Contact the Helpline 604-738-9950
Toll-Free: 1-877-779-2223
Toll-Free: 1-877-779-2223
Virtual Webinars & Resources
Presented by Grief Educator, Dr. Catherine Hajnal. Things are pretty topsy-turvy right now. The reality is that some of that unease and anxiety might be us grieving a felt sense of loss due to the COVID-10 pandemic and of us trying to make sense of all of that is happening around us. Listen to Dr. Hajnal define and discuss Secondary and Ambigous Losses present with the pandemic and learn some coping skills to help ease our feelings of loss.
The Funeral Service Foundation 'COVID-19 Grief Guide' addresses the challenges of grieving a loved one’s death during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the nature of grief; traumatic loss and its triggers; ambiguous losses; and the risk of disenfranchised grief. It also addresses the importance of talking to children about death and memorialization and the difficulties of being separated from a loved one at the time of their death. The guide offers guidance on how families can meaningfully celebrate the life of their loved one and discusses the importance of maintaining your health while grieving.
Quality palliative care helps you honour your culture, spirituality and traditions. At LivingMyCulture.ca, people from various cultures share their stories and wisdom about living with serious illness, end of life and grief to support others. Perspectives include First Nations, Inuit, Métis, Chinese, Ethiopian, Filipino, Indian, Iranian, Italian, Pakistani and Somali.
This infographic by Morning Star Lodge at the University of Saskatchewan is a guide for Indigenous Peoples for processing grief and maintaining holistic health during these uncertain times. Canadian Virtual Hospice and the University of Saskatchewan Medical School were partners in the development of this resource.
Online Mindfulness & Support Tools
Online Mindfulness-Based Programs for Youth and Adults - BC Crisis Centre
Mindshift - MindShift™ CBT uses scientifically proven strategies based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help you learn to relax and be mindful, develop more effective ways of thinking, and use active steps to take charge of your anxiety.
Grief: Releasing Pain, Remembering Love & Finding Meaning - free online grief Facebook group for anyone who needs support, from grief educator, David Kessler.
Healing Hearts Group: Bereavement and Peer Support After a Substance Use or Drug Harms. The meetings provide an opportunity for mutual support and understanding.
Soaring Spirits International - Offers support via an online community. Offers virtual zoom group meetings for those widowed during/by COVID-19.
What's Your Grief - Information about grief and loss
The Dinner Party - Virtual Tables
TheDinnerParty.org is hosting "virtual tables" for those who have lost someone significant in their life. You are matched up with other tables and like-minded people depending on how you answer your submission form. At these tables, you are able to talk to others who have also lost somebody, and have a chance to share your story and hear others.
"The Dinner Party is not about one-off dinners. It’s about building community and connection over time. Your table will meet every couple months or so and you’ll start getting to know more about your fellow Dinner Partiers beyond just their story of loss. You feel less alone and have new friends who you can share all parts of your story with — even the parts that rarely see the light of day."
Cost: $35 membership
Time: Ongoing
More information can be found here: https://www.thedinnerparty.org/how-it-works
Provincial Resources
Canadian Mental Health Association list of Covid-19 Resources
CRISIS LINES
100 Mile House
The Compassionate Friends – 100 Mile House
Andrea Martin: 250-706-9824
Non-denominational, non-profit offering support to families who have experienced the death of a child of any age and from any cause. The purpose of the group is to aid in the positive reconciliation of grief. Also, “Telephone Friends”, who compassionately listen, may be called at any time. Call for support or more information.
100 Hundred Mile District Hospice Palliative Care Society
250-395-7680
Providing one-on-one bereavement telephone support in community at large for those who have suffered the loss of a loved one. Educational materials on grief and bereavement issues are available. Call for more information.
Abbotsford
Abbotsford Peer Support for Seniors
604-850-0011
The office is closed, but staff are working remotely from 9 am - 12 pm Mon-Fri. Currently offering phone support only. No cost for services.
Columbia Counselling Associates
604-852-2557
Counselling available in person and through video/phone meetings. Counsellors, available weekdays and evenings, provide individual, couple, and family counseling by appointment, including the facilitation of grief and bereavement issues. Counsellors can see adults, children, and youth. Our goal is to continue to provide support, encouragement, and help during this uncertain time.
Griefshare Central Heights Church - Abbotsford
604-852-1001
Currently offering spiritual support, online groups, counselling and grief suppirt via video, with limited access to a food bank. Office Hours: 9am - 4pm (closed 12-1) Monday through Thursday.
