Grief and Loss Training Available
In association with Living through Loss Counselling Society of BC, the Vancouver Center for Loss & Bereavement offers the following Grief and Loss Training for Professionals.
Facilitated Courses
Level 1 – The Basics of Grief and Loss - Facilitated
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About the Course
Level 1 facilitated, is an online course designed for professionals working in mental health, social services, healthcare practitioners, caregivers, support service workers, including but not limited to social workers, educators, school counselors, crisis workers, therapists, palliative care nurses, death doula’s, funeral directors/employees, or any individual who wants to explore bereavement issues and understand the impact of grief and loss.
The six-week six module course covers the following topics in grief and loss:
Module 1
Grief & Loss: The Basics
Introduction to grief & loss: the basics of bereavement- traditional & contemporary models of grief & loss
Module 2
Complex Bereavement
Complicated/Prolonged Grief & Traumatic Loss
Module 3
Special Issues in Complicated Grief & Traumatic Loss
Multiple Losses, Ambiguous Mourning, Disenfranchised Grief, Anticipatory Mourning. Impact of COVID loss, caring for family and friends with chronic or terminal related diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer, Parkinson’s and other related topics are discussed
Module 4
Homicide, Suicide, and Traumatic Death
In addition topics Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD), Drug & Alcohol Related Deaths are discussed
Module 5
Bereavement: Death of a Child, Death of Parent
Discussion of death in a family child, parent, grandparents, beloved family members & friends (including pet loss)
Module 6
Bereavement: Culture, Religion & Ritual
The impact of culture and religion on how we grieve and the importance of rituals in griefwork
- 30-36 hours of online class time
- 4 facilitated Zoom review sessions
- Facilitators available weekly in class
- 6-month access to course material post completion of Level 1
- Supplemental materials added throughout the year on new developments or topics in grief and loss, TEDx, Papers, Journal Articles and Tools
- Facilitators are experienced grief therapists and trainers
- A certificate awarded upon successful completion
Cost:
$595.00
*The on line course can be offered to organizations or groups on a customized basis to meet time frames outside of the class dates offered.
What course includes:
- Participants spend on average 30-36 hours working in the online classroom
- 4 facilitated Zoom review sessions –
- Facilitators provide weekly feedback to all participants on their work
- 6-month access to course material post completion of Level 1
- Supplemental materials added throughout the year on new developments or topics in grief and loss, TEDx, Papers, Journal Articles and Tools
- Facilitators are experienced grief therapists and trainers
- A certificate awarded upon successful completion
Upcoming Courses
Level 2 – Advanced Practices and Topics in Grief and Loss
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About the Course
Level 2 is a four week online professional training program designed for counsellors, therapists, social workers, school counsellors, crisis workers, palliative care nurses and hospice workers, funeral home employees, death doulas, or any individual who wants to continue their exploration of bereavement issues, strategies, and tools to assist their clients and/or communities where they live and serve.
Participants in Level 2 must have successfully completed Level 1 -The Basics, either in-class or on-line offering from Living through Loss Counselling within the past 5 years.
The course format consists of a live presentation by the course facilitator/senior therapist on an advanced topic each week. Live presentations are interactive with class participants via secure Zoom Meeting protocol.
Participants have access to weekly materials covered in each of the four modules with supplemental articles and research when germane to the topics covered.
Participants will be provided cases to review, analyze and present within the weekly Forum structure. Practice and role plays may be conducted during the weekly 2 hour zoom sessions contingent upon participants wants and needs to present their own case or one selected from the module material.
Pre-class start up each learner will be sent a survey on griever styles to complete. An overview of the styles and importance of understanding your own griever style will be presented in Week 1 along with a burnout questionnaire used as a baseline measurement for professionals in helping public domain occupations. This is part of the self-care component of the course.
Module 1:
Building connection with the griever. Styles of grief and the importance to the counselling relationship; tools to use to build connection; the physicality of grief
Module 2:
Effective Modalities and Analytics in working with a griever. Measurement Indices are presented and discussed; The Shear -16 step Complicated/Prolonged Grief Protocol, Traumatic Grief Modalities such as EMDR, Neurofeedback, Choice theory & the Basic Needs, are presented and discussed. Case presentation and the application of these modalities analytic tools are reviewed.
Module 3:
Special Issues in grief work. Understanding the criticality of secondary losses, Global grief, Eco-anxiety and climate and ecological grief and pandemic loss, death in the workplace, including critical incident debrief protocols with a focus on grief & loss.
Module 4:
Growth and Development in grief. A look at strategies and practices for working with longer term clients in their grief work. Case reviews and discussion on what growing in grief means to you and your clients.
