FAQs
Your questions answered
What is the I Am Program?
The I Am Program is an evidence‑informed grief program that combines psychoeducation and personal development. It is designed to support children and young people navigating grief following the death of a family member. The program provides a safe, supportive space to build emotional awareness, coping skills, and a sense of connection.
Who is the program for?
The program is suitable for children and young people aged 7–17 who have experienced the death of a family member. Participation is recommended when at least 3–6 months have passed since the bereavement, allowing some initial adjustment time. The program is tailored to be age and developmentally appropriate.
How do I know if my child is ready for the program?
Every child grieves differently, and readiness looks different for each child. The I Am Program is suitable for children who have had some time since their loss (generally 3–6 months) and who are able to engage in gentle conversation or activities. An initial conversation can help determine whether the timing feels right for your child.
What does my child actually do in the program?
Children engage in guided conversations, creative activities, gentle body‑based regulation, and practical coping tools. Sessions are structured yet flexible, allowing each child to participate in ways that feel comfortable for them.
Is this therapy or counselling?
The I Am Program is therapeutic in nature but not a replacement for formal or trauma based mental health treatment. It offers emotional support, skill‑building, and grief‑informed guidance rather than diagnosis or clinical intervention.
What approaches are used?
The I Am Program draws from talk-based support, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) principles, strengths-based grief coaching, and established grief frameworks including the Dual Process Model and the McKissock Grief Model.
How is the program delivered and how long does it run?
The program is delivered online through weekly sessions and is offered in three aged based streams.
Ages 7-9: 45 minute sessions over seven weeks
Ages 10-12: 1 hour sessions over eight weeks.
Ages 13-17: 1 hour sessions over eight weeks.
Each participant receives a combined workbook and journal to support their engagement. Individual or sibling sessions are available when siblings fall within the same age group.
How will I know if the program is helping my child?
Caregivers often notice changes such as improved emotional expression, reduced overwhelm, increased confidence, or a greater sense of calm. Progress can be subtle and non‑linear — this is a normal part of grief.
What is expected of parents or caregivers?
Caregiver involvement varies depending on your child’s age and developmental stage:
Ages 7-9: Caregivers are welcome and encouraged to sit in and support their child's engagement during every session.
Ages 10-12: Caregivers are invited to attend Session 1 and Session 8, providing connection at the beginning and closure at the end of the program.
Ages 13-17: Caregiver involvement is guided by the young person’s preference and may occur upon the their request.
It is important to respect the child’s experience and allow the sessions to remain a space where their needs and expression are the primary focus.
What does the program cost?
For current pricing, please contact us directly. We’re happy to talk you through what’s included and answer any questions you may have.
Young Carers living in Victoria who are registered with Carer Gateway may be eligible to access the program fully funded. We can provide guidance on this process if relevant.