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In this episode of the VSC Podcast, host Olivia Oropeza discusses the different entities who work together to provide survivors of sexual violence with the car and justice they deserve after experiencing a sexual assault. In popular media, we don’t always see the coordinated efforts that go on behind the scenes. However, in real life, collaboration is the key to justice. Episode 2 Segment 1: Law Enforcement – Detective Rick Salcedo UCF Detective Rick Salcedo shares the role of law enforcement in how they work alongside other entities to support survivors. Rick Salcedo is a Sex Crimes Detective at the University of Central Florida’s Police Department. Prior to working at UCF’s Police Department, Rick worked for the Orlando Police Department for 26 years and created their Orlando Police Department’s Special Victims Response Team (SVRT), which consists of 32 volunteer patrol officers/first responders who respond to sex crimes and child abuse cases. Episode 2 Segment 2: Forensic Nursing – Mary Yoder, SANE/FNE Nurse, Volusia County SANE/FNE Nurse Mary Yoder shares why forensic evidence collection is important, how nurses collaborate with law enforcement and advocates, as well as unique ways her role makes a difference. When someone experiences sexual violence, one of the most important steps in both the healing journey and the pursuit of justice is forensic evidence collection. These exams are conducted by specially trained forensic nurse examiners, who not only collect vital evidence after an assault, but also provide compassionate, trauma-informed care to their patients during one of the most difficult moments of their lives. Episode 2 Segment 3: Dr. Erin Hanson, Ph.D. Forensic Scientist Dr. Erin Hanson, Ph.D. explains how advancements in technology are transforming the way we pursue justice for survivors. In this segment, Dr. Erin Hanson discusses how advancements in forensic science are shaping investigations, strengthening cases, and ultimately, bringing closure and justice to survivors. Additionally, Dr. Erin Hanson shares more about her background in forensic science and DNA analysis and why this is essential when it comes to sexual assault. Below are hotlines we recommend: VSC Helpline: (407) 500-4325 National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673 Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠myflfamilies.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to report online. Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc. 2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210 Orlando, Florida 32806 [email protected] ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the VSC Podcast, host Olivia Oropeza introduces a new program that VSC has launched in partnership with Orlando Ballet. This initiative uses the power of movement and dance to promote healing, empowerment and reconnection for survivors of violence, abuse and trauma. Guests interviewed include Co-creators Brandi Godbee and Shane Bland and Emotions in Motion participant Renzo. Brandi Godbee, Lead Therapist/Clinical Manager at Victim Service Center, Co-creator of Emotions in Motion - Brandi is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor. Education: Master's degree with Honors in Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College and a Bachelor's degree in English. Trained in EMDR & DBT. Shane Bland, Head of Community Enrichment at Orlando Ballet and Co-creator of Emotions in Motions - As head of Orlando Ballet’s Community Enrichment Division, Shane is a dynamic theater artist with an accomplished career spanning Broadway, national tours, regional theater, television, choreography, and directing. His Broadway credits include Bombay Dreams, Show Boat (Harold Prince), and Disney’s The Lion King. In Orlando, Shane has starred in Ain’t Misbehavin’, Cabaret (as the Emcee at Orlando Shakes), and Beauty and the Beast (as The Beast at the Garden Theatre). His choreography credits include Frozen Jr., Matilda (Broadway World Nominee), and Hairspray. Shane also serves as an adjudicator for the Applause Awards, supporting young performers across the region. Below are hotlines we recommend: VSC Helpline: (407) 500-4325 National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673 Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit ⁠⁠⁠myflfamilies.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to report online. Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc. 2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210 Orlando, Florida 32806 [email protected] ⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

