Monarch Center for Hope and Healing

Hope & Healing for Children & Teens

It’s about Caring

Children express grief differently than adults.

Sometimes their expressions, or seeming lack of expressions, are mistaken for signs that they are not affected by loss. Just the opposite is true. Silence can be a mask for repressed unresolved grief that can manifest as acting out and into adulthood as unhealthy behaviors. Adults may think the child is doing well, when, in fact, he or she is dealing with confusing and frightening emotions.

Our childhood specialists are highly trained at recognizing signs and gently drawing out painful feelings in an effort toward healthy resolution of grief.

Resources such as sand trays, play therapy, animal-assisted therapy, media, music, dance or writing are helpful methods. Our two children’s rooms are ideal settings where kids can feel safe in play activities with groups or in private sessions in their very own room.

Children’s Programs
  • Individual and Family Counseling 
  • School Counseling–individual and group
  • HeARTStitches    
  • Camp Mariposa
Camp Mariposa

Since 2002, our bereavement camp for children ages 5-12 has provided healthy guidance for any child in our community who has endured the loss of a loved one.

Camp Mariposa has a dedicated home where youngsters engage in activities such as:

  • Hand- and face-painting to express feeling
  • Handcrafting wooden butterflies for keepsake
  • Creation of “memory boxes” for families
  • Outside games to release energy and tension
  • Animal therapy may consist of trained dogs or pony shows


Finally, the children write a letter to their loved one, which is read aloud to the audience of parents and peers. Camp ends with the magical Butterfly Release, an event that culminates the experience for all and offers hope for the future.


Teen Programs

Individual and Family Counseling

School Counseling –  individual and group

Teen Tuesdays—an informal discussion group for ages 13-18 where teens feel comfortable in a safe setting

Club Soul—location-based camp experience for 13-18 year olds. Explore an exciting new location each time (see the calendar for details)

School System and Law Enforcement

Due to our networking with both the school district and awareness programs through the police department and sheriff’s office, our counselors are well connected for referrals.