director Lui Damiani, and Alison to talk about the history and importance of this campaign as well as the impact believing can have on survivors when they share their stories and sexual assault prevention.
Alison Jones-Lockwood uses she/her pronouns and is nationally recognized for her expertise in designing community-specific collaborative protocols to address sexual violence. With over 20 years’ experience managing and assisting victim advocacy programs, Ms. Jones-Lockwood has trained extensively on the criminal justice response to sexual assault, including the impact of sexual assault in the aftermath. She has trained countless advocates, law enforcement personnel, and healthcare professionals in local, regional, statewide, and national trainings. Ms. Jones-Lockwood began her career working with survivors and advocates within the U.S. Navy, and has worked for rape crisis centers in California, Kansas, and Missouri
Lui Damiani uses he/him pronouns and is the Executive Director of the Victim Service Center of Central Florida, a nonprofit organization that provides 24/7 individualized services and resources to victims of sexual assault, violent crime and other traumatic circumstances. His professional career in business and public service spans more than 30 years. He has served the Central Florida community as a County Commissioner, corporate executive, small business owner, governmental manager, television host and homeowner’s association president.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/GkpE7WQ7A4A
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
There is no correct way to respond to trauma and on this week’s Podcast VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sits down with two of VSC’s Advocacy Interns Nicola Prichard and Rachel Stachler to talk about common reactions to trauma, myths and stigmas survivors face in regards to trauma responses, and ways we can be better supporters through normalizing the individuality of trauma and healing.
Rachel Stachler uses she/her pronouns and is a graduate student at the University of Central Florida pursuing her Master’s of Social Work. She received her Bachelor’s of Social Work from Florida State University in 2021. Through FSU, Rachel obtained experience working with underserved women living at a maternity home for homeless, pregnant women and their children. Rachel is passionate about helping survivors process and heal from traumatic experiences so that they are able to have happy and fulfilling lives. Rachel is a victim advocate intern at the VSC and provides crisis counseling to clients as well as co-facilitates VSC's virtual women's support group.
Nicola Prichard uses she/her pronouns and graduated from the University of Florida with her Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She is one of VSC’s advocacy interns and is currently a graduate student in the Master’s of Social Work Program at the University of Central Florida. After graduating, she plans on working to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and intends to continue working with individuals who have experienced trauma.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/DDwPhEP0FEE
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On this week’s Podcast we are excited to be joined by Author Karen Moe to chat about her work Victim: A Feminist Manifesto from a Fierce Survivor. Join Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell and VSC Program Director JoEllen Revell who sit down with Karen Moe to chat about her book, what she wants readers to gain from her writing, and how she chose her title as well as hear her read an excerpt!
Karen Moe uses she/her pronouns and is an art critic, visual and performance artist, author and feminist activist. Her work focuses on systemic violence in patriarchy: be it gender, race, the environment or speciesism. Her art criticism has been published internationally in magazines, anthologies and artist catalogs in English and Spanish and she has exhibited and performed across Canada, in the US and in Mexico. She is the founder of the Vigilance Fierce Feminisms Magazine. Karen lives in Mexico City and British Columbia, Canada.
JoEllen Revell uses she/her pronouns and is the Victim Service Center Program Director who oversees the Advocacy, Therapy and Forensic Nursing Department. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years’ experience in clinical and administrative oversight.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/visfDe_kmLM
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Victim: A Feminist Manifesto from a Fierce Survivor is available for presale on: Amazon, IndieBound, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, Google Play, and Bookshop.org
You can find out more about Karen's book at https://karenmoeauthor.com/ and about her upcoming US April tour for Sexual Assault Awareness Month
at https://karenmoeauthor.com/events/. When you sign up for her newsletter to keep up on more podcasts, interviews, readings and promotions and get the first 21-page preview.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On the 104th Episode of the VSC Podcast join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell as she chats with DV/IPV Expert Dr. CarolAnn Peterson and Help Now of Osceola’s Outreach Services Director Evelyn Herrera-Jackson to chat about Strangulation - an often overlooked and extremely dangerous aspect of Intimate Partner Violence.
Dr. Peterson uses she/her pronouns, is a former Full-time Lecturer at the University of Southern California, and joined the School of Social Work in January 2004 where she taught a course on domestic violence that she created, and taught leadership, diversity, policy & advocacy, and global violence against women. She is the author of “Interpersonal Aggression: Complexities of domestic and intimate partner abuse” and is a certified National Expert Witness on Strangulation Prevention. Dr. Peterson was appointed to the Los Angeles City Mayor’s DV Steering Committee. This committee oversaw the research design of a needs assessment, with funding provided by Blue Shield of California Foundation; and reviewed the final report.
Evelyn Hererra-Jackson uses she/her pronouns and has been employed with Help Now of Osceola, Inc. since 1998. She earned her undergraduate degree at Hofstra University and obtained a Masters of Science in Education with an emphasis in Counseling Multicultural Groups from State University of NY, College at Brockport. As the Outreach Services Director for Help Now of Osceola, Inc., she has facilitated numerous workshops on domestic violence, teen dating violence, sexual violence, drug addictions, and cultural diversity.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/BROvOnvsMQA
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
How are social media platforms like TikTok being used to groom children? Come join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell as she chats with Children’s Advocacy Center’s Ann Pimentel-Kerr and former VSC Intern Mahnaz Asif to chat about Online Grooming, what signs to look out for, the effects of sexual abuse, and ways we can help prevent grooming and abuse.
Ann Pimentel-Kerr uses she/her pronouns and is the Children’s Advocacy Center Specialist at the Children Advocacy Center in Central Florida. Ann has over 25 years of experience working with children & families, and in the social services/child welfare arena. Her experience includes working with children and adults in psychiatric facilities, DCF child abuse investigations, supervision, and many years as a child welfare trainer.
Mahnaz Asif uses she/her pronouns and is a third year graduate student at Rollins completing her masters in clinical mental health counseling. She completed her pre-practicum therapy internship here at the VSC. Mahnaz recently wrote a blog for the VSC on Online Grooming and is passionate about preventing child sexual abuse. In the future, she plans to work with children and families experiencing trauma.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/UqZpYrOUvsw
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Check out Mahnaz’s blog here: https://www.victimservicecenter.org/grooming-how-can-we-protect-children-from-online-grooming/
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
How can we better support survivors? Come join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell as she chats with VSC Victim Advocate Priscilla Aquino and VSC Therapist Orialis Sosa to chat revictimization and its possible impacts, what we can say and avoid saying when someone discloses about their trauma, and ways supporters can practice self-care.
Priscilla Aquino uses she/her pronouns and is a Bilingual Victim Advocate and Crisis Counselor at the VSC who is fluent in Spanish. She obtained her Master’s in Social Work from Kean University in NJ and has over 20 years of experience working with adolescence families, and victims of crime. Priscilla is very passionate about helping people heal from their trauma and rediscover their inner-strength as well as educating others. She hopes to be the voice for those who are unable to advocate for themselves.
Orialis Sosa uses she/her pronouns and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She earned her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Central Florida. Orialis’ background consists of providing counseling and victim advocacy support to survivors of crime and trauma. In her current role, she provides counseling support to high school students and is one of VSC’s contract therapists.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/d7uoVLB-vLM
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
It’s Black History Month and on this week’s Podcast we are joined by Gail Gardner who is making history! Come join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell as she chats with VSC Program Director JoEllen Revell and VSC Speaker’s Bureau Member Gail Gardner to chat about Gail’s Law and how Gail is spearheading and advocating for the rights of survivors of sexual assault.
Gail Gardner is a member of VSC's Speaker's Bureau and is an author of two books: "Woman to Woman: Gleaning Inspirational Insight from our Biblical Mothers" and "Healing Scriptures: Declaring and Affirming God's Love." As a survivor of Sexual Assault and Abuse, Gail is passionate about mentoring women through engagement, faith, encouragement, inspiration, and empowerment.
JoEllen Revell uses she/her pronouns and is the Victim Service Center Program Director who oversees the Advocacy, Therapy and Forensic Nursing Department. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years’ experience in clinical and administrative oversight.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/P2m9bZjHDys
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
It’s the 100th Episode of the VSC Podcast!! Come join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell as she chats with VSC Executive Director Lui Damiani and VSC Board Member and former Board Chair Craig Swygert to talk about the story of the VSC, how they got involved in this work, how this organization has grown and overcome challenges, and why rape crisis centers like the VSC are so important for our communities.
Craig Swygert uses he/him pronouns, is the current Branch President of Clear Channel Outdoor, and currently serves on the board of directors at the VSC. Advocacy and having an ability to make an impact in the community he grew up in is something he holds close to him.
Lui Damiani uses he/him pronouns and is the Executive Director of the Victim Service Center of Central Florida, a nonprofit organization that provides 24/7 individualized services and resources to victims of sexual assault, violent crime and other traumatic circumstances.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/IdczHvle-V8
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
How can Social Media be used as a Prevention tool? On the 99th episode of the VSC Podcast Emilie Mitchell sits down with Colorado Coalition for the Homeless’s Digital Communications Manager Shannan Webster and VSC Marketing and Outreach Specialist Kyle Fray to chat about the power of Social Media in helping end violence.
Shannan Webster uses she/her pronouns and is the former Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator with VSC where she managed our social media and community engagement for 3 years. She recently moved to Colorado and currently works at the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless as their Digital Communications Manager. Shannan is passionate about advancing social justice and utilizing technology to educate and raise awareness. Shannan is a proud dog mom and enjoys trivia game shows and vegan cooking in her free time.
Kyle Fray uses he/him pronouns and is the Marketing and Outreach Specialist at the VSC. Kyle received his Bachelor of Science from the University of Florida in Public Relations. Advocacy and having an ability to make an impact in the community he grew up in is something he holds close to him. He has experience working public relations both agency side and in-house. In his free time, he enjoys listening to music, playing video games and traveling around the country to play with his club Frisbee team.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/LaDEtJcI1XE
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
How does language and the way we talk about rape perpetuate it? On the 98th episode of the VSC Podcast Emilie Mitchell sits down with two amazing VSC interns Miles Poola-or and Nicola Prichard to chat about how language and the way we talk about rape as a society, on an interpersonal level, in the news, etc. can contribute to rape culture and ways we can mindfully change the language we use to help end sexual violence.
Miles Poola-Or uses he/him pronouns and is one of our Therapy Interns at the VSC. Miles is originally from Thailand where he received a BA in English. In 2019, he received a Master’s of Arts in Applied Linguistics from Columbia University in the City of New York where he developed his passion for the relationship between language and mind. Currently, he’s pursuing his Master’s of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Rollins College where he is also pursuing a Certification in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Nicola Prichard uses she/her pronouns and graduated from the University of Florida with her Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She is one of VSC’s advocacy interns and is currently a graduate student in the Master’s of Social Work Program at the University of Central Florida. After graduating, she plans on working to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and intends to continue working with individuals who have experienced trauma.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/DQs5WwygVyQ
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
We are so excited to be sitting down with one of VSC’s own SANE nurses and now best-selling author Marie McKenzie to chat about her book Things That Keep Me Up At Night! On the newest episode of the VSC Podcast Emilie Mitchell sits down with Author and SANE Marie McKenzie and VSC SANE nurse Chris Bemis to chat about Marie’s book, her journey to advocating for herself and survivors of sexual assault, and what Marie wants readers to take away from her book.
Marie McKenzie, #1 Amazon Bestselling author, uses she/her pronouns and is an accomplished Registered Nurse, educator, community volunteer, victims’ advocate, and trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner. Born in Jamaica, Marie migrated to the United States of America in 1989, and currently resides in Orlando, FL with her husband, George.
Chris Bemis uses she/her pronouns and is one of VSC’s contract Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners. Graduating from Saint Francis School of Nursing and UCF , she has served as a Registered Nurse for over 30 years; in areas including Emergency Care, Home Health and Nursing Education. Her passion is to provide compassionate, trauma informed care.
You can find links to purchase Marie’s book on her website marielmckenzie.com
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/poV7km7aaB4
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On the newest episode of the VSC Podcast VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sits down with VSC Victim Advocate and founder of the Passion Flower Project Steven Wilson and VSC Advocate Intern Nicola Prichard to chat about the benefits of support groups and the importance of building a community to help survivors heal. Come learn about this support group that incorporates gardening and CBT skills to help survivors come together and heal!
The Passion Flower Project is a support group funded by Winnie Palmer of Orlando Health.
Steven Wilson uses he/him pronouns and is a Crisis Counselor and Victim Advocate at Victim Service Center of Central Florida. Diversity, inclusivity, social justice, compassion and respect are values he lives by and what you can expect when joining him for crisis counseling. He obtained a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Central Florida and continues to build upon his education and skills. He hopes that together they can rebuild and repair the traumas in their lives.
Nicola Prichard uses she/her pronouns and graduated from the University of Florida with her Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She is one of VSC’s advocacy interns and is currently a graduate student in the Master’s of Social Work Program at the University of Central Florida. In her first year at UCF, Nicola interned at Children’s Advocacy Center Osceola, working with families of children who had experienced abuse. After graduating, she plans on working to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and intends to continue working with individuals who have experienced trauma. In her free time, Nicola likes to read, cook, and play the piano.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/qrbWi7Z1kUQ
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Sexual Assault can affect anyone and everyone can be a part in preventing it. On the 95th episode of the VSC Podcast VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell chats with VSC Marketing and Outreach Specialist Kyle Fray and VSC Volunteer Jonathan Green about men in prevention, the societal pressures men can face, and ways we can all be better supporters and active bystanders.
Kyle Fray uses he/him pronouns and is the Marketing and Outreach Specialist at the VSC. Kyle received his Bachelor of Science from the University of Florida in Public Relations. Advocacy and having an ability to make an impact in the community he grew up in is something he holds close to him. He has experience working public relations both agency side and in-house. In his free time, he enjoys listening to music, playing video games and traveling around the country to play with his club Frisbee team.
Jonathan Green uses he/him pronouns and is a current Volunteer here at the VSC. Jonathan, or JJ (whichever you’d like to call him!) grew up in a suburb outside of Portland, Oregon and moved to Orlando in 2019! He absolutely adores playing music, reading, and lending a helping hand whenever he gets the chance too!
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/7pHgGp4mSFM
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
According to the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, 70% of adolescents receiving treatment for substance abuse that were surveyed had a history of trauma. Trauma can have many diverse reactions and effects, and this week on the VSC Podcast VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell chats with Founder of HUSH no More Dr. Vanessa Guyton and VSC LGBTQ+ Victim Advocate Kevin Fox to chat about addiction following assault, removing the shame around this topic, and ways we can be better supporters.
