Exploring Evidence Based Practice Methods for Trafficking Survivors

Human trafficking is a major crime with millions of victims globally. The issue has come to increased attention in the past twenty-five years, and much progress has been made in rescue efforts by law enforcement agencies. Unfortunately, the same pace has not been seen in understanding the public health crisis associated with this, nor has much attention been paid to the psychological consequences and treatment. Although a number of risk and protective factors for the health consequences of human trafficking victims have been identified, there is still a dearth of information in the area of intervention and treatment. In reviewing current literature, we could not find articles comparing the different components of prevailing trauma treatment strategies, and the potential usefulness of these strategies in the treatment of human trafficking victims. To this end, we surveyed mental health professionals from Florida about their experience in working with this population and treatment strategies they have found effective in working with this population. Based on prevailing research, we also tried to understand the usefulness of current treatment strategies and methods used with this population. Based on the results of our study, we conclude that mental health providers who work with human trafficking victims should become aware of treatment efficacy. Further research on the effectiveness of treatment strategies used with victims/survivors of human trafficking is needed to validate our recommendations.