An Introduction to Human Trafficking in San Diego County

In this episode we have guest K Thomas giving us an introduction to human trafficking. We will explore definitions of trafficking, common dynamics, local statistics, and how to identify and report an abuse.

North County Lifeline

https://www.nclifeline.org/human-trafficking

This page has two great videos on it. The “Human Trafficking and Recruitment of Youth During COVID-19” video gives tips for providers and parents on how to talk to youth about online safety. The “Ask the Experts Webinar: How to Get Involved in the Anti-trafficking Movement” gives practical ideas of how to get plugged in.

National Human Trafficking Hotline

1-888-373-7888

https://humantraffickinghotline.org/

There’s also some great information and resources for the general public too.

Humans Against Trafficking

https://www.humansagainsttrafficking.org/

Roger Martin is the CEO of this organization and always willing to give interviews about how they are creating tech to prevent and end trafficking.

K (Kathleen) Thomas, LPCC, NCC

K Thomas has been working with victim/survivors of sexual and relationship violence since 2010. During this time, they have worked in many capacities including case management, staffing crisis and emergency response hotlines, victim advocacy, and psychotherapy services. Providing services to individuals of varied identities, they have worked with victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, sexual abuse, stalking, and human trafficking. With a background in training and research, K has facilitated trainings on human trafficking, LGBTQ service provision, vicarious trauma, neurobiology, culturally responsive services, domestic violence, and trauma-informed care. K is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and also an adjunct faculty member of Bastyr University in the Counseling Psychology and Naturopathic Medicine programs.

As Clinical Training Manager for North County Lifeline’s Project LIFE, K has provided trauma-reprocessing, victim advocacy, emergency response, and psychotherapy to survivors of trafficking and exploitation. K provides training and development to staff, collaborative partners, community members, and service providers on human trafficking identification and services, trauma-informed care, cultural responsiveness, and best practice. K is also a co-founder and co-chair of the California Human Trafficking Advocates Network for Collaboration and Empowerment (CHANCE). When they aren’t advocating for social justice, K can be found cuddling with their dog, working on house plants, or playing video games with their partner!