Details & FAQs
What's so special about this group?
As a young widow, Andrea recognized the need for secular therapeutic groups specific to this type of loss. She created a curriculum that addresses the unique needs and issues widowed people face, which means this group is created and facilitated by a peer and an emerging mental health professional. It includes psychoeducation about grief, loss, and self-care, a trauma-informed, holistic, and positive approach to healing and developing tools to thrive, building a life post loss, addressing existential issues, and sharing information about additional resources. Since the loss of a spouse or partner is extremely isolating, this format also offers an opportunity to share stories, exchange ideas through discussions, and build connections with a supportive community who understands.
How soon after my loss should I sign up?
While you can sign up for this program any time following your loss, it may be best to give yourself a few weeks to move through the initial shock. During this time it is important to take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. These groups are also appropriate for those who are many years post loss.
What other types of ARROW grief support groups are offered?
Support groups for spouse/partner loss are the only ones currently offered; however, more groups and/or workshops will be added in the future (young widowed parents, adolescents grieving a parent/guardian, etc.), and potentially virtual options as well. Please check back for more offerings.
How long is an ARROW grief support group program?
Each group is 10 consecutive weeks in duration. When there is a missed week due to scheduling conflicts with holidays and other special circumstances, it will be noted in the registration description.
Are drop-ins allowed to participate?
No. These support groups are closed groups, meaning only the participants who have registered for the program are admitted into the weekly sessions.
How many other participants will there be in the group?
Participation is limited to 8-10 people, not including the facilitator(s), to ensure an intimate environment where meaningful sharing can occur.
What can I expect during the sessions?
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Each meeting is 90 minutes in duration
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The very first session will be focused on reviewing the Group Guidelines, an introduction to the journal we will be using for the program, and an opportunity for all to introduce themselves and share their stories of loss
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Each session: begins with a guided breathing exercise, includes some education, group discussions, and concludes with a brief journaling task to be completed between sessions (each session has a similar flow)
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Sessions are topic focused and structured in a way that builds on content from the previous week
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You are not obligated to share any details you are not comfortable sharing
Will these groups be depressing?
The death of a significant other is traumatic and already depressing! Talking about topics that stir up uncomfortable emotions is never easy, but it's the best way to process what you're going through and a necessary step towards healing. You will be in a safe, compassionate environment with others who understand- ideal for healing trauma. As mentioned before, you are not obligated to share details you are uncomfortable sharing; however, it helps initiate healing and offers validation to others who identify with you which helps them, too. Of course there will be some tears, but there is also laughter and lightheartedness. This group balances the tough stuff with humor, inspiration, and positive tools for learning to thrive post loss. What you get out of the group is what you choose to receive.
How do I get a journal for the program?
Some Topics We Cover:
Understanding Grief
Typical Grief Reactions
Self-Care Strategies
Journaling
Mind/Body/Spirit
Rediscovering Yourself
Milestones, Holidays, etc.
Identifying Social Supports
Secondary Losses
Linking Objects
Continuing Bonds
Humor
Meaning Making
Unfinished Business
Additional Resources
Regrets & Guilt
Love & Forgiveness
Identity Shifts
Patience
Integration
Can I participate in the program more than once?
If space is still available after first-time participants have registered, you may register again if it has been at least one year from the last time you participated. You may find your perspective changes as you move through grief, and participating at different points can offer new insights. However, any sooner than one year from your last participation may feel redundant.
What is the cost of the program?
Given the unique nature of this support group, there is a one-time registration fee of $150 for the 10 week program. If you are unable to afford this fee, please contact andrearowwebsite@gmail.com to discuss payment options.
What is the refund/cancellation policy?
A full refund may be issued 72 hours prior to the start date of the group. After 72 hours, there is an option to transfer your registration funds to another program within the calendar year, or to sponsor the registration for someone who is unable to afford it.
Is it okay to miss a session?
Although it is ideal to attend every session, it is understandable that life happens. Any handouts you missed that day will be saved and given to you upon your return. Please try to schedule any appointments around the dates and times of our sessions to avoid missing out on something important. Every session is valuable. Of course if you are ill, please stay home and pamper yourself.
Should I still see a mental health professional if I attend a group?
Participating in a support group is extremely valuable, but does not replace the benefits of working one on one with a counselor or therapist. If you are already working with a mental health professional, please let them know if you participate in this group.
What if I still have additional questions?
Any additional questions can be directed to Andrea at andrearowwebsite@gmail.com.