Please note, this story has triggering language.

On September 22, 2026, the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO), along with 19 other health regulatory colleges, hosted a webinar for registrants on intimate partner violence (IPV) and intimate partner homicide involving firearms. The webinar featured subject matter experts from various professional backgrounds who shared valuable information about IPV.

Some of the highlights discussed were:

• Anyone can experience intimate partner violence, regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, age, or faith.
• IPV occurs when a current or former intimate partner causes physical, sexual, or psychological harm. This may include physical aggression, sexual coercion, psychological abuse, or controlling behaviours.
• IPV generally involves a pattern of power and control exercised by the abuser over the victim.
• IPV can take different forms over time and may increase in frequency or severity especially at the time of separation. It can include emotional, psychological, verbal, spiritual, family, and financial abuse, as well as neglect and threats to harm children, other family members, or pets.
• IPV is not always obvious. Signs may include unexplained injuries, anxiety, frequent health care visits, a partner answering questions on behalf of the victim, or concerns related to finances, children, or personal safety.

The panel also discussed the importance of recognizing the signs of IPV and knowing how to respond appropriately:

• Professionals and community organizations should be equipped to recognize warning signs and risk factors of IPV and know how to respond and make appropriate referrals.
• When assessing safety concerns, such as threats, stalking, strangulation, access to weapons, or fear of going home, it is recommended to create a safe space for conversation, and use a trauma-informed, person-centred approach. This includes letting victims know they are believed and reassuring them that the abuse is not their fault.

This session supported recommendations from the 2022–2023 Domestic Violence Death Review Committee Annual Report.

Watch the recorded session and download the Understanding Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) Resource Package.