Frequently Asked Questions

No, all groups are provided at no charge.

Please contact the group counselor listed to register for the upcoming group – whether in-person or online.

After registering with the group counselor, you will receive a Zoom link to click on and participate at the time of the group. It is best to use a home computer, laptop, or tablet with internet capability for best viewing, sound, and camera. A quiet and private setting is required since we want to keep discussions confidential with minimal distractions.

In addition to the group benefits listed, many people who attend a support group find that it has been a very positive and valuable experience. The information shared by both the group counselor and other bereaved members have provided validation, resources, insights, grief education, understanding, and a social connection during a time that can feel very uncertain and lonely. Everyone gets an opportunity to share if they wish.

No, our grief groups are open to the entire community. Those who have experienced a recent death that was not connected to hospice care are always welcome. It is important to talk with the group counselor about which group is the right one for you.

Friends or loved ones may have suggested trying a support group to help with your grief. You may be considering it for yourself as well. You may feel that your support system or connection to family and friends is not readily available. It may be a challenge to return to a routine or stay engaged in hobbies, interests, or social interactions. You may have strong feelings of anxiety, sadness, anger, guilt, and/or loneliness that are impacting your day-to-day life. Some describe this feeling as being “stuck.” Any of these indicators are a sign that a support group may help.

This will be different for everyone since your grief journey is yours alone. Groups are typically designed to support people who have experienced loss in the past year. After time, you may find that you have developed the coping skills and tools you need. The pain does not feel as raw and intense as it was before. You may be handling situations with greater ease, enjoying a more established routine, and finding that you can rely on your support system. You may also notice that when new members join the group, you can see the difference from where you were early in your grief journey to where you are now.

General Information

Prior to attending any group, you will be asked to complete a Group Information Form. This provides our counselor with information to best understand how to help you. Each person and group is unique, but we suggest you try attending at least three groups before confirming your decision to continue. Group meetings typically begin with announcements and a reminder of our participation guidelines. The counselor provides helpful information about the group process. Participants will be invited to share what they have been feeling, thinking, and doing. No one is required to talk, but everyone is encouraged to participate. Many times, just listening is helpful. Sometimes participants cry – and even laugh! The group provides an environment that is supportive and encouraging.

Benefits

With group meetings you may:

  • Find that you are helping others as you receive support
  • Break down your feelings of isolation
  • Discover that you have thoughts and feelings similar to others
  • Have a quiet space to share your loss without being judged
  • Share about your loss or caregiving with others who have had similar experiences
  • Discover new insights into yourself
  • Develop or sharpen your own coping skills
  • Create social bonds that continue beyond the support group

Expectations

We ask that everyone:

  • Maintain confidentiality
  • Arrive on time and place phone on silent to avoid distractions
  • Refrain from side conversations while another participant is sharing
  • Feel free to share what has helped you in your journey, but avoid giving advice
  • Accept other’s differences and where they are in their journey

Moving On

While the support groups are open-ended, after a period of time, you may find that you’ve acquired the tools to move forward in your journey. The group may no longer be necessary for you. At that time, both you and your counselor can discuss options for the future.

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