Moving Forward Family Services
1-877-485-4025
Offering temporary telephone & online counselling to those experiencing grief, trauma, or any socio-emotional concern. Free phone sessions are available on a short-term basis, after 6 sessions will be reviewed with supervisor, after which it will return to regular pricing. Our mission is to work with those who cannot afford traditional private therapy rates, are in eligible for public services, or face long waits for public services. Counselling intake available here.
Valley View Funeral Home- Surrey
604-596-8866
Offers bereavement support in Surrey to individuals throughout the Fraser Valley area who have experienced the death of a loved one under traumatic or violent circumstances. Currently offering telephone grief support. Contact for more information. Office availability is only for families who are coming in to make funeral arrangements and limited to two family members.
Anmore
604-945-0606
Emotional Support for Youth Adult Bereavement Services (13-25) and Adult Bereavement Services will be offered through phone support. We are a Non-Profit supporting families and individuals who are experiencing anticipatory grief or grieving the death of a loved one. Please call for more information.
Ashcroft
South Cariboo Elizabeth Fry Society
250-453-9656
Offering support and referrals through telephone or internet. Non-Profit organization offering a variety of services, including one-on-one grief and bereavement support through their Family Support Worker. Drop-in basis and no fees for any services.
Belcarra
604-945-0606
Emotional Support for Youth Adult Bereavement Services (13-25) and Adult Bereavement Services will be offered through phone support. We are a Non-Profit supporting families and individuals who are experiencing anticipatory grief or grieving the death of a loved one. Please call for more information.
Burnaby
604-520-5024
Offering counselling in person and via video & telephone. Continuing to accept referrals from the community and intakes for our grief counselling service. If you would like to complete an intake for counselling services, you can email the counsellor at counselling@burnabyhospice.org or leave a voice message at 604.520.5024.
Tapestry Counselling Centre
604-876-7600
Current office hours are 9am-5pm Mon-Sat, with evening appointments available Mon-Fri. Offering counselling through phone or Zoom. Provides individual counselling to adults, teens, children, couples, and families. Rates from $120-150 per hour. Call or email info@tapestrycentre.ca for a free 30 min consultation.
Castlegar
The Compassionate Friends – The Kootenays
250-367-7456
Chilliwack
Lucy: 778-860-4012 Jen: 778-860-4011
Our office is currently closed, all staff are working remotely.
At this time we offer 1-1 grief supports via telephone or video call to adults, teens and children. We normally focus on grief and loss issues which are a result of dying or death; however at this time we are available for supports related to the losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic, such as loss of social connections, employment, heightened anxiety, etc.
There is no cost for our services, at any time.
Clearwater
604-824-3200
Offering virtual and phone counselling. Medical Services by appointment only. Mental health, grief, harm prevention, addiction, intake and other services still available by phone, social media, text and email. No in-person groups or counselling occurring at this time. Grief and loss could cover natural disasters, death of family member or pet, family feuds, and more. First Nations service provider operated by a Tribal Council of 11 communities. Many of our services are available to the wider Indigenous community and some are available to the general public.
Clinton
South Cariboo Elizabeth Fry Society
250-453-9656
Offering support and referrals through telephone or internet. Non-Profit organization offering a variety of services, including one-on-one grief and bereavement support through their Family Support Worker. Drop-in basis and no fees for any services.
Coquitlam
604-945-0606
Emotional Support for Youth Adult Bereavement Services (13-25) and Adult Bereavement Services will be offered through phone support. We are a Non-Profit supporting families and individuals who are experiencing anticipatory grief or grieving the death of a loved one. Please call for more information.
604-817-5838
Services currently offered through a virtual platform. Counselling also offered through phone support. Van-Art Expression has been in business for over 24 years servicing families and agencies in the tri-cities area, offering Art and Music Therapy as well as Horticultural Therapy and Counselling Services.
Creston
The Compassionate Friends – The Kootenays
A non-denominational Non-Profit offering support to families who have experienced the death of a child of any age and from any cause. Support Group will not be offered during COVID-19 virus. Offering “Telephone Friends”, who compassionately listen, may be called at any time. Call for support or more information. The Kootenays include Castlegar, Creston, Kalso, Nakusp, Nelson, and New Denver.
250-428-7575
Open for Palliative Care only. All friendly visits are suspended until further notice. Limited grief support available by phone. No cost for services.
Dawson Creek
South Peace Hospice Palliative Care Society
250-782-3261
Currently volunteers are not working due to the restrictions of the Covid-19 situation. The office phone is checked for messages daily.
