The need for help and support is significant. This is what the volunteer organization Omdrejningspunktet is experiencing, which currently has a waiting list of around 100 people. Omdrejningspunktet is a nationwide organization based in Copenhagen. Here, they offer free group sessions and counseling to people who have experienced psychological violence. The organization currently runs communities and programs in several locations across the country.

– We see a massive need for help. Psychological violence in Denmark is widespread, but the availability of free and professionally grounded support is limited, says psychotherapist and co-founder of Omdrejningspunktet, Bolette Kragh.

Behind the numbers on the waiting list are individuals who have often lived for years with shattered self-esteem, anxiety, isolation, and insecurity. Psychological violence is often associated with guilt and shame. Many women report thinking: “It’s probably my own fault” or “I’m probably just too vulnerable.” At the same time, it can be difficult to explain to the outside world why one stays in an unhealthy relationship.

– Our target group is adults who, either in childhood or later in life, have experienced psychological violence in close relationships – particularly in romantic partnerships. Although the violence does not leave visible marks, the consequences can be just as serious as with physical violence, says Bolette Kragh.

At Omdrejningspunktet, participants are met at eye level and in a safe environment. The association offers free group therapy sessions, which are conducted by trained psychotherapists and individuals with personal experiences of psychological violence.

– Right now, we have a team of 60 volunteers ready to help – and yet we cannot meet the high demand. With the foundation's support, we will have the opportunity to strengthen our capacity and help more, says Bolette Kragh.

With the support from Fonden Sol og Strand, provided by Margit and Kjeld, the goal is to recruit and train more volunteers so that Omdrejningspunktet can conduct more group sessions. The sessions typically last for eight weeks and focus on understanding the dynamics of violence, regulating the nervous system, rebuilding self-esteem, and developing healthy boundaries in relationships.

– The goal is to give up to 540 people the opportunity to join a safe and professionally grounded community that can foster new networks and relationships, thereby counteracting isolation and loneliness, says Bolette Kragh.

FACTS
Omdrejningspunktet is a volunteer association founded in 2022 with the aim of supporting adults who have experienced psychological violence – either in childhood or in close relationships as adults.
Since its inception, around 1,000 women have completed a program at Omdrejningspunktet. Evaluations indicate increased life mastery, reduced anxiety and isolation, and a greater ability to set healthy boundaries.
The organization is based in Copenhagen and runs group programs in several locations across the country.