The Weekend University

Integrating Grief: A Holistic Approach — Dr. Joanne Cacciatore

Jul 31, 2025
Dr. Joanne Cacciatore, a bereaved mother and founder of the MISS Foundation, dives deep into the holistic approach to grief. She discusses how grief and love are interconnected and critiques society's obsession with constant happiness. Cacciatore shares insights on helping those in mourning and the significance of rituals in the grieving process. She emphasizes the unique healing power of animals and the importance of confronting grief to foster resilience and transformation. Listeners learn about the value of compassion and personalizing the journey of grief.
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ANECDOTE

Joanne's Grief Journey

  • Joanne Cacciatore entered grief work after her fourth child died unexpectedly in 1994.
  • She founded the MISS Foundation to support families dealing with traumatic child loss worldwide.
INSIGHT

The Harm of the Happiness Cult

  • The cultural "happiness cult" pressures people to avoid expressing grief or pain.
  • Suppressing grief harms physical health and increases loneliness, worsening suffering.
ANECDOTE

Therapist’s Apology After Loss

  • A therapist initially dismissive of Joanne later called to apologize after losing his own baby.
  • This painful encounter highlighted the need for empathy and proper training with grief.
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