Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a reality in every community, and 2SLGBTQ+ (Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer, and other identities) communities are no exception. Survivors not only face the trauma of abuse but also unique barriers when seeking help: the fear of being outed, threats related to their gender identity or immigration status, and the risk of encountering homophobic or transphobic attitudes from service providers.

You deserve support that sees, respects, and understands every part of your identity. A "one-size-fits-all" approach doesn't work. This guide is a map to the organizations in Toronto that provide affirming, knowledgeable, and truly safe support for 2SLGBTQ+ survivors of violence.

These organizations are built by and for the 2SLGBTQ+ community, offering services that are rooted in lived experience.

• The 519: Located in the heart of the Church-Wellesley Village, The 519 is Toronto's most prominent 2SLGBTQ+ community centre and often the best place to start. They offer:

  • Free and low-cost counselling with therapists who understand queer and trans relationship dynamics.

  • Specialized trauma support programs.

  • Trans-specific programs and a dedicated Trans ID Clinic.

  • Referrals to a wide network of affirming services.

• Sherbourne Health: A leader in 2SLGBTQ+ health care in Toronto. While a full-service health centre, they have a robust mental health program that is deeply integrated with their other services. They offer:

  • Counselling and therapy from a queer- and trans-positive perspective.

  • Support groups and mental health workshops.

  • Expertise in trans health, ensuring that trans and non-binary individuals receive competent and respectful care.

When you need immediate help or a safe place to go, these resources are vital.

• Assaulted Women's Helpline (AWHL): While the name may sound specific, the AWHL provides inclusive service to people of all genders, including trans and non-binary individuals. Their trained counsellors can provide immediate crisis support and connect you with the most appropriate and affirming shelter options available in Toronto. Call them at 416-863-0511.

• LGBT YouthLine: A confidential, non-judgmental peer support service for 2SLGBTQ+ youth (up to age 29). While not exclusively an IPV crisis line, it is a safe space for young people to talk about unhealthy relationships, get support, and find referrals from peers with similar lived experiences.

• YMCA Sprott House: This is Toronto’s first transitional housing program for 2SLGBTQ+ youth (ages 16-24) who are experiencing homelessness, often as a result of family conflict or intimate partner violence.

The legal system can be a difficult and invalidating space. Getting legal advice from someone who understands 2SLGBTQ+ issues is crucial.

• The 519 Legal Clinic: Provides free legal services on a range of issues, including summary advice on family law (separation, custody, support) and immigration.

• Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic: Their services are explicitly trans-inclusive. They are experts in providing legal and counselling support to women and gender-diverse survivors of violence in family, criminal, and immigration law.

• Pro Bono Ontario: Offers a free legal advice hotline where you can be matched with a lawyer for a 30-minute consultation on a range of issues, including family law.

When you reach out to an organization not on this list, how can you tell if it’s truly a safe space?

• Inclusive Language: Does their website and intake form use gender-neutral language and have options for pronouns and gender identity beyond "male" and "female"?

• Visual Cues: Do they display a Progress Pride Flag or a "Safe Space" sticker? These are small but important signals.

• Ask Directly: You have the right to ask, "What kind of training has your staff received on supporting 2SLGBTQ+ survivors?" or "How do you ensure your services are safe and affirming for trans and non-binary people?" Their answer will tell you a lot.

You do not have to minimize parts of your identity to receive help. The right support will embrace all of who you are. The organizations on this list are here to provide a safe landing, a listening ear, and the expert guidance you need to move forward.

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Mainstream domestic violence services, while well-intentioned, may not understand the unique dynamics of abuse in queer and trans relationships. 2SLGBTQ+ survivors can face barriers like homophobia, transphobia, being outed by an abuser, or dealing with an abuser who is well-regarded in the community. Affirming services provide a safe space where a survivor's identity is understood and respected, and the support is tailored to their specific experiences and needs.

The 519, located on Church Street, is one of Toronto's most vital 2SLGBTQ+ community hubs. It offers a wide range of affirming programs, including counselling, anti-violence initiatives, and legal clinics. For survivors of domestic violence, it is a crucial resource for finding trauma-informed support from professionals who understand the specific context of abuse within 2SLGBTQ+ relationships.

Yes. While the shelter system is still evolving, there are options that are more inclusive. Some mainstream shelters have made efforts to become more affirming. Additionally, community organizations often have knowledge of safer, temporary housing solutions. The 519 and other queer community groups can be a key resource for navigating housing options and finding a placement where a survivor's gender identity and sexual orientation will be respected.

For legal support, the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic offers services to women and gender-diverse survivors of violence. The 519 also hosts legal clinics. When seeking a therapist, look for practitioners who explicitly state they are "2SLGBTQ+ affirming" and have experience with trauma and domestic violence. Directories like Psychology Today allow you to filter for therapists with these specializations.

For immediate, 24/7 support, you can call the Assaulted Women's Helpline (416-863-0511), which provides support to all women and gender-diverse people. Another excellent resource is the LGBT Youth Line, which offers peer support for youth under 29. In an emergency where you feel you are in immediate danger, always call 911.

For many 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, their "chosen family"—a close-knit network of friends and peers—is their primary support system. For survivors of domestic violence, this network is invaluable. Chosen family can provide emotional support, a temporary safe place to stay, and help in navigating resources. Community is a cornerstone of queer and trans resilience, and it's a vital part of the healing process after leaving an abusive relationship.