You’re already dealing with the emotional weight of loss—but what happens when legal battles, financial surprises, and unexpected triggers make it even harder to move forward?

In today's episode, I'm joined by Ellen Craine, a licensed clinical social worker, grief specialist, and the founder of Craine Counseling. With decades of experience, she helps individuals navigate grief, loss, and major life transitions through a holistic and compassionate approach. Ellen combines professional expertise with personal experience, having faced the loss of her husband, supported her son through pediatric cancer, and battled breast cancer herself. She is passionate about challenging societal misconceptions about grief and guiding people through their unique journeys of healing. Ellen also leads grief support groups, including her Compassionate Grief Circles, creating safe spaces for individuals to share and grow.

Throughout this episode, Ellen Craine provides a deep and personal perspective on grief, drawing from both her professional expertise and personal experiences. She introduces the concept of being a "grief doula," helping individuals navigate loss beyond just bereavement. Ellen discusses societal misconceptions about grief and the pressure to “move on” quickly, stressing that grief is an evolving, lifelong process. She shares stories about losing her husband, supporting her son through cancer, and dealing with her own breast cancer diagnosis, highlighting the emotional and logistical struggles that come with these experiences. Ellen also speaks about the importance of planning for the unexpected, such as estate documents and medical directives, and the healing power of community support. She encourages finding personal tools—such as nature, creative outlets, and connection—to balance grief with moments of joy.

Tune in to episode 316 as Ellen Craine shares how embracing both the emotional and practical aspects of grief—through self-discovery, community support, and preparedness—can help navigate loss, build resilience, and find moments of joy along the way.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

What is a grief doula? (0:54)

Why does society struggle with grief? (3:18)

The often overlooked practical aspects of grief (5:08)

Personal story: Losing a husband and navigating legal complexities (10:30)

Grief’s lingering triggers—from mails to memories (11:46)

Lessons from hospice work: When the dying hold on (14:18)

Grief beyond death: Illness, parenting, and self-care (20:18)

Finding support and tools for healing (24:43)

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The Grief and Happiness Alliance

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