Changing Ways

About Changing Ways

Changing Ways is a community organization located on Southdale Rd E in the White Oaks neighbourhood of London, Ontario. Serving the London-Middlesex, St. Thomas-Elgin, and Chatham-Kent regions, the agency provides alternatives for individuals wishing to end and take responsibility for abusive behaviour. They offer support to men and women who are emotionally, psychologically, verbally, sexually, and/or physically abusive towards their partners. The organization provides several specialized programs, including Women’s Programs, Men’s Programs, and Caring Dads. Specific offerings include the Being the Change Men’s Group, an eight-session program focused on non-abusive conflict resolution, and the Men’s Partner Assault Response (PAR) program, which is a component of Ontario’s Domestic Violence Court program for those mandated to attend. They also provide specialized counselling for victims and current partners, which includes risk assessment, safety planning, and referrals. Group topics often cover identifying abusive behaviours, respectful communication, and expressing feelings rather than acting them out. Founded in 1982 as a result of a research project and the efforts of two probation and parole officers, Changing Ways became an incorporated not-for-profit social service agency in 1986. The organization describes itself as a feminist model committed to eradicating woman abuse and changing the value systems that perpetuate inequality. It is a registered charitable organization and a safe, inclusive space for the 2SLBTQIA+ community and newcomers. The agency is led by Executive Director Amiel Ostrander and Director of Administration & Operations Rick Mulvaney. Interested individuals can attend an intake appointment lasting 30 to 60 minutes to be assigned a group start date. The Men’s Programs and PAR programs are offered on a sliding scale fee for service.