The Essence of Grief

 

Rosa Johnson, EdD, EdS, MA, LPC, CGS

Renewing Minds Counseling Center

Loss and grief are central to numerous mental health concerns. For this reason, my initial ‘talk’ focuses on grief and loss. My work with grieving families began in the 1990s during my time as a Hospice Volunteer.

During my time as a volunteer, I became very aware of the significance of being present for individuals experiencing anticipatory grief and recognized that the experience of loss can have a profound lingering effect on those involved. I also noted the reality that while many families are prepared for the death of a loved one, they are not prepared for the pain, finality, and sorrow associated with the loss.

As the years passed by, I continued my academic journey and became a licensed professional counselor and certified grief specialist with a commitment to support individuals through their journeys with grief.

Through supporting others and navigating my own experiences of loss, including my husband of nearly 45 years, a child, both parents, grandparents, siblings, and many more relatives and friends, I noted that the essence of grief is intrinsic, it may not always be visible to others, but it is always real and it presents itself in many ways.

Grief is a journey with each person being on their own path. But it does not mean that you have to be on that journey alone. Talking with a therapist who can help you navigate the process is a step in the right direction.

I will conclude for today but plan to share additional insights on the nature of grief as well as other related topics in future posts.

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