Ember Counseling
Grief is not a straight line.
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Grief is a natural response to loss. While we often associate it with a death, grief can also arise from many other life changes—like infertility, the loss of health, identity, relationships, or a sense of safety. It’s not only an emotional experience; grief can affect our bodies, minds, and relationships in profound ways.
There’s no “right” way to grieve. Sometimes people feel sadness, guilt or anger, at other times they may feel numb or disconnected. Grief may come in waves, show up unexpectedly, or linger quietly over time. People may experience physical symptoms, sleeplessness, and confusion. Laughter and joy may still bubble up when grieving. All of these responses, and more, are normal.
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One of the biggest myths about grieving is that it follows a clear, linear path. In reality, it’s often messy, unpredictable, and deeply personal. Healing doesn't mean forgetting—it means learning how to carry the loss with you.
You don’t have to navigate grief alone. Therapy can provide a supportive space to process what you’re feeling, make sense of your experience, and find your footing again—on your own terms, and in your own time.
Image Credit: Jessica Fishman
About
Jessica Fishman, MSW, LCSW (she/her)
Grief & Family Therapist | Clinical Supervisor
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I’m a grief and family therapist with over 20 years of experience supporting children, adults, and families as they navigate the often overwhelming terrain of loss, death, and medical trauma. I’ve spent much of that time walking alongside families facing serious or terminal illness, suicide, or other sudden and traumatic events. My work is trauma-informed and relational; grounded in deep empathy, clinical skill, humor, and a belief that an important part of healing can happen in connection. I work with adults, children and teens, and families in individual and group settings. Whether your loss is recent or years old, we’ll work together to process your grief, reconnect with your resilience and sense of self, and build new meaning without minimizing your pain.
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In addition to my therapy work, I’m also a clinical supervisor. Supporting other clinicians is one of the most meaningful parts of what I do. I offer a reflective, collaborative space where therapists can deepen their practice, stay grounded in their values, and care for themselves while doing this profound work.
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When away from work, I find my joy hiking in the woods, swimming or sitting by any body of water, through adventures with my child and friends, and soaking in as much live music as possible.
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At the heart of my practice is a simple truth: grief is not something to fix. It’s something to witness, to hold, and to integrate—at your own pace, in your own way. It's my privilege to walk with you, as you find your way forward.
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