Dr. Vanessa Guyton uses she/her pronouns and is the CEO of Consulting Experts & Associates, LLC. Additionally, she is the Founder and Executive Director of HUSH No More, a non-profit organization and movement that provides a platform to allow Survivors to share their story and help victims to heal and unleash the shame of their trauma. This platform led to her creating and producing the HUSH No More Book, Trauma Releasing Coloring Book, and “When a Date Turns to Rape.” Her documentary has been shown internationally in Japan, Kuwait, Jordan, and Qatar to bring awareness to the HUSH Topics.
Kevin Fox uses he/him pronouns and is a Victim advocate in an adjunct position with the VSC and Zebra Coalition serving survivors in the LGBTQ+ Community. Kevin worked as a high school teacher while receiving his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College. His passion when working with clients is to help them increase their resilience and satisfaction with their everyday lives; he seeks to help clients increase their meaning from life and live more authentically and honestly.
You can listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/9SGKyCqEfis
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Ever feel pressure or that you just can’t say no during the Holidays? Tune into the newest episode of the VSC Podcast featuring VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell and VSC LGBTQ+ Victim Advocate Kevin Fox to learn how to set boundaries and advocate for you and your loved ones in practicing self-care.
Kevin Fox uses he/him pronouns and is a Victim advocate in an adjunct position with the VSC and Zebra Coalition serving survivors in the LGBTQ+ Community. Kevin worked as a high school teacher while receiving his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College. His passion when working with clients is to help them increase their resilience and satisfaction with their everyday lives; he seeks to help clients increase their meaning from life and live more authentically and honestly.
Emilie Mitchell uses she/her and is the Education Coordinator at the Victim Service Center where she leads interactive discussions on violence prevention topics and runs the weekly VSC Podcast. She earned her Bachelors of Science in Psychology at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign. She found her passion for advocating social justice and ending gendered-violence as a trained paraprofessional co-facilitating discussions with first year college students about sexual assault on campus and how to support survivors at U of I. She is also enthusiastic about education and most recently lived in Japan teaching English to Elementary and Middle School children.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/g4twDe9_uI0
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
1 in 6 men experience some form of sexual violence in their lifetime. On the newest episode of the VSC Podcast, Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell is joined by VSC Speaker’s Bureau Member Ralph Reinert and VSC Therapy Intern Miles Poola-or to chat about Male Survivors, the culture of silence, and how we can be better supporters.
Ralph Reinert uses he/him pronouns and is a Retired Executive for a fortune 500 company. Ralph is the Father of two and a Pop Pop of 5. He is also a Survivor of childhood abuse and an amazing Volunteer at Victim Service Center where he participates in outreach, education, and co-facilitates our men’s support group.
Miles Poola-or uses he/him pronouns and is one of our Therapy Interns at the VSC. Miles is originally from Thailand where he received a BA in English and worked as an English as a Second Language teacher before deciding to move to the U.S. to further his education. In 2019, he received a Master’s of Arts in Applied Linguistics from Columbia University in the City of New York where he developed his passion for the relationship between language and mind. Currently, he’s pursuing his Master’s of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Rollins College where he is also pursuing a Certification in Marriage and Family Therapy.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/uMBipVE9-U0
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On the 91st episode of the VSC Podcast, Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell is joined by VSC Speaker’s Bureau Member Tracy Kelly and VSC Advocate Intern Yael Rivera to chat about Communal Healing, Activism, and ways some survivors make meaning from trauma as part of their healing path.
Tracy Kelly uses she/her pronouns and is a survivor of child sexual abuse from the ages of 9-11 years old by a family member. Tracy withheld her story for most of her life because she was scared but after having her own children she now speaks to other parents about keeping their children safe and also to other victims about how to not only survive their abuse but learn how to thrive in life.
Yael Rivera she/her pronouns attends Florida State University’s Master’s of Social Work clinical program. She completed her generalist internship at UCF CAPS where she developed a love for group therapy. Her approach is humanistic, person-centered, mindfulness-based, DBT informed (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and interpersonal. She has a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ community, college students, and survivors of traumatic experiences.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/sCbpfdUS-Ns
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
If you think a line has been crossed, it has. On the 90th episode of the VSC Podcast, Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell is joined by VSC Victim Advocate Steven Wilson and VSC Advocate Intern Nicola Prichard to chat about Verbal Coercion, how rape culture normalizes this type of coercion, and ways we can combat this culture and heal.
Steven Wilson uses he/him pronouns and is a Crisis Counselor and Victim Advocate at Victim Service Center of Central Florida. Diversity, inclusivity, social justice, compassion and respect are values he lives by and what you can expect when joining him for crisis counseling. He obtained a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Central Florida and continues to build upon his education and skills. He hopes that together they can rebuild and repair the traumas in their lives.
Nicola Prichard uses she/her pronouns and graduated from the University of Florida with her Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She is one of VSC’s advocacy interns and is currently a graduate student in the Master’s of Social Work Program at the University of Central Florida. In her first year at UCF, Nicola interned at Children’s Advocacy Center Osceola, working with families of children who had experienced abuse. After graduating, she plans on working to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and intends to continue working with individuals who have experienced trauma. In her free time, Nicola likes to read, cook, and play the piano.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/4LcA0hBRQyo
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On the 89th episode of the VSC Podcast, Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell is joined by VSC Victim Advocate Danielle Simpson-Baker and VSC Advocate Intern Yael Rivera to chat about Sex Therapy, diverse and common effects that sexual trauma could have on intimacy, and ways survivors can heal and feel empowered.
Yael Rivera uses she/her pronouns and attends Florida State University’s Master’s of Social Work clinical program. She completed her generalist internship at UCF CAPS where she developed a love for group therapy. Her approach is humanistic, person-centered, mindfulness-based, DBT informed (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and interpersonal. She has a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ community, college students, and survivors of traumatic experiences.
Danielle uses she/her pronouns and is a Crisis Counselor and Victim Advocate at Victim Services Center. Danielle recently graduated with a master’s in Marriage and Couples’ Therapy from UCF and is currently a registered Marriage and Family Therapy Intern. She is also working toward a dual certificate in sex therapy and education. She provides free and inclusive sex education and advice on her Instagram page (@thesexpottherapist).
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/jw3ysTA0eV8
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On the 88th episode of the VSC Podcast, Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell is joined by FCASV’s Director of Programs Melissa Ashton and VSC’s Lead Victim Advocate Rhonda Wilson to chat about the many barriers survivors may face when it comes to reporting, the different options survivors have and the resources available to them whether or not they want to report, and why it is important for survivors to make choices that are right for them on their healing journey.
Melissa Ashton, LCSW (she/her) has been in the field of victim services since 2001. She began her career primarily supporting survivors of domestic and sexual violence through the criminal justice system. Melissa also served as a campus based advocate for nearly 10 years where she worked with survivors of all types of crimes. Through her work at FCASV, Melissa has worked with survivors on their civil legal needs under the LAV grant and has also provided technical assistance to Florida advocates, law enforcement and prosecutors. She is currently the Director of Programs and in this role provides training and technical assistance to Florida's 31 certified sexual assault programs around the state. Melissa also works on PREA issues and continues to train advocates. In her free time Melissa enjoys spending time with her family and training for her next race!
Rhonda Wilson (she/her) has been part of the VSC team for over 12 years. She has three graduate degrees, a Master of Human Services, a MBA and a Master in Administration of Justice and Security. Rhonda has over 30 years of experience in criminal/military justice. She served in the U.S. Navy for 20 years. After retiring from the Navy, Rhonda worked as the Director of a Residential Re-entry Center for inmates transitioning from federal prisons. Rhonda’s goal is to engage the entire community in activities that prevent sexual assault and crime.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/SQOkyztYWPY
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Did you know Orlando ranks 3rd in the nation for Human Trafficking calls? On the 87th episode of the VSC Podcast, Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell is joined by United Abolitionists’ founder/president Tomas J Lares and a Victim Advocate from the State Attorney’s Office Jenny Castaneda to chat about Child Sex Trafficking, myths, and ways we can help end Human Trafficking.
Tomas J Lares uses he/him pronouns and is the Founder/President of United Abolitionists, formerly Florida Abolitionist, Inc. an anti-human trafficking organization that networks, facilitates, and creates preventative and restorative solutions to ending modern-day slavery. Tomas is also the Co-founder/ former Chairman of the Greater Orlando Human Trafficking Task Force, Inc (now the Central FL Human Trafficking Task Force) and has 31 years of human services experience at the local, state and national level, managing and starting non-profit and public advocacy initiatives.
Jenny Castaneda uses she/her pronouns and has been a victim advocate with the Office of the State Attorney for 9 years. She is currently assigned to the Human Trafficking Unit at the Metropolitan Bureau of Investigation . She graduated from the University of Central Florida in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a certificate in Victim Advocacy. During her time as an advocate her focus has been on domestic violence and sex crimes cases. Jenny has also worked with an array of victims including victims of felony crimes and the families of victims of homicide.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/MOhli_Dtlx4
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On the 86th episode of the VSC Podcast, Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell is joined by FCASV’s Leo Vera, Esq. and VSC Victim Advocate Priscilla Aquino to chat about Undocumented Immigrants, myths surrounding this population, their rights after facing victimization, and ways we can learn more about and help support survivors that are undocumented immigrants.
Leo Vera, Esq. uses he/him pronouns and is the supervising attorney for the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence since 2019. For the last 10 years Leo has worked primarily with immigrants and victims of human trafficking, domestic violence, and sexual assault. Leo specializes in Immigration Law and Victim’s rights and currently works in Tampa, FL where the FCASV legal team is based.
Priscilla Aquino uses she/her pronouns and is a Bilingual Victim Advocate and Crisis Counselor at the VSC who is fluent in Spanish. She obtained her Master’s in Social Work from Kean University in NJ and has over 20 years of experience working with adolescence families, and victims of crime. Priscilla is very passionate about helping people heal from their trauma and rediscover their inner-strength as well as educating others. She hopes to be the voice for those who are unable to advocate for themselves.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/yc5ha15onQc
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
According to a recent survey done by Stop Street Harassment, 81% of women and 43% of men experience some form of sexual harassment in their lifetime. On the 85th episode of the VSC Podcast, Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell is joined by Valencia College’s VP for Equity and Access Ryan Kane and Corporate Trainer Danielle Jeter to chat about Workplace Sexual Harassment, barriers survivors face when reporting, risk factors, and ways we can create safe spaces free of harassment.
Ryan Kane uses he/him pronouns and is the Assistant Vice President for Equity & Access in the Office of Organizational Development & Human Resources at Valencia College. Since arriving at Valencia in 2015, Ryan has served as the Equal Opportunity Officer & Title IX Coordinator as well as AVP for Organizational Development & Inclusion. In his current role, Ryan leads, among other teams, the Equal Opportunity Office that addresses all complaints of harassment and discrimination for employees and students at the College. Ryan earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and a Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology.
Danielle Jeter uses she/her pronouns and is an experienced Sexual Harassment educator and Human Resources professional in the Central FL Community. She has a passion for hosting conversations surrounding harassment, sexual assault, boundaries, and more in an effort to prevent violence and promote safe professional spaces.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/kVlgOEItwMw
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.0
The 84th episode of the VSC Podcast is out! Join Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell who sits down with sex & relationships coach / podcaster Angelique Luna and VSC Advocate and Crisis Counselor Danielle Simpson-Baker to chat about rape culture and ways we can safely practice consensual and pleasurable sex with our partners.
Angelique Luna uses she/her pronouns and is a sex & relationships coach, educator, and podcaster. She helps people confidently communicate their sexual needs, wants, and desires. Her podcast Sex Positive Me discusses all aspects and effects of sexual relationships. Her mission is to educate, entertain, and empower people to have the best sex life!
Danielle Simpson-Baker uses she/her pronouns and is a Crisis Counselor and Victim Advocate at the Victim Service Center of Central Florida. Danielle recently graduated with a Master’s in Marriage and Couples’ Therapy from UCF and is currently a registered Marriage and Family Therapy Intern. She is also working towards a dual certificate in sex therapy and education. She provides free inclusive sex education and advice on her instagram page (@thesexpottherapist)
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/nFnJ2YI0QUU
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
The 83rd episode of the VSC Podcast is out! Join Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell who sits down with Orlando VA Healthcare System’s Keri Griffin and VSC LGBTQ+ Advocate Kevin to chat about the history of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, LGBTQ+ Veterans, and how the OVAHCS and the VSC can help support LGBTQ+ Veteran Survivors.
Keri Griffin uses she/her pronouns and is an LCSW and CAP who has been working at the Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS) for 16 years. Keri has worked in both the substance use disorder clinic and the mental health clinic, in the last 11 years she has also had the collateral duties of being the Orlando VA LGBTQ+ special emphasis program manager and veteran care coordinator. Just recently Keri was able to get approved a full-time LGBTQ+ veteran care program coordinator position at the Orlando VA for all 9 of their Central Florida healthcare sites. Keri is very passionate about ensuring that LGBTQ+ veterans get the best whole health care possible and are treated with dignity and respect.
Kevin Fox uses he/him pronouns and is a Victim advocate in an adjunct position with the VSC and Zebra Coalition serving survivors in the LGBTQ+ Community. Kevin worked as a high school teacher while receiving his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College. His passion when working with clients is to help them increase their resilience and satisfaction with their everyday lives; he seeks to help clients increase their meaning from life and live more authentically and honestly.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/1fGJxJmm3Qw
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
This week is Orlando Pride!! And on the 82nd episode of the VSC Podcast, Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sits down with Bliss Care’s Ace Davis and VSC LGBTQ+ Advocate Kevin to chat about Pronouns and Terms, the amazing services Bliss Cares provides, and ways we can all be better allies to the LGBTQ+ community.
Ace Davis uses he/him pronouns and is a 29-year-old transsexual man who grew up in Maryland. He is currently living in Orlando by way of Philadelphia. Ace is so proud to be able to work in the LGBTQ community and is grateful that he can share the knowledge he has gained throughout his transition
Kevin Fox uses he/him pronouns and is a Victim advocate in an adjunct position with the VSC and Zebra Coalition serving survivors in the LGBTQ+ Community. Kevin worked as a high school teacher while receiving his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College. His passion when working with clients is to help them increase their resilience and satisfaction with their everyday lives; he seeks to help clients increase their meaning from life and live more authentically and honestly.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/C_VZOL8YNYQ
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On the 81st episode of the VSC Podcast, Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sits down with Licensed Clinical Social Worker Margot Logan and Allie Sone to chat about the services Forever Families provides to mothers and the many options survivors have when it comes to pregnancy.
Margot Logan uses she/her pronouns and has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 35 years. She has extensive experience working with individuals and families, including those with chronic medical and/ or mental health issues, teen parents, and those involved in the child welfare system and also has over 20 years of experience in the adoption field, writing home studies, working with birth and adoptive parents, and conceptualizing and facilitating a monthly adoptive parent support group. In 2004, Mrs. Logan established Forever Families Adoption Services and A Better Life Counseling Services.
