Product Description
In this remarkable book, John Welshons weaves together his own personal awakening with those of others he’s counseled to create a deeply felt and beautifully expressed primer on dealing with grief. Grieving, says Welshons, offers a unique opportunity to develop deeper and fuller life experiences, to embrace pain in order to open the heart to joy. Written for those who have experienced any kind of loss — death, divorce, or disappointment — this book offers reasonable, reassuring thinking on dealing with the death of loved ones and ourselves, finding the inner gifts that promote healing, and much more. Awakening from Grief takes a rare and compelling positive look at a subject needlessly viewed as one of the most negative in life. This is a persuasive primer on drawing the joy out of grief. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (29)

A must read
My 29 year old daughter was murdered last year. I started reading anything I could find at the library just trying to figure out how I was going to survive this or if I really wanted to. After reading many books I found "Awakening from Grief" and couldn't put it down. It made me look at things in a different way and with a different understanding. This book has helped me more then I had ever imagined it would and I think just about anyone at whatever point you are in your life needs to read this book. I have since bought my own copy of it and am just finishing it for the second time. I am looking forward to reading more books by John Welshons

Life Changing
I am not one who has had many "light bulb moments in my life" but this book turned a switch in my life and allowed me to heal.Multiple losses (a foster child back to her parents, fires, deaths, job, and a divorce) left me paralyzed.Overwhelmed by the continuous waves of losses, my defense was to not feel.I finally understood that if I was to feel joy again, I had to let the losses "be real".To not feel loss was to also not feel joy and I have too much in my life to be joyful about.

One of the things I liked about this book is that it does not only address losses due to a death - there are so many losses one can experience - loss of self, loss of family, loss of home.I am grateful to feel myself again and to have learned how to integrate the losses into my life - they must surely are a part of me as much as the joys are.

I have bought this book for many friends and they have had positive results as well.

Received before expected date
This book arrived ahead of schedule, in good condition and the price was right!Thanks for making shopping so easy.

Awakening from Grief, Fining the Road Back to Joy

John Welshons is an amazing author. His first book, Awakening from Grief, has brought so much peace and healing to my family, friends and myself. With every turn of a page, I felt more and more blessed to have met John and been touched by his gift of healing the soul.

THE FINEST BOOK I'VE READ ON THIS SUBJECT!
This book offers us a unique and precious opportunity to open our hearts to the fullness of our human predicament.John Welshons' approach is both incredibly loving, and - at times - breathtakingly honest.He is an extraordinarily gifted writer, a wonderful meditation teacher, and a wise and compassionate counselor.He seems to have a basic trust in our inherent inner strength and wisdom.He skillfully guides us to finding a place of quiet, loving contentment within ourselves in spite of all of the curve-balls life often throws at us.Through sharing some amazing experiences of loss and disappointment in his own life, he demonstrates - repeatedly - how to find real and lasting joy in spite of life's uncertainties.This book is a wonderfully accessible expression of the very same wisdom shared by Stephen Levine, Pema Chodron, and Elisabeth Kubler-Ross . . . in a somewhat less esoteric and more immediately comprehensible form.Awakening from Grief has changed my life.I hope you will allow it to work its magic on you! ... Read more

Product Description
In her wise and compassionate guide GriefSteps, best-selling author Brook Noel shared the steps one must take to grieve successfully and rebuild a full life after loss. This companion workbook offers step-by-step exercises based on years of research and working with the bereaved. For anyone seeking to work through their grief on their own or in a support group setting, this companion workbook reveals the 10 Steps that we must take to face our grief and heal.
Whether your loss is a relationship, a job, a loved one, or a piece of yourself, there are universal steps that must be taken to rebuild. Noel reveals each step along with exercises and HopeNotes to guide you in your journey. Whether your loss is recent or years ago, GriefSteps will show you how to resolve and reconcile your world to find contentment and purpose in your life.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Thanks to the friend that sent this book
Sudden tragic loss is fortunately the visitor of few people.But when it comes to your door, it is monumental and unforgetable.I was blessed to be sent this book about 2 weeks after the loss.It is well written and was a constant companion for many weeks.If you find yourself in my place this treasure will help you very much.

D.Larry D.

