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Group program

Newcomer Support Group in Edmonton: Settlement, Career and System Navigation

A culturally safe group for South Asian newcomers and refugees adjusting to life in Canada. Get practical guidance on settlement, careers and Canadian systems, and support from people who understand what you are going through.

A South Asian mother and adult daughter hugging after a difficult conversation

Registeredclinical social worker

In personor online across Alberta

MultilingualEnglish, Hindi, Nepali, Punjabi, Urdu

Quick answer

What is the newcomer support group?

This group supports South Asian newcomers, international students, temporary workers and refugees through the stress of starting over in Canada. Each session mixes practical information, such as career planning and how health care, schools and legal systems work, with time to talk about the emotional side of settlement: loneliness, pressure, family changes and worry about the future.

Eligible refugees and refugee claimants with IFHP coverage can ask about no-cost options, and a sliding scale is available case by case.

At a glance

  • Who it is for: South Asian newcomers, international students, temporary workers and refugees
  • Languages: Hindi, Punjabi, Nepali and Urdu
  • Meets: Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. Contact us for current times
  • Fee: $80 to $120 per session. Sliding scale available case by case

What we cover

Topics in the newcomer group

Topics follow what members need most. Common themes include:

Settlement challenges

Housing, money pressure, culture shock and building a routine in a new city.

Career planning

Credential recognition, job search, workplace culture and coping with underemployment.

Navigating systems

How health care, mental health services, schools and legal processes work in Alberta.

Family changes

Shifting roles, parenting in a new culture and staying connected with family back home.

Stress and wellbeing

CBT tools for worry, low mood and sleep during a big transition.

Building community

Making connections, finding resources and supporting each other.

Frequently asked questions

No. The group is open to immigrants, permanent residents, international students, temporary workers and refugees.

No. We share general information and help you find the right services, but we do not give legal or immigration advice.

No. The group is confidential, and we do not share information with immigration authorities or employers without your consent, except where the law requires it.

Yes. Virtual attendance is available.

You can combine the group with individual immigrant and newcomer counselling.

Take the first step

Ask about the newcomer group

Send a request and we will contact you with the next session times and fees, or to talk about IFHP and sliding scale options.

587-372-3143
contact@disha.ca
3818A 97 St NW #203, Edmonton, AB T6E 6N2

In crisis? Call or text 9-8-8, or dial 911. This form is not monitored around the clock.

Request information


Prefer to pick a time yourself? Book an appointment on Jane App