Upcoming sessions
Sessions run monthly in Canberra. They're free, informal, and you don't need to book ahead, though we love knowing you're coming.
Sessions are held on the third Wednesday of the month unless otherwise noted. Sessions run 5:30–6:30pm at Monster Bar at Ovolo Nishi. We meet at the long green table by the Edinburgh Avenue entrance. All sessions are free to attend and we encourage you to buy yourself a beverage.
5:30pm · Monster Ovolo Nishi · Free
Each session has a loose structure. Here's roughly what to expect:
We'll be there a few minutes before the start time. You can buy a tea, coffee or other beverage at the bar. You don't need to know anyone, in fact most people don't when they first join.
The facilitator opens the session with a brief welcome and a reminder of our group agreements. Everyone shares their first name and, if they want to, a word or two about who they lost.
Each session has a loose theme, for example coping strategies, surprises in grief and nagivating relationships. The theme is a starting point, not a constraint - our conversations go where they need to go for the group there on the day.
Sharing is optional and encouraged if you are ready to. It's absolutely fine to just listen.
Booking isn't required, but it helps us prepare the space. You can let us know you're coming via email. Walk-ins are always welcome.
That's completely normal. Some group members come for several sessions to listen before they're ready to contribute. We are also available to have a phone call before you attend to tell you more about the group and what you can expect at a session.
Not at all. People come who lost their parent last month and people who lost their parent decades ago. Grief doesn't work on a schedule.
You're in good company. We always on have tissuess on the table. There's no shame in having feelings at a grief support group, that's what it's for.
Yes. At the start of each session we ask everyone to agree to keep what's shared in the room.
We're working on expanding nationally. If you'd like to bring DPS to your city, we'd love to support you.
Start a group in your city