Get Grief and Loss Counseling you can count on.
Serving Montrose, Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, and all cities across CA.
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, I provide deeply personalized, trauma-informed care for clients seeking a thoughtful and effective path toward healing. My practice is designed to offer a calm, private, and supportive therapeutic environment where individuals, couples, and teens can engage in meaningful inner work with depth, intention, and care.
I believe therapy should be both clinically grounded and highly individualized. My approach integrates evidence-based modalities with a nuanced understanding of trauma, creating a therapeutic experience that is compassionate, attuned, and tailored to the unique needs of each client. Every aspect of care is approached with sensitivity, professionalism, and respect for the complexity of each person’s healing process.
I am committed to offering a standard of care that feels both deeply supportive and exceptionally intentional. My goal is to help clients move beyond patterns of distress and toward greater clarity, resilience, emotional balance, and lasting well-being. Through a refined, relational, and trauma-informed approach, I strive to create a space where genuine healing and meaningful transformation can unfold.
Grief is a natural response to loss, but for some, it can evolve into a more complex emotional state known as complicated grief. This condition can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to navigate daily life and heal from the pain of loss. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we understand the profound impact complicated grief can have on individuals, and we are here to provide the support and guidance needed to manage this experience. in this article, we will explore the symptoms of complicated grief, effective treatment options, and how our specialized services can help you on your healing journey.
Complicated grief, also known as prolonged grief disorder, differs from typical grief in its intensity and duration. While grief is a normal reaction to losing a loved one, complicated grief can linger for months or even years, preventing individuals from moving forward with their lives. This condition is characterized by a persistent yearning for the deceased, intense sorrow, and difficulty accepting the loss.
Experience compassionate trauma-informed therapy designed to support your emotional healing and recovery, helping you navigate psychological trauma and post-traumatic stress with expert guidance and understanding.
Experience compassionate self-esteem counseling that empowers you to build confidence, enhance your self-worth, and improve your body image through personalized therapy tailored to your unique journey.
Experience compassionate anxiety therapy designed to help you manage anxiety disorders, overcome challenges, and find peace through personalized support and effective treatment strategies.
Recognizing the symptoms of complicated grief is the first step toward seeking help. Some common symptoms include:
These symptoms can be debilitating, leaving individuals feeling trapped in their grief. It is essential to recognize when grief has become complicated and to seek appropriate treatment.
While complicated grief can feel insurmountable, various treatment options are available to help individuals navigate their emotions and begin the healing process. Here are some effective strategies:
Grief recovery counseling focuses on providing a safe space for individuals to express their feelings and work through their grief. A qualified therapist can help clients identify and process their emotions, enabling them to move toward acceptance and healing.
CBT is a structured, goal-oriented therapy that helps individuals reframe negative thought patterns associated with grief. By challenging irrational beliefs and developing healthier coping mechanisms, clients can learn to manage their emotions more effectively.
Participating in group therapy can provide a sense of community and understanding. Sharing experiences with others who are also grieving can help alleviate feelings of isolation and foster connection.
Mindfulness practices and meditation can be beneficial in managing the emotional and physical symptoms of complicated grief. These techniques promote self-awareness and emotional regulation, allowing individuals to find moments of peace amid their pain.
In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage the symptoms of complicated grief, especially if there are accompanying issues such as depression or anxiety. It is crucial to consult with a mental health professional to determine the best course of action.
Clear, practical answers for people considering Trauma Therapy and looking for a thoughtful next step.
Touchstone Trauma Therapy is a mental health practice located in Montrose, CA, specializing in trauma therapy. We provide personalized care to help clients navigate challenges such as trauma, anxiety, and depression through holistic, trauma-informed approaches.
Our services are designed for individuals, couples, and teens who are facing mental health challenges. Whether you are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, emotional overwhelm, chronic stress, perfectionism, or feelings of disconnection, we are here to support you on your healing journey.
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we offer a range of trauma-informed therapies tailored to individual needs. Our approaches may include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness and Somatic therapies, and other holistic methods aimed at promoting healing and resilience.
If you are experiencing persistent feelings of anxiety, depression, or distress related to past experiences, trauma therapy may be beneficial. Our team can help assess your needs and guide you toward appropriate support.
