Funeral practitioners meet the public’s needs under the worst circumstances, providing closure and comfort at the onset of grief. This course reviews the stages of grief, coping mechanisms, types of loss, and the new normal for grieving families. It covers cultural considerations to help professionals serve diverse communities and examines compassion fatigue, a condition affecting those who feel they can no longer give.

• Understand the different stages of the grieving process after the death of a loved one
• Understand how bereaved individuals will eventually enter into a new “normal life” after loss
• Describe various coping mechanisms and best strategies for assisting grieving families
• Explain the difference between healthy and unhealthy grieving practices
• Recognize differences in grieving practices among diverse cultures
• Identify signs of compassion fatigue and what funeral professionals can do to maintain their emotional health

Funeral professionals at all levels of experience