Beginning February 17, 2003 a weekly support group for victims of clergy sexual abuse will meet Monday evenings in Camden County. The support group will be facilitated by an independent, licensed clinical social worker with nearly 25 years of professional experience helping those who have been sexually abused. The meetings are open only to victims of sexual abuse by clergy of the diocese and are strictly confidential.
“This effort is a direct response to requests from victims of sexual abuse by clergy who have told us that a support group would be a great help in the process of healing. They have told us that until now, a support group facilitated by a licensed professional has been a need that has gone unmet,” said Andrew Walton, spokesman for the diocese.
“Because this is a true support group, and not a therapy session, notes are not taken, progress reports are not made. These confidential sessions will rely on group interaction facilitated by an experienced, trained professional,” said Barbara Ann Gondek, L.C.S.W., the diocese’s Victims’ Assistance Coordinator, who is responsible for developing and maintaining a comprehensive program of outreach so that victims have access to a full range of psychological, pastoral and spiritual services.
The support group is the one of a series of efforts by the diocese to reach out in a meaningful way to victims of sexual abuse. In addition to coordinating the support group, Ms. Gondek refers victims to qualified, independent counselors and coordinates the long-standing program of the diocese to pay for treatment and counseling for anyone who claims to have been sexually abused. Ms. Gondek also facilitates meetings between victims and Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio as part of the diocese’s program of pastoral outreach to victims.
Victims who wish to attend the support group sessions should contact Ms. Gondek at (856) 524- 4552.