Ep112 | Reclaiming Voices: Ending the Cycle of Sexual Exploitation with Reclaim13 Founder Dr. Cassandra Ma

Medicus

In this episode, we discuss the uncomfortable yet important issue that plagues our society - child sex trafficking. Dr. Cassandra Ma discusses what makes children vulnerable to trafficking, her work with the Chicago-based organization Reclaim13 in ending the cycle of sexual exploitation, and what healthcare providers can do to provide trauma-informed care.

Dr. Cassandra Ma, Psy.D., is the Founder and Executive Director of Reclaim13, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing healing services to survivors of sexual abuse, trafficking, and exploitation. Dr. Ma received her doctorate in clinical psychology and went on to complete a postdoctoral fellowship in marriage and family therapy at the Family Institute at Northwestern University, where she joined the staff team teaching and coordinating the Bette D. Harris Family and Child Clinic.

Reclaim13 forges healing pathways for survivors of child sexual abuse and exploitation. The healing programs include two residential homes for children and young adults. The Child and Family Program, serves survivors of child sexual abuse and exploitation and their families by pairing them with trained mentors and opportunities to meet with licensed therapists who specialize in trauma informed therapy. Reclaim13 also engages in prevention and engagement initiatives to equip individuals and communities about the cycle of child sexual abuse and exploitation.

In 2017, Dr. Ma and Reclaim13 were recognized by the Office of the U.S. Attorneys for the Northern District of Illinois for their work with victims of sex trafficking. She has been recognized by the Illinois Department of Children & Family Services for her compassion, dedication and commitment to the children and families of Illinois and has served on various advisory boards, including the Illinois Children’s Justice Task Force, College of DuPage’s Human Services. In 2023, Dr. Ma was recognized as Woman of the Year by the Rotary Club of Chicago.

To learn more about Reclaim13, visit www.reclaim13.org or email [e-mail] and check out the Reclaiming Voices Survivor Art show at www.reclaimingvoices.org

If you are in need of services, please visit www.reclaim13.org/therapy

Episode produced by: Rasa Valiauga

Episode recording date: 4/26/23

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