Hospice of Marion County focuses on art therapy while reaching out to people who are suffering

Hospice of Marion County is trying to send a message to county residents struggling with grief: Its counselors are there to help for free.

Empath Health in Ocala held an open house Friday focused on using art to express those powerful feelings of pain.

Awilda Santos lost her father six months ago and came to the open house with her mother. Santos said he thought it might be a good first step in the grieving process.

Joe Byrnes

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Central Florida Public Media

“People would think, ‘He painted a rock, like, what’s that going to do?’” she said. “But as you talk and paint, it really changes things and makes you feel like you can talk and then express yourself, not only through the artwork, but through talking to professionals and volunteers who really want to be here. and help.”

Grief Care manager Monika Morrissette said the program includes individual and group sessions and a day camp for children. Art therapy is part of the program.

“It takes the pressure off to say. “I’m hurt, I’m anxious, I’m depressed,” he said, “and it allows someone to … draw or paint what it looks like for them instead of maybe being able to verbalize it so they can process their pain in -a safe way.”

Morrissette said many feel isolated in their grief. Counselors walk them through the process, making sure they know what they’re feeling is normal.

It’s a lifelong journey, she said, and you can’t get past the pain, but they can begin to heal.

About 100 people have been referred to the pain therapy program in the past 11 months, including many children.

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