Grief Therapy in San Carlos and Burlingame, California
Grief is like the ocean; it comes in waves, ebbing and flowing. Sometimes the water is calm, and sometimes it is overwhelming. All we can do is learn to swim.
Vicki Harrison
Navigating Grief Counseling Together
Are you searching for grief therapy near me? Losing someone or something that is meaningful to you can be one of life’s most profound challenges. Many people think grief is only tied to losing someone. Grief more broadly can be the loss of what was familiar including the loss of a loved one, the loss of an intact family (divorce), loss of ability (injury/illness), a friend, a pet, a house, a job, a relationship, a place that was once familiar to you and is no longer accessible. Grief is a complex and deeply personal experience that can manifest in many forms—emotional, physical, and even spiritual. It often feels like a rollercoaster of emotions, where moments of sadness can be intertwined with anger, guilt, and confusion. Know that there is hope and healing available for you through grief counseling.
You might find yourself reminiscing about cherished memories one moment and feeling overwhelmed by a wave of sorrow the next. It’s common to feel isolated, as if the world has moved on while you’re still navigating the heaviness of loss. Grief can also challenge your sense of normalcy, making it hard to engage in daily activities or find joy in things that once brought happiness. I am ready to walk step by step with you to find the hope you are looking for!
Your Tears are Welcomed in Therapy
You do not have to pretend everything is okay. As your grief therapist, I invite you to come as you are. I am honored to work with you and hear your stories of people, pets, or places that you have lost or are missing. Together we will create a sacred place to remember what you have lost. We will also transform your experience of grief to help you find meaning and gain the tools to help you navigate grief.
What Can a Grief Therapist Help With
Understanding Your Emotions
A grief therapist offers a supportive space to explore the complex emotions that arise after a loss. You may find yourself experiencing a whirlwind of feelings—sadness, anger, guilt, or even relief—which can be confusing and isolating. I can help you make sense of these emotions, validating your experiences, and allowing you to express your feelings without judgment. By acknowledging and understanding your grief, you can begin to find clarity and navigate your journey towards healing.
Coping Strategies
In the wake of loss, everyday life can feel overwhelming. Grief therapy provides you with practical coping strategies to manage your emotions and the challenges that come with them. Whether it’s learning mindfulness techniques, journaling, or developing a self-care routine, I can guide you in finding healthy ways to cope with your grief. These tools not only help you process your emotions but also empower you to engage with life again at your own pace, fostering resilience in the face of heartache.
Honoring Your Loved One
One of the most profound aspects of grief counseling is the opportunity to honor the memory of your loved one. Through guided discussions and reflective exercises, you can explore the significance of your relationship, share cherished memories, and celebrate their life. In my work with adults who experience grief, I often use aspects of art therapy including collages, creating a memory box, painting, drawing etc. to help clients honor what they have lost. By creating rituals or memorializing your loved one in a way that feels right for you, therapy can acknowledge your pain and the enduring love you hold in your heart.
Take the First Step Towards Grief Counseling
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by grief and unsure of where to turn, know that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. I am here as your grief therapist to listen, guide, and walk alongside you as you begin to heal. Together, we can honor your loss and help you rediscover hope and peace in your life. Contact me to schedule your first session and take the first step toward healing.