Adult Survivors of Child Abuse (ASCA)

ASCA Support Groups

ASCA Support Groups offer peer-led meetings for adult survivors of childhood abuse. These support groups follow a structured 21-step recovery framework and provide a safe, confidential space for survivors to share their experiences and support each other in healing.

The groups are free and available both in-person and online, making them accessible regardless of location. ASCA emphasizes peer support, meaning meetings are facilitated by other survivors who understand the journey firsthand.

ASCA Manual and Resources

ASCA Manual and Resources provide structured materials for individual study or use alongside support groups. The manual outlines the 21-step recovery framework and includes materials covering key recovery topics.

Key points from the ASCA framework:

• Validating memories: Recognizing and affirming your experiences of abuse is crucial. Survivors may have clear or vague recollections, and acknowledging these memories is a vital step in the healing process.

• Self-soothing techniques: Developing methods to comfort yourself emotionally is essential, especially since many survivors did not learn these skills during childhood. This can include soothing touch, reassuring words, engaging in nourishing activities, and practices like meditation.

• Addressing self-sabotage: Identifying and mitigating behaviors that undermine personal success is important. Self-sabotage can manifest as poor decision-making or engaging in harmful activities, often linked to past abuse experiences.

• Enhancing self-esteem: Building a positive self-image is a major task for survivors. Chronic feelings of unworthiness are common, but with focused effort, individuals can change their perceptions and feelings about themselves.

• Identifying adult roles and parts: Understanding the various roles adopted in adulthood, some of which may be rooted in childhood coping mechanisms, helps in recognizing and modifying self-sabotaging behaviors.