This episode focuses on how individuals—especially thosenavigating dating and romantic relationships—can stay safe, assert their needs, and foster mutual respect. While love and connection are universal, dating can also come with risks. From personal safety to consent conversations to boundary-setting, this episode equips viewers with tools to navigate dating with confidence and clarity. Prevention isn’t just about avoiding harm—it’s about empowering people to choose healthy, respectful relationships.   In our first segment, we’re joined by Keri Higby, ProgramSpecialist with the Seminole County Sheriff's Office and Adjunct Professor at the University of Central Florida. Keri created the S.A.F.E. Women’s Self-Defense program and brings over a decade of experience in crime prevention, empowerment education, and community safety.   In our second segment, we’re joined by Natasha D’Arcangelo,a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who works closely with clients processing trauma and rebuilding their sense of self. Natasha’s work frequently involves helping individuals explore what healthy love and connection look like—especially when they’ve experienced harm or have never had a model for respectful relationships.   In our third segment, we are joined by Corrine Phillips, aForensic Nurse Examiner with the Victim Service Center. Corrine works directly with survivors of sexual violence and brings valuable insight into the real-world impact of consent misunderstandings and dating violence.   Guest Speakers   Keri Higby Title: Specialized Services Senior Program Specialist;Adjunct Professor Organization: Seminole County Sheriff's Office; UCF [email protected] or [email protected],407-474-5127   Natasha D’Arcangelo, LMHC Title: Licensed Mental Health Counselor Organization: LBee Health Contact information to be displayed on screen: LBee Healthwww.lbeehealth.com [email protected]   Corrine Phillips, FNE Title: Forensic Nurse Examiner Coordinator Organization: Victim Service Center of Central Florida Below are hotlines we recommend: VSC Helpline: (407) 500-4325 National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673 Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit ⁠⁠myflfamilies.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ to report online. Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc. 2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210 Orlando, Florida 32806 [email protected] ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

This episode explores the understanding of the intersection of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and sexual violence prevention—including breaking stigmas, clarifying neurodiverse experiences in relationships, and promoting safety and respect. Individuals with ASD and neurodivergence experience the world in a unique way. However, they also face disproportionate rates of marginalization, discrimination and violence. Additionally, this group is more than 3 times as likely to experience sexual violence compared to those without disabilities. At VSC, we aim to understand the nuances of neurodivergence and how we can all be a part of protecting and supporting this community. In our first segment, we’re joined by Maria Torres, a volunteer for the Autism Society of Florida, an educator in the field and a parent of a child affected by autism spectrum disorder. Maria shares some of the safety challenges that she see’s children with autism struggling with today – including wandering and being drawn to water, which increases the risk of drowning. Also, Maria discusses the importance of families seeking support groups and community. In the second segment, we’re joined by Michelle Zeman, a neurodivergent self-advocate, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, and co-host of the REACH podcast—an initiative from the Autism Society of Florida. Michelle uses both personal experience and professional insight to uplift neurodivergent voices, challenge stigma, and expand the conversation around relationships, communication, and safety. In the third segment, we're joined by Catharine Warren, an Autism Specialist with the UCF Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. Catharine will share how CARD supports individuals, families and professionals in creating safer, more inclusive spaces for people on the autism spectrum. For many neurodivergent individuals, safety is a concern. Catharine shares some of the practical safety strategies that have been effective in supporting neurodivergent people and protecting their family. Guest Speakers Marria Torres: volunteer, educator, parent and volunteer at Autism Society of Florida Michelle Zeman: Host of the REACH PodcastOrganization: Autism Society of Florida. REACH - https://www.autismfl.org/reachSafe Space the ABA Podcast - https://www.safespaceaba.com/ IG - @theautisticbehavioranalyst Catharine Warren: Autism Spectrum Disorders Specialist at UCF Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD)UCF Center of Autism and Related Disabilities Contact method: Phone: 407-823-6011 or Email [email protected] Website: https://ucf-card.org/ Below are hotlines we recommend: VSC Helpline: (407) 500-4325 National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673 Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit ⁠myflfamilies.com⁠⁠⁠ to report online. Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc. 2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210 Orlando, Florida 32806 [email protected] ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠

