A program designed to help women build self esteem and recover from life’s difficulties is set to take place next month.
‘Courage to Change’ was developed seven years ago by University of Windsor students and members of the Westover Treatment Centre’s staff.
While the program was originally for in-house use for the women in the substance dependency program at the centre, it was decided it should be also available in the community, as well as to those not specifically dealing with an addiction.
“It became so successful. We noticed a full change in the women here,” said Westover counsellor Kim Quann. “Specifically speaking in fraternization, self esteem, participation. It just went on and on.”
The Courage to Change program is for women 16 years and older and is meant to be a practical guide for those working towards healing and recovery.
Main topics include self esteem, healthy versus unhealthy relationships, and empowerment.
“(We’re) dealing with shame and guilt, and maybe some childhood trauma, or some negative experiences in their lives,” Quann said.
Weekly sessions consist of group work, activities and videos.
The initiative ran for two years, thanks to funding from the Chatham-Kent Drug Awareness Counsel.
It expanded to include more areas over the past three years with funding from the Chatham-Kent Women’s Counsel of the United Way of Chatham-Kent.
“It took off like a fire, if you will,” Quann said. “As time has gone on, as you can imagine I’ve learned so much, and of course, knowing what the women need.”
The initiative is continuing with funding from the Erie St. Clair Local Health Integration Network, she added.
“And of course, I’m always looking for donations,” Quann said.
Intended to be a first step in a process, the program encourages women to seek the help they may need from other community services upon completion.
Quann said she’s optimistic for the program’s future.
“As time goes on, I really believe that more and more women will seek it out, because it’s out-patient versus having the time or the money, or just even coming in to a centre,” Quann said. “All they need to do is contact me.”
The program will run March 7, 14 and 21, from 6:30-9:30 p.m., at St. James Anglican Church, located at 719 James St. in Wallaceburg.
To register, or for more information, contact Quann 519-692-5110 or kquann@westovertreatmentcentre.ca
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