I remember when I first felt the Holy Spirit speak to me about working with survivors of human trafficking. I knew I was ill-equipped and had no clue how or where I would come across someone who had been trafficked, but I just said yes and asked for doors to be opened. Sure enough, door after door opened, each one increasingly more involved and in-depth. Eventually, it became my full-time job.
I studied Biblical Counseling and, even outside of formal academics, spent a vast amount of free time learning and researching all things psychology. Formal education was valuable, but working closely with survivors in the daily care environment of a safe house provided me with the most practical and informative education I have ever received. Textbook knowledge is useful, but I am a kinesthetic learner who needs to be involved in the process to achieve full understanding.
I don’t think my education could have adequately prepared me for working in a safe house. One crucial aspect that school lacked was hands-on experience, where relational equity is of utmost importance. In counseling, building trust and rapport with a client is considered one of the most important factors for a successful outcome. However, the nuances of building relationships with individuals who have experienced complex trauma are not typically taught.
Storytime- I once worked with a survivor who did not share my enthusiasm for outdoor walks. Our first walk outside was far from successful and was certainly not the most enjoyable experience. She gave me the silent treatment for the duration of the walk. Her unwillingness to engage in conversation bothered her more than it did me. On our way home, she asked if I was upset with her for ignoring me. I simply said, “No, your actions, which were a result of frustration, do not determine whether I feel good or bad or how I want to be towards you.”
The point of this story is that had I been in that situation without prior experience working face-to-face with human trafficking survivors, I would have reacted very differently. Working with survivors taught me so much more than several years of schooling. I learned to develop compassion and understanding for behaviors that might seem illogical from a textbook perspective.
Ultimately, I want to encourage anyone reading this who has been called into the human trafficking space. Having letters behind your name is not the qualification. God will map out the journey and fully equip you as you pursue your God-given mission.
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