Who We
The Grief Companioning Project is a community-based program designed to offer free supportive guidance to individuals and families who have suffered the sudden/violent death of a loved one. Companions (trained, supervised, volunteer community members) who have mastered the psychological chaos after sudden/violent dying, will offer a free compassionate presence and understanding for those who are experiencing the early stages of Traumatic Grief.
Grief Support Groups
The Grief Companioning Project hosts groups for those impacted by the devastation of a sudden loss. These 8-week, closed groups are offered in the spring and fall. CLICK HERE for more information.
In times of sorrow
it is crucial to have people in our lives who can provide emotional support and comfort. The combination of intense trauma and grief can be overwhelming, and it can be challenging to cope with these emotions on our own. Having a supportive network of friends and family members can make a significant difference in how we process and restore ourselves. In addition to family and friends, a volunteer companion who has mastered a similar tragedy can offer a listening ear, offer practical help, and provide a sense of connection and belonging that can help us feel less alone in our struggles. Sharing our pain with others can be therapeutic and can help us move forward on the path towards prevailing and restorative mastery of this life tragedy.
COMPASSION
Sharing each other’s burdens is a powerful act of solidarity that helps us connect on a deeper level and offer support in times of need, strengthening our relationships and our ability to face life’s challenges together.
COMMUNITY
Summoning spiritual and emotional support when in sorrow is especially important, as it can provide a sense of stability that can help alleviate feelings of trauma, grief and isolation, allowing us to process our emotions in a healthier way and begin the process of restorative adaptation.
com·pan·ion (kəm-ˈpan-yən)
one that accompanies another
also : one that keeps company with another
SUPPORTING ONE ANOTHER
Being there for one another in times of grief allows us to share our burdens and emotions, offer comfort and compassion, and create a sense of togetherness that can help us adapt and move forward beyond the tragedy.
WALKING, TOGETHER.
“In misery it is great comfort to have a companion.” – John Lyly
The sudden loss of a loved one can be a traumatic experience that can leave a lasting impact on our well-being. The suddenness and/or violence (accident, suicide, homicide) of the dying can make it difficult to process – leaving us with feelings of shock, disbelief, and intense traumatic pain. Traumatic Grief after sudden/violent dying is a unique experience that varies from person to person, depending on factors such as our relationship with the deceased, our personal coping mechanisms, and our individual experiences of trauma and loss. It’s essential to recognize that Traumatic Grief is a complex and often unpredictable journey, and that seeking support from others can be an important part of the adaptive process. By acknowledging our pain and reaching out to others for help, we can begin to move forward towards a place of restoration.
ABOUT US
MEET OUR LEADERSHIP
Our team brings decades of experience, empathy, and guidance that can help individuals and organizations cope with sudden loss.
Dr Ted Rynearson
FOUNDER
Cindi Sinnema
DIRECTOR
WE ARE THANKFUL TO OUR FRIENDS AND PARTNERSHIPS:
