Many people feel like they’re falling behind if they take too long to mourn, or worse, that they’re being a burden if they don’t quickly put on a brave face and soldier on. But the truth is, grief is not a task you can “complete.” It’s a process. A slow, often messy process, that demands we give it space and not rush through it.

Political events, particularly during divisive times like election seasons, can trigger feelings of mourning and anxiety that ripple across communities. This type of grief is often layered with fear for the future and a sense of powerlessness in the face of societal changes. In moments of collective grief, finding ways to heal and rebuild trust in both ourselves and our communities is crucial.

The talks of global war and the resulting collective trauma highlight the interconnected nature of our world. By acknowledging the psychological impact of these events and implementing strategies to support mental well-being, we can build a foundation of resilience that will help us weather the storms ahead.

The loss of an infant is an indescribable tragedy that no parent should ever have to endure. During such a heartbreaking time, the support of friends and family can be a lifeline. However, knowing how to offer meaningful and compassionate support can be challenging.

From ancient traditions to deeply personal ceremonies, rituals play a vital role in the grieving process, serving as anchors that help individuals navigate their journey of healing.

As a grief therapist here in the Greenlake area of Seattle, I've had the privilege of walking alongside individuals as they journey through their grief. One question that often arises during therapy is, "How do I know if this is working?" I want to shed some light on this question and offer some guidance on recognizing the signs that grief therapy is making a positive impact.

In the face of grief, many seek solace in various forms of therapy, self-help techniques, or support groups. Among these, meditation has emerged as a powerful tool for processing grief and navigating the turbulent waters of loss.

The aftermath of mass shootings shatter communities, leaving individuals and families to navigate a complex maze of emotions. Coping with these tragedies is a unique challenge, as it involves processing not only personal grief but also collective trauma.

Grieving the end of a partnership is a complex process that requires time, self-reflection, and compassionate self-care. In this blog post , I explore healthy practices to help you navigate the turbulent waters of heartbreak and emerge stronger, more resilient, and ready for the next chapter of your life.

In the face of war, emotions run high, and the overwhelming sense of helplessness can be paralyzing. As a Seattle grief therapist, I understand that these tumultuous times can bring about an array of emotions, leaving individuals grappling with despair and uncertainty. It's crucial to acknowledge these feelings and, more importantly, to explore constructive ways to cope with the helplessness that often accompanies such global crises.

Grieving during December is a distinct experience, as the world around us seems to be bustling with joy while we may be grappling with an internal storm of emotions. Whether it's opting out of certain traditions or establishing new ones, finding a balance between honoring the past and embracing the present is a key component of navigating grief during December.

As we reflect on the profound heartache of war, it's essential to remember that our shared humanity connects us in our collective grief. In doing so, we can work towards a world where war is no longer a cause for grief, but a testament to our capacity for compassion, understanding, and peace.

Autumn serves as a reminder that life is cyclical and that letting go is a natural part of the human experience. For many, this season can stir memories of loved ones who have passed away, relationships that have ended, or significant life transitions. It can be a bittersweet time when the beauty of transformation is intertwined with the ache of letting go.

The connection between childhood trauma and grief is intricate and multifaceted, with trauma survivors often facing unique challenges when dealing with loss. By recognizing these connections while engaged in grief therapy, one can better navigate the complex terrain of grief, ultimately finding healing and resilience in the face of loss.

As the first anniversary draws near, memories may come flooding back, both happy and painful. This time can be an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in healing and how the grief journey has shaped us as individuals.

Experiencing the death of a pet can be a heartbreaking experience, as they hold such a special place in our hearts and families. In this blog post, I’ll share some valuable insights and suggestions on how to offer comfort to someone mourning the death of their beloved companion.

When grieving the loss of a loved one who chose death with dignity, acknowledging and validating your emotions is important. You may experience a mix of feelings, including sadness, anger, relief, guilt, and confusion. Remember that these emotions are normal and part of the grieving process.

 One of the reasons why grieving in the spring can be difficult is that the world around us is coming to life. Flowers are blooming, trees are budding, and the air is filled with the sounds of birds and bees seeking nectar. While this may bring joy, it can also be a painful reminder of the people who are no longer with us. It can feel like the world is moving on without them, and it can be hard to find comfort in the beauty of nature when they are not here to experience it with us.

Breakups can be one of the most emotionally challenging experiences we may go through in life. Whether it's a long-term relationship, a marriage, or even a short-term romance, ending a romantic relationship can bring a profound sense of grief and loss. Grieving the loss of a romantic relationship is a complex and individual experience that affects people in different ways. In this blog post, I will explore the nature of grief and offer some help for how to cope with the pain and challenges of a breakup.

A cornerstone of grief therapy teaches that being with a person in grief requires active listening, patience, and flexibility. Offering your presence, acknowledging their pain, helping with practical tasks, encouraging self-care, and following up are all important ways to support someone during this difficult time.