What is Grief Education?

As a Peer-to-Peer Grief Educator, I work with women who are navigating the cascade of losses that stem from betrayal trauma in their significant relationship (spouse, life partner). The trauma of the relationship injury makes the grief complicated and multi-layered. Typically, the losses associated with betrayal trauma are also hard to see as they are often judged and minimized by ourselves and society. Some of the many losses women experience: loss of safety, security, and sense of self; loss of income and financial hardship (especially if there are legal consequences); loss of friendships and community in the aftermath, leading to isolation and/or ostracization; loss of vitality, joy, and spontaneity; loss of health if the acute stress leads to chronic health conditions. And the list can go on. As a Grief Educator, I think it is vital that we take each loss and name it, release the feelings, and allow ourselves to feel the pain of the loss. Only then can we slowly begin to rebuild ourselves from the inside out. We were not responsible for this trauma, but we are responsible for our healing. In many cases, old wounds from our family of origin are triggered, adding to the complicated grief process. I support women to sort out what’s what and am there to witness, hold space, and validate ALL the feelings. It’s a messy process that can’t be done alone. As someone who has experienced this type of grief from my own betrayal trauma, I know all too well it’s many facets. It is truly my honor and privilege to be of support, as many were for me.