Robert

I was charged with assault on my girlfriend. I was 42 at the time. I’m college educated and hold a good white collar job. To make matters worse, I didn’t trust myself to have children. I was afraid they’d turn out like me. It took a court order from the county, but I attended CHSFS 16-week domestic abuse group.  I didn’t really think I’d get anything out of it, but I had to go.

As the group went on, other participants surprised me when they talked about how much they had learned about regulating their emotions, but I was still skeptical. Over the course of the next several weeks, I learned more about regulating my own emotions than ever before in my life. I also began to understand what healthy relationships were about, how my old behavior damaged relationships and gave me insight to begin to improve and put the pieces back together.

I have to tell you, it was the best spent 16 weeks in my life. I only wish I could have done this sooner. The domestic abuse program challenged me and gave me insight that changed my life forever. I am excited to tell you that I’ve made incredible changes, changes that allowed me to plan a family. I have a healthy relationship with my girlfriend and together we have a beautiful son. I’m confident of my capabilities to be a non-violent partner and parent. I’m actively involved with my family and loving life!

– Robert, a CHSFS Domestic Abuse client
(name changed to protect client’s identity)