This presentation will identify behavioral health, medical, and law enforcement issues regarding domestic minor sex trafficking with a focus on risk factors, identification, treatment, prevention, and advocacy. Case studies will address the psychological impact, individual and group treatment for patients experiencing symptoms associated with their DMST involvement, the crucial practice-based skill of identifying and recognizing DMST involvement, the larger legal and policy/advocacy-based context of DMST, and the role of behavioral health professionals.

Educational Objectives:

Recognize the presentation, medical, and psychological effects of domestic minor sex trafficking

Discuss ways to identify and respond to adolescent patients involved in DMST, including treatment that is developmentally appropriate and trauma-responsive

Describe the role of behavioral health professionals in facilitating the interdisciplinary approach and advocacy needed to optimize prevention, treatment, and recovery

Level: Basic