This webinar will review human trafficking risk factors related to the COVID-19 crisis. The presenters, Dr. Paola Contreras and Ms. Stacy Reed, will begin by providing an overview of human trafficking in the United States.

Using examples from their work with victims and survivors of trafficking, they will explain how the risk of exploitation increases with contextual stressors, such as the current health crisis. The presentation will close with a review of practice recommendations and local and national human trafficking resources to assist victims and survivors.

Paola M. Contreras, PsyD, is an Assistant Professor at William James College’s Counseling Department. She directs the Forensic and Correctional Counseling emphasis and is the lead researcher of the Human Trafficking Community Research Hub. She is RIA House’s clinical supervisor where she works with a team of providers and peer-mentors that engage people with experience in the commercial sex trade and its associated exploitation, trafficking, and prostitution.

Stacy Reed, MSW, is an author, poet, and supervisor of the peer mentorship program at RIA House. Stacy is a survivor professional who has traveled internationally with 20 plus years of experience working with people living with alcoholism, substance use disorders, prostitution, sex exploitation, domestic violence, mental health and HIV/AIDS. She is a dedicated and passionate woman who helps others move past challenging experiences for the betterment of their quality of life.

This webinar is hosted by the Center for Multicultural & Global Mental Health at William James College in Newton, MA.