Allie Stone uses she/her pronouns, is originally from South Florida and is a recent graduate earning her Master's Degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy from the University of Central Florida in Orlando. Allie has a passion for mental health counseling and works with all age groups, children, adolescents, and adults. She specializes in relational issues, self esteem, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/RI0otKqmAAI
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Understanding the effects trauma can have on someone is important, knowing that healing and growth after trauma also happen is equally important! On the 80th episode of the VSC Podcast, Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sits down with Licensed Mental Health Counselor Helen Keeling-Neal and VSC lead therapist Brandi Godbee to chat about hope and growth after trauma, resiliency, and the ripple effects of healing.
Helen Keeling-Neal uses she/her pronouns and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice in Winter Park, Florida. Helen is known for her ability to create safety for individuals, families and couples so they can connect with and share the most vulnerable parts of themselves, while being supported in an environment of respect and loving kindness. Helen uses an internal/external systems approach to healing, believing change happens in relationship with self, and others, in a safe space.
Brandi Godbee uses she/her pronouns, is the lead therapist at the VSC, and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She is trained in EMDR and is a certified clinical trauma professional. Brandi has been advocating for sexual trauma survivors through VSC since 2012 and supports every person’s right to peace and freedom in their lives.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/bJZr7bTfEEI
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
September is Suicide Prevention Month and on this week’s episode of the VSC Podcast we talk about the population most at risk for dying by suicide: Men. Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sits down with Rollins College’s Multicultural and Athletics Counselor Jerry Jasmin and VSC LGBTQ Advocate Kevin Fox to chat about the barriers men face when accessing mental healthcare and ways we can help support men experiencing mental illness.
Jerry Jasmin uses he/him pronouns and is a Multicultural and Athletics Counselor at Rollins College in Winter Park, FL. Jerry earned is Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy at the University of Central Florida in 2019 and is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Inter. He has a passion for working with athletes and their families to address concerns including: Depression, anxiety, life transitions, retirement, identity exploration, and many other psycho-emotional concerns that are unique to the athlete population.
Kevin Fox uses he/him pronouns and is a Victim Advocate in an adjunct position with the VSC and Zebra Coalition serving survivors in the LGBTQ+ Community. Kevin worked as a high school teacher while receiving his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College. His passion when working with clients is to help them increase their resilience and satisfaction with their everyday lives; he seeks to help clients increase their meaning from life and live more authentically and honestly.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: @VSCFlorida
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Trauma can not only affect a survivor but can also greatly affect their supporters. On this week’s episode of the VSC Podcast Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sits down with Secondary Survivor David Sines and VSC Therapist Orialis Sosa to chat about tips on being a good supporter while also taking care of yourself, some of the pressures secondary survivors may face, and ways we can all heal.
David Sines uses he/him pronouns and was born and raised in Winter Garden, Florida. David is a Certified Public Accountant and a music lover. David has been married to his wife Rachel for almost 10 years and they share a beautiful 2 year old daughter named Katherine.
Orialis Sosa uses she/her pronouns and is a registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in the state of Florida. She earned her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Central Florida. Orialis’ background consists of providing counseling and victim advocacy support to survivors of crime and trauma. In her current role, she provides counseling support to high school students and is one of VSC’s contract therapists.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/8ciIWvV_Vio
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On this week’s episode of the VSC Podcast Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sits down with UCF Assistant Professor Dr. Fissel and VSC Lead Advocate Rhonda Wilson to chat about the alarming trend of survivors meeting their perpetrators via social media and dating apps. Come listen as we address victim blaming survivors of cyber crimes face when sharing their stories and ways we can keep feeling safe with technology.
Dr. Erica Fissel uses she/her pronouns and is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Criminal Justice and a member of the Violence Against Women Cluster at the University of Central Florida. She is an expert on interpersonal cyber victimization, with particular expertise in examining theoretical causes and correlates of victimization, post-victimization behaviors (e.g., reporting and help-seeking behaviors), and the consequences of victimization.
Rhonda Wilson uses she/her pronouns and has been part of the VSC team for ten years. She has three graduate degrees, a Master of Human Services, a MBA and a Master in Administration of Justice and Security. Rhonda has over 30 years of experience in criminal/military justice. She served in the U.S. Navy for 20 years. After retiring from the Navy, Rhonda worked as the Director of a Residential Re-entry Center for inmates transitioning from federal prisons. Rhonda’s goal is to engage the entire community in activities that prevent sexual assault and crime.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/gtjwPKwG2HU
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
How can Magick be an empowering tool for survivors of sexual violence? On this week’s episode of the VSC Podcast Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sits down with Witch Author Gabriela Herstik and Child Welfare/ Domestic Violence Advocate Fransheska Cardona to chat about why empowerment is important for survivors and how Magick can be used as a healing tool.
Gabriela Herstik uses she/her pronouns and is a witch, author, and fashion alchemist living in Los Angeles whose work dissects the intersection of witchcraft, glamour, and sexuality. She is the author of "Inner Witch". "Bewitching the Elements" and "Embody Your Magick" and is working on a book on Goddesses and one on Sacred Sex, both to be released in 2022
Fransheska Cardona uses she/her pronouns and is a Child Welfare/Domestic violence Advocate. She received her degree in clinical social work from Ana g mendez University. Fransheska has experience working with sexual violence survivors, high risk youth, and child welfare. She is passionate about giving others the tools to overcome any traumatic event. Fransheska is always looking for new ways to incorporate self-care and holistic approaches.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: lhttps://youtu.be/rq9TZJG930I
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
It’s back to school season and this week on the VSC Podcast we are sharing a panel we held for Sexual Assault Awareness Month back in April of 2021 which was all about Preventing Sexual Assault on Campus.
Join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell and VSC Education Intern Roxane Perret along with four amazing panelists: Rollin’s Title IX Coordinator Sarah Laake, UCF Victim Services Advocate Jessica Baker, UCF Assistant Professor Julia O’Connor, and VSC Victim Advocate Kevin Fox as they discuss addressing rape culture on campus, the red zone and other statistics, barriers members of the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities face, and ways we can help change the culture and promote safe spaces on campus.
Sarah uses she/her pronouns and is the Director of the Title IX office of Rollins College. Sarah has 15 years of experience working in the non-profit and higher education sectors as an advocate creating environments free from violence and discrimination.
Julia uses she/her pronouns and is an assistant professor at the University of Central Florida in the School of Social Work. She is also a member of the Violence Against Women faculty cluster, and has a secondary appointment in the Department of Population Health Sciences.
Jessica uses she/her pronouns and is a Victim Advocate at UCF Victim Services since 2018. Prior to her current role, Jessica was a Victim Advocate at the State Attorney’s Office in the 9th Judicial Circuit working in the Domestic Violence Unit’s Felony Division.
Kevin uses he/him pronouns and is a Victim advocate in an adjunct position with the VSC and Zebra Coalition serving survivors in the LGBTQ+ Community. Kevin worked as a high school teacher while receiving his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/o_NNBNfKI7o
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Did you know survivors of crimes can apply for compensation to help cover the expenses that resulted from the crime? On the 74th Episode of the VSC Podcast, VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with VSC Victim Compensation Specialist Nicole Valentin and VSC Victim Advocate Priscilla Aquino to talk about the process of applying for Victim Compensation and how the VSC can help.
Nicole Valentin uses she/her pronouns and is the Victim Compensation Coordinator / Specialist at the VSC. Nicole received her Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Berkeley College in NJ and after relocating to FL she continued her work with victims in her role at the State Attorney’s Office in Seminole County. Working with survivors daily to advocate for them to fulfill needs such as medical, housing, counseling, and compensation, Nicole realized this was a true passion of hers and in her new role at the VSC hopes to continue her advocacy by empowering survivors and increasing their understanding of their rights and resources available to them.
Priscilla Aquino uses she/her pronouns and is a Bilingual Victim Advocate and Crisis Counselor at the VSC who is fluent in Spanish. She obtained her Master’s in Social Work from Kean University in NJ and has over 20 years of experience working with adolescence families, and victims of crime. Priscilla is very passionate about helping people heal from their trauma and rediscover their inner-strength as well as educating others. She hopes to be the voice for those who are unable to advocate for themselves.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/Lme0iPvbAUM
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Come listen to Part 2 of Ghosting as we continue our conversation with two amazing Licensed Mental Health Counselors Jordan Steckler and Ella Shepherd who talk about closure and ways to support someone who has been ghosted or ghosted someone else.
Ella Shepherd, LMHC, NCC uses she/her pronouns and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and founder of Endeavors Counseling and community yoga and dance; a virtual space for movement. Ella loves working with youth and teens and uses movement and breath to assist herself and clients through big emotions and stress. Ella is also a 200 hour certified yoga teacher.
Jordan Steckler, LMHC, NCC uses she/her pronouns and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She earned her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Central Florida. Jordan currently works with adolescents and adults on a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, and grief. Jordan is also a 200 hour certified yoga teacher.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/e1DDi0IKm2E
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Have you experienced Ghosting before? In part 1 of a 2 part episode of the VSC Podcast we sit down with two amazing Licensed Mental Health Counselors Jordan Steckler and Ella Shepherd to talk about Ghosting, the effects it can have on the ghosted and ghosters, healthy problem solving and communication, and ways to heal.
Ella Shepherd, LMHC, NCC uses she/her pronouns and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and founder of Endeavors Counseling and community yoga and dance; a virtual space for movement. Ella loves working with youth and teens and uses movement and breath to assist herself and clients through big emotions and stress. Ella is also a 200 hour certified yoga teacher.
Jordan Steckler, LMHC, NCC uses she/her pronouns and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She earned her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Central Florida. Jordan currently works with adolescents and adults on a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, and grief. Jordan is also a 200 hour certified yoga teacher.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel:https://youtu.be/0QA2m1OFEc4
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On the 71st episode of the VSC podcast VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Peer Support Space Co-founder Yasmin Flasterstein and VSC Education Intern Roxane Perret to talk about the societal issue of erasing Bisexual Identity, the effects this can have on the community, misconceptions and myths, and ways we can support the Bi Community.
Yasmin Flasterstein uses she/her pronouns and is a young, hispanic, and bisexual leader in the mental health and LGBTQ+ community. Yasmin has been named one of 2019s Most Remarkable People by Watermark magazine and is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Peer Support Space.
Roxane Perret uses she/her pronouns and is the Education Intern at the VSC. She is also a proud bisexual woman that wants all bisexual people to not only feel valid but also visible in the LGBTQ+ community and the world. She feels that bisexual representation is a good way to fight against harmful stereotypes, but there is still a long way to go to fight bisexual erasure.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/W7__03-7P2c
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Can Sex Positivity help combat Rape Culture? On the 70th episode of the VSC podcast VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with UCF Visiting Professor Dr. Amber Norman and VSC Victim Advocate Danielle Simpson-Baker to talk about Sex Positivity, Enthusiastic Consent and ways to communicate triggers and boundaries with our partners.
With me I have returning Dr. Amber Norman. Dr. Norman uses she/her pronouns and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Visiting Professor at the University of Central Florida. Her clinical practice supports ethnic and sexual minorities, with a specialty in BDSM.
And I also have returning Danielle Simpson-Baker. Danielle uses she/her pronouns and is a Crisis Counselor and Victim Advocate at Victim Services Center. Danielle recently graduated with a master’s in Marriage and Couples’ Therapy from UCF and is currently a registered Marriage and Family Therapy Intern. She is also working toward a dual certificate in sex therapy and education. She provides free and inclusive sex education on her Instagram page (@thesexpottherapist).
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/hgYaz4z0mxM
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
What exactly constitutes a Cyber Crime? On the 69th episode of the VSC podcast VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with UCF Assistant Professor Dr. Erica Fissel and VSC’s Program Director JoEllen Revell to talk about the umbrella of Cyber Crimes, the often overlooked effects they can have on victims, and ways we can safety plan and help prevent Cyber Crimes.
Dr. Erica Fissel uses she/her pronouns and is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Criminal Justice and a member of the Violence Against Women Cluster at the University of Central Florida. She is an expert on interpersonal cyber victimization, with particular expertise in examining theoretical causes and correlates of victimization, post-victimization behaviors (e.g., reporting and help-seeking behaviors), and the consequences of victimization.
JoEllen Revell uses she/her pronouns and is the Victim Service Center Program Director who oversees the Advocacy, Therapy, and Forensic Nursing Department. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years’ experience in clinical and administrative oversight
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/dEJK7qZpx1o
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On the 68th episode of the VSC podcast VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with VSC Therapist Tamara Nelson, LMHC and Survivor Sheri Mruz to chat about the role Forgiveness could play in someone’s healing journey, the pressures society may put on survivors, and ways we can better support the survivors in our lives.
Sheri Mruz uses she/her pronouns and is a happily married mother of one fabulous son. She operates a busy & thriving, luxury travel company. Sheri enjoys travel, interior design, and advocating for those affected by crime. Justice & recovery are her wishes for all survivors.
Tamara Nelson uses she/her pronouns and received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Central Florida (UCF). She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with the state of Florida, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200) with the Yoga Alliance. Tamara is a full time staff therapist at UCF Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) and works part-time as a contract therapist with Victim Service Center of Central Florida (VSC).
You can also listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/Wunispw-6xU
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Pride Month is still happening and the VSC Podcast is still chatting about it! Join us on the 67th episode of the podcast featuring VSC Victim Advocate Lyanna and 2 amazing SANEs Nancy Moskyok and Kay Barrington as they talk about Trans Survivors of Sexual Assault, Forensic Exams, and ways we can all better support the Trans Community.
Lyanna Alvarez uses she/her pronouns and holds a Master’s Degree in Science of School Psychology from Carlos Albizu University. Lyanna has been in the field for five years working in Puerto Rico, Massachusetts, and now in Florida. Lyanna is transgender woman that has always visualized herself being part of bigger cosmos where she can be an instrument of good for others, as well a role model for other trans individuals.
Kay Barrington, RN uses she/her pronouns and is one of the certified SANE nurses who works at the VSC. She has been a Registered Nurse since 1975 and has a BS in psychology and a Masters in Healthcare Administration. Kay has worked in many areas of nursing as a clinical, psychiatric, legal nurse consultant, and a SANE at the VSC for over 3 yrs. She loves being a Forensic Nurse!
Nancy Moskyok, RN, SANE-A uses she/her pronouns and is the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Coordinator for the Victim Service Center of Orlando covering Orange and Osceola counties. She has over ten years of experience providing sexual assault exams to clients in Lake, Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties when activated by the Sexual Assault Response Team protocol. Nancy has a total of twenty seven years as a registered nurse.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/vlfHJdqmcaI
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Pride2021
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to heldp.