Great help for recovering from feelings of loss
There are a lot of different kinds of losses we all must face at one time or another.Each one can put us onto an emotional rollercoaster whether it is the loss of a loved one, a job, a friendship, or a multitude of other possibilities.In "Grief Steps" author Brook Noel discusses the ten normal steps for working through grief.For some people one step may be so short that it is unnoticed as they pass through, others may spend a great deal of time in that particular place.We are all different and while we handle grief differently in many respects we also go through it in similar stages.This book is about those stages and moving through the progression to healing.

Each of the grief steps has its own chapter, with extensive information on what to expect in that particular step.For each stage there are also exercises, activities, or goals to help you work through that step and on to the next stage of healing.

"Grief Steps: 10 Steps to Regroup, Rebuild and Renew After Any Loss" is a strong treatment of grief associated with any type of loss and is well done.However, if your loss were the loss of a person very close to you I would recommend her other book, "I Wasn't Ready to Say Goodbye".That is not to say that this book would not be valuable if you lost a loved one, just that the other one is better for that particular type of loss.On the other hand, if you are experiencing loss and grief due to the loss of a job, empty nest syndrome, divorce, or similar situations then this book may be your better bet."Grief Steps" is well done and highly recommended. ... Read more

Product Description
Suffering the loss of a loved one at any time of the year is difficult, yet during the holidays or special occasions, those grieving experience a more intense sense of loss.The world is moving forward and celebrating life and all its blessings, yet for grievers, a darkness pervades the holiday.This book is an invitation to Christmas and its companion holidays of the season which compose a grueling triathlon which begins on Thanksgiving and continues unabated for forty-five days until the last of the bowl games on New Year’s Day.Through quotes, prayers, Scriptures and the words of the author, A Decembered Grief is designed to guide the reader on the journey beyond ’the shadow’ and directly through ’the valley of death.’Paper. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

A Decembered Grief
I thought this book was very useful.It gave suggestions on how to deal with all types of grief in a realistic manner.It was written in a compassionate and easy to understand way, also.I've been using it with the clients I work with in our outpatient mental health program, and they respond poitively to the book, also.

A Decembered Grief: Living with Loss while Others are Celebrating
This book is one of the best on the market for grieving. It covers how to handle the process, gives tips on how to handle Holiday celebrations, birthdays, when people say stupid things.

It is written in 3-4 page chapters---easy to read and very effective.I have given this for about 5 years to people ---especially in the case of a sudden death, and or the death of a young person.

Think it is one of the best available.

A step in a healing direction
When I first picked up this book, I thought, "Is it going to be good?," and I was pleasantly surprised. It helped me reach a horizon of encouragement to continue on after I lost a loved one. It sought to gently answer the questions and anger many people have in a state of mourning. I highly reccommend this book to anyone who is looking for comfort on a page.

A comforting book
This book can heal the wounded soul.It is an eloquent reminder that when we suffer we do not suffer alone.

If you're interested in this kind of book, I'd highly recommend Christmas Gifts, Christmas Voices, by John Allen.

Excellent Gift for Holiday Grief
The format of this book is "just right" for grievers. Short sections allow the reader to read as little or as much as they can handle at one sitting. This is an excellent gift for the seasons of Fall and Winter when society inundates us with holiday celebrations and togetherness. Since September 11, 2001, this book ought to become a best-seller. I've given out at least a dozen copies to family and friends. ... Read more

Product Description
In the early 1970s bereavement support groups were almost unknown. However, the obvious benefits of the group process for recovery - the mutual support and understanding that helps mourners to a better outlook - has created a demand for people who can organise and facilitate these groups.; Addressing the basis and need for support groups for the bereaved, this book presents a theoretical overview, examines benefits and variety of support groups structured and unstructural, special populations and specifics for initiating, organising and running them, such as publicity. It differs from other treatments in that theory and practice are moulded into a how-to approach, with all procedures presented equally for the widest range of choices. Also included is a comprehensive book bibliography for adults, children, children's helpers and parents.; This text is intended to be of use as a resource for professionals in the field of thanatology, including psychologists, psychiatrists, gerontologists, therapists, group counsellors, hospice workers, educators, funeral home directors, home health employees, hospital staff and volunteer organisations that work with survivors. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (2)

Wonderful Book
As usual Alan Wolfelt does a wonderful job in providing good and realistic ideas for those who are in need of support after the death of a loved one.

