If you are interested in our counseling services or more information about our services, please contact our intake coordinator at bfriedlander@ywca-neny.org or via phone at 518-418-6912. 

If you are in imminent danger, please call 911.

If you would like to talk to someone on the domestic violence hotline or are seeking shelter, please call
518-374-3386.

Counseling Services

YWCA NENY’s counseling program offers free trauma-informed individual and group domestic violence counseling in a confidential setting. We offer support and empowerment groups integrated within the community as well as at our main campus each week.

We also offer economic empowerment counseling, promoting financial independence and self-sufficiency while in a counseling-like-private setting. These counselors have specialized training in career readiness, credit counseling, continuing education, workforce development, and community resources available to gain income or experience in a desired field. Additionally, YWCA NENY has a professional clothing closet on site to help you look your best!

In Fall 2019, YWCA NENY’s Family Violence Prevention Program began offering counseling for children (with or without a non-offending parent) who have been affected by domestic violence. This violence prevention program aims to prevent child abuse and stop the generational cycle of violence, allowing participants to work with a licensed counselor and participate in a mentorship program. More information about that program is below.

Please contact our Intake Counselor at 518-418-6912 to schedule an appointment or inquire about further information.

Flexible hours available. Virtual, phone, or in-person support is available. 

Women’s Empowerment Groups

In our safe and nurturing environment, you’ll have the opportunity to share and connect, build confidence, learn new skills and find support and empowerment!

For more information about groups, including current days and times for the open group, call Bonnie Friedlander at 518-418-6912.

Youth Violence Prevention Program

The Youth Violence Prevention Program provides programing to youth aged 11-24 by providing healthy relationship education groups to community agencies and schools, as well as individual counseling.

Here’s how we can help:

Healthy Relationship Group 
Age 13+ / 6-week groups addressing: 

• Healthy/unhealthy behaviors
• Boundaries & Enforcement
• Abuse, red & Green flags
• Consent
• Self-love & self-care
• Digital abuse
• Safety planning

Coaching Boys Into Men Program:

FUTURES’ Coaching Boys into Men (CBIM) program leverages the power of sports by providing high school athletic coaches with the resources they need to promote respectful behavior among their players and help prevent relationship abuse, harassment, and sexual assault. For more than a decade, the program has been implemented in communities across the U.S. and around the world. From Sacramento and Dallas, to India and South Africa, the program’s messages have proven universal. 

The CBIM curriculum consists of a series of coach-to-athlete trainings that illustrate ways to model respect and promote healthy relationships. The CBIM card series instructs coaches on how to incorporate themes associated with teamwork, integrity, fair play, and respect into their daily practice and routine 

For more information on upcoming workshops or youth counseling services, please contact Sabrina Matis via phone at 518-986-1459 or via email at smatis@ywca-neny.org.

Human Trafficking Program

This program is a free, gender-inclusive counseling program for survivors of all ages who have experienced sex and/or labor trafficking.

Services Offered:

• Safety Planning
• Referrals to community agencies
  • Case management
  • Legal Assistance
  • Medical Assistance
  • Substance Use Assistance
• Referrals to YWCA programs
  • Housing
  • Safe Shelter
  • Economic Counseling
• Art Therapy
• Education & Outreach on Human Trafficking
• Any other avenues of assistance clients may need

For more information on this program, please click here or call Alex Thompson, LCSW, at 518-418-6910.

Woman’s Empowerment STRIVE

YW Empowerment STRIVE is specifically designed to support individuals who are navigating the challenges of the criminal justice system. This program focuses on building resilience and self-empowerment through the development of healthy relationships, goal setting, and effective coping skills. Empowerment Strive provides a safe, supportive setting where participants can gain the tools to have personal and professional growth. YW Strive recognizes the unique challenges faced by returning citizens and aims to help break down barriers to employment, offering opportunities for individuals to thrive, heal, and move forward with purpose. 

For more information, please click here or contact Farrah Foreman at 518-918-6737.

Virtual Support Group

This group covers a wide variety of issues including self-esteem, communication, problem-solving, goal setting, domestic violence, sexual assault, and other issues of importance to women.

For more information, please contact Bonnie Friedlander at 518-418-6912.