A 12-Week Group for Healthier Relationships in Pinellas Park

Choosing Respect is a 12-week group at The Hope Center for Healing and Health for adults who want to stop abusive or controlling behavior in their relationships and build respectful ones instead. The group is led by Pamela Wiggins, MA, LMHC, at our Pinellas Park office, serving St. Petersburg, Largo, Seminole, Clearwater and all of Pinellas County. Men's and women's groups meet separately.

Who the group is for

• Adults who have used physical, verbal, emotional or financial abuse, threats or control with a partner or family member
• People who recognize patterns of anger, jealousy or control and want to change them
• Adults referred by an attorney, probation or the court (call us to talk through whether the program fits your requirements)

What we cover

The curriculum is built around the power and control model, which looks at the many ways abuse shows up beyond physical violence, and the equality and respect that healthy relationships are built on. Over 12 weeks, participants work on:

• Recognizing power and control tactics, including intimidation, isolation, minimizing and blaming
• Taking responsibility for choices and their impact on partners and children
• Understanding the beliefs and warning signs that come before abusive behavior
• Managing anger, stress and strong emotions without hurting others
• Respectful communication, negotiation and fairness
• Building trust, accountability and a plan for lasting change

How the group works

Groups meet weekly for 12 weeks in a structured, respectful setting. Each session includes education, discussion and practice. Participants complete an intake before joining. Group dates are posted on our Events page. Please call 727-575-7060 for group fees and the next start date.

If you are experiencing abuse

This group is for people who have used abuse. If you are being hurt or feel unsafe, support is available 24/7 through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. In an emergency, call 911.

Frequently asked questions

Is the group confidential?
Yes, with the legal exceptions explained at intake, such as risk of harm to others or suspected abuse of a child or vulnerable adult.

Can I join if I wasn't court-ordered?
Yes. Many participants come on their own because they want their relationships to be different.

Take the first step

Change is possible when you choose it. Call 727-575-7060 to ask about the next group.