Haven Hugs & Bugs. An innovative multiple-family weekend intervention for bereaved children, adolescents and adults

This article describes the development and implementation of a unique, two-day therapeutic program for bereaved families. Issues relevant to program design are presented along with evaluation results. The family focus, the therapeutic value of nature, and the relationship of this program to Multiple Family Therapy, time-limited psychotherapy, and wilderness, camping, or recreation therapy approaches are discussed. Questions and suggestions for future evaluation research are noted. The high potential therapeutic and cost-effectiveness of such innovative approaches to bereavement counseling should motivate further program development and outcome research. Information on other weekend bereavement programs is appended.