practical holiday grief advice
I purchased this book (along with some others) to help prepare a 40 minute discussion/talk on managing grief during the holidays.True to its' name, it did have 100 practical ideas to help with mourning and loss during the holidays.I found some of the ideas to be new and helpful while others were pretty much common sense ideas.This is a good read if you are simply short on ideas and looking for a few good suggestions on how to incorporate the memory of someone into your holiday traditions.This book really is focused on the practical advice though, so I would look elsewhere if you are wanting a book to help you understand the process of grief and how the holidays complicate mourning. ... Read more

Product Description
Do men and women grieve differently?This new text, while emphasizing that there are many ways to cope with grief, offers a refreshing change from the popular gender stereotypes of grief.Two patterns of grieving are described: an intuitive pattern where individuals experience and express grief in an affective way (stereotyped as female); and an instrumental pattern where grief is expressed physically or cognitively (stereotyped as male). A third pattern representing a blending of these two is also introduced.Of critical importance is that such patterns are related to, but not determined by, gender; and each has distinct strengths and weaknesses.

Organized into three main parts, this topical new text begins by defining terms, introducing and delineating the grief patterns, and rooting the book's concept in contemporary theories of grief.The second part speculates on factors that may influence individuals' patterns of coping with loss (e.g., personality, gender, culture, etc.).The final part considers implications and therapeutic interventions likely to be effective with different types of grievers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

men don't cry, women do
I needed a dictionary to get started. Some of the vocabulary was used in a way I was not familiar with.I've facilitated grief groups and families for 15 years and this book was helpful in helping me understand the men in these groups a little better.I also felt in some ways this book was written by Ph.D's for Ph.D's, it could have been a little more lay person friendly.
The book arrived in good shape and in a timely fashion.

Very informative
I bought this book for a course on grief and loss. I found the information invaluable, giving me a whole new perspective on the way we grieve.The title doesn't do it much justice.It's a must read. ... Read more

Product Description
It's something no married person wants to imagine.Yeteach year, eight hundred thousand individuals mourn the passing of ahusband or wife.

Coming alongside the grieving spouse, psychologist SusanZonnebelt-Smeenge and pastor/professor Robert De Vries providemuch-needed support from a unique perspective--empathy. They eachsuffered the loss of their spouse at a relatively young age.Throughout Getting to the Other Side of Grief, the authors share theirstories as living proof that if worked through properly, grief willlead the way to a fresh new life.

Beginning with the premise that a full resolution to grief ispossible, the authors extend this lifeline to readers: Completehealing doesn't happen without intentional effort (time alone doesn'theal), and this intentional effort, for complete success, must combineChristian faith and sound mental health practices. In offering theseinterwoven disciplines, the authors give readers the benefit of boththe male and female perspective.

Readers will find getting to the other side of grief less lonely andmore promising in the empathetic company of these two authors. Thosewho assist grieving persons on their journeys--pastors, counselors,family members, friends--will find this a useful supplement to thesupport they offer.

... Read more

Customer Reviews (40)

Reading about grief
Before I read this book I read a negative but very popular review. Now that I've read the book, I believe the author of that review, in her pain and suffering, misread what the author of the book actually said. What he said is what is actually in the bible. Death entered the world when Adam and Eve were put out of the Garden of Eden. Half the book is about a very specific kind of spiritual belief.If you can't handle Genesis this is not the book for you.

The practical half of the book, which is very clearly marked as being written by the therapist is excellent for anyone. The spiritual half of the book is clearly written for a specific segment of the general population. Although I don't belong to that segment of the population I found what the Pastor had to say useful anyway.

Both of the authors lost their first spouses, both of them after marriages long enough to have raised children to adulthood. They have been where their readers are and what they have to say, both the practical things and the spiritual things, are helpful if you are trying to work your way to the other side of grief.

It helped me!
As a recent widower (four months ago) I've read numerous books on the topic of grieving.But this book has helped me with the process more than the others.Why?Because it specifically dealt with the loss of a spouse.The authors both experienced a similar loss.The pastor lost his wife, and the psychologist lost her husband.They teamed up giving their point of view from their gender - AND from their vocation. Writing from their professional training and personal experience is priceless.It also helped immensely that they were Christians, as I am as well.
The book helped me understand the grieving process, my emotions, and my needs.I'd recommend it highly.

Help when needed for the huge pain of grief over losing a spouse
I lost my husband two years ago.Along with friends, faith and this book, I don't know how I would have made it through.I am much better now, but still have times of sadness and still go back to this wonderful book for help.It not only takes you through your grief, but goes beyond and deals with your life when you are ready to move on.