This episode explores how we, as a community, can raise boys into men who reject harmful gender stereotypes, respect others, and contribute to a culture free from violence. While prevention often focuses on protecting women, we must also empower boys with the tools and guidance to become upstanders—leaders in empathy, respect, and accountability. In our first segment, we’re joined by Dr. L. Trenton S. Marsh, Assistant Professor of Urban Education at the University of Central Florida and the founder of H.O.P.E. Circle—a youth-driven initiative based in the historic Parramore neighborhood that gives boys of color a safe space to explore mental health, identity, and leadership. In our second segment, we broaden the lens to look at how community leadership can shape safe, supportive pathways for youth—especially boys and young men who are too often overlooked. Joining us is Commissioner Mike Scott, Vice Mayor and Orange County District 6 Commissioner. A lifelong Orlando resident, Air Force veteran, and passionate youth mentor, Commissioner Scott brings a community-centered perspective to leadership and community. In our third segment, we're focusing on culture—and how it shapes the way boys learn to express themselves, seek help, and treat others. Joining us is Fidel Gomez Jr., a community educator and advocate at Hope CommUnity Center in Apopka, Florida. Fidel works directly with youth and is here to provide some insights on gender norms and machismo. Guest Speakers Dr. L. Trenton S. Marsh, Associate Professor of Urban Education at the University of Central Florida and the founder of H.O.P.E. Circle—a youth-driven initiative based in the historic Parramore neighborhood that gives boys of color a safe space to explore mental health, identity, and leadership. Website: www.wearehopecircle.com Commissioner Michael “Mike” Scott, District 6 Commissioner for City of Orlando Fidel Gomez Jr., LGBTQ+ & Immigrant Justice Organizer for Hope CommUnity Center. Email: [email protected] Website: www.hcc-offm.org Instagram: @hccapopka Below are hotlines we recommend: VSC Helpline: (407) 500-4325 National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673 Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit myflfamilies.com⁠⁠ to report online. Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc. 2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210 Orlando, Florida 32806 [email protected] ⁠Website⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠

In this episode, VSC Education and Prevention Manager Oliva discusses the intersection between substance use and trauma. The relationship between substance use and victimization is complex and deeply intertwined. Research shows that people who have experienced sexual violence are more likely to develop substance use disorder – often as a way to cope with their trauma. At the same time, those who struggle with substance abuse are often at a higher risk of being victimized. This cycle can be incredibly difficult to break but healing, recovery and empowerment is all possible. First guest being interviewed is Sarah Shoulak, founder of Sober Betties – a social group that brings people together for alcohol free-experiences in a fun, retro-inspired atmosphere. Sarah’s journey of sobriety is one of resilience and transformation. They are using their story to help others find joy and community without alcohol. Second guest being interviewed is Heather Parker – an Outreach Specialist from Recovery Connections of Central Florida. Recovery Connections is a peer-led nonprofit dedicated to supporting people in recovery. You will hear their story and dive into the incredible resources available for those looking for support on their journey to recovery. Below are hotlines we recommend: VSC Helpline:(407) 500-4325 National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673 Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit ⁠myflfamilies.com⁠ to report online Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc. 2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210 Orlando, Florida 32806 [email protected] Website ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠

This episode will focus on vulnerable populations - those who may be at higher risk of exploitation, abuse or violence. VSC Education and Prevention Manager Oliva will discuss three specific groups: children, people with disabilities, and older adults. Each of these populations faces unique risks. By raising awareness and providing these resources, we can all play a role in prevention and support. In the first segment, we will be discussing how to keep children safe online. Guest interviewed will be Detective Hannah Crowe, who works in the Crimes Against Children Unit for the Orlando Police Department. She investigates and helps prevent online crimes targeting minors, ensuring that offenders are held accountable and families have the tools they need to stay safe. In the second segment, we will be discussing individuals with disabilities and how we can empower them and support their independence. Guest interviewed will be Natalia Piedrahita, Program Director for the Center for Independent Living or the CIL. The Center for Independent Living has been breaking down barriers for people with disabilities since 1976 and providing a wide range of services from advocacy and skills training to peer support and community inclusion. In the third segment, we will be discussing how to protect and support older adults – another vulnerable population in our communities. Guest interviewed is Deputy Khayree Pender from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. Deputy Pender has firsthand experience working with senior citizens and their families. He is going to be sharing valuable insights on how we can keep our elders safe. Let’s hold space, listen, learn and heal together. Below are hotlines we recommend: VSC Helpline:(407) 500-4325 National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673 Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit myflfamilies.com to report online Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc. 2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210 Orlando, Florida 32806 [email protected] ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠

