Grief is tough, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Please join our discussion with Carla McDowell, a retired psychotherapist with 25+ years of experience, and discover how grief can lead to growth and resilience.

Known for her warmth, humour, and humanity, Carla makes the journey of healing transformative, helping people navigate loss with compassion and insight. Whether grieving or supporting others, her unique approach empowers you to face grief and emerge stronger. 

Grief is often seen as a heavy and difficult emotion. The phrase "Good Grief!" is curious, especially considering how grief is generally perceived. It seems contradictory at first, as grief is typically associated with pain, loss, and hardship. However, in the case of the "Peanuts" character Charlie Brown, the phrase takes on a more light-hearted tone, reflecting frustration, surprise, or exasperation rather than actual sorrow.

In a broader sense, though, the idea of "good" grief might suggest that grief, while painful, is a natural and necessary part of life. It's a way of processing loss and moving forward. While it may not feel good in the moment, grief can lead to healing, growth, and deeper understanding of ourselves and our emotions. It forces us to confront what we've lost and come to terms with it, which is ultimately part of living a full, meaningful life.

Grief, though scary, can also be transformative—allowing people to emerge from it with greater resilience and insight. So while it is never easy, as you said, it is a part of the journey toward healing.

About our speaker

“Carla’s warmth, humour and humanity took the sting out of grief.”  Andrew

Carla McDowell is a retired psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience, specialising in grief therapy and trauma. Her professional journey is deeply rooted in personal experience, as she became well-acquainted with grief from an early age. This profound connection to loss throughout her life has shaped her empathetic and compassionate approach, enabling her to connect with clients on a deeply personal level.

Carla's extensive experience as a speaker on the topic of “Grief" has been instrumental in offering support and understanding to both the bereaved and professionals across a variety of sectors. Her expertise has been sought by diverse groups, including the PSNI, Queen's University medical students, the Probation Board, student teachers, and Cruse Bereavement Care. By sharing her knowledge, Carla has significantly contributed to helping many individuals navigate their grief while equipping professionals with the skills to offer compassionate and informed support during such challenging times.

Driven by both personal experience and professional expertise, Carla continues to be a passionate advocate for mental health and the importance of grief support.