One Mans Opinion
This is an excellent book for help in coping with the loss of a loved one. I use it in my ministry to help those needing help during their time of sorrow, and they tell me that it helps more than any other books they've read.

Getting To The Other Side of Grief
This book is very helpful for those who have lost their spouse.I purchased it for myself to help me understand what a friend was going through when he lost his wife, then my sister lost her husband and I bought her a copy.It is hard to go through this process, but knowing what you feel is normal and that moving on in life is ok, you learn to make your journey and get to the otherside.Just know, it takes time. Grief is a process and you can make. ... Read more

Product Description
This work argues that dying and bereavement are issues for all social care practitioners, illustrating the wide variety of ways in which they are involved. Examples are taken from mainstream as well as specialist settings. Early chapters focus upon the relevance of theoretical understandings and the perspectives of dying and bereaved people themselves. There is detailed consideration of practitioners' accounts of their responses to people who are grieving. Conclusions relate to issues of training and support, and implications for practice. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Invisible Widow
Following the death of my former husband to a fatal heart attack less thantwo years after our divorce - with the hopes that he would seek therapy, wewould reconcile and live happily ever after, I must have read every bookout there on grief/bereavement/mourning - searching for someone who knewhow I felt. I didn't feel divorced and every fiber of my being felt like Iwas a widow after 20 years of marriage, but because of a piece of paper,society didn't recognize it.I kept thinking if 50 % of all marriages endin divorce, why am I having so much trouble finding validation for myfeelings,This book was recommended through another book on grief.It isabout all the people of society who grieve and are unacknowledged. It is awonderful "layman's" book even if it is a textbook. Alltherapists shuld be required to read it. ... Read more

Product Description
This small book makes a thoughtful, helpful gift foranyone who has lost a loved one. Its low price also makes itaffordable as a give-away item from pastors, counselors, lay visitors,and friends.

Drawn from Jim Miller's best-selling Winter Grief, Summer Grace, thisbook includes the helpful features of the original-a compassionateexploration of feelings; inspiring passages from the Bible, poetry andgreat literature; and simple renewal activities that help readers movethrough stages, or "seasons," of grief at their own pace and in theirown unique way. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Great gift, Fast delivery. Thank you!
This book was a great gift to a friend who is grieving. She has said a few times how it has helped her on a day to day basis to pick it up and read an exerpt. I love that there are quotes from different avenues...it demonstrates well that grief is no biast to any race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual preference or otherwise.

Delivery was fast!

Excellent Resource for thos going through pain
I lost my youngest sister suddenly 5 months ago. She left a husband and 3 children behind. I purchased this book for my brother-in-law. He was overwhelmed at the sweet simplicity of the book. I, too, really enjoyed the assurance of the book.

SEASONS OF GRIEF AND HEALING
I was amazed at how comforting this book was to me. Very beautiful poetry and poetic phrases.I was able to see my mourning of my mother's death from a completely different view, and this brought me a sense of peace.If only I had read this book earlier, possibly I could have averted some of my pain upon her passing.

One of my survival tools
Following the death of my son, "Seasons of Grief and Healing" was the first book I could actually read (and I mean actually read the sentences and understand and relate to their meanings). I would only read until what the book was saying stopped pretaining to me and how I was feeling. I would later pick up the book and continue to read until, again, it was beyond what I was feeling or could comprehend. I haven't quite finished the book yet...I'm just to that stage yet.

I now give this book to people I know who have lost a very important person in their life hoping that they too will be able to find some encouragements, faith, and/or hope in the words of the quotes, poems and passages within this wonderful book. Thank you Mr. Miller

C. Zillmann (Mike's wife)

Gift for the grieving soul
I purchased this book for a friend grieving the loss of her husband.Welive across the country and I could not be with her.She said this book is the first with encouragement that she can grieve in her own way on her own schedule.The book is written from a spirit of caring and does not suggest what steps to go through when.The message that "it's in your own time and your own schedule" is precious to her. ... Read more

Product Description
Contains lesson plans for 10 sessions that include age-appropriate activities. These fun and engaging activities enable young children to approach highly sensitive and painful topics. ... Read more

Product Description
How to handle holidays and special occasions without your loved one.

