Frequently Asked Questions
I know reaching out for help with grief can feel overwhelming. You might have questions about how this works, whether it's right for you, or what to expect. Below are answers to the questions I hear most often. If you don't see your question here, please don't hesitate to get in touch. I'm here to help.
About the programme
What is the purpose of the Handling Grief Programmes?
The Handling Grief Programmes give you the knowledge, tools, and structured process you need to work through your grief properly and move forward with your life. Unlike traditional counselling that can continue indefinitely, these programmes teach you specific steps to identify what's causing your pain, process it effectively, and equip you with skills you can use for the rest of your life. The goal isn't just to feel slightly better. It's to achieve complete resolution so grief no longer controls your daily life.
How is this programme different from traditional therapy?
Traditional therapy often focuses on talking about your feelings week after week, sometimes for months or years. Whilst that can be helpful for some, grief recovery coaching is action-based and educational. We follow a proven, step-by-step process with clear goals and a defined timeline, typically 8 to 12 weeks. You'll learn what grief actually is, why it affects you the way it does, and exactly what to do about it.
Think of therapy as support and exploration, whilst grief recovery is about learning and resolution. You're not just supported, you're empowered with practical tools. This isn't endless talking. It's structured work that creates real, lasting change.
What positive changes will I experience through this programme?
Most clients notice they have more energy and focus. The mental fog lifts. They can make decisions again and plan for the future. Their relationships improve because they're more present with family and friends. The heavy emotions like anger, guilt, regret, and resentment start to ease. Joy returns. They can laugh again and look forward to things. Sleep gets better. Work becomes easier to focus on.
But the most important change is inner peace. That sense of calm you thought you'd lost forever comes back. And you'll have tools and knowledge to handle future losses without falling apart. You won't just feel better temporarily. You'll be equipped for life.
Is this programme suitable for my specific situation?
Very likely, yes. Many people think grief is only about death, but there are over 40 life events that create feelings of loss and grief. The programme helps with bereavement, of course. But it also helps with divorce or relationship breakdown, job loss or career changes, health challenges, life transitions like empty nest or relocation, financial loss, lost dreams, family estrangement, and anticipatory grief when someone you love is terminally ill. It's especially helpful when you're dealing with multiple losses that have compounded over time.
If you've experienced loss of any kind and it's affecting your daily life, energy, relationships, or sense of purpose, this programme can help. If you're unsure, book a free discovery call and we'll discuss your specific situation.
How much time will this programme require?
For the one-to-one programme, you'll have one 60-minute session per week for 8 to 12 weeks. Between sessions, you'll spend about 1 to 2 hours on homework and exercises each week. So you're looking at roughly 2 to 3 hours per week for 2 to 3 months total.
For the group course, sessions are 90 minutes once a week for 8 weeks. You'll still do 1 to 2 hours of personal work between sessions. So about 2.5 to 3.5 hours per week for 2 months.
I know the time investment is significant. But it's temporary. Compare this to years of traditional counselling or continuing to struggle indefinitely. Most clients say it's the best investment of time they've ever made.
What support will I receive outside of the sessions?
You'll receive comprehensive support throughout the programme. You get The Grief Recovery Handbook, which is your guidebook for the entire process. There's a workbook with structured exercises for between sessions. You can email me with questions between our calls. I'll provide additional resources and tools as needed. After the programme, there's follow-up guidance and a check-in session. Most importantly, you'll have lifetime skills. These are tools you can use whenever grief arises in future.
You're never left wondering what to do next. The programme is structured so you always know the steps and have support when you need it.
How is my privacy protected during the programme?
Your privacy is absolutely sacred. Everything you share in our sessions stays completely confidential. All emails and messages are kept private. I never share your story in testimonials or anywhere else without your explicit written permission. One-to-one sessions are just you and me. Group sessions have confidentiality agreements that everyone signs. Any notes I keep are stored securely and never shared. I'm bound by professional standards of confidentiality.
The only exception is if you're at risk of harming yourself or others. In that case, I have a duty of care to ensure your safety. But your grief, your story, and your healing journey are yours alone to share.
Getting started
Am I ready to begin this grief recovery journey?
You're ready if you're tired of feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or controlled by grief. If you're ready to do the work, not just talk about it. If you're open to learning new approaches, even if they feel uncomfortable at first. If you want practical tools, not just sympathy. If you're willing to commit 2 to 3 hours per week for a few months. If you're ready to feel better and move forward with your life.
You don't need to feel strong enough or ready enough. You just need to be willing to try. The programme meets you where you are and guides you forward from there.
You might not be ready if you're in active crisis and need immediate mental health intervention. Or if you're unwilling to do any work between sessions. Or if you're looking for someone to fix you without your participation. Or if you're not ready to examine your loss honestly.
If you're unsure, book a free discovery call. We'll discuss where you are and whether now is the right time.
What if I don't see results?
This is a valid concern. Here's the truth. This programme works if you work the programme. The process is proven and effective, but it requires your active participation. You can't just show up to sessions. You need to do the exercises, be honest about your feelings, and follow the steps.
