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.
Experiencing the loss of a loved one can be one of the most challenging and painful events in life. The grief that follows can feel overwhelming, isolating, and at times, unbearable. in such moments, seeking support through bereavement therapy can be a vital step toward healing. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we understand the profound impact of grief and the necessity of addressing it with compassion and professionalism. Our grief and loss counseling services are designed to guide individuals and families through this difficult journey.
Bereavement therapy is a specialized form of therapy aimed at helping individuals cope with the emotional, psychological, and social challenges that arise after the death of a loved one. This therapeutic approach focuses on facilitating the mourning process and assisting individuals in navigating their feelings of loss, sadness, anger, and confusion. Grief is not a linear process, and bereavement therapy acknowledges this complexity by providing a supportive environment where individuals can explore their unique grief responses. The therapy can take various forms, including:
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, our approach to bereavement therapy is holistic and trauma-informed, recognizing that grief can manifest in various ways and impact mental health. We tailor our therapy sessions to meet the unique needs of each client, helping them find their path to healing. Understanding that grief can trigger a range of emotions is essential. It’s common for individuals to face feelings of guilt, anger, and even relief, especially if the loved one had been suffering. Our therapists are trained to create a safe and non-judgmental space where these feelings can be processed openly.
One important aspect of bereavement therapy is the emphasis on the individual’s narrative. Each person’s relationship with the deceased is unique, and recognizing this is vital to the healing process. Clients are encouraged to share stories about their loved ones, helping them to keep the memory alive while also processing the pain of their absence. This narrative approach often involves the creation of memory boxes or journals where clients can document their thoughts, feelings, and memories. Such activities not only honor the deceased but also serve as therapeutic tools that facilitate emotional release.
To discussing emotional responses, bereavement therapy often includes practical strategies for coping with daily life after loss. Clients may learn mindfulness techniques to help manage overwhelming emotions, such as deep breathing exercises or meditation. These practices can ground individuals in the present moment, allowing them to experience their grief without becoming engulfed in it. For example, a therapist might guide clients through a simple mindfulness exercise where they focus on their breath, acknowledge their feelings, and gently redirect their thoughts away from distressing memories.
Another vital component of bereavement therapy is establishing a support network. Clients are encouraged to identify friends, family members, or support groups that can provide additional encouragement and understanding. This network can be invaluable, as it allows individuals to share their grief journey with others who can offer empathy and companionship. Therapists may also facilitate the process of reaching out to these support systems, helping clients build confidence in seeking help beyond the therapy room.
Bereavement therapy can incorporate the exploration of rituals and memorials as part of the healing process. Engaging in rituals, such as lighting a candle on anniversaries, visiting a grave, or holding a memorial service, can provide a sense of closure and a way to honor the deceased. Therapists can assist clients in creating personalized rituals that resonate with their beliefs and emotions, making the grieving process feel more meaningful and less isolating.
It is also essential to understand that bereavement therapy is not a quick fix. Healing takes time, and the process is often non-linear. Clients may experience setbacks or feel as if they are progressing one moment and feeling overwhelmed the next. This unpredictability can be frustrating; however, therapists work to normalize these feelings, reminding clients that their journey is unique to them and that it is okay to seek help whenever needed.
For those who may be hesitant to engage in bereavement therapy due to stigma or misconceptions about therapy in general, it is crucial to highlight that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Many individuals find that talking to a professional helps them gain clarity and perspective on their grief. Therapists provide tools and coping strategies that empower clients to manage their emotions effectively, leading to healthier grieving processes.
Bereavement therapy is a compassionate and supportive approach to navigating the complex emotions that arise after losing a loved one. By offering various therapeutic modalities and emphasizing the importance of individual experiences, bereavement therapy can significantly aid in the healing journey. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we are committed to helping our clients find their path to healing, understanding that each step is a vital part of their unique grief journey.
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.
Engaging in bereavement therapy offers numerous benefits that can significantly aid in the healing process. Here are some of the key advantages:
Many individuals have found solace and support through bereavement therapy. While each journey is unique, success stories often share common themes of resilience and hope. For instance, clients have reported:
These success stories illustrate that, though the path through grief is often fraught with difficulty, it is possible to find healing and a renewed sense of purpose.
