Advocate Education and Support Project
The Advocate Education and Support Project (AESP) is a series created specifically for advocates and supervisors who work with victims of crime and violence.
Although rewarding, the work may also negatively affect advocates’ health and morale, sometimes leading to the development of Secondary Traumatic Stress (STS). These effects may include feelings of isolation, helplessness and a loss of hope. Concern about these effects and high rates of job turnover mobilized a group of advocates and clinicians to develop the AESP.
In weekly group meetings, advocates and supervisors from different settings—district attorney’s offices, health centers, shelters and other community agencies—come together to discuss the challenges of this work, identify sources of STS and create a network of support. Participants will develop specific strategies for both their personal and professional situations that will reduce the negative impact of the work and improve job performance.
We welcome you to join other advocates and/or supervisors to learn how your work may be affecting you and what you can do about it.
Download the AESP Brochure in English and Spanish
Group Training Opportunities
Professional Development Series for Advocates: This multi-week discussion group is focused on education about secondary trauma and on reducing its impact on the participants. Through didactic presentation, participatory exercises and discussion, advocates learn new strategies to help minimize the effects of STS. Groups meet during the workday for 8-10 consecutive sessions in accessible community locations.
Latino Series: This multi-week discussion series is designed for Latino advocates to address issues of STS in a culturally sensitive environment through bilingual discussion and attention to their unique needs.
Supervisors Series: This multi-week education and discussion group is designed for the advocates’ supervisors, focusing on the impact of trauma work on themselves as well as their supervisees. Participants will learn to recognize the signs of Secondary Traumatic Stress (STS) in their staff and work with them to develop appropriate responses. Goals include enhancing supervisors’ response to advocates needs and supporting a more healthful, positive, and effective work environment.
Staff Consultation to Programs and Agencies: AESP staff is available for presentations and/or consultations to introduce your agency and community to our program.
