Step Forward Health Society Launches a New Cohort Called "When Love Hurts"
At Step Forward Health Society, we believe that every woman deserves safety, dignity, and a life free from abuse. That’s why we’re delighted to announce the launch of our latest program cohort called When Love Hurts. This online program provides vital support and education for women who have experienced abuse in their intimate relationships, helping them understand past pain, connect with other women who share their experiences, and build a path forward.
A Growing Community of Support
Since launching last month, eleven women have attended this program. Women join from communities across British Columbia: Delta, Ladner, Langley, Chilliwack, Squamish, and more. Through a structured yet compassionate approach, these participants are gaining crucial insights into the dynamics of abuse and learning that they don’t need to process their trauma alone.
Understanding the Patterns of Abuse
Over the past few weeks, we have explored key topics such as:
The Cycle of Abuse: How patterns of violence and manipulation can create confusion and entrapment.
The Window of Tolerance: Understanding emotional regulation and how trauma affects the nervous system.
The Power and Control Wheel: How different forms of abuse—emotional, financial, psychological, and physical—operate within relationships.
Sexual Abuse in Intimate Relationships: Addressing an often-overlooked but deeply impactful aspect of abuse.
These conversations have been invaluable, giving participants the necessary language to name their experiences while also fostering a sense of validation and empowerment.
Breaking Isolation, Building Connections
One of the most meaningful aspects of When Love Hurts is the ability for women to connect with others who truly understand. Many participants have expressed how powerful it is to be in a space where they feel heard and believed without fear of judgment. These connections help shatter the isolation created by abuse, providing a community of mutual support and healing in its place.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Support
We are incredibly grateful for the funding that has allowed us to launch this cohort, and we are already working on creating a second group to extend support to even more women. As awareness of the When Love Hurts program grows, we plan to continue expanding access to this critical resource, ensuring that women in our communities have the tools and support they need to reclaim their lives.
Step Forward Health is grateful to First West Foundation for its seed funding, which enabled the program to be piloted. A second cohort of When Love Hurts will run later in the year—we are taking referrals now!
If you or someone you know could benefit from this program, please visit this page for more information on upcoming sessions and resources.
Together, we are taking steps forward—toward healing, empowerment, and a future free from violence.
Read more in the Delta Optimist and the North Delta Reporter.