GUIDING PRINICIPLES

The Nightside is built on the belief that thoughtful conversations about death can help us live more intentionally. These guiding principles inform my approach and how I support you.

WHAT I BELIEVE IN

  • Acknowledging the inevitability of death can help us live more fully in the present moment, and can also help us prepare for the end of life with greater peace of mind. I encourage clients to think about their own mortality and to explore their values, beliefs, and fears around death.

  • Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, especially during difficult and vulnerable moments. Compassion involves being present with my clients, listening deeply to their needs and concerns, and providing support and guidance that is rooted in empathy and that honors their unique needs and wishes.

  • I’m committed to creating a welcoming space for all clients, regardless of their race, gender, sexuality, religion, or any other identity marker. As an anthropologist, I understand the importance of not imposing my own beliefs or cultural values on others.

    I respect the diversity of cultural and religious beliefs surrounding death and dying, and I strive to approach each client with openness and curiosity. I provide resources and referrals to clients who may require additional support outside of the scope of my services, in order to ensure that all clients have access to the support they need.

  • Clients have the right to make informed decisions about their own care, and that they should be supported in those decisions, even if they differ from those of their family members or healthcare providers. I prioritize informed consent and clear communication throughout the end-of-life process, ensuring that clients have the information they need to make empowered choices.

  • I am committed to collaborating with other organizations and individuals in the community, including death doulas, funeral providers, alternative healers, and anyone else who can help ensure that the dying and grieving receive the compassionate care and support they deserve.

    Together, we can create a more integrated approach to end-of-life care that truly meets the needs of our communities.

  • I believe that clients have the right to confidentiality and that their personal information should be treated with the utmost respect and care. I am committed to maintaining strict privacy policies and protocols, and to ensuring that all communication and documentation is secure and protected.

Rights of the Dying

In addition to my guiding principles, I’m committed to upholding the following Rights of the Dying, written by Home Hospice Association.

I believe that every dying person possesses these rights:

  • Right to die well

  • Right to die amongst those who love me

  • Right to talk about death

  • Right to express my feeling and emotions about death

  • Right to express my understanding of death

  • Right to ongoing health care

  • Right to be cared for by caring sensitive knowledgeable people

  • Right to be cared for by those who can maintain hopefulness however changing that may be

  • Right to have my questions answered honestly

  • Right not to be deceived

  • Right to participate in decisions concerning my care

  • Right not to be judged for my decisions

  • Right to expect that the sanctity of my body will be respected