Free grief workshop Sept. 9 at Hospice of North Idaho

Grief is one of the most common human experiences, touching every family and community, but people rarely discuss how to process it. 

Next week, Hospice of North Idaho is hosting two grief workshops with one of the top specialists in the U.S., Dr. Alan Wolfelt.

The free community workshop, centered on finding practical ways to support oneself and others through grief, is set for 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sept. 9 at the Hospice of North Idaho Community Services Building, 2290 W. Prairie Ave. 

Professional training on complicated grief for physicians, nurses, mental health providers, social workers, pastors, educators, first responders and others who support others through loss is set for 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sept. 10. The training costs $175. Therapists can earn continuing education credits. 

The programs will offer practical, evidence-informed guidance for community members and equip local professionals with tools they can use immediately. 

Wolfelt is an author, educator, clinical psychologist and grief counselor with more than 40 years of experience. He has authored 100 books on grief and directs the Center for Loss and Life Transition in Colorado. 

"What I appreciate about him is that he obviously has a huge body of knowledge, but his heart is as big as his knowledge," said Joanie Dwyer, a local faith-based grief counselor who became certified through Wolfelt's training. "He's so compassionate." 

Dwyer sought guidance from Hospice of North Idaho after the death of her husband 25 years ago. She joined a support group offered by the nonprofit, as well as a grief class offered by her church. 

Those experiences opened her eyes to how she could help others through grief. 

"What I enjoy the most is helping people not have to be afraid of their grief and then to find tools to help them process it," she said. "Everybody does this uniquely." 

Dwyer said Wolfelt can teach a lot in a short period of time. She believes community members will leave the event with valuable and practical information.

"When people understand grief, it takes away so much of the fear," she said. 

Registration: hospiceofnorthidaho.org