Group Counseling

Isolation injures the spirit while connection can transform despair into hope.

We believe in the power of communities to heal.

Group therapy offers community,  creating something unique and complementary to individual therapy.  In group, stories and voices are shared, validated and appreciated. 

With the support of the group,  members confront the ways histories of abuse and neglect intrude on their present relationships.   Group therapy provides an opportunity to be understood by others and to know that our caring, courage and compassion can make a difference in someone else’s life.  It is, in a sense, a training ground for healthy and intimate relationships.

These groups are intended for individuals who are already in individual therapy. 

For inquiry about a specific group, to see if a group is the right fit for you, or to schedule an in-person intake appointment, please contact the group leader directly.

Groups urrently being offered:

Group for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse: Time-limited group with repeating 10-week sessions

Too often men who are abused feel disconnected from themselves and the people around them. Gender expectations can interfere with men seeking help and receiving the support they deserve.  This structured group is intended for male survivors at all stages of the healing journey.  It will provide education about sexual and physical abuse and how current behaviors often are linked to past abuse.

Led by Judith Ierulli, LCSW
847-475-7003 x 27
Thursdays, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Due to COVID-19, we regret to announce that we are not currently running our full list of groups. We recognize there is a longing to be in more connection, and the valuable resource that groups can provide to support healing.  At the same time, trauma therapy groups hold nuances that are harder to tend to and adequately address virtually.  We have not decided this lightly and will continue to evaluate our decision in the coming months.

The following groups will be offered at Womencare once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted and it is safe to gather in a group:

 

Stronger Together: A Teen Support Group

Stronger Together is a therapy group offering open conversation, creative expression and authentic connection.  It provides an opportunity for young women and transgender/gender diverse teens aged 14-19 to address both ordinary and traumatic life challenges within a safe, supportive environment.  This group will empower young women and transgender/gender queer teens to find and honor their true selves, and develop and sustain healthy relationships with individuals and communities.  Learn more.

Led by Beth Holzhauer, LCSW,  
847-475-7003 x 24
Tuesdays, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm

 

Group for Women Survivors of Sexual Abuse and Childhood Trauma

Traumatic experiences can impair a person’s sense of self, relationships and belief in a hopeful and promising future.  Working through trauma and building new skills can provide deep healing and break the cycle of abuse.  Our groups for women survivors offer opportunities for healing and support women’s ability to transform their experience from trauma into hope.  Trauma isolates; group

Led by Laurie Kahn, LCSW
847-475-7003 x 22
Wednesdays, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

 

Transforming Darkness to Light: A 16 week Group for Women Survivors of Trauma

This 16 week, goal-focused, trauma recovery group is for women who have experienced trauma and continue to grapple with ways it affects their lives.  Participants will have the chance to alter the patterns that limit who they are and how they live. 

In order for the group to be of greatest benefit, participants must be in therapy and be able to talk about the impact of their trauma.  Participants must also be able to apply healthy coping strategies when distressed and support other women in their process.  Learn more.

Led by Monica Robinson, LCSW
847-475-7003 x 28
Thursdays, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm

 

Partners in Healing Support Group

This 6-session support group offers partners of trauma survivors a chance to connect with others and explore the impact of trauma on abuse survivors and their intimate relationships.  Group time will be spent sharing, teaching and strategizing ways to create and maintain relationships in which both partners can thrive.  Prior participation in a Partners in Healing Workshop required.  To register for this 6-session support group click here.

Led by Sara Powers, LCSW
847-475-7003 x 38
Saturdays, 9:00 am – 11:00 am

 


Questions

Except for Group for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse, we are not currently accepting clients for group therapy. Any additional questions, please email our program coordinator, Jessica Switzer, at jswitzer@womencarecounseling.com.

We look forward to having the opportunity to work with you.