What Is It?

There is no such thing as a right or wrong way to grieve, nor one simple step-by-step progression of grieving.  Most human beings experience grief in their lives as a product of the loving and deep connections that they share with their friends, partners, and families.  It is important to understand that grief, unlike most experiences, is entirely involuntary.  The process of mourning refers to one's engagement in their grieving process, such as their ability or willingness to reminisce about or reflect upon the loss of a loved one.  Most people attempt to control how and when they mourn.  The process of grieving, however, is an out-of-control, unpredictable, and debilitating experience that can burden a person with intense feelings of sadness, fear, anger, shame, or guilt.

 

In therapy, we will create a space to shift the focus from the notion of "moving

on" without your loved one to the possibility of "moving forward" with whatever

memories or pieces you wish to bring with you.  I have been touched by the

courage of my clients who have shared such personal and intimate stories with

me in session, and I am passionate about this work.  I understand how crazy

and alone many feel after losing a friend, partner, or family member, as well as

the immense pressure one can feel from those in their lives to "move on" and

"get over it" after a few weeks or months pass.  Rather than judge the quality

or efficiency of your grief, we will work together to help you experience your

memories of your loved one, explore your feelings toward yourself and the rest 

of the world, and identify your values and meanings that allow you the courage 

and emotional safety to move forward.