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Support Groups for Teens Who Lost a Parent

When teenagers lose a parent, they might find it hard to express their grief to family members who are grieving as well, or to friends who probably lack understanding of what they are going through. Support groups offer a meeting point where teenagers can talk and mix with peers in similar situations. A variety of children and teenage support groups are available nationwide to those who have lost a parent.

  1. National Alliance for Grieving Children

    • National Alliance for Grieving Children is a national organization that provides information and resources for bereavement counselling and therapy to young people. The association primarily focuses on networking and training of volunteers and counselors, but also has a comprehensive database on the support centers within the United State. The website provides information on current issues and a schedule of professional workshops concerning grieving children and teenagers across the country.

    Outward Bound and Judi's House

    • Outward Bound is an organization that helps young people learn skills by giving them challenging experiences that include, among others, hiking, climbing and backpacking. In co-operation with the charity Judi's House, the organization offers the program Heroic Journey for grieving teenagers coping with the loss of a loved one. In the course of one week, the teenagers will not only meet others with a similar experience, but also get involved in physical challenges with some grief work activities. The Heroic Journey program does not include therapy but aims to give support through talking and teamwork. Applications can be sent online, but participation fees are only quoted upon request as discounts and financial support can be given.

    Dougy Center

    • The Dougy Center in Portland, Ore., is a national organization for the support of children and families who have suffered a loss. The center has developed a specific peer support program for teenagers and trains both volunteers and professionals for the establishment of bereavement groups all over the country. On the website, the organization offers resource material and a search facility for individuals who look for a teenage support group in the neighborhood.

    Hospice of the Valley

    • Based in Phoenix, Ariz., Hospice of the Valley offers an online support group designed for teenagers who have experienced loss. The aim of the program Teens Talking to Teens is to encourage young people to express their feelings freely to peers who might be in a similar position. Teenagers are offered to write and read stories, ask questions and communicate with other members in forums. Users have to sign up before gaining access to the program, but participation is anonymous and free. Teens Talking to Teens is managed and monitored by certified bereavement counselors.

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