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Our Flagship Program
Group Grief Recovery
Eight weeks. A small group. The action-based Grief Recovery Method. A path to actually move through the pain of loss — not stay stuck in it.
What to Expect
A Typical Week
Each session has a clear rhythm. By week two it feels familiar. By week eight, the rhythm is doing the work.
You’re welcomed in
Holly leads a brief opening that grounds the group, sets expectations for confidentiality, and reminds everyone that grief is normal — and that you’re not alone.
This week’s teaching
Holly walks the whole group through this week’s chapter from The Grief Recovery Handbook — new concepts, examples, and the action you’ll take this week.
Small-group reflection
You break into smaller pairs or threes to discuss the chapter, share what came up, and start the homework with someone alongside you.
Homework you actually do
Each week ends with one specific assignment to complete before the next session — small, doable, and the part of the method that actually moves you forward.
Is This the Right Fit?
Who This Program Serves
This program is for you if…
- You’ve experienced a significant loss — death, divorce, retirement, estrangement, or any of the 40+ loss types the method addresses.
- You feel stuck in your grief and want a clear path forward.
- You’re willing to do small weekly assignments between sessions.
- You can commit to attending all 8 weeks (give or take one).
- You want the support of others walking the same path — with the structure of a guided method.
You may want a different fit if…
- You’re currently in acute crisis — please reach out to a licensed therapist or call 988 first.
- You’d prefer total privacy. Consider one-on-one sessions instead.
- You’re grieving a pet specifically. Our Pet Loss Recovery program is built for that.
- You can’t commit to the full 8 weeks right now. That’s okay — contact Holly about a future cohort.
I never thought I could feel this kind of relief after losing my husband. Holly’s group gave me tools I actually use every day. This program changed my life.
Practical Details
Logistics
Format
In-person, weekly. Held at Holly’s gathering space serving Ocala, The Villages, and surrounding Central Florida.
Schedule
New cohorts begin on a regular cadence throughout the year. Contact Holly for the next start date.
Cost
Restoring Hearts Outreach is a nonprofit. Fees are kept accessible and scholarships are available. Reach out for current pricing.
What you’ll need
The Grief Recovery Handbook by Russell Friedman & John W. James (we’ll point you to it once you’re enrolled).
Ready to join the next cohort?
Reach out and Holly will share the next start date and walk you through what to expect. There’s no commitment until you’re sure it’s the right fit.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked
Do I have to share my story in front of the group?
No. Sharing is invited but never forced. Holly creates a confidential space where you participate at your own pace. Most people find that as the weeks go on, they want to share — but you can also do all the work privately and still benefit fully.
What if I miss a session?
Life happens. Holly understands. The chapters build on each other, so it’s best to attend all eight if possible — but you won’t be kicked out for missing one. Holly will help you catch up on the homework.
How is this different from grief therapy or counseling?
The Grief Recovery Method is education-based, action-oriented, and time-limited. It’s not therapy, and Holly is not a licensed therapist. Many people use the method alongside therapy. The two complement each other well — the method gives you structured action, therapy gives you ongoing support.
Will I have to read the book?
Yes — “The Grief Recovery Handbook” by Russell Friedman and John W. James is the core text. Each week’s session corresponds to a chapter. The reading is light and very accessible.
What kinds of loss does this address?
Over 40 types: death of a loved one, divorce, retirement, loss of health, career change, empty nest, loss of trust, loss of faith, estrangement, addiction (your own or a loved one’s), loss of a dream, and many more. If it feels like a loss, it counts.
Is this confidential?
Yes. Confidentiality is a core part of the method. What participants share in the group stays in the group, and Holly takes that seriously.
How much does it cost?
Restoring Hearts Outreach is a nonprofit and we keep fees as accessible as possible. Scholarships are available. Reach out to Holly for current pricing and any sponsorship options.
Service Area
Serving Central Florida
Where Holly Serves
Central Florida — in person across the region
Holly leads in-person Group Grief Recovery cohorts in Ocala and The Villages, with participants traveling from across Marion County, Sumter County, Lake County. Cohorts have included people from:
- Ocala
- The Villages
- Lady Lake
- Belleview
- Wildwood
- Summerfield
- Oxford
- Leesburg
- Fruitland Park
Outside this area? Contact Holly to talk about virtual options or community partnerships in your region.
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