To delve deeper into the transformative power of bereavement therapy, let’s explore specific examples that highlight its effectiveness and the diverse approaches therapists use to help individuals navigate their grief.
One poignant story comes from Sarah, a 45-year-old woman who lost her husband unexpectedly. Struggling with intense feelings of guilt and anger, Sarah felt isolated and overwhelmed. She decided to seek bereavement therapy after a friend suggested it. in her first few sessions, Sarah learned that her feelings were a natural part of the grieving process. Her therapist introduced her to techniques such as journaling, which allowed her to express her emotions freely. Over time, Sarah found that writing about her memories helped her to remember her husband with love instead of pain. She began to create a scrapbook, filling it with photographs and notes that celebrated their life together. This process not only honored her husband’s memory but also helped her to find joy in the moments they shared.
Another compelling example is that of James, a father who lost his teenage daughter in a tragic accident. Consumed by grief, James felt disconnected from his surviving family members. He entered bereavement therapy reluctantly, fearing it would force him to confront feelings he was not ready to face. However, through guided sessions, his therapist encouraged him to participate in family therapy, creating a safe space for open discussions about their shared loss. James discovered that his wife and son were also struggling, but they had been hesitant to talk about their feelings. Together, they began to share stories, tears, and laughter, gradually rebuilding their family bond. The therapist helped them establish a weekly family night dedicated to honoring their daughter, which became a cherished tradition. This healing process illustrated how bereavement therapy can not only aid individual healing but also facilitate family cohesion during times of crisis.
Bereavement therapy is not limited to traditional talk therapy. Creative modalities, such as art therapy, have proven effective for many individuals. For instance, Emily, a 30-year-old artist, utilized her artistic skills as a means to cope with the loss of her mother. in therapy, she engaged in creating visual pieces that expressed her grief. Through painting and sculpture, Emily was able to channel her emotions into tangible forms, which helped her process her sorrow. Her therapist guided her in exploring the symbolism of her artwork, encouraging her to reflect on what each piece represented about her relationship with her mother. This creative outlet not only provided Emily with a means of expression but also became a source of empowerment, allowing her to rediscover her passion for art while honoring her mother’s legacy.
Another powerful aspect of bereavement therapy is the integration of mindfulness and self-care practices. Many therapists incorporate mindfulness techniques to help clients stay grounded during their emotional turmoil. For example, Tom, a retired veteran, faced the loss of his brother to cancer. Through bereavement therapy, he was introduced to mindfulness meditation, which taught him to focus on the present moment rather than being consumed by past regrets or future anxieties. By practicing mindfulness, Tom learned to acknowledge his pain without judgment, allowing him to sit with his grief instead of avoiding it. Over time, this practice brought him a sense of calm and resilience, enabling him to cope with his loss more effectively. Tom also began to engage in regular exercise and outdoor activities, which were encouraged by his therapist as part of a holistic approach to healing.
Practical guidance for those considering bereavement therapy includes recognizing that the journey is not linear. Each person’s experience with grief is distinct, and it’s vital to find a therapist who resonates with you personally. When seeking a bereavement therapist, look for someone who specializes in grief and loss counseling, as they will have the tools and understanding necessary to guide you through your specific challenges.
Consider the following tips when starting bereavement therapy:
As evidenced by the stories of Sarah, James, Emily, and Tom, bereavement therapy can lead to profound transformations that foster healing and growth. By embracing the therapeutic process and utilizing various tools and techniques, individuals can navigate their grief with greater resilience and hope. The path through grief may be challenging, but with the right support, it is possible to find light in the darkness and move toward a future filled with renewed purpose and joy.
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.
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.
If you or someone you know is struggling with the aftermath of a loss, it is essential to seek help. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, our team is dedicated to providing the support and guidance needed during this challenging time. We specialize in trauma therapy and grief recovery therapy, offering compassionate care tailored to individual needs in Montrose, CA.
Don't face this journey alone. Contact us today at 626-824-8572 or visit our website at touchstonetraumatherapy.com to learn more about our bereavement support services. You can also reach out to Kristin at kristin@touchstonetraumatherapy.com for any inquiries. We are here to help you navigate your grief and find a path toward healing.
Remember, healing is a journey, and you don’t have to walk it alone. Together, we can work towards finding peace and resilience in the face of loss.
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.
