All our services are confidential, free, and open to women, adolescents, and non-binary people from the time they start high school. You do not need to file a complaint to access our services.
Have You Experienced Sexual Violence?
Break the silence.
Sexual violence is never the victim’s fault. At CALACS, you’ll find a space to identify your needs, achieve personal and social goals, find concrete ways to alleviate your suffering, overcome the consequences of your experiences, and regain control of your life.
We understand that seeking help can be challenging and emotional. Rest assured, you won’t be alone in this process. We offer services tailored to your needs. When you’re ready, CALACS La Vigie staff will be here for you. It’s never too late to ask for help.
450 371-4222
Call us!
Emergency services
1 888 933-9007
The provincial Info-aide violence sexuelle line provides listening, support, and information to anyone affected by sexual violence.
Confidential
Free and bilingual
Available 24/7
Individual meetings
For minors
Minors (under 18) requesting help can access up to 10 individual sessions, each lasting one hour. Sessions occur weekly or bi-weekly, based on your needs and the counselor’s availability. Meetings can be held at your school if needed.
For adults
Adults (18 years and older) requesting help can access up to 10 individual sessions, each lasting one hour. Sessions occur weekly or bi-weekly, based on your needs and the counselor’s availability. In exceptional cases, meetings can be arranged at a location closer to your home.
Support groups and thematic groups
Adults (18 years and older) requesting help can access a support group for up to 5 sessions, each lasting three hours. Sessions are held bi-weekly, during the day and/or evening. The support group aims to break isolation and build a network of mutual aid and support. It consists of 5 to 8 participants, accompanied by a counselor.
Thematic group
Adults (18 years and older) requesting help can access a thematic group consisting of 5 sessions, each lasting 2.5 hours. Sessions are held bi-weekly, during the day and/or evening. The thematic group allows participants to reflect on themes related to sexual violence and their personal experiences. To join this group, individuals must have previously engaged with CALACS La Vigie, though exceptions may apply. The group includes 5 to 8 participants and is facilitated by a pair of counselors.
Judicial and medical accompaniment
A common question when it comes to sexual violence is: “Should I file a complaint?” The most crucial factor to consider is that the decision lies with the survivor. Although well-meaning, loved ones might try to influence the decision. It’s essential that the survivor makes this choice independently and takes the necessary time to reach an informed decision. In the case of sexual violence, there is no time limit for lodging a complaint. So it is never too late to move forward. The judicial process is lengthy and demanding, involving many steps. At CALACS, workers will neither encourage nor discourage a victim to file a complaint. They provide information and support throughout the legal process, from start to finish.
If you seek information or judicial accompaniment, or medical support related to sexual assault, we are here for you, without judgment, and at your own pace.
Telephone support and listening
During opening hours, you can receive telephone support and listening from an on-duty counselor. The service is available Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Referrals to other organizations
If CALACS is unable to meet your needs, we will gladly refer you to services that can. Our counselors regularly make referrals and are well-acquainted with the services available to the community.
Recently a Victim of Sexual Assault?
If you have concerns about your overall health, legal procedures, or need emotional support urgently, there is a network of designated centers across Quebec offering 24/7 services to sexual assault victims. Located in hospitals, CLSCs, or dispensaries, these centers provide medical and psychosocial assistance to victims of all ages. These services are provided by a medicosocial team including psychosocial counsellors, nurses and doctors trained to help victims of sexual assault. Victims assaulted within the last 5 days are received as emergencies. Those assaulted 6 days to 6 months prior are seen by appointment or emergency.
*In the area served by CALACS La Vigie, the designated center is at Hôpital du Suroît: 150, rue Saint-Thomas, Salaberry-de-Valleyfield QC J6T 6C1.
Source: www.agressionsexuellemontreal.ca