Whether you've lost a spouse, parent, child, friend, or sibling, The Empty Chair invites you to journey through grief toward life-giving healing. You'll learn how to incorporate new traditions on special days like anniversaries and birthdays, create memorials that honor and affirm your loved one's life, rebuild your individual sense of identity, and more. Most of all, you'll discover a new sense of joy that can become a special part of future holidays. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

The Empty Chair: Handling Grief on Holidays and Special Occasions
I didn't find this book helpfull at all.I'm seriously tired of hearing and reading "your loved one died you didn't" because it doesn't feel that way.I hope if you try this book in your grieving process you can get more from it than I did

easy and quick read for grief advice
I used this book to help prepare a 40 minute discussion/talk on managing grief during the holidays.I would recommend it for several reasons: first, it's easy to read and pretty short but still adequate enough for the specific topic; second, I really liked the organization of the chapters - each section was broken down into a chapter about a phase of grief, a chapter on Christian meditation specific to that phase, and a chapter on practical application and actions you could try for that phase.Overall I would say this is a great read if you are looking for something quick and basic with some practical advice strewn throughout.It is not a comprehensive psychological look at grief and I also wouldn't recommend it for someone who is in the immediate wake of a loss.

A Comforting Read
As I was getting ready to order another copy of Christmas Gifts, Christmas Voices, I noticed that this book was advertised as being a book on a similar topic.I am glad I found out about this book.(I think it's a great service that Amazon points out books similar to the ones you've ordered.)

This is a very comforting book.And I recommend it to anyone who has lost a loved one druing the holidays.The author writes in a gentle tone that is very appropirate for the subject matter.

Also recommended:Christmas Gifts, Christmas Voices--a story of grieving and loss that, in the end, leaves you inspired.

Very Helpful After Losing A Loved One
I found this book very helpful after losing a loved one.I particularly liked the format of this book.The authors give excellent ideas and suggestions as well as inspiring meditations.I highly recommend "The Empty Chair" to anyone who has experienced a death of someone close to them.

Help for anyone who has had a loved one die.
What a great book!In tackling a sometimes difficult topic, the authors did a splendid job in addressing holidays and other occasions and how to handle them after losing a loved one. I have enjoyed this book so much that I've recommended it to several friends. ... Read more

Product Description
Following a life shattering experience, a child enters upon a confusing emotional journey that can be likened to a prism of many colors of dark feelings like sadness and fear, but also warm feelings of love and courage. The way they deal with these feelings has a lasting impact on their life as they grow. The Colors of Grief explores strategies for supporting a grieving child to ensure a healthy growth into adulthood. Drawing on the latest research in neurology and psychology, Janis Di Ciacco illustrates the childa??s grieving process using a model of development that employs a??key stagesa??. These range from preverbal infancy (0a??2 years) through to early adulthood (about 25 years). She shows how a childa??s progress through these stages can be impaired by an early encounter with loss, which can contribute to cognitive, emotional and social difficulties. Drawing connections between bereavement, attachment issues and social dysfunction, the author suggests easy-to-use activities for intervention at each key stage, including infant massage, aromatherapy and storytelling.This is a revealing and accessible book for both parents and professionals working with, or caring for, bereaved infants, children or young adults. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Excellent resource!
Excellent resource for anyone wanting to better understand the feelings and behaviors of children who have experienced early losses, and how their experiences of loss effect relationships as an adult.This is a must read for therapists who deal with children.Sandra S. Thomas, Ph.D.

Outstanding Content!
Colors of Grief covers current research, strategies, and in depth analysis of how children, ages 0-25 deal with grieving and significant loss. Dr. DiCiacco provides specific suggestions for developmental stages. A neccessary book for all adults who are involved with children.

the colors of grief
The Colors of Grief: Understanding a Child's Journey Through Loss from Birth to AdulthoodThis book is the best!My husband and I have adopted 3 children.Parenting for everyone is challenging.For parents who have adopted children, there are many factors that go beyond the "normal" parenting responsibilities. Dr. DiCiacco's book is a great source of knowledge for me in trying to understand the "why is my child behaving like that?"What happens during a child's developmental years is so important.For an adopted child, grieving is already a part of their makeup.So to have a readable book full of knowledge that makes sense to my many questions is exciting.Our children have struggled in making good decisions and have difficulty in "connecting dots".I recommend all adoptive parents and professionals working with children to have a copy of this book to read and use as a resource.I guarantee you will be enlightened.DRM - Denver, Colorado

Excellent Resource
The Colors of Grief is an excellent resource for both parents and professionals. It is written in a clear and concise manner and offers excellent information when working with both children and adolescents. It offers therapeutic activities as well as transitional tools that are an exceptional resource. This book is a must!

