Dr. JoAnn Jankoski, Assistant Professor of Human Development and Family Studies at Pennsylvania State University and a therapist in private practice, will speak in Rochester on August 4, 2010 at a conference on vicarious trauma sponsored by The Advocacy Center.

The Advocacy Center hopes to increase awareness about vicarious trauma because of the impact it can have on those in caring professions. According to Dr. Jankoski, "Often those who help others and care for emotionally wounded individuals are second handedly traumatized by virtue of their involvement. Human service professionals, including case workers, supervisors, administrative assistants, administrators, clerical staff and foster/adoptive parents, fall into the category of those who freely give of themselves to care for children and families. There is a COST for CARING. Human service professionals owe it to their clients and themselves to take the steps necessary to implement self care."

Participants will learn how to recognize the signs of vicarious trauma and how individuals and organizations can remain healthy and resilient in the face of difficult situations.