how counseling and consulting at sage can help you grow

Experiencing grief is something that happens to all of us and one of the things we dread the most. There are many "stages of grief" that we have all heard about, but what does that mean and how does it work? The first step is realizing that grief is a life-long process. It's not something to "get over and move on from", but rather something we carry with us each day. Together, we will talk about what you are dealing with and you will have a comforting place to speak freely about anything that is on your mind. Sometimes, while our friends or family mean well, they just don't know what to say. Grief counseling provides a way for you to process your loss without the fear of answering unwelcome questions or hearing hurtful, or unsolicited advice. I have experienced deep grief, and truly enjoy working with and supporting others who have also had this experience.

Caring for loved ones  can be deeply rewarding, but also extremely stressful and difficult. As a caregiver, you become tired, feel overwhelmed, experience decision fatigue (from so many important things to decide), experience grief (for the way your lives used to be), anticipatory grief (thinking of sad times ahead), and may even feel angry or resentful at times, leading to a deep sense of guilt and shame. All of these feelings are natural and you have a right to feel what you feel. Sometimes, we just need a place to talk things through and rest. I have experienced all of these things, and enjoy supporting caregivers helping them remember and find ways to care for themselves on their journey.

Living with chronic illness can be a constant struggle, not only physically, but emotionally as well. You feel weak, unwell and sad because you can no longer do the things you used to be able to do and enjoy. You may feel guilty, or like you are a burden to your family. You may also be continually researching, seeking answers and attending appointments, while wondering just how you are going to pay for all of the things you need in order to rest and heal. These things pile up, are overwhelming at times, and can lead to a sense of hopelessness. I have been where you are, and would love to offer support to you during these tough times. 

Living with anxiety can be brutal to be sure. You may have panic attacks, be hesitant to show up to group events, or even leave your house. You may experience lessor symptoms on a daily basis that are no less troubling. Symptoms can be of a physical nature such as; fatigue, sweating, heart palpitations, or insomnia. They can also be more emotional; racing thoughts, irritability, restlessness, struggling to concentrate, worrying excessively, or  having a feeling of impending doom, to name a few. At times, you may feel isolated and alone because friends and family cannot understand what you are going through. You may dread hearing things like, “Calm down” or “You worry too much”. During our meetings, you will learn the reasons behind these symptoms and begin to learn ways to cope with them to help yourself feel better. 

Suffering from depression is painful. You may experience sadness, loss of interest in things you used to enjoy, or feelings of hopelessness. Being tearful, anxious, or not wanting to leave your home can be common. You may also experience physical symptoms such as; fatigue, insomnia, the desire to sleep too much, poor appetite, weight gain or loss. Depression can be isolating as many people who have not experienced it do not understand what you are going through. Hearing things like, “It could be worse” or “I know how you feel” can make you feel isolated and alone. In our meetings, you will be able to express your feelings and be received with acceptance. You will explore reasons for your symptoms and learn skills to help yourself feel better.