I recently had a probing question posed to me about “Light 2024,” the highly successful educational conference on childhood trauma that the Center for Prevention of Abuse (CFPA) hosted in May this year. The question was, “Do you consider CFPA’s staff to be experts on childhood trauma?”
I answered quickly in the affirmative, with “Yes, of course!” but afterward I considered, “what really is an expert?” After all, we are always truthful and most certainly clear when we respond to any queries about the agency. “Yes, of course!” was my reply to that question, but did I say that too quickly?
There are many types of professionals that have exceptional knowledge and abilities. Some expertise relates less to action and more to observation and discernment. Then there are experts who have tremendous institutional knowledge, or institutional memory, the collective understanding and ability of an organization’s work, typically rich in advice that prepares people to adjust to situations.
After spending some time in research and contemplation, I decided that experts are not simply reservoirs of information; they have a deep understanding that gives us good reason to trust them and they:
- have extensive specialized education and experience
- have a track record of being right or helpful
- have high professional standing or credentials
- have marks of professional achievement
- can speak easily and confidently about their topic
All this said, I believe that “Yes, of course!” was the 100% correct and appropriate reply when asked about CFPA’s expertise. Proof is in our performance. CFPA’s team is extremely action oriented but we are also rich in specialized education, institutional knowledge, and observation. Established nearly 50 years ago, CFPA has grown into the only agency in the state of Illinois sanctioned to provide its collective array of services involving interpersonal violence. It is not easy to talk about abuse, assault, violence, and harassment. The conversations can feel uncomfortable because it never seems like the right time to discuss it. That is why CFPA is here. To help survivors find hope and peace. To train and educate to stop abuse before it starts. To build a safer community. To start the conversation.
At CFPA we are advocates for survivors of abuse. We are therapists, caseworkers, counselors, speakers, trainers, crisis managers, leaders, and community educators. We are here, even when it’s hard to talk. When you are ready, so are we. Experts, indeed.
