Bereavement Professional

  • 1.  Using technology to provide bereavement support

    Posted 03-04-2021 04:24 PM
    Good Afternoon,

    As times are changing (especially during the covid pandemic) we are exploring ways to better use technology to support our bereavement clients.
    I am wondering if anyone has any experiences (good or bad) doing the following --- Electronically mailing bereavement literature, providing a bereavement support messaging function, video calling/ grief support (one on one or groups), or a daily/ weekly inspirational message.

    Any thoughts or feedback is appreciated.

    Thank you, Lindsey Sheets ​

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    Lindsey Sheets, LMSW
    Director of Bereavement & Volunteer Services, Residential Hospice
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  • 2.  RE: Using technology to provide bereavement support

    Posted 03-08-2021 03:18 PM
    I lead an open bereavement group that was in process face to face before COVID but transitioned to Webex after we went remote. I have had new people join since and it has worked well. I send out the invitations and people can join by phone or video. Occasionally, there is the 'Please mute yourself' issue, but other than that it works okay. Honestly, I prefer the face to face because of the additional context of body language and the ability to work with their energy, but it is not possible for us now so this is a good option. ​
    Original Message


  • 3.  RE: Using technology to provide bereavement support

    Posted 03-10-2021 12:24 PM
    We have been running a virtual yoga grief group via GoTo Meeting 1 x week.  It is a closed group and runs for 6 weeks.  There have been some technical difficulties as times but has been very well received.
    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: Using technology to provide bereavement support

    Posted 03-11-2021 01:26 PM
    I've been running online groups using Zoom since July 2020. I'm impressed with how well people are able to connect and the depth of conversation. It took a lot of time coaxing people to try online initially. The resistance to tech has decreased as the pandemic persists. I suspect I will be doing a mix of in-person and online as our community opens up so that there are continued options for those who have transportation/ mobility barriers to accessing in person groups. Several people have commented that they appreciate not having to figure in transportation time or drive in the rain/ snow or dark.

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    Laura Lirette M.Ed, MSW, CSWA
    Bereavement Coordinator
    Mt Hood Hospice
    PO Box 1269
    Sandy, OR 97055
    Main number: 503-668-5545
    Fax: 503-668-7951
    llirette@mthoodhospice.org
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    Original Message


  • 5.  RE: Using technology to provide bereavement support

    Posted 03-12-2021 02:12 PM
    Hi Lindsey, we transitioned to virtual when the pandemic started and have witnessed how our groups have grown significantly as people have grown more comfortable with technology. We do provide an affirmation email once per week, to those who sign up. We also provide virtual one on one or family counseling.

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    Karen Monts
    Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
    Northstar Care Community
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    Original Message


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