Point Park University is advancing its funeral services program by integrating mental health support for grieving families into its curriculum. This initiative aims to equip students with the skills necessary to extend care beyond the logistical aspects of funeral arrangements. The university has formed a partnership with the Highmark Caring Place, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing peer support for grieving children and their families.
Students enrolled in the funeral services program will receive mentorship from mental health professionals on how to assist children during the grieving process. According to Becky Spritz, dean of Point Park’s School of Arts and Sciences, there are common misconceptions about discussing grief with children. “We know that involving children and teens and even young adults in the process of the funeral service is a really important part of their grieving and their understanding,” she stated.
The curriculum will include training on various aspects of grief, including developmental considerations and cultural differences surrounding death. This comprehensive approach aims to provide students with a deeper understanding of how grief impacts individuals at different stages of life. Spritz, who holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, emphasized the importance of integrating mental health skills into funeral services.
As part of the course, students will learn about the supportive services offered by the Caring Place, which include peer support groups designed to connect young people who have faced similar losses. Catrice Moffett, program director at the Highmark Caring Place’s downtown location, noted that this collaboration presents an opportunity to raise awareness about the free services available to families.
“Funeral directors are uniquely positioned to recommend these services,” Moffett explained, highlighting the ongoing nature of the grief process that begins during funeral preparations. The partnership also offers students volunteer opportunities at the Caring Place, allowing them to gain practical experience while serving the community.
This innovative approach to funeral services reflects a shift towards a more holistic model of care. Spritz expressed enthusiasm for how this partnership could reshape funeral preparations in the region by incorporating mental health support. “For them, it’s really about giving back to the families,” she said. “It’s about creating a powerful, meaningful experience.”
Moffett added that many individuals entering the funeral service profession are driven by a genuine desire to care for the families they serve. In the continuum of care for grieving families, funeral directors play a critical initial role, while organizations like the Caring Place provide long-term support.
The collaboration between Point Park University and the Highmark Caring Place not only enhances the educational experience for students but also aims to strengthen the support network available to grieving families. As students prepare to enter the field, they will be equipped with valuable skills that extend beyond traditional funeral service practices, fostering a more compassionate approach to grief and loss.
