Hospice offers free eight-week grief and loss group

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LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Hospice Services of Lake County is beginning another series of meetings to help adults who have experienced the death of a loved one, either recently or in the past.

Recognizing there is not just a single way through grief, the Hospice Services’ bereavement program will present “The Journey of Grief,” a free, educational series.

The grief and loss group will meet once a week for eight weeks starting Jan. 20.

Hospice Services invites interested individuals to attend in person from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursdays at the bereavement center in Lakeport.

COVID precautions including masks will be required, and the group size will be limited.

To register for the group meetings or obtain additional information, call Jennifer Nystrom at 707-263-6222, Extension 130, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Group sessions are structured with combined instruction and discussion in a safe environment, facilitated by Bereavement Services Manager Kathleen Bradley and Bereavement Counselor Jennifer Nystrom.

“In our world today, we are being challenged by losses of all kinds. In addition to these, many of us are trying to also navigate grief due to the death of a loved one. In our groups, we companion and support each other as we attempt to find our footing and a new normal,” said Bradley. “During the weekly group sessions, education will be provided about grief, mourning, and what is ‘normal’ as well as support toward healing.”

Weekly topics are presented in a meaningful sequence, so attendance at all sessions is essential. Examples of topics covered in groups include setting intentions to heal, dispelling misconceptions about grief, exploring personal feelings of loss, seeking resolution, and self-care.

Hospice Services reminds individuals they do not have to navigate grief and loss alone.

“Often, when we lose a loved one, we don’t know where to turn for emotional support,” said Bradley. “Additionally, during these uncertain times, Lake County residents are coping with multiple losses and stress related to natural disasters and COVID-19, topped off by the sense of isolation as we refrain from our normal social rituals. The ‘Journey of Grief’ sessions are designed to help individuals through the loss.”

Hospice Services of Lake County provides high quality medical, emotional and spiritual care to help patients and their families navigate their end-of-life journeys. For more information, call Hospice Services of Lake County, 707-263-6222. Visit the organization’s website at www.lakecountyhospice.org.

Janine Smith-Citron is director of Development for Hospice Services of Lake County.