The schedule is in some ways dictated by the mood of the group. Usually it's something they haven't experienced before nor has their peer group, so they can't really turn to friends for understanding. Being with other teens who also have experienced a loss provides a great support group and helps them understand they aren't the only ones who feel the way they do. They talk about what doesn't work and learn some positive, healthy alternatives. One thing we have discovered that seems to be universal among the teens is wanting to share the person whom they lost.
Teens are incredibly capable and insightful.
Once they see they are not alone and there are resources to help them, they open up. They begin to encourage one another by the end of the program and they are willing to receive support. It's a wonderful healing process.