Programs

Journey to freedom.

Journey to Freedom is a voluntary 27-week program designed to challenge negative thought processes that permit any type of violence towards intimate partners. Participants will challenge themselves and others to break free of old patterns and habits and to exercise control over their thinking in a way that shows honor, respect, and trust to their partner, family, and society.

Discussion topics are taken from the curriculum “Creating a Process of Change for Men Who Batter” which is designed and sold by DAIP (Domestic Abuse Intervention Programs), home of “The Duluth Model”.

All classes will be facilitated by 1 trained male and 1 trained female in order to provide an example of a healthy partnership.

The goal is to hold participants  accountable, and encourage them to rise above their former life patterns and start living with a fresh, healthier perspective.

Classes are held at CitiLookout, a nonprofit counseling organization, on Monday nights from 6:00-7:30 PM.  Journey to Freedom is an open enrollment program so individuals may begin their 27-weeks at any time throughout the program.

An individualized orientation session/interview will be scheduled with the facilitators and is required before participation in any of the classes.

Everyday coping skills.

Deep Breathing Relaxation Technique
Grounding Technique

Deep breathing is a popular relaxation technique that can help cope with symptoms of stress, anxiety, and anger. Deep breathing is performed by taking slow, deep breaths. This triggers the body’s relaxation response which helps combat the body’s stress response when experiencing anxiety or other intense emotions. This skill is simple to practice and can be used anytime in multiple types of situations to help relax and release tension. It is suggested to use this skill regularly, even at times of low stress, in order to better manage emotions.

Technique

  1. Sit back or lie down in a comfortable position.
  2. Close your eyes if preferred
    1. Inhale – Breathe in slowly (4 seconds)
    2. Pause – Hold the air in your lungs (4 seconds)
    3. Exhale – Breathe out slowly through your mouth(6 seconds)
    4. Repeat – Practice for at least 2 minutes, preferably 5 to 10 minutes
Download Worksheet

For questions or additional information, please contact Kylee at [email protected] or by calling (937) 322-6532.

Grounding is a technique that can be helpful for coping with anxiety, intense emotions or uncomfortable symptoms after a trauma such as flashbacks or dissociation. Grounding techniques turn attention away from thoughts, memories or worries and refocus on the present moment. By turning attention away from the negative emotion or memory and onto the current surroundings, grounding helps bring calm to what can feel like inner chaos.

For questions or additional information, please contact Kylee at [email protected] or by calling (937) 322-6532.

Support groups.

Trauma Recovery Support Group For Women

Support Groups provide a safe place to connect with other survivors who share similar experiences. Trained, empathetic advocates facilitate the group in a safe and supportive setting. The group is designed for women recovering from sexual trauma, trauma, and domestic violence. Groups are held every Monday afternoon from 4:00 pm to 5:30 p.m. unless the Monday falls on a holiday. Please keep up to date by viewing our citilookout.org calendar.

Trauma Survivors & Family Peer Support Group

The traumatic experience impacts not only the emotional functioning of the individual but the psychosocial health of the survivor and their family. Trauma survivors – the victim and the families – may face social isolation, financial upheaval, and continuing feelings of anger, depression, or guilt. A survivor’s sense of self is challenged, and social support systems can be exhausted before recovery is complete. It is helpful to talk with others facing similar challenges. This peer support group setting offers a safe space to share the unique highs and lows of recovery while receiving encouragement from the group. Groups are held bi-weekly on Fridays from 11:00am to 12:00pm. Please keep up to date by viewing our citilookout.org calendar.

What Are The Benefits Of Joining A Peer Support Group?

  • Gaining support and hope from others facing similar experiences
  • Feeling less anxious, afraid or alone
  • Sharing experiences and helping others
  • Learning new skills for coping and enhancing your life
  • Becoming more self-confident
  • Feeling more in control
  • Developing new friendships