Alternatives to Domestic Violence, in partnership with Bergen County's Human Service Institute within the Department of Human Services, proudly presents a professional training workshop:

Audacious Resistance Strategies: What Survivors Can Teach Us About Dynamic Resistance, Intentional Adaptation, and Transformative Advocacy in Anti-Violence Movements?

Join us for a professional workshop that transforms your understanding of domestic violence advocacy by recognizing survivors as resilient, active agents in their story. Designed for both new and experienced practitioners, this session focuses on identifying systemic barriers to victim safety and supporting survivors’ resistance strategies. You’ll leave equipped with practical insights and actionable strategies to enhance your impact in domestic violence and victim advocacy.

Course Objectives:

In this workshop, participants will:

• Define domestic violence and coercive control, highlighting systemic harm to survivors
• Assess how intersectionality impacts survivors’ healing and resistance narratives
• Explore trauma-informed and feminist approaches that empower survivor advocacy Identify the strengths and challenges of resistance strategies in survivor stories
• Gain practice tips to support survivors in finding safety and leadership
• Learn strategies to promote equity and allyship against systemic inequalities in your practice

3.0 Clinical CEUs approved by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) for NJ Social Workers. Approval period 11/25/2024-11/25/2026.

Registration fee $45. Register and pay online by 1/17/2025. 

Presented by:
Laura Melendez, MSW, LCSW (she/her) is the Senior Training Technician at Alternatives to Domestic Violence (ADV) in Bergen County, bringing over 10 years of experience in advocacy for youth and families affected by violence. She serves survivors directly, develops community programs, oversees the 40-Hour Training Program for Victim Advocates, and coordinates youth empowerment initiatives. Laura holds a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from Cornell University and a master’s degree in social work from Rutgers University.

Sophia Traphagen, MSW (she/her) is an advocate and educator dedicated to primary violence prevention and community education. As a Training Technician at Alternatives to Domestic Violence (ADV) in Bergen County, she facilitates educational workshops and conducts focus group research and program evaluations. Sophia holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Marist College and a master

Event Type	Professional Workshop
Age Groups	Adults
Community Services	Family & Support Services Racial / Social Justice
Health Services	Behavioral / Mental Health Family Conflict & Distress Mental Health Teen Issues Womens / Mens
Payment Options	Self Pay

Last Updated: 12/05/24