Episode 18 | Empowering Survivors of Human Trafficking with Esther Gomez

In today’s episode I speak with Esther Gomez, a registered Mental Health Intern in Florida. Esther has a passion for working with survivors of abuse and trauma and, more specifically, a passion for empowering survivors of human trafficking. Human trafficking, specifically child trafficking, has been a hot topic conversation on social media recently in the context of the pandemic and mask wearing. However, human trafficking is not new concept, nor is it a political concept, and whenever the pandemic is over and mask mandates are gone, human trafficking will still be a very real experience for so many humans. Esther shares her story regarding how she developed a passion for working with survivors of human trafficking, including her experience in South Asia working in the red light district. Esther defines human trafficking and what it looks like in the United States, as well as signs that someone may be trafficked.  Esther also discusses trauma in general and the impact of trauma on the brain and behavior. Further, Esther provides resources for us to learn more about human trafficking and how we can help.We discuss a lot of sensitive topics in this episode. Therefore, if after listening to this episode, you feel like you need some extra help or support, please reach out to a licensed mental health provider in your area. Human Trafficking Resources:https://humantraffickingsearch.org/the-role-of-trauma-in-human-trafficking/https://aspe.hhs.gov/report/treating-hidden-wounds-trauma-treatment-and-mental-health-recovery-victims-human-traffickinghttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2978168/https://www.gloryhouseofmiami.org/https://polarisproject.org/https://www.a21.org/https://www.ecpatusa.org/https://kristihouse.org/services/child-sex-trafficking/https://www.savethechildren.org/us/what-we-do/events/child-trafficking-awarenessConnect with Esther:IG: @strivewithestherWebsite: www.strivingmindsnetwork.comEmail: [email protected]: (786) 322-6732Podcast: Striving Minds NetworkAnti-Racism ResourcesWays to Work With Me:1:1 CoachingMind Over MatterLGBTQ+ Affirming MasterclassFollow me on IG @jessicaleighphd.Awakening Together, Relaxing into Happiness with William Cooper, M.Th., LPCExperience Awakening....Relaxing into your Being and, therefore, Happiness. William has...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show