Support Groups
A Safe Place To Talk
Tri-County S.P.E.A.K.S. Sexual Assault Center offers two support groups, all of which are free and confidential. Support groups are a great way to connect with other survivors and those affected by sexual assault. In our support groups, you can share experiences, engage in discussions, and receive support in a safe, facilitated setting. All of our groups are mixed-gender, and support group attendees are welcome to share as much or as little as they want. All support groups are free and confidential. To learn more about a support group, please call our hotline at 843-745-0144.
Art Therapy Session
In-Person
Group Art Therapy
Current Group Art Therapy dates have passed. Please stay tuned for location and future dates to be announced soon.
Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses the creative process to improve the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of individuals of all ages. In art therapy sessions, participants are encouraged to freely express themselves through art materials, colors, and imagery, without the pressure of creating “good” art. The focus is on the process rather than the final product and does not require talent or technical abilities. Through this process alongside master’s-level clinicians, participants can gain insight into their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, build coping skills, develop a sense of community, increase self-awareness and self-compassion, and cultivate empowerment.
You can learn more about art therapy from our website or from the American Art Therapy Association.
Self Care Tips for Secondary Survivors
Seek help from a professional. They can help you understand your feelings and come up with solutions moving forward. Many secondary survivors benefits from therapy.
Encourage the primary survivor to seek professional help. To promote healing, help the primary survivor establish healthy coping mechanisms that they can use with or without you.
Clearly communicate your needs and wishes to the primary survivor. Focus on their healing as well as your healing. Listen without judging, and accept each other’s feelings.
Recognize that what you are feeling is normal. You have been through a trauma, even though you were not directly involved. Your feelings are valid!
The traumatic effects of sexual assault can last a lifetime for both the primary and the secondary survivor. Don’t expect to snap out of it; give yourself the time you need to heal!