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Support Groups

“If we can share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can't survive.” - Brené Brown

The Haven offers several opportunities for survivors to connect with others who have had similar experiences through a variety of different groups, sessions or workshops. More information about each group is listed below. Sign up using this link.

The Haven offers the following groups if we reach the minimum number of participants (generally, at least five students):

A list of support groups offered by The Haven

Survivor Support Group

Do you want to connect with other trauma survivors?

The Haven’s Survivor Support Group is a social and educational support group for students who have experienced trauma, whether physical, sexual, or emotional. The purpose of this trauma support group is to build social and emotional well-being, as well as a sense of safety and resiliency, through connection and support with other trauma survivors. This is a closed group, meaning the same participants are in the group together over a series of weeks. This group will be held on campus and facilitated by graduate professionals in the Master's in Counseling program from the School of Education under the supervision of the Senior Director of GBVRAS/The Haven.

Relationships Support Group

Have you ever thought to yourself, "is this healthy?"

This is a group where students can talk about how to build skills to have healthy intimate-partner relationships. In this group, students will discuss the difference between healthy and unhealthy partnerships, strategies to improve relationships, boundary setting, communication, and conflict resolution. This group is facilitated by graduate professionals in the Master's in Counseling program from the School of Education under the supervision of the Senior Director of GBVRAS/The Haven.

Outdoor Resiliency Support Group

Healing and connection through nature is a powerful tool.

This is a group where students can meet weekly to build their repertoire of resilience-supporting skills, build community, and be outdoors, all at once. In this group, students will focus on a different skill each week that can help build their self-care practice, leading to greater resiliency. Activities may include mindful walking, journaling, meditation, and community building activities. This group will be held on campus in outdoor spaces and facilitated by graduate professionals in the Master's in Counseling program from the School of Education under the supervision of the Senior Director of GBVRAS/The Haven.

Rising Above

Recovery from Childhood Abuse

This confidential support group is for students who have experienced physical, sexual, and/or emotional abuse as a child. In this group, members will learn about how to build safety, support, coping skills, and resiliency. This is a closed group, meaning the same participants are in the group together over a series of weeks. This group is facilitated by graduate professionals in the Master's in Counseling program from the School of Education under the supervision of the Senior Director of GBVRAS/The Haven.

Trauma-Informed Yoga and Movement

The mind-body connection can serve as a healing resource.

This group will explore yoga and movement through trauma-informed practices. Group members will gain insight into the mind body connection, learn skills for coping with distress and triggers, and practice breathing and meditation techniques through a safe and welcoming environment. This group welcomes anyone who has experienced past trauma. This group is sponsored by The Haven and facilitated by staff from William & Mary's Health and Wellness department who are registered yoga teachers.

Survivor Wilderness Retreat Weekend

Relaxation, mindfulness, nature, and compassion can bring healing and joy.

This trip will explore healing and resiliency in connection with nature through a 3-day, 2-night wilderness camping retreat. Designed for trauma survivors, this retreat will help participants build their resiliency, social support, and connection with nature. All food, transportation, and supplies will be provided free of charge in collaboration with Campus Recreation Tribe Adventure Programs.
You can sign up for as many groups/events you are interested using this link and our staff will reach out to you with more information. If you have any questions, please email [[thehaven]].