
Overcoming Past Abuse Process Group



This is a group for gay men who are experiencing memories of past abuse that may show up as anger, humiliation, sadness, and isolation.
We want to talk about our pain and hurt with loved ones but they have a hard time understanding. Memories and flashbacks of past hurts interrupt our daily moments. We try to work through the pain and begin to create a part of ourselves that is distant, angry, defensive, sad, or anxious. We become so accustomed to retreating to hidden parts of ourselves that our true self becomes buried and hidden in plain sight. The memories and flashbacks of pain, abuse, and harm become secrets that cause shame and guilt.
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The shame and guilt can express itself in harmful behaviors such as:
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substance use
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thoughts of "I wish I wasn't here," "I don't want to be here anymore..."
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suicide attempts
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risky behaviors (ex:risky sexual behaviors, toxic relationships)
We are also tired of being in relationships where it is obvious that we are being taken advantage of for financial, physical, sexual, or material reasons. We also want to create new relationships based on laughter, fun, common interests, and pleasurable conversation. Yet at times we find it challenging to find authentic relationships.
Its time to give permission to our REAL self to take a courageous journey. Where we can begin to peal back the layers of hurt and hear the voice of our genuine self. This journey will involve freeing ourselves from the enslavement to the memories and the secrets. The journey will begin by us being with other heart filled men who will encourage and support growth, love, and freedom.
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In the Overcoming Past Abuse Process Group we will address:
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Self Connection
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Self Affirmations
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Share your unique story
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Use grounding skills to connect with the body
Spring Cleaning
Address the secrets by:
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Sharing about shame
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Forgiving self & others
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Accepting the body
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Creating healthy expectations
Lifestyle
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Creating space at home.
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Creating space at work for rest and safety
Onward Journey
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Make new affirming commitments to self.
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Journal or write reminders of self growth.
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Invite relationships into new daily routines.