Chrys Ballerano
Chrys Ballerano co-directs the Building Connections Project at NYSCASA where she provides technical assistance, resources and training to Rape Crisis Programs, mental health workers and members statewide, particularly regarding issues of sexual trauma and violence prevention. She leads workshops on the therapeutic use of rhythm circles to build healthy communities and lessen traumatic stress; the importance of using a trauma-informed approach to support survivors; and the imperative of addressing vicarious trauma and self-care in the workplace. Formerly an advocate, educator, and coordinator with Columbia-Greene Rape Crisis Program, Chrys is also a musician and songwriter who has provided the keynote at several upstate NY 
Take Back the Night public events.
Chrys performs professionally as a singer/songwriter and musician as part of various ensembles as well as solo. She is an avid gardener, snowboarder, social justice activist, writer, and mother of 22 year old Jessalyn. She resides in Albany with her life partner, Fletch and kitty Alanna.
Chrys leads workshops:
- on the therapeutic use of rhythm circles to build healthy communities and lessen traumatic stress:
Rhythms for Building Community and Wellness: Experiencing the Healing Power of the Drum - the importance of using a trauma-informed approach to support survivors
- the imperative of addressing vicarious trauma and self-care in the workplace.
She is also available for keynote presentations, both in prose and song.