We'll be delving into two crucial topics for seniors: Supporting LGBTQ+ elders and providing information on sexual assault.

Our aim is to create a safe and inclusive space where we can discuss the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ elders and explore ways to offer meaningful support and care.

Additionally, we'll be shedding light on the sensitive issue of sexual assault among the elderly, aiming to raise awareness, provide resources, and foster a culture of compassion and empowerment.

Let's come together to address these important issues and ensure that all elders receive the respect, dignity, and support they deserve. See you at Hessler Heights for the April Monthly LSIN Meeting!

OUR SPEAKERS

Dawn Van Berkel is a Resident in Counseling* with 25 years of experience helping people. She has worked with a variety of mental health concerns, including trauma, sexual assault, grief, women’s life transitions, perimenopause and menopause, family conflict, parenting, and faith-based trauma. She is a sex therapy informed professional, certified trauma professional, EMDR trained, and is currently pursuing a certificate in nutrition for mental health. Dawn has two master’s degrees, in business from the University of Maryland, and counseling from the George Mason University.

*Supervised by Alexis Buckheit

Brooke Croft is a celebrated sex therapist with a background in psychology, research, and program management. Her journey began with a pivotal 8th-grade English assignment on mental illness, sparking her passion for therapy. She earned her BA in Psychology from the University of Southern California and later her MA in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University. 

While pursuing her degrees, Brooke worked as a Research Assistant at USC, contributing to the development of an AI bot used by the military to identify PTSD in veterans.

Transitioning from sunny Los Angeles to the blizzards of Brooklyn, NY, she served as the Program Director at Women In Need for six years. There, Brooke implemented Motivational Interviewing and Critical Time Intervention strategies to impact the lives of the unhoused in New York City. Throughout her tenure, she maintained a small private practice and discovered her calling as an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, specializing in serving the LGBTQIA+ community. Now residing outside Washington, DC, with her wife and two children, Brooke continues her work, empowering individuals and couples to have open, comfortable conversations about sex.