On Episode 66 of the VSC Podcast, VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with two amazing leaders: Central Florida Foundation’s VP of Community Strategies Sandi Vidal and VSC’s Executive Director Lui Damiani, to chat about the relationship between Foundations and Nonprofits, the current challenges they are facing, and the importance of Community Partnership.
Sandi Vidal uses she/her pronouns and serves as the Vice President of Community Strategies and Initiatives for the Central Florida Foundation. Sandi is the immediate past President of the League of Women Voters of Orange County. She has volunteered since she was 16 and has served on several boards currently serving on Mayor Dyer’s Multicultural Advisory Board and is a Fellow for GEEO at the University of Central Florida focused on sustainability. A graduate of the University of Miami school of Business, Sandi has a degree in Business Administration and she is a die-hard Cane in a house full of Noles. She has over 14 years of nonprofit leadership and over 20 years of Business Management experience
Lui Damiani uses he/him pronouns and is the Executive Director of the Victim Service Center of Central Florida. His professional career in business and public service spans more than 30 years having served the Central Florida community as a County Commissioner, corporate executive, small business owner, governmental manager, television host and homeowner’s association president. He has a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Central Florida and he did his undergraduate studies at the Ohio State University.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/uzHDvOUvnB0
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Continuing on with Pride Month, on this week’s VSC Podcast episode the VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Equality Florida’s Field Director Wesley Davis and VSC’s LGBTQ+ Victim Advocate Kevin Fox to chat about LGBTQ+ History, what current resources are available and needed within the community, and ways we can all advocate and change the culture that contributes to discrimination.
Wesley Davis uses he/him pronouns and is the current Field Director at Equality Florida where he is responsible for helping to lead Equality Florida’s Pride and outreach programs and supporting Equality Florida’s member mobilization. Wesley has extensive experience as a Grassroots Coordinator and a Regional Director to the Equality Florida field team.
Kevin Fox uses he/him pronouns and is a Victim advocate in an adjunct position with the VSC and Zebra Coalition serving survivors in the LGBTQ+ Community. Kevin worked as a high school teacher while receiving his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College. His passion when working with clients is to help them increase their resilience and satisfaction with their everyday lives; he seeks to help clients increase their meaning from life and live more authentically and honestly.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/CTfx0O58IOc
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
It’s officially Pride Month! And on this week’s VSC Podcast episode the VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Zebra Coalition’s Housing Program Manager Robin Daily and VSC’s Crisis Counselor and Victim Advocate Steven Wilson to chat about rigid gender expectations society puts on people, how this is harmful to all, and ways we can support everyone living as their authentic selves.
Robin Daily uses They / Them pronouns and is a Nonbinary / Trans Masculine person. They are the current Housing Program Manager at Zebra Coalition and has been with Zebra for a little over 4 years. Robin works with the 18-24 year old population in Zebra’s housing programs and is a Certified Youth Mental Health First Aid Instructor from the National Council for Behavioral Health.
Steven Wilson uses he/him pronouns and is one of our Crisis Counselors and Victim Advocates at the VSC. He earned his Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Social work from the University of Central Florida. Diversity, inclusivity, social justice, compassion and respect are all values that he lives by.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: @VSCFlorida
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month and to continue the conversation, this week on the VSC Podcast Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with two amazing licensed mental health counselors and Yoga teachers Ella Shepherd and Jordan Steckler to talk about the connection between movement and mental health.
Ella Shepherd uses she/her pronouns and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and founder of Endeavors Counseling and community yoga and dance; a virtual space for movement. Ella loves working with youth and teens and uses movement and breath to assist herself and clients through big emotions and stress.
Jordan Steckler uses she/her pronouns and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She earned her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Central Florida. Jordan currently works with adolescents and adults on a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, and grief. Jordan is also a 200 hour certified yoga teacher.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel @VSCFlorida
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Can Tarot be used for healing? We are so excited for you to check out this week’s Episode of the VSC Podcast featuring Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell who chats with Author Gabriela Herstik and VSC Victim Advocate Fransheska Cardona about Tarot, addressing its stigmas, and how symbolism can be used for healing.
Gabriela Herstik uses she/her pronouns and is a witch, author, and fashion alchemist living in Los Angeles whose work dissects the intersection of witchcraft, glamour, and sexuality. She is the author of "Inner Witch". "Bewitching the Elements" and "Embody Your Magick" and is working on a book on Goddesses and one on Sacred Sex, both to be released in 2022.
Fransheska Cardona uses she/her pronouns and is one of our Victim Advocates / Crisis Counselors at the VSC She received a masters degree in Clinical Social Work from Ana G. Mendez University. Fransheska has experience working with domestic violence survivors, high risk youth and the foster care system. She is passionate about giving the others the tools to overcome any traumatic event. Fransheska is always looking for new ways to incorporate self-care and holistic approaches.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/eRKVBIqBsyg
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Photo Credit: @alexyae
@gabyherstik
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
We hear a lot about Violence Prevention Education, but what really helps? Check out the 61st Episode of the VSC Podcast featuring Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell who chats with two incredible UCF assistant professors in the school of Social Work Dr. Julia O’Connor and Dr. Alison C. Cares about how sexual assault prevention education currently looks, what works and what doesn’t work in regards to teaching it, the possible future of prevention education, and little things we can all do every day to help end sexual assault.
Dr. Alison C. Cares uses she/her pronouns and is an associate professor of sociology and member of the violence against women faculty cluster at the University of Central Florida in Orlando. Her career in the movement to end violence against women started over 20 years ago by working in community outreach in a domestic violence and sexual assault services agency. Her research often looks at campus sexual assault, including evaluation the Bringing in the Bystander in person prevention program.
Dr. Julia O’Connor uses she/her pronouns and is an assistant professor at the University of Central Florida in the School of Social Work, a member of the Violence Against Women faculty cluster, and has a secondary appointment in the Department of Population Health Sciences. Julia’s practice experience includes many years as a domestic and sexual violence advocate. Her research interests include violence against women focused on primary prevention of violence, campuses, those who perpetrate violence, and marginalized populations.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/iOjC16kjh7M
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
@Cares9505 @juliamoconno @UCF_VAW @UCFSociology
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
You may have heard the term Rape Culture before but what exactly is it? On the 60th Episode of the VSC Podcast Join Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell who chats with UCF Victim Services Victim Advocate Jessica Baker and Rollins College Violence Prevention Educator Heather Surrency about examples of Rape Culture on College Campuses and ways we can combat it.
Heather Surrency uses she/her pronouns and has been working in the area of campus violence prevention for more than 15 years. After receiving her master’s degree in public health from the University of South Carolina, she began her work as a health educator at a large university in the southeast. It quickly became apparent to Heather and her colleagues that sexual violence was a prevalent problem on campus that needed to be addressed. Needing training, support and resources, Heather paired up with the women’s center on her campus and applied for and received a VAWA Campus Grant to implement a survivor advocacy and violence prevention Initiative. Through this work, Heather has conducted numerous trainings with students, staff, faculty and campus community partners in the area of violence prevention. Heather has recently joined the Title IX staff at Rollins College in the role of violence prevention educator and continues to work directly with students implementing violence prevention programming.
Jessica Baker uses she/her pronouns and is a Victim Advocate at UCF Victim Services since 2018. Prior to her current role, Jessica was a Victim Advocate at the State Attorney’s Office in the 9th Judicial Circuit working in the Domestic Violence Unit’s Felony Division. She believes survivors and values a survivor’s right to choose the path they walk after any trauma, abuse or victimization.
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Be sure to follow UCF @UCFAdvocates and Rollins @rollinsviolenceprevention
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
It’s Denim Day and to finish off Sexual Assault Awareness Month we are so excited to share our newest Podcast Episode featuring Olympic swimmer Margaret Hoelzer! Join Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell and VSC Program Director JoEllen Revell as we chat with Margaret about her experience with Childhood Sexual Abuse, the common effects childhood trauma and minimization can have on survivors, and ways we can all help support survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse.
Margaret Hoelzer uses she/her pronouns and is a Double Olympian and three-time Olympic Medalist in Swimming, as well as a former World Record holder. At the 2008 Beijing Olympics, she was awarded Silver medals in the 200m Backstroke and the 400m Medley Relay. Margaret is an accomplished public speaker and vocal advocate for victims of sexual abuse, having given speeches on Tedx and at various conferences and fundraisers around the country and is currently the National Spokesperson for the National Children’s Advocacy Center.In her speeches, Margaret shares her personal experience as a survivor of sexual abuse and focuses on lighting the path toward healing for other victims, their families and friends.
JoEllen Revell uses she/her pronouns and is the Victim Service Center Program Director who oversees the Advocacy, Therapy and Forensic Nursing Department. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years’ experience in clinical and administrative oversight.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/_p4Dxtc--x8
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
SAAM
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
It’s Victims’ Rights Week and on the new episode of the VSC Podcast Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Executive Director of the National Crime Victim Law Institute Meg Garvin and Executive Director from the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence Jennifer Dritt to talk about what rights victims have, some common misconceptions regarding these rights, and what we could be doing better as a society for survivors of trauma.
Meg Garvin uses she/her pronouns and is the Executive Director of the National Crime Victim Law Institute which is based at Lewis & Clark Law School in Portland, Oregon where she is also a law professor. Since 2003 Meg has been working in the field of victims’ rights drafting legislation, litigating the meaning of rights and educating attorneys, advocates, law enforcement, victims and more on the importance of these rights.
Jennifer Dritt uses she/her pronouns and is the Executive Director from the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence. She has been involved in the movement to end sexual violence for over thirty-five years, initially as an advocate and trauma therapist, and more recently as an administrator and policy maker.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/ale_CWdjvMA
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Be sure to follow @fcasv
SAAM #victimsrightsweek
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time to uplift survivor voices and raise awareness to this very prevalent and important issue. On this week’s episode VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with VSC Speakers Bureau Member Molly Kennedy and VSC LGBTQ+ Crisis Counselor and Victim Advocate Kevin Fox to chat about common reactions survivors have in regards to trust after assault, how supporters can be a trusting and safe person for the survivors in their lives, and possible ways survivors can move towards regaining trust.
Molly Kennedy uses she/her pronouns and is a current VSC volunteer involved in outreach, education, and other groups there. She graduated from University of Florida in Dec 2018 and will be attending medical school this upcoming August.
Kevin Fox uses he/him pronouns and is a Victim advocate in an adjunct position with the VSC and Zebra Coalition serving survivors in the LGBTQ+ Community. Kevin worked as a high school teacher while receiving his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College. His passion when working with clients is to help them increase their resilience and satisfaction with their everyday lives; he seeks to help clients increase their meaning from life and live more authentically and honestly.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/D6gu4_gapKA
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On the 56th episode of the VSC Podcast Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with VSC Speakers Bureau Member Rachel Sines and VSC Lead Advocate Rhonda Wilson to chat about Sexual Assault Anniversaries, common reactions survivors can have during these anniversaries, and ways survivors and their supporters can help prepare and heal during these moments in their healing journeys.
Rachel Sines uses she/her pronouns and is a survivor of a sexual assault and kidnapping following the break in of her home 14 years ago. Her attacker was given four life sentences and 67 years in prison for 13 counts with a firearm. She lives with her husband and daughter in Winter Garden, FL and takes every opportunity to advocate for victims and others seeking a path to healing in order to create something positive from such a dark event.
Rhonda Wilson she/her pronouns and has been part of the VSC team for ten years. She has three graduate degrees, a Master of Human Services, a MBA and a Master in Administration of Justice and Security. Rhonda has over 30 years of experience in criminal/military justice. She served in the U.S. Navy for 20 years. After retiring from the Navy, Rhonda worked as the Director of a Residential Re-entry Center for inmates transitioning from federal prisons. Rhonda’s goal is to engage the entire community in activities that prevent sexual assault and crime.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/LshM0Dwm9Sw
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
One of the free services VSC provides to survivors of trauma are therapy groups. On the 55th episode of the VSC Podcast Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with VSC Advocate Monique Bennett and VSC Therapy Intern Suzanne Higbie-Long to chat about the DBT Skills group they are leading and why these skills are particularly useful for survivors of trauma.
Monique Bennett uses she/her pronouns and hails from the University of Central Florida where she earned her Masters in Social Work and Certificate in Marriage & Family counseling, and a Bachelors in Psychology. She has several years of experience working with Women, Children & Families in addition to our homeless population. She is passionate about helping others overcome barriers and navigate through life’s obstacles using solution focus techniques and motivational interviewing. She is adamant about empowering others so that they are living life and not just surviving. She serves her clients with eyes of compassion, a heart filled with love, by providing education, motivation, and emotional support. Monique believes you can make a difference in this world by just helping one person at a time.
Suzanne Higbie-Long uses she/her pronouns and is a Counselor Intern at Victim Service Center. She earned her bachelors degree in Psychology from the University of Central Florida and will graduate from Rollins College with her Masters in Mental Health Counseling this May. Suzanne feels that, along with individual therapy, support groups and group therapy are important pieces in a survivor’s journey. Suzanne is a strong advocate for trauma survivors and believes we need a call to action against rape culture and sexual assault in our society.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/fLjX6EXge5Y
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Spreading Positivity can be great, but when can it become toxic? On the new episode of the VSC Podcast Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with UCFs Dr. Kim Spence and VSC Advocate Jocelyn Rayas to chat about toxic statements well-intentioned people may be saying to the survivors in their lives, the effects Toxic Positivity and suppressing emotions can have on individuals, and how we can reframe statements into validating and supportive ones.
Dr. Kimberly Spence uses she/her pronouns and has served as the Coordinator of Educational and Training Programs for the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) at the University of Central Florida (UCF) since 1999 and as the Clinical Director of Autism Support Services for Specialized Treatment & Assessment Resources (which is a private forensic practice), since 2017. She has lectured nationally and internationally regarding treatment, specialized therapeutic intervention, and the creation of specialized sexuality education programs for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) for over 20 years.
Jocelyn Rayas uses she/her pronouns and is a bilingual crisis counselor/victim advocate at the VSC. Jocelyn obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and her Masters in Human Services. She recently moved down to Florida a year ago and is a huge animal lover.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/t-I5PDFSk8w
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On the 53rd episode of the VSC Podcast Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with two incredible survivors, Karla Molina and Kelly, to chat about their healing journeys and the VSC. Come learn about barriers survivors could face when coming forward, the different ways people can heal, and how we can be better supporters for the people in our lives whom have been affected by trauma.
Karla Molina uses she/her pronouns and is a former client at the Victim Service Center. She successfully completed her treatment at the VSC after a 4+ year journey of healing. Karla looks to empower others to take charge of their future and empower them to grow into the best version of themselves by sharing her story and her successes with the VSC.
