When Abuse and Disability Intersect
Scheduled for to 00:00 am in Room 3
Presenter(s)
- Jayne Withers, MA, LFMT with Galveston College
Program Summary
| Many student with learning differences and/or mental health issues may also be abuse survivors. Neurological research in PTSD strongly indicates that brain structures are altered for developing brains that are exposed to abusive environments. Most college students who report learning difficulties, depression and anxiety, etc., will not disclose abuse. For higher education counselors and advisors, effects and awareness of childhood and relational abuse are critical when working with students. Many in education are afraid to ‘go there’ when speaking with students about abuse. However, going there provides the student a safe environment with someone who ‘gets it,’ and it may provide an opportunity to address issues that have hindered students academically for years. This session will focus on learning the effects of abuse on the brain, open the space for a student to safely disclose and what to do once it is disclosed. |
Learning Outcomes
- Basic effects of abuse on a the brain
- Make a safe environment to disclose current/previous abuse
- Learn how to respond to an abuse disclosure
Speaker Bio(s)
Jayne Withers, MA, LFMT
12 +years Counselor/Coord. Disability Services - Galveston College 12 + years Community/Clinical Director -SAAFE House