Individual and group counseling is available to anyone in the community who is facing or grieving a loss. A safe, confidential environment allows the fear and sorrow of dying and grieving to be expressed and healed. Hospice counseling hopes to alleviate the social isolation and fear that terminal illness can create and to provide understanding of the stress of caring for a dying loved one. As always, hospice counseling seeks to maintain quality of life for all persons involved. 

2006 SUPPORT GROUPS Pre-registration required for all group sessions, see contact information below NEWLY BEREAVED GROUP This is a 4-week session for people in the early weeks and months of grief to provide support through sharing with others. The group will also provide educational and supportive information on the process of grieving. GOING THROUGH GRIEF GROUP This session will meet for 6 weeks and is for people who have experienced a loss within the last year. The group’s focus will be to nurture understanding and growth while providing opportunities to explore feelings through art and writing. SPANISH SPEAKING BEREAVEMENT GROUPS-ONGOING GRUPOS PARA QUIENES ESTAN EN LUTO Por favor llame a Mario Cepeda, Consejero Espiritual, 805-690-6272

NEW BEGINNINGS
This is an 8-week group for people who have experienced a loss at least one year ago.  We will explore the possibility for personal growth as we continue to adapt to life after loss.

HOPE & HEALING THROUGH CREATIVE EXPRESSION

Sharing memories and nurturing hope for the future.  6 week session.  Call number below for dates, times and location

MEN IN GRIEF - ASSISTING MEN ON THEIR JOURNEY OF HEALING

This session is designed to assist men on their journey of healing.  Call Jim Hil, LCSW for more information 805 965 5555 x421

MEMORIES & HONOR - SAYING GOODBYE TO A PARENT
This session will meet for 6 weeks to focus on the loss of a parent as an adult child. We will offer education and support as we validate this unique relationship.  Mondays, 6-7:30pm September 18-October 30, 2nd Floor boardroom, Visiting Nurse and Hospice Care.

ANNUAL REMEMBRANCE SERVICE
“The Ritual of the Roses and Candle Lighting Ceremony” takes place each spring. This special community event honors the lives of all our loved ones who have died. Remembering our losses together creates the opportunity to find comfort and healing.  The next remembrance service will take place April 22, 2007.  Call Michelle Cervantez, Associative Coordinator of Volunteers, at 690-6245 for more information.

HEALING THE HEART - LOSS OF A LIFE PARTNER
The session will meet for 6 weeks to focus on the unique loss of a wife, husband, or life partner.  Mondays, 10-11:30am, February 5-March 12, contact Bereavement Coordinators to register.

ANNUAL ‘ANGELS AMONG US’ CEREMONY
The annual event is an opportunity to come together at the winter holidays to remember the loved ones we have lost.  This tree lighting ceremony gives light to the memories of loved ones and the celebration brings together those who are grieving to share in the ritual that provides support, expression of feelings, and love.  The next Angels Among Us will be in December of 2007.  Contact Pat Snyder, 690-6222 for more information.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED FOR ALL GROUP SESSIONS.

Call Bereavement Coordinator, Elizabeth Giele, MSW, at
805-690-6298 for Bereavement Counseling and information on support groups.
There is no charge for bereavement support services.
Donations are always appreciated.