MISSION VIEJO : Aid in Coping With Fire Loss Offered

South County hospitals are trying to help fire survivors cope with last week’s disaster in Laguna Beach by offering seminars and support groups.

“People are in grief and shock right now,” said Katherine Sanchez, community relations director for Community Psychiatric Centers of Laguna Hills Hospital. “They need help in dealing with the stress in their lives.”

On Tuesday at 7:30 p.m., CPC Laguna Hills Hospital will offer a free support group meeting for South County residents affected by the fire. On Mondayat 7 p.m., Charter Hospital of Mission Viejo is offering at no charge a counseling seminar where a psychiatrist and an insurance agent will give advice on coping with the aftermath of the fire.

Also on Monday, South Coast Medical Center in Laguna Beach will gather a panel of mental health professionals to help survivors deal with subjects such as what post-disaster feelings are normal and where to get help.

Health care officials for the three facilities stressed that their programs aren’t limited to people who have lost their homes. Anyone who needs emotional help dealing with fire trauma is welcome to attend.

Also, all three facilities are offering hot lines where people can get in touch with a counselor over the telephone.

For information and counseling call:

* Community Psychiatric Centers of Laguna Hills, (714) 831-1800.

* Charter Hospital of Mission Viejo (800) CHARTER.

* South Coast Medical Center, (714) 499-7501.