Frequently Asked Questions

What is Michael’s Place?

Michael’s Place is a community resource for people experiencing grief, those supporting someone who is grieving, and anyone who wants to better understand grief.

We provide compassionate, accessible grief support for children, teens, adults, and families at no cost, along with education and outreach for schools, workplaces, professionals, and community organizations.

Through peer support groups, navigation, workshops, school-based programs, and community education, we help people find connection, understanding, and practical support as they navigate life after loss.

Is Michael’s Place a Crisis Center?

No. Michael’s Place provides grief support, education, and guidance following a death, but we are not a crisis center or emergency mental health service.

Our regular hours are Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m., unless other arrangements have been made.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or needs immediate support, call or text 988 through the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or contact your local emergency or crisis services.

Schools, workplaces, and community organizations seeking support following a death can contact Michael’s Place at 231-947-6453 or GoodGrief@MyMichaelsPlace.net. We will respond as soon as possible during regular business hours, unless other arrangements have been made.

Does Michael’s Place provide counseling services?

No. Michael’s Place is a peer-based grief support organization, not a counseling or therapy center.

We believe people experiencing grief can benefit deeply from connecting with others who have experienced loss. Our staff and trained volunteer peers provide a safe, supportive environment to share experiences, be heard without judgment, learn about grief, and connect with others who understand. Licensed professionals oversee our peer-based programs to help ensure quality, safety, and appropriate support.

If someone would benefit from clinical counseling or other specialized care, we can provide referrals to appropriate community resources.

How can I begin using the services of Michael’s Place?

The best place to start is by contacting us. Call (231) 947-6453 or email GoodGrief@MyMichaelsPlace.net.

We’ll take time to learn a little about you, your experience with loss, and what kind of support you may be looking for. From there, we can help you explore the programs, services, and resources that may be a good fit.

You do not have to know exactly what you need before reaching out. We’re here to help you find a place to begin.

What does it cost to use Michael’s Place services?

Michael’s Place provides its in-house grief support programs at no cost to the individuals and families we serve.

We believe grief support should be accessible to everyone, regardless of income or circumstance. Our donors, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners make this possible.

Their support helps ensure that children, adults, and families can access compassionate grief support without the added burden of cost.

Some Community Support Services may have a small fee. If you have questions about a specific program or whether a fee applies, please call 231-947-6453. We’re happy to help.

How can Michael’s Place help my family after a death?

Grief affects everyone differently, and there is no single way to grieve.

Michael’s Place offers support and resources for children, teens, adults, and families as they navigate life after a death. Our programs provide opportunities to connect with others, share experiences, learn about grief, and find practical tools for moving through a difficult time.

For many people, one of the most meaningful parts of grief support is discovering that they are not alone. Connection with others who understand can provide a sense of belonging and reassurance during a time that can otherwise feel isolating.

How can I help a grieving friend?

There is no perfect thing to say or do when someone is grieving. Often, the most meaningful support is simply being present and letting the person know you are willing to listen.

You can help by:

• Acknowledging their loss rather than avoiding the subject.
• Listening without trying to fix or change their grief.
• Continuing to check in after the initial weeks and months.
• Offering practical help with meals, errands, transportation, or everyday responsibilities.
• Remembering important dates and anniversaries.
• Letting them grieve in their own way and at their own pace.
• Learning more about grief so you can respond with understanding and compassion.

Michael’s Place also provides guidance and education for family members, friends, employers, schools, and others supporting someone who is grieving.

Where is Michael’s Place?

Michael’s Place is located in Traverse City, Michigan at 1212 Veterans Drive, Ste. 100.  We serve individuals and families throughout northern Michigan.

Why is it called Michael’s Place?

Michael’s Place was named in memory of Michael Dendrinos, who died at the age of 14. Michael was the cousin of our founder, Chris Dennos.

The organization was founded in 2001 in response to the need for a place where children, teens, adults, and families experiencing loss could find understanding, connection, and support.

Why does Michael’s Place need donor support?

Michael’s Place believes that grief support should be available to everyone, regardless of income or circumstance. That is why our in-house grief support programs are provided at no cost to the individuals and families we serve.

This would not be possible without our community’s generosity.

Donors, sponsors, foundations, businesses, volunteers, and community partners provide the resources that allow Michael’s Place to offer accessible grief support, education, and outreach throughout Northern Michigan.

Your support helps ensure that no one has to grieve alone.

How can I help Michael’s Place?

There are many ways to help make grief support possible.

You can:

• Make a gift to help provide no-cost grief support.
• Volunteer your time and talents.
• Sponsor or support a Michael’s Place event.
• Provide an in-kind donation.
• Help share our resources and programs with someone who may need them.
• Bring grief education to your school, workplace, or community organization.

Every gift of time, talent, and resources helps build a community where grief is understood, support is accessible, and no one has to grieve alone.