On this episode of the Victim Service Podcast, we explore the importance of trauma-informed care and its role in a survivor's healing journey. In the first segment, Tamara Nelson, LMHC and Certified Trauma-Informed Yoga Therapist will be discussing trauma-informed care – an understanding in the way that trauma affects the way a person thinks, feels and behaves. Trauma-informed care means creating a world that can foster growth, resiliency, and healing. It is also anticipating how trauma survivors may respond to our words and actions and doing our part to create a world that does not cause further harm. In the second segment, VSC Victim Advocate and Crisis Counselor Tish Olasande will be sharing what a trauma-informed crisis response looks like. At the Victim Service Center, Advocacy and Crisis Counselors are the first person that a victim meets with. There are several sessions the victim goes through – starting with an intake and other sessions include forming a crisis plan, creating personal goals and helping victims navigating the judicial system. Victim Advocates and Crisis Counselors help lay the foundation for the healing journey. Let’s hold space, listen, learn and heal together. Below are hotlines we recommend: VSC Helpline:(407) 500-4325 National SexualAssault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673 Florida AbuseHotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit myflfamilies.com to report online Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc. 2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210 Orlando, Florida 32806 [email protected] ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ ⁠⁠TikTok⁠

On this episode of the Victim Service Center Podcast, wedive into the roles of different professionals who support survivors, focusing on the importance of advocacy and medical care. In the first segment, VSC Lead Victim Advocate NicolaPrichard will share how she provides direct support and resources to our survivors. Nicola has her master’s in social work and has worked with the Child Advocacy Center in Osceola before working for the Victim Service Center ofCentral Florida. In the second segment Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner ChrisBemis, BSN, RN, SANE-A will discuss the unique role of SANEs in supporting survivors. In the third segment, Lead Victim Advocate Nicola Prichardis back to debunk some of the myths around sexual violence and supporting survivors. There is a prevalence of misconceptions about sexual violence that canmake it more difficult to work through their healing journey. If you or someone you know needs help, please call our helpline at 407-500-4325. We’re here to share stories, amplify voices, and provide life-saving information and resources because healing starts with connection and you are not alone. New episodes are on the way. Subscribe on Spotify, follow us on social media @VSCflorida and visit ⁠victimservicecenter.org⁠ for more ways to learn, support and get involved. We can’t wait to connect with you! Let’s hold space, listen, learn and heal together. Below are hotlines we recommend: VSC Helpline:(407) 500-4325 National SexualAssault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673 Florida AbuseHotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit myflfamilies.com to report online Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc. 2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210 Orlando, Florida 32806 [email protected] ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠TikTok⁠

This season on the VSC Podcast, we’re diving deeper than ever into the conversations that matter. From the intersection of substance use and sexual violence, to the powerful journey of choosing sobriety while healing, we’ll explore the path survivors walk everyday. We’ll talk about what it means to protect the most vulnerable in our communities and how trauma-informed care is transforming lives. How we can all be a part of a culture of safety, empathy, and hope. Whether you’re a survivor, a professional or an ally, this season is for you. Brought you by the Victim Service Center of Central Florida, your certified rape crisis center. We’re proud to offer free, confidential support 24/7. If you or someone you know needs help, please call our helpline at 407-500-4325. We’re here to share stories, amplify voices, and provide life-saving information and resources because healing starts with connection and you are not alone. New episodes are on the way. Subscribe on Spotify, follow us on social media @VSCflorida and visit victimservicecenter.org for more ways to learn, support and get involved. We can’t wait to connect with you! Let’s hold space, listen, learn and heal together. Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc. 2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210 Orlando, Florida 32806 [email protected] Facebook YouTube Instagram LinkedIn TikTok

