Training and Consultation

I provide education around some of the topics I am most passionate about: trauma-informed care, relationships, substance use disorder, boundaries, and sex trafficking.  My goal as a speaker and community educator is to bridge the gap between what we know (science, facts, history) and how we feel (connected, empathetic, curious). I believe sharing a simplified message of what we are still learning about trauma and people is the key to caring for one another, no matter the environment. I am thankful to have been a part of conversations that start with looking for better understanding and pave the way for meaningful relationships.

It was during an internship in 2001 that I first tip-toed into public speaking. At the urging of my first mentor, I spoke to a group of sweaty teens fresh from a kickball game, gracious enough to pause a fun youth outing to listen to me share. I don't recall the topic, but I do remember the feeling: connection. Since then, I have had the opportunity to lean into my passion for educating as a form of connection and, thankfully, grown a bit more confidence along the way!


These days, my audiences rarely include teens on a break between kickball games but have grown into a community of people committed to curiosity over judgment and frustration. I have served as a Community Instructor at The Ohio State University College of Social Work and have partnered with state, local, and federal court programs, local hospitals, non-profits, first responders, and a host of others. 

I look forward to talking with you about tailoring training and consultation to your organization’s needs.

A few places I have presented:

  • Addiction Studies Institute, The Ohio State University

  • The International Human Trafficking and Social Justice Conference

  • Supreme Court of Ohio, Specialty Docket Conference

  • Two Days in May

  • Columbus Public Health STI Conference

  • Ohio Not For Sale Conference

  • Addiction Academy

  • OADSP Annual Summit

Frequently Requested Topics:

  • Trauma & Substance Use Disorder

  • Introduction to Trauma

  • Secondary Trauma, Self-care & Boundaries 

  • General Ethics

  • Relationships and Boundaries in the Trauma Informed Care Setting

Mandi’s trauma training through Porchlight is filled with great insights into how trauma impacts behaviour and interactions with others. Mandi is excellent at helping class participants identify trauma responses clients may have and how to best respond to those situations. This training has been invaluable for our mentors, volunteers and staff.

Mandi has been a great resource for our leadership team to guide us in processing issues we experience with our clients who have multiple complex trauma. She listens, asks pertinent questions, and guides our team to find trauma informed solutions for our clients while still meeting the needs of our business.
— Susan, Freedom a la Cart
Mandi Pierson is one of the most skilled clinicians and trainers I have ever known. Mandi’s clinical training topics are varied and she delivers each training with unparalleled knowledge, professionalism, and compassion. I have no doubt that you will leave any training session with Mandi feeling invigorated and empowered.
— Mandy McGlone, Mighty Crow Media