A Tulsa-based nonprofit is providing virtual grief counseling and support group sessions for Oklahomans mourning the loss of loved ones to COVID-19, on a pay-what-you-can basis.
The Tristesse Grief Center says their group sessions provide participants with "support from others who have a similar loss" and "healthy ways to express your grief."
"The chance of connecting and finally feeling like you're not the only one, and experiencing that maybe what you're facing is terrible but it's also normal and you're not the only one and you don't have to do it alone -- that feeling is invaluable," said community relations director Carolyn Yoder, reached by phone Tuesday.
Yoder said the virtual group sessions are open to all Oklahoma adults, led by licensed professional counselors and come with no commitment.
"It's all about you and your grief journey and what you're experiencing and how we can support you," Yoder said. "Give it a try. There is nothing to lose and a beautiful sense of peace and connection to gain, at your own speed, when you are ready."
Yoder said that for individuals who find a group setting is not ideal for them, staff will help match them with a counselor for individual sessions. The center offers similar support groups for individuals who have lost children, individuals who have lost their spouses, and those with loved ones who died by suicide.
As of Tuesday morning, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed at least 8,672 Oklahomans are known to have been killed by COVID-19.
More information on the Grief Center's services is available at their website or by calling 918-587-1200.
