Hi, my name is Nicole, I am 30 years old, and I live in Western Washington. I married my soulmate, Steve, in April of 2007, and we have five beautiful children, three of whom live with us full time. We hope to have one together soon to complete our family. I am a student at Washington State University, and I will be graduating next year (wooohoooo!).

It feels good to say all of that because my life hasn't always been this great. I was in a horribly abusive marriage from 2000-2005, and sometimes I wonder how I made it out with my sanity. Like many women, I was seduced by his careful charm, and I thought his jealous and controlling nature showed how much he loved me. I thought abuse was only physical, and since he didn't hit me, it wasn't abuse. Boy, was I wrong. It took years for me to realize what he was doing to my self-confidence and my spirit, and it was only through the help of friends and family that I was able to escape.

I believe that everything happens for a reason, and I like to think that I went through all of that so I could help others. As group leader, I will offer a shoulder to cry on, a hand to help you up, and the experience to understand what you're going through.

Please feel free to send me a private message if you need anything. I look forward to getting to know you!