The Mock House simulation is designed to give students an opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world context, focusing on child maltreatment investigations. The event simulated a case in which students act as part of a multidisciplinary team conducting an investigation. Throughout the day, students navigated the complexities of the investigation process, including understanding and applying trauma-informed care practices, responding to trauma, and making key decisions based on real-life scenarios.

Students involved in the simulation were from a variety of academic disciplines, drawing from Child Advocacy Studies (CAST), psychology, criminal justice, and other major courses. “The experience offers a valuable opportunity for students to integrate and apply the cumulative knowledge they’ve gained in their studies, preparing them for future work in child welfare, social services, law enforcement, and related fields” stated Lindsey Knochel, C-SC lecturer of psychology.

Rylee Loftus, a student in the program, shared her thoughts regarding participating in the mock house, “It was an eye-opening experience.” Jasmine Carter, another participant, added, “There is a complete difference between book information versus real-life situations. I recommend the Mock House—it’s a good life experience.”

The Mock House simulation is facilitated through problem-based learning, where students work collaboratively to develop and refine their decision-making abilities in response to complex and sensitive issues surrounding child maltreatment.

About the Forensic Investigations of Child Maltreatment Class
The Forensic Investigations of Child Maltreatment class at C-SC provides students with an in-depth understanding of the processes involved in investigating cases of child abuse and neglect. The program combines classroom instruction with experiential learning opportunities, preparing students for careers in child protection, law enforcement, and advocacy.

This comprehensive conference will provide mental health professionals, educators, and other human service helping professionals an opportunity to deepen their understanding of complex trauma and explore practical, evidence-based interventions. Attendees will gain valuable insight into the neurological, physiological, and psychological effects of trauma, and learn how to apply effective strategies for supporting those impacted by trauma—especially vulnerable populations such as immigrants, refugees, and individuals experiencing systemic trauma.

The event will feature a keynote address by Angel Knoverek, PhD, LCPC/LPC, ACS, on the impact of complex trauma, followed by three rounds of breakout sessions led by experts in the field, including Lindsey Knochel, MSW, LCSW, and Karen C. Simms, MFT. Session topics include: Complex Trauma & Neurobiology, Evidence-Based Strategies to Support Parents, Complex Trauma in Immigrant & Refugee Families, Complex Trauma, Schools, and Learning, Supporting Parents Who Experienced Intergenerational or Systemic Trauma, Complex Trauma and Substance Use, Complex Trauma and LGBTQ+ Youth and Provider Bias, Implicit Racism, & White Privilege. The day will conclude with an inspiring session, When Hurts Heal: A Message of Hope and Resilience, presented by Karen C. Simms, MFT, Director of Trauma & Resilience Initiative, Inc.

91ֱ��’s Director of Counselor Education, Dr. Angel Knoverek, serves as the Director for the States of Missouri (91ֱ��, Canton, MO) and Illinois (Mindshift Center, Quincy, IL) Complex Trauma training Consortiums. Dr. Angel Knoverek states, “It’s a great resource to have this level of expertise in our local tri-state community, especially to develop our helping professionals’ knowledge and best practices to work with individuals who have experienced complex trauma.”

Registration for the event can be found online at bit.ly/cts_2024. The event is $45 per general registration. General registration includes lunch and a certificate of attendance. Registration is free for C-SC students. Professionals in mental health, human services, and education are encouraged to register early to secure their spot for this important event. For more information or to register, visit bit.ly/cts_2024 or contact Dr. Melissa Holt at mholt@culver.edu or 573-228-6417.