They continue to deliver any beds needed in persons homes who are palliating at home. There is no charge for these beds. They come with an air mattress, siderails and bedside table. Messages left on the phone for bed requests are followed up within 24 hours. They do not have resources for giving grief services however they can direct inquiries to the appropriate resources in the community. They do have a library of books and information that can be accessed when the office building is open. Email: sphpcs@pris.ca
Fort Nelson
Fort Nelson Hospice Society
250-500-2576
Fort Nelson Hospice Society offers grief support. Currently, their offices are closed but they will still provide telephone support for anyone who requires grief support during isolation. No cost for services. Please call for more information.
Delta
Delta Hospice Society's Centre for Support Care
604-948-0660
Delta Hospice Society’s bereavement services are available to new and existing clients via telephone, video and limited in-person sessions. Please contact counselling@deltahospice.org or 604-948-0660 to request bereavement support and a counsellor will respond as soon as possible.
Gibsons
Sunshine Coast Hospice Society
604-740-0475
info@coasthospice.com
Currently providing virtual and phone support, online grief support groups, and telephone calls to community members.
Hornby and Denman Islands
Hornby and Denman Community Health Care Society - Child, Youth and Family Services
250-898-0247
Offices are closed at the moment, but they are offering online and telephone counselling, resources, and grief support, to children, youth, and families with a child aged 0-18 years old. There are no groups operating at this time. Costs of services: Free. Email: meredith@hornbydenmanhealth.com or mike@hornbydenmanhealth.com
Invermere
Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley
778-526-5143
Virtual & Telephone grief support offered for members of the community. Regular programs suspended during COVID-19 virus. Physical office is open from 12:00pm to 4:00pm, Monday to Friday. No fees for services. Call for more information.
Kamloops
C&C Resources for Life
250-554-4747
Counsellors are available for Telehealth or telephone counselling sessions, as well as face-to-face counselling on a case-by-case basis. Counseling services provided are for grief, loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, addictive behaviors, and more. Individual counseling, couples and family counseling, and end-of-life support are available. Our support group facilitation has been discontinued until such time that it is safe to carry on with group meetings. Counsellors are available Monday-Friday, 10am - 3pm, and a receptionist is taking calles from 10am - 2pm. Charge is $130/hour for individual counselling, however a sliding-scale is available for those with significant income restrictions.
Kaslo
The Compassionate Friends - The Kootenays
A non-denominational non-profit offering support to families who have experienced the death of a child of any age and from any cause. Support Groups will not be offered during COVID-19 restrictions. Offering “Telephone Friends”, who compassionately listen, may be called at any time. Call for support or more information.
Kelowna
Central Okanagan Hospice Association
250-763-5511
All in-person services are suspended and services with trained volunteers and professional grief counsellors are available virtually or by phone. No cost for services, but donations are welcome. Bereavement support can be accessed by contacting the office.
The Compassionate Friends – Kelowna
Linda: 250-718-7039
A non-denominational Non-Profit offering support to families who have experienced the death of a child of any age and from any cause. “Telephone Friends”, who compassionately listen, may be called at any time. Call for support or more information.
Hope Matters Counselling Service
250-768-0220
Offering remote treatment only via Video or Telecounselling (no in-person sessions at this time). Offers individual counselling, including grief and bereavement. Is an R.C.C. (Registered Clinical Counsellor) which allows clients to be reimbursed for counselling services through their extended health plans (i.e. Blue Cross, etc.). Is also a Registered Crime Victim Assistance Counsellor (free of charge counselling for those applicants who qualify), an Affiliate/Contract Counsellor with various EAP programs, and an ICBC Recovery Provider.
Keremeos
Princeton Grief and Loss Support
Kerstin Stausberg: 250-295-4464
kerstin.stausberg@interiorhealth.ca
Kerstin is in office from Wednesday - Friday, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. Offers virtual & telephone grief and bereavement support to those who have recently lost a loved one. Grief Support Groups have temporarily been put on hold.
Kitimat
Local: 250-368-8311
Toll-free: 1-888-638-8311
Currently offering TeleHealth (telephone) & Online Therapy, with face-to-face therapy available on a case-by-case basis. Provides professional counselling services for a variety of subjects including grief, bereavement and trauma at a rate of $110/50 minute (individual sesson +GST); other packages and prices available here. Offers individual, child, and family appointments. Provides funding to individuals connected to:
Langley
604-530-1115
Currently offering support groups, counselling, and grief support by phone, Facetime, and small group discussions through Zoom. We are doing everything we can to support our clients during this difficult time. We are currently providing a scaled back service but we are still here. We may not be able to answer phone calls right away so people should leave a voice mail message and we will get back to them within a couple of days. Provides support to help people live with dignity and hope while coping with grief and the end of life. Services include: palliative care, hospice residence, individual and group grief support for children, teens, adults, and families. Also provides education, advocacy, volunteer training, a resource library. Call for more information, and click here to see a current list of upcoming Adult Bereavement Programs.
