Grief and Traumatic Loss

Losing a loved one can be one of the most difficult and overwhelming experiences a person can face. I believe that grief shouldn’t be looked at as an illness that can be treated or “fixed,” but instead as an event that forever changes your worldview. As a result, my focus is on providing a safe and supportive environment for you to navigate the complex and difficult emotions which may be rising up. 

I approach this work with empathy, openness, and gratitude, recognizing the pain of grief is often beyond words and symbolization. My presence is meant to be a holding space, allowing you to fully express yourself and feel validated and authentic in your experiences. I listen deeply to what you are saying and try to pick up on any unconscious emotions or thoughts that may be affecting you, while also bearing witness to the pain of your loss. Through this process, I hope to help you find a new sense of self.

From my work at the Distress Centre’s Traumatic Survivor Support program in which I worked with individuals and groups in their grief journeys, I recognize that the loss of a loved one to suicide, homicide and other sudden, violent and unexpected losses greatly complicates an already difficult and painful process. Perhaps you are feeling added layers of anger, shame, and confusion. Perhaps you are feeling abandoned, or have lost your faith in humanity and a benevolent universe, or feeling a sense of responsibility for not being able to prevent the loss. You may be wondering how you can possibly survive. Having seen so many people on their journeys, I can help provide hope that finding a way forward is possible.