The Holidays, Grief, and Loss

Counseling Toolkit for December 2023

Tina Choi, LCSW
Counselor and Clinical Supervisor

We like to think of the holidays as a time of celebrating with family and friends. We remember Christ’s coming to live among us as a small child, reminding us of of his sacrificial love for us to walk among us a man. The holidays may also be a time that we become acutely aware of loved ones who are no longer with us and difficult memories that happened at this time of year. 

As caregivers, many of the people we serve may be hurting. With the heightened expectations of the holidays, people can feel more pressure to have a perfect experience, which can set them up for greater disappointment. In this toolkit, we will help you be more intentional about responding to the spiritual, relational, emotional, and physical needs of those you serve, especially those who are mourning a loss.