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 universal experience that can profoundly impact our lives, yet it is often misunderstood. The journey through loss is not merely a linear path; it is a complex process that can leave us feeling lost, confused, and overwhelmed. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we recognize the importance of understanding grief as a process, and we are here to support individuals navigating this difficult terrain through our specialized Grief and Loss Counseling.
Grief is the emotional response to loss, particularly the loss of someone or something significant. It can manifest in various forms, including sadness, anger, confusion, and even relief, depending on the nature of the loss. Grief is not just an emotional experience; it can also have physical, cognitive, and social effects. Individuals may experience changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. Understanding grief is the first step in learning how to cope with it effectively.
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.
One of the most widely recognized frameworks for understanding grief is the Five Stages of Grief, developed by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross. While not everyone will experience all these stages, they provide a helpful way to conceptualize the grieving process:
Grief can feel isolating, but it is essential to remember that you are not alone. Grief and Loss Counseling can provide a vital support system for individuals navigating their pain. Here’s how counseling can assist in the grieving process:
Grief and loss counseling is a powerful tool that can help individuals navigate the complex journey of grief. By providing emotional support, understanding the grieving process, developing coping strategies, creating rituals, and building resilience, counseling can facilitate healing and growth in the aftermath of loss. If you or someone you know is struggling with grief, seeking the guidance of a qualified counselor can be a pivotal step toward finding peace and hope for the future.
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.
While grief is a personal journey, hearing the stories of others can provide comfort and hope. Many individuals who have experienced significant loss have found solace in sharing their experiences. One client at Touchstone Trauma Therapy shared how expressing their grief in a supportive environment helped them process their feelings of anger and sadness. Through counseling, they learned to navigate their grief, ultimately finding a way to celebrate the life of their loved one rather than being consumed by loss.
Another client reflected on how grief counseling allowed them to confront complicated feelings surrounding their loss. They discovered that acknowledging their pain was a crucial step toward healing. These personal stories illustrate that while grief is a deeply individual experience, the journey can be made easier with the right support.
To these experiences, many people find that sharing their stories can also foster a sense of connection with others who are navigating similar paths. This shared understanding can be incredibly validating, as it reinforces the notion that grief is a universal experience, albeit one that manifests uniquely in each individual. Below, we explore more personal stories of grief and healing, highlighting how different approaches to grief and loss counseling can make a profound difference in one's healing journey.
One poignant example is the story of Sarah, who lost her mother unexpectedly. Initially, Sarah felt isolated in her grief, as if no one could truly understand the depth of her pain. However, after joining a grief support group, she found herself surrounded by individuals who had faced similar losses. Sharing her story in this safe space allowed her to express emotions she had bottled up for months. Over time, Sarah learned that talking about her mother’s life and the joy she brought to others helped shift her focus from loss to love. She began to celebrate her mother's birthday by organizing a small gathering with friends and family, a tradition that not only honored her mother’s memory but also reinforced the bonds Sarah had with others who shared in her grief.
Another example is Mike, a father who lost his son to a tragic accident. Mike struggled with feelings of guilt and anger, questioning whether he could have done something to prevent the tragedy. Through grief and loss counseling, he learned that these emotions were normal but needed to be addressed. His counselor introduced him to journaling as a form of therapeutic expression. Mike began writing letters to his son, sharing his thoughts, feelings, and memories. This practice became a cathartic outlet, allowing him to process his grief while also feeling a connection to his son. Over time, Mike found healing not only in writing but also in participating in community events that raised awareness about safe practices for children, transforming his grief into advocacy.
The story of Lisa, who lost her partner after a long illness, highlights another facet of grief. Lisa described her experience as a rollercoaster of emotions. At first, she felt relief that her partner was no longer suffering, but that relief quickly gave way to a profound sense of loneliness. Seeking grief counseling, Lisa was encouraged to explore her feelings of relief alongside her grief. This duality was challenging, but her counselor helped her understand it as a natural part of the grieving process. Lisa began to engage in activities that her partner had loved, such as hiking and cooking, which served as a tribute to their shared life while also allowing her to process her own emotions. Through this journey, she discovered new friendships and a supportive community that helped her rebuild her life.
These stories emphasize the importance of support and the various paths individuals may take toward healing. Here are some practical steps that can be drawn from these experiences:
The journey through grief is a deeply personal one, and the stories we share can serve as guiding lights for others. By opening up about our experiences, we create spaces of understanding and compassion that can help others navigate their own grief. The power of these narratives lies not only in their ability to comfort but also in their potential to inspire healing and resilience in the face of loss. Grief and loss counseling, paired with personal storytelling, can illuminate the path forward, offering hope and connection during one of life’s most challenging experiences.
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 grief, it’s essential to seek help. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we specialize in Trauma Therapy, including Grief and Loss Counseling. Our dedicated team understands the nuances of grief and is committed to providing personalized care tailored to each individual's needs. You do not have to navigate this journey alone.
Located in Montrose, CA, we invite you to reach out to us today. You can contact us at 626-824-8572 or visit our website at touchstonetraumatherapy.com for more information. You can also connect with us on Facebook and Instagram.
Healing after loss is a journey that takes time, but with the right support, you can find your way through it. Don’t hesitate to reach out for the guidance and understanding you deserve.
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.