Maple Ridge
604-463-7722
Offering one-to-one phone support for palliative and bereavement support. Offers Grief Support to anyone residing in Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge who has had a loved one die under any circumstances. Services are for ages 6-adult. Call for more information.
Nakusp
The Compassionate Friends – The Kootenays
A non-denominational Non-Profit offering support to families who have experienced the death of a child of any age and from any cause. Support Group will not be offered during COVID-19 virus. Offering “Telephone Friends”, who compassionately listen, may be called at any time. Call for support or more information. The Kootenays include Castlegar, Creston, Kalso, Nakusp, Nelson, and New Denver.
Nanaimo
Conceivable Options Counselling
1-250-741-4421
Conceivable Options specialize in Reproductive Health (ie infertility, pregnancy loss, etc) along with depression, anxiety, life transitions. They are currently offering phone or virtual counselling. Office hours vary by the week. Cost is $100 per 50 minute session. Email Louise at louise@conceivableoptions.com
Nanaimo Community Hospice Society
250-591-8811
All grief groups and training are on hold for the time being. Counsellors are contacting registered clients with confirmed appointments to provide telephone counselling. They will continue to take referrals by telephone at 250-591-8811 and will be responding to messages at their earliest convenience.
Vancouver Island Crisis Society
1- 250-800-3806 (Text) or 1-888-753-3888 (Call)
Provides crisis support through their Crisis Line (24/7). Their Crisis texting service and their website’s online “Crisis Chat,” service are available every day from 6 pm – 10 pm. Call or visit their website for more information. https://www.vicrisis.ca/
Nelson
The Compassionate Friends – The Kootenays
A non-denominational Non-Profit offering support to families who have experienced the death of a child of any age and from any cause. Offering “Telephone Friends”, who compassionately listen, may be called at any time. Call for support or more information.
Nelson & District Hospice Society
250-352-2337
In-person offices are closed. Phone lines are open. Offer companionship and support to grievers but not clinical counselling. All services are free. Grief support groups are ongoing via Zoom. Please contact them for help setting up Zoom if you need. 1:1 support still available by phone.
New Denver
250-358-7828
The New Denver Hospice Society offers grief support through Zoom or Telephone. Their hours of operation are Monday - Friday, 10AM - 2PM. They also provide assistance to those who need groceries, perscriptions, as well as if you need to connect with someone during isolation. All services are free.
The Compassionate Friends – The Kootenays
A non-denominational Non-Profit offering support to families who have experienced the death of a child of any age and from any cause. Offering “Telephone Friends”, who compassionately listen, may be called at any time. Call for support or more information.
New Westminster
604-525-4349
Offering PreNatal, PeriNatal or Infant Loss Grief Support. Continuing to provide their monthly newsletter as well as phone and email support. Plans are underway for alternatives to their mothly in-person peer support group meetings (details will be in the newsletters). Please contact for more information. emptycradle@telus.net.
604-926-5496
Offering virtual/online counselling. A registered society that offers affordable counselling services in Greater Vancouver. They have professional counsellors, as well as Master’s of Counselling students. Both daytime and evening appointments may be available on a sliding fee scale based on current circumstances. Offers counselling for a wide variety of mental health issues and relationship challenges.
778-893-1311
Online and Phone Sessions available. Settling Steps Counselling offers one on one support for individual’s going through loss and bereavement specializing in traumatic and complicated grief. Loss is a part of our lives and needs to be felt and made space for. Other counselling services are also available.
North Vancouver
The Compassionate Friends – North Shore
604-878-9904
Currently looking at creating at Zoom Online Meeting.
A non-denominational Non-Profit offering support to families who have experienced the death of a child of any age and from any cause. “Telephone Friends”, who compassionately listen, may be called at any time. Call for support or more information.
604-926-5496
Offering virtual/online counselling. A registered society that offers affordable counselling services in Greater Vancouver. They have professional counsellors, as well as Master’s of Counselling students. Both daytime and evening appointments may be available on a sliding fee scale based on current circumstances. Counsellors have training in Bowen Family Systems Theory and offer individual, couple, or marriage counselling. $10-50 for household incomes currently below $40,000. Offers counselling for a wide variety of mental health issues and relationship challenges.