During your first session at Touchstone Trauma Therapy, you will meet with a therapist who will discuss your background, current challenges, and goals for therapy. This initial assessment helps us create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Yes, therapy sessions at Touchstone Trauma Therapy are confidential. We adhere to strict ethical guidelines to ensure your privacy and safety, allowing you to share your experiences in a secure and supportive environment.
Somatic Therapy is a form of body-centered therapy that emphasizes the connection between the brain, mind, and body. It utilizes body awareness as a therapeutic tool to explore and resolve the somatic (physical) symptoms of psychological issues. This approach helps individuals recognize and release the physical tension that remains in the body due to past trauma and stress.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a transformative therapeutic model of psychotherapy that helps individuals understand and harmonize the various parts within themselves. According to IFS, we all have different parts within us that carry different thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. These parts can sometimes conflict with each other and create internal struggles and difficulties in our lives. IFS is commonly utilized to work with trauma memories or difficult childhood experiences.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured approach that treats trauma by safely reconnecting individuals with the traumatic images, thoughts, emotions, and body sensations they experienced, leveraging the brain’s natural healing process—Adaptive Information Processing (AIP).
Unlike traditional talk therapy, which often focuses on the traumatic event itself, EMDR targets the emotional disturbances and symptoms stemming from the trauma. The goal is to process these troubling memories, reduce their impact, and help clients develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Through EMDR, memories are transferred from the emotional part of the brain (limbic system) to long-term storage, transforming them from intrusive relived experiences into memories of past events that no longer wield disruptive power.
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy in Montrose, CA, we specialize in trauma therapy and grief recovery counseling. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care to help clients navigate their complex emotions associated with loss. We understand that each person's journey through grief is unique, and we tailor our therapeutic approach to meet individual needs.
Our therapists are trained in various evidence-based modalities, including:
We believe in a holistic approach to mental health, incorporating various therapeutic techniques to support emotional healing. Our compassionate team is here to guide you through the complexities of grief, helping you find a path toward acceptance and peace.
Healing from complicated grief is not a linear process; it requires patience, understanding, and support. If you or a loved one is struggling with overwhelming grief, we encourage you to reach out for help. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we are committed to walking alongside you on your healing journey, providing the tools and support necessary to navigate this challenging time.
Don't let complicated grief define your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward healing. You can reach us at 626-824-8572 or visit our website at touchstonetraumatherapy.com for more information.
Remember, you are not alone in your journey through grief. Our dedicated team is here to help you find hope and healing.
grief. By addressing unhelpful thoughts and beliefs, individuals can learn healthier ways to cope with their emotions and gradually reduce the intensity of their grief. 3. Support Groups Support groups offer a communal space for individuals experiencing similar losses. Sharing experiences and feelings with others who understand can alleviate feelings of isolation and provide comfort. Many find that hearing others’ stories helps them to reflect on their own journey and fosters a sense of connection. 4. Medication In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression associated with complicated grief. Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications can be beneficial as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, especially when combined with therapy. 5. Mindfulness and Meditation Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help individuals stay present and reduce overwhelming feelings of grief. Techniques such as guided imagery, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness meditation can provide relief and promote emotional regulation. 6. Journaling Writing about one’s thoughts and feelings can serve as a therapeutic outlet. Journaling allows individuals to express their grief, reflect on their emotions, and document their healing journey. This practice can help in processing the loss and clarifying the complex emotions that arise. 7. Creative Expression Engaging in creative activities such as painting, music, or dance can facilitate emotional expression. Creative outlets can allow individuals to process their grief in a non-verbal way, helping them to articulate feelings that may be difficult to express otherwise. 8. Rituals and Memorials Creating rituals to honor the deceased can be a meaningful way to cope with loss. This could include holding a memorial service, planting a tree, or creating a scrapbook of memories. Such practices can help individuals feel connected to their loved one and provide a sense of closure. 9. Self-Care Strategies Taking care of oneself during the grieving process is crucial. Prioritizing self-care activities such as exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep can help improve overall well-being. Engaging in enjoyable activities and spending time with supportive friends and family can also foster healing. 10. Seeking Professional Help If symptoms of complicated grief persist or worsen, it is vital to seek professional help. Mental health professionals specializing in grief can provide tailored support and interventions to address individual needs.Complicated grief can significantly affect various aspects of an individual’s daily life. Recognizing these impacts can help individuals understand their experience better and motivate them to seek help.