Kelly uses she/her pronouns and has survived date rape by the police officer brother of her best friend in her 20s, repeated sexual abuse by her alcoholic ex-husband in her 30s and 40s, and being abducted, drugged, and assaulted by two strangers a few months after her 50th birthday. Kelly has received individual and group therapy for four years through the Orange County Victim Service Center, where she met and developed an ongoing supportive friendship with our other guest, Karla.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/lTYNceIXxBs
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
March is Social Work Month! Come listen to the new episode of the VSC Podcast to learn about the profession! Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with two Social Work VSC Interns Danielle Uhran and Marlene Isma to talk about why they chose to pursue a degree in Social Work, stigmas and misconceptions about the field, and why Social Workers are essential to the community.
Danielle Uhran uses she/her pronouns and is one of our Social Work Pre-practicum interns at the VSC currently pursuing her master's in social work from the Florida State University with a certificate in Gerontology. Danielle is passionate about helping victims of sexual assault, violent crime, and traumatic circumstances move towards a path of healing.
Marlene Isma uses she/her pronouns and is an advocate intern at the VSC. She graduated with a Bachelor's in Social Work in 2019 and is now pursuing her Masters in Social Work. She has a passion for addressing homelessness, helping immigrants, and other community work. She loves fashion and creative directing and hopes to combine her passions with her creative side in the future.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/oYCR7V0sk2o
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Spring is just around the corner and the new episode of the VSC Podcast is all about Gardening and Healing! Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with VSC Intern Danielle Uhran and VSC Victim Advocate Steven Wilson to talk about a VSC Therapy Group for survivors: The Passion Flower Project. Come learn how Gardening can be therapeutic and how plants can be used as metaphors for survivors of trauma.
Danielle Uhran uses she/her pronouns and is one of our Social Work Pre-practicum interns at the VSC currently pursuing her master's in social work from the Florida State University with a certificate in Gerontology. Danielle is passionate about helping victims of sexual assault, violent crime, and traumatic circumstances move towards a path of healing.
Steven Wilson uses he/him pronouns, earned his Bachelors and Masters in Social work from the University of Central Florida, and is a Crisis Counselor and Victim Advocate at the VSC. Diversity, inclusivity, social justice, compassion and respect are values he lives by. His passions include nature, traditional gardening and aqua-scaping (aquarium gardening). The Passion Flower Project is literally a passion project. He believes that a connection with nature is a means of finding inner peace. His hope is to share his passion for nature and gardening so others can heal from their trauma and appreciate the beautiful world around us.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/jUJRcDQXLYE
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
February is National Eating Disorders Awareness Month and on the 50th episode of the VSC Podcast Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with two amazing people from The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness (@allianceforeda), Director of Education and Resources Liz Motta and Education and Resources Manager Dr. Allie Weiser, to talk about different types of Eating Disorders, harmful myths and misconceptions, the relationship between sexual violence and Eating Disorders, and how we can support a loved one.
Liz Motta uses she/her pronouns and is a licensed mental health counselor and the Director of Education and Resources at The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness.
Dr. Allie Weiser uses she/her pronouns, is a licensed clinical psychologist, and is the Education and Resources Manager at The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/MprEcJtJM9g
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Be sure to follow @alliancceforeda to learn about #notonemore weekend for help, support, and recovery: https://www.notonemore.co
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On the final episode of this mini-series, VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with The Deputy Chief Probation Officer of the Department of Juvenile Justice Omar M. Bohler and the Undersheriff of Orange County’s Sheriff Office Mark Canty to chat about Implicit Bias. Learn about the difference between implicit and explicit bias, how implicit bias can affect BIPOC individuals, and how we can hold space for these important conversations to ultimately break down barriers and structural racism.
Omar M. Bohler uses he/him pronouns and is the current Deputy Chief Probation Officer at the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice. Omar comes with over 20 years of Military service experience and has been with the DJJ for 15 years. Omar conducts various trainings focusing on implicit bias and fair and equitable treatment.
Undersheriff Mark J. Canty uses he/him pronouns and, after graduating from Northwestern University, started working in the Urban League in Orlando which made him realize that a career in law enforcement was his calling. He has worked with the Orlando Police Department over his 22-year career and was appointed Deputy Chief in 2017, and in 2019 he was appointed Undersheriff of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. Undersheriff Canty is driven by a desire to make a bigger impact in his community and beyond, by making connections with young people before they are in trouble.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/JjkLHbmFE9I
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
As we continue celebrating Black History Month, today the third episode of our 4-part mini-podcasting series came out!
On the third episode of this mini-series, VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with two amazing Mental Health Counselors: Tamara Nelson and Michelle Ilugbusi, to chat about Racial Trauma. Tune in as we discuss what Race is, the difference between Racial Trauma and Transgenerational Trauma, the effects Racial Trauma can have on those within the Black Community, and ways we can heal within the community and beyond.
Tamara Nelson uses she/her pronouns, received her Bachelors degree in Psychology and Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Central Florida where she is currently a staff Therapist with UCF’s Counseling and Psychological Services, and is one of our contract therapists at the VSC. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with the state of Florida, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200) with the Yoga Alliance. Tamara is passionate about the mental health profession and raising mental health awareness in marginalized communities.
Michelle Ilugbusi uses she/her pronouns and is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in the state of Florida. She earned her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College in Winter Park, FL and is currently a therapist in Central Florida working with clients covering concerns such as grief, anxiety, depression, trauma and more. Michelle holds a passion for working with people of color as they navigate their various intersecting identities, as well as engaging in advocacy and anti-racist work.
Check out Michelle’s article on allyship here: https://medium.com/@Michelleoye/it-sounds-like-you-want-to-be-an-ally-c3b3f63471d3
And her anti-racism resources here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/15K0U8QVF0xvsAQW-65kQnHNjfgnQVlsSn3nfJyYFSPM/edit
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/ml7u6rDke5M
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
For Black History Month, the VSC, as part of their table talk grant award from the Central Florida Foundation, is launching a mini-podcasting series this month: the Healing Begins Here Series!
This series will have 4 episodes focusing on issues affecting Black and African American Communities and ways we can advocate for Black survivors of Trauma and Sexual Violence.
On the second episode of this mini-series, VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with UCF Professor Dr. Reshawna Chapple and VSC Had Therapist Brandi Godbee to chat about Anti-Racism and Therapy. Tune in as we discuss what Anti-Racism really means and how mental health professionals can create safe anti-racist spaces for their Black Identified Clients.
Dr. Reshawna L. Chapple uses she/her pronouns and is an associate professor in the School of Social Work at the University of Central Florida. She is an anti-racist, social justice scholar whose areas of clinical practice and research include intersectional identity, mental health disparities and access to culturally responsive services for Black women, Deaf women, and other marginalized communities. She received her BSW, MSW and PhD in Justice Studies from Arizona State University.
Brandi Godbee uses she/her pronouns and is the lead therapist at the VSC and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She is trained in EMDR and is a certified clinical trauma professional. Brandi has been advocating for sexual trauma survivors through VSC since 2012 and supports every person’s right to peace and freedom in their lives.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/h34JUdH-N04
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
For Black History Month, the VSC, as part of their table talk grant award from the Central Florida Foundation, is launching a mini-podcasting series this month: the Healing Begins Here Series!
This series will have 4 episodes focusing on issues affecting Black and African American Communities and ways we can advocate for Black survivors of Trauma and Sexual Violence.
On the first episode of this mini-series, VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Family Nurse Practitioner Dr. Latoya Wells and VSC Victim Advocate Monique Bennett to chat about Mental Health within Black Communities. Come learn about stigmas surrounding mental health within these communities, barriers that BIPOC individuals have when accessing resources, how external societal factors can affect mental health, what advocating for the self looks like, and what mental health providers and health practitioners can do to help support BIPOC and Black Survivors.
Dr. Latoya Wells uses she/her pronouns, is a Family Nurse Practitioner, and has a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree from Loyola University of New Orleans. She has over twenty-four years of nursing and healthcare experience which also includes nursing and healthcare education at both the undergraduate and graduate level. She holds a full-time leadership and management position with one of the largest insurance carriers in the nation. Dr. Wells is the owner of Wells Legacy Health & Wellness LLC. She is passionate about educating her community.
Monique Bennett uses she/her pronouns and hails from the University of Central Florida where she earned her Masters in Social Work and Certificate in Marriage & Family counseling, and a Bachelors in Psychology. She has several years of experience working with Women, Children & Families in addition to our homeless population. She is passionate about helping others overcome barriers and navigate through life’s obstacles using solution focus techniques and motivational interviewing. She is adamant about empowering others so that they are living life and not just surviving. She serves her clients with eyes of compassion, a heart filled with love, by providing education, motivation, and emotional support. Monique believes you can make a difference in this world by just helping one person at a time
You can also listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/yAhliAPJbFY
Here are links to the resources Monique mentions on this episode:
https://nami.org
https://www.nimhd.nih.gov/programs/edu-training/byomm/toolkit.html
https://www.beam.community
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On episode 45 of the VSC Podcast Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Children’s Advocacy Center’s Ann Pimentel-Kerr and VSC’s Speaker’s Bureau Member Tracy Kelly to chat about Childhood Sexual Abuse. Come learn about the definition of sexual abuse and grooming, the effects it can have on a survivor, signs that a child could be experiencing sexual abuse, things that can help survivors heal, and ways we can support survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse
Ann Pimentel-Kerr uses she/her pronouns and is the Children’s Advocacy Center Specialist at the Children Advocacy Center in Central Florida. Ann has over 25 years of experience working with children & families, and in the social services/child welfare arena. Her experience includes working with children and adults in psychiatric facilities, DCF child abuse investigations, supervision, and many years as a child welfare trainer.
Tracy Kelly uses she/her pronouns and is a survivor of child sexual abuse from the ages of 9-11 years old by a family member. Tracy withheld her story for most of her life because she was scared but after having her own children she now speaks to other parents about keeping their children safe and also to other victims about how to not only survive their abuse but learn how to thrive in life.
You can also listen to this on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XeJIzeUUrkU
Be sure to follow Tracy, Mental Momma, at @Mentalmomma79
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On episode 44 of the VSC Podcast Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with VIBS Family Violence and Rape Crisis Center’s Community Education Manager Taryn Kutujian and current VSC Social Justice Intern Megan Asmussen to chat about abuse in the media. Come listen as we analyze different popular shows and movies, such as Game of Thrones, American History X, Sweeney Todd, Shameless, and more to see how the use of sexual violence in the media can perpetuate rape culture or alternatively raise awareness of sexual assault.
Taryn Kutujian uses she/her pronouns and is the Community Education Manager at VIBS Family Violence and Rape Crisis Center in Suffolk County on Long Island. Taryn is a licensed social worker and specializes in program development, virtual learning and volunteer coordination.
Megan Asmussen uses she/her pronouns and is one of our Social Justice Pre-Practicum Interns at the Victim Service Center of Central Florida. Megan is working on her Masters in Mental Health Counseling and the College and University Counseling Certificate from Rollins College.
You can also listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/W7isiOVk4II
If you or a loved one are ever feeling overwhelmed or need someone to talk to, here is a list of community resources ready to help:
Victim Service Center: 407-500-HEAL (4325)
VIBS: 631-360-3606, Chat: www.vibs.org
RAINN Self-Care After Trauma: https://www.rainn.org/articles/self-care-after-trauma
Polaris Project: Call 1-888-373-7888 | Text 233733 (Befree)
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-HOPE (4673), online at hotline.rain.org
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255, texting HOME to 741741, Online chat at suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/
NAMI Lifeline: 800-950-NAMI (6264), This is only available 10am-6pm EST
Trevor Lifeline: 866-488-7386, Text START to 67867
Transgender Crisis Hotline: 877-656-8860
Free Bilingual Support via FloridaBlue: 833-848-1762
Veterans Helpline: 800-838-2838
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
This week on the VSC Podcast Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Help Now’s Trauma Informed Care Program Coordinator Jaqueline Padilla and VSC Victim Advocate Rosa Abraham to chat about caregiver identity and burnout, the different signs that someone may be experiencing burnout, vicarious trauma, and ways we can be proactive in addressing burnout.
Jacqueline Padilla uses she/her pronouns and is the Trauma-Informed Pilot Project Coordinator at Help Now Of Osceola where she has worked for the past 5 years. Jackie is passionate about developing community partnerships with law enforcement, victim service providers, and the judicial system to create immediate response for victims/survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and gender discrimination.
Rosa Abraham uses she/her pronouns and is a bilingual Crisis Counselor and Victim Advocate at VSC while she pursues her PhD in Forensic Psychology. She is also a member of the Florida Crisis Response Team and other community task forces in central Florida in an effort to advocate for individuals healing from trauma.
You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/UmF29qOKLcw
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
January 11th, 2021 was Human Trafficking Awareness Day and in an effort to uplift education and discussion around this important topic, the VSC hosted a live panel discussion with 4 amazing experts and professionals in the field. Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with USF’s Dr. Sandra Stone, VSC speaker’s bureau member Savannah Parvu, United Abolitionists’ Tomas J. Lares, and VSC’s Johnnie Kramer to chat about different types of Human Trafficking, why it is so prevalent in Orlando, signs to look out for, and ways we can help victims and survivors.
Dr. Sandra Stone uses she/her pronouns and is a professor in the Criminology Department and an Assistant Dean of Graduate Studies at the University of South Florida's Sarasota-Manatee Campus. Her research interests include juvenile delinquency/juvenile justice, family violence, women and crime, public policy, and program evaluation.
Savannah Parvu uses she/her pronouns and has a passion for writing and speaking about the Hope she has found after many years of abuse. She is involved in Survivor Leadership through active prevention and awareness activities.
Tomas J. Lares uses he/him pronouns and is the Founder/President of United Abolitionists, Inc. formerly Florida Abolitionist, Inc. In 2004, Lares became aware of the crime of human trafficking and began his advocacy. Lares was instrumental in creating a 24-hour Human Trafficking Hotline and for advocating Orange County Government to fund an adult female short-term 24-hour facility.
Johnnie Kramer is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the State of Florida. He received his Masters of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Central Florida, specializing in the treatment of trauma for both individuals and families.
You can view a recording of the live panel on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/jaQTRlog3Ls
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. You can also contact the United Abolitionists Hotline at 1(833) 9-STOP-HT (or 1 833 978 6748) or the National Human Trafficking Helpline at 1 888 373 7888 to get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
It’s a new year and with it we all may have new goals and aspirations. Come listen to the new episode of the VSC Podcast to hear why practicing Mindfulness might be a great resolution to add to your list! Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with two amazing Mental Health Professionals: Jordan Steckler and Orialis Sosa to talk about Mindfulness techniques for beginners and more experienced people, the connection between mindfulness and yoga, and the benefits of practicing Mindfulness for survivors of trauma and everyone.
