“Something that CHAT did for me was help me realize that I wasn’t just a victim, right, that I also had a part in everything that was happening in my relationship, which is also very hard to do because I definitely went in with a 100 percent victim mentality, and that wasn’t 100 percent accurate.”
“They were not judgmental at all and saw the strength in me that sometimes I have a hard time seeing.”
“I’m a firm believer that sometimes the healing that we as adults [experience] ripples down to our kids and ripples down to the younger generations in our family. In some ways everybody knowing there’s a child that needs some time to grow up — will need some space in the future to tell everyone what they need — how they can be supported.”
“CHAT helped me have conversations with my family by helping me understand the perspectives of different people. They even gave me graphs and handouts to use to talk to my family. They also helped me feel more capable and mentally and emotionally ready.”
“First, and foremost CHAT provided non-judgemental, empathetic support. I felt my story was heard, a plan was formulated, and my goal was achieved with CHAT’s assistance.”
“You all were very empathetic, taking the time we needed to work through many complex layers of needs and challenges, and helping me to feel I have strong support for my goals.”
“The most helpful thing they offered was…Kindness, understanding, and support with perspective taking and looking for solutions when you feel completely stuck. Also, willingness to provide resources to people who are willing to change their abusive behaviors. Willingness to focus on the restorative justice aspect rather than on punishment.”
– A participant on working with The CHAT Project facilitators
