Research Page

The below listed charts represent participants who have completed the “Growing Through Loss” Program.  While the grief process is different for everyone and it is impossible for grief issues to be completely resolved during the 12 session program, we found that 82% of females and 87.5% of males experienced a decrease in levels of depression upon completion of the program as measured by the Beck Depression Inventory.

Recent studies at the Indiana Juvenile Correctional Facility revealed  the average number of  losses per youth was 4.6.  The average age of incarceration was 15.  88% of these youth reported they used drugs and alcohol to cope with the pain and 43% revealed they resorted to self-mutilation behaviors in an attempt reduce levels of emotional pain. 

Indiana Juvenile Correctional Facility 473 Female Participants

Plainfield Juvenile Correctional Facility (120 Male Participants)

What Administrator’s Are Saying About the Program

“Growing Through Loss” courageously and experientially helps to heal our wounded children by allowing them to constructively release some of their hurt…I unequivocally endorse this program as an professional, effective and loving  treatment for our children in need.“ Lawrence Lennon, PH.D Clinical Psychologist

“Research tells us that traumatic loss is a precursor to acting out and involvement in destructive behaviors.  While I believe it is important to reach our students academically, it is equally important to address their emotional issues.  Students completing this program have shown an 85% reduction in levels of depression in the Indianapolis Public Schools.  This program has been a valuable tool in aiding these students through the grief process.”  Jacquelyn E. Clency, ED.D Director of Alternative Educational Programs, Indiana

“Given the numbers and kinds of losses our young men have played directly or indirectly in the offenses for which they are incarcerated at our facility, we must continue to give our young men opportunities to work through these losses if we hope to make even a dent in their criminal behavior.  I have noted in my observation of the young men’s behavior at our facility both in and out of individual group and family sessions how the “Growing Through Loss” program has given them the hope and the impetus and the skills to begin healing and recovering from a life time of losses.  Students not only have shared this with me and their families but have passed on what they have learned to their families and peers whom they have also spontaneously encouraged to join the program.”  Claudia Kelly, Behavioral Clinician

“This is perhaps the most thorough and effective program I have seen during the past ten years while working with very troubled adolescents.  Most programs respond to the symptoms and lack the capacity to help students address and resolve core feelings.  This program can help students address and resolve core issues."  Michelle Shaffer, LCSW

“I can’t begin to tell you how much the “Growing Through Loss” Program has helped me…I was full of hate and was an emotional wreck.  It saved my life!?”  Joey, Program Participant.“