This program encourages you to look inward and reflect on your past experiences and relationship with yourself in order to strengthen self-esteem and self worth. Each week we’ll cover a different topic and you’ll have the opportunity to learn new skills and interrupt unhelpful patterns. Topics include: building a self care practice, reframing self-talk, trauma’s impact on the brain & body, understanding our emotions, exploring anger, understanding abuse, and defining healthy relationships and healthy sexuality.
Our Programs & Services
At North York Women’s Centre, We’re Here for You
We’re here for you, wherever you are in your journey. We support you to heal from violence, connect with your own voice, build confidence, learn new skills, and find community. We bring women, girls, and gender diverse people together to unlock their potential and build a braver, more equitable world.
Group Programs
About Group Programs
Skill-based group support programs that focus on building your strengths and personal power. All of our programs are multi-week, “closed group” programs that offer a compassionate approach to change, allowing for long lasting impacts that make a real difference.
Who is this for?
Our group programs are open to all women and gender-diverse adults 18+ in Toronto, unless otherwise specified, whether they are carrying experiences of trauma, uncertainty, or seeking connection and belonging.
NYWC is committed to offering low-barrier programs and services. If our programs feel like a good fit, we welcome you to join us.
Program details
NYWC Group Programs are run by NYWC team members who bring their lived experience and facilitation skills to each group. However, our staff are not licensed counselors, registered social workers, or therapists and our group programs are not a substitute for formal counselling.
NYWC Group Programs are:
- Peer support based, meaning that we are all here because of some shared experiences
- Skills based, meaning that we focus on building practical, tangible skills
- Community based, meaning that we intentionally create space for you to connect with one another to build and strengthen your support networks
NYWC Group Programs are considered “closed group” programs, which means that registration is required and new participants cannot drop in after the session has started. This allows for safety in the group space when sharing personal details.
Participants will receive a folder and weekly handouts as a part of attending the program. These handouts will be used in session each week and provide helpful information and reference for after the group is complete.
NYWC supplies light refreshments each week and is able to provide TTC tickets to participants who need them. Our team is also able to provide childminding for programs that are hosted at our office.
Accessibility
North York Women’s Centre recognizes the dignity and worth of all people and is committed to providing fair, equitable access to our services. We aim to create a harmonious environment free from discrimination, harassment and hate.
Talk with us about accommodations you need to participate fully in our programs and services.
Get in Touch with NYWC
Call or Text Us
Visit Our Office
116 Industry Street
Toronto, Ontario,
M6M 4L8
Open Monday to Friday
9 AM – 4:30 PM
Current Programs
Program:
Women’s Empowerment: Discovering Our Power
Timeline:
10 weeks
Upcoming Dates:
Fall session: Thursdays, October 9 - December 18, 2025. 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Program Details
Fall Session
Date: Thursdays, October 9 - December 18, 2025
Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Location: In person at 255 Ranee Avenue, Suites 4 & 5 (North York Community House)
How to Get Involved
Complete a Program Inquiry Form and our team will reach out to you to schedule an intake appointment for the upcoming cohort.
For any questions or to learn more information, send us an email at program@nywc.org or give us a call at (416) 781-0479.
Program:
Women’s Empowerment: Exploring Our Potential
Timeline:
10 weeks
Upcoming Dates:
Fall Session: Tuesdays October 7 - December 9, 2025. 12:30pm - 2:30pm
This program encourages you to look forward towards your future goals in order to build resilience and embody your strengths/skills. Each week will cover a different topic and you will have the opportunity to learn new skills and expand your definition of what is possible in your future. Topics include: self compassion, visualizing the future self, reframing self talk, creating SMART goals, action planning & habit forming, identity & intersectionality as tools for change, exploring triggers, and healthy relationships.
Program Details
Fall Session
Date: Tuesdays, October 7 - December 9, 2025
Time: 12:30pm - 2:30pm
Location: Onsite at NYWC, 116 Industry Street.
How to Get Involved
Complete a Program Inquiry Form and our team will reach out to you to schedule an intake appointment for the upcoming cohort.
For any questions or to learn more information, send us an email at program@nywc.org or give us a call at (416) 781-0479
Program:
Women’s Empowerment: Asserting Ourselves
Timeline:
10 weeks
Upcoming Dates:
Winter Session: Tuesdays, January 20 - March 24, 2026. 12:30pm - 2:30pm
This program encourages you to look outward and reflect on how you show up in your relationships with others to build confidence and strengthen your voice. Each week will cover a different topic and you will have the opportunity for hands-on skill building to support you in challenging their typical relationship dynamic. Topics include: communication strategies, I statements, boundaries, active listening, voice and intonation, conflict management, recognizing abusive dynamics, and rupture & repair.
Program Details
Winter Session
Date: Tuesdays, January 20 - March 24, 2026
Time: 12:30pm - 2:30pm
Location: In person, location TBD
How to Get Involved
Complete a Program Inquiry Form and our team will reach out to you to schedule an intake appointment for the upcoming cohort.
For any questions or to learn more information, send us an email at program@nywc.org or give us a call at (416) 781-0479
Program:
Seniors Empowerment & Safety Program
Timeline:
10 weeks
Upcoming Dates:
Fall Cohort: September 25 - November 27, 2025. Thursdays, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
This program encourages women 60+ to boldly take up space in a world that often sees older women as invisible. Each week participants will have the opportunity to learn new skills to prevent and respond to gender-based violence (whether in their own lives or in the lives of others) all while building social connections with their peers to reduce isolation.Topics include: building self esteem, strengthening communication skills, online safety for dating, recognizing abuse, age discrimination, caregiving, aging in place, and financial safety.
