Nancy Saxton-Lopes, LCSW & Estelle Giles-Monroe, LCSW
Biography
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Abstract
The purpose of this presentation is to create an awareness and understanding of how participants in a support group experience the loss of a companion animal. The “themes” or questions and discussions initiated by these questions will be presented. Participants arrive at the group in very fragile states and need validation, support, compassion, education and comfort. In over 25 years of leading this type of group the people change but the questions are the same. People want to know if their feelings are normal, what the grieving process is like, how to respond with those around them who are not understanding or insensitive, how to work through euthanasia decisions, what to say to their children, and when should they get another pet. These and other related questions will be discussed.
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