Jordan Steckler uses she/her pronouns and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She earned her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Central Florida. Jordan currently works with adolescents and adults on a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, and grief. Jordan is also a 200 hour certified yoga teacher.
Orialis Sosa uses she/her pronouns and is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in the state of Florida. She earned her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Central Florida. Orialis’ background consists of providing counseling and victim advocacy support to survivors of crime and trauma. In her current role, she provides counseling support to high school students.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Episode 40 of the VSC Podcast is out and it’s all about Toxic Masculinity. Come listen to Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell chat with The Center’s Director Joél Junior Morales and VSC LGBTQ+ Advocate Kevin Fox about gender norms and Toxic Masculinity, how to can look across different cultures and groups as well as perpetuate violence, and how to embrace masculinity in a non-toxic way.
Joél Morales uses he/him pronouns and is the Operations Director for the LGBT+ Center Orlando. Joél is a Certified Trauma Professional who studied medical coding terminology and Case Management. Morales experienced ranges from public health, nonprofit management, project improvement, substance abuse, and relapse prevention. A long-standing community builder through volunteerism, Joel is one of the co-founders for QLatinx, a grassroots racial, social, and gender justice organization dedicated to the advancement and empowerment of Central Florida's LGBTQ+ Latinx community. He continues spearheading efforts to affirm and empower the LGBT+ community and its allies through information, education, advocacy, and support.
Kevin Fox uses he/him pronouns and is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern with the state of Florida. Kevin worked as a high school teacher while receiving his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College. He has worked with adolescents with substance use issues, Equality Florida for LGBTQ+ rights, and in the UF Health Cancer Center at Orlando Health counseling and performing therapy with cancer patients and their families. His passion when working with clients is to help them increase their resilience and satisfaction with their everyday lives; he seeks to help clients increase their meaning from life and live more authentically and honestly.
You can also listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ElnyWaPvDos
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On Episode 39 of the VSC Podcast VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with two amazing men from the Trans community, Aaron Mungin and Zander Keig, to talk about the erasure of the Transmasculine identity. Come learn about what that erasure looks like, why it is happening, different aspects of transitioning, and resources for Transmasculine survivors of sexual violence.
Zander Keig uses he/him pronouns and is an award-winning Licensed Clinical Social Worker and public speaker, sought-after workshop facilitator (including WPATH Advanced Behavioral Health Courses), and a long-time trans community organizer.
Aaron Mungin uses he/him pronouns and is a 52 year old African American who began his transition journey 11 years ago. He is an educator, community advocate, and peer mentor. Currently he helps facilitate The Center’s FTM Orlando Group and Spektrum Health’s peer support group. On TDOR (Transgender day of Remembrance) he was honored with an Unsung Heroes Award from Hope and Help.
You can also listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/fkE6ZlyJsIU
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
The Holidays can be a stressful time, especially for survivors of Sexual Violence. That is why this week we are talking about Surviving the Holidays. Join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell as she sits down with VSC Therapy Intern Suzanne Higbie-Long and VSC Victim Advocate Kevin Fox to talk about their workshop on how to survive the holidays, ways to set boundaries with family and loved ones, and how to advocate for ourselves during this season.
Suzanne Higbie-Long uses she/her pronouns and is a Counselor Intern at Victim Service Center. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Central Florida and will graduate from Rollins College with her Masters in Mental Health Counseling this May. Suzanne feels that, along with individual therapy, support groups and group therapy are important pieces in a survivor’s journey. Suzanne is a strong advocate for trauma survivors and believes we need a call to action against rape culture and sexual assault in our society.
Kevin Fox uses he/him pronouns and is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern with the state of Florida. Kevin worked as a high school teacher while receiving his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College. He has worked with adolescents with substance use issues, Equality Florida for LGBTQ+ rights, and in the UF Health Cancer Center at Orlando Health counseling and performing therapy with cancer patients and their families. His passion when working with clients is to help them increase their resilience and satisfaction with their everyday lives; he seeks to help clients increase their meaning from life and live more authentically and honestly.
You can listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yL5QxdJ6j34
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
A new episode of the VSC Podcast is out and it’s all about Sexual Assault in the Justice System. VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with the head of the Sex Crimes Unit at the State Attorney’s Office Jenny Rossman and VSC’s Program Director JoEllen Revell to talk about what sexual assault victims and survivors can expect when pursuing sex crime charges and how a Victim Advocate can help survivors through the process.
Jenny Rossman uses she/her pronouns and has been the head of the Sex Crimes Unit at the State Attorney’s Office (Orange and Osceola) since 2017. She was also a sex crimes prosecutor in Miami-Dade county. Jenny and her unit work closely with law enforcement and various community partners to achieve justice for victims and keep the community safe.
JoEllen Revell uses she/her pronouns and is the Victim Service Center Program Director who oversees the Advocacy, Therapy and Forensic Nursing Department. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in clinical and administrative oversight.
You can listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GD-nKx1Phnw
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On the 36th episode of the VSC Podcast, VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with a UCF professor Dr. Amber Norman and a UCF Master’s student Danielle Simpson-Baker to talk about the BDSM community and Consent. Come learn how partners ensure each other’s safety before, during, and after sexual intimacy.
Dr. Amber Norman uses she/her pronouns and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Visiting Professor at the University of Central Florida. Her clinical practice supports ethnic and sexual minorities, with a specialty in BDSM.
Danielle Simpson-Baker uses she/her pronouns and is a master’s student at UCF pursuing an MA in Marriage and Couple’s Therapy, as well as a certification in sex therapy. She’s also a sex coach, educator and consultant, and you can find some of her work on Instagram @thesexpottherapist.
You can listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cGnsQF8YI_o
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On the 35th episode of the VSC Podcast, VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with two amazing researchers from UCF: Dr. Jack Ballantyne and Dr. Erin Hanson to talk about the science of forensics and Sexual Assault. Come learn about the process and strategies used to test DNA evidence, what it’s like to be a forensic scientist, and what Dr. Ballantyne’s and Dr. Hanson’s research developments could mean for the future of DNA evidence and Sexual Assault.
Dr. Erin Hanson uses she/her pronouns and is a UCF Research Associate Professor in the Biological Evidence Section of the National Center for Forensic Science at the University of Central Florida (UCF). She has volunteered with VSC since 2018.
Dr. Jack Ballantyne uses he/him pronouns and is a Professor of Chemistry at the University of Central Florida (UCF) and an Associate Director of the National Center for Forensic Science in Orlando, Florida. Prior to entering academia, he was a casework forensic scientist in Scotland, Hong Kong and New York. His current research projects include the use of Y chromosome markers for sexual assault investigations, RNA profiling for body fluid and tissue identification, trace DNA analysis including single-cell genomics, and mixture deconvolution.
You can also listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/t0lrjl8bY5w
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Transgender Day of Remembrance is this Friday, November 20th and is a time to honor and memorialize those who have been murdered due to transphobia. On the 34th episode of the VSC Podcast, VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with two amazing Trans women: Equality Florida’s TransAction Project Coordinator Nikole Parker and Peer Support Space Butterfly Talks member Morrighan-Eris Crosmu to talk about violence the Trans Community faces. Come learn about the marginalization of the Trans Community, how we can honor Transgender Day of Remembrance, and how to be a better supporter of the Trans Community.
Nikole Parker uses she/her pronouns and is the TransAction Florida Project Coordinator, assisting with Equality Florida's statewide Transgender Inclusion Initiative. She also currently works for the onePULSE Foundation as the Stakeholder & Community Relations Manager. Nikole has sat on various non-profit boards within the community, including the LGBT+ Center Board of Directors, the Orlando United Assistance Center Advisory Board, TransAction Advisory Council, Spektrum Health Board of Directors and Peer Support Space Board of Directors.
Morrighan-Eris Crosmu uses she/her pronouns and is a transgender woman who has been a regular to Butterfly Talks for quite some time now. Butterfly Talks is a place to build friendships and a sense of community for historically underserved communities within the LGBTQ+ community.
You can also listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UWHwlCm1Aa4
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
This week is Forensics Nurses Week and in an effort to celebrate and spread awareness of their impact on survivors and victims of sexual assault, the 33rd episode of the VSC Podcast hosts two of VSC’s amazing Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (or SANEs): SANE Coordinator Nancy Moskyok and SANE Nurse Kay Barrington to share their expertise in the field. Come learn about what it’s like to be a SANE, the process of getting a rape kit done, how someone can become a SANE, the challenges in the industry, and the positive impacts SANEs have on helping end sexual violence.
Nancy Moskyok, RN, SANE-A uses she/her pronouns and is the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Coordinator for the Victim Service Center of Orlando covering Orange and Osceola counties. She has over ten years of experience providing sexual assault exams to clients in Lake, Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties when activated by the Sexual Assault Response Team protocol. Nancy has a total of twenty seven years as a registered nurse.
Kay Barrington, RN uses she/her pronouns and is one of the certified SANE nurses who works at the VSC. She has been a Registered Nurse since 1975., and has a BS in psychology and a Masters in Healthcare Administration. Kay has worked in many areas of nursing as a clinical, psychiatric, legal nurse consultant, and a SANE at the VSC for 3 yrs. She loves being a Forensic Nurse!
You can listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ICFdjLOQT8Q
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
The VSC hosts support groups for survivors of sexual violence as one of its many free services. On the 32nd episode of the VSC Podcast VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with National Human Trafficking Speaker and VSC Speaker’s Bureau Member Savannah Parvu and VSC Crisis Counselor and Victim Advocate Tiffany Gutierrez to chat about Support Groups. Come learn about what a support group is, what a virtual survivor meetup could look like, and the benefits of being in a support group as a survivor of sexual violence.
Savannah Parvu uses she/her pronouns and routinely shares her experiences with the public to grow knowledge of the tragic issue of familial trafficking within the commercial sex trafficking arena. She is a nationally recognized speaker on the subject and has become one of the foremost voices on human trafficking at the State Capitol.
Tiffany Gutierrez uses she/her pronouns and earned her Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health counseling from Argosy University in Dallas, Texas and is a registered intern in the state of Florida. Her passion for working with individuals affected by trauma began when she interned at the Collin County Rape Crisis Center, as both an advocate and counselor. Since moving to Florida Tiffany has continued to work with individuals in private practice, as well as working with children in the Seminole County Public Schools system. Tiffany aspires to obtain full licensure as a Mental Health Counselor from the state of Florida in order to continue her work with survivors of traumatic events and better serve the community.
You can also listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Nu7CsLX5Vgs
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
It’s Ace Week which is a time dedicated to spreading awareness and educating on Asexuality! On the 31st episode of the VSC Podcast VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with UCF’s Lavender Council Member Ava Devine, a UCF employee completing their gender studies certificate Jax Rogero, and VSC’s therapy intern Alexa Andino to talk about Asexuality. Come learn about Asexuality and the many sexualities under the Ace umbrella, common misconceptions surrounding the Ace community, and how we can better support people who identify as Ace.
Jax Rogero uses they/them pronouns, works as an administrative assistant at UCF, and is completing a gender studies certificate. They have one son and frequently uses him as an excuse for a serious cartoon watching habit.
Ava Devine uses they/she pronouns and is a second-year creative writing and French student at UCF. They're a passionate reader, a proud member of Lavender Council, and a full-time cat mom. In her free time, Ava loves to watch movies and care for her Animal Crossing village.
Alexa Andino uses she/her pronouns and is our therapy intern here at VSC. Alexa identifies as Asexual and is a master student pursuing her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Alexa hopes to graduate in December of 2020 and work as Registered Mental Health Counselor intern and advocate for sexual abuse survivors and the LGBTQIA+ community.
You can also listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MnYFIXPpB9o
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
As we continue through Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we thought it was important to talk about something often ignored: Teen Dating Violence. On the 30th episode of the VSC Podcast VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with SafeHouse’s Prevention Educator Michelle Jewett and Zebra Coalition’s Executive Director Heather Wilkie to chat about Intimate Partner Violence in Teen Dating Relationships. Come listen as we discuss the difference between Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and Domestic Violence, why it is important to talk about IPV with teens specifically, specific barriers teens, and specifically teens in the LGBTQ+ community, face as IPV survivors, and how we can support and advocate for young people experiencing IPV.
Michelle Jewett uses she/her pronouns and has been a Prevention Educator at SafeHouse, the Domestic Violence Shelter of Seminole County, since 2011. She was awarded Victim Advocate of the Year in 2013 from the Office of the State Attorney 18th Judicial Court as well as the Voice of Hope Award in 2016 from the Seminole County Domestic Violence Task Force. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from UCF. Michelle has 5 children of her own, ranging from 16 years-old to twenty-eight. She has found her happily ever after with her husband of almost 30 years and hopes for a time when everyone can have this same dream become a reality.
Heather Wilkie uses she/her pronouns and has served as the Executive Director for Zebra Coalition, an organization whose mission is to support and inspire LGBTQ+ youth. Zebra Coalition operates a youth drop in center in Orlando, Florida that serves as a safe space and programming for hundreds of youth ages 13-24. Zebra Coalition also provides housing for youth experiencing homelessness. Prior to her work at Zebra Coalition, Mrs. Wilkie served as Chief Operating Officer for Harbor House of Central Florida, where she was responsible for the development and monitoring of programs for one of the largest and most comprehensive domestic abuse organizations in the United States. Mrs. Wilkie holds a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College. Mrs. Wilkie has received numerous awards for her work including Harbor House of Central Florida’s Champion of Equality and one of Orlando Magazine’s 2018 “Women of the Year.”
You can listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ceBXGY8YSpA
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On this week’s new episode of the VSC Podcast VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Dr. Kimberly Spence from the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at UCF and VSC Programs Director JoEllen Revell to chat about Autism and Community Safety: Stalking V. Inappropriate Social Skills. Come listen as we discuss the nuances of boundaries and relationships with regards to those with ASD, what makes those with ASD more likely to engage in stalking, and how VSC can help those who are in unhealthy relationships or suffering from stalking.
Dr. Kim Spence uses she/her pronouns and has served as the Coordinator of Educational and Training Programs for the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD)at the University of Central Florida (UCF) since 1999 and as the Clinical Director of Autism Support Services for Specialized Treatment & Assessment Resources (which is a private forensic practice), since 2017. She has lectured nationally and internationally regarding treatment, specialized therapeutic intervention, and the creation of specialized sexuality education programs for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) for over 20 years.
JoEllen Revell uses she/her pronouns and is the Victim Service Center Program Director who oversees the Advocacy, Therapy and Forensic Nursing Department. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years’ experience in clinical and administrative oversight.
