One of life's hardest events has already happened to your child
The loss of a parent has a life-long impact. A child's grief can show up in many ways.
You may notice ...
Behavior changes. A typically active child withdraws, or a reserved child is rambunctious.
Despondent at school or sporting events because they are only child with one parent.
Separation anxiety. What if they lose you too?
Outbursts about "unfairness" - because something very unfair has happened.
Unsure about when, where and to whom they can talk to about their loss.
"What if I forget them?"
"It's not fair"
You want your child to grieve at their own pace - and still get to be a kid. As a parent, you're carrying a lot right now:
Overwhelmed. The to-do list neve ends, and neither do the emotions.
Hopeful. You want them to look back on their childhood and find more than sadness.
Concerned. You want your child to have their own space to grieve, free from trying to protect others.
Unsure. How do you talk to a child about death?
Lonely. Few parents are navigating this path.
At the core of my work is a belief in
YES to all emotions, AND let's understand why, AND change is always possible.
I accept you feel a mix of emotions
Your child learns that whatever they are feeling - sadness, anger, worry or even guilt - can be explored at their own pace. They feel safe knowing I'm comfortable with any emotion.
I understand why you are confused
Your child has the freedom to be and do exactly what they need. We can talk openly about their loss. If words are too overwhelming we can engage with play.
Your child and I will find ways for them to remain connected to their loved one while also embracing new activities and friendships.
You can carry love forward, not just grief
In parenting consultations ...
I'll share knowledge about children and grief - their undestanding of and response to death.
We'll discuss ongoing and new challenges, such as Mother's or Father's Day activities.
Explore how the themes I'm seeing in sessions show up at home or school.
Guidance on how to respond to your child's questions or changes such as the illness of another close family member.
Therapy allows your child to grieve and engage with life outside of their loss
More open about expressing their feelings and asking questions.
Willing to participate in team sports and social events.
Comfortable with engaging in age-appropriate independent activities.
Can acknowledge both the happy and sad times.
When grief shows up, in the shape of sadness, anxiety or anger, you'll engage it with confidence.