Free Peer Support Services— Healing After Abuse
AWARE provides free, confidential counseling to anyone in Mercer County impacted by domestic violence or sexual assault. Whether you’re newly out of a crisis or healing from past trauma, our trained counselor advocates offer one-on-one and group support, helping you process your experience and rebuild with strength.
Trauma-Informed Support by Professionals Who Understand
Our counselor advocates are professionals with expertise in trauma, domestic violence and sexual assault. Sessions are survivor-centered, compassionate, and never judgmental—focused on your pace, your comfort, and your healing goals.
Individual Counseling—Your Healing, Your Way
Meet privately with a counselor advocate—either in-person or remotely—to process trauma, learn coping strategies, rebuild confidence, and set future goals. Sessions are tailored to your needs and scheduled flexibly for your convenience.
Support Groups—Healing Together in Community
Join a group of fellow survivors for mutual support, encouragement, and understanding. Groups meet weekly (virtually or in-person), helping you feel less alone and sharing tools for recovery. Specialized groups may be available for parents, sexual assault survivors, or empowerment topics.
Support for Friends and Family
AWARE also offers guidance for those supporting a survivor. Friends and family can access sessions to learn how to help, manage their own feelings, and better support their loved one’s recovery.
Accessible, Free, and Always Confidential
All services are provided at no cost—no insurance, no bills, no barriers. Supportive services are short-term, focused on stabilization and recovery; if longer-term therapy is needed, we help connect you to trusted providers. Your privacy is always respected, and you decide what to share and when.
Frequently Asked Questions About Supportive Services
Can I get free counseling as a survivor in PA?
Yes. AWARE offers free advocacy and support groups to all survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in Mercer County—no insurance or payment required.
Who provides supportive services, and are they trauma specialists?
All supportive services are delivered by professionals with specialized training in trauma and abuse recovery.
Are supportive services only for recent survivors or those in shelter?
No. Anyone in the community—regardless of when the abuse happened or if you used shelter—can access our supportive services.
What if I’m nervous about accessing services or not ready to share everything?
That’s completely normal. You set the pace, and our counselor advocates focus on making you feel safe and respected. No one will pressure you to talk about anything before you’re ready.
Are there support groups for survivors?
Yes. We offer group sessions for survivors, with options for different topics and experiences. Ask about our current group offerings when you call.