Group Format/Structure

Josie’s Place offers 90 minute evening programs twice a month for bereaved families. Trained facilitators create a safe environment to support the grieving process.

Adults, teens and children groups meet concurrently.
A parent’s group meets with 1-2 facilitators.
A children’s group, with a maximum of 16 children, meets with facilitators (1:2 facilitator/child ratio).
A teen group with a maximum of 12 meets with two facilitators.

Children’s and Teen Groups
 
In "talking circles" participants tell their stories of loss, recall memories, and express feelings associated with grief. Topics related to loss and activities such as art projects, letter writing, and dramatic play allow participants to explore, express and share their grief in peer group settings. Free time includes games and play of the child's choice, and allows them to take time out from their grief or to let off some steam.

Adult Group
  
Parents/caregivers of the bereaved children and teens meet concurrently. Group members receive information on how children grieve and how to support them. The Adult Group format also provides an opportunity for parents to express their own grief through discussion and creative expression activities.