What GriefShare Groups Are

GriefShare is a structured support program where people who are grieving meet in small groups, usually at churches or community centers, to work through loss together. The program uses a combination of video lessons, workbooks, and group discussion. Each session typically lasts about two hours and follows the same curriculum week to week, so the content is predictable and you know what to expect when you walk in.

The program was created in 1992 by a team that included a pastor and a grief counselor. It is now run by a nonprofit organization, and groups operate in all 50 states and in several countries. Most groups meet weekly for 13 weeks, though some run longer or shorter depending on the group's choice.

GriefShare is not therapy or counseling — there is no therapist leading the group, and no one is diagnosing or treating you. It is peer support: people in similar situations talking to each other, guided by a structured program. If you need one-on-one counseling, you would pursue that separately.

Key Takeaways

  • GriefShare groups meet weekly in person at churches, community centers, and other locations, and each session follows the same 13-week curriculum.
  • Each meeting includes a video lesson, a workbook activity, and time for the group to discuss their own experiences and losses.
  • You can find groups through the official GriefShare website by entering your zip code, or by calling churches and funeral homes in your area to ask if they host a group.
  • Most groups charge a small fee for the workbook (typically $15 to $30), though some groups cover the cost or offer it free.
  • You can join a group at any point during the 13-week cycle, and you do not need to have a specific type of loss or be at a particular stage of grief.

What Happens During a GriefShare Meeting

A typical meeting starts with informal time — people arrive, get coffee or tea, and talk casually for 15 to 30 minutes. This is not structured; it is just people connecting before the formal session begins.

Then the group watches a video lesson, usually 20 to 30 minutes long. The videos feature grief counselors, pastors, and people who have experienced loss talking about a specific topic — for example, "Facing Anger," "Embracing Your New Normal," or "Why?" Each video is the same for every GriefShare group in the country that week, so the curriculum is consistent.

After the video, people work through a workbook section related to that week's topic. The workbook has reflection questions, journaling prompts, and sometimes worksheets. You work on this individually or in pairs, not as a whole group.

Finally, the group gathers to discuss what they heard and what they are experiencing. A facilitator (usually a volunteer, not a paid counselor) guides the conversation, but the focus is on what group members want to share. People talk about their losses, what is hard right now, what has helped them, and what they are learning. Participation is voluntary — you never have to speak if you do not want to.

How to Find a GriefShare Group

The official GriefShare website has a group finder tool. Go to griefshare.org, click "Find a Group," and enter your zip code. The search will show you groups in your area, their meeting times, the location, and contact information for the group leader.

If the website search does not show groups near you, or if you want to confirm a group is still meeting, call local churches directly. Many Protestant churches host GriefShare groups, and some Catholic churches, funeral homes, and community centers do as well. Ask if they run a GriefShare program and when it meets.

You can also contact a local funeral home and ask if they know of groups in the area. Funeral directors often have a list of grief support resources and may know when groups are starting new sessions.

Cost and What to Bring

Most GriefShare groups charge a fee for the workbook, which is usually between $15 and $30. Some groups ask for payment upfront; others collect it at the first meeting. A few groups cover the cost themselves or ask for a donation instead of a set fee.

When you contact a group to join, ask about the cost before you show up. If cost is a barrier, mention that to the group leader — some groups have scholarships or can waive the fee.

Bring the workbook to each session (the group will give it to you at the first meeting or when you register). You do not need to bring anything else, though some people bring a notebook for extra journaling or notes.

Who Attends GriefShare and What Types of Loss Are Covered

GriefShare groups include people grieving all types of loss: the death of a spouse, parent, child, sibling, friend, or other loved one. People attend after sudden deaths, after long illnesses, after suicide, after accidents. The group is open to anyone who is grieving, regardless of how recent the loss is or how long ago it happened.

The curriculum does not focus on one type of loss. Instead, the weekly topics — like "The Grief Journey," "Facing Loneliness," "Rebuilding," and "When Grief Hits Hard" — explore to most people who are grieving, no matter who they lost. If you lost someone years ago and are still struggling, you can join. If you lost someone last month, you can join. The group does not separate people by type of loss or timeline.

Some groups may have a secondary focus. For example, a group at a church might emphasize faith and spirituality, while a group at a community center might be more secular. When you contact a group, you can ask about the tone and whether faith is part of the discussion.

What to Expect in Your First Meeting

Arrive a few minutes early so you can meet the facilitator and get oriented. The group leader will explain how the meeting works, give you the workbook, and answer any questions. You will not be put on the spot or forced to introduce yourself to the whole group.

During the first meeting, people usually introduce themselves briefly — just their name and who they lost, if they want to share. You can say as much or as little as you want. Many people listen quietly during the first week and start talking more as they get to know the group.

If you decide the group is not a good fit after the first meeting, you can stop coming. There is no commitment, and groups understand that people sometimes try a group and realize it is not what they need.

GriefShare Online and Other Formats

GriefShare also offers an online version for people who cannot attend in person or prefer to meet virtually. The online program works similarly — you watch the same videos and work through the same workbook — but you do it from home, usually on your own schedule. Some online groups have live video meetings where you can see and talk to other participants; others are self-paced.

To find an online GriefShare group, use the same group finder on griefshare.org and filter for online options. You can also look for GriefShare groups on Zoom or other video platforms.

Some churches and organizations also run GriefShare DivorceCare, which is a separate program using the same format but focused specifically on grief after divorce. If you are grieving a divorce, ask the group leader if they offer that program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to believe in God or be religious to join a GriefShare group?

GriefShare was created by Christians and many groups meet at churches, so faith is often part of the conversation. However, groups vary — some are explicitly faith-based and others are more general. When you contact a group, ask about the spiritual tone so you know what to expect. You are not required to participate in any religious part of the discussion.

Can I join a group if I am still in the early stages of grief?

Yes. People join at all stages — some within weeks of a loss, others years later. The curriculum is designed to meet people where they are. If you are very early in your grief and feel overwhelmed, that is normal, and the group can be a place to be around others who understand.

What if I miss a week or have to leave early?

Most groups are flexible about attendance. If you miss a week, you can catch up by reading the workbook section on your own, and the next week you will be back on track with the group. If you need to leave early, let the facilitator know and you can step out quietly. The group does not track attendance or penalize you for missing sessions.

Is GriefShare the same as grief counseling or therapy?

No. GriefShare is peer support led by trained volunteers, not therapy. If you are struggling with depression, suicidal thoughts, or complicated grief, you should also see a counselor or therapist in addition to attending a group. GriefShare and professional counseling can work together.

How much does it cost to start a GriefShare group if I want to lead one?

If you are interested in starting a group at your church or organization, GriefShare offers training and materials for group leaders. Contact GriefShare directly through their website to learn about the cost and requirements for becoming a facilitator.