While the loss of loved ones is a natural and normal part of life, loss that is unexpected, untimely, accidental, or drawn out, may lead to trauma for those left behind. The grief associated with such trauma can be debilitating and, perhaps even more challenging, isolating. Such grief can also have a cascading effect, leading to deeper depression, anxiety, fear, and maladaptive behaviors to address these overwhelming emotions. While grieving is natural and must run its course, I believe strongly that any loss can be helped through exploration of the corresponding emotions and behaviors with an objective and trusted therapist.
My approach to grief and loss is anchored in my own experience. Having lost most of my family over a very brief window of time, I know well the many emotions that accompany such unexpected and sudden loss. My treatment approach is a merger of my clinical skill set with a deeply empathetic ear, anchored in the coping mechanisms I personally deployed to help manage the many transitions through my own grief. In my work with my patients around loss and grief, I focus on navigating the negative emotions that can accompany loss (guilt, anger, hopelessness, overwhelming sadness) while, over time and when appropriate, jointly crafting with my patients a narrative that celebrates the life of those that have moved on, and facilitates the release of those emotions that can keep patients “stuck” in the trauma of unexpected loss.