Grief and Loss Counseling in Carrboro, NC.

Grief is a healthy and normal reaction most frequently related to the loss of a loved one or a special pet. However, grief can also manifest from one's loss of independence due to illness or disability, loss of employment, or an empty nest. My approach is different from stage-based views in that I believe grief is felt differently by individuals, depending upon relationships, attachments, and cultural values and norms. I match evidence-based practices to my clients personal values and experiences of grief. Together, we address grief symptoms and relieve distress, but also explore restorative activities, such as self-care and finding meaning in a new life without a loved one.

Losing someone, finding yourself in a new family situation, having to move to a new home, losing something valued, can be traumatic and deeply troubling. The base of a person's reaction to loss is often times grief. How do we deal with the emotions which are created by that loss, how do we continue on in the new situation, how do we cope with all of this, especially when we feel so lost? Working to discover and release those negative emotions associated with grief and loss has been found to be a very successful way. Utilizing the most successful approaches, I help individuals, couples, and families learn how to use the internal resources they already have to overcome grief and loss.

Grieving can be experienced in the death of someone you loved, or in a number of other areas including job transitions, moving, separation or break ups, having children, children leaving the home, or other ways as well. Major changes or transitions can be very difficult to cope with. I help people adjust to the different grieving stages, better understand them, and learn ways to heal from loss. Using the Kubler-Ross model as well as utilizing a person's supports and strengths, I will guide you through this journey to a place of acceptance and peace.

Losing someone you have loved is very painful. Many difficult emotions may arise such as fear, anger, shock, uncertainty about your own mortality, guilt, etc. It is normal and natural to go through a period of time where you feel the loss at a very deep level. It is important to let yourself feel the loss instead of avoiding or coping with it in unhealthy ways. It is also important to know that these feelings will lessen, and you may find that your loss may turn into an opportunity for deep discovery. Everyone is different; therefore, everyone’s length of time and style of grieving is different. But, there is no shame in asking for support if you feel your grief is causing a significant chan

While grieving is a healthy and normal life experience, it can also be hard, lonely, and confusing. Loved ones don't always know how best to support us. The unpredictable nature, intensity, and sheer variety of emotions we experience may make us feel like strangers to ourselves. In my work, I help clients to cope with the impact grief has on their moods, behaviors, thoughts, beliefs, physical well-being, relationships, work, and sense of self. I act as a compassionate guide, teacher, and deep listener as clients find their way through the pain of loss to a sense of healing. We may use written exercises, creative arts, or create rituals, according to a client's needs and wishes.

Grief and loss can take on many forms and look different ways. We most often think of grief as the death of a loved one and while this is true, grief and loss can be much more common in our lives. We can experience it through break-ups, job loss/change, our children moving out, and other life transitions. I strive to validate and normalize each client's experience and help you realize that your grief is real.

Grief counseling helps people cope with grief and mourning following the loss of a loved one or due to major life changes that trigger feelings of grief (i.e. job loss or divorce). It provides a space for individuals to work through and process the complex emotions surrounding loss. Healthy grieving results in remembering the loss with a newfound sense of peace, rather than searing pain.

Grief and loss may be a normal part of life, but that doesn't mean that it is simple or easy. One of the most important things to experience when grieving is someone who is willing and able to listen to you. Often, caring others are so overwhelmed that they don't know how to respond, leaving the grieving person feeling alone and possibly stuck. I will be here for you to walk through this journey with you, providing a listening ear and helping you explore what you need to only when you are ready in order to travel through the grief process in a health fashion.