LAKEPORT, Calif. – A series of workshop sessions designed to help individuals dealing with grief, loss and mourning is scheduled for Saturdays in February, Hospice Services of Lake County has announced.

The workshop is divided into four consecutive Saturday sessions starting Feb. 4.

The 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. classes will take place at the Bereavement Center on the Hospice campus, 1862 Parallel Drive.

There is a $25 material fee to cover resources, tools and materials included in the training. Each participant will receive a variety of printed materials and a DVD. 

Offered to community members who desire to be more knowledgeable and skillful in their relationships with those who are mourning, this workshop is designed to meet the variety of needs in the community, according to workshop facilitator Linda Laing, a licensed marriage and family therapist.

It is recommended for caregivers, counselors, human service professionals, volunteers and others interested in the topic.

The number of participant seats will be limited. Registration is recommended. Complimentary snacks and beverages will be provided. Participants are encouraged to bring their own lunches.

To register for the workshop, contact Laing by calling 707-263-6222 or sending an email to her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

“Supporting individuals who are mourning the loss of a loved one can be challenging, especially in Lake County where so many complicated deaths occur,” said Laing. “A deeper understanding of grief, coupled with enhanced skills, will help us reach out and comfort those that are grieving.”

Laing will lead participants through topics using a bereavement support group model including guided discussions, use of DVDs, and instruction.

“Discussions involving our collective experiences with death and dying will enrich the learning environment as we journey through this group process together,” said Laing.

Guest speakers will also present at workshop sessions. 

Laing is the director of Bereavement Services for Hospice Services of Lake County. She holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology and is a registered art therapist. She earned a certification in Death and Grief Studies under the supervision of Dr. Alan D. Wolfelt at the Center for Loss and Life Transition in Fort Collins, Colo.
 
For more information, call Hospice Services of Lake County, 707-263-6222. Visit the organization’s Web site at www.lakecountyhospice.org .