FAQ

What is OUR HOUSE?


OUR HOUSE is a nonprofit, nonsectarian Grief Support Center. We offer grief support groups that are age and relationship specific for children ages 4-18 and adults. OUR HOUSE also offers School-Based grief support groups, Medical and Professional Education programs, Continuing Education Workshops, Post-Crisis Grief Intervention for businesses and the community,
grief support resources and referrals.

Do you offer grief support groups if I’ve just ended a relationship with a significant other?


No. Our groups are specifically for people who have experienced the death of someone close.

Who founded OUR HOUSE?


OUR HOUSE was founded by Jo-Ann Lautman in 1993 as a safe, healing environment for children, adults, and families coping with the death of someone close.   Read More About Our Founder

How are people referred to OUR HOUSE?


Although a referral is not necessary to join a grief support group, many people are referred to OUR HOUSE by physicians, clergy, school personnel, and mental health professionals.

What types of activities do children/teens participate in during support groups?


The program uses a variety of activities including conversation, art, play, and creative writing to encourage grief expression.

Who else will be in my group?


Groups are age and relationship specific.

OUR HOUSE offers groups for:
  • Adults who have experienced the death of a partner or spouse
  • Parents who have experienced the death of a son or daughter
  • Adults who have experienced the death of a mother or father
  • Siblings who have experienced the death of a brother or sister
  • General Grief- Adults who have experienced the death of a friend or relative
  • Spanish Speaking- Adults who have experienced the death of someone close
  • Children who have experienced the death of a Parent

How is OUR HOUSE funded?


As a nonprofit organization, OUR HOUSE relies on the generosity of its donors for funding. OUR HOUSE is supported by individuals, corporations, and foundations. We also host several annual fundraisers to support the organization.

How much does it cost to attend a grief support group?


Group fees are based on a sliding scale. No one is ever turned away due to an inability to pay.

A student/teacher at my child’s school just died. Can you help?


We offer Post-Crisis Grief Intervention for schools, businesses, and organizations within the community at your location
or at ours.

How do I join a group?


Please contact OUR HOUSE to schedule an individual or family intake appointment.

When and where are groups held? Can I drop in?


Groups are held weeknights, Monday-Thursday, at both our West Los Angeles and Woodland Hills locations. Due to the confidential nature of each group, we do not permit drop-ins. We want to ensure that each group becomes a supportive
and safe environment for its members.

Who leads the support groups?


Each group is co-led by two volunteer group leaders. All leaders are screened, trained, and supervised by licensed clinicians.

How can I support OUR HOUSE?


Volunteer: Become a Group Leader, help in our office, or participate in one of our Special Events.

Make a donation: Sponsor a grieving child or adult on their journey towards hope and healing or make a donation
In Honor or In Memory of someone.


For more information, please contact us at 310-473-1511 or 818-222-3344.