- 20 hours of online class time
- 4 zoom sessions – 8 hours for case presentations, role plays and guest presentations
- Weekly office hours with facilitators
- Facilitators all grief therapists/trainers
- Class size increased by 25% to 12 participants/class
- A Certificate awarded upon successful completion of the training
Course Fee: $595.00
Upcoming Courses
How to Facilitate a 6 week Loss through Death Support Group
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About the Course
A two-week online course for any individual who wants to develop understanding and a method for facilitating a 6-week Loss through Death Group, in their organization, or community. This course has been modified to train both facilitating an in-person support group or online virtual support group. The material can be adapted to other loss support groups, not just a loss through death.
The online program is divided into two Modules presented each week by one of the Centre’s expert grief therapists/trainers. The format for the online course is a weekly Zoom meeting where the course facilitator provides an opportunity for course participants to ask questions for further understanding and deeper discussions of topics in grief and loss, specific to the type of loss through death the participant may be thinking to offer in their community. Participants go online to review weekly material, participate with other participants, and course facilitators in Forum questions and answers.
Introduction:
a 30-minute Zoom is scheduled on day one of the online class opening, to provide participants and facilitators a chance to introduce themselves, review the course expectations and answer any questions participants may have.
Module 1: Week 1
Covers a general introduction of concepts and approaches in grief and loss, review of models of grief, elements of an effective support group, an in-depth review of sessions 1, 2 & 3 of your six-week support group
Module 2: Week 2
Covers questions arising from Week 1 Forum discussions, in depth review of sessions 4, 5 & 6 of the six-week support group. Session six covers things to think about when you are in your last session with the group; rituals and practices and closing off activities are presented.
- 10-12 hours of online in-class time
- 3 facilitated Zoom Review Sessions
- Facilitators are experienced grief therapists and trainers
- A Certificate awarded upon successful completion
- Class size limited to 8
Cost:
$305.00 (includes a copy of the How-to Manual)
Upcoming Courses
How to Facilitate a 6 week Support Group for Caregivers
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About the Course
A two-week online course for any individual who wants to develop understanding and a method for facilitating a 6-week support group for individuals who have suffered the death of a loved one attributable to Alzheimer’s or a Dementia related disease.
The online program is divided into two Modules presented each week by one of the Centre’s expert therapists/trainers. The format for the online course is a 30-minute live presentation by the course facilitator at the start of each week. Participants go online to review weekly material and participate with other registrants and facilitators in Forum questions and answers.
Module 1: Week 1
30-minute live presentation- unique characteristics and aspects of deaths related to terminal illnesses, specifically Alzheimer and Dementia related diseases; general introduction of grief and loss, review of models of grief, elements of an effective support group, an in-depth review of sessions 1, 2 & 3 of your six-week support group
Module 2: Week 2
30-minute live presentation- covering questions arising from Week 1 Forum discussions, discussion on the uniqueness of protracted deaths; disenfranchised loss and an in-depth review of sessions 4, 5 & 6 of the six-week support group. Session 6 covers things to think about when you are in your last session with the group; some rituals and practices and closing off activities are presented.
Sessions are facilitated by a grief and loss therapist/trainer from the Centre.
A mix of delivery mediums are integrated in the online forums from video, audio, Skype when applicable to the class.
A Certificate will be awarded upon successful completion of the training.
- *Any or all our online courses can be offered to organizations or groups on a customized basis to meet time frames and training goals outside of the class dates advertised.
Cost:
$305.00 (includes a copy of the How-to Manual)
Upcoming Courses
Unlocking Compassion: Facilitating Non-Death Loss Support Groups
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About the Course
Are you a compassionate professional seeking to guide others through the intricate landscape of non-death losses? Join our three-week intensive course designed exclusively for facilitators like you. Whether you’re a counselor, social worker, or community leader, or interested individual, this program equips you with the tools and insights needed to create a safe haven for those navigating grief beyond death.
Course Highlights
- Understanding Non-Death Losses:
- Explore the diverse spectrum of non-death losses: divorce, job transitions, empty nest syndrome, relocation, loss of hopes and dreams, eco-anxiety and climate change effects, global atrocities, pandemics, wars, earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and more.
- Delve into the unique emotional dynamics associated with these losses.
- Group Dynamics and Facilitation Skills:
- Learn effective group facilitation techniques.
- Understand group stages, cohesion, and conflict resolution.
- Cultivate active listening and empathy.
- Creating a Supportive Environment:
- Craft a nurturing space where participants feel heard and validated.
- Foster connections among group members.
- Address cultural nuances and individual differences.
- Navigating Grief Beyond Death:
- Explore the intersection of non-death losses with existential questions.
- Help participants find meaning and purpose amidst their grief journey.
- Ethical Considerations:
- Understand boundaries, confidentiality, and self-care.
- Handle challenging situations with grace and professionalism.