Program Details
Fall Cohort
Date: Thursdays, September 25 - November 27, 2025
Time: 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Location: In person, 21 Hendon Avenue (North York Seniors Centre)
How to Get Involved
Complete a Program Inquiry Form and our team will reach out to you to schedule an intake appointment for the upcoming cohort.
For any questions or to learn more information, send us an email at program@nywc.org or give us a call at (416) 781-0479.
“I am truly grateful for this program. I looked forward to it weekly. I would come to this program sad or down about something that happened and after I left, I would feel so empowered and so happy and proud. For that I am forever appreciative and thankful.”
One-on-One Support
About One-on-One Support
We offer a safe, confidential space where women and gender-diverse people can receive short-term one-on-one support from trained staff. While NYWC staff are not registered counselors, they are trained in trauma-informed support, systems navigation and active listening. Each conversation is rooted in collaboration, care, and respect.
What to Expect
We offer a safe, and confidential space where women and gender-diverse people can connect with our trained Peer Services team for supportive conversations and resource navigation. NYWC does not provide crisis support. Our staff are trained to provide short-term, compassionate, and structured peer support.
Peer support is available in two ways:
- Information & Resource Line - by phone or email, for conversations up to 30 minutes
- One-on-One Appointments - up to 1 hour, scheduled virtually, by phone, or in person
These services are open to anyone 18 or older who may be feeling lonely, isolated, looking for resources or in need of a listening ear. Our Peer Services team are not registered counsellors, but are trained in trauma-informed support, active listening, and systems navigation. Each interaction is rooted in collaboration, care and respect, with the belief that you are the expert in your own life.
It is important to note that NYWC does not provide medical or clinical advice but can refer you to an allied organization.
Who is this for?
Our One-on-One Support is open to all women and gender-diverse adults 18+ in Toronto who are looking for support with systems navigation, information on resources, or a supportive, non-judgemental space to share their experiences.
NYWC is committed to providing low-barrier programs and services. If you would benefit from One-on-One Peer Support, please reach out to our staff to schedule an appointment.
Accessibility
North York Women’s Centre recognizes the dignity and worth of all people and is committed to providing fair, equitable access to our services fairly and equitably. NYWC strives to be accessible to all women and gender-diverse people regardless of their race, ancestry, colour, creed, ethnicity, place of origin, citizenship, immigration status, age, disability, sexual orientation, receipt of public assistance, political affiliation, religious affiliation, literacy level, language and/or socio-economic status. We aim to create a harmonious environment free from discrimination, harassment and hate.
Talk with us about accommodations you need to participate fully in our programs and services.
“I am finally after 15+ years facing my challenges head-on and coming up with solutions, especially with your support.”
STEPS to Work Program
Program:
STEPS to Work
Timeline:
9 weeks
Upcoming Dates:
Program redesign in progress (contact us for more information)
This program works closely with you to build the tools, skills, and self-confidence to prepare for an entry/return to work as a foundation for long-term stability and success.
Through regular one-on-one support and weekly group workshops, you are supported with a guided exploration of identifying your employment goals, work options, identifying gender-based barriers in the workplace, connections to training, education, or an employment program that matches your aims.
Through ongoing one-on-one support, you will work alongside staff to manage any barriers they may encounter along your journey. You will also partake in legal education sessions to understand their rights in the workplace (disability accommodations, harassment, etc.).
How to Get Involved
Complete a Program Inquiry Form and our team will reach out to you to schedule an intake appointment for the upcoming cohort.
For any questions or to learn more information, send us an email at program@nywc.org or give us a call at (416) 781-0479.
Get in Touch with NYWC
Call or Text Us
Visit Our Office
116 Industry Street
Toronto, Ontario,
M6M 4L8
Open Monday to Friday
9 AM – 4:30 PM
The Lounge
About the Lounge
Our Lounge is a welcoming drop-in space where women and gender-diverse people can connect, rest, build community and participate in low barrier programs. We offer creative, empowering, skill-building activities as well as connections with essential services like legal support, employment resources, and mental health assistance.
For more information about what to expect at The Lounge, see our events calendar below.
Who is this for?
The Lounge is open to women and gender-diverse adults 18+ in Toronto who are looking for a welcoming space to connect, socialize, and explore activities or resources that interest them.
NYWC is committed to offering low-barrier programs and services. If you’d like to join Lounge sessions, we warmly encourage you to drop in and say hello!
Accessibility
North York Women’s Centre recognizes the dignity and worth of all people and is committed to providing fair, equitable access to our services. We aim to create a harmonious environment free from discrimination, harassment and hate.
Talk with us about accommodations you may need to participate fully in our programs and services.
Get in Touch with NYWC
Call or Text Us
Visit Our Office
116 Industry Street
Toronto, Ontario,
M6M 4L8
Open Monday to Friday
9 AM – 4:30 PM
Schedule and Events Calendar
Events for December 7, 2025
Stay Connected, Sign-up for Our Newsletter
Want to stay in the know about all things NYWC? Sign up for our Newsletter! Once a month, you’ll get a full overview of upcoming Group Programs, Lounge events, volunteer and job opportunities, and other community announcements.
“Meeting women from different backgrounds, especially for me as a newcomer, the Women’s Lounge was like the wide gate to getting to know Canadian society and culture in a very safe environment.”