Pet Loss Support
in Oakland

Helping Grieving Pet Owners Find Understanding, Strength and Peace

Animals have a special bond with us, and one that is unique to each individual.  It can be extremely painful and isolating to have to lose a pet especially when others don't understand the depth of your grief.

Disbelief, anger and guilt are all part of the pain you might feel.  An important part of the healing process is sharing your story and giving it the attention it needs.  Often, it is hard to find others who care enough to listen. But I am here for you, and I offer my presence and a safe space for you to go through that process.

Here Are Some Specific Challenges I Can Help You With

As you grieve for your lost companion, you may be feeling:

• Isolated and alone
• Empty inside
• Guilty about the impossible decisions you were forced to make
• Stuck and confused about how you will move forward
• Disillusioned about ever finding the same kind of love again

If you are overwhelmed by feelings like these, therapy can help.

As Your Therapist, I Can Help You Find Your Footing

I'm Sylvia and, as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I can help you come to terms with your loss.

After completing my graduate studies, I did a year-long bereavement counseling internship with Hospice by the Bay and I currently lead a pet loss support group at Berkeley Humane.  These experiences, along with the death of my mother in 2012 from cancer, have shown me both the deep pain of grief and the path through it.  An important part of this path  is finding support from others who understand.

As a therapist specializing in pet loss, I can help you to:

• Release anger or guilt you may be holding on to
• Honor your beloved pet’s life
• Find a “new normal”
• Decide if and when to get another pet

It’s not easy coming to terms with your loss but the good news is that it's possible to feel better.  And I have the experience to help you.

Take the Next Step and Schedule Your First Session

If you are grieving and would like a safe and empathic person to provide support during this painful time, please contact me at (415) 341-4905 or [email protected] to schedule your first therapy session.