Most people see results within the first few weeks. In weeks 1 to 2, there's increased understanding and hope. By weeks 3 to 4, you notice a reduction in those heavy feelings. Weeks 5 to 6 bring more energy and clearer thinking. By weeks 7 to 8, there's significant emotional relief. And by completion, life feels manageable again.
If you're not seeing progress, we address it immediately. I check in regularly about how you're doing. If something isn't working, we adjust the approach or slow down. This isn't one-size-fits-all.
What affects results? Doing the homework is essential for progress. You must be willing to face difficult feelings honestly. Missing sessions disrupts the process. And you need to be open to trying new approaches.
I've never had a client who fully engaged with the process and didn't experience significant positive change. But you have to do the work.
Can I see testimonials from previous clients?
Absolutely. You can read detailed testimonials from clients who've been through the programme here. You'll hear from business professionals who regained their focus and productivity. People grieving parents who found peace after years of pain. Individuals dealing with friendship breakdown who released resentment. Those facing multiple losses who learned to handle life's challenges. And people who didn't even realize they had unresolved grief until they started feeling better.
These aren't edited highlight reels. They're real people sharing honest experiences about what changed for them. Many have recorded video testimonials so you can see and hear directly from them.
Programme details
What are the payment options?
I offer flexible payment options to make the programme accessible. For the one-to-one programme, you can pay in full with a discount, split it across 2 to 3 monthly instalments, or we can discuss a custom payment plan based on your situation. For the group course, you can pay in full, which is the most affordable option, or split it into two instalments, half at the start and half at midpoint.
This isn't just paying for sessions. You're investing in a proven methodology developed over decades, professional expertise and certification, comprehensive materials and resources, tools you'll use for life, and freedom from years of suffering.
Compare this to years of traditional counselling at £50 to £150 per session, which adds up to £2,600 to £7,800 per year. Consider the lost productivity and opportunities due to grief. Think about the impact on your relationships and quality of life. Your time and wellbeing are valuable.
If the investment is genuinely challenging, let's talk during your discovery call. I want to help you, not add financial stress.
Are the sessions conducted online or in person?
Currently, all sessions are conducted online via Zoom or similar video platform. There are real benefits to this. There's no travel time or costs. You're in the comfort of your own safe space. It's easier to fit sessions into busy schedules. You can work with me from anywhere in the UK or internationally. You have complete privacy in your own environment. And research shows online grief support is just as effective as in-person sessions.
You'll need a reliable internet connection, a computer, tablet, or smartphone with camera and microphone, a private, quiet space for sessions, and headphones are recommended for privacy.
What technology do I need to participate in the online sessions?
Very minimal technology is needed. You need a device with a camera and microphone, like a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. You need an internet connection, which doesn't need to be super fast. And you need an email address for communications. That's the essentials.
I recommend having headphones or earbuds for better audio quality and privacy, a quiet, private space, and downloading the Zoom app beforehand.
Can the programme be tailored to my personal situation?
Absolutely, especially in the one-to-one programme. While the core process follows proven steps, how we apply them is completely personalised to you.
We'll tailor the pace. Some people need to move slower, others faster. We'll focus more time on the losses that matter most to you. We'll use situations and language that resonate with your life. We'll adjust exercises to fit your learning style and schedule. And we'll match the support level to what you need. Some people need more guidance, others prefer independence.
What stays consistent is the proven methodology, because it works. The sequence of steps stays the same because they build on each other. And the core principles remain universal, because these are truths about grief that apply to everyone.
In the group course, the structure is more standardized. Everyone moves through steps together. But you still apply everything to your personal situation. And you benefit from hearing others' experiences too.
Think of it like learning to drive. The basic principles are the same for everyone, but how you learn and practice is adapted to you.
What resources or support are available after I complete the programme?
Your learning doesn't end when the programme does. All handouts and resources are yours. And most importantly, you now know the methodology. You have the process for handling future losses.
For follow-up support, there's a check-in session 4 to 6 weeks after completion, which is included. I'm available by email if you need clarification on anything. And there's an optional alumni community where you can connect with others who've completed the programme.
There are also additional options. You can book refresher sessions if you face new loss or need a tune-up. I occasionally offer advanced workshops on specific topics.
Most importantly, you'll have the skills and confidence to handle future grief independently. That's the whole point. You're empowered, not dependent.
Specific questions
What does the Handling Grief Workbook contain?
The workbook is your personal companion throughout the programme. It contains structured exercises like relationship timeline mapping, loss history graphs, communication letters that you write but don't send, completion statements, and reflection prompts.
There's educational content explaining what grief really is and what it isn't, common myths about grief, why certain approaches don't work, and what actually helps.
You get practical tools with step-by-step guidance for each exercise, examples to guide you, space to write your responses, and ways to track your progress.
It becomes your personal record. Your insights and discoveries. Moments of breakthrough. Tools to reference later.
It's not just a workbook you complete and forget. It becomes a valuable resource you can return to whenever you face future losses.
What are your qualifications and experience as a Certified Grief Specialist?
