The Crime Victims Council of Lehigh Valley Inc. will offer a new support counseling group beginning Wednesday, Jan. 23, for women 18 years of age and over, who have been sexually assaulted or sexually abused.

The group will meet from 5:30 to 7 p.m. for 10 weekly sessions at the Crime Victims Council's Allentown office, located at 801 Hamilton St.

Topics of discussion will include the emotional aftermath, coping skills and relationship issues.

The support group is confidential, facilitated by two trained sexual assault counselors and provided at no cost.

Intake interviews are required before the first session and referrals from therapists or other service providers are welcome.

New participants will not be accepted after the third session.

For more information or to schedule an interview, call 610-437-6610, ext. 19, or email directservice@ cvclv.org by Jan. 25.

In addition to individual and group counseling, the organization provides a 24-hour hot line, crisis intervention at area hospitals, accompaniment at police departments and court proceedings, assistance with filing for Pennsylvania Victims Compensation and educational programs for the schools and community groups.

To obtain more information about CVC services, call 610-437-6610 or go to the website at www.cvclv.org.