Programs & Services > New Directions > Support Groups
New Directions Support Groups
Service Description:
The support groups are based on the belief that women experiencing a life transition can take control of their lives. The groups provide a safe and supportive environment for learning effective ways of dealing with the dramatic changes that often accompany the loss of an intimate partner. Support groups specifically for separated lesbian/bi/trans women commence in Fall 2006.
In these confidential group sessions, participants are encouraged to explore new ways of relating to themselves and the world around them. The model for the support groups is based on principles of self help. Participants receive emotional and practical support as well as opportunities for learning and sharing coping strategies.
Each support group consists of eight 2 ½ hour sessions. Groups are led by two trained and supervised facilitatorswho have also experienced the loss of a partner through separation, divorce or bereavement.
Support groups do not take the place of professional therapy.
Support group participants have ranged in age from 20 to 70 and represent a variety of financial, education, and work backgrounds. Some women are more recently arrived in Canada. They have all benefited from the support and discussion that evolves in the group sessions.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: Refer to the Frequently Asked Questions: Support Groups section of the website for additional information about the groups.
Registration Information:
Date: Groups operate throughout the year
An initial interview is required. Call Service Access at 416.595.9618 for information about this group and to arrange an interview
Fee:$100, subsidies are available based on family size and income.
* An initial meeting with the program coordinator is required. This confidential interview provides an opportunity for our staff to respond to a woman’s questions about the support groups.
Call Service Access at 416.595.9618 for additional information or to arrange an initial meeting with the program coordinator.
Current Groups:
Widows Support Group
Women experiencing a life transition can take control of their lives. New Directions support groups provide a safe and supportive environment for learning effective ways of dealing with the dramatic changes that often accompany the loss of an intimate partner through bereavement.
Participants are encouraged to explore new ways of relating to themselves and the world around them. The group model is based on principles of self help. Participants benefit from emotional and practical support along with opportunities for learning and sharing successful coping strategies.
This 8 week support group for widows is lead by two trained and supervised
facilitators who have also experienced the death of a partner.
Topics Include:
- Understanding the grieving process
- Taking care of myself
- Redefining our relationships
- Opening new doors
New Directions is strongly committed to anti-discrimination practice and services are available regardless of age, cultural background, race, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status. Our facilities are wheelchair accessible. We provide services for people living or working in the Toronto area.
Date: April 9, 2008
Time: 6:30 – 9:00 p.m.
Fees: $100. Ask us about program subsidies that
may apply
Location: Lawrence Square, 700 Lawrence Avenue West, Suite 420A (Lawrence West subway stop on the Spadina line)
Registration: Call Service Access at 416.595.9618 to register
