Find abuse counselling in Kitchener & Waterloo offering compassionate support for victims of family violence, sexual abuse, and various other types of abuse.
Experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, or any form of abuse and violence can leave deep emotional wounds that take time to heal. At Upstream Counselling in the Kitchener and Waterloo Region, we understand how painful and overwhelming this can be. Our counselling services and support programs offer a safe, confidential space for women and individuals who have experienced abuse to talk, heal, and rebuild their sense of safety and strength.
Our caring counsellors and social workers provide trauma-informed and anti-oppressive support that meets you where you are. Through individual and group counselling, we focus on safety planning, emotional support, and understanding the impacts of violence. We also connect you with referrals for sexual assault support, violence prevention, and social services throughout Ontario, so you can access the help you need at every step.
You don’t have to go through this alone. Whether you’re in an immediate crisis or beginning a longer healing journey, our team works with community agencies and response programs to provide compassionate care and ongoing support for victims of abuse. Together, we can help you move toward safety, hope, and recovery.
At Upstream Counselling, we understand that living through abuse and violence can leave lasting emotional and physical scars. Whether it’s sexual violence, intimate partner violence, or childhood abuse, healing takes time—and it starts with feeling safe and supported. Our counselling centre offers a confidential, caring space where survivors can begin to rebuild their sense of safety, strength, and self-worth.
Finding someone to talk to after experiencing sexual assault, domestic abuse, or any form of violence and abuse can make a world of difference. Counselling services and support programs help people explore their emotions, rebuild confidence, and create a personal safety plan. Many survivors share that just being listened to—with care and confidentiality—helps them start to feel more in control again.
After a traumatic event, it’s easy to feel lost or anxious. With the help of trained counsellors and social workers, individuals learn coping tools that make daily life a bit easier. These counselling programs are designed to respond to the needs of each person, helping them rebuild strength and confidence step by step.
After a traumatic event, it’s easy to feel lost or anxious. With the help of trained counsellors and social workers, individuals learn coping tools that make daily life a bit easier. These counselling programs are designed to respond to the needs of each person, helping them rebuild strength and confidence step by step.
We know reaching out isn’t always easy, which is why Upstream Counselling makes support simple to access. We offer in-person, walk-in, and virtual sessions to fit your comfort and schedule. Our team also provides information on helplines, crisis lines, and support lines that are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This includes 211 Ontario, the province’s official Community and Social Services Helpline, which connects people to trusted local resources and referrals when extra support service is needed.
Violence against women and intimate partner violence can affect entire families. Our wrap-around services provide help not just for survivors, but also for children and families. Whether preparing for family court proceedings or adjusting to life after childhood abuse, our social workers and community agencies offer ongoing care with compassion and confidentiality.
Healing from abuse and violence takes time, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Through outreach programs, transitional supports, and collaborative care from service providers, survivors can begin to regain control, rebuild confidence, and move toward a safer and more hopeful future.
Take control of the process.
Beginning therapy can feel daunting but the truth is you decide what (and when) to share. Our diverse team specializes in a range of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship issues. No matter your situation, we're here to support your journey to empowerment and mental wellness.
Your therapist is your guide.
Finding the right therapist is key to achieving your goals. Dip your toes into the therapy experience by booking a free consultation with one of our registered psychotherapists. These appointments are an opportunity to address your questions and explore your challenges, needs, and aspirations.
Commit to the experience.
To maximize the benefits of counselling it’s important you attend sessions consistently. When in session, we encourage you to lead the agenda. (Remember, this is YOUR therapy!) Between sessions, we hope you will strive to apply new insights, practice new skills, and develop new habits that support personal growth.
Have you ever experienced abuse that left you feeling unsafe, alone, or unsure where to turn?
At Upstream Counselling, we provide counselling for women and individuals affected by abuse and violence. Our social workers who respond offer a safe, confidential space where you can share your story, be heard, and start finding your footing again.
Many people also feel grief and loss due to abuse, whether it’s the loss of trust, a relationship, or a sense of safety. Our team helps you work through those feelings and begin rebuilding confidence and hope.
Our counselling program includes one-on-one sessions and program supports for victims of crime, as well as services for offenders mandated by the courts. We also offer a program for men focused on improving relationships and understanding healthy behaviour.
