Our Mission

Vision Statement

Emotional wellness for all, both now and for future generations.

Purpose Statement

Healing Private Wounds is a faith inspired nonprofit organization that cherishes all individuals and the community that supports our mission. We strive to help men, women, teens, and children who have life experiences that prohibit them from living a life of fulfillment and peace. We target issues such as anxiety, depression and grief and offer support from emotional, verbal, physical and sexual abuse. Our services include therapy for clients and their families, friendships through peer-driven support groups, life skills book studies, workshops and presentations for schools and organizations. Our 30 plus volunteers allow us to provide our services at no charge. Our programs have proven to change lives and restore wellbeing. Please partner with us in our very important work.  We are so grateful for our caring donors. We exist because of them.

How We Got Started

Healing Private Wounds sprung from an overwhelming response to Shirley Jo Petersen’s book, “The Whisper.” A story of one woman’s journey from being a victim of sexual abuse to becoming a “thriving survivor.”

At a book signing in 2006, Shirley met another survivor, Amy Fite, and a deep, lasting friendship began. Each had the desire to begin a recovery group to help other victims of sexual abuse heal. Three months later “Grow Group” put its roots down and we welcomed our first ten members.

In January 2010, Healing Private Wounds became a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and has since developed many programs dedicated to a variety of groups and life experiences, covering healing, education, support groups and more.

Volunteer With Us

The need for our services continues to grow as more victims are coming out and telling their stories. Because we are an all-volunteer organization, we rely on our volunteers and donors to keep us going. We are always looking for more volunteers to help facilitate and promote our programs. You do not have to be a survivor to volunteer and be a part of our organization.