An empowerment workshop, organized by the YWCA (Young Women’s Christian Association) of Los Angeles, addressed trauma triggers and tolerance at Long Beach City College.
The YWCA LA is an organization that provides support for women all over the Los Angeles area, assisting them with a hotline and therapy for all of their emotional needs.
These included dealing with sexual and physical assault and resources to deal with it that are easy and accessible through the YWCA.
The event was run by Kimberly Fernandez and Maria Garcia, two Psychology students at Cal State Long Beach who intern for the YWCA.
“I have a lot of counter transfer because I’m a survivor of sexual assault and domestic violence, so there is a lot of counter transfer that I have with a lot of my clients but I think just focusing on the fact that this is their time, this is their moment,” Garcia said.
The event had a low turnout but they are coming back to do a workshop on boundaries and sexual assault on Mar. 13.
The presentation was split into two halves, an oral presentation with a slideshow and then in the second half they made bracelets with the one attendee and offered easy to use stress balls and equipment.
The presenters explained that victims can reach out to the YWCA by calling their hotline (843-943-5778).
“I think the reason people don’t seek therapy is stigma of course, but also insurance,” Garcia said.
The event took place in a secluded corner of the loud Nordic Lounge and following a recent trend at the college it was barely promoted at all.
According to the presenters, they aim to enhance their presentation skills and talking points for their upcoming workshop on campus
They also emphasized that therapy and counseling are not limited to any specific group, and they offer services to women aged 12 and above.