Oliver
Desert Valley Hospice Society
250-495-1590
In light of COVID-19, Desert Valley Gospice has developed a Wellness Call Check-In Program. The itnent of this program is to connect senior residents with a trained Hospice Volunteer for weekly or bi-weekly calls to maintain connection, audio-socializtion and wellness. This is not a task-oriented program. Volunteers will establish a connection and provide information, assurances, information on other services we may offer, such as Grief Support, Advanced Care Planning and Nav-CARE. Hospice Volunteers will provide empathetic listening.
Peachland
Central Okanagan Hospice Association
250-763-5511
All in-person services are suspended and services with trained volunteers and professional grief counsellors are available virtually or by phone. No cost for services, but donations are welcome. Bereavement support can be accessed by contacting the office.
Peachland Wellness Centre Bereavement Support Group
250-767-0141
Counselling offered by phone only. Office is available by appointment only/Limited 2 meter distancing during COVID-19. Experienced volunteer facilitators provide compassionate listening and educate how to work through the process of grieving. There is no fee associated with this service but donations are appreciated. Call for more information.
Port Alberni
Alberni Valley Hospice Society
250-723-4478
Offering individual grief support for adults by phone. Provides support to those affected by life-limiting illness, death and bereavement. A bereavement counselor is available for telephone support. Grief and Loss Services are free of charge. Call for more information.
Port Coquitlam
604-945-0606
Emotional Support for Youth Adult Bereavement Services (13-25) and Adult Bereavement Services will be offered through phone support. We are a Non-Profit supporting families and individuals who are experiencing anticipatory grief or grieving the death of a loved one. Please call for more information.
604-817-5838
Services currently offered through a virtual platform. Counselling also offered through phone support. Offering Art and Music Therapy as well as Horticultural Therapy and Counselling Services. Both Michelle and Brian have extensive experience in working with children, youth and adults, and clients of all ages with Developmental Disabilities.
Port Moody
604-945-0606
Emotional Support for Youth Adult Bereavement Services (13-25) and Adult Bereavement Services will be offered through phone support. We are a Non-Profit supporting families and individuals who are experiencing anticipatory grief or grieving the death of a loved one. Please call for more information.
Powell River
604-223-7309 Office Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 9:00am to 1:00pm, or by appointment.
Offering a weekly, in-person grief walking group, 1:1 grief support in-person or over the phone, an 8-week adult grief group several times a year, and Compassionate Friends support group meeting location.
Prince George
Crisis Centre for Northern BC
1-888-562-1214
The office is closed however phone lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Service is free and confidential. Provide emotional support and/or suicide intervention for anyone in crisis.
Princeton
Princeton Grief and Loss Support
250-295-4464
Offers virtual & telephone grief and bereavement support to those who have recently lost a loved one. Grief Support Groups have temporarily been put on hold. Call for more information.
Revelstoke
Community Connections Revelstoke Society
250-837-2920
Offering grief support through virtual & phone counselling. May offer a virtual support group if there is a need/request. Offers a variety of free services for the Revelstoke community, including a food bank and free counselling for individuals and families on topics such as grief/loss, mental health, addictions, and relationships. Also offers child and youth services including a limited range of counselling. Call for intake process or more information.
250-837-5523
Offering online/phone companionship. Pals visitation program being conducted through email, palliative care from a distance, grief and bereaement groups are suspended. Please contact revhosp@telus.net if you know someone who could benefit from a social telephone visit during this time of isolation.
Salmon Arm
250-832-7099
Offering Grief and Loss Support, Palliative Care Support Counselling, Caregiver Support, Companion Visits, one-on-one counselling, all via phone interaction. The Shuswap Hospice Society supports those who are struggling to cope with death and the associated emotional realities of that process. Grief and bereavement support to the families and friends of those who have lost loved ones, including one-on-one. Call for more information.
Salt Spring Island
250-384-0408
Currently offering support groups through telephone & online, telephone emotional support, caregiver coaching through the telephone, webinar and podcast online. Join us for the launch of our first podcast, Caregivers Out Loud! https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/podcast/. A space to connect, listen and learn with other caregivers. Your host, Jodie McDonald, is a psychotherapist and social worker that specializes in boundary-setting, self-care, and education for caregivers. Insightful, authentic and heart-centered conversations with caregivers that highlight the joys, trials, and self-discoveries that come along with this rewarding and taxing position.
