Together in Grief
by Debbie Vallandingham, LMSW-ACSW
Angela Hospice Bereavement Manager
A loss brings a wide variety of emotions. As we continue without our loved one, we need a support system to help us move forward. Grief support groups allow individuals the opportunity to learn about the grief process and to benefit from talking with others. Some of these benefits include:
A Feeling of Belonging. Sometimes, in the middle of grief, it is easy to become disengaged from other people. It may feel as if nobody understands what we’re going through. In a group, you will feel less isolated as you hear the stories of others who are facing similar challenges.
Finding a New Perspective. Being in a group setting allows you to hear the views of others who may be able to see your situation differently. Whether it’s other participants or the group facilitator, you will be exposed to people who see their situation (and yours) from a different lens. When the group shares, you will hear honest views and different frames of reference.
Being in a Safe Place. One benefit of group counseling is that it provides an opportunity for attendees to express their beliefs and opinions is a protected environment. All participants can share their views without ridicule, disrespect, or a fear of retaliation.
Giving Back by Helping Others. At the same time you are receiving support from others, you have the opportunity to give back and help others grow and learn. This sharing of emotions builds community and feelings of purpose.
Beginning the Journey: This group serves as an introduction to the grieving process, focusing on education and support for anyone experiencing a recent loss. It meets every Wednesday at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Living with Grief: This group is a peer support group for anyone who has experienced the death of a loved one. It is held on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Women’s Support Group: This group is dedicated to the experiences of women in grief. It is held every first and third Monday at 2 p.m.
Men’s Support Group: This group is dedicated to the experiences of men in grief. It is held the third Friday of every month at 2 p.m.
Loss of Spouse Support Group: This group brings together those who have experienced the loss of a spouse and is held the third Thursday of every month at 2 p.m.
Grieving Parents Support Group: This group connects parents who have experienced the unthinkable, the loss of a child. This group meets the third Monday of every month at 6 p.m.
Music Therapy Group for Kids: This group helps children find an outlet in music to work through their grief in an uplifting way. This group meets on the third Tuesday of every month at 5 p.m., a little earlier for our younger attendees.
Healing After a Loved One’s Suicide: This group provides a safe environment for discussion, support, and education regarding grief and support for those left behind after suicide. Sessions take place monthly on the third Thursday at 6 p.m.
All of the grief support groups meet at Angela Hospice at 14100 Newburgh Road, Livonia, and are absolutely free of charge. All are welcome to drop in, no registration necessary. Groups are not held on major holidays. During the winter months, keep an eye out for school closings. If Livonia Public Schools are closed, groups are canceled for that day.
Angela Hospice Bereavement Manager
A loss brings a wide variety of emotions. As we continue without our loved one, we need a support system to help us move forward. Grief support groups allow individuals the opportunity to learn about the grief process and to benefit from talking with others. Some of these benefits include:A Feeling of Belonging. Sometimes, in the middle of grief, it is easy to become disengaged from other people. It may feel as if nobody understands what we’re going through. In a group, you will feel less isolated as you hear the stories of others who are facing similar challenges.
Finding a New Perspective. Being in a group setting allows you to hear the views of others who may be able to see your situation differently. Whether it’s other participants or the group facilitator, you will be exposed to people who see their situation (and yours) from a different lens. When the group shares, you will hear honest views and different frames of reference.
Being in a Safe Place. One benefit of group counseling is that it provides an opportunity for attendees to express their beliefs and opinions is a protected environment. All participants can share their views without ridicule, disrespect, or a fear of retaliation.
Giving Back by Helping Others. At the same time you are receiving support from others, you have the opportunity to give back and help others grow and learn. This sharing of emotions builds community and feelings of purpose.
Angela Hospice provides a wide variety of groups that can help you to find your way through this challenging situation. Our group support offerings include:
Beginning the Journey: This group serves as an introduction to the grieving process, focusing on education and support for anyone experiencing a recent loss. It meets every Wednesday at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Living with Grief: This group is a peer support group for anyone who has experienced the death of a loved one. It is held on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Women’s Support Group: This group is dedicated to the experiences of women in grief. It is held every first and third Monday at 2 p.m.
Men’s Support Group: This group is dedicated to the experiences of men in grief. It is held the third Friday of every month at 2 p.m.
Loss of Spouse Support Group: This group brings together those who have experienced the loss of a spouse and is held the third Thursday of every month at 2 p.m.
Grieving Parents Support Group: This group connects parents who have experienced the unthinkable, the loss of a child. This group meets the third Monday of every month at 6 p.m.
Music Therapy Group for Kids: This group helps children find an outlet in music to work through their grief in an uplifting way. This group meets on the third Tuesday of every month at 5 p.m., a little earlier for our younger attendees.
Healing After a Loved One’s Suicide: This group provides a safe environment for discussion, support, and education regarding grief and support for those left behind after suicide. Sessions take place monthly on the third Thursday at 6 p.m.
All of the grief support groups meet at Angela Hospice at 14100 Newburgh Road, Livonia, and are absolutely free of charge. All are welcome to drop in, no registration necessary. Groups are not held on major holidays. During the winter months, keep an eye out for school closings. If Livonia Public Schools are closed, groups are canceled for that day.
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