FOR VICTIMS AND SURVIVORS OF DOMESTIC
VIOLENCE, SEXUAL ASSAULT AND HOMELESSNESS

  Support Services

Turning Point offers free individual and group therapy to survivors of domestic violence and/or sexual assault ages 4 and up, and their non-offending significant others. The program offers a safe place for survivors to express their feelings, discuss concerns and explore options.

Individual Counseling

Sexual assault and domestic violence can affect a person's social, physical and emotional well-being. Each person is unique and copes with crisis in his/her own way. There are a variety of emotions that a survivor can experience including shock, self blame, anger, shame and fear. Many survivors also experience flashbacks, nightmares, numbness, and hyper-vigilance. Upon completion of counseling, many survivors report feeling more in control of their lives and having gained an understanding that the violence wasn't their fault.

Support Groups

It is common for survivors to feel alone in dealing with the impact of violence on their lives. Support groups offer an opportunity for survivors to share their experiences and identify common feelings which fosters a connectedness among group members. Support groups can also be a catalyst for change (individually and through activism). Survivors often report that they feel less isolated by the end of the group. Turning Point offers a variety of support group opportunities.

•  8-week Teen Empowerment Series:  This group meets twice a year and is for teen girls ages 13-17.  Topics include assertiveness, healthy coping, understanding and dealing with emotions, and learning about different types of abuse.
•  12-week Support Group for Adult Survivors of Sexual Assault:  This group meets 2-3 times a year and is intended to help female survivors gain further knowledge and understanding of the effects of sexual assault in their lives and to find support in a safe, confidential, and empowering environment.
•  12-week Women's Empowerment Series:  This is a structured group experience for domestic violence survivors with a focus on information and discussion about domestic violence, self-care, and healing.  This group is offered 2-3 times a year and meets in the evening.
•  10-week Domestic Violence/Information Series:  This group series is for female survivors and incorporates activities, art and a supportive atmosphere to aid in the healing process.  The group is available in the evening and meets 2-3 times a year.
•  12-week Trauma Group for Mothers and their Children:  Youth are separated by age groups, while mom attends a group just for the adults.  Topics include:  types of abuse, anger, coping, worries, safety and more. This group is offered twice a year and meets in the evening.  Childcare for babies and toddlers is provided and transportation is available as well.

These groups are closed to new survivors after the third session in order to allow the group to build safety and trust with each other.

One additional ongoing, open support group is available weekly for female survivors of intimate partner domestic violence. This group meets during the day and childcare is often available.

To meet with a domestic violence counselor or sexual assault therapist, or to join a support group, please call 586-463-4430.