Sechelt
Sunshine Coast Hospice Society
604-740-0475
Currently providing virtual & phone support, 1 to 1 end of life, bereavement support, and group support, for all residents on the Sunshine Coast at no cost and a two-bed hospice facility at Shorncliffe for a per diem rate. They provide caring and connection through confidential companioning.
Sicamous
250-832-7099
Offering Grief and Loss Support, Palliative Care Support Counselling, Caregiver Support, Companion Visists, one-on-one counselling, all via phone interaction. The Shuswap Hospice Society supports those who are struggling to cope with death and the associated emotional realities of that process. Grief and bereavement support to the families and friends of those who have lost loved ones, including one-on-one. Call for more information.
Sidney
250-384-0408
Currently offering support groups through telephone & online, telephone emotional support, caregiver coaching through the telephone, webinar and podcast online. Join us for the launch of our first podcast, Caregivers Out Loud! https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/podcast/. A space to connect, listen and learn with other caregivers. Your host, Jodie McDonald, is a psychotherapist and social worker that specializes in boundary-setting, self-care, and education for caregivers. Insightful, authentic and heart-centered conversations with caregivers that highlight the joys, trials, and self-discoveries that come along with this rewarding and taxing position.
Sorrento
250-832-7099
Offering Grief and Loss Support, Palliative Care Support Counselling, Caregiver Support, Companion Visists, one-on-one counselling, all via phone interaction. The Shuswap Hospice Society supports those who are struggling to cope with death and the associated emotional realities of that process. Grief and bereavement support to the families and friends of those who have lost loved ones, including one-on-one. Call for more information.
Surrey
Moving Forward Family Services
1- 877-485-3054
Offering temporary telephone & online counselling to those experiencing grief, trauma, or any socio-emotional concern. Free phone sessions are available on a short-term basis, after 6 sessions will be reviewed with supervisor, after which it will return to regular pricing. Our mission is to work with those who cannot afford traditional private therapy rates, are in eligible for public services, or face long waits for public services.Services offered in multiple languages (see website for language capacity).
604-531-7484
Peace Arch Hospice Society’s Supportive Care Centre is currently closed to the public until further notice BUT we continue to provide individual and group counselling support via telephone or video-conference to residents of the White Rock, South Surrey area who are grieving the loss of a loved one, experiencing end-of-life, or have a family member or friend who is dying. If you are new to seeking support, please email or call the office and leave a message; your call will be returned. We want you to know that you are not alone during this unsettling time. Email: contactus@pahospicesociety.org
604.531.9400
Office is open 8:30 am - 4 pm Mon-Fri with limited public access. Offering ongoing 1-1 counselling and will have more phone support available soon. Their new initiative Seniors Centre Without Walls will deliver services in partnership with community partners. No cost for services. Ric Dilworth, Caregiver and Family Support Coordinator, has completed; extensive studies in palliative care/hospice, in conjunction with completion and implementation of acquired skills obtained through all levels of volunteer hospice training, as well as Traumatic Loss Facilitator Training (through BC Bereavement Helpline).
604-584-7006
Office closed to the public, but intakes, enquiries, and grief counselling services are available by phone or virtual services. They are currently working on ways to provide group support via remote tools, but are currently not offering any in-person support groups. Counselling is free. They are also looking for volunteers to help in hospice care after the COVID-19 situation resolves, offering remote/virtual training. For more information, please call or email info@surreyhospice.com.
Valley View Funeral Home - Surrey
Office: 604-596-8866
Office availability is only for families who are coming in to make funeral arrangements and limited to two family members. Currently offering telephone grief support. Offers bereavement support in Surrey to individuals throughout the Fraser Valley area who have experienced the death of a loved one under traumatic or violent circumstances. Contact for more information.
Terrace
250-635-3178
chair.terracehospice@citywest.ca
Terrace Hospice Society offices are closed but are available to reach through email or telephone contact only.
250-635-6707
1-877-635-6707
All sessions moved to phone sessions with video to come. All status First Nations covered by FNHA.
250-368-8311
Currently offering TeleHealth (telephone) & Online Therapy. Provides professional counselling services for a variety of subjects including grief, bereavement and trauma. Offers individual, child, and family appointments. Provides services to First Nations clients and communities. Fees for services. Call for more information.
