Grief and Loss Counseling in Apple Valley, MN.

Grieving is different than depression! At times we may not be able to distinguish between the two. Grieving is a very individual process. We all do it differently. It can result from the death of someone significant in our lives, but also from other events too. For example, meeting a long-term goal, divorce, the loss of physical health & functioning, loss of a job, or after a traumatic experience. To grieve effectively any of us need support and encouragement to face the needs and painful feelings that we often would prefer to avoid. I find that providing a warm, safe environment and supportive guidance allows my clients to feel what they need to feel in order to integrate painful losses.

With my experience in ministry, in counseling, and in life-coaching, I’ve helped men work through the complicated emotions around grief and loss. As men we feel pressure to be a “rock” for everyone else. Then our wives tell us to open up and feel our feelings. But do they really want to see us fall apart? Like many things, the truth is somewhere in the middle. Chances are that you’ve bravely put your feelings on hold to care for others, and regardless of what the world says, there’s love and nobility in that. And at the same time, you need a place to be real and work through the pain. If you’re ready to take the next step and face what needs to be faced, man to man, I’m here to help.

When someone experiences loss, they may not move through the typical "stages" of grief that are so commonly talked about. This can trigger feelings of shame and guilt. They may wonder why they aren't "over it" or others may ask why they haven't "moved on". In therapy, we will focus on letting your experience of grief be what it is rather than fighting it or trying to grieve a certain way. Letting go of "should" and accepting what is can be incredibly freeing and often provides some relief right away. Grief comes in waves over time so we will deal with these waves as they come and help you find effective ways to manage them. I will support you in processing grief in your own way and own time.

Grief counseling helps people cope with grief and mourning following the loss of a loved one or due to major life changes that trigger feelings of grief (i.e. job loss or divorce). It provides a space for individuals to work through and process the complex emotions surrounding loss. Healthy grieving results in remembering the loss with a newfound sense of peace, rather than searing pain.

Grief and loss do not necessarily relate to just death. ~ The loss of family through divorce, drug or alcohol use, or anger is another aspect where one feels grief and loss. ~ Loss of an ideal for a job, the ideal child, ideal spouse or ideal self is also an area of grief and loss. ~ The loss of one’s health or that of someone close to them through illness or an accident is also an area of grief and loss.~ My point is there are many circumstances where one may feel grief and loss. ~ We will identify your area of grief and loss and develop a plan of action to help understand and face the reality of a changed future due to this loss together. It is a difficult journey but one that is made easier w....

As an experienced Christian Counselor and ordained pastor, I’ve supported many men through the grief process. If you’re grieving, I will provide a supportive space for you to process your emotions. Because grief is a normal part of being human, I can’t take it away or rush you through it. However, I can help you identify barriers to grief, and help you prevent the grief process from becoming stuck. I know grief professionally. But I also know grief personally. Losing one of my best friends and my beloved grandparents was hard enough, but facing the untimely death of my father was, and is, a uniquely painful experience. If given the chance, I would be honored to help you process your grief.

Grief looks different for everyone, and there’s no “right” way to mourn. At Blossom, we offer a gentle, supportive space to help you process your loss at your own pace. Whether you or your child are grieving the death of a loved one, a major life change, or a loss that’s harder to name, we meet you with empathy and care. Through connection, reflection, and age-appropriate strategies, we help you move through grief without feeling rushed—honoring what was lost while finding your footing in what remains.

People who work with me on grief and loss will benefit from my person-centered and non-pathologizing approach. When we loose someone or something that has deep meaning in our lives, it is only natural that our lives are disrupted. I provide people with the support, time and space they need to move through grief and loss at a pace that is right for them.

Life doesn’t come with a roadmap, and sometimes it’s hard to make sense of what you’re going through. If you’re feeling stuck, disconnected, or overwhelmed, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out alone, either. Grief and loss can shake your sense of self and leave you feeling uncertain. Therapy gives you space to rebuild clarity, confidence, and connection—on your terms.

Grief counseling helps people cope with grief and mourning following the loss of a loved one or due to major life changes that trigger feelings of grief (i.e. job loss or divorce). It provides a space for individuals to work through and process the complex emotions surrounding loss. Healthy grieving results in remembering the loss with a newfound sense of peace, rather than emotional pain.

When you lose someone or something that you love, it can feel as though your world has ended. Grief can feel crushing. It can abate and a crushing tsunami of heavy may get triggered with seeming small instances where you suddenly 'remember' that this is happening and it is real. There is no 'getting over it'. It is so hard to even accept that this is really happening. You are faced with learning to move forward with this void. If you are further into your grief, you may feel alone and worried about burdening others with this pain. I understand and I want to help you.

I have extensive experience working with grief and loss. I have worked with every type of loss and understand the importance of having someone sit with you in your grief and help you understand and navigate what you are feeling. I have worked extensively with parents who have had a child die and understand the unique complexities of that type of loss. I don't think people get "over" losses but rather their grief and feelings changes throughout the years.

Overcoming grief and loss requires a balance of experiencing emotional pain and the conscious attempt to move forward in life in positive ways. This is a delicate balance and healing may take time. But there is always hope for a positive future that must be nurtured within the reality of one's loss.There must be an authentic experiencing of the feelings of hurt and pain. And this may take considerable time and patience, though every person is different in the way that they handle loss. Every person should be respected in their path taken for personal healing.