Topic: Understanding Why Human Trafficking Victims Stay and How to Support Their Path to Freedom

Human trafficking is a complex crime that thrives on manipulation, coercion, and control. One of the most commonly asked questions is, "Why don’t victims just leave?" This workshop will explore the psychological, emotional, financial, and societal factors that contribute to a victim’s entrapment, providing a trauma-informed perspective on the barriers that make escape feel impossible.

Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the psychological grooming process, trauma bonds, financial dependence, cultural stigmas, and fear-based coercion that traffickers use to maintain control. The workshop will also highlight ethical considerations for social workers and mental health professionals by integrating the NASW Code of Ethics, focusing on the core values of dignity, self-determination, competence, and social justice in serving trafficking survivors.

Through real-world case studies, interactive discussions, and survivor-centered best practices, attendees will leave equipped with strategies to build trust, provide trauma-informed support, and advocate for survivor autonomy. This session is essential for professionals in social work, mental health, law enforcement, education, and community advocacy who want to contribute to the fight against human trafficking with a compassionate and ethical approach.

By the end of the workshop, participants will:
- Understand the multifaceted barriers that prevent victims from leaving trafficking situations.
- Identify ethical and trauma-informed approaches for working with survivors.
- Learn how to apply the NASW Code of Ethics to anti-trafficking efforts.

Presenter: Mrs. Shakeeta Torres

Mrs. Shakeeta S. Torres, a vibrant Kingdomprenuer, Speaker, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Author, Certified Life Coach, and Certified Coach Trainer.

With over a decade of experience in therapy and social work, Mrs. Torres has been a Licensed Therapist since 2013 and a Social Worker since 2006. Her expertise includes specialties in Clinical Trauma and Grief Counseling, all rooted in a passion for professional growth and development.

Driven by her heartfelt mission to empower Christian Leaders to "Heal on Purpose for Their Purpose," Mrs. Torres captivates audiences as a dynamic Speaker and Workshop Facilitator. Her talks cover Mental Health, Faith, Human Trafficking, and more, sparking transformation wherever she speaks.

As the visionary behind Empowered Purpose Academy, she offers certification courses, mentorship programs, workshops, and books focusing on Mental Health and Spiritual Development. She is also the Founder of Doing It for the Kingdom., INC, is an advocacy-driven nonprofit educating communities about human trafficking.

Mrs. Torres' commitment to impact extends through her creations—the Faith and Mental Wellness Summit, Faith and Mental Wellness Directory, and the Faith and Mental Wellness Podcast—all designed to uplift individuals in their mental health and faith journey.

As an accomplished author, Mrs. Torres has written numerous books and workbooks on Mental Health, Faith, and Purpose while hosting the impactful podcast "Pain, Passion, and Purpose," delivering teachings on Mental Health intertwined with divine messages of hope.

In every role she embodies, Mrs. Shakeeta S. Torres radiates as a catalyst for transformation and healing, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives.

Cost:

Students: FREE

NASW Members: FREE

Non-members: $15

CE: 1 hour

Proof of attendance for CE will be distributed via email within one week of the webinar. Those registering as students will not receive CE for this event.

Once you pay, your money cannot be refunded and it will be your responsibility to find someone to take your spot if you can no longer attend.

Zoom link will be emailed out to registrants the day before the meeting.

If you don't think you have received the Zoom link, please check your Spam folder. If not in your Spam, please email Seth Maid at smaid.naswnc@socialworkers.org or Mary Choe at membershipassociate.naswnc@socialworkers.org for assistance BEFORE the LPU event begins.

Ideas presented by speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and policies of NASW-NC.