Women's Counselling Program
The Women's Counselling Program provides free long-term individual counselling and/or psycho-educational groups. Women accessing this service were impacted by violence: in childhood, in intimate relationships, by sexual assault, and/or other forms of violence or abuse.
This may be expressed in a variety of ways, including psychological, emotional, or financial abuse, threats of violence, or abuse including harassment and stalking. Those who witness violence and abuse may also be profoundly impacted.
These types of traumas have physical, emotional, psychological, neurological, and relational impact on an individual.
The counselling approach is based on a trauma-specific framework and an ethical feminist practice. Feminist counselling respects a woman's right to make her won decisions, and views women themselves as being in the best position to determine what is in their best interest. It supports women without judgment or criticism, and encourages them to access their own inner strength. Trauma-related educational presentations are available to the communities and professionals upon request.
Counselling is provided to women 19 years or older, or, if younger, who are living an adult lifestyle. Our services are confidential. Counselling sessions may only be discussed with other persons after having your written permission to do so, except as required by law in order to ensure the safety of persons at risk. Counsellors are then required to report information regarding a) a child at risk, or b) existence of a threat to harm yourself or others. Counsellors may also have to answer questions if ordered by court (if subpoenaed).
You are welcome to interview the counsellor. She will share information about her training, approaches, and techniques, in order to help you decide whether she offers the services you are looking for. Should you choose not to pursue with her, she will help you secure counselling in another agency, should you so choose.
Counselling is provided within a safe and supportive environment either in at the Islands Women Society in Queen Charlotte village or at Helping House in Skidegate.