The emotional toll of complicated grief can manifest in several ways:
Grief can take a toll on physical health as well. Individuals may experience:
As individuals grapple with complicated grief, they may withdraw from social interactions:
Navigating the grieving process can involve several decision points that can impact healing. Understanding these can empower individuals to make informed choices:
Recognizing when grief is becoming overwhelming is a critical decision point. Individuals must consider:
Once help is sought, individuals face decisions about engagement in treatment:
Creating a supportive environment is essential for recovery:
As individuals progress in their healing journey, implementing long-term strategies can help maintain emotional well-being:
Prioritizing self-care should remain a lifelong commitment:
Staying connected with supportive individuals can aid in ongoing healing:
Finding joy and purpose post-loss is essential:
Complicated grief is a challenging emotional experience that can feel isolating and overwhelming. However, through understanding, support, and effective treatment options, individuals can navigate their grief and begin to heal. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and you do not have to face this journey alone. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we are committed to walking alongside you as you find your way toward healing and peace.
If you or someone you know is struggling with complicated grief, please reach out to us for support and guidance. Together, we can help you find the path to healing.
grief. By challenging irrational beliefs and fostering healthier coping mechanisms, CBT can significantly reduce the symptoms of complicated grief. 3. Support Groups Joining a support group can provide a sense of community and understanding. Sharing experiences with others who have faced similar losses can help individuals feel less isolated. Support groups can also offer practical strategies for coping with grief and create an environment where it’s safe to express emotions. 4. Medication In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage symptoms associated with complicated grief. Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications can help alleviate severe emotional distress, making it easier to engage in therapy and other healing practices. 5. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help individuals manage the overwhelming emotions associated with complicated grief. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can promote emotional regulation and reduce anxiety. 6. Rituals and Memorials Creating personal rituals or memorials can be a powerful way to honor the memory of a loved one. Engaging in activities that celebrate their life, such as planting a tree, creating a scrapbook, or holding an annual gathering, can facilitate healing and provide a sense of connection.Deciding when to seek help for complicated grief can be challenging. Here are some decision points to consider:
Understanding how others have navigated their journey through complicated grief can be enlightening and inspiring. Here are a few real-life examples:
Experience compassionate depression counseling and effective clinical depression therapy tailored to your needs, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you overcome major depressive disorder and mood disorders.
Experience compassionate EMDR therapy tailored for healing from PTSD, anxiety, phobias, grief, and abuse recovery, helping you navigate complex trauma and reclaim your life with confidence.
Experience healing through Somatic Experiencing Therapy, a holistic approach that combines body-oriented psychotherapy and mind-body techniques to alleviate stress and anxiety, promoting deep relaxation and emotional well-being.
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, seeking support is an important first step toward healing. Whether you are navigating Trauma Therapy, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm, this is a calm place to begin with trust, care, and intention.
Talk with a trusted therapist and take the next step forward with confidence.
Trauma-informed care is an approach to therapy that recognizes how past trauma can affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, relationships, and physical responses. It focuses on creating a safe, supportive, and respectful environment where clients feel heard, empowered, and never pressured. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, trauma-informed care means tailoring treatment to each person’s needs while using approaches that support healing at a pace that feels manageable and safe. At TTT, we utilize Evidence Based modalities such as EMDR, IFS and Somatic/Mindfulness that are effective in addressing and healing from trauma, including complex trauma.
Starting therapy begins with reaching out to schedule an initial consultation or first appointment. During that first step, we will talk about what brings you to therapy, your goals, and any questions you may have about the process. From there, we can determine the best approach for your needs and begin creating a treatment plan that feels supportive, personalized, and manageable.
Yes, therapy sessions are confidential. Protecting your privacy is an important part of creating a safe and supportive therapeutic space. There are a few legal and ethical limits to confidentiality, which will be reviewed with you at the beginning of therapy, but in general, what you share in session is kept private and treated with care and respect.
Somatic therapy supports trauma healing by helping clients notice and work with how trauma is held in the body, not just in thoughts or memories. Trauma can affect the nervous system in ways that lead to tension, overwhelm, numbness, or feeling constantly on edge. Through gentle body-based awareness and regulation techniques, somatic therapy helps clients reconnect with their bodies, build a greater sense of safety, and process trauma in a way that feels grounded and manageable.
That is completely understandable. Not every therapy experience is the right fit, and a previous approach that did not feel helpful does not mean therapy cannot be meaningful for you now. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, I offer a personalized, trauma-informed approach tailored to your unique needs, goals, and pace. Together, we work to create a safe and supportive space that feels more aligned with the healing you are seeking.
