Loss and grief are some of the only universal human experiences, but even though everyone will experience them none of us will go through them in the same way. In this session participants will focus on identifying the various forms of loss we can experience and the variability of grief responses we use to cope. Through self-reflection, stories and discussion we will gain a broader understanding of loss and grief as well as learn strategies for supporting individuals through grief and towards healing.

Objectives:

• Identify various forms of loss including primary/secondary/tertiary losses, ambiguous loss, and disenfranchised loss
• Discuss the spectrum of grief responses, focusing on the differences among children, youth, andadults
• Explore developmentally appropriate responses and support for grieving individuals