About Allyson
Allyson Tufts is a bereavement counsellor, facilitator and author. She obtained her Death, Dying and Bereavement Certificate through Wilfrid Laurier University and in her private bereavement practice, she offers one on one and group bereavement counselling.
Allyson was born and raised in Belleville but is currently residing in Enterprise, Ontario. She is a celebrated graduate of the Social Service Worker Program at Loyalist College and a member of the College of Ontario Social Workers and Social Service Workers of Ontario.
Allyson’s extraordinary career has included roles with United Way Hastings & Prince Edward and Hospice Quinte. As the Palliative Care Coordinator for Hospice Quinte, Allyson supported palliative patients and facilitated grief support groups for children, youth and adults coping with loss. As a trained facilitator Allyson’s portfolio also includes SafeTALK – (Suicide Alertness for Everyone) and she’s trained in ASSIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training). As a dedicated champion for mental health, Allyson partnered with The Enrichment Centre for Mental Health as a Co-Facilitator for several grief groups that supported families who have suffered a loss by suicide. She has continued her partnership with the Enrichment Centre as a Community Counsellor specializing in grief. Allyson has also worked with Addictions and Mental Health HPE and the Belleville and Quinte West Community Health Centre to facilitate bereavement groups for their clients who are grieving the loss of a loved one.
Allyson is the author of two books including Korah’s Butterfly. Korah’s Butterfly is a children’s book that deals with grief. The beginning of a planned series, Korah’s Butterfly shares healing messages and provides guidance for children who have experienced a traumatic loss. The book sends a message of hope and healing for all ages. Allyson feels that the uplifting message in “Korah’s Butterfly” is a great story for young children dealing with grief and it can also be used as a comforting sympathy card for adults.
When not writing or counselling, Allyson enjoys time at home. She is the proud Mom of two incredible young adults Brock and Korah. She lives at the lake with her husband Stu and their lovable Bernese Mountain dog, River.