Our relationships with animals shape our lives in meaningful and lasting ways. They become part of our routines, our homes, and our stories. When these relationships change or end, the grief that follows can be deep, yet often receives little recognition or space for support.

This in-person peer support group welcomes those grieving the death of a pet or companion animal, experiencing loss after rehoming or separation, or anticipating a death. The group is a "drop-in" style group meaning participants can attend individual sessions as needed without committing to a full series or attending every meeting. 

The format of the group is largely built around open-ended time to share your grief experience, without people trying to "fix it" or help you "move on." Together, we will create space to reflect on the bonds we form with creatures of another species and the many ways loss can be experienced. No grief is too unusual or too small to be honored. Through shared presence and conversation, participants will support one another in recognizing the significance of these relationships and challenging the idea that grief for animals should be minimized or quickly moved past.

To support a more connected experience, the group is limited to 9 participants. 

Admission:

Sliding Scale: $5 - $25

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About Your Facilitator

Nathan Barnett (he/him) is an animal lover who has found a home in Portland after living in the south, the midwest, and the Atlantic coast. He knows the heartbreak of losing a beloved animal companion and how hard it can be to find places where that grief is understood and honored.

Nathan, a professional counselor associate, is trained in clinical rehabilitation counseling with a focus on grief and disability, but in this space, he aims simply to help hold a gentle, nonjudgmental container where stories of love and loss can be shared, shedding the hat of “counselor” for the role of peer in grief, helping to hold this sacred space.