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The Group Guide
Connecting people to community
Client and Family Education
What to know about

Domestic Violence Survivor Groups

These groups bring together people who have experienced intimate partner violence or domestic abuse: physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, or financial, by a current or former partner or family member. They come in two forms. Peer support groups offer validation and shared experience, usually within advocacy programs and shelters. Clinician-led therapy groups treat the trauma, depression, and PTSD that often follow. These groups carry unique safety considerations: location confidentiality, careful group composition, and digital safety online.

Who it's for, and who it's not

A fit for those wanting connection with others who understand the dynamics of abuse.
Safety planning should come before or alongside group if you're still in contact with a partner.
Severe PTSD or acute crisis may need individual stabilization first.

What it's for

Anyone who has experienced IPV, whether still in the relationship, recently out, or years past.
Some groups welcome any stage; others focus on the immediate aftermath of leaving.
Some serve specific populations: women, LGBTQ+ survivors, or cultural communities.
What to expect
1Sessions run 60 to 90 minutes, facilitated discussion with clear ground rules.
2Location is kept confidential. Many programs don't publicize their address.
3Safety planning is built into the programming across both formats.

Support for IPV survivors has a substantial evidence base.

A meta-analysis of 53 randomized trials found psychosocial interventions reduced anxiety, depression, and PTSD, with CBT-based approaches strongest.1
A global review confirmed IPV brings elevated depression, PTSD, and suicidality, establishing the need these groups meet.2
Making the most of it
Leaving is a process. A good group won't judge you for returning or for taking your time.
Mind digital safety. If a partner monitors your devices, ask the program how to take part safely.
The isolation lifts here. Abuse thrives on cutting you off. Connection is itself protective.
Questions to ask before you join
1How does this group protect location and member confidentiality?
2For online groups, what digital safety guidance does it offer?
3Is it peer support, or a clinician-led therapy group, or both?

Ready to find a group?

Browse 2,000+ therapy and support groups in all 50 states.

Free to browse  ·  No account needed  ·  thegroupguide.com

In crisis? Call or text 988 (US Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, 24/7).

The Group Guide is a directory, not a clinic. This handout is general education, not medical or mental health advice. Listings are written by group leaders and are not endorsements. Confirm details, cost, and fit with any group you contact. Sources on page 2.

The Group Guide
Connecting people to community
Client and Family Education

Sources

Domestic Violence Survivor Groups · references keyed to the numbers on page 1.

1Micklitz, H. M., Glass, C. M., Bengel, J., & Sander, L. B. Efficacy of psychosocial interventions for survivors of intimate partner violence: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Trauma, Violence, and Abuse (2024), 25(2), 1000–1017.

2White, S. J., Sin, J., Sweeney, A., et al. Global prevalence and mental health outcomes of intimate partner violence among women: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Trauma, Violence, and Abuse (2024), 25(1), 494–511.

In crisis? Call or text 988 (US Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, 24/7).

The Group Guide is a directory, not a clinic. This handout is general education, not medical or mental health advice. Listings are written by group leaders and are not endorsements. Confirm details, cost, and fit with any group you contact.