Support Groups

Join Our Support Groups

At MESA, we are dedicated to providing ongoing support for survivors of sexual violence. Our support groups offer a safe and confidential space where survivors can find community, healing, and empowerment. These groups are facilitated by experienced professionals who are trained to understand the unique challenges of recovering from sexual violence.

Support Group Offerings

We organize support groups throughout the year to meet the diverse needs of survivors. Each group provides a unique opportunity to connect with others who understand the trauma of sexual assault and are committed to working on themselves as they continue their healing journey. Whether you are seeking a place to feel heard, looking for empathy and understanding, or hoping to find strategies for coping and healing, our support groups are here for you.

Current Group Details:

  • Who: This group is for women who were assaulted as adults.
  • Duration: Once a week for 8 weeks, starting Monday, September 23rd through Monday, November 11th
  • Day: Mondays
  • Time: 3:00 – 5:00 PM (Please arrive by 2:50 PM for a smooth start)
  • Location: In person at the MESA Office, 1455 Dixon Avenue, Lafayette
  • Attendance: Attendance at all 8 sessions is expected to ensure continuity and build a supportive group environment.
  • To Express Interest: Please contact [email protected] to schedule a phone screening.

Who Can Join: Anyone is welcome to join a MESA support group; you do not need to be a resident of Boulder County. However, you must be able to attend in person at our office in Lafayette.

About the Group: This support group is facilitated by MESA’s Program Services Manager, Dr. Dana Rae Vaughn, who holds a Ph.D. in Interpersonal and Family Communication. Her support groups focus on the impact of sexual assault on communication and relationships. Over the eight weeks, participants will explore how these experiences shape communication with oneself, friends, family, and partners, and learn how to set and maintain healthy boundaries. Each session will concentrate on different aspects of communication, incorporating psychoeducation, guided discussions, independent reflection, and activities to support your healing journey.

How to Join Future Groups: If you are interested in joining one of our support groups, please email our advocacy team at [email protected] with your name, phone number, and the type of group you are seeking (e.g., women, teens, men, LGBTQ+). This helps us place you in a group that best suits your needs when we are organizing for these specific groups.

Next Steps: When a support group is scheduled, we will reach out to everyone on our interest list with the details, including the proposed days and times. You can then let us know if you are interested in that specific group, and we will set up a phone screening. The screening helps ensure that the group is a good fit for you and that you understand what participation entails. Given the high level of interest, it is important that those selected can fully commit to attending all sessions.

Questions? If you have any questions about our support groups or how to join, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you every step of the way.

Together, we can move towards healing.