How does it work?

Seasons for Growth is a small group program that combines psychology and education with peer support, within a person centred learning approach. It uses the metaphor of the seasons to explore the cyclic nature of grief, and is underpinned by William Worden’s tasks of grieving.

The program aims to normalise participants’ experiences, and can increase protective factors (including building personal resilience and social skills) while minimising some risk factors (including isolation) that influence mental health and wellbeing. It also supports the development of communication, decision making and problem solving skills.

How is it delivered?

Run over 4-8 sessions, Exploring the Seasons of Grief is a small group (4-7 participants) grief and loss program.

The Understanding Change, Loss and Grief 3 hour seminar is designed for use in a wide variety of contexts with up to 25 participants, where groups and individuals are seeking to deepen their general understanding of change, lossand grief.

Trained ‘Companions’ facilitate either/both elements of the Seasons for Growth adult program. Companions may be agency staff, endorsed volunteers or other suitable adults who undertake a two-day training workshop and subsequent accreditation.

Outcomes

Seasons for Growth provides the support and space for adults to:

• Learn how different people respond to change, loss and grief
• Understand that it is normal to experience a range of grief reactions
• Explore new approaches to dealing with change, loss and grief in their lives
• Build communication, decision making and problem solving skills
• Participate in a supportive network of peers and adults
• Integrate their new learning into their relationships with family, friends and others.