Course Details:
- Duration: Three weeks – 3-2 ½ hour Zoom sessions Live with Facilitators in class
- Schedule: Virtual Classes each week on Wednesdays starting at 4:00 pm PST
- Investment: $405.00 plus Facilitator Manual Included.
- Certification: Upon completion, receive a certificate in Non-Death Loss Group Facilitation.
Why Choose Our Course?
- Expert Faculty: Our instructors are seasoned grief counselors with real-world experience.
- Interactive Learning: Engage in role-playing, case studies, and peer discussions.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow professionals in the field.
- Impactful Practice: Make a difference in the lives of those navigating non-death losses.
Upcoming Courses
Self- Directed Courses
Level 1 – The Basics of Grief and Loss - Self-Directed
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Level 1 self-directed, is an online course designed for professionals working in mental health, social services, healthcare practitioners, caregivers, support service workers, including but not limited to social workers, educators, school counselors, crisis workers, therapists, palliative care nurses, death doula’s, funeral directors/employees, or any individual who wants to explore bereavement issues and understand the impact of grief and loss.
The six module self-direct course over two months covers the following topics in grief and loss:
Module 1
Grief & Loss: The Basics
Introduction to grief & loss: the basics of bereavement- traditional & contemporary models of grief & loss
Module 2
Complex Bereavement
Complicated/Prolonged Grief & Traumatic Loss
Module 3
Special Issues in Complicated Grief & Traumatic Loss
Multiple Losses, Ambiguous Mourning, Disenfranchised Grief, Anticipatory Mourning. Impact of COVID loss, caring for family and friends with chronic or terminal related diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer, Parkinson’s and other related topics are discussed
Module 4
Homicide, Suicide, and Traumatic Death
In addition topics Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD), Drug & Alcohol Related Deaths are discussed
Module 5
Bereavement: Death of a Child, Death of Parent
Discussion of death in a family child, parent, grandparents, beloved family members & friends (including pet loss)
Module 6
Bereavement: Culture, Religion & Ritual
The impact of culture and religion on how we grieve and the importance of rituals in griefwork
Course Structure
- A grief therapist/facilitator monitors participants progression through the eight-week course. Feedback is given to the participant on quality of work and successful completion of each of the six modules. There is no exam for this course.
- Participants spend between 32-40 hours over the two month period completing the required questions and assignments for the six modules
- Supplemental materials added throughout the year on new developments or topics in grief and loss, TEDx, Papers, Journal Articles and Tools
- Facilitators are experienced grief therapists and trainers
- A certificate awarded upon successful completion
Cost:
$475.00
Upcoming Courses
How to Facilitate a 6 week Loss through Death Support Group - Self Directed
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About the Course
A four-week online course for any individual who wants to develop understanding and a method for facilitating a 6-week course on How to Facilitate a Loss through Death Support Group for those that have recently suffered the death of a loved one.
The online program is divided into two Modules that you will work through on your own over the four weeks of access to the online class. Once the classroom is open the participant has 24/7 access and four weeks to complete the reading and assignments. You may be in a class that has other Self-Directed participants but there is no requirement as is the case in the facilitated classes to interact unless you all decide to.
A mix of delivery mediums are integrated in the online forums from video, audio, chat, text materials, handouts and so forth, when applicable to the class.
A Certificate will be awarded upon successful completion of the training.Success is completing all assignments and questions within each of weekly Forums.
*Any or all our online courses can be offered to organizations or groups on a customized basis to meet time frames and training goals outside of the class dates advertised.
Cost: $305.00
Includes Manual and one zoom session with a Facilitator/Trainer at the beginning of week three.
Upcoming Courses
How to Facilitate a 6 week Support Group for Caregivers - Self-Directed
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About the Course
A four-week online course for any individual who wants to develop understanding and a method for facilitating a 6-week course on How to Support Caregivers who had extended exprience with caring for loved one’s in or out of a home situation or are caregivers working in extended care facilitities, organization, or community.
The online program is divided into two Modules that you will work through on your own over the four weeks of access to the online class. Once the classroom is open the participant has 24/7 access and four weeks to complete the reading and assignments. You may be a class that has other Self-Directed participants but there is no requirement as is the case in the facilitatated classes to interact unless you all decide to.
A mix of delivery mediums are integrated in the online forums from video, audio, chat, text materials, handouts and so forth, when applicable to the class.
A Certificate will be awarded upon successful completion of the training.Success is completing all assignments and questions within each of weekly Forums.
*Any or all our online courses can be offered to organizations or groups on a customized basis to meet time frames and training goals outside of the class dates advertised.
Cost: $305
Includes Manual and one zoom session with a Facilitator/Trainer at the beginning of week three.
Upcoming Courses
Grief and Loss for Support Workers in High Risk Populations - Self Directed
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This is a self-directed online course.