Tofino
250-725-1240
While their office is currently closed, the telephone is checked daily and phone and video access to counselling services for anxiety and issues related to COVID-19 is available. Registered Clinical Counsellors can provide telephone counselling to children/youth and their families. New clients are welcome. They are offering assistance to seniors with food and medication delivery to the door. No cost for services. Email executivedirector@pacificrimhospicesociety.ca
Trail
The Compassionate Friends – The Kootenays
250-367-7456 or 1 866 823 0141
A non-denominational Non-Profit offering support to families who have experienced the death of a child of any age and from any cause. Support Group will not be offered during COVID-19 virus. Offering “Telephone Friends”, who compassionately listen, may be called at any time. Call for support or more information.
Vancouver
604-738-9950, Toll-Free 1-877-779-2223
A Toll-free, province-wide helpline that offers compassionate listening and referrals for individuals suffering from grief and bereavement. Services are confidential and free. Compassionate and caring volunteers are familiar with over 300 grief support services in 85 communities in our province. Also offers specialized grief and loss support for individuals who have lost loved ones to homicide or suicide. Support Groups & Training currently on hold. May offer virtual support groups at a later time. Please contact for more information.
604-738-7557
Office is currently closed, with counsellors working remotely. Appointments are available from Mon-Sun during mornings, afternoons, and evenings depending on counsellor availability. Please contact counsellors directly by calling our going to website. Provides remote individual, relationship, and family counselling via secure online video or phone. Sessions are available on a Sliding Scale Intern Counselling Program ($25-80 per session) or with a Registered Clinical Counsellor ($120-130). There is currently a waitlist for the Sliding Scale Intern Counselling Program. Dragonstone counsellors use a variety of approaches to offer holistic counselling that integrates mind, body, and spirit in healing. Dragonstone welcomes LGBTQ+ folks and people from all genders, cultures, and sub-cultures. English, Spanish, Cantonese, and Mandarin spoken.
604-537-4246
Open for virtual and phone counselling. One on One, individual, couples, and family counselling. Offers counsellors on a variety of different topics, including grief and bereavement. Sliding Scale Options available. Registered Counsellor. Call for more information.
604-257-5151
Non-denominational - Jewish Family Services now operates a Community Care Hotline from 9 am - 9 pm, 7 days a week. The number is 604 558 5719 or an email can be sent to communitycare@jfsvancouver.ca. This has been set up as an emergency response resource in light of COVID-19, to provide essential emergency services to anyone throughout Metro Vancouver. To contact us online, please visit our website www.jfsvancouver.ca to complete a form. Our staff are monitoring requests throughout the day and we will be in touch in 24 hours or less. Office hours (closed to public) Mon - Thurs 9am - 5pm, Fri 9am - 4:30pm. Contact via telephone or email only.
604-926-5496
Offering virtual/online counselling. A registered society that offers affordable counselling services in Greater Vancouver. They have professional counsellors, as well as Masters of Counselling students. Both daytime and evening appointments may be available on a sliding fee scale based on current circumstances. Counsellors have training in Bowen Family Systems Theory and offer individual, couple, or marriage counselling.
Living Through Loss Counselling Society
604-873-5013
During the COVID-19 crises our Society remains open in a virtual environment only, offering E-counselling support services to all residents of BC in need of grief and loss support. Fees and appointment booking are listed on the Society Web site. Alternatively, you may call or email to discuss your needs and to set up an appointment. Professional counselling offered at $120 -$130/hr and includes modalities such as talk therapies, EMDR (trauma), Neurofeedback (trauma, depression & anxiety). Supports many types of loss including: cancer, sudden death, traumatic loss, job loss, loss of culture, fertility problems, infant deaths, abortion, and more. Offers a variety of loss-related support groups typically that run for 6 weeks at a time and offered multiple times through out the year. Fees and dates can be found on our website. Please call or email if interested. Limited grants may be available to access professional counselling and support groups to low-income individuals. Currently offering Good Grief workshops, community education workshops, Learning Through Loss Group Program, short-term grief counselling, Supporting Youth workshops, and Supporting Youth Through Grief training program. Services provided in-office and via E-Counselling via: Phone, Email, Video Conference via ZOOM, Skype, Facetime, and text and chat modes.
Moving Forward Family Services
1-877-485-3054
Offering temporary telephone & online counselling to those experiencing grief, trauma, or any socio-emotional concern. Free phone sessions are available on a short-term basis, after 6 sessions will be reviewed with supervisor, after which it will return to regular pricing. Our mission is to work with those who cannot afford traditional private therapy rates, are in eligible for public services, or face long waits for public services. Services offered in multiple languages (see website for language capacity).
