When Grief Feels Stuck
Have you experienced a significant loss and feel "stuck" emotionally? Do you thought you'd feel better by now, but you don't? Are you tired of hearing "time heals all wounds" or "be strong" when you still feel broken inside?
You're not alone. Traditional grief counseling often focuses on talking about your feelings indefinitely, without providing concrete steps to actually complete your grief. The Grief Recovery Method® is different—it's an evidence-based, action-oriented program that gives you specific tools to recover from loss within a structured timeframe.
As a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist® and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 9+ years of clinical experience, I guide clients through this powerful 7-8 session program that addresses over 40 types of loss—from death and divorce to miscarriage, job loss, and shattered dreams.
What is the Grief Recovery Method®?
The Grief Recovery Method® is not traditional grief counseling or talk therapy. It's a powerful, directed, action-based approach that provides concrete steps to complete the emotional pain caused by loss. Unlike conventional therapy that may focus on processing feelings indefinitely, GRM gives you specific tools to recover from grief within a structured 7-8 week timeframe.
Validated by Kent State University as the only evidence-based grief recovery program in the world, this method has helped millions of people complete unfinished emotional business and move forward with renewed energy and hope.
Traditional Counseling vs. Grief Recovery Method®
Traditional Grief Counseling
- âś— Open-ended processing
- âś— Focus on talking about feelings
- âś— "Time heals all wounds" approach
- âś— No specific methodology
- âś— Ongoing therapy indefinitely
Grief Recovery Method®
- âś“ Structured 7-8 sessions
- âś“ Focus on action steps
- âś“ Active recovery process
- âś“ Evidence-based framework
- âś“ Completing unfinished business
40+ Types of Loss Addressed by GRM
GRM recognizes that grief stems from any loss that matters to you—far beyond just death and divorce. If it feels like a loss to you, GRM can help you complete it.
Death-Related
- Spouse or partner
- Child (at any age)
- Parent or sibling
- Friend or extended family
- Pet loss
- Suicide or overdose
- Sudden or traumatic death
Relationship Losses
- Divorce or separation
- End of significant friendship
- Betrayal or infidelity
- Loss of trust
- Family estrangement
- Breakup of romantic relationship
Health-Related
- Chronic illness diagnosis
- Loss of physical abilities
- Cognitive decline (dementia)
- Infertility or miscarriage
- Loss of independence
- Body image changes
Life Transitions
- Job loss or career change
- Retirement
- Empty nest
- Moving or relocating
- Financial loss
- Loss of home
Safety & Identity
- Loss of safety (assault, abuse)
- Loss of faith or spiritual crisis
- Loss of identity
- Shattered dreams
- Unmet expectations
And Many More...
Any significant change that involves a loss of normalcy, hope, expectations, or emotional connection. If it matters to you, it's valid grief that deserves completion.
The 7-Session Process (One-on-One Format)
Session 1: Foundation & Myths
- Understand what grief really is (beyond just sadness)
- Identify harmful myths about grief you've learned
- Learn why "time heals" and "stay busy" don't work
- Begin creating emotional safety for your recovery
Session 2: Short-Term Energy-Relieving Behaviors (STERBs)
- Identify your automatic coping mechanisms
- Understand which behaviors help vs. hurt recovery
- Develop awareness of your grief patterns
- Create healthier responses to grief triggers
Session 3: Loss History Graph
- Map significant losses throughout your entire life
- Recognize the cumulative impact of unresolved grief
- Understand how past losses affect current pain
- See patterns and connections you didn't know existed
Session 4: Relationship Graph
- Chart the emotional ups and downs of your specific relationship
- Identify both positive and painful memories
- Begin to see the complete picture (not all good or all bad)
- Prepare for deeper completion work ahead
Session 5: Recovery Components Letter (Part 1)
- Begin writing a special letter to the person/situation
- Address what you never got to say
- Express regrets, apologies, and forgiveness
- Start completing unfinished emotional business
Session 6: Recovery Components Letter (Part 2)
- Complete your recovery letter
- Share important things you want remembered
- Say your final goodbye in a meaningful way
- Experience the profound relief of completion
Session 7: Completion & Moving Forward
- Review your powerful journey through the program
- Celebrate your recovery and courage
- Identify new choices now available to you
- Create a plan for continued growth and hope
Time Commitment
- Session Length: 60-75 minutes each
- Total Program: 7-8 weeks (one session per week)
- Homework: 1-2 hours per week between sessions
- Expected Outcome: Significant relief by program end
Evidence-Based Effectiveness
The Grief Recovery Method® is the only grief recovery program validated as evidence-based and effective by Kent State University research.
Scientific Research Proves GRM:
- Reduces symptoms of complicated grief through structured completion process
- Decreases depression and anxiety related to loss significantly
- Improves quality of life after loss in measurable ways
- Provides lasting relief (not just temporary comfort)
- Works across diverse types of losses (death, divorce, health, career, etc.)
What "Recovery" Means:
Recovery doesn't mean "getting over it," "moving on," or "finding closure." It means completing your relationship to the pain caused by the loss, so you can remember the person or situation without the same level of emotional pain. You'll always remember—but you won't always hurt like this.
