Grief, Loss & Disenfranchised Mourning Support

What it is. Grief isn't only about death. Adults from narcissistic families often mourn the loving parents they never had--an invisible, disenfranchised grief that receives little social recognition. Traditional loss can also trigger shock, anger, bargaining, sadness, and eventual acceptance.

What the research says. Modern models emphasize oscillation between loss-oriented and restoration-oriented coping. Rituals, letter-writing, and meaning-making meditations help the brain integrate attachment ruptures. In dysfunctional systems, pre-emptive grief ---accepting a parent's emotional limitations while they're still alive--creates healthier boundaries.

How I help. We use narrative therapy to honor the lost relationship, guided imagery to say unspoken good-byes, and parts work to comfort the child self that still seeks idealized love. When grief involves estrangement, I teach radical acceptance and limited- or no-contact protocols to protect your mental health.