Group Peer Support Events
Our virtual group peer support program invites people affected by IBD to connect with and provide support to others living with or caring for someone with Crohn’s and colitis. Group sessions give an opportunity for individuals to share and get support on how to deal with aspects of everyday living with IBD including the impact of IBD mental health and wellness.
How does the program work?
Bi-weekly online sessions provide a safe and confidential space that bring members of the community together to share their experiences and connect with others affected by Crohn’s or colitis. Group meetings are facilitated by staff and trained peer mentors that live with IBD or are caregivers of someone with IBD.
The group sessions typically take place during the week in the evening, using our Zoom secure platform. Video during the session is optional and information on how to turn off your video, as well as other ways to keep your information private will be provided before the session.
how can i take part?
Upcoming Sessions
In order to provide the best experience for all participants, spots are limited and several dates are offered below. You must be 18 or over to participate in this program.
Registration
Please click here to review the waiver and complete the registration form for each session. After you register, you will receive an email confirmation with details on how to join the group meeting. If you do not receive this email in your inbox, kindly check your junk or spam mail folders.
March
Ask the Expert: Mental Health and Wellness
Mar 28, 2023
7:30 to 9:00 pm ET (4:30 pm PT, 6:30 pm CT, 8:30 pm AT)
Register here
The Ask the Expert events provide unparalleled access to healthcare providers in the field of IBD. It is a unique opportunity to connect directly with experts and other people affected by Crohn’s or colitis.
Lauren Berger (MSW, RSW) will answer questions about navigating an IBD diagnosis and the importance of emotional well-being while living with a chronic illness. Lauren will answer common questions about dealing with anxiety and depression, stress and IBD and more.
You can ask questions ahead of time or during the interactive Q&A period.
*Please note that we are unable to provide individual medical advice.*
This event is offered in English with live simultaneous French interpretation.
Due to the potentially personal nature of information shared by event participants, this event will NOT be recorded. If you are unable to attend live, please stay tuned for upcoming Ask the Expert events.
Speaker:
Lauren Berger, MSW, RSW is a psychotherapist and counsellor of 15 years with a special interest in helping those with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). She is a Registered Social Worker with practices at the Toronto Immune and Digestive Health Institute (TIDHI) and the Integrative Health Institute. Lauren was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease just shy of her 10th birthday. She has developed a deep awareness and understanding of the role of emotional and psychological wellbeing while living with chronic illness, and prides herself on helping her clients cope and thrive. She is dedicated to helping those with IBD live their lives feeling more secure, in control, happier, and with an increased sense of wellbeing.
Lauren Berger is a Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Member of The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). She is also a member of the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW). Lauren earned her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from Wurzweiler School of Social Work, Yeshiva University in New York.
Register here
April
April 12, 2023
8:00 to 9:30 pm ET (5:00 pm PT, 7:00 pm CT, 9:00 pm AT)
Register here
April 26, 2023
7:30 to 9:00 pm ET (4:30 pm PT, 6:30 pm CT, 8:30 pm AT)
Register here
May
May 10, 2023
8:00 to 9:30 pm ET (5:00 pm PT, 7:00 pm CT, 9:00 pm AT)
Register here
May 23, 2023
7:30 to 9:00 pm ET (4:30 pm PT, 6:30 pm CT, 8:30 pm AT)
Register here
If the time-slot you prefer is closed, please contact us at info@gutsypeersupport.ca to be put on a wait-list and we will notify you if a spot opens up.
Waiver