Finding Strength Together: Why Group Therapy Can Heal

For survivors of sexual assault, finding a path to healing can feel like walking an impossible road. Beyond the pain of trauma, many face another silent burden: the judgment of society. Not being believed, stigma, and shame can isolate survivors, leaving them feeling unheard, unseen, and unsupported. At Firefly Therapy, we believe that no one should have to carry this weight alone. Group therapy offers a place where survivors can reclaim their voices, build trust, and begin to heal—together.

The Weight of Stigma

Despite growing awareness around sexual assault, society still often struggles to respond with compassion and understanding. Survivors may encounter victim-blaming, skepticism, or pressure to “move on.” These responses can make it difficult to seek help or speak openly about their experiences. Many survivors feel silenced, fearful of being judged, dismissed, or misunderstood.

This isolation can be incredibly harmful. Trauma thrives in silence, feeding on feelings of shame and unworthiness. It’s in these moments that connection becomes more important than ever. While society may not always provide the understanding survivors need, group therapy offers an environment where judgment is left at the door, and acceptance is the foundation.

Why Group Therapy?

The thought of opening up to a group can feel intimidating—perhaps even impossible—at first. Survivors may wonder: “How can I share my story with strangers? What if no one understands?” These fears are completely valid, but the reality of group therapy often exceeds expectations.

Group therapy is not about reliving trauma; it’s about moving forward. It provides survivors with the chance to connect with others who have experienced similar struggles. There’s a profound comfort in being surrounded by people who get it—people who truly understand the complexity of healing from sexual assault. This shared understanding can ease feelings of isolation and remind survivors that they are not alone.

Group therapy also provides an opportunity to witness healing in others. As survivors share their experiences, struggles, and victories, the group becomes a source of inspiration and hope. Seeing someone take a small step forward—no matter how small—reminds everyone in the room that healing is possible.

The Power of Shared Courage

Healing from trauma is not a linear process. There will be good days and hard days, moments of clarity and moments of struggle. Group therapy offers a consistent, supportive space to navigate these ups and downs. It is a place where showing up—even when it feels hard—is celebrated.

In a group setting, every person contributes to the healing process. Sharing a story, listening to someone else’s pain, or simply offering a nod of understanding can create powerful bonds of trust and empathy. The group becomes more than a space to talk; it becomes a community of courage, validation, and hope.

You Are Not Alone

Choosing to join a group is an act of bravery. It’s a commitment to yourself, your healing, and your future. At Firefly Therapy, we honor that courage by providing a safe, judgment-free space where survivors can take the first—or the next—step toward healing. To join one of our groups and have the belief and support of not only the therapist, but also a room of other women is so deeply validating, and often a missing piece from a survivor's story.

You are not alone. Your voice matters. Your story is valid. And healing is possible. Together, we move forward.