In a grief-averse society that says to "get over" or "move on" from the death of a loved one, in a medical system that pathologizes bereavement as a disorder as early as one year after someone's death, in social circles that force toxic positivity, platitudes, and unsolicited advice on grieving folks, I long to offer a different presence. I come alongside traumatically bereaved children and families to offer meaningful and non-judgmental support in the wake of an unexpected or violent death, or after a prolonged illness. Death and trauma generate complex grief responses that deserve to be heard, honored, explored, and integrated.
I hold a Graduate Certificate in Trauma Studies from Lesley University and a certification for Compassionate Bereavement Care offered by the Center for Loss and Trauma in partnership with the MISS Foundation and the Elisabeth Kubler-Ross Family Trust to be able to support those experiencing the effects of traumatic grief due to the death of a loved one.
Through the use of expressive therapies and play therapy, I aim to build a relationship where youth feel comfortable being exactly who they are and where all of the parts of themselves can come forward, knowing they will be met with compassion, curiosity, and care. I support caregivers in evaluating their own needs as well as exploring family functioning.