Your first therapy session is an opportunity for me to begin building a thoughtful understanding of your experiences, concerns, and goals. I will guide the conversation with care, creating space to discuss what brings you to therapy, your personal history, and any questions you may have about the process. This initial session is designed to help you feel at ease while laying the foundation for a therapeutic approach that is personalized to your needs.
Experience transformative healing with Internal Family Systems Therapy, a compassionate approach that nurtures your inner parts, promoting personal growth and resilience through effective trauma healing and self-led therapy.
Experience compassionate and evidence-based PTSD treatment, including trauma-focused therapy and clinical counseling, designed to support your journey towards healing and recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder.
Experience compassionate relationship trauma counseling that focuses on healing interpersonal wounds, fostering secure attachments, and promoting resilience through specialized attachment-based therapy tailored to your unique journey.
Experience compassionate grief and loss counseling that supports your healing journey, helping you navigate bereavement, cope with loss, and find peace through specialized therapy tailored to your needs.
Experience compassionate support with our Stress and Emotional Overwhelm Therapy, designed to help you manage stress, regulate emotions, and overcome burnout through effective techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Coping with complicated grief is a unique and individual journey that requires time, patience, and support. By recognizing the symptoms and understanding treatment options, individuals can take proactive steps toward healing. Whether through therapy, support groups, or personal rituals, finding a path through complicated grief is possible. Remember, you are not alone on this journey, and reaching out for help is a sign of strength.
If you or someone you know is struggling with complicated grief, consider reaching out to Touchstone Trauma Therapy for support. Our team is here to help guide you through this challenging time and help you find your way toward healing.
------END----
Individual therapy for clients ages 14 and older offers a personalized space to work through life's challenges, deepen self-understanding, and support lasting emotional well-being.
Trauma-informed care is an approach to therapy that recognizes how past trauma can affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, relationships, and physical responses. It focuses on creating a safe, supportive, and respectful environment where clients feel heard, empowered, and never pressured. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, trauma-informed care means tailoring treatment to each person’s needs while using approaches that support healing at a pace that feels manageable and safe. At TTT, we utilize Evidence Based modalities such as EMDR, IFS and Somatic/Mindfulness that are effective in addressing and healing from trauma, including complex trauma.
Starting therapy begins with reaching out to schedule an initial consultation or first appointment. During that first step, we will talk about what brings you to therapy, your goals, and any questions you may have about the process. From there, we can determine the best approach for your needs and begin creating a treatment plan that feels supportive, personalized, and manageable.
Yes, therapy sessions are confidential. Protecting your privacy is an important part of creating a safe and supportive therapeutic space. There are a few legal and ethical limits to confidentiality, which will be reviewed with you at the beginning of therapy, but in general, what you share in session is kept private and treated with care and respect.
Somatic therapy supports trauma healing by helping clients notice and work with how trauma is held in the body, not just in thoughts or memories. Trauma can affect the nervous system in ways that lead to tension, overwhelm, numbness, or feeling constantly on edge. Through gentle body-based awareness and regulation techniques, somatic therapy helps clients reconnect with their bodies, build a greater sense of safety, and process trauma in a way that feels grounded and manageable.
That is completely understandable. Not every therapy experience is the right fit, and a previous approach that did not feel helpful does not mean therapy cannot be meaningful for you now. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, I offer a personalized, trauma-informed approach tailored to your unique needs, goals, and pace. Together, we work to create a safe and supportive space that feels more aligned with the healing you are seeking.
Your first therapy session is an opportunity for me to begin building a thoughtful understanding of your experiences, concerns, and goals. I will guide the conversation with care, creating space to discuss what brings you to therapy, your personal history, and any questions you may have about the process. This initial session is designed to help you feel at ease while laying the foundation for a therapeutic approach that is personalized to your needs.
Our services are designed for individuals, couples, and teens seeking support for mental health challenges.
Whether you are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, or self-esteem concerns, Touchstone Trauma Therapy is here to guide you on your journey to healing.
TTT offers services to the cities of Montrose, Glendale, La Crescenta, La Canada, Burbank and Pasadena. TTT also offers remote video sessions throughout the state of California.
Individual therapy for clients ages 14 and older offers a personalized space to work through life's challenges, deepen self-understanding, and support lasting emotional well-being.
