The Paths of Change Men’s Group Counselling Program is for men who have been abusive in an intimate partner relationship. The primary goal of this program is for the men to learn to deal with conflict and anger in a relationship in a non-abusive manner. The men may be referred to the program by the courts or Child Welfare or they may be voluntary participants.

The Paths of Change Women’s Group Counselling Program is for women who are affected by abuse in an intimate partner relationship. The primary goal of this program is the emotional and spiritual recovery from the abuse and the empowerment to live without abuse.

An Introductory Meeting is held once a week, Tuesday’s for Men and Wednesday for Women, where potential clients will receive an overview of the counselling program. They will also have an introduction to what abuse is and what resources are available; and they may also register for Phase I or receive a referral to elsewhere.

Phase I is a rotating 6-week psycho-educational counselling program with an emphasis on providing information about abuse. Clients with gain an understanding of what abuse is; dealing with anger; safety planning; assertive communication; stress management; an understanding power and control and the effects of abuse on children.

Phase II is a closed and intensive 12-week program for those who have completed Phase I. Clients will participate in sessions that include understanding attitudes and responses to anger, raising awareness of and expressing feelings that deal with anger and stress; learning communication skills; self-esteem; assertiveness; guilt and shame; conflict resolution; healthy relationships; family of origin; accepting responsibility for one’s behaviour.

If an individual is unable to attend the group-counselling program, we will work with that individual to make other arrangements, which may include individual counselling.

Both the group-counselling program and individual counselling deal with clients who have been affected by trauma and its ongoing emotional, spiritual, mental and physical affects.

Individuals accessing the YWCA of Calgary and Calgary Legal Guidance may receive assistance from a social worker & lawyer team through this program. This program assists individuals with obtaining restraining orders, updates of court proceedings, assistance with preparing an individual for testifying at a trial and with crisis counselling and referrals.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
YWCA Sheriff King Home
2003- 16th Street SE
(403) 266-4111
Email: sheriffk@ywcaofcalgary.com