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Self-help groups

Support groups are a priority for QCPA, and are part of our ongoing commitment to supporting individuals living with chronic pain and their loved ones. This service is overseen by the Member Services Committee, mentored by the Board of Directors. We offer two types of support groups: virtual and in-person.

Consult the schedule

Find a support group you would like to join—a space where you can share your experiences with others!

Support groups are central to the QCPA’s mission to accompany individuals living with chronic pain and reduce their isolation, by providing a space specifically for them, where they can express themselves and connect with others experiencing similar challenges.

Support groups offer a caring and confidential space where you can freely express your feelings and share your concerns, and feel accepted.

The purpose of support groups is to foster mutual support, encouragement, and learning through one another’s experiences. There are also conferences and inspiring personal testimonies to help participants work toward their own goals.

 




Consult our schedule

Would you like to lead a support group?

The QCPA is looking for volunteer members to lead groups virtually or in person. 

There are several possible formats to choose from. As a group leader, your role will be to:

  • Prepare and present informative and engaging topics relevant to members
  • Facilitate dynamic group discussions, encouraging participation and ensuring that all voices are heard
  • Provide emotional support and share resources with participants
  • Create a safe, inclusive environment where participants can learn, share experiences and support each other

Experience is not required—anyone who is interested can apply.  You’ll receive training and support, as well as access to materials to facilitate meetings (topics, presentations, instructions, etc.).

Groups can start at any time during the year. The schedule is at your discretion. 

To apply, please contact us. We look forward to hearing from you!

Become a facilitator

Support, listening and empathy

The QCPA offers two types of groups: virtual or in-person.

Virtual groups

  • Groups with an unlimited number of participants, or
  • Closed groups of 6 to 12 participants
  • Ways to encourage discussion:
    • Presentation or conference followed by a question period
    • Discussion and sharing around a selected topic

In-person groups

  • Groups of 6 to 12 participants, or groups of up to 20 participants
  • Open or closed groups
  • Ways to encourage discussion:
    • Discussion and sharing around a selected topic
    • Sharing of personal successes and experiences

Formats and approaches for meetings

  • Optional individual action plan 
  • Verbal strategies to modify perspective, for example, thinking outside the box in problem solving:
    • Brainstorming
    • Identifying the problem to be solved
    • Exploring possible solutions
  • Using a topic of current interest or an online article as a discussion starter 
  • Randomly drawing a question or topic from a hat, or similar container 
  • Two suggested formats: presentation followed by a discussion period, or group discussion of a proposed topic
  • Presentation by speakers on varied, relevant topics
  • Round table or panel discussion

Organization of meetings

  • Participating members meet once or twice a month 
  • Meetings last between one to two hours 
  • In-person groups consist of 12 to 20 people
  • Virtual groups can be either unlimited or consist of between 10 and 20 participants

Location

In-person meetings are held in a public space, virtual meetings are on the Zoom platform.

A space in a community center, a MSSS rehabilitation center, a hospital, a CLSC, a municipal library, a restaurant, a drugstore, or elsewhere, can all be used for support group meetings, depending on availability. However, this space needs to be accessible to people with reduced mobility and allow for confidentiality.

What if the QCPA does not offer a support group in your area?
Contact us to add your name to our waiting list. A new group may be started near you if there are enough interested people.

Consult our schedule

Meeting schedule

Support group meeting schedules vary, from one to two meetings per month, and lasting from one to two hours each.

Information on the schedule is released at the beginning of each season on the QCPA website, and meetings for each month are also displayed.

Sessions

  • Fall:                     September to December
  • Winter/Spring:    January to June

Calendar

The QCPA now offers you the opportunity to participate in a virtual support group, either in a closed group or a province-wide group open to all members. Meetings are 1 ½ hours long.

To sign up by phone, contact the QCPA directly: 1-855-230-4198 or 514-230-4198

To participate by phone in a Zoom meeting:
1-438 809-7799  and enter the meeting ID that you received when you signed up.
(*6: Mute / Unmute | *9: Raise / Lower Hand)

Become a facilitator