LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Often, when we lose a loved one, we don’t know where to turn for emotional support.

Hospice Services of Lake County’s Community Bereavement program recognizes that there is not just a single way through grief.

In response, Hospice Services of Lake County offers a variety of services to support individuals as they navigate life after the loss of a loved one.

A free, eight-week series of grief and loss group meetings will be offered by Hospice Services on Thursdays, 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., starting Sept. 12 in the cities of Clearlake and Lakeport. Specific locations will be provided when participants enroll.

The group sessions are available for adults who have experienced the death of a loved one.

Education is provided about grief, mourning, what is “normal” and general support toward healing.

In group sessions, unique stories and memories of loved ones are honored. Group sessions are structured with combined instruction and discussion in a safe environment by specially trained staff and volunteer facilitators.

Weekly topics are presented in a meaningful sequence, so attendance at all sessions is essential. Examples of topics covered in groups include: setting our intention to heal, dispelling misconceptions about grief, exploring personal feelings of loss, seeking resolution and self-care.

For information and to reserve a space, call Kathleen Bradley or Jo Moore at 707-263-6270, Extension 123 or 137. Pre-registration is required.

Hospice Services of Lake County provides the highest quality medical, emotional and spiritual care to help patients and their families navigate their end-of-life journeys.

For more information, call Hospice Services of Lake County, 707-263-6222. Visit the organization's website at http://www.lakecountyhospice.org.

Janine Smith-Citron is director of development for Hospice Services of Lake County.