Peer Support Group
How does the COEFS peer support group work?
The COEFS peer support group runs on a private Facebook group, which is invite only and all members must answer the screening questions before being approved. Once you join the group, you can chat to other members online anytime and once a week we will post a Zoom link for the live support group session overseen by the counselling team at Elizabeth Fry. Any online dialogue between members outside of the Zoom sessions will not be regularly monitored by the counselling team.
What can I expect from the group?
The Zoom sessions run weekly for two hours. We ask that group members do their best to arrive on time and join quietly if they are running late. All group members must read and agree to the group guidelines which you can read here. One of the COEFS counsellors will facilitate the running of the group, starting with introductions, and then providing a theme or topic for that week’s group. We might start with a coping skill, such as a mindfulness exercise, or some other informational or educational resource. Group members are then invited to share if they wish, but there is no pressure or expectation to share if you don’t want to. The counsellor will make sure everyone who needs space to share is able to do so. We wrap up with expressing gratitude for each other and the space.
How can I join?
The COEFS peer support group is free of charge and open to any individual who has experienced sexual violence, but it is an invite-only group. If you are interested in finding out more or joining the group, please email or call the office.
Central Okanagan Elizabeth Fry Society
250-763-4613
info@efryokanagan.com
“This group made me feel that moving forward is actually possible and how important it is to have peers to relate and share experiences with”
What is a peer support group?
A peer support group is a safe place to share your story, struggles and successes, and to listen to others as they share similar experiences. You can get a sense of belonging, information about mental health challenges and resources, and most of all, the support of others who have “been there”.
The COEFS peer support group is facilitated by one of our counsellors to ensure safety and provide structure to the group, but peer support groups do not provide counselling or treatment and are NOT a replacement for individual or group therapy. Additionally, a peer support group is not a crisis support service. If you need immediate crisis support, there is a resources section available on our Facebook group with more information..
