PRESENTER:

John C. Simoneaux, Ph.D.

OBJECTIVES:

Describe how Louisiana law defines “family violence” and discuss the short term and long-term criminal and civil implications

Explain different ways that family violence is interpreted by survivors and why clear “evidence” of such violence is often not available

Predict scenarios therapists might encounter that could result in under-reporting and over-reporting of family violence

Explain how bias, on the part of the reporter of violence, the therapist, law enforcement, the courts can lead to more danger for the survivor and injustice for the accused.

AGENDA:

8:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.  –  Registration

8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Louisiana law and violence – the interplay between the Civil Code, the Criminal Code, the Children’s Code, etc

What does it take in this state for someone to commit a “crime of violence”?

The interaction between divorce, child custody, and family violence

When “violence” may be under-reported and situations where it could be over-reported – what are the implications?

Situations frequently encountered by therapists when the experience of “trauma” has significant legal implications

How therapists can be pulled into court when assessing and treating suvivors of trauma

10:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. – Break

10:00 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

The dangers of under-reporting trauma experiences – missing the etiological significance of trauma

The dangers of over-reporting trauma – sometimes it is just too subjective

Trauma as it relates to family therapy, child custody, disability, etc.

Should we be communicating that trauma underlies virtually all emotional distress?

Is there potential for bias in assessing the impact of trauma?

What about profoundly resilient clients – what about profoundly sensitive clients

Personality disorders and trauma

12:45 p.m. – Adjournment

CE APPROVALS:

Psychologists – Professional Training Resources, Inc.  is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for Psychologists.  Professional Training Resources, Inc. maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

Licensed Professional Counselors – Professional Training Resources, Inc. has been approved by NBCC as an approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 5829.  Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified.  Professional Training Resources, Inc. is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.

Social Workers – This program has been approved for 4 clinical continuing education contact hours by the National Association of Social Workers, Louisiana Chapter, and may be applied toward the continuing education requirements for licensure renewal.

Substance Abuse Counselors  – approved by the Addictive Disorder Regulatory Authority for 4 clock hours.

NASP – Professional Training Resources is approved by the National Association of School Psychologists to offer continuing education for school psychologists.  Professional Training Resources maintains responsibility for the program.

Other Professions – may seek apply for education credits through their respective boards.  Everyone in attendance will receive a certificate of attendance for 4 clock hours.