CHaD-Sponsored Conference Explores Link Between Substance Abuse and Child Abuse

More than 125 area professionals from the fields of medicine, law enforcement, prosecution, social work, child protective services, mental health, crisis services and more gathered at a one-day conference at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) to share information and to learn more about the connection between substance abuse and child maltreatment in our region.

The event, "Shield Our Children from Harm—Sixth Annual Professional Conference: The Interface of Substance Abuse and Child Maltreatment" is a joint effort between Children's Hospital at Dartmouth (CHaD), the Child Advocacy Center (CAC) of Grafton and Sullivan Counties at DHMC, and the Child Advocacy Center at The Family Place in Norwich, VT. Specific presentations looked at such topics as identifying child abuse in homes where there are substance abuse problems, supporting addicted newborns and their families, therapeutic discipline systems for parents in recovery, treatment programs for pregnant women and women with children, and the impact that adverse childhood experiences have on adult health and well-being.

"We are very fortunate to have such a dedicated team of professionals in all the organizations that we work cooperatively with in Grafton and Sullivan Counties, and that is reflected by the attendance at today's conference," says CAC Program Manager Cathy Brittis, MSW. "Providing best-practice services to all the children and families impacted by child abuse in our area is something that could simply not be done without a multidisciplinary team working together with a common goal, and in the spirit of true cooperation."

"As the theme of this year's conference suggests, substance abuse can have a major impact on households and be a significant contributor to child maltreatment, "Brittis added. "Our goal is to help provide local child advocates and others with the tools they need to identify potential problems earlier, and to deal more effectively with issues once they have emerged."

Brittis says the work done by the CAC of Grafton and Sullivan Counties and the Family Place ensures that a multidisciplinary approach is being utilized in cases of suspected child abuse with a goal of reducing the trauma to children and families and providing justice and healing during very difficult times.

'Unsung Heroes' Recognized

Each year in connection with the conference, area individuals are recognized for their efforts that go above and beyond the call of duty in dealing with issues of abuse in our region. This year, three individuals were honored with "Unsung Hero" awards in recognition of their efforts.

"We have honored a number of individuals over the last six years, from a variety of different fields, but the one common denominator with all of them is that working to protect children is much more than something they do, it is a reflection of who they are, and they consistently go the extra mile to do whatever it takes to ensure a good outcome," Brittis said. "These people are true professionals and are real heroes to the people they serve."

The 2009 Unsung Hero honorees (at right):

• Martha Robb, Ph.D., Counseling Center of Lebanon, part of West Central Behavioral Health
• Cindy Vezina, a Victim Witness Advocate with the Sullivan County Attorney's Office
• Kelly Wallace, The Family Place, Norwich, VT

To learn more about the Child Advocacy and Protection Program at CHaD, please go to www.dhmc.org/goto/capp.