Presented by Erica E. Rodriguez, Psy.D., MFT

Tuesday, December 10, 2024

8:30am-10am PT / 10:30am-12pm CT / 11:30am-1pm ET

Event held online via Zoom, link to access provided upon registration.

This program, “Assessment of Spousal/Partner Abuse: Intersectionality, Diversity, and Culture,” provides a comprehensive exploration into the complexities of intimate partner violence (IPV) as it intersects with diverse identities. The training begins by defining spousal/partner abuse, covering various forms of violence—physical, emotional, financial, and sexual. It emphasizes the importance of understanding IPV through the specific communities they are part of to underscore the widespread nature of this issue and the unique vulnerabilities faced by marginalized groups.

The program explores intersectionality, a concept introduced by Kimberlé Crenshaw, which helps frame the distinct challenges faced by individuals based on their multiple, overlapping social identities, such as race, gender, class, and ability. With the understanding that each of these identities shapes a person’s experience and response to IPV, highlighting the necessity for assessors to consider factors like race and ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and disability when evaluating IPV cases. The training stresses that cultural sensitivity is crucial to accurately assess and support survivors. This includes understanding the impact of cultural beliefs, family dynamics, and potential barriers to accessing help, such as fear of law enforcement, immigration status, and community stigma.

To support practitioners in conducting culturally competent assessments, the program provides practical tools for building rapport, using open-ended questions, and engaging in self-reflection to identify and work towards minimizing biases. Through this training, participants will gain skills and insights to assess IPV within a culturally diverse framework, empowering them to offer empathetic, individualized support.

Zoom link will be available on course page in “My Courses” upon event registration. 

This program, when attended in its entirety, offers 1.5 CEs for Psychologists, 1.5 IL CEUS for Counselors and Social Workers, 1.5 BBS California CEUs for LPCCs, LPSWs, and LMFTs, or 1.5 NBCC Clock Hours. (*NBCC Clock Hours are available for live program attendance only.)