Male Sex Trafficking: The Invisible Victims

Vet talking to counselor

Written by Mags Gullo, Program Director for Bob’s House of Hope In today’s world, most people have heard of human trafficking. When we think of human trafficking, most of us probably think of labor trafficking or the sex trafficking of women in other countries. The problem with this thought process is that we overlook boys and young men who actually … Read More

Self-Care & Community Care: The Importance of Incorporating Both Into Our Lives

Man breathing in fresh air outside

By Jordan Small, MA, LPC COVID-19 has impacted many people in negative ways. Research shows that people have experienced an increase in anxiety, depression, fear, social isolation, and a decrease in distress tolerance (Usher et al., 2020).  Additionally, research explains that the lack of in-person social connections has caused poor physical and emotional health (Usher et al., 2020). As a … Read More

How can parents and caregivers keep their kids safe from online predators?

Child alone on computer with connection graphics

By Kim Robinson, PhD This is a question we at Ranch Hands Rescue are often asked when speaking in the community. Our answer is simple. The greatest weapon in the fight against child sex trafficking is “INFORMATION”. It is the foundation for all of the other tools we use to combat this crime. This is a tough topic for parents … Read More

How to Relate Better with Your Children Using Play Therapy skills

Entry submitted by GERARDO BLANCO, MS, LPC, LMFT-S, RPT You may be asking yourself, “What is play therapy and why should I consider parts of this approach with my child.” Simply put, Play Therapy is aptitude in relationship. It is utilizing the art of relating and responding to build a relationship and increase a positive connection. One of the most … Read More

Triggers

I love the Trisha Yearwood song from the early 90’s, The Song Remembers When, in which she sings about hearing a song on the radio. As a therapist now I recognize this as a trigger. It stirred a memory of a past relationship and she describes her reaction: “It was like a lighted match had been tossed into my soul … Read More

What You Can Do to Help Stop Human Trafficking

By Dr. Kim Robinson As a licensed Psychologist and counselor working at Ranch Hands Rescue, I am proud to have the privilege of educating my spheres of influence about the heinous crime of human trafficking. This has truly been some of the most gratifying work that I have engaged in since working as a psychologist. I am a part of … Read More

The Power of Working with Animals

By Monique Van Houten, MS, LPC-Associate Supervised by Supervised by Joye Jones, LPC-Supervisor I have heard time and time again from clients, friends, and family that animals are “supportive” and they “make me feel better”. I have often wondered why this is, finding myself thinking that there has to be more to it than they are cute. When looking into … Read More

Social Media Promotes Human Trafficking, But You Can Keep Your Child Safe

In the last few decades, social media has made itself a regular part of life for many people. There are many different platforms catered to different purposes, interests and generations. Whether your interests are video games, memes, politics or even genuinely stoked goats (yes, that is a real Facebook page), there is a social media landscape perfect for you. Even … Read More

Five Ways YOU Can Combat Sex Trafficking

Sex trafficking is human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation, including sexual slavery. Trafficking victims are women, men, boys and girls. At Ranch Hands Rescue, we believe there are five key ways you can help combat this form of modern day slavery. 1.  Be Aware of the Signs The first step is to know what to look for. You … Read More

Wired to Adapt

Adaptive: to make fit (as for a new use) often by modification Maladaptive: marked by poor or inadequate ability to modify to fit Humans are the most successful mammals on the planet BECAUSE we are the best at adaptation. We can adapt to fit nearly any climate, circumstance, or challenge. This is largely due to our massive neocortex, and specifically … Read More