Incredible book
This book is an absolute must for caregivers and professionals working with children.It is a compassionate, thorough, developmental look at loss through the eyes of a child.This book has been invaluable for me working with familites of loss. ... Read more

Product Description
For more than thirty years, our nation has argued about abortion.In that time, over 30 million women have had one or more abortions.While the political battle rages, little has been done to address the emotional needs of those who struggle with feelings of grief, shame, guilt, and feeling judged by others.Instead, social taboos stifle discussion of abortion-related feelings.Women are left feeling isolated, and their recovery is inhibited. "Forbidden Grief", as one reviewer commented, "stands to become a classic on many levels: as a source of self-discovery for the millions of women who have had abortions, as a learning experience for all the other lay readers, [and] as a textbook for psychotherapists."--Dr. Patrick Fagan, former Deputy Assistant Director of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Forbidden grief - abortion and healing
I saw this book recommended on a website first where the author, who is a pschychiatrist was being interviewed. It has stories from many women who have had an abortion, how it has affected their lives and the necessary grieving process that may be years in happening. My 55 year old daughter was in tears recently when relating that the child she aborted would have been 25 years old now.

Forbidden Grief:The Unspoken Pain of Abortion
This amazing work by Dr. Burke, and we can't forget Dr. David Reardon, is groundbreaking and most certainly a wake-up call to the realities of post-abortion trauma affecting our culture in so many ways.It is a message of hope, compassion and truth that needs to be available to every woman, young and old. Eye opening, thought provoking to say the least....it certainly opened my eyes to some stark realitiesthat as one ponders the research it absolutely makes sense...It's interesting that in the information age of the 21st century we don't hear more about this....a must read for men.Men are affected by abortion too.A journey toward healing the heart....

Though-provoking
Very honest and thought-provoking look at women who sufffer from post-abortion syndrome.Theresa Burke writes about post-abortion symptoms from a very balanced perspective.She also shares stories of abortion through the eyes of clients she has seen.This book really makes you think.I would highly recommend it to anyone who has an interest in working with or knows someone who has had an abortion.

Post-abortive women are not the only ones who suffer!
Read this book. It changed my life. Almost had an abortion with my daughter... the guilt and pain over only thinking about it caught me off guard. My heart goes out to all the women and men who are currently suffering in silence after their abortion experiences...

Thank you Dr. Burke for writing this book... it's really helped me relate and reach out to many of my friends who have made the tragic choice of abortion and were never the same afterwards.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Nelson, 25
Liberty, 5

Witness to the Truth
I read this book shortly after my Rachel's Vineyard retreat, which was in May 2004 (25 years after my abortion). Reading this book has definelty played a part in my abortion healing process.Each story of pain and grief has validated my own. I would recommend it to anyone who has had an abortion, or who knows someone who has had one...A mother's love DOES begin at conception. ... Read more

Product Description
Images of sobbing teens being lead away from shootings are burned in our memories. The 19 chapters in this book address the impact of loss on our children, and the nation¨Vs consciousness. Articles by the nation¨Vs leading thanatologists and grief counselors on grief and bereavement in children and adolescents are interspersed with articles by children who have experienced tragic loss. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Grief Review
I have not read this book all the way, but what I read has been very interesting and informative.I am getting ready to graduate this Spring and my major is Human Services, so I am trying to get information about all different types of situations.This book should help!

Living With Grief: Children, Adolescents
I am taking a course in the topic of Thanatology. Ken Doka,the editor, is well known in the field as are the authors of the articles in this book. It is a collection of writings that explore studies in the field of children and death as well as programs for high school students, teachers and counselors. I found it very helpful and easy to read.