Who Benefits from the Grief Recovery Method®?
You might benefit from GRM if:
- âś“ You've experienced significant loss and feel "stuck"
- âś“ You thought you'd feel better by now, but you don't
- âś“ You avoid reminders or can't stop thinking about the loss
- âś“ You have trouble sleeping, concentrating, or enjoying life
- âś“ You feel guilty, regretful, or angry about the loss
- âś“ You've tried traditional counseling but still feel incomplete
- âś“ You want a structured approach with a clear endpoint
- âś“ You're tired of hearing "time heals" or "be strong"
GRM is Especially Powerful For:
- • Multiple or cumulative losses weighing you down
- • Losses from long ago that still cause pain today
- • Complicated relationships (difficult parent, ex-spouse, estranged family)
- • Deaths that were sudden, traumatic, or by suicide
- • Losses others minimize or don't acknowledge (job loss, pet loss, miscarriage)
Format Options
One-on-One Sessions (7 sessions)
- Private, confidential setting
- Personalized to your specific loss
- Flexible scheduling to fit your life
- Deeper exploration of your unique situation
- Ideal for complex losses or need for privacy
Group Format (8 sessions)
- Supportive community of fellow grievers
- Witness others' healing alongside your own
- Reduce isolation and loneliness
- Cost-effective option
- Learn from others' recovery journeys
Both formats follow the same proven methodology and lead to complete recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Grief Recovery Method?
The Grief Recovery Method® is an evidence-based, action-oriented program that provides concrete steps to complete the emotional pain caused by loss. Unlike traditional grief counseling, it's a structured 7-8 session program with specific tools to help you recover from grief, validated by Kent State University as the only evidence-based grief recovery program in the world.
How is Grief Recovery Method different from regular grief therapy?
Traditional grief counseling is open-ended and focuses on talking about feelings. The Grief Recovery Method® is structured (7-8 sessions), action-based, and focuses on completing unfinished emotional business. It provides specific steps to recover rather than just process, and has a proven methodology validated by research—not just open-ended support.
What types of loss does Grief Recovery Method address?
GRM addresses 40+ types of loss including: death of loved ones, divorce/breakup, miscarriage/infertility, job loss, chronic illness, pet loss, betrayal, family estrangement, loss of safety after trauma, financial loss, retirement, empty nest, and any other significant loss that matters to you. If it feels like a loss to you, GRM can help.
How long is the Grief Recovery Method program?
The program is 7 sessions for one-on-one format or 8 sessions for groups. Sessions are 60-75 minutes each, meeting weekly. The complete program takes 7-8 weeks with 1-2 hours of homework between sessions. Most people experience significant relief by the end of the program.
Is the Grief Recovery Method evidence-based?
Yes. The Grief Recovery Method® is the only grief recovery program validated as evidence-based and effective by Kent State University research. Scientific studies prove it reduces complicated grief symptoms, decreases depression and anxiety related to loss, improves quality of life, and provides lasting relief across diverse types of losses.
Do I need to do the Grief Recovery Method in a group or individually?
Both formats are available and equally effective. One-on-one sessions (7 sessions) offer privacy, personalization, and flexible scheduling—ideal for complex losses. Group format (8 sessions) provides community support, reduces isolation, and is cost-effective. Both follow the same proven methodology and lead to complete recovery.
Is Grief Recovery Method covered by insurance?
The Grief Recovery Method® is typically self-pay and not covered by insurance, as it's a specialized structured program rather than traditional therapy. Complete program fees are discussed at consultation. Payment plans may be available. This is an investment in your emotional health and lasting relief from grief.
Can Grief Recovery Method help with old grief from years ago?
Absolutely. GRM is especially powerful for unresolved grief from years or even decades ago. The method helps you complete emotional business that was left unfinished, regardless of how long ago the loss occurred. Many clients find relief from losses they've carried for 10, 20, or 30+ years.
Why Choose Megan as Your Grief Recovery Specialist in Oakland?
As a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist® and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 9+ years of clinical experience, I bring both specialized GRM training and deep therapeutic expertise to guide your recovery journey. I create a safe, non-judgmental space where your grief is honored and your healing is supported with proven, research-backed methods.
Certified Specialist®
- 4-day intensive certification training
- Authorized to facilitate all GRM formats
- Ongoing education through GRM Institute
- Listed in official referral directory
- Evidence-based methodology
Clinical Expertise
- Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
- 9+ years with trauma and loss
- Brainspotting practitioner (complementary)
- Understanding of complex grief
- Trauma-informed care
Compassionate Guide
- Safe, non-judgmental space
- Honors your unique relationship to loss
- Supports without rushing or pushing
- Balances structure with sensitivity
- Warm, empathetic presence
Oakland & Bay Area
- In-person sessions in Oakland
- Telehealth across California
- Culturally sensitive practice
- LGBTQ+ affirming
- Diverse loss experiences welcomed
Ready to Complete Your Grief?
You don't have to carry this burden forever. Take the first step toward lasting relief.
Start Your Recovery JourneyServing Oakland, Berkeley, Alameda, and the greater Bay Area