Description & Objectives

Continuing Education Hours: 1 CE for LPC, SW, LMFT, and Psychologists - NBCC Approved

Description: Rest and Safety as Radical Healing and Resistance invites therapists of female survivors of violence to reimagine rest and safety not as luxuries, but as powerful acts of healing, self-reclamation, and resistance. This presentation explores how chronic exposure to violence, oppression, and trauma often forces women into prolonged survival mode—characterized by hypervigilance, exhaustion, and self-neglect—and how intentional rest can interrupt these patterns and restore a sense of agency and wholeness. Grounded in trauma-informed care, nervous system science, and culturally responsive healing practices, the presentation reframes rest as a courageous and countercultural choice in a society that frequently rewards endurance over wellbeing. Participants are guided to understand how safety—emotional, physical, relational, and internal—is foundational to healing and how setting boundaries, slowing down, and prioritizing peace are radical acts that challenge systems that have historically minimized women’s pain.

Instructors

Monica Simpson

Monica Simpson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and the owner of New Pathways Counseling, PLLC. She and her team partner with individuals and couples to help them define their goals and move toward greater peace, balance, and emotional well-being. Monica is trained and experienced in working with trauma survivors, as well as with individuals impacted by family violence, including both victims and perpetrators. She is a certified facilitator of the 7 Principles for Making Marriage Work workshop and the PREPARE/ENRICH premarital counseling program. In addition to her clinical work, Monica serves as a board trustee for ChristianWorks for Children, where she plays a key role in expanding access to Christian counseling services for church members through ChristianWorks’ sponsorship program. With more than 10 years of counseling experience, Monica has supported individuals and couples in strengthening their relationships—with others and with themselves. She brings compassion and care to her work, grounded in a heartfelt desire to help people heal and grow. Outside of the office, Monica enjoys reading, camping, crafting, and spending time with her two-year-old granddaughter.

Kendra Forbes

Kendra L. Forbes is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with a Master of Arts in Counseling from Dallas Baptist University. She has been serving at her private practice, The Process Counseling Center, for over eight years, where she helps individuals experience transformation in their lives. Kendra holds a supervisor status as a professional counselor and is currently accepting LPC-A supervision candidates. She is also a registered pharmacist in Texas and Louisiana, having received her Doctorate degree in Pharmacy in the first PharmD class from Xavier University of Louisiana. In addition to her professional work, Kendra is actively involved in her community and church. She serves in the grief ministry and as a Sunday School teacher, demonstrating her heart for people every day. Kendra enjoys traveling, meeting new people, and relaxing on tropical beaches. She believes in the power of laughter and strives to bring joy to those around her.