Background
Since 1990, the Women's Health Centre has provided non-medical services that address the broad determinants of health, with a particular focus on trauma issues that reside at the core of many women's presenting concerns. Our culturally sensitive and therapeutic approach reflects our feminist, anti-oppression philosophy. We emphasize personal empowerment, given the socio-political and environmental forces that affect women's lives.
The Centre is known for its client-centered approach and its response to the needs of a multi-stressed, culturally and socioeconomically diverse population. We serve women and families living mainly in Toronto, including the region of South Parkdale, where a high proportion of recent newcomers, those in transition, and/or people with mental health issues live.
Our Services
We provide free and confidential services for women ages 16 and over. In our safe environment, you can talk about your problems and needs. Our staff are trained professionals who will treat you with respect and compassion.
Individual counselling and therapy are available for women who are dealing with these issues, all of which are compounded by other life stresses and transitions:
- Childhood and adult trauma
- Relationship violence
- Immigrant, refugee and newcomer settlement issues, including adaptation to a new country, healing from torture, persecution and/or war
- Pre-and postpartum mood adjustments
- Parenting issues
Group counselling and support to enable women to learn from and encourage each other while building on their strengths. Our groups address:
- Childhood sexual abuse
- Relationship violence
- Pre-and postpartum mood disorders
- Wellness (relaxation)
- Parenting issues
Woman Abuse Prevention Education
Education, training, protocol development, and implementation for health care providers and settings.
Health Promotion and Education
Support, information, and consultation to service providers and others in the community.
Community Development, Capacity Building, and Collaboration
Staff members actively participate in a range of coalitions, partnerships, and collaborative initiatives within and outside of St. Joseph's Health Centre.
Pre-and Post-natal Nutrition and Support
We Also Provide:
- Temporary, on-site free childcare for program participants
- Clothing exchange
- Information and referrals
- Printed materials in several languages
What is Counselling?
Counselling is an opportunity to talk things over with a trained counsellor. It is a process where a person is helped in dealing with current or past personal and interpersonal conflicts. Counselling can help you make sense of your feelings, behaviours and coping strategies. It is a way to learn more about yourself, make changes and improve your overall sense of well-being by reaching specific goals.
Languages
We currently offer counselling services in a number of languages including English, French, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish and Tamil. In addition, we offer information services in Russian, Serbian and Croatian.
How to Contact Us
The Women's Health Centre is located on the Ground Floor of the Morrow Wing. You can call or drop in to talk to an intake counsellor from Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. You can also leave a message on our voice mail at any time.
Tel: 416-530-6850
Fax: 416-530-6629
E-mail: whcgroup@stjoe.on.ca
Additional Resources
A Healthy Start for Baby and Me - Best Start
Please Note: This information is to be used for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition.
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Page last updated: December 07, 2011
