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The Intersection of Violence and Vulnerability: Perinatal Health Challenges
This presentation addresses the critical issue of domestic violence during pregnancy and postpartum, equipping healthcare providers, social workers, mental health professionals, and advocates with the tools to support survivors. Participants will explore key terms, statistics, and dynamics of domestic violence in the perinatal period, including the often-overlooked role of financial abuse.
The session will emphasize safety planning, trauma-informed care, and best practices for managing medical trauma, while focusing on the unique triggers that may arise during labor and delivery. Special attention will be given to the health disparities faced by Black, Latino, and Native birthing people, highlighting the impacts of weathering and social determinants of health.
By the end of the presentation, participants will be equipped with practical strategies for creating safer environments and supporting survivors through tailored care and advocacy. This session aims to improve health outcomes and empower professionals to better address the intersection of domestic violence and perinatal health.
Michelle Valiukenas - Presenter
Founder - The Colette Louise Tisdahl Foundation
Michelle Valiukenas, a dedicated mom and advocate, founded The Colette Louise Tisdahl Foundation with her husband after the loss of their daughter, Colette. A writer and speaker, she addresses so-called taboo topics like infertility, pregnancy and infant loss, health equity, and maternal health. Through the foundation, Michelle provides financial aid, education, and advocacy for families navigating high-risk pregnancies, NICU stays, and loss. Previously, she worked as an attorney at Lifespan Center for Legal Services, representing victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, and as a program supervisor at Metropolitan Family Services. Michelle’s mission is to create a world where every choice, person, and family is safe, supported and empowered.
Laura Valiukenas - Presenter
Clinical Supervisor - Clarity Clinic
Laura began her career as a legal advocate with Rape Victim Advocates (Resilience). While working there she also attended UIC Jane Addams College of Social Work, obtaining her Master of Social Work. Laura then began working at Life Span as a court advocate. Later, Laura was able to become a counselor and then Director of Counseling at Life Span. While there she grew outreach and teen services. Laura has a passion for trauma and perinatal after seeing in her personal life how prevalent but not talked about these issues are. Laura has recently transitioned into private practice with Clarity Clinic where she is focusing on perinatal and trauma work.
