Child Witnesses: The Impact of Domestic Violence

Children and teenagers exposed to domestic violence have many worries, fears, and hopes in their daily lives. In 2022, Ohio’s domestic violence programs reported that nearly 5,000 children were residing in their shelters and in hotels with their parents. These are the children known to domestic violence programs, yet there are many more living behind closed doors, witnessing domestic violence and navigating mandated visitation.  Advocates working in shelters, community outreach, prevention, schools, and other settings must recognize the needs of child witnesses and their parents to support them as they navigate through their days and show their resilience.  

Join Sonia Ferencik as she presents on how exposure to a parent/partner who abuses creates an environment of chronic stress and unpredictability. This training will deepen your knowledge, enhance your engagement skills, and increase trauma-responsive strategies to support children and teenagers. Content will include an overview of child development, trauma reactions, and the complexities of working with children and teenagers using a mind-body trauma-responsive approach. 

Presenter: Sonia Ferencik, LISW-S, RA, 200-hr CYT, Youth Advocacy and Trauma Informed Services Coordinator, ODVN

CEUs: 2.5 CEUs are available for Ohio licensed social workers and counselors. To obtain 2.5 CEUs, you are required to attend the entire training and complete the evaluation. When you register, please include your complete license number if you are a licensed counselor or social worker in Ohio. Evaluations and Certificate Request Forms must be completed within 24 hours after the training to receive CEUs.

Cost: Free for ODVN Members (ODVN Member Program or Individual/Organizational Membership); $25 for Non-ODVN Members. ***Note: If paying by check, please include the name of the training on the memo line. 



Deadline to register: April 11, 2024.

Please share any accessibility needs and accommodations when registering for this event, including for American Sign Language interpreting. 



Upon registering, you should receive a confirmation email within 24 hours. If you have not, please contact [email protected].