Haven Society

For women whose lives have been affected by recent or historic violence and abuse to begin reclaiming their sense of self and safety.

What is the Women’s Counselling Program?

The Women’s Counselling Program provides individual and group counselling for women (19 years and older) whose lives are affected by childhood abuse, sexual assault, as well as abuse and violence in relationships, intimate and other. Women’s experience of abuse can be complex, as trauma has a powerful impact. Responses to trauma are diverse and deserve focus that builds safety, skills and strategies for recovery. Approaches to healing at Haven Society promote awareness, positive beliefs, reconnection and renewal.

The Women’s Counselling Program is part of a larger mandate of Stopping the Violence provincial programs provided since 1992. Counselling services are provided from a feminist perspective based on respectful relationships and self-determination. Appointments with counselors take place in an accessible, safe and supportive environment that fosters awareness and self-empowerment. All programs and services are based on respect for safety and human dignity regardless of economic status, gender, age, race, cultural or ethnic origins, physical ability, mental ability, or sexuality.

All counselling is free of charge and confidential. Child care for individuals or group sessions may be arranged with sufficient notice.

What Groups and Workshops are offered?

The Women’s Counselling Program offers workshops, open groups and closed therapeutic groups at different times throughout the year. Our groups are designed for women who have experienced violence or abuse and are dealing with the after effects of trauma.

Strategies for Empowerment

This is a four session workshop where women receive information about how trauma affects us physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. The intention of the workshop is to provide education and support to help women heal and to develop coping strategies that increase inner strength and personal empowerment.

Open Groups

This group focuses on building knowledge, sharing wisdom and strengthening support through a cycle of topics that encourage awareness rather than disclosure of personal trauma stories. The group format provides a high level of safety and containment to support the development of safety, stability and healing for women affected by violence. By remaining open, it allows for changing as well as continuing membership.

Closed Groups

This group focuses on creating trust and safety within the healing context that promotes trauma recovery, stability and personal renewal. These groups are offered as the need for a deeper exploration of concerns and changes emerge from women accessing counselling services who are building new experiences, strengthening lives free from violence and re-connecting with others.

For an appointment or information please call (250) 756-2452

Office hours Monday to Friday 9:00am to 4:30pm

If you are in crisis, please call our 24 hour Crisis Line at (250) 756-0616