Rain Down Words – Writing Workshops
778-888-7134
Currently offering Virtual Grief Writing sessions (Zoom & Skype). Group sessions are up to two hours in length. Personal one-to-one grief writing sessions available (Zoom, Skype, Facetime) Personal session length determined by participant and facilitator upon registration. Debbie is a grief facilitator with the Lower Mainland Grief Recovery Society, and was a volunteer at VGH in the palliative ward.
S.A.F.E.R. (Suicide Attempt, Follow-up & Research)
778-888-7134 (VGH Access & Assessment Centre)
S.A.F.E.R. provides a suicide bereavement program as well as one-to-one counselling. 1-1 counseling may be available for those at very high risk due to a suicide loss. As of early May, S.A.F.E.R is currently in the process of transferring their suicide grief support groups to an online format. These free services are for Vancouver residents only.
Tapestry Counselling Centre
604-876-7600
Current office hours are 9am-5pm Mon-Sat, with evening appointments available Mon-Fri. Offering counselling through phone or Zoom. Provides individual counselling to adults, teens, children, couples, and families. Rates from $120-150 per hour. Call or email info@tapestrycentre.ca for a free 30 min consultation.
604-737-7305 Ext. 216
Currently offering tele-counselling and video counselling for bereavement. This is a free service for residents of the Vancouver area. Ongoing free virtual grief groups facilitated by clinical counsellors are also offered to the community (require pre-registration). For more information email counselling@vancouverhospice.org or call 604-737-7305 ext. 216
Vernon
The Compassionate Friends
250-558-5026 or 1 866 823 0141
Offering telephone service only.
New Hope (for Widows/Widowers)
250-545-6004
Office is open on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9am - 12pm. Currently closed to the public, but answering phone calls and emails during office hours. Services are free of charge, or by donation. Annual membership is $25.
Victoria
250-384-0408
Currently offering support groups through telephone & online, telephone emotional support, caregiver coaching through the telephone, webinar and podcast online. Join us for the launch of our first podcast, Caregivers Out Loud! https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/podcast/. A space to connect, listen and learn with other caregivers. Your host, Jodie McDonald, is a psychotherapist and social worker that specializes in boundary-setting, self-care, and education for caregivers. Insightful, authentic and heart-centered conversations with caregivers that highlight the joys, trials, and self-discoveries that come along with this rewarding and taxing position.
Vancouver Island Counselling Centre for Immigrants and Refugees
info@viccir.org | 778-404-1777
VICCIR's principal activity is to provide mental health counselling to immigrants and refugees living on Vancouver Island. We offer our services on a sliding fee scale, and for free when needed. We work with specially trained interpreters as required. In this way we seek to remove barriers to quality service and care for both individuals and families, whatever their economic or cultural context. Our offices are currently closed to the public due to COVID-19. Please contact us by phone or email. We continue to offer our services online.
250-385-7786
Central Baptist Church in Victoria, is currently offering telephone support. Will not be offering the GriefShare support group until the crisis has past, but can offer support, encouragement, and prayer over the phone. Office hours: 8:30am - 4:30pm (Mon-Fri).
Victoria Hospice Society - Bereavement Program
250-519-3040
In cooperation with the recommended precautions regarding COVID 19, the Victoria Hospice Bereavement Services office is closed and our team are now working remotely. Counselling sessions continue to be available from Monday through Saturday to new and existing clients via phone and ZOOM videoconference calls. All bereavement groups and workshops are postponed indefinitely. Phone messages are retrieved daily and you can expect a response within one to three business days. For more information or to request support, please call and leave a message. Please check the Victoria Hospice website for the most up to date information.
250-380-6883
Available remotely by phone or online support. Office hours are 9:30 - 3:30 (M-W). Email info@victoriapregnancy.org.
West Vancouver
North Shore Neighbourhood House
604-987-8138
Offering emotional support by telephone. Trained older adult volunteers offer 1-1 free counselling to guide and support their peers (55+) through difficult situations such as new living arrangements, relationship concerns, reduced income, bereavement, and anxiety or depression. Referrals are not required. Call for more information.
White Rock
604-531-7484
Peace Arch Hospice Society’s Supportive Care Centre is currently closed to the public until further notice BUT we continue to provide individual and group counselling support via telephone or video-conference to residents of the White Rock, South Surrey area who are grieving the loss of a loved one, experiencing end-of-life, or have a family member or friend who is dying. If you are new to seeking support, please email or call the office and leave a message; your call will be returned. We want you to know that you are not alone during this unsettling time. Email: contactus@pahospicesociety.org