Written by Toni Lavigne-Conway | Special to the Valley Gazette
Grief touches everyone, but no one should have to navigate it alone. Recognizing the emotional toll of loss and the need for personalized support, Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care (MVHPC) has introduced a new personalized bereavement program. The initiative will offer individuals one-to-one counselling intended to help process their grief and journey toward healing.
At the heart of this service is Ian Sernoskie, a local counsellor who brings both professional expertise and a deep connection to the community he serves. Born and raised in Barry’s Bay, Ian understands the unique values, culture, and needs of the Madawaska Valley. Currently working part-time with MVHPC as their Grief and Bereavement Counsellor, Ian also serves cooperatively as a Mental Health Counsellor with the Madawaska Valley Family Health Team.
His path to counselling began during his undergraduate studies at Trent University, where he earned an Honours Bachelor of Science in Psychology. After gaining experience in several fields, Ian completed his Master’s in Counselling Psychology through Yorkville University.
While his professional training included grief and bereavement support, Ian continues to deepen his knowledge in this area. He is currently pursuing additional certification in Death, Dying, and Bereavement through Wilfrid Laurier University.
“I’ve always had a strong interest in psychology and supporting others through difficult times,” Ian says. “To now be able to do that here, in my home community, is a real privilege.”
According to Jenna Stamplicoski, Coordinator of Volunteer and Bereavement Services with MVHPC, the organization is always trying to gear their programming to the needs of our community.
“We saw a clear need for this kind of support. There really isn’t anyone locally offering one-to-one bereavement counselling in our area. The closest services are in Pembroke or Renfrew, and often those programs have waitlists. And not everyone has the ability to travel weekly out of town.”
She further explained that MVHPC has adopted the Irish Hospice Foundation’s model of bereavement care, which is considered a best-practice framework in the field. This model outlines four levels of grief support, from general acknowledgment to professional one-on-one counselling. Having this new program for the community addresses grief support at the fourth level.
Both she and Ian acknowledged that grief is different for everyone, and although MVHPC organization offers numerous group sessions and various bereavement events, they may not necessarily resonate with everyone.
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