Cancer Counselling Groups
Peer support, facilitated by a registered mental health professional
Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka offers free Support Groups to those impacted by cancer—including those living with a cancer diagnosis, those who are finished cancer treatment, caregivers, and those who are grieving the death of someone due to cancer. There are three different categories to counselling groups, which are Support Groups, Networking Groups, and Art Therapy Processing Groups. Please see below for the groups that fall under each category.
All Support Groups at Gilda’s Club are professionally facilitated by a registered mental health professional, with the goal of encouraging peer support and connecting you to others who “get it.”
Support Groups
Caregiver Support Group
In Person
For anyone caring for a loved one with cancer — from diagnosis through the first year after treatment. A place to share, connect, and feel supported.
Facing Forward Support Groups
Virtual
For those recently finished treatment through five years post-treatment. A space to reflect, process, and look toward what’s next — together.
Family & Friends Support Group
Virtual
For family and friends whose loved one is recently diagnosed or up to 12 months post-treatment. Come find community and compassion as you navigate this together.
Grief & Loss Support Group
Virtual
For those grieving the loss of someone to cancer, from recent loss to up to 5 years. A space to honour your person, share your feelings, and find support as you navigate grief.
Living With Advanced Cancer Support Group
Virtual
For individuals navigating life with stage 4 cancer. Come as you are to receive support, care, and community.
Living With Cancer Support Group
In Person
For those living with a current cancer diagnosis, from a recent diagnosis through 18 months post-treatment. A place to share, cope, and feel supported along the way.
Newly Diagnosed Support Group
In Person
For those recently diagnosed with cancer, up to one year post-diagnosis. A space to share fears, find strength, and feel supported from the start.
Networking Groups
Blood Cancer Networking Group
In Person
For those living with blood cancer — from recent diagnosis through 12 months post-treatment, and for individuals who identify with ‘watch and wait’ status.
Breast Cancer Networking Group
Virtual & In Person
For individuals living with breast cancer — from recent diagnosis through the first year after treatment. Connect with others and feel supported along the way.
Early Onset - Young Adult Group
Virtual
For young adults (18-40) living with cancer — from recent diagnosis through 24 months post treatment. Connect with peers who understand the unique challenges of facing cancer at a younger age.
Processing Groups
Creative Reflections: Art Therapy Open Group
In Person
A single-session art therapy group focused on self-reflection and creative growth. Each session explores a different theme such as self-care, emotional regulation, inner strengths, identity, grief, and connection with nature.
Layers of Grief: Art Therapy Closed Group
In Person
A 7-week art therapy support group for individuals affected by cancer. Through creative expression and shared reflection, participants explore the layers of grief, loss, and healing while connecting with others who understand.
Identity After Diagnosis: Art Therapy Closed Group
Virtual
A 7-week art therapy series exploring the layers of how cancer can impact identity, relationships, and the future. Through creativity and reflection, participants are supported in processing their experiences in a safe, caring space.