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As a doctoral student in clinical psychology, I am interested in working with victims of trauma and am interested in cross-cultural aspects of treatment. I have the amazing opportunity to go with a group of counseling and clinical psychologists to Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos in May of 2013 on a trip sponsored by Indiana State University and Destiny Rescue, to work with rescued children in the sex trafficking trade, learn the ins and outs of the sex trafficking market, and gain critical skills to work with South Asian populations.

Many Cambodian, Thai, and other girls across the globe sold into the sex trafficking system in their own country or across borders and into the United States, where they undergo torture and abuse and have their freedom and dignity stolen from them. Unfortunately, there is little awareness of this international issue to this day, with far too few advocates and trained psychologists involved in the fight against sex trafficking.

I am in graduate school and funds are tight, but considering the skills I will gain from this unique opportunity, I know I have to go! So I have forumalated a plot: Run the Carmel Half Marathon on April 20, 2013, and raise funds and awareness for this widespread international issue and the help meet the need for advocates and the support of trained professionals. 

Please help me in my endeavor to work with sex trafficking victims and become an informed advocate for victims in the United States and abroad. I am aiming to raise $4000 for travel expenses, which includes the cost of flights, hotels, food, and required books, manuals, and other supplies. All donations go directly to my paypal account; you are donating directly to me, rather than a third party, and no fees will be deducted from your donation! Any additional funds given will be donated to Destiny Rescue, a nonprofit organization that rescues children from sex slavery and provides socioeconomic support and education to low income families that are tempted to sell their children in order to survive (see above video).

Thank you for visiting and please spread the word!

If you have any questions you can contact me at ashleysokamoto@gmail.com.