A community response to community trauma

2^nd International Conference on Forensic Research and Technology

October 07-09, 2013 Hampton Inn Tropicana, Las Vegas, NV, USA

Monica Wilson

Accepted Abstracts: J Forensic Res

Abstract :

News and media sources suggest there has been no increase in the frequency of school shootings over the last decade. Media attention given to school shootings, however, has increased public awareness of these tragedies and created a perceived reality that frequency of school violence is increasing. A meta-review of current research and literature related to school shootings suggests American people may benefit from a comprehensive approach that responds effectively to community trauma. To date, many models of crisis intervention and trauma counseling seem to focus specifically on, and thereby isolate, a target consumer. More than a response to trauma according to population-victim, survivor, family, first responder-as much as possible, an inclusive response agenda that aims to provide support for all forecasted populations may produce better outcomes as communities recover from traumatic events. Additionally, effective therapeutic responses may reduce the inappropriate stigmatization that is associated with mental illness when an offender is said to have a psychiatric or psychological diagnosis. Accordingly, we propose a comprehensive, inclusive, community approach that strategically, purposefully, and sophically addresses the needs of individuals and families, who constitute the community, affected by a traumatic event. A discussion of evidence-based treatment modalities and suggested service providers, along with challenges to implementation and evaluation, is included.

Biography :

Monica Wilson has over 17 years Mental Health experience as a Clinical Psychologist. She currently serves as the Regional Lead and Assistant Professor of the Department of Psychology at National University. She is also the Governor Appointee and Chair-elect of the California Mental Health planning Council which provides oversight and accountability for the Governor and Department of Mental Health that oversees the Mental health Service Act for the State of California. She is also the Vice Chair of The Behavioral Health Commission for the County of San Bernardino in that role she advises the Board of Supervisors and Director of Behavioral Health on aspects of local mental health programs.

Email: mwilson2@nu.edu