Family Counselling Centre of Cambridge & North Dumfries

The Family Counselling Centre of Cambridge & North Dumfries (FCC), operating under the name Porchlight Counselling & Addiction Services, is a Canadian nonprofit organization providing mental health and addiction support services to the Cambridge and North Dumfries community in Ontario. Established in 1940 in response to the needs of families affected by World War II, FCC has evolved into a comprehensive agency focused on person-centered counselling and addiction recovery services[5][1].

History and Mission
Originally founded to support families grieving losses due to the war, FCC has maintained a commitment to flexible, client-focused care. The organization’s mission centers on creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals and families can receive confidential counselling to promote emotional well-being and recovery in the Waterloo Regional Municipality.

Services
FCC offers a broad range of professional counselling services for individuals of all ages, beginning from six years old and up, addressing issues such as family stress, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, abuse, anger management, self-esteem, communication difficulties, relationship challenges, and domestic violence[2][3]. They employ over 15 trained and certified counsellors and provide support through individual sessions, group therapy, and community programming.

In addition to counselling, FCC offers addiction services characterized as “community case management,” focusing particularly on populations experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. This includes coordinating clients’ recovery journeys, facilitating access to detox programs across Ontario, and providing transportation to these services. FCC also operates transitional homes to support individuals post-residential treatment, helping prevent relapse by fostering life skills development through social enterprise initiatives like Harvesting Hope, which teaches residents skills by making and selling food products such as jams and pies[5].

Programs
Among notable programs is the “Partner Assault Response Program,” which works with domestic violence offenders on issues such as anger management, demonstrating FCC’s commitment to addressing complex social challenges through education and rehabilitation[5]. The agency also integrates evidence-based approaches including art therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and mindfulness techniques to enhance treatment outcomes[3].

Access and Fees
FCC embraces accessibility through a "Choose Your Rate" fee structure, allowing clients to select counselling fees based on their financial capacity, with some programs subsidized by community funders and government support. Services are available in English and can be accessed via in-person, virtual, or phone appointments, accommodating client preferences and needs[2][3].

Community Impact
As a registered charity, the organization is supported by community partnerships and health care referrals, including services to recipients of the Ontario Disability Support Program and individuals impacted by violence against women. FCC’s ongoing dedication to community well-being is reflected in initiatives that foster resilience and social connection across the region[5].

Note: Family Counselling Centre of Cambridge & North Dumfries is registered under Business Number 107376121RR0001 and operates the website FCCCND.COM under the name Porchlight Counselling & Addiction Services.

[1] https://fcccnd.com [2] https://fcccnd.com/counselling [3] https://www.ementalhealth.ca/index.php?ID=17751&m=record [4] https://porchlightcnd.org/contact-us [5] https://www.uwaywrc.ca/united-way-charity-spotlight-family-counselling-centre-of-cambridge-and-north-dumfries/