You can also listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1J9vFtuFgIg
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and on this week’s new episode of the VSC Podcast VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with the Director of Outreach Services at Help Now, the Domestic Violence Shelter in Osceola County, Evelyn C. Herrera-Jackson and VSC Crisis Counselor and Victim Advocate Rosa Abraham to chat about Dual Victimization. Come learn about the commonalities of sexual violence and intimate partner violence, how intersectionality can affect a survivor’s ability to seek out services, and how we can better advocate for those that experience both sexual and domestic violence.
Evelyn C. Herrera-Jackson uses she/her pronouns and has been employed with Help Now of Osceola, Inc. since 1998. She earned her undergraduate degree at Hofstra University and obtained a Masters of Science in Education with an emphasis in Counseling Multi-Cultural Groups from State University of NY, College at Brockport. As the Outreach Services Director for Help Now of Osceola, Inc., she has facilitated numerous workshops on domestic violence, teen dating violence, sexual violence, drug addictions, and cultural diversity.
Rosa Abraham uses she/her pronouns and s a bilingual Crisis Counselor and Victim Advocate at VSC and is currently pursuing a PhD in Forensic Psychology. She is also a member of the Florida Crisis Response Team and other community task forces in central Florida in an effort to advocate for individuals healing from trauma.
You can also listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/rKw0IKmaNqY
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On this week’s new episode of the VSC Podcast, VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Planned Parenthood’s Outreach Educator Paola Ferst and Professor of Psychology at Valencia College Jorge Valladares to chat about Positive Porn. Come learn how we can talk to children about porn, how certain pornography can perpetuate rape culture, and what positive porn is and looks like.
Paola Ferst uses she/her pronouns and is an Outreach Educator and Community Liaison at Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida. Paola provides medically accurate, age-appropriate and inclusive sex education with compassion and non-judgement to youth, adults, parents and social service providers.
Jorge Valladares uses he/him pronouns and is a professor of psychology at Valencia College where he teaches general psychology, developmental psychology, and human sexuality. He has masters’ degrees in general psychology and clinical mental health counseling. Jorge was also a Rollins College Social Justice pre-practicum intern with the VSC in 2019.
You can listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/t9tlt1SjKhM
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On this week’s new episode of the VSC Podcast, VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with UCF’s Victim Services Victim Advocate Jessica Baker and VSC Speaker’s Bureau member Sheronne Thorpe-Gilchrist to talk about College Sexual Assault. Come listen to Sheronne’s powerful story, learn about terms like “red zone” and how we can help prevent sexual violence on campus.
Jessica Baker uses she/her pronouns and is a Victim Advocate at UCF Victim Services since 2018. Prior to her current role, Jessica was a Victim Advocate at the State Attorney’s Office in the 9th Judicial Circuit working in the Domestic Violence Unit’s Felony Division. She believes survivors and values a survivor’s right to choose the path they walk after any trauma, abuse or victimization.
Sheronne Thorpe-Gilchrist uses she/her pronouns and is currently working as an insurance professional. She is also a survivor of a Sexual Assault which occurred almost 25 years ago during her freshman year of college.
You can listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0aW7d_T3ktM
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be thoroughly discussing a survivor’s story of sexual assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On this week’s new episode of the VSC Podcast, VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with author, survivor, and VSC Speaker’s Bureau member Diana Oakley as well as VSC Advocate and Crisis Counselor Johnnie Kramer to talk about the role faith can have in a survivor’s healing journey. Come learn about Diana’s story, how healing after trauma is different for everyone, and how religious leaders can make safe spaces for survivors of sexual violence.
Diana Oakley uses she/her pronouns and is a professional speaker, mentor, and author. She is a member of RAINN’s Speakers Bureau (Rape Abuse Incest National Network), as well as the Victim Service Center of Central Florida’s Speakers Bureau. Diana is currently attending Valencia College to pursue a degree in nursing, where she aspires to become a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner. She has been the featured speaker for churches, law enforcement agencies, victims advocate groups, universities, and other businesses and organizations who work to bring public awareness of sexual assault and the effects it has on its victims.
Johnnie Kramer uses he/him pronouns and has been working in Mental Health since 2013. Johnnie has been a Victim Advocate and Crisis Counselor with the Victim Service Center for going on 3 years now. Johnnie has a passion for empowering others to overcome the traumas or difficulties afflicting them and to find their own road to recovery.
To find a copy of Diana Oakley’s book “Intended Harm” please visit her website: http://intendedharm.blogspot.com/p/about-me.html
You can listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/eBnu-5SD-oo
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
It is Suicide Prevention Week and in an effort to raise awareness VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Vice President of the Mental Health Association of Central FL Charlotte Melton and former VSC therapy intern Sarah Moore to talk about Suicide Prevention. Come learn about signs and red flags of suicidal ideation, stigmas and modern language surrounding suicide, and how you and a loved one can find hope through available and supportive resources.
Charlotte Melton uses she/her pronouns and is the Vice President of the Mental Health Association of Central Florida. A passionate leader in Mental Health Advocacy, Charlotte brings with her a peer perspective and 12 years of education and direct client advocacy.
Sarah Moore uses she/her pronouns and is a former therapy intern and volunteer with the Victim Service Center and a recent Rollins College clinical mental health counseling program graduate. Her personal and clinical interests center on the role trauma, resiliency, and healing influence individual, family, and community function alike.
For immediate crisis support, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800- 273-TALK (8255) or contact the crisis text line by texting “START” to 741-741. You can also contact the Trevor Project at 1-866-488- 7386 or text “TREVOR” to 1-202-304-1200.
You can listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wqea0nRUkxA
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On episode 23 of the VSC Podcast, VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell chats with two amazing employees from the Mental Health Association of Central Florida: Program Coordinator Faith Burns and Social Media Coordinator Mary Magee to talk about Mental Health Resources. Come learn about stigmas surrounding Mental Health, resources that are available, and how we can support a loved one.
Faith Burns uses she/her pronouns and has worked as one of the Program Coordinator's for the Mental Health Association of Central Florida (MHACF) since September 2019. As of March 2020 Faith also runs MHACF's live web series known as Coping Together where her team brings on professionals in the mental health field to discuss topics relative to COVID-19 and to provide wellness tools and coping strategies to their viewers in regards to mental health. She is currently pursuing a Master's in Clinical Psychology at the University of Central Florida, is fluent in English and Spanish and strives to become a bilingual therapist, specializing in trauma and grief counseling.
Mary Magee uses she/her pronouns and graduated from University of Central Florida with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. Since 2017, she has been the Social Media Coordinator for the Mental Health Association of Central Florida. She strives to advocate for those who have experienced mental health challenges and trauma by eradicating the stigma surrounding mental health.
You can also listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2AcW5Flge10
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On episode 22 of the VSC Podcast, VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Equality Florida’s TransAction Project Coordinator Nikole Parker and VSC Crisis Counselor and Advocate Kevin Fox to talk about Sex Workers and Sexual Violence. Come listen to Nikole and Kevin debunk myths about Sex Workers, talk about intersectionalities including the Trans Community, Modern Sex work including OnlyFans, and ways we can help support survivors of sexual assault in the sex work industry.
Nikole Parker uses she/her pronouns and is the TransAction Florida Project Coordinator, assisting with Equality Florida's statewide Transgender Inclusion Initiative. She also currently works for the onePULSE Foundation as the Stakeholder & Community Relations Manager. Nikole has sat on various non-profit boards within the community, including the LGBT+ Center Board of Directors, the Orlando United Assistance Center Advisory Board, TransAction Advisory Council, Spektrum Health Board of Directors and Peer Support Space Board of Directors.
Kevin Fox uses he/him pronouns and is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern with the state of Florida. Kevin worked as a high school teacher while receiving his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College. He has worked with adolescents with substance use issues, Equality Florida for LGBTQ+ rights, and in the UF Health Cancer Center at Orlando Health counseling and performing therapy with cancer patients and their families. His passion when working with clients is to help them increase their resilience and satisfaction with their everyday lives; he seeks to help clients increase their meaning from life and live more authentically and honestly.
You can listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qgYsvr_3njc
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On this episode VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Dr. Kimberly Spence from the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at UCF and VSC Programs Director JoEllen Revell to talk about Autism and Relationships. Come learn about Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), relationship challenges those with ASD can face, and how we can help those with ASD if they are victimized.
Dr. Kim Spence has served as the Coordinator of Educational and Training Programs for the Center of Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) at the University of Central Florida (UCF) since 1999 and as the Clinical Director of Autism Support Services for Specialized Treatment & Assessment Resources, a private forensic practice, since 2017. She has lectured nationally and internationally regarding treatment, specialized therapeutic intervention, and the creation of specialized sexuality education programs for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) for over 20 years.
JoEllen Revell is the Victim Service Center Program Director who oversees the Advocacy, Therapy, and Forensic Nursing Department. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years’ experience in clinical and administrative oversight.
You can also listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nLAQBxSusas
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On this episode VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with professor of psychology at Valencia College Jorge Valladares and VSC therapy intern Alexa Andino to talk about sexual intimacy after sexual trauma. Come learn about the physical, psychological, and social impacts sexual assault can have on survivors, what approaching sex after trauma can look like, and ways we can move towards healing for ourselves and our loved ones.
Jorge Valladares, M.S., M.A., is a professor of psychology at Valencia College and teaches general psychology, developmental psychology, and human sexuality. He has master’s degrees in general psychology and clinical mental health counseling. Jorge was also a Rollins College Social Justice pre-practicum intern with the VSC in 2019.
Alexa Andino is our therapy intern here at VSC. She will be graduating with her master’s in clinical mental health counseling in December. Alexa will like to continue working with sexual abuse survivors and believes sex after sexual assault should be talked about more often. Alexa hopes to educate more survivors about embracing your own sex life after an assault and how to move towards healing.
You can listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UofKq5rQyWY
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On this episode VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Title IX Coordinators from two Central FL Colleges: Sarah Laake from Rollins College and Matt Ricke from UCF. Come listen in on what Title IX really is, how these offices of equity and inclusion help support students, staff, and faculty, as well as learn about the changes to Title IX that are expected to come in the fall.
Sarah Lake, M.S. is the Director of the Office of Title IX at Rollins College, a role she has held since December 2018. She enjoys being a mom, cooking, watching sports (especially Gamecock football, Terrapin basketball, and Capitals hockey), and going to Disney.
Matt Ricke, Ph.D. is the Assistant Director of the Office of Institutional Equity and Title IX Coordinator for the University of Central Florida, where he has served since 2018. Matt has had the privilege of presenting locally and nationally on Title IX and gender-based misconduct, among other topics.
You can listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FxScbx3OgWo
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
To get connected with the Title IX office at Rollins College visit their website rollins.edu/titleix
To get connected with the Office of Institutional Equity at UCF visit their website: https://www.eeo.ucf.edu
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On this episode VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Detective Suzanne Ellis Clouchet and VSC Crisis Counselor and Advocate Jocelyn Rayas to talk about Therapy Animals, Osceola County Sheriff Office’s very own Therapy Dog Murphy, and how dogs and other therapy animals can help survivors of sexual violence.
Suzanne Ellis Clouchet is a detective with the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office in the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) working Crimes Against Children and Sex Crimes. She has been with the Sheriff’s Office for almost 21 years, working 18 of those as a detective, and has been in SIU for 17 of those years. Almost three years ago, Suzanne was blessed to start using her dog, Murphy, as the Sheriff’s Office first therapy dog helping to relax children that have been victims of abuse before law enforcement has to interview them.
Jocelyn is a bilingual crisis counselor/victim advocate at the VSC. Jocelyn obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and her Masters in Human Services. She recently moved down to Florida a year ago and is a huge animal lover.
You can also listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ddPmtYXYvCY
Follow Murphy on Instagram @k9murphy or on Facebook @kninemurphy
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On this episode VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with VSC Therapist Natalee Summers and VSC Therapy Intern Alexa Andindo to talk about Narrative Therapy, the power of sharing and retelling one’s own story, and how Narrative Therapy can help survivors of sexual violence.
Natalee Summers is currently a Contract Therapist with Victim Service Center specializing in Trauma Informed Care utilizing various and diverse Person-Centered interventions. She finds connecting with others through “their story” can direct the therapeutic healing process.
Alexa Andino is our therapy intern here at VSC. She is currently obtaining her masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at UCF and would like to focus with working with survivors of sexual abuse during her clinical journey.
You can listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VhQ_zkkH8UA
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On this episode VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Valencia College’s Assistant Director in Equal Opportunity Dr. Trisha Whitmire and VSC Advocate and Crisis Counselor Orialis Sosa to talk about Dr. Whitmire’s research on stalking, cyberstalking, what we can do to help prevent it, and how we can support a loved one.
Dr. Trisha Whitmire currently works as an Assistant Director in Equal Opportunity at Valencia College and resends to allegations of discrimination, harassment, and related misconduct, including interpersonal violence, sexual assault, and stalking and facilitates trainings for faculty, staff, and students on these topics. She recently graduated from the University of Central Florida with a Ph.D. in Sociology with a focus on crime and deviant behavior.
Orialis Sosa is a bilingual Crisis Counselor and Victim Advocate at the VSC and is currently pursuing her license in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in the state of Florida. Prialis has developed and implemented a DBT Skills Group at VSC to help victims / survivors with mindfulness and emotion regulation skills. She uses a trauma-focused lens and is passionate about fostering growth and healing through self-reflection, self-forgiveness, and self-acceptance.
You can listen to this podcast on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/qXmkwqZRZB0
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On this episode VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Planned Parenthood's Sex Educator Kathryn Ross and VSC Advocate and Crisis Counselor Emily Rivera to talk about Body Positivity, the effects it has on self-esteem and mental health, and how we can all practice it.
Kathryn Ross teaches subjects such as Birth Control, Safer Sex, Pregnancy, Healthy Relationships and more as the Sex Educator at Planned Parenthood. Everyday she gives back to the little girl in her, by giving youth the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. On her down time, she is a spoken word poet, UCF student and animal lover!
Emily is currently a Crisis Counselor and Victim Advocate for survivors of sexual assault and other traumatic events. She holds a Masters in mental Health Counseling and is a registered intern with the State of Florida pursuing licensure.
You can also listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bVGYbFZmeXM
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
This week on the Victim Service Center Podcast VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with VSC Volunteer Coordinator Shannan Webster and two amazing VSC Volunteers, Dr. Erin Hanson and Diana Oakley, to chat about the benefits of volunteering, how volunteers can help the anti-sexual violence movement, and to learn how and why Erin and Diana got engaged with volunteering at VSC.
Shannan Webster is VSC’s Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator of the last 2 years and has worked as a public servant for the past 5 years. She is passionate about engaging her community and connecting people to the resources they need.
Dr. Erin Hanson is a UCF Research Associate Professor in the Biological Evidence Section of the National Center for Forensic Science at the University of Central Florida (UCF). She has volunteered with VSC since 2018.
