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My name is Mary Ransom and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with many years of experience. I specialize in grief work. This includes past, present, and unexpected losses