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 Crisis Counselor at VSC, about perpetrators. Nicola and Shaye dive into the nuances of media portrayal, supporting survivors, and the various emotions and/or thoughts expressed 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, we would 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 caregiver can 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 where violence 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.

VSC Helpline: (407) 500-4325

National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673

National Domestic 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 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.

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!

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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.

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!

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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.

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!

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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.

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  

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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.

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

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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.

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

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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.

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!

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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.

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!

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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. 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.

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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.

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

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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.

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.

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

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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.

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!

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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.

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!

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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.

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!

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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.

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

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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.

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

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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.

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

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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.

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

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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.

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

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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.

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!

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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.

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

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

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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.

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

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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.

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!

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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.

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!

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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!

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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.

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!

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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.

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

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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.

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!

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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.

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

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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.

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!

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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.

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.

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

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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.

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

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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.

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

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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.

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

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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.

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 

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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.

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:

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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.

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

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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. 

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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.

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.

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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.

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

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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.

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!

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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.

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 

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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.