On today's episode, I'm joined by Lara Krawchuk, a grief expert and IFS certifed therapist, to explore how the Internal Family Systems model helps us understand and tend to grief. We discuss continuing bonds, meaning making, ambiguous loss, grief-worthy losses, and unbraiding current loss from exiled trauma. While I have parts that avoid thinking about and discussing grief, Lara offers such a hopeful perspective on the grieving process and I'm so excited to share this episode with you.

Key Takeaways:

Grief is not about severing bonds, but shifting how we relate to them.
Disenfranchised grief, like the end of a relationship or loss of health, is grief-worthy too.
Grief invites us to explore the deeper meaning behind our losses and what they reveal about ourselves.
Grief is both/and -- we are allowed to feel both grief and joy.
Welcoming grief, rather than trying to "move on," is crucial for healing.
Turn towards grieving parts and allow them the space to be heard and honored.
The importance of "unbraiding" exiled pain from present losses: "Does the part know this is different from the original Exile is has always protected?"
Continued bonds with those we've lost can be a profound source of comfort.

Favorite Quote: "Self is not freaked out by grief. Self is an exquisite witness to all pain." — Lara Krawchuk

About Lara: Lara Krawchuk is the owner and clinical director of Healing Concepts in West Chester, Pennsylvania, and the co-founder of Healing Perspectives, a continuing education resource for helping professionals looking to heal themselves, help their clients, and heal a broken-hearted world. She is an IFS certified therapist and consultant, a speaker, adjuct professor, and author with a passion for supporting those living with grief.

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Jeff Schrum co-produces The One Inside Podcast. He is a writer, counselor, and IFS Level 1 practitioner.

Are you new to IFS or want a simple way to get to know yourself? Tammy's book, "The One Inside: Thirty Days to your Authentic Self" is a PERFECT place to start.

Tammy is grateful for Jack Reardon who created music for the podcast. Jack is a graduate of Derek Scott’s IFS Stepping Stones Program.

If you are interested in sponsoring an episode or two of The One Inside Podcast please contact Tammy at tammysollenberger@comcast.net

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