What to Expect in a Group

Led by trained domestic violence advocates who understand the unique challenges survivors face, each group runs for 10 weeks at a time, and you’re welcome to join consecutive groups as you like. Group sessions include education on power and control, discussions about trauma recovery and healing practices, and time to share, connect and ask questions.

Our support groups are safe spaces where people who have experienced domestic violence can:

• Be seen, heard and validated.
• Be with others who “get it”.
• Normalize their feelings.
• Recognize patterns of abuse.
• Rebuild self-esteem.
• Create physical and emotional safety plans.
• Build a support network.
• Create pathways to healthy futures.

Who Can Join a Group?

Our support group services are specifically designed to support women, female-identified individuals, and non-binary people. We do not currently offer groups for men.

These groups often include people at various stages of exiting abusive relationships, including people who are:

• Questioning whether their experiences qualify as abuse

• Considering leaving

• Actively in the process of leaving

• Newly separated

• Still feel the lingering effects of abuse, no matter how long it’s been.

This diverse group dynamic fosters hope, mutual understanding, and a powerfully supportive environment for healing.

Do I Have to Apply for a Group?

Yes. Group work is not the right fit for every one or every situation. Sometimes people need more specialized individual care, or crisis intervention. Before being admitted to a group you will be asked to schedule a 15 minute visit with one of our advocates to see if this is the right fit for you or to help you find other resources.

Are there Guidelines for Being in a Group?

Yes! Before joining a group you will be asked to sign our group guidelines. Please read them here:

1) Confidentiality.

To facilitate safety, there must be a commitment to confidentiality. I promise to keep what’s talked about here, in the group. I will not share the names, details, contact information or other peoples stories with anyone. If danger to myself or others is expressed, my group facilitator will share this with their supervisor.

2) Non-graphic sharing.

Specific details of violence and abuse, especially sexual abuse, can be very triggering to other members. I understand that I should share only what’s necessary for how the trauma impacts my life. If I need to process more detailed information I will reach out to a therapist, mental health professional or close friend. I understand that if the discussion becomes too graphic, the facilitator may redirect the conversation.

3) Making space for everyone.

I understand that everyone should get a chance to share. I understand that not everyone has the same economic, generational, or faith background as I do. I will be respectful of others’ experiences.

4) Empathy and listening, not advice.

I realize that it is not fair to give advice when I am not the one who will bear the consequences for those choices. When necessary, I will use phrasing like, “In my experience…” or; “What helped me was…” If I have something to share, I will first ask myself what my motivation is for sharing.