Prolonged Grief

Group Therapy

Research Study

For Black/African American Adults

This year’s PGGT Group is full.

Thank you to everyone who has signed up. Please check back for more group offerings in the future!

Seeking Support for Your Grief Journey?

  • Join a free, 12-week Prolonged Grief Group Therapy (PGGT) program, created specifically for Black/African American adults seeking compassionate support in a culturally centered space.

  • This group is part of a research study by Case Western Reserve University and follows the Culturally Centered Prolonged Grief Group Therapy (CC_PGGT) Model by K.P. Supiano.

  • You’ll have a safe, supportive space to heal, with guidance from a licensed therapist.

  • Plus, you’ll receive payment for your time in each session.

What is Prolonged Grief?

Prolonged grief is a deep sadness after losing a loved one that doesn’t improve over time. Unlike typical grief, these strong feelings—such as sadness, longing, or guilt—stay intense, making it hard to move forward. People with prolonged grief may feel “stuck,” unable to enjoy life or connect with others as they used to.

Some common signs include:

  • Strong feelings of sadness that don’t lessen with time

  • Constant longing for the person who passed away

  • Difficulty accepting the loss

  • Avoiding reminders of their loved one

  • Feeling distant from other people

This therapy group is here to help you work through these feelings in a safe, supportive space with others who understand.

During these sessions, you will:

  • Receive support from others who understand your grief in a culturally centered space

  • Learn practical tools and coping skills to help manage grief and navigate daily life

  • Be compensated for your time and commitment to healing

Why Join?

This group is created to support the unique needs of the Black/African American community. Our sessions use language and content that respect and honor your background, providing a space where you feel understood and valued. 

Meeting virtually means you can join from the comfort and privacy of your own home, making it easier and more accessible for everyone. We also offer resources to support you outside of sessions, giving you the care and tools you need to heal.

Potential benefits

Free therapy in a culturally
sensitive environment.

Support from a licensed therapist and peers with similar experiences.

Receive a hard copy manual with helpful tools and resources.

Compensation provided for your time and participation.

Who’s Eligible?

  • Must be Black/African American

  • Lost an adult family member, loved one, or friend who died in a healthcare setting (hospital, home care, hospice, nursing home, etc.)

  • The loss occurred within the last 5 years

  • Experiencing difficult grief symptoms (feeling stuck, very sad, or unable to move on)

  • 18 years or older

  • Able to speak and understand English

Sessions: What to expect

  • Virtual sessions on a HIPAA-compliant, secure telehealth platform

  • Education on understanding and navigating grief

  • Guidance on setting personal goals and building self-care practices

  • Members encouraged to practice skills and track emotions between sessions

Pre-Group Intake:

An intake is your chance to make sure the group meets your needs and goals.

During this meeting you will:

  • Learn about prolonged grief and the benefits of group therapy 

  • Share your thoughts on why you’re considering the group.

  • Express any questions or concerns you might have about starting the group.

  • Go over expectations such as attendance, confidentiality, payment, etc.

Led By Kia Davis
Therapist & Registered Yoga Teacher

Kia is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years practice in healthcare and community organizations. She integrates treatment techniques like mindfulness and cognitive therapy for her with work adults recovering from complex PTSD, major life changes, and chronic stress. Many of her clients are Black, LGBTQIA+, and/or survivors of violent crime. She is certified yoga teacher and trained in Culturally Centered Prolonged Grief Group Therapy (CC_PGGT).

More information about Kia and her practice, Healing Journey Therapy & Consulting can be found here.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes! This group is free to join, and you will even be paid for attending each session.

  • The group will meet online once a week for 12 weeks. Each session lasts 2 hours and will include time to talk, share experiences, and learn strategies for coping with grief.

  • No previous therapy experience is needed to join this group. The research team and facilitator will go over this in more detail during the intake.

  • Yes, all sessions are confidential, and your privacy is protected.

  • Regular attendance is encouraged to get the most benefit. If you have specific concerns, please reach out to discuss options.

  • Group therapy, led by trained healthcare providers, focuses on lasting changes and proven strategies for mental health challenges. In contrast, support and self-help groups are not always guided by professionals and don’t have a medical/healthcare focus. Both offer fantastic emotional support. For more information, check out the American Psychological Association's overview at https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy/group-therapy.