JOY CLOKE

By drawing from a wide range of psychological theories I engage with clients in non-judgemental, empathic and thought-provoking therapy by deconstructing the biopsychosocial impact of the loss on your life. My work includes a grief assessment which will help me determine whether you are at risk for mental and physical complications. I know that giving way to grief is often stigmatized as morbid, unhealthy and demoralizing therefore the bereaved often feel alone while confronting and restructering the changed world within which they must now live. I encourage trust, understanding and identification with my clients as I strongly believe that the relationship between the client and the counsellor is important and curative in itself.

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Goals we set together as client - counsellor might include:

Helping you identify and express your feelings (unresolved pain, anger and guilt).

Helping you to discern meaning from the death of your loved one,

assisting you to emotionally relocate your loved one - while still continuing constructive bonds with the deceased.

I will provide time for you to grieve - by giving you 'permission' to grieve while describing the wide range of grief behaviour.

Help you to accept the individuality of grieving - it is unique, complex and personal.

Exam together your coping styles and defense mechanisms.

Assist you with finding new meaning and purpose in your life - core conditions for  personal growth and discovery.

Uncover hidden assumptions and limited beliefs.