Grief and Bereavement Support
Grief and Bereavement Support provides caring, confidential support to care partners coping with loss. Our team helps people identify and process their emotions, develop healthy coping skills, and begin the journey toward healing.
Who We Help
This program is available to anyone who:
- Is grieving the loss of a loved one
- Is anticipating the loss of someone with a serious or life-limiting illness
- Is struggling to manage difficult emotions related to loss
- Is seeking connection, understanding, and tools to cope
- Support can be accessed before or after a death
What to Expect
Our services are flexible and tailored to meet your needs. Access to the following supports is available:
1:1 psychotherapy with a licensed Social Worker (up to 6 sessions)
“Coping with Loss” Support Group, a 6-week series facilitated by a trained Social Worker
Monthly phone check-ins with a Providence Care Bereavement staff member (for up to one year following a death)
1:1 volunteer Support with a trained grief volunteer (up to 8 sessions)
Key Benefits
Through the program you can expect to:
Feel less alone in your grief
Learn healthy ways to cope and process emotions
Understand your grief responses and triggers
Connect with others who are grieving
Receive compassionate support from trained staff and volunteers
How to Access the Service
For clients and care partners
Email hospicereferrals@providencecare.ca or call 613-544-4900 ext. 51910.
Self-referrals are welcome.
For Referring Partners
Referrals can be made directly by contacting hospicereferrals@providencecare.ca or call 613-544-4900 ext. 51910.
Eligibility criteria
- The client has a serious, life-limiting illness
- Client has experienced the death of a significant person in their life within the past year
- Eligibility may vary on a case-by-case basis
- For questions or to confirm eligibility, contact 613-544-4900, ext. 59180
FAQs
Who can access the Grief and Bereavement Support Program?
Anyone who has experienced the death of a loved one, or who is anticipating a loss, can access our services. You do not need to have received care from Providence Care or a hospice to participate.
Do I need a referral to access support?
No. You can self-refer by calling or emailing our program directly. Healthcare providers, social workers, and community partners can also make referrals on your behalf if you prefer.
Is there a cost to participate?
No. All grief and bereavement supports are offered free of charge thanks to the generosity of community donors.
What types of support are available?
We offer several options based on your needs, including:
- Individual psychotherapy with a licensed Social Worker
- A 6–7 week “Coping with Loss” support group
- Monthly follow-up calls for ongoing connection
- One-on-one volunteer-led support sessions
How soon after a loss can I join?
Everyone grieves differently, some people seek support right away, while others reach out months later. Our team will work with you to determine what feels right and connect you with the most appropriate support.
How long can I receive support for?
Grief and bereavement supports are available for up to one year following the death of a significant person in your life. However, short-term counselling or check-ins may be available beyond that depending on your needs.
Can I receive support if my loved one did not die in hospice care?
Yes. The program is open to anyone in the community, regardless of where the death occurred or where care was received.
Are sessions offered in person or virtually?
Both options are available. You can meet with a Social Worker or join groups in person at our Kingston location or virtually through secure video conferencing.
What if I’m not sure which service is right for me?
That’s completely okay. When you reach out, our Grief and Bereavement Coordinator will talk with you about your needs and preferences.
Program Information:
Once a referral is received, you will be contacted by the Hospice Grief and Bereavement Coordinator to complete an intake and arrange services.
Contact Information
340 Union Street,
Kingston, ON K7L 4E6
544-4900 ext. 59180
Hours of Operation
Our facilities operate 24/7, but building access and available services vary by location and time of day. Some entrances may be locked, and ID badge or intercom access may be required.
Clinic and outpatient service hours also differ. Please contact your specific care area or clinic for details.
Grief & Bereavement Coordinator
613-544-4900, ext. 59106
Care Manager
613-544-4900, ext. 59105
Community Hospice Programs
613-544-4900, ext. 59180
Vice-President, Corporate Services and Executive Director, Hospice
613-544-4900, ext. 53376