Diana Oakley is an author, a professional speaker, and a member of RAINN’s Speakers Bureau (Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network), as well as a VSC volunteer and member of our Speakers Bureau. You can find her book Intended Harm: My Escape, Denial, Healing and Forgiveness here: https://www.amazon.com/Intended-Harm-Diana-Oakley/dp/1937952126
You can also listen to this podcast on YouTube:
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Earlier this month we sat down with VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell and two of VSC's Advocates Kevin Fox and Emily Collins to chat about what this year's Pride might look like. Now as we close out the month of June join us once again as we reflect on what has happened this month from BLM protests to Supreme Court rulings while talking about the importance of intersectionality and what Pride really means.
Kevin Fox uses he/him pronouns and is a Registered Mental health Counselor Intern with the state of Florida. Kevin worked as a high school teacher while receiving his Master of arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College. He worked with adolescents with substance use issues, Equality Florida for LGBTQ+ rights, and worked in the UF Health Cancer Center at Orlando Health, counseling and performing therapy with cancer patients and their families. His passion when working with clients is to help them increase their resilience and satisfaction with their everyday lives; he seeks to help clients increase their meaning from life and live more authentically and honestly.
Emily Collins uses she/her pronouns and is an LGBTQ+ Victim Advocate and Crisis Counselor in an adjunct position between two agencies here in Central Florida: The Victim Service Center and Zebra Coalition. Emily has her Masters in Clinical Social Work from Florida State University. She has experience working with trauma in various settings and currently specializes in working with the LGBTQ+ community after they experience sexual assault. Emily is also passionate about raising awareness on various social issues through training and outreach.
You can listen to our podcast on Youtube @VSCflorida: https://youtu.be/twq4kfhOU-g
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Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Hi everyone! We are proud to present our first Spanish episode! Three of our bilingual crisis counselors, Maria Nunez, Orialis Sosa, and Rosa Abraham will be talking about crime victimization, special considerations for the Hispanic community, and helping Hispanic victims know their rights with or without citizenship. Next week we will have an episode on a reflection of Pride in English - thanks!
Nuestra comunidad hispana carece mucho de conocimiento acerca de sus derechos en los Estados Unidos y tristemente son expuestos muchas veces a ser victimizados. En base a esto, queremos ofrecer un espacio para educar a nuestra comunidad inmigrante sobre aspectos como mitos y realidades de una agresion sexual, barreras y choque cultural y servicos disponibles para nuestra comunidad.
En este episodio tres de nuestras consejeras en crisis bilingues, Maria Nunez, Orialis Sosa, y Rosa Abraham estaran hablando sobre “El impacto en las victimas inmigrantes que han experimentado algun tipo de violencia en los Estados Unidos” y que no conocen sus derechos debido al temor que presentan por su estatus inmigratorio.
Rosa es una Consejera en Crisis bilingue y Defensora de Victima en el Centro de Servicios de Victimas en la Florida Central en el condado de Osceola. Actualmente Rosa esta cursando su doctorado en Psicologia Forense. Ella tambien forma parte de Florida Crisis Response Team y miembro de equipo de respuesta especializadas en Florida Central para abogar por los individuos que se curan del trauma. Rosa es una apasionada de las artes y ha utilizados sus destrezas artisiticas en el proceso de recuperacio de nuestros clientes.
Orialis es una Consejera en Crisis bilingue y Defensora de Victima en el Centro de Servicios de Victimas en la Florida Central en el condado de Orange. Actualmente Orialis esta en proceso de obtener su Licensia en Salud Mental. Orialis ha desarrollado e implementado Grupo de destrezas para ayudar a las victimas/sobrevivientes con herramientas para manejar las emociones. En su tiempo libre Orialis le gusta reconectar con la natureza y realizar actividades en las afueras, siendo de esta forma una manera de autocuidado.
Maria es una Consejera en Crisis bilingue y Defensora de Victima en el Centro de Servicios de Victimas en la Florida Central en el condado de Orange. Maria posee una maestria en Trabajo Social Clinico y he trabajado la mayoria del tiempo con victimas del crimen. Ella cree en el poder de la sanacion individual emocional/psicologica ya que cada cual posee fortalezas que los pueden ayudar en el proceso de recuperacion. En conjuto con Orialis han ofrencen un grupo de apoyo en espanol para victimas de abuso sexual en la agencia.
Pueden escuchar nuestro podcast en el canal de YouTube : https://youtu.be/lSndEMbscpM
En este podcast vamos a estar discutiendo temas sensitivos incluyendo agresion sexual y eventos traumaticos. Es importante tener en cuenta nuestro nivel de tolerancia mientras escuchamos. Se recomienda escuchar cuando nos encontremos en un estado emocional estable y tener al alcance recursos de apoyo emocional de ser necesarios. Nuestra linea de crisis esta disponible 24/7 para residentes de Florida Central, puede llamar al 407-500-4325. Recuerda, siempre hay alguien dispuesto a ayudar.
With the Black Lives Matter movement and protests surrounding police brutality happening around the world, we decided to open a dialogue about Transgenerational Trauma in the Black Community for our Podcast this week.
On this episode Emilie Mitchell, VSC Education Coordinator, is joined by Michelle Ilugbusi and Sarah Moore.
Michelle is a born and raised Central Floridian as well as a recent graduate of the clinical mental health counseling masters program at Rollins College. She's an activist, mental health advocate, and anti-racism educator.
Sarah is a former therapy intern and volunteer with the Victim Service Center and a recent Rollins College clinical mental health counseling program graduate.Her personal and clinical interests center on the role trauma, resiliency, and healing influence individual, family, and community function alike.
You can listen to our podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4OLt2V89FI&t=6s
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Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
June is Pride Month and in this podcast we talk about the history of Pride and gains that can be made in the LGBTQ+ community through Pride. In this podcast we focus on the history of Pride which includes recognizing that the LGBTQ+ communities, many of whom were BIPOC, faced oppression and discrimination that led to the Stonewall riots. We recorded this podcast prior to the nationwide Black Lives Matter protests and we don't mean for this to distract or take away from the current conversations and gains to be made in the black community. Pride and LGBTQ+ community improvement could not and cannot occur were it not for the trans and black folx who fought tirelessly for their community before us. We hope you will learn more about the history of Pride and the LGBTQ+ equality movement from this podcast and will then built on that momentum to stand with your black allies in and out of the LGBTQ+ community. Learn how you can help here: https://bit.ly/3gSrfJm and here: https://linktr.ee/1thatgotawayy
Join VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell who sits down with VSC Advocates Emily Collins and Kevin Fox to discuss all about the history of Pride, Orlando's Pride, and what this year's Pride might look like.
Kevin uses he/him pronouns. He is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern with the state of Florida. Kevin worked as a high school teacher while receiving his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rollins. He worked with adolescents with substance use issues, Equality Florida for LGBTQ+ rights, and worked in the UF Health Cancer Center at Orlando Health, counseling and performing therapy with cancer patients and their families. His passion when working with clients is to help them increase their resilience and satisfaction with their everyday lives; he seeks to help clients increase their meaning from life and live more authentically and honestly.
Emily uses she/her pronouns. Emily is an LGBTQ+ Victim Advocate and Crisis Counselor in an adjunct position between two agencies here in Central Florida, The Victim Service Center and Zebra Coalition. Emily has her Masters in Clinical Social Work from Florida State University. She has experience working with trauma in various settings and currently specializes in working with the LGBTQ+ community after they experience sexual assault. Emily is also passionate about raising awareness on various social issues through training and outreach.
There are local LGBTQ+ resources in Central Florida who help foster and support the LGBTQ+ community, Zebra Coalition is one of those fantastic organizations. @zebracoalition
You can also listen to the VSC Podcast on our YouTube page @vscflorida.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
Tune into this week's episode of Victim Service Center Podcast where we are talking about Self-Care and how to continue practicing Self-Care while staying home.
On this episode Emilie Mitchell, VSC Education Coordinator, is joined by Yasmin Flasterstein. Yasmin is a young, hispanic, and bisexual leader in the mental health and LGBTQ+ community. Yasmin has been named one of 2019s Most Remarkable People by Watermark magazine and is currently the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Peer Support Space.
We are also joined by VSC Advocate Emily Rivera. Emily is currently a Crisis Counselor and Victim Advocate for survivors of sexual assault and other traumatic events. She holds a Masters in mental Health Counseling and is a registered intern with the State of Florida pursuing licensure.
You can also listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3EU7olfVpIQ
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
This week on the Victim Service Center Podcast we are talking about how Art can be used for healing.
On this episode Emilie Mitchell, VSC Education Coordinator, is joined by Rosa Abraham. Rosa is a bilingual Crisis Counselor and Victim Advocate at VSC and is currently pursuing a PhD in Forensic Psychology. She is also a member of the Florida Crisis Response Team and other community task force in central Florida to advocated for individuals healing from trauma.
We also have returning Brandi Godbee. Brandi is the Lead Therapist at the VSC and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She is trained in EMDR and is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Brandi has been advocating for sexual trauma survivors through VSC since 2012.
You can also listen to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts from!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
On the longest episode yet of the VSC Podcast, we are taking about how to keep relationships healthy during COVID-19.
On this episode Emilie Mitchell, VSC Education Coordinator, is joined by Jamal Baskin, MPA. Jamal works at Harbor House of Central Florida as their Prevention Coordinator. He teaches youth and trains parents on knowledge of prevention of domestic violence and serves the community through mentoring and community service programs. Jamal is a recent UCF graduate earning his Masters in Public Administration.
We also are joined by Kathryn Ross. Kathryn works as a sex educator with Planned Parenthood. She teaches subjects such as Birth Control, Safer Sex, Pregnancy, Healthy Relationships and more. Everyday she gives back to the little girl in her, by giving youth the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. On her down time, she is a spoken word poet, UCF student and animal lover!
You can also listen to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts from!
If you or a loved one are experience intimate partner violence and need assistance please contact Harbor House's 24-hour crisis helpline (407) 886-2856. To get in contact with Planned Parenthood in Orlando please call: 407-246-1788
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
This week on the Victim Service Center Podcast we are talking about Music Therapy and how it can be used to help survivors of trauma.
On this episode Emilie Mitchell, VSC Coordinator, is joined by Charniqua Snell. Charniqua is a board-certified music therapist and a student at Rollins College in the Masters of Mental Health Counseling program. Charniqua has been able to work with clients of various ages and abilities and has a passion for using music to promote healing.
We also are joined by Steven Wilson. Steven was a Crisis Counselor Victim Advocate intern at the Victim Service Center and has recently completed his Master's in Social Work. He is dedicated to helping our community heal through the empowerment and expression of their unique life experiences.
You can also listen to this podcast on our Youtube Channel
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
This week on the Victim Service Center Podcast we are talking about Denim Day and why it is still important today.
On this episode Emilie Mitchell, VSC Coordinator, is joined by Adela Hathaway. Adela is a mental health counselor and managing partner at Congruity Counseling. She has served on the VSC board since 2011, and is the current Vice Chairperson.
We also are joined by Lui Damiani. Lui is Executive Director of the Victim Service Center of Central Florida. His professional career in business and public service spans more than 30 years having served the Central Florida community as a County Commissioner, corporate executive, small business owner, governmental manager, television host and homeowner’s association president. He has a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Central Florida and he did his undergraduate studies at the Ohio State University.
You can also listen to this podcast on our Youtube Channel
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
This week on the Victim Service Center Podcast we are talking about Victims' Rights Week: What rights survivors of violence have.
On this episode Emilie Mitchell, VSC Coordinator, is joined by DeShayla Strachan. DeShayla is the staff attorney at the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence. She is a former journalist and former Orange County prosecutor. Most recently she worked as an attorney for DCF’s Children’s Legal Services.
We also are joined by JoEllen Revell. JoEllen is the Victim Service Center Program Director and oversees the Advocacy, Therapy and Forensic Nursing Department. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years’ experience in clinical and administrative oversight.
DeShayla can be contacted by visiting the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence's website at fcasv.org, by email dstrachan@fcasv.org, by her work cell: 850 408 5612, or by contacting the VSC through our 24 hour helpline: 407 500 HEAL or our office number: (407) 254-9415.
You can also listen to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts from!
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
This week on the Victim Service Center Podcast we are talking about Survivor to Thriver: How Victims of Sexual Violence Define Themselves.
On this episode we having joining us Gail Gardner. Gail is a member of VSC's Speaker's Bureau and is an author of two books: "Woman to Woman: Gleaning Inspirational Insight from our Biblical Mothers" and "Healing Scriptures: Declaring and Affirming God's Love." As a survivor of Sexual Assault and Abuse, Gail is passionate about mentoring women through engagement, faith, encouragement, inspiration, and empowerment.
We also have Brandi Godbee on this week. Brandi is the lead therapist at the VSC and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She is trained in EMDR and is a certified clinical trauma professional. Brandi has been advocating for sexual trauma survivors through VSC since 2012.
Gail's newly launched website can be found here: https://stillthekingsdaughter.com/
The friend Gail mentions in this episode is Rena Romano. Check out her Tedx Talk! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQ4RoldUzHc
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Out 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn abut your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
The Victim Service Center Podcast aims to normalize the dialogue of sexual violence and other social issues through housing discussions with professionals that serve victims and survivors of trauma, and those who have experienced violence.
This week on the Victim Service Center Podcast we are talking about COVID-19 and the effects it has had on Advocacy, Public Health, Survivors of trauma, and the LGBTQ+ Community.
On this episode we have joining us Kris Albers: Kris is the Director of the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Training and Sustainability Program with the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence. She is also an advanced practice registered nurse and a certified adult / adolescent sexual assault nurse examiner conducting medical forensic exams in her home town of Tallahassee, FL.
We also have Emily Collins on this week: Emily;s pronouns are she/her and she is an LGBTQ+ Victim Advocate and Crisis Counselor in an adjunct position between two agencies here in Central Florida, The Victim Service Center and Zebra Coalition. Emily has experience working with trauma in various settings and currently specializes in working with the LGBTQ+ community after they experience sexual assault.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.
The Victim Service Podcast aims to normalize the dialogue of sexual violence and other social issues through housing discussions with professionals that serve victims and survivors of trauma, and those who have experienced violence.
On our first episode of the VSC Podcast we focus on Start by Believing Day, a global campaign that encourages people to start by believing when someone in their life discloses that they were sexually assaulted. Start by Believing Day is the first Wednesday of April and you can take the pledge at startbybelieving.org!
On this episode we have joining us Sheronne: She is currently working as an insurance professional. She is also a survivor of a Sexual Assault which occurred almost 25 years ago during her freshman year of college. We also have with us Johnnie Kramer: He's been working in Mental Health since 2013 and has been a Victim Advocate with the Victim Service Center for going on 3 years now.
Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.