You do not have to carry this alone
Small, clinician-led groups for the people who love, live with, and care for animals. Whether you are grieving, bracing for a goodbye, or worn down from caring for others, there is a place for you here.
Clinical care, in good company
Our groups are clinical therapy groups, not drop-in peer support. That means structure, consistency, and a trained clinician guiding every session.
Specially trained clinicians
Every group is led by a clinician specially trained in pet loss and bereavement.
Small by design
Groups are capped so everyone has room to speak and be heard.
Insurance accepted
We accept most insurance plans. The self-pay rate is typically $25 per session.
Screened for fit
A short screening helps us place you in the group that fits you best.
Find your group
Dates are being finalized now. Complete the screening form to reserve your interest, and we will reach out as soon as your group is ready to begin.
The Last Command
A working or service dog is a partner, a protector, and often a key to independence. When that partnership ends, the loss is layered, and the people around you may not see all of it. This group is a space with others who understand.
- Handlers whose working or service dog has died
- Handlers whose partner has retired from service
- Police, military, service, and other working dog teams
Companions in Healing
For adults whose emotional support animal is part of how they cope day to day. Connect with others who understand that bond, and build practical ways to care for yourself on the hard days.
- Adults who live with an emotional support animal
- Anyone wanting connection with others who share that bond
Still By My Side
Grief can begin long before a goodbye. This group is for the time when your companion is still here, and every day holds both love and worry.
- Pet parents caring for an aging companion
- A serious or terminal diagnosis
- Facing end of life decisions, including euthanasia
Huellas en el Corazón
Un grupo en español para quienes están viviendo el duelo por la pérdida de una mascota. Aquà su dolor tiene un lugar. A Spanish-language group for those grieving the loss of a beloved pet.
- Sesiones en español
- Para adultos en duelo por una mascota
Refill the Bowl
You give so much to the animals in your care, often while carrying repeated loss, hard decisions, and very little time to recover. This group is a place to set some of that down and refill your own bowl.
- Rescue and shelter staff and volunteers
- Veterinary technicians and clinic teams
- Anyone whose work is caring for animals
Veterinary and Rescue Support Group
For veterinarians, rescues, and their staff. A monthly evening support group from the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement, for those who care for grieving pet owners and carry their own losses and compassion fatigue. This group is run by APLB, not The Gentle Paw. Visit their site for current dates and to register.
Three simple steps
Complete the screening
Fill out our secure online screening form. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Hear from our team
A member of our clinical team reviews your form and reaches out to talk about fit.
Join your group
Once your group is ready to begin, we will share the schedule and welcome you in.
Know someone who could use support?
We partner with veterinary clinics, veterinary social workers, rescues, and therapists. Share the screening form with your clients, or reach out and we can send printed brochures to your office.
Nyack, NY · Stamford, CT · Virtual
A DBA of Steady Compass Counseling Services, LCSW P.C.