We can work collaboratively with Kitchener and Waterloo Regional Police, the emergency department, and other service providers to make sure you receive the right information and referrals if you’re a victim of crime related to abuse or violence.
Our counsellors can also provide accompaniment during the court process and guidance for navigating the family court system, helping you feel supported every step of the way.
With interpretation services and in-person counselling, Upstream Counselling makes it easier to access help that meets the needs of individuals. Healing from abuse can take time, but with care and guidance, you can rebuild safety, trust, and hope for the future.
At Upstream Counselling, we want you to feel comfortable with the counselling process. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about talking to a therapist about this type of therapy.
Upstream Counselling Centre offers support to anyone who has experienced domestic violence, providing a safe place to talk, feel heard, and start the healing process.
Individual counselling: Meet one-on-one with caring social workers who respond to your needs, helping you process trauma, regain confidence, and feel safe again.
Group support programs: Being with others who understand your experience can ease loneliness and provide a sense of connection while learning coping strategies.
Safety planning and guidance: Our counsellors help you create practical strategies to stay safe in daily life, whether at home, work, or elsewhere.
Information and referrals: We connect you with community agencies and legal supports to make sure your needs are met beyond counselling.
Emotional recovery: Our sessions support healing from grief and loss, rebuild trust, and help you take small steps toward feeling whole again.
Survivors of sexual assault can access counselling and support designed to help them feel safe, understood, and empowered.
One-on-one counselling: Individual sessions let you share your experience at your own pace, process trauma, and learn ways to cope with difficult emotions.
Peer support and group programs: Connecting with others who’ve had similar experiences can reduce isolation and offer comfort and understanding.
Educational resources: Learn about the effects of trauma and practical strategies to support your emotional and mental well-being.
Referrals to additional services: Our counsellors connect you to specialized programs and services to meet your specific needs.
There are many community agencies that provide sexual assault support, including counselling, advocacy, and safety guidance.
Referral process: You can be referred directly by Upstream Counselling Centre or reach out to an agency yourself to get help quickly.
Continuity of care: Working with multiple agencies ensures you receive consistent support for both emotional and practical needs.
Supportive environment: All services prioritize safety, confidentiality, and understanding, so you feel heard and respected throughout your healing.
If you’re in immediate need, a crisis line or helpline is available around the clock to listen, guide, and connect you to resources.
Crisis support: Trained professionals can provide reassurance, help with safety planning, and answer questions when you need help the most.
24/7 availability: Help is always available, so you don’t have to wait or face the situation alone.
Referrals and guidance: Callers are connected to community agencies and counselling programs that meet their ongoing needs.
Emotional reassurance: Just talking to someone trained in abuse support can help reduce fear and bring hope during a difficult moment.
The program for men focuses on understanding and changing harmful behaviours while improving their relationships with others.
Behavioural education: Participants learn to recognize patterns of abuse and explore strategies for making positive changes.
Counselling support: Individual and group counselling helps men reflect, take responsibility, and develop healthier ways to cope with stress or conflict.
Relationship improvement: The program guides participants in building respectful and safe relationships with partners, family, and the community.
Male crisis support: Male survivors of sexual abuse can reach the Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse Crisis Line: 1-866-887-0015 (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week) for immediate assistance.
Preventing woman abuse: By learning accountability and new ways of relating, participants contribute to preventing woman abuse in the community.
Our team at Upstream Counselling is here to help you explore issues, gain insights, begin your journey towards healing, and work towards the goals you identify during the counselling process.
Personalized therapy designed to address specific mental health issues while also nurturing personal growth and well-being.
A counselling program focusing on fostering effective communication, resolving conflicts, and nurturing healthy relationships.
A program designed to support clinical growth, whether you’re a student or a seasoned professional.
Know who you want to book with?
Book Online HereHave questions about counselling or something else?
Call or email us.
Want help choosing the right therapist? Complete our connect form below.
We are ready and looking forward to meeting you. Get started today by clicking the link below and booking your free 15-minute discovery call. All our services are private and confidential.
Disclaimer: Content on this website is for informational purposes only. Visiting this website does not establish any type of therapist-client relationship with Upstream Counselling or its staff. Information obtained from this site does not substitute for a thorough medical and/or psychiatric evaluation by an appropriately credentialed and licensed professional.
