We run different groups and workshops of varying lengths and group member composition. We believe strongly in the importance of pre-group screening not only to ensure that the potential group member is a good candidate for the group, but also that the group is the right fit for each potential group member. For instance, we would not register someone for a partner/spouse loss group if the partner or spouse died from suicide or homicide. We offer specialized groups for those types of losses. If someone is actively alcoholic or struggling with chemical addiction, we would assist that person in addressing those concerns first before attempting to integrate them into one of our groups.
Sometimes we speak with people who clearly are having a complicated grief response and determine that a grief support group would be contraindicated. In those cases we would make a referral to a therapist who is skilled in the treatment of complicated grief. We often make referrals for community counseling when there are unmanaged mental health issues. The trick is to do the screening in a way that engages the caller in the process of finding the best resource for his or her particular need. When done thoughtfully, people feel their needs have been well-served even though we may have mutually determined that attending a support group may not be the treatment of choice.
I can think of two other areas of consideration from an organizational perspective. First, is the safety of the group leader(s) and other group members. Without any attempt to screen potential group members the agency has no idea who may attend. Granted, a phone call may not mitigate all risk but without any type of screening process the agency opens itself up to greater liability. The second consideration is that well-run bereavement groups can serve as a great marketing tool for the hospice. The success of support groups relies largely on the goodness-of-fit among group members. Adequate screening enhances the likelihood of that goodness-of-fit. A poorly run group stands to taint the reputation of the hospice in the community and may cause more harm than good to group members.
------------------------------
Kathleen McAleer, LICSW, ACHP-SW
Bereavement Coordinator
Cranberry Hospice & Palliative Care
36 Cordage Park Circle
Suite 326
Plymouth, MA 02360
508-746-0215
kmcaleer@jordanhospital.orgCranberry HospiceBereavement CoordinatorLICSW, ACHP-SWPlymouthPlymouthPlymouthMA
Original Message:
Sent: 02-10-2016 15:25
From: Anonymous Member
Subject: Grief groups
This message was posted by a user wishing to remain anonymous
We have a new policy at our hospice of having grief groups every Tuesday for 4 sessions. This is new to me as I have been running 8 session groups every other Tuesday for 4 months. Has anyone out there had success with 4 weekly sessions? If so, could you give me some ideas as how to format the groups? I am also wondering how things go without screening. Part of the new policy is the date/time/place are published both in the hospice mailings as well as on hospital calandars. Has this worked for anyone? Any reponse will be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.