Support Groups

Support groups to offer a space to discuss common impacts for victim/survivors of sexual assault and/or relationship violence. Groups meet weekly to support each other without judgment, facilitated by Aurora staff. The space serves as a welcoming and nurturing environment for each member to share and connect with each other through validation, support, and community. Discussion topics can range from coping skills, stages of healing, impact on relationships, trust, sexual intimacy, options & resources, and more. Support groups are open to UMN-TC and Augsburg University students, staff, or faculty members, regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation.

Commonly Offered Support Groups

Aurora offers support groups based on demand. Below are groups we have offered in the past, but not all are active each semester. Reach out to [email protected] to inquire about current offerings. 

Sexual Violence Survivors Support Group

The Sexual Violence Survivors Support Group is for individuals* who have experienced sexual violence (rape, sexual assault, sexual abuse, groping), and are looking for a supportive space for participant-led conversations that invite connection and healing. We focus on the impact that trauma and violence can have on our daily lives.

*All are welcome. This group will be most relevant to individuals who identify as women or who have been socialized into "womanhood," including cis women, trans women, and AFAB trans/non-binary/intersex folks.

Healing After Relationship Trauma Support Group

For individuals* who have experienced relationship/intimate partner/domestic violence. We focus on the impact of the violence on our daily lives by exploring how power and control was utilized to harm in a past relationship.
*All are welcome. This group will be most relevant to individuals who identify as women or who have been socialized into "womanhood," including cis women, trans women, and AFAB trans/non-binary/intersex folks

Survivors of Color Support Group

For women* who identify as people of color and have experienced sexual violence and/or relationship violence. We discuss intersectionality as it relates to trauma and healing, and provide support and validation as we navigate an oppressive system that can continue to retraumatize.
*All are welcome. This group will be most relevant to individuals who identify as women or who have been socialized into "womanhood," including cis women, trans women, and AFAB trans/non-binary/intersex folks.

Queer Survivors Support Group

For Queer individuals* who has experienced sexual violence and/or relationship violence and is looking to receive support in community. Fill out the Interest Form for the Queer Survivors group here.

*All are welcome. This group will be most relevant to individuals who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, or Two-Spirit (LGBTQIA2S+).

Men’s Dialogue Group 

For individuals* who are interested in discussing topics such as healthy masculinities, consent, personal experiences of violence, and more. 

*All are welcome. This group will be most relevant to individuals who identify as men, male, or masculine.
Group Descriptions

Off-Campus Support Groups:

If you are not a current student, staff, or faculty member with the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities or Augsburg University but are interested in joining a support group, please consider the following agencies that offer support groups:

Hennepin County

Tubman

Sexual Violence Center

Cornerstone

Ramsey County

SOS Sexual Violence Services

Saint Paul & Ramsey County Intervention

Washington County

Canvas Health

Dakota County

360 Communities

Anoka County

Alexandra House