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 insightful podcast episode featuring guest Sally Leslie, an inspiring LGBT+ survivor of narcissistic abuse and host of her own podcast: Reclaiming Pride: LGBT+ Survivors of Narcissistic Abuse, she candidly shares her personal journey of healing and self-discovery. Sally discusses the unique challenges faced within the context of her LGBT+ identity and how the abuse impacted her sense of self-worth. She sheds light on the abuser's tactics, emphasizing their exploitation of vulnerabilities related to her LGBT+ identity. Sally explores the profound process of reclaiming pride, detailing initial steps taken to rebuild self-esteem post-abuse. The episode addresses the impact on relationships within the LGBTQ+ community and offers advice for those facing similar challenges. Sally highlights the crucial role of professional help, therapy, and support from friends and chosen family in her recovery. Reconnecting with authenticity and combating self-doubt are key themes, with Sally providing valuable advice for others in similar situations. For survivors, she recommends resources and strategies for reclaiming pride and moving forward from narcissistic abuse. Sally Leslie's narrative serves as an empowering source of inspiration and guidance for navigating the intersection of LGBT+ identity and the journey to healing. ----------------------------------- Trigger Warning: In this podcast, we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.

In this episode, VSC's Educator, Hannah Jenarine speaks with a diverse array of experts and professionals to help us understand the Black Maternal Mortality Crisis. Jamie Homan provides an Advocacy Perspective and Melissa Tran shares therapeutic approaches. More about our panelists: Melissa Tran is a Marriage and Family Therapist and the Military Sexual Trauma Coordinator at Orlando VA Healthcare System. She leads the Perinatal Reproductive Education Planning and Resources (PREPARe) service, which has garnered national recognition through the achievement of the 2021 Dr. Robert L Jesse Award for Innovation. Ms. Tran is also an instructor for Nova Southeastern Kiran C Patel and University of Central Florida Colleges of Medicine and supports the diversity, equity, and inclusion team at OVAHCS.   Jaimie received her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Central Florida and has ten years of experience counseling children, teens, and adults with a clinical specialization in sexual assault, trauma, and abuse recovery. She is also involved in international nonprofit work as well as international adoption, serving on the board of directors at Priority One Worldwide, Inc. and Children’s House International as an adoption social worker. Jaimie’s interactions with diverse and courageous people in crisis compelled her to pursue a career in counseling and advocacy. Working with sexual assault survivors is and has been one of her greatest professional privileges and callings, and she is honored to be able to provide services to the individuals who call on the VSC for support.

In this episode, VSC's Educator, Hannah Jenarine speaks with a diverse array of experts and professionals to help us Understand the Impact of Children Witnessing Domestic Violence. Leslie Pender provides us with a Clinical/Psychological Perspective and Kendall Johnson shares how the dynamic shifts when children live in a Narcissistic household. More about our panelists: NAS Founder & CEO Kendall T. Johnson is a best-selling author, beauty industry expert, and motivational speaker known for her engaging presentations on issues related to narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, abandonment, divorce, incarceration, drug addiction, child molestation, failed relationships, and generational cycles of heartache and pain. Leslie Pender is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida and the private practice owner of Seeds of Transition Counseling Services, LLC which is in the Metrowest area of Orlando, FL. Ms. Pender earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science with a concentration in Sociology from the University of Maryland University College and her Master of Science degree from Capella University in Mental Health Counseling. It was during her residency for licensure that Ms. Pender began to focus her research on social justice advocacy and cultural competency within the mental health counseling field. Ms. Pender’s work as a LMHC has consisted of collaborative work with the Florida Department of Children and Families and other agencies in which she has advocated for practices and policies that provide mental health services for children and families within the foster care system from a trauma-informed care and culturally competent perspective.