#United States #Jersey City #INELDA #Grief Education #Kübler-Ross

INELDA and the Elisabeth Kübler-Ross Foundation Unveil a Groundbreaking Grief Education Series

In an effort to enhance the understanding and support surrounding grief, the International End-of-Life Doula Association (INELDA) has teamed up with the Elisabeth Kübler-Ross Foundation to launch a unique education series titled "When Grief is Present." This 15-hour program is targeted at end-of-life doulas, caregivers, healthcare providers, and anyone eager to improve their skills in accompanying individuals through the grieving process.

A New Approach to Grief Education

Set to commence on January 20, 2027, and concluding on February 8, 2027, this series will consist of six modules, guiding participants through the complexities of grief as a natural process that affects the body, heart, mind, and spirit. This initiative takes inspiration from the teachings of Dr. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, who has long been a beacon in the field of end-of-life care. Her son, Ken Ross, acknowledges that the continuation of her legacy through this series holds considerable significance, as it maintains her commitment to listening, learning, and treating individuals at the end of life with dignity.

The course emphasizes experiential learning, reflective exercises, and dialogues as a means to help participants develop a profound understanding of grief. By promoting self-awareness and enhancing their ability to be present during the grieving process, attendees will be equipped to offer more meaningful support.

Understanding Grief Through Individuality

The visionaries behind the course, including Wilka Roig and Omni Kitts Ferrara, stress that the program does not conform to a one-size-fits-all model. Rather, it aims to respect and honor each individual's journey through grief, promoting “listening, compassion, and respect for autonomy.” Participants will not only learn theoretical concepts but also acquire practical skills through lectures, discussions, and reflective practices.

INELDA’s Executive Director, Douglas Simpson, highlights the invaluable role that Dr. Kübler-Ross played as a human-centered caregiver throughout her career. This initiative seeks to build upon her foundational philosophy, embracing a holistic approach to grief.

Enrollment and Future Opportunities

The enrollment fee for this 15-hour class is set at $495, welcoming all learners regardless of previous training with INELDA. As the course progresses, it endeavors to nurture knowledge surrounding self-awareness and full-self listening, addressing the critical need for gentle accompaniment for those navigating grief.

In addition to the US-based series, INELDA is also preparing for its inaugural in-person doula training in Zurich, Switzerland—another nod to the influence of Dr. Kübler-Ross, who hails from this historic location. More details regarding the European training will be revealed in the future.

About INELDA and the EKR Foundation

Founded in 2015, INELDA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing education and advocacy for end-of-life doulas. Their mission centers around normalizing the conversation around death and enhancing compassion in death care. Meanwhile, the Elisabeth Kübler-Ross Foundation aims to preserve the ethos of its namesake by providing resources and education to facilitate compassionate care for the critically ill and grieving.

With this new series, both organizations are once again at the forefront of advocating for greater understanding and acceptance of grief as an intrinsic part of the human experience, ensuring that those in need receive compassionate and individualized support during their most vulnerable times.