While there are many ways of grieving the loss of someone we love, one thing is certain: our life changes. We begin a journey that can at times be difficult to navigate on our own. We might not understand our feelings, or we may feel like we are on a roller coaster, not knowing how to deal with the strong emotions we are experiencing.

Maybe we aren't sure how to take care of ourselves or those around us during this time.  Sometimes we just need someone to listen, to hear our story and let us express how we feel.

Grief is highly personal and I believe that each person who experiences a significant loss walks a unique path, with a unique time-frame. I also believe that sometimes grief can be an opening into personal growth and transformation. It can be helpful to talk about your experience with someone who is not directly involved in the loss. 

Through my own personal experience with the sudden death of a loved one, I have been inspired to work with others who find themselves facing the journey of grief. I offer caring and supportive grief counseling services in Santa Fe. I work with adults, children, couples and groups.

An Open Heart

As we find our way through grief, we are well advised to remember that a broken heart is an open heart. We only grieve what we have loved or needed, and although no one can avoid the fact of loss, we do have a choice about whether we keep our heart open and grow from the experience, or whether we close our heart tight, in an attempt to protect ourselves from the inevitable pain. 

I wish you abiding love and caring support as you journey through this challenging time.

Types of Loss
There are many different types of loss:

• Death
• Loss of Relationship
• Injury or Illness
• Loss of Employment or a Dream
• Loss of an Animal Companion
• Loss of Innocence or Childhood
• Loss of Ecological or Social Equanimity
• Loss of Faith
  

There is no one "right" way to grieve. The territory is basically uncharted, and even when we have grieved before, each loss is unique and new.

In addition, some losses are more culturally sanctioned than others. When our loss and our subsequent grief are out of the ordinary, or disenfranchised, we may face additional challenges.

If you are interested in getting support  for your process, either through one-on-one counseling or by joining others in a grief support group, please contact me. Phone sessions are available for those who are out of the area. 505-231-1697.