Spiritual Counseling and Grief – Counselors and Therapists in Franklin, MA
Grief and depression are closely linked. However, where depression is an emotional response to internally generated stimuli, grief is a reaction to an event or situation in the world around us. The events that may elicit grief include a sudden loss such as:
- Bereavement from the death of a loved one
- An unwanted separation from a loved one
- Divorce
- Being abandoned by a family member or friend
But a sense of loss and grief can be triggered by changes in life roles that define our identity. Such transitions can significantly impact our sense of purpose and meaning. These may include:
- Being laid off from a job
- Children becoming adults and leaving home
- A sudden change in health or becoming disabled
- An expectation for an important event not being met
But our own incompetencies or even moral shortcomings may generate a sense of guilt and shame that produce similar effects to grief. These shortcomings have ripple effects that affect others who are connected with us.
Moral conflict results in moral confusion that often generates cognitive dissonance. This dissonance results when there are intrinsic contradictions between our thoughts, beliefs and actions. The resulting inner turmoil exasperates symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Can our spiritual beliefs and faith have an effect on how we handle grief, bereavement, and the process of mourning? In our time of dire need and heartbreak, can our faith help to sustain and comfort us? Can it help us to eventually thrive again?
Below is a link to a class taught by Dr. Handel. In this teaching, Dr. Handel uses scripture and actual case studies to show how grief may affect us, but also, how faith may help us navigate through difficult times. Dr. Handel is a licensed psychologist and ordained minister. He is also the Clinical Director and owner of Thriveworks Franklin.
At Thriveworks Franklin, there are therapists who have studied the interactive effects of faith and the grieving process. They understand how grief effects the whole person in a variety of ways. So, if you, or someone you love, are going through a time of grief or mourning, call Thriveworks Franklin at 617-360-7210 and make an appointment today.