A registrant has 6 months to complete the four modules and write a 40 question multiple choice, true or false quiz. 80% is required to receive a certificate of completion and an e-copy of the “Grief and Loss: A Field Manual for Support Workers in High Risk Populations”
Course Fee: $425 – includes manual
Upcoming Courses
Click the + toggle to learn more about each training
Upcoming Training
Facilitated Courses
Level 1 – The Basics of Grief and Loss
Level 2 – Advanced Practices and Topics in Grief and Loss
How to Facilitate a Support Group for Caregivers
Unlocking Compassion:
Facilitating Non-Death Loss Support Groups
Self- Directed Courses
Level 1 – The Basics of Grief and Loss – Self Directed
How to Facilitate a 6 week Loss through Death Support Group – Self Directed
How to Facilitate a 6 week Support Group for Caregivers – Self Directed
All interested practitioners are welcome
Upcoming Training
Facilitated Courses
Level 1 – The Basics of Grief and Loss
Level 2 – Advanced Practices and Topics in Grief and Loss
How to Facilitate a Support Group for Caregivers
Unlocking Compassion:
Facilitating Non-Death Loss Support Groups
Self- Directed Courses
Level 1 – The Basics of Grief and Loss – Self Directed
How to Facilitate a 6 week Loss through Death Support Group – Self Directed
How to Facilitate a 6 week Support Group for Caregivers – Self Directed
All interested practitioners are welcome
Who will benefit from this training?
Professionals such as:
- counsellors
- therapists
- social workers
- school counselors
- crisis workers
- palliative care nurses
- hospice workers
- funeral home employees
- death doulas
Certification
A certificate will be awarded upon completion of the training.
On-line Training
A mix of delivery mediums are integrated in the online forums from video, audio, Skype when applicable to the class.
The on-line course can be offered to organizations or groups on a customized basis to meet time frames outside of the class dates offered.
Instructors
The sessions are facilitated by a grief and loss therapist/trainer from the Centre.
What Participants say about our Courses
Level 1: The Basics-Grief & Loss – facilitated
Overall, I really enjoyed the course and am glad I enrolled. I think it will help me tremendously in both my direct counselling practice and my everyday mental health & addictions work. I feel a lot more confident navigating the basic concepts of grief and loss and I have noticed this over the past few weeks in my practice.
The greatest strengths of the course are the two very knowledgeable and caring natures of the facilitators and video clips that were kept short
I appreciated the feedback and comments from participants in the Forum and the Zoom discussions. The course provides great resources and recommendations for further information as well as access to the Resources Hub after you complete the course.
Level 1: The Basics-Grief & Loss – self directed
I appreciated all the excellent content that combined theory with counselling , knowledge, wisdom and many years of experience.
The course was amazing it was at your own pase and it could even be 10 weeks long I will be taking more from you in the near future. Thank you again
This is one of the best courses I have ever take. Really informative, broad and thought provoking which I really appreciated. Thanks you for all you do and your thoughtful responses. So important in navigating life is understanding grief.
I underestimated the amount to read and watch each week. I wonder if the end of each week could be pushed to Sundays instead of Thursdays so there is the weekend to read and complete assignments?
Also appreciate the 6 months access to go through and finish up the material.
Level 2 Online: Advanced Practices
For me it was the zoom meetings. It was such an amazing experience listening to the other participants views and feedback. It was a safe place to share and learn”. “I am grateful to have been part of this course. The Facilitators are knowledgeable and willing to share their experience.
I think using real-life client cases and hearing others’ in the field ideas has been my favorite takeaway in this course. Going over case studies and allowing us to trial and error with a diverse range of case studies was highly beneficial for my learning.
Online: How to Facilitate a 6 week Loss through Death Support Group
Thank-you very much for the online zoom sessions last night, and the past three weeks to learn from your wisdom and the materials provided by LTLCS. Your course was wonderful, and so much relevent learning to the work I am currently engaged in, and for generally living a better in community and personal life!
I really, really appreciated the emphasis placed on care of the carer/helping professional/facilitator etc. It can be so easy for care to ‘slide’ or diminish, for little imperceptible cracks to begin to materialize…
Online: How to Facilitate a 6 week Loss through Death Support Group – Self Directed
I found the quality of this training high and it was beneficial to me in my job. The greatest strengths of this course is that is concrete, relevant and valuable.
Custom Course – For Alzheimer Caregiver Support Team (Nov/Dec 2024)
It was such an enjoyable course, and I am still so amazed at how knowledgeable both Cheryl and Lynette are. We were really provided with a very solid foundation to conduct our grief work with our clients here.
Refund and Cancellation Policy
If you would like to withdraw from a course, please submit written notice(email or in writing) at least three business days before the course begins to be eligible for a refund (less a $50 administration fee). Withdrawal from the course once it has started will be handled on a case by case basis.
On-line Training Link
The following is the link to our On-line Training website. You will receive a username and password to log in.