Assessment vs. Conversation: The Importance of Active Listening Skills for Responding to Suicide
Sherrard Crespo is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who obtained her Masters Degree in Social Work from Louisiana State University in 2017. Her professional background is highlighted by her work with suicide education, prevention, intervention, and
postvention. Sherrard is currently employed with VIA LINK in the position of Director of Outreach and Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana (PCAL) where her current duties include: clinical oversight of VIA LINK's 24/7 contact center, community outreach, and education on
VIA LINK services as well as specialized skills and information on suicide response, crisis intervention, grief, and trauma. She also facilitates VIA LINK's two support groups: Survivors of Suicide Loss and “Real Talk,” a support group for teens with suicide ideation. She is also the Director for Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana (PCAL), the Louisiana state affiliate for Prevent Child Abuse America, which is operated by VIA LINK; her current focus includes education and advocacy for the community and professionals to support Louisiana families and prevent child abuse.