FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Looking for answers about The Gatehouse programs and services?
We’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions to help you learn more about our peer support groups, one-on-one services, expressive arts therapy, and how to begin your healing journey as a survivor of childhood sexual abuse. Whether you’re ready to register or simply exploring your options, you’ll find helpful information here.
The Gatehouse is a non-profit organization that supports survivors of childhood sexual abuse through peer support programs, community partnerships, and advocacy. Read about the history of The Gatehouse here.
The Gatehouse provides various programs and services aimed at supporting survivors of childhood sexual abuse, including adult survivors, children and youth ages 10-17. These may include peer support groups, individual counselling, workshops, and resources for healing and recovery.
Services are typically available to adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Some programs may also support families and partners of survivors. Eligibility criteria vary across programs. Please check each program page for eligibility.
No, there is no waitlist at this time. There are groups starting almost every month. Please check The Gatehouse website for the next group dates.
You must fill out an intake form. Once you have filled out your intake form, you e-mail it to programs@thegatehouse.org with attention to Karen MacKeigan, Program Coordinator who will then send you a link for you to schedule an intake appointment. Once the intake is completed, there are three post-intake sessions to complete to provide foundational understanding around grounding techniques, self-care, so that each participant is prepared to participate in the group
The cost for the Phase 1 program is $150 and the Phase 2 program is $160. That works out to approximately $10–11 per session.
Yes, we offer a sliding scale and payment plans to ensure finances are not a barrier to healing. Please reach out to karen@thegatehouse.org for more details.
Groups are intentionally kept small to foster safety and connection. Most have 6–10 participants, with a maximum of 10.
If you’re not ready to join a group, we offer one-on-one peer support as an alternative. This can be a stepping stone on your healing journey until you feel ready to participate in a group setting. Contact karen@thegatehouse.org to learn more.
No, our programs are offered either in person or online, but not both simultaneously. You can choose the format that works best for you.
Yes, you can drop off your completed intake form at our location (3101 Lake Shore Blvd W) from Tuesday to Thursday, between 9:30 AM and 10:00 PM. We recommend calling ahead to ensure someone will be available to receive it.
Each support group is co-facilitated by two trained volunteer facilitators. They are not therapists or counsellors but bring lived experience, peer support training, and a compassionate presence to the space.
We understand that healing is not one-size-fits-all. If a group isn’t the right fit, you’re welcome to switch to another group that may better meet your needs.
Yes. We currently offer the following free services:
Young Adult Programs for individuals aged 16–18
One-on-One Peer Support sessions for adult survivors
More info on our full range of programs is available here.
Frequently asked questions about The Gatehouse Expressive Arts Therapy
Expressive arts therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses various art forms—such as visual arts, music, dance, drama, and writing—to help individuals express emotions, explore personal issues, and facilitate healing.
People of all ages can benefit, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. It’s particularly helpful for those who find verbal communication challenging.
Activities can include painting, drawing, storytelling, music-making, movement, and drama exercises, tailored to individual needs.
No prior artistic skills are required. The focus is on the process of expression, not the end product.
Expressive arts therapy emphasizes creative expression as a way to explore feelings and experiences, whereas traditional talk therapy primarily involves verbal communication.
Expressive arts therapy can benefit people of all ages and backgrounds—especially those who find it difficult to express emotions through words alone. It’s particularly helpful for survivors of trauma, including childhood sexual abuse, as well as individuals dealing with anxiety, grief, depression, or stress. No artistic experience is needed—just a willingness to explore and create in a supportive space.
It can help with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship issues, self-esteem, and stress, among others.
Yes, there is a growing body of research supporting the effectiveness of expressive arts therapy in promoting mental health and emotional well-being.
Sessions typically last between 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the therapeutic setting and goals.
You can expect a safe, supportive environment where you’ll engage in creative activities guided by a trained therapist, allowing for exploration and expression of thoughts and feelings.