Jeanne Burke- Circle of Life | Provincetown, MA ~ Cape Cod and the islands ~ New England

# Welcome

My perspective comes through my work with people in hospice as they approach end-of-life~ I have been providing heart-centered support and guidance to people in transition and their loved ones since 2007. This experience informs my approach with individuals, couples and families as they get clear on the practical steps necessary to prepare for transitions and end of life. It also allows me to refer to a range of highly qualified professionals and learning resources to add to a family’s toolbox. My approach is holistic~ I wish for everyone to feel prepared for their final days on many levels~ practically, physically, emotionally and spiritually.

A perennial learner, I am continually seeking new resources to support the individuals and families I work with. (I am comfortable calling myself out as a nerd!) After earning my Masters degree, I moved to San Diego where I completed over 2000 clinically supervised hours in both hospice and hospital settings. My clinical training includes the study of~ Multifaith Spiritual Counseling, Tibetan Buddhism and mindfulness practices (Shambhala), Contemplative Practices in World Religions, Non-Violent Communication based on Marshall Rosenberg’s work (may he rest in peace), and family systems theory based on Virginia Satir’s work. While my approach is mindful and contemplative by nature, I do not expect you to ascribe to or hold any particular spiritual beliefs to work with me!

I am passionate about and committed to improving the understanding of death, dying and end of life within the LGBTQ community and to improve healthcare providers understanding of how to compassionately care for and relate to their LGBTQI patients.

Certifications include: Mindfulness Instructor through Naropa University and Shambhala International;and Trainer for Project Visibility, a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Cultural Sensitivity Training developed by Boulder County Aging Services.

#### Community Involvement

Since the late 80’s I have been active in the LGBT community and served as a Board Member of the Greater San Diego Business Association (GSDBA)– San Diego’s Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. I had the honor of Co-Chairing the GSDBA’s Engaging Aging Professional Affinity Group while on their Board. In San Diego I hosted several Death Cafes for the LGBTQI Community and am happy to talk talk about death, dying and end of life experience with anyone! You will often see me volunteering at different community and fundraising events and involved with initiatives that support lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) seniors in particular.

“Tell me, what is it that you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”

~ Mary Oliver