The Power Of Community In Healing Grief With Dr. Micki Burns

The Power Of Community In Healing Grief With Dr. Micki Burns

 In this heartfelt episode of Unthinkable, attorney Kyle Bachus sits down with Dr. Micki Burns, Chief Clinical Officer of Judi’s House, to discuss the critical role of grief support for children and families. Born out of personal loss, Dr. Burns’ mission led her to Judi’s House—a Denver-based nonprofit providing free, trauma-informed bereavement services to families nationwide.

Dr. Burns shares how Judi’s House evolved from a small peer support group into a national model for grief care through its 10-session “Pathfinders” program. Listeners will learn how childhood grief—often hidden or unacknowledged—affects 1 in 11 kids in the U.S., and how community support, research, and training are transforming how we respond.

Whether you’re a grieving parent, a professional, or someone looking to help others through loss, this conversation shines a light on healing through compassion, structure, and purpose.

Key Insights:  

• Grief as Purpose: Dr. Burns’ personal experience with loss shaped her commitment to helping others through theirs.
• Judi’s House Mission: Offers free grief services for youth ages 3–25, including therapy, group programs, and family support.
• Evidence-Based Healing: The “Pathfinders” model helps families navigate grief through structured, trauma-informed sessions.
• National Grief Data: CBEM reveals 1 in 11 U.S. kids lose a parent or sibling by age 18—highlighting a public health crisis.
• Expanding Impact: Judi’s House supports a national network through education, training, and grief-informed research.
• Future-Focused: Graduate and post-grad professionals are trained annually to integrate grief care into their careers.
• Access Without Barriers: Families can receive services with just a phone call—no diagnosis, prior therapy, or insurance needed.
• Community-Funded: Judi’s House runs on donations and local events to ensure no family pays for care.

FAQ –  Childhood Grief & Community Support

What Is Judi’s House And Who Does It Serve?

Judi’s House is a Denver-based nonprofit that offers free grief counseling and support for children, teens, and young adults ages 3–25, along with their caregivers.

Why Focus On Childhood Grief?

Because 1 in 11 kids in the U.S. will lose a parent or sibling by age 18—an experience that often goes unaddressed, with lasting emotional and mental health consequences.

How Is The Grief Program Structured?

Judi’s House uses a trauma-informed, 10-session model called “Pathfinders,” which combines peer support with evidence-based clinical practices.

Is Professional Training Available?

Yes—over 20 graduate-level clinicians are trained each year at Judi’s House, spreading grief-informed care nationwide.

How Can Families Access Services?

Simply by calling. Families don’t need to know what kind of help they need. The team guides them to the right support, at any stage of grief.

How Is It All Funded?

Judi’s House operates on a $5 million annual budget funded entirely through community support—donations, grants, and local events.