The Hospice of East Texas Grief Support Programs

Grief is a normal process of reacting to significant changes in one’s life.  Bereavement involves learning how to live with the change caused by the loss of a loved one.  Grief is a unique and individual experience and may cause changes to one’s physical, emotional, behavioral and spiritual well-being, all of which are normal reactions to loss.  The grief process takes time and support. 

The Hospice of East Texas is pleased to offer a variety of support programs designed to promote positive ways for healing.  Bereavement support is provided to patients’ families for at least twelve months after the death of a loved one.  In addition, many of our programs are offered free of charge to anyone in the community who has suffered the loss of a loved one due to death.

All of the support programs are offered at designated locations throughout Hospice of East Texas’ eighteen county service area.  Pre-registration for all groups and events is required.

Grief Workshops

Bereaved persons meet in a small confidential group, one day a week for 6 consecutive weeks.  The group focuses on education about the normal grief process, while members provide one another with support and shared coping strategies.

Adult Bereavement Support Groups

When possible, we recommend that persons attend a Grief Workshop series prior to support group participation.  These confidential ongoing monthly groups provide a safe place to share experiences with others who are also grieving the loss of a loved one. 

Caregiver Support Program

This group is open to anyone who provides care for a terminally ill loved one in their home.  Caregivers meet monthly in a small confidential group to support and encourage one another in their difficult role as caregiver.  Members will also receive education on a variety of topics related to caregiving.

WINGS Program for Bereaved Children

The purpose of this program is to offer emotional support to grieving children and their families who have experienced the death of someone significant in their lives.  Workshops encourage expression of feelings while educating participants about the normal grieving process.  Workshops are offered throughout the year and include peer groups for children from K-12th grades as well as a concurrent session for parents.

Other Community Services

A variety of grief related materials are available upon request.

Bereavement professionals are available to provide memorial services and/or support groups at nursing homes or assisted living facilities to help staff and residents cope with loss.

Bereaved persons in the community are referred to appropriate community resources as needed.

For more information or to register for any grief support programs please call the Hospice of East Texas Bereavement Department at (903) 266-3400 or 1-800-777-9860.

Click here for our calendar of events.