Are You Grieving the Loss of a Beloved Pet?

You are not alone.

Our pets enrich our lives. We think of them as family members. They stand by us through difficult times, love us unconditionally and provide us with companionship.

The pain we experience from their loss can trigger a variety of emotions — including anger, guilt, despair, and loneliness. These emotions are normal and it is important to have the opportunity to express these in a safe environment.

At the Rochester Center for Pet Grief and Loss, you and your pet will be recognized, honored, and validated as you develop skills to cope with your feelings.

Your cherished pet will always live on in your heart and in your memories. I look forward to meeting you and supporting your through your loss and move to healing.

Pet Loss Support Group

In this group, we work together to understand the human-animal bond and the impact on your life, explore the nature of grief, and provide you with an opportunity to share your story, honor your pet's memory, and nurture yourself.

Groups form on an ongoing basis with 2-5 people. They are held on Mondays 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. If there is sufficient demand, groups can be held in the afternoon as well.

These groups are now done on a secure online platform. No in-person groups are available at this time.

Individual Counseling is also available with Anne Marie. She is also available to speak on pet grief and loss for your group or organization.

Call Anne Marie at 585-615-5492 for more information or to register.

Facilitator:

Anne Marie Farage-Smith, LMHC

Cost:

$175 (4 Weeks)
Advance Registration & Payment Required.

Individual Support

As a New York State Licensed Mental Health Counselor and animal lover, I can provide a safe environment for you to explore your feelings. Individual counseling can be tailored to meet your needs, and is covered by most major health insurances and Employee Assistance Programs.

I offer Pet Grief and Loss Individual Counseling For:

• Individuals
• Families
• Elders
• Veterinary Staff Members, with special emphasis on Compassion Fatigue

Anne Marie Farage-Smith, LMHC

Anne Marie is an experienced, licensed mental health counselor with Counseling Connections. She specializes in counseling individuals experiencing grief and loss, and is passionate about assisting people through the loss of their beloved pets. She would be honored to assist you in your journey of healing.

Education

M.S. Mental Health Counseling, St. John Fisher College
M.S. Education, Nazareth College of Rochester

License

N.Y.S. Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Professional Memberships

Mental Health Counselors of Greater Rochester
New York Mental Health Counseling Association (NYMHCA)
American Counseling Association (ACA)
Monroe County Mental Health Counselors Disaster Team

About the Center...

Why was the Rochester Center for Pet Grief and Loss established?

The loss of a pet is sometimes not fully understood.

And, people who mean well may tell us, "it was only an animal" or "you can always get another one".

I understand your pain.

After experiencing the loss of family pets, and most recently the loss of my dog/special "buddy" Wishbone, I have found a growing need for support services for those dealing with the loss of a pet.

Don't be afraid to reach out.