empowerMEnt

Ms. Velazquez (she/her) is an accomplished professional in the field of rehabilitation counseling and mental health services, currently pursuing her Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) licensure. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Ethnic Studies with a Minor in Criminal Justice and a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling. Certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Susana is dedicated to addressing and alleviating the impacts of trauma through evidence-based practices. Her expertise includes Solution-Focused Based Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Interventions, and Motivational Interviewing, which she skillfully integrates into her individualized therapeutic approach. Susana has a strong background in research, having conducted significant studies on "Childhood Trauma Among Those Enrolled in Alternative High Schools and Formerly Incarcerated: Powers of Early Intervention." Her research delves into the multigenerational transmission of trauma and the school-to-prison pipeline, presenting findings that underscore the critical role of early interventions in mitigating childhood trauma. Susana has also completed an internship with the Anti-Recidivism Coalition, where she provided professional mental health services to formerly incarcerated individuals across various age groups. During her tenure, she facilitated evidence-based and trauma-informed therapeutic and processing groups, emphasizing mental health treatment and prevention. Susana’s dedication to community engagement and leadership, coupled with her deep understanding of trauma and its effects, positions her as a compassionate and effective counselor committed to fostering resilience and recovery among those she serves.

Ms. DiCicco (she/her) is a dedicated advocate and seasoned professional in the field of survivor services, currently serving as the Vice President of Survivor Services for the 3Strands Global Foundation. With a over a decade of experience in the mental health field, Ms. DiCicco's commitment to anti-trafficking work is evident in her extensive career, where she has accumulated over ten years of valuable experience working with individuals from marginalized communities. Her advocacy efforts have been particularly focused on addressing the unique challenges faced by survivors of human trafficking. During her tenure with 3Strands Global Foundation, Ms. DiCicco played a pivotal role in developing the Employ + Empower program. This groundbreaking initiative has successfully served over 800 survivors of human trafficking and individuals at-risk of exploitation. Ms. DiCicco's leadership and innovative approach have contributed significantly to the program's success in empowering survivors to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society. With her passion, expertise, and unwavering dedication, Ms. DiCicco continues to make a profound impact on the lives of survivors and contribute significantly to the broader mission of combatting human trafficking and exploitation.

Ms. Tanner (she/her) is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in social justice, advocacy, education, and leadership. Katy embarked on her mission to combat human trafficking 17 years ago in Amsterdam's infamous Red-Light District. As an advocate, she has provided crucial resources to individuals in brothels, conducted outreach initiatives throughout Western and Eastern Europe, and lead a comprehensive six-week seminar on the global sex trade. In San Diego, she dedicated her efforts to advocating for adults and families experiencing homelessness, focusing on those at risk of exploitation. Her impact extends to the implementation of prevention education programs tailored for diverse audiences, including school districts, NGOs, businesses, government officials, religious organizations, and caregivers. With a Master's degree in Global Development and Justice from Multnomah University, Katy brings a profound understanding of person-centered language and trauma-informed care to her work. Having served as a representative for the San Diego Trafficking Prevention Collective, she actively collaborates with others to champion the holistic well-being of marginalized and at-risk populations. Her passion lies in forging partnerships that better support her community, making a meaningful impact in the fight against exploitation.