The one common denominator that connects all humans around the world is the loss of someone we love. Death is a natural part of life. The loss of a loved one can often be a difficult experience. Understanding the dynamics of grief will help lead us to healthy mourning and healing.

Through this our Grief Support Groups were born. The topics of the groups vary and are facilitated by Daniel Hernandez, M.A. Clinical Thanatologist. Daniel has worked in mental health for the past 25 years and specializes in the field of thanatology (the study of death, dying and bereavement) and Cross-Cultural Psychotherapy. For the past 25 years he has worked at university settings as a mental health therapist and educator. He has a profound love for teaching and has taught graduate courses in counseling and human development, and mental health. Daniel has taught at San Jose State University, Syracuse University, Colgate University, Utica College and St. Lawrence University.

Daniel has provided support to individuals and families who have suffered a loss. He has facilitated support groups that have focused on: death of a child, survivors of suicide, and widows/widowers’ groups. Daniel continues to present topic seminars in the field of death, dying and bereavement.

Daniel did his undergraduate and graduate work at San Jose State University. He has received training at the Center for Loss at Fort Collins, Colorado and is a member of the Association for Death Education and Counseling. He is a past Chair of the People of Color Committee that addressed end-of-life issues within a cultural context.

Each Grief Support Group has a limited amount of space designed for a more personal experience. If you’re interested in one of our Grief Support Groups fill out an interest form to be considered.

Testimonials from previous Grief Support Groups

~“I learned so much about grief and myself. The facilitator is excellent and their knowledge and expertise is beyond amazing. It was a place where I was able to share my grief in a space that was safe. It was an experience that offered the chance to create bonds with others while exploring and learning about grief. Through this experience I was able to express my loss through writing, talking, and activities. I would tell them that this was an experience that was greater than my expectations due to the person facilitating the group and to not pass on the opportunity to be a part of this special type of support group.”

~“A process of understanding and dealing with grief better by walking through weekly exercises/assignments that help you to process your grief in a unique way.”

~“Literally life changing. Got me from being closed off and suffering alone to feeling open and free.”

~"The experience was more productive and informative than any other group I have been in. Daniel has a lifetime of valuable experience, teaching tools, and information.”

~“I’m so glad that I joined this group. It helped me to process so many feelings & struggles that felt stuck inside of me. It helped me to be able to acknowledge my dad’s life & his importance to me. I’m also very glad it was in person.”