*Please note, this event is taking place at 11 AM EST / 8 AM PST / 4 PM UTC
While a substantial body of research exists on the connection between trauma and dissociation, the anti-trafficking field has largely overlooked this critical issue. The absence of attention to dissociation within trafficking literature has profound implications—thousands of survivors are left without the care they urgently need. Too often, when survivors disclose dissociative experiences, they are denied access to programs and services, further compounding their trauma.
This presentation will examine what dissociation is, its prevalence among survivors of human trafficking, the ways it impacts recovery and resilience, and practical strategies for effectively supporting survivors who experience dissociation.
About the Speaker:
Besides being a lived experience expert on labor and sex trafficking, Jessa is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado and a PhD candidate. Jessa has significant experience in survivor-centered and trauma-informed nonprofit management, ethical storytelling, safe house development and processes, and mental health treatment of survivors. When she is not working, Jessa enjoys doing puzzles, reading, and enjoying Colorado’s mountains.
Jessa is also a Strategic Advisor for Atlas Free. This means that she is available for 1:1 support! Visit our Strategic Advisor page for more information.