I bring both professional training and personal experience. Professionally, I'm a Certified Grief Specialist, trained in The Grief Recovery Method, which is an evidence-based approach developed over 40 years. I'm committed to ongoing professional development, continuously updating my skills and knowledge.
Personally, I've experienced multiple significant losses myself. I've walked this path. I know what it's like to be stuck in unresolved grief for years. And I've experienced the transformation I now help others achieve.
Practically, I've been helping people navigate complex grief for several years now. I've supported clients through diverse loss situations, including bereavement, divorce, job loss, health challenges, and more.
What this means for you is that you're working with someone who combines professional expertise with genuine understanding. I'm not reading from a textbook. I'm sharing what actually works because I've lived it and studied it extensively.
What is The Grief to Gratitude Pathway™ programme, and why is it effective?
The Grief to Gratitude Pathway is my signature approach. It combines the proven Grief Recovery Method with practical tools for daily life, mindset shifts that create lasting change, gratitude practices that rebuild joy, and holistic wellbeing strategies.
It's effective because it's action-based, not just talk-based. You're doing exercises that create real change, not just discussing feelings endlessly. It's structured and systematic. Clear steps that build on each other, so you always know what's next. It addresses root causes. We don't just manage symptoms, we resolve the underlying grief.
It teaches lifelong skills. You learn tools you can use for any future loss. It combines grief recovery with gratitude. You're not just processing pain, you're rebuilding capacity for joy. And it's a holistic approach. We address emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of healing.
The pathway goes from grief to understanding to processing to resolution to growth to gratitude to purpose. You move from being controlled by grief to using what you've learned for growth and renewed purpose.
What step should I take if I'm interested in learning more about the programme?
The first step is simple. Take one (or both) of the free quizzes: Hidden Wellbeing Gaps Quiz or Grief Assessment Quiz. Then book a free discovery call to discuss your results.
We'll have a conversation, about 15-30 minutes. This is a no-pressure chat where we'll discuss your results and what you're experiencing right now, what you've already tried, what you're hoping will change, whether my programme is right for you, and what next steps would look like.
After our call, you decide. You'll have all the information you need to make a decision. No pressure, no sales tactics. If it's right for you, we'll move forward. If it's not, I'll tell you honestly.
The discovery call isn't a sales pitch. It's not a coaching session. It's not an obligation to sign up. What it is, is an honest conversation about your situation, an opportunity to ask any questions, a chance to see if we're a good fit, and clear information about how I can help.
Do you offer any free resources I can access or download?
Yes. I offer several free resources to help you start understanding and addressing your grief.
I also have free content on the blog with practical insights and guidance on grief, healing, and moving forward. There are video resources with short explanations of key grief concepts. And you can join my email newsletter for regular tips and support. You can unsubscribe anytime.
The discovery call is also free. It's a 30-minute conversation to discuss your situation.
These resources are genuinely helpful on their own. But they're also a great way to get a feel for my approach before committing to a programme.
Where can I learn more about your personal journey and approach?
I'm glad you want to know more about who I am and why I do this work. You can read my full story here, which explains why I became a Grief Specialist.
To understand my approach, visit the Services page for a detailed explanation of how I work. You're already on the FAQs page. And the Testimonials page lets you hear from clients who've worked with me.
The best way to get to know me personally is through a discovery call. You can also email me at [email protected] or follow me on social media for regular insights and updates.
On the Collaborations page, you can see who I work with and hear me discuss grief on various podcast shows.
The more you learn about me, the more you'll understand that I'm not just selling a service. I'm sharing a path forward that changed my life and can change yours too.
Have you been featured in any articles or podcasts?
Yes, I've been privileged to share insights about grief resolution on various platforms. I've appeared on several podcasts discussing topics like understanding grief, supporting others, the intersection of business and grief, and personal transformation. You can see a full list of my media appearances and professional partnerships on the Collaborations page.
These appearances show that my approach is recognised and valued by other professionals. They're also great resources if you want to hear me explain concepts before booking a call. If you'd like to feature me on your podcast or platform, I'm open to collaboration opportunities.
How can I connect with you on social media?
I'd love to connect. You'll find me on LinkedIn with professional insights and articles, Facebook for community and support, Instagram for daily encouragement and tips, and YouTube for videos and longer-form content.
You'll find practical tips for managing grief, educational content about loss and healing, personal reflections and stories, updates about programmes and resources.
Following gives you regular reminders you're not alone, validation of what you're experiencing, practical tools you can use today, and hope that healing is possible.
Additional questions
Got more questions?
I'm here to help answer anything that's on your mind. There are three ways to get answers.
First, book a free discovery call. It's the best way to get personalised answers about your specific situation.
Second, send me a message using the contact form and I'll respond within 24 hours.
Third, join my email list to get regular insights and tips delivered to your inbox.
Remember, no question is too small or too personal. If you're wondering about it, I want to help answer it. Your healing matters, and getting the information you need is an important first step.
Want to collaborate?
Let's talk. I'd love to hear how we can support each other.
Connect with me
Find me on social media or drop me a message. I'd be happy to connect and answer any questions you might have.
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