Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about us and what we do.
Do you provide counseling?
The Centre for Grief and Healing utilizes a peer support model. Our groups and one-to-ones are facilitated by adults who guide, listen and support each person while they express their thoughts, feelings and fears to help provide a new sense of normal and understanding. None of the services provided by the Centre for Grief and Healing are counseling or therapy sessions, however, we can provide referrals for those in need of these services.
What is a "Peer Support" model?
our family/friend circle and have undergone a similar journey of learning to cope and live with our grief. We are survivors of our grief - we can provide you with experiential knowledge, educational information and support that was and is gained through our lived experience of being similarly bereaved.
How much do you charge for your services?
What steps do I need to take before joining a group/receiving individual support?
Every person is required to call the Centre for Grief and Healing to complete a brief intake with one of our staff members*. The intake process takes a minimum of 5 minutes to complete. During the intake, we will ask you for basic information such as your: Name, Date of Birth, Address, Phone Number, and E-mail. Afterward, we will ask you about the loved one you have lost. We will ask you for their: Name, Date of Birth and Death, Relationship with You, and How They Passed Away.
Do I have to have a one-to-one? What is it?
Do I have to call to let you know I plan on attending a group?
Yes. We require all participants and members to call or e-mail the Monday of the week the group runs in order to register and attend any group (you may call any other day during the same week; however, spots are limited and fill fast). We are open from 9:00am-5:00pm Monday to Friday to answer incoming calls and to check messages.
What can I expect in a group?
Do you have age restrictions for group/individual support?
You must be 18+ to attend our: Child Loss, Guardian Loss, Partner Loss, and Mixed Loss groups. Our Youth and Young Adult Art Expression group is offered for those 14-29 years of age. We provide individual support (one-to-ones) for ages 6 and up.
Does my loss need to be recent to receive support?
We all grieve differently. We recognize that grief can hit us at different stages in our lives no matter the amount of time that has passed since the loss. Please join us when you are ready, whether it's soon after your loss, months later, or years later.
I'm running late! Can I still come to group?
We ask for all registered participants to arrive on time. This is to be respectful and mindful of the other participants who may be sharing/disclosing difficult information with the other group members. If you are aware that there is a chance you may be late, please call us at 905-848-4337. It is important to note that after group has started, the main office door will be locked 10 minutes from the group's start time.
Someone in our school/workplace died. Do you provide support for this?
We provide support groups and/or educational workshops onsite for students and staff members coping with a loss and for those who are unsure of how to better support themselves and those around them. Please see our Workshop tab under 'SUPPORT' for more information.
Do you provide support for a Pet Loss?
Unfortunately, we do not provide support solely for those who have lost a pet. If you are in need of a Pet Loss support group, you may contact "Ontario Pet Loss Support Group" at: 905-272-4040 (Mississauga), 905-842-2252 (Oakville) and/or 416-782-1197 (Toronto).
Do you limit the amount of participants in group?
Yes. We cap all of our groups at 10 participants. We limit the amount of participants in group to be mindful of the amount of time available for each individual to share and be heard. We want to ensure that everyone who wants to share has the opportunity to do so.
I am unable to make it to a group I registered for. What to I do?
