Star Journal Staff

Tri-County Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault is hosting two new domestic violence support groups in Rhinelander. The primary focus for domestic violence support groups is to provide information, education and support to increase knowledge and coping skills for victims and survivors.

“Within YOUR Power” is an eight-week, structured, topic-based group beginning Tuesday, Jan. 7. The group will be meet 5-7 p.m. Tuesdays through Feb. 25. It will be followed by another eight-week session on March 3, and so on.

An open topic support group will be offered Fridays, beginning Jan. 17. The group will meet 9:30-11 a.m. There is no end date for the open support group.

These groups focus on building empowerment and connection to aid in the journey of healing with facilitator-led, peer-to-peer support. Group discussion topics will include recognizing domestic violence and its warning signs, safety planning; effects of abuse on children and parenting, raising self-esteem, healthy emotional boundaries and others.

The meetings are confidential and offer a safe and supportive environment to talk with other victims and survivors. Pre-registration is required for both support groups and can be done in person or by calling Angie at Tri-County Council on DV/SA at 715-362-6841.The meeting location for the support groups will be disclosed only after preregistration to ensure safety and confidentiality of its group members.

Tri-County Council on DV/SA offers a free 24/7 confidential hotline (800-236-1222) available to anyone experiencing issues with domestic violence and are seeking supportive services such as safety planning, advocacy and resources.