If you are interested in this group, please contact gbsvsupport@lethpolytech.ca (see below for more info).
Crafts, Arts, and Community for for anyone who has experienced gender-based violence including: relationship violence, sexual harassment, sexual violence, stalking, and more.
Our peer support group is a confidential, trauma-informed space where people with shared experiences of sexual violence can come together to connect, share, and support one another. This group is co-facilitated by a trained student peer and a professional staff member. The co-leadership model offers a balance of peer connection and professional support, ensuring a safe and supportive space. But the emphasis is on mutual support — not therapy or clinical treatment.
Each session may include:
- Check-ins and optional sharing
- Guided topics or themes (like coping strategies, boundaries, or self-care)
- Opportunities for discussion, reflection, and support
- Gentle structure, with flexibility based on group needs
- Arts and crafts and conversation
- Snacks (courtesy of Westco Construction Ltd)
You are always welcome to participate at your own pace. There is no pressure to share more than you're comfortable with.
How Is This Different from a Counselling Group?
A peer support group focuses on connection and community through shared experience. The facilitator’s role is to create a safe space and guide conversation, but not to provide clinical treatment or therapy.
A counselling group, on the other hand, is typically led by a licensed therapist and includes structured therapeutic interventions. It often involves goal-setting and is part of a treatment plan.
Our peer group is not a substitute for individual or group therapy — but it can be a meaningful complement to other forms of support.
This Group May Be a Good Fit for Me If...
- I have experienced sexual violence and am looking to connect with others who understand.
- I want a supportive, non-judgmental space where I can listen or share.
- I’m not in immediate crisis, but I would benefit from community and connection.
- I’m interested in exploring healing and coping through peer-based discussion.
This Group May Not Be the Right Fit for Me If...
- I’m in acute crisis or need immediate one-on-one therapeutic support.
- I’m seeking formal counselling or clinical treatment.
- I find group environments distressing or overwhelming right now.
- I am hoping for a drop-in space (this group requires an intake process and commitment to attend regularly).
If you're unsure, we're happy to talk it through with you — you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Why Is There an Intake?
The intake process helps ensure the group is a safe and supportive space for everyone involved. It’s not an interview or a test — it’s a conversation where we:
- Learn more about what you're looking for
- Answer your questions about the group
- Make sure the group is a good fit for you at this time
We know that reaching out can feel vulnerable. Our approach is always gentle, trauma-informed, and at your pace.
If you are interested in this group and would like to meet for a brief intake ( either by phone, teams or in person) please contact gbsvsupport@lethpolytech.ca
What can I expect in a group?
- Every group will follow the same format, so you know what to expect.
- Check in- introduce yourself ( no need to say anything more than your name unless you wish to!)
- Guideline Review and expectations of confidentiality
- Review of Resources available
- Arts and crafts
- Sharing prompt and discussion- only participate if you feel comfortable. Listening can be great, too!
- Check out –let's think of something that will end our time together and get your head and heart in a good place leaving the group session.
Understanding Our Group Guidelines
These guidelines are designed to help create a space where everyone can feel safe, respected, and supported. Whether you're here to share, listen, or just be present, these principles help us build a community of care.
Confidentiality
What’s shared in the group stays in the group. Trust is essential, and this space relies on each person’s commitment to privacy. We ask that you do not share anyone else’s story or identity outside the group.
Share Only What You Feel Comfortable
You are in control of your story. You never have to share more than you’re ready for — and there is no expectation to share at all. Listening is also a meaningful way to participate. If you do choose to share, consider how it may affect others in the space.
Be Mindful of Assumptions
Everyone’s experience with sexual violence is different. Please avoid making generalizations or assumptions about how others feel, heal, or respond. What’s true for you may not be true for someone else — and that’s okay. Openness and respect help us hold space for all kinds of experiences.
Lead with Empathy and Support
We’re here to support one another, not to fix or advise unless invited. Kindness, validation, and curiosity go a long way. If someone shares something that resonates with you, it's okay to say so — just remember we’re all here to learn from each other, not to compare or compete.