Welcome to

Forward House

This house gives me a sense of belonging and connection to people which is super important for my well-being. I’m constantly growing and moving forward one step at a time.
— Anonymous

Our Programs and Services

Here at Forward House we understand the importance of ongoing education and support for individuals living with mental health challenges, those in addiction recovery, and their loved ones. That’s why we offer a range of non-clinical educational and group programs throughout the year. These programs are designed to provide valuable information, foster personal growth and create a supportive environment where participants can learn and grow together.

Some of the programs include:

Recovery Program

Professional peer facilitated workshops and support groups focusing on recovery from substance use and addiction challenges while nurturing mental wellness.

Our Recovery Program currently offers three Group Programs:  a weekly Men’s Group, a weekly Women’s Group and the Families Care Group.

The Women's Group meets at Forward House on Wednesdays from 6:30-8:00 pm. This is a therapeutic group which includes a mindfulness / DBT / CBT exercise, a check-in and then a dialogue on any presenting issue(s) where group support would be welcomed.  It is an interpersonal group, with components of psychoeducation.  The overall goal is to help support individuals who are taking to action to develop and maintain their wellbeing. 

Substance misuse, Disordered Eating, Body Image, Invasive thoughts, Rumination, Relationships, Self-care, Self-Esteem, Work and Finances are consistent topics.  

 The Men's Group meets at Forward House on Tuesdays from 6:30-8:00 pm.  This is a therapeutic recovery group with an initial check-in, moves to dialogue on any presenting issue(s) where group support would be welcomed, and closes with a group check-out. This is an interpersonal group for men taking action to change a harmful behavior and to maintain that change. We use a Person Centered approach with psychoeducation components to cultivate and guide discussions.  The overall goal is to help support individuals who are active in developing sobriety and maintaining wellbeing.  Substance misuse, Sexual disfunction, Relationships, Self-care, Self-Esteem, Work and Finances are consistent topics. 

Advocacy and Resources

Our Advocates are available to help community members who are experiencing mental health challenges and are needing information or support.

Recreation Programs

Our recreation program improves social bonds, promotes inclusion, reduces loneliness or isolation, strengthens social skills, builds self-esteem - and is a lot of fun!

Education and Group Programs

We offer a variety of educational and group programs throughout the year to support people living with a mental health challenge, in addiction recovery - or their loved ones.

Mental Health and Addiction Recovery Resources

A Special Acknowledgement...

More than 50% of Forward House funding comes from the Island Health Authority. We rely on the generous support of the community to cover our remaining needs. Join our family of supporters today and your gift will offer compassion and promote mental wellness.