An Interview with Program Director Jason Kieffer, LCPC
In recognition of Grief Awareness Day (August 30), we want to introduce you to our Program Director, Jason Kieffer, LCPC.
Since joining the Cancer Support Center in 2013, Jason has been driven by a profound commitment to the mission and the people served, guided by a “people over profit” approach. With extensive experience, he is passionate about providing compassionate support to those navigating the complexities of cancer and loss.
“It is hard to describe how a sense of community can make you feel a sense of hope—one that maybe you thought you would never experience again.”
Jason firmly believes there is no “right” or “wrong” way to grieve and finds immense value in fostering a community where people can connect and offer support that only those who have “been there” can provide.
“Grief is not linear, and there are no stages of grief.”
Supporting Individuals Through Grief
Grief is a deeply personal experience. Jason emphasizes that everyone grieves differently, and there is no single path through loss.
Most people are trying to adjust to life without their loved one, and his role is to be a supportive presence while individuals navigate intense and complex emotions.
Common Misconceptions About Grief
One of the most common misconceptions Jason encounters is the idea of the “stages of grief.”
While often used as a framework, this concept can be misleading. Grief does not follow a predictable order, and the original stages were developed to describe someone facing their own death—not those grieving a loss.
People sometimes use these stages to measure their progress, which can lead to frustration or self-judgment when emotions resurface.
In reality, grief is an ebb and flow—not a straight line.
The Power of Community
Beyond bereavement, the Cancer Support Center supports anyone impacted by cancer at any stage of their journey.
Jason highlights that one of the most powerful aspects of CSC programs is the sense of community they create.
Even individuals with strong support systems may feel isolated. Connecting with others who share similar experiences often creates an immediate and meaningful shift.
While individual counseling is valuable, there are forms of understanding and connection that only happen in group settings.
A Message to Those Grieving
To those experiencing grief, Jason shares:
“I’m truly sorry you’re going through this. It can feel like pieces of you have been taken away, and it’s hard to know when—or even if—you’ll feel like yourself again.”
He emphasizes that no one is alone in their experience.
At the Cancer Support Center, a community exists where individuals can both receive support and use their experiences to help others.
For many, that connection becomes a turning point—bringing a renewed sense of hope.
Upcoming Support Opportunity
Jason offers both group programs and one-on-one counseling for those coping with grief and loss.
His upcoming webinar, “How to Cope with Grief and Loss,” will take place on September 23 from 5–6 PM. The session will explore common reactions to grief, ways to support yourself and others, and help answer the question: “Is this normal?”
Whether grieving silently or seeking connection, this program offers a compassionate space to begin healing.
No matter where you are in your cancer journey—from diagnosis to survivorship to bereavement—the Cancer Support Center is here to walk beside you with care, understanding, and hope.
Leave a Reply