An outstanding contribution to the field of grief counseling
Living With Grief: Children, Adolescents, And Loss draws upon a wide range of contributors to address the entire spectrum of issues relevant to the grieving process of bereaved children confronted with the loss of a lovedone. Produced as a companion publication to the Hospice Foundation ofAmerica's seventh annual National Bereavement Teleconference, Living WithGrief is a seminal, benchmark, highly recommended publication that willprove invaluable for students and practitioners of psychology andcounseling, as well as health care personnel, school staff,and socialworkers charged with a responsibility for helping young people deal withcatastrophic loss and the revelation of personal mortality. ... Read more

Product Description
Written by a bereaved mother, The Good Grief Club is the true story of seven women who discover that their new friendships have the power to heal the pain of losing their babies in miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant death. One by one, fate weaves their lives together in the wake of tragedy misunderstood by those around them. Set around support group meetings and restaurant rendezvous, these seven soul sisters find a new normal.Through tears and anger, compassion and laughter, late nights and French toast, the sun slowly emerges from the darkness bringing with it love, hope, and healing as, together, they rebuild their lives. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Wonderful Book
On January 17, 2009, I, too, heard the words, 'Your baby has no heartbeat'.I never thought the pain and anguish I felt could truly be put into words so that anyone would ever understand.But Monica has done just that.This book is very well written and, as someone who attends a SHARE group, it has been like having your 'group meeting' between actual meetings. Thank you for sharing your story, and the stories of your friends, with me and all those that read your book!

HOTMOMMA
This book is a good one.This book reminds me of the grief group that I go to (Sharing Parents of Sacramento) and the women that I have met there. These stories and book's about women who have lost a baby...conception through birth are always hard to read, but they are beneficial to those of us who are griefing the death of our babies. I heard those dreaded words on Feb. 23, 2009...."I'm so sorry, but we can't find a heartbeat!!" I lost my daughter that day, Makena Marie Elizabeth Anderson, and it's a day to day challenge. My heart goes out to all of you that need this book, we will never forget our babies.

Beautiful and Healing
Well written, respectful and healing if you've experienced or are close to someone who has experienced the loss of a baby. Very real, easy to relate to and the humor is much appreciated! Be prepared for tears and keep the tissue handy. Overall such a beautiful story - after losing my baby 3 months ago I searched for help from those who really understand. I am very thankful for this book at this time in my life - one of a kind. Thank you Monica!

A wonderfully written book on a tough subject
How I wish a book like this had been available a few years ago!When I went through my devastating loss at 25 weeks gestation, the only books available were dry, impersonal books that attempted to explain the grief process and how to get through it. It was hard to get through more than one of those. This book lets you live it through real families and their experiences. It reads like a novel, but it is all true.Even if you have never personally had losses like these, you might someday know someone who will, and this will help you understand what to say - and most importantly, what NOT to say.

Absolutely amazing!!
I could not put this book down.I felt like the author was reading my mind.The pain and devastation of losing a baby is indescribable, yet the author described it perfectly.She gave a heartbreaking, honest description of the range of emotions that bereaved parents go through-from the lowest point to having hope for the future.I cried and even laughed out loud in several parts because the situations described were so similar to my own.I especially loved the way she conveyed what she was thinking in different situations.This book is amazing!!!At the end, the reader is left with a sense of hope.I enjoyed reading this book so much, that I donated my copy to my Share group so that others can benefit from it! ... Read more

Product Description
Clergy are in a natural position to help people who experience a variety of losses, including death, divorce, moves, and develop-mental transitions. Historically, clergy have been involved as supporters of the bereaved, yet many clergy say that their educa-tion lacked substantive teachings in this area of caring. This book is a response to this apparent need. While directed at clergy, anyone involved in this area of caregiving will find the contents of value. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Valuable Resource
Everyone fears not having the right words to say. Wolfelt gives the reader the permission to not have the right words to say when helping a grieving person. His advice is "mouths closed; ears open; presence available." Marvelous advice! ... Read more

Product Description
The author's training sessions and clinical interventions are based on the premise that bringing out the creative potential inherent in each of us is just as relevant-perhaps more so-as psychiatric theory and treatment models since grief and loss are an integral part of life. Thus, this work was compiled to illuminate the many facets that link grief, counseling, and creativity. The multiple strategies suggested in these essays will help practitioners enlarge their repertoire of hands-on skills and foster introspection and empathy in reader. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Book on Grief
It is informative although I would have liked more actual clinical interventions for Mental Health Counselors.

