Helix Human Services to Present ‘Rise Up: A Journey to Trauma Recovery’ Symposium

SPRINGFIELD — Helix Human Services, previously known as the Children’s Study Home, will unveil its inaugural symposium, “Rise Up: A Journey to Trauma Recovery,” on Monday, Sept. 30 at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. Click here for tickets and event details.

This first-time, landmark event will feature a lineup of distinguished keynote speakers, including Lisa Zarcone, a renowned author, public speaker, and advocate for child and mental health; Horacio Sanchez, president and CEO of Resiliency Inc.; and Jennifer Wolf-Hagstrom, founder of Kindness Corner Therapy. Attendees will benefit from various breakout sessions led by experts in the field, with continuing education units available for participants.

Helix decided to hold this symposium because there have been too few training and professional-development events since the COVID pandemic. Helix Human Services recognized that the connection, camaraderie, and essential collegiality among professionals in the field has been something professionals and those they serve have been longing for again.

“We are thrilled to host this pivotal conference in Western Massachusetts. Our goal is to equip attendees with practical, evidence-based strategies to create supportive environments for at-risk children and families.” said Mark Paglia, CEO of Helix Human Services.

“We have been hearing from so many of our colleagues that there truly has been a desire for exactly this kind of a gathering,” he added. “We’ve worked hard to create this first event and are overwhelmed and grateful for the response we received from the renowned presenters who will empower the attendees. It’s been a long haul for care providers, and we believe this will reenergize many of us.”

Throughout the day, there will be a range of critical topics covered, such as sensory integration/trauma-informed care, ABA therapy, neurodivergent youth, LGBTQIA+ issues, developmental trauma, poverty, and compassion fatigue.

“Rise Up: A Journey to Trauma Recovery” is designed to enhance understanding and implementation of trauma-informed care. Research consistently shows that exposure to trauma — such as abuse, neglect, discrimination, and violence — can lead to long-term health issues and risky behaviors. By promoting trauma-informed approaches, Helix aims to improve engagement, treatment adherence, health outcomes, and caregiver wellness.

“Trauma-informed communities recognize that respect, kindness, and empowerment are crucial for resilience and recovery,” said Yamilca Nogue, chief relations officer at Helix Human Services. “This conference not only aims to educate and inspire, but also to foster networking, sharing, and self-care among professionals.”