Brian Magee
Foundational Certification
Online Capabilities Trained
Advanced Grief Recovery Method Specialist
Email Specialist
Programs Presented In
English
About Brian:
For 20 years I was privileged to serve as Pastor for a small rural congregation near Lethbridge Alberta. In 2007 I was faced with some significant personal loss. I moved to a new career in funeral service and became a licensed funeral director in 2011.
Part of my motivation to enter funeral service was a desire to find better solutions for the pain of loss than those I had been using. In addition to my personal need, I had a strong desire to provide truly meaningful resources to other grievers. My search led me to an amazing little book called The Grief Recovery Handbook, by John W. James and Russell Friedman. This was the beginning of a life-changing journey.
In 2009, with the support and encouragement of my funeral home management, I was trained by John James and became a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist. The program was tranformational for me. I felt confident I had found the better way I had been seeking. Since then I have led multiple Grief Recovery groups through the sponsorship of the funeral home. In addition, I give talks on various aspects of grief, primarily in faith and health care settings. I have also led the Helping Children with Loss program, using the book "When Children Grieve," also by John W. James and Russell Friedman. I have recently received advanced training from the Institiute in order to provide some of our programs online.
It was through the Helping Children with Loss program that a partnership with funeral service colleague, Lorri Penner developed. Lorri is a Registered Social Worker and metal health therapist in Lethbridge and is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist. Lorri leads group and one-on-one grief recovery programs. She now partners with fellow colleague, Trudie Slomp in leading the group programs at Martin Bros Funeral Chapels.
Please check the program calendar on this page for upcoming program schedules.
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Our support groups offer a safe, evidence-based environment for grievers to take effective and lasting action, no matter the type of loss experienced. These groups are led by Grief Recovery Method Specialists, trained and certified by the Grief Recovery Institute.
This program is for people who prefer to work one-on-one rather than in a group setting. The 7-session format utilizes the same proven materials as the group programs and can be completed in-person or online with a Grief Recovery Method Specialist specifically trained to help people move through loss with dignity and respect.