My poetic throughts on the loss of my mother
MOTHER DEAR

(Oh mother dear, I miss you like never before)

Where are your warm hugs?
Have they cracked and wilted in your empty arms

Where are your sweet smiles?
Have they dried and shriveled on your cold lips

Where are your funny jokes?
Have they turned to dust and lay at your feet
To whom will comfort me?
To whom will dry my tears?
To whom will I lay my head,
When no one else is near?

(Oh mother dear, I need you more than ever)

Where have you been?
Have you finally been laid to rest

Where are you now?
Are you flying high with the angels?
OR
Are you down in the deep dark well?

Call Me Sonya Grey: A Young Girl's Poems about Death, Life and Adolescence

This book reviews the role of expressive arts in grief work
"Grief and the Healing Arts: Creativity as Therapy" is one of the most significant books I have ever read as a creative arts therapist. Professionals who use the arts in their grief work with clients, andindividuals who have used the arts to come to terms with their own griefare represented. Poignant photagraphs underscore the articles. The editor,Sandra Bertman, PhD,is an expert in thanatology. She is Professor ofHumanities in Medicine at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center.Bertman brings both a strong theoretical base and a respect for theanecdotal to her choices of articles for this book.I strongly recommendit! ... Read more

Product Description
Thte simple, gentle guidance found in A Journey throughGrief helps readers through the heartache of grief by showing themwhat to expect and how to deal with it ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Best Book on Dealing with Grief
I searched wide and far for a book to bring me some relief and understanding when my father died last year.I found this little book on a bookstore shelf, and it changed my life.I now send it out with all sympathy cards.I found it to be extremely profound and gentle.It explained my grief - physical symptoms and emotional upheaval.It's easy to read, not extremely religious, and very healing.

51 Pages Says It All!
As much as I can't stand to cry, I have learned it is as important a release as is laughter. Unfortunately and especially for the male sex, we are, still to this day, taught that this act of crying is unbecoming to children, adolescents, and adults who "have their act together." And this misnomer taught by the very folks who do not have their act together.

As a reader you would never know that this book is written by a Doctor. All that is needed is to know that this person speaks of what they themselves have been through. That is what makes the book valuable. The publishing industry is grossly mistaken by the belief that credibility goes hand in hand with a scholarly degree. It does not. Experience is the only true credibility. This author has real experience. The only way to know this is to be in the process of grieving and read this book, which proves to us through its compassion and understanding, that this is the way it is done.

I am disappointed by the plethora of published authors who think that we, the reading public, need to be exposed to endless pages of type in order to get something out of the work we are reading. For me, the opposite is true. There are many books I do not purchase because all too often I find the author has severe difficulty getting to the point of the matter. You will find this book to be a refreshing change.

If you have ever felt sad and more importantly if you have ever been depressed, my advise is to get your hands on this book. It will not take too much of your time and I believe you will benefit tremendously. This book is most valuable to those of us who have suffered from bouts of depression, as we all do in varying degrees from time to time. This book will help you to move through the emotion of grief so that your life is not a repeated adventure in something you are unable to overcome. I cannot recommend this book enough.

A wonderful book to share with anyone who has had a loss.
I found this book quite by accident, but the timing could not have beenbetter. After reading this book I felt as though I'd received a much neededhug . It is short, to the point, very gentle, and beautifully written. Theauthor is a true poet. I have given several copies to friends andrelatives. I could not give a higher recommendation.

The most helpful book I found for grief
This book was the most helpful I found when dealing with deep grief.It's short, to the point, and hits the key heart strings with great simplicity and clarity.The idea that tears are what you do when you can't doanything else was such a relief to me--knowing I could cry for as long as Ineeded and it would pass. And the idea to be gentle with myself allowed meto go through all the stages of grief undisturbed. I recommend this toevery person who goes through a significant death such as a parent. ... Read more

Product Description
This thoroughly revised and updated edition of Gift of Tears includes new research and examples of recent events to help illustrate the effects of loss. Containing a strong practical element, the book guides the reader through the process of contemplating and eventually confronting their own relationship to loss.

Written by experienced counsellors and psychotherapists, the book contains candid and readable discussions of central issues, including:

* how to understand and work with anger and guilt
* attachment patterns and loss
* historical changes in attitudes to death and bereavement
* death as a particular form of loss.

Gift of Tears is intended for anyone who finds they have to cope, in the course of their daily lives, with the grief of others. It will prove invaluable to counsellors, therapists, mental health professionals and all those helping the bereaved.

www.bereavementarena.com ... Read more