The Men’s Group, called “In Conversations with MEN” is being launched at Women In Crisis Community Connection Centre and is designed for men who are ready to make positive changes in their lives and relationships.
The name of the group emphasizes the opportunity for men to engage in discussion with one another, share their experiences, and support one another in their growth and healing. Caleb Pears, Men’s Services Lead Counsellor says, “Whether it’s learning to better regulate emotions, communicate more effectively, or build healthier connections with their partners and children, this group offers a supportive and non-judgmental space.”
Starting on Tuesday, November 18th the open format Men’s Group sessions will be offered weekly between 6pm and 8pm. Pears says, “These are sessions developed to encourage honest conversation and shared learning around healthy masculinity which includes communication skills, emotional regulation and awareness, stress management, conflict resolution, accountability, and building stronger relationships. Pears says, “We want to do that in a group setting to help men gain perspective and receive encouragement and strengthen that sense of community.” The group is facilitated by two male counsellors who Women In Crisis has collaborated with and contracted through Algoma Family Services.
Who can benefit from the Men’s Group?
The Men’s Group offers a powerful opportunity for men who want to take a hard look at their actions and make meaningful change in their relationships.
It’s designed for men who may struggle to control their temper, men who worry that they’re close to crossing a line, or individuals who simply recognize that they can treat their partner and children better.
The group is also open to men who may have been charged with intimate partner violence and are ready to take responsibility and learn a new way forward. Pears says, “Through these group sessions and conversations, men can gain insight into their behavior, learn emotional regulation and learn to develop patience and empathy. “
Building Change, One Session at a Time
At Women In Crisis Community Connection Centre, men have two supportive options to begin their journey toward healthier relationships.
Individual 1-1 Counselling Sessions are currently underway, offering weekly or bi-weekly, hour-long sessions tailored to each client’s needs and pace of progress. A self-referral is required, which can be completed by contacting (705) 759-1230.
While the Group Session called “In Conversations with Men” is open Tuesday evenings from 6pm to 8pm at the Community Connections Centre, 390 Bay Street, Suite 102. No referral is required and food is provided.
Currently, there is a 10-week rotation of topics that includes,
- Healthy Relationships
- Healthy Boundaries
- Emotional Regulations and Feelings
- Core Values & Beliefs
- Conflict vs Collaboration
- How to Reconcile
- Power & Control
- Capacity & Stress Management
- Accountability & Warning Signs
- Identity & Roles
- Open Discussion & Feedback
These topics are intended as a talking point or focus for each group session, and the focus may pivot to change to meet the needs of those in attendance that particular week.
Both the individual and group sessions are free of charge, making it easier for men to take that first important step toward personal growth and positive change. Contact the Community Connection Centre.
Filling a critical gap in support
The idea for the Men’s Group grew out of a recognition that there is a gap in supports for men struggling with relationship and behavioral challenges. Women In Crisis wanted to take a more proactive approach – one that reaches men before relationships break down or violence occurs. Nicole Goulet, Supervisor at Women In Crisis Community Connection Centre says, “It’s time that we start inviting men to be part of the solution instead of teaching women how to escape and survive. It’s teaching men who weren’t taught or didn’t have role models for healthy relationships how to be healthy and supportive partners. We need to address the core dynamics in that relationship and we can’t do that just focusing on one side.”
Caleb Pears says, “With the Men’s Group and 1-1 Counselling, we are taking an approach that offers support before relationships reach a crisis point or the courts become involved.” This program gives men the opportunity to seek help voluntarily. It’s a safe, judgment-free space where men can openly discuss the complex emotions and challenges that affect their relationships. Pears adds, “It’s about helping men re-define masculinity in a healthy way, where strength includes openness, empathy, and accountability.”
By learning healthier ways to express themselves, men can gain confidence, manage stress more effectively, and begin building strong, more respectful connections with their partners and families. These types of conversations help men realize that the challenges they are facing are not unique and they are not alone.
For more information contact Women In Crisis at (705) 759-1230, or visit their website.