Addressing the Toll of Vicarious Trauma through Awareness and Actions

Retreat and restore with fellow advocates at Highbanks Nature Center. This day is your day, designed for “taking care of you” because “you take care of others.” 

Come, immerse yourself in nature, engaging in community together, while practicing activities and techniques that allow for releasing tensions in the mind/body. You’ll be invited to explore the mind-body link of vicarious trauma with self-reflection and a shared discussion. We will talk about resiliency techniques that are shown to reduce the emotional and physical toll resulting from serving individuals victimized by harm and abuse. As a group, we will check out somatic practices like grounding techniques, gentle movements, and breathwork. You are strongly encouraged to bring along a mat, blanket or beach towel for chair and floor-based activities. ODVN will provide your lunch along with snacks and drinks. Feel free to bring what will help you to feel comfortable.

We have 50 spots available. We do ask if you commit to coming, that you honor your registration. If you are unable to come, you need to contact Sonia Ferencik, soniaf@odvn.org, right away so we can invite people on the waiting list. 

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

Location: Highbanks Metro Park, Nature Center Multipurpose Room; 9466 Columbus Pike, Lewis Center, OH 43035

Lunch: Snacks and lunches will be provided for registered attendees. Please share any food restrictions or allergies when registering.

Cost: Free for ODVN Members (ODVN Member Program or Individual/Organizational Membership); $50 for Non-ODVN Members. ***Note: If paying by check, please include the name of the training on the memo line. 



Deadline to register: September 13, 2024, or when capacity is met.

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 training@odvn.org.