Individuals experiencing violence may feel conflicted, holding onto hope that things might improve, fearing how their partner might react if they attempt to leave, or worrying about how their family or community will respond.

This experience can be isolating and overwhelming, but support is available. Counselling and support groups help individuals make sense of what they’ve lived through and support them in building new, healthy relationships.

Violence can take many forms of abuse, including psychological, financial, sexual, and more. Everyone has the right to live without fear and violence.

The Gender-Based Violence Program offers support groups for women and gender-diverse individuals who have experienced gender-based violence. These groups explore topics such as the impacts of abuse, building self-esteem, assertiveness, creating support networks, and self-care.

• Phase 1: Open to all women and gender-diverse individuals, whether they are currently in a relationship or not.
• Phase 2: For those who have left an abusive relationship and are ready to focus on healing and moving forward. Topics include trust, loneliness, healing, change, and more.

• Women and gender-diverse individuals who have experienced gender-based violence.
• Individuals seeking counselling or support groups, whether currently in an abusive relationship or having left one.

You do not need to be in a shelter to access support, nor do you need a referral from another organization. All services are provided free of charge, and there are no catchment area restrictions for the Gender-Based Violence Program.

All services are free and confidential.