A new program at La Traversée helps women rebuild through the power of connection and therapeutic expertise.
Sexual violence can leave deep marks—on the body, heart, and mind—turning each day into a silent struggle. Symptoms of post-traumatic stress, psychological distress, and depression are common.
And yet, there is a path to healing. For some, that path begins by connecting with others who’ve lived through similar experiences.
That’s exactly what La Traversée’s new, free group psychotherapy program offers—carefully designed to support adult women who have experienced sexual violence.
Why Choose Group Psychotherapy?
Breaking isolation is often the first step toward healing. Joining a group psychotherapy program can help participants realize they are not alone in carrying the weight of trauma, the feelings of inadequacy, or the constant sense of being on high alert. It’s a chance to move forward, surrounded by compassion and clinical expertise, in a space where suffering is acknowledged and heard.
- Over 18 weeks, a group of 6 to 8 women meets once a week, guided by two psychotherapists who specialize in sexual violence.
- Each session focuses on a key theme: the impact of trauma, emotional regulation, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, and more.
- The goal? To help each woman reclaim power in her life, reduce trauma-related disruptions, and begin a true healing journey.
Peer Support and Psychotherapy: Complementary Approaches
Peer support groups and psychotherapy groups serve different purposes—and can complement each other. At La Traversée, group psychotherapy is a structured psychological treatment for mental health issues resulting from sexual violence.
This framework allows for deep, adapted psychotherapeutic work, grounded in proven methods such as psychodynamic, humanistic, and cognitive-behavioural therapy. This approach goes beyond emotional support; it offers a clinical, healing-focused process.
What Makes It Transformational?
When a woman joins a psychotherapy group, something unique can unfold. She may realize that what she’s feeling—shame, guilt, fear—is not a personal failing, but a human response to violence.
Simply being heard without judgment, in a safe space, can be the first step toward healing. And for some, witnessing other women regain control of their lives becomes a source of inspiration and strength.
But it’s important to remember that every healing journey is different. For some, it takes more time or follows a different path. Healing isn’t linear—and every woman moves forward at her own pace.
“I’ve learned to see myself differently, to stop feeling guilty or crushed by anger. Today, I’m beginning to believe I deserve happiness.” — Nicole
Together, We Can Break the Silence
As a donor, partner, or member of our community, you can play a vital role in the success of this program. By sharing this resource, you may help a woman discover the group—and begin her own journey toward healing.
Perhaps you know an organization, clinic, or professional who works with survivors of sexual violence. Maybe someone in your network could benefit from this group.
Every gesture matters. Every shared word can open a door.
A Free and Expanding Program
This group psychotherapy program will launch in September 2025 at La Traversée in Saint-Lambert. It is completely free and confidential, and will eventually expand to include groups for men as well.
👉 Learn more about the group psychotherapy program
Together, we can offer these women more than just a space—we can offer a real opportunity to rebuild.
Thank you for being an ally in this essential mission.