The Victims' Groups focus on the victim rather than the perpetrator, and the power to change the course of one's life. The goal of the program is for victims to begin to understand the problem of abuse and its realities for the entire family, to become aware of their life patterns, to set realistic goals, and to learn techniques for developing new patterns of their own choosing.

The group format is designed so that the victim views the therapist as an advocate. This dynamic enables the victims to be honest and disclosing, knowing that their confidence will not be broken. The safety of the victim is always of primary concern.

Victim Group Components
List of shelters and programs in Arizona	Course of action choices or safety plan
How to file an Order of Protection	Definition of domestic violence
Laws pertaining to domestic violence	Explanation of the cycle of violence
Victim assistant numbers in neighborhoods and communities	Copy of the power and control wheel
Victim Empowerment	Community information and referral

Victims' Groups are offered in both English and Spanish at a central Phoenix and Mesa location. A victim may bring children over the age of eight as the information provided is applicable to this age group.

This program is offered as a community service to all victims of domestic violence. A victim does not have to pre-register for class. She only needs to attend. Steps are taken to insure anonymity. Referrals to other community resources are assessed and made at the group sessions. Information on class location and time is available by calling any of the numbers listed below.

THERE IS NO FEE FOR ATTENDANCE AT THESE GROUPS