Getting Help

Rainbow Services

Rainbow Services provides counselling to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and transsexual people who are concerned about their use of drugs and alcohol. Our services are available to individuals with a variety of goals, including those who want to try to quit, cut down, or who would just like to gain more awareness about their drinking or drug use.

Our programs are specialized to take into account the unique needs and issues that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and transsexual people face.

Who we are

Rainbow Services is staffed by gay, lesbian, bisexual and straight professionals who are trained and experienced in counselling people with concerns about their use of alcohol and other drugs. We understand the issues that are specific to the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and transsexual people that may affect their alcohol and drug use. Our services are respectful and tailored to meet the needs of our communities.

What we offer

  • assessment and referrals
  • individual and group therapy
  • day and residential programs
  • weekly evening support groups
  • support for families and/or partners
  • couple counselling
  • relapse prevention
  • education on stress management, nutrition and leisure.


How it works

Individuals who are over the age of 18 can call one of the numbers given on this page. No referral is required. The first appointment is usually for an assessment interview. Here, an individual meets one-on-one with a therapist to examine the issues around his or her drug and alcohol use. The choice of counselling options is discussed and decided upon, and goals are established.

Depending on individual needs and preferences, clients are matched with individual, couple, and/or group counselling. Group counselling may take the form of weekly support groups or more intensive residential or day programs. Since each person is unique, we try to find the service, or combination of services, that fit individual needs. Some of our clients come for just a few sessions, while others benefit from a year-long mix of various types of services.

Our services are confidential and covered by OHIP. In-town, out-of-town and out-of-province clients are all welcome.

Programs and Services

Getting Started Groups

These groups are for LGBT clients who have had an assessment at CAMH. They are designed to help you to get motivated and develop skills to change your drug and alcohol use. You can participate in these groups while you wait for other programs or in conjunction with other programs. The groups are run by trained volunteers who receive support from therapists. Both groups involve discussion, peer support and films.

  • Gay/Bi Men's Getting Started
    Contact Christopher Hadden, 416-535-8501, ext 6784
  • LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Transsexual, Transgender) Getting Started
    Contact Lysena Bertoli, 416-535-8501, ext 7067


Upcoming Groups

  • 3 Week Day or Residential Programs are available every 8 weeks.  Contact the Clinic Head/Service Manager for specific program dates.
  • Ongoing weekly substance abuse groups for Gay/Bi Men are also available. Contact Christopher Hadden at 535-8501, ext 6784 for more info.
  • An ongoing weekly group for lesbian/bisexual/trans women is also available.  Contact Lysena Bertoli at 535-8501, ext 7067 for more info.
  • The Gay/Bi Men's Continuing Care group accepts clients on a regular basis. Prior treatment/addiction counseling required. Contact Matthias Kaay at 535-8501, ext 7066 for more info.

How to reach us

For further information, or to schedule an appointment, please call:

Jim Cullen

(416) 535-8501, ext. 6781
1-800-463-2338, extension 6781
Jim_Cullen@camh.net

Hours

Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Evening group sessions available

Locations

Rainbow Services
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
33 Russell Street
Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1

Rainbow Services
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
175 Brentcliffe Road
Toronto, Ontario M4G 3Z1

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