LifeLong Learning - San Marcos
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Course Description

Grief touches every part of our lives, not only when we lose someone we love. People grieve the end of relationships, the loss of cherished pets, changes in identity, career transitions, moves away from familiar places, and even the quiet absence of opportunities that never came to be. This course invites participants to explore the full meaning of grief and to consider gentle ways of acknowledging and working with its presence in daily life. During the course, local and national resources will be provided, including therapists, community groups, GriefShare programs, and emergency support options.

Dec. 7: Understanding Grief Beyond Loss
In this session, participants will consider how grief shows up in daily life, how it affects the body and mind, and why naming it can be the first step toward healing. Together, we will discuss the difference between acute grief and the ongoing waves that follow, the role of memory and meaning making, and simple practices that can help people begin working through loss. This class offers a compassionate space to understand grief in all its forms and to recognize that no one moves through it alone.

December 14: Navigating Grief During the Holidays
The holiday season can intensify grief whether the loss comes from death, estrangement, family conflict, job changes, or shifting traditions. Building on the first class, this session focuses on practical, supportive ways to navigate grief during emotionally charged times. Participants will explore how to schedule intentional moments for grieving, how to communicate with others who are also impacted, and how to recognize when additional support may be needed. We will discuss strategies for managing expectations, creating new rituals, and finding connection even when the season feels heavy. This session offers gentle guidance for moving through the holidays with clarity, compassion, and shared understanding.

Instructors: Emily Daniel, LMFT, LPC and Kevin Daniel, LMFT‑Associate, LPC‑Associate
Emily and Kevin Daniel own Tree of Life Behavioral Health & Wellness, a therapeutic practice in San Marcos offering couples counseling, family therapy, children and teen assessments and counseling, and play therapy. They are committed to creating emotionally safe, developmentally informed spaces for individuals and families in the community.  Kevin is also a member of LifeLong Learning’s Advisory Council.