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On February 21st, 2025, the Global Center in Human Trafficking hosted its third annual Legislative Breakfast, bringing together key influential stakeholders in the anti-trafficking field. The gathering focused on exploring solutions for some of the most pressing issues regarding human trafficking.

This year’s successful event brought together 144 legislators, survivors, service providers, and field experts to discuss the mental health response to Human Trafficking in law, policy, and practice. Survivors face critical challenges upon exiting their trafficking situations, particularly the shortage of both short-term and long-term mental health services. There is also a lack of understanding of the vital role mental health care plays in their healing journey.

“We must continue to unite as a community to discuss policies and best practices that provide comprehensive support for survivors, particularly in the area of mental health services. The Legislative Breakfast provided an essential platform for advancing these critical conversations,” said Ashlee Martellacci, Student Affairs and Community Engagement Coordinator for the Global Center on Human Trafficking.

The need for trauma-informed mental healthcare, not only immediately after trafficking, but throughout the often years-long recovery process, was emphasized by many in attendance. Survivors’ access to mental health services is fundamental to their healing and reintegration.

Opening remarks by Dr. Johnathan Koppell, President of �ǿ����޴�ý University, and Dr. Daniela Peterka-Benton, Director of the Global Center on Human Trafficking, stressed the importance of adequate funding and provision of mental health services for trafficking survivors. The keynote speaker, Dr. Amanda Stylianou, CEO of HEAL Trafficking, furthered this message.

As part of the event, the Global Center on Human Trafficking honors one legislator, survivor and service provider every year for their work in the anti-trafficking field with the Wellstone/Smith Award. New Jersey Senator Linda Greenstein was honored for her legislative accomplishments.

“Legislation plays a critical role in addressing the root causes and long-term impacts of human trafficking,” said Martellacci.

Ashante Taylorcox, founder and executive director of You Are More Than, was the recipient of the survivor award and executive director Nur Kalyoncu accepted the award on behalf of Family Service League in the service provider category.

The critical need for long-term mental health care for survivors was further cemented in the event’s panel discussion. The panel featured a diverse group of experts including Victoria McCombs (Covenant House), Stephanie Koeller (Family Service League), Dr. Laura Quiros (�ǿ����޴�ý University) Ashante Taylorcox (You Are More Than), Jasmine Ostrow, J.D. (Atlantic Co. Prosecutor’s Office), and Dr. Jason Williams (Moderator, �ǿ����޴�ý University).

“It was so interesting to hear from such diverse speakers today and I learned a lot. As a student who aspires to work in the healthcare field, it is crucial to be informed about the mental health care needs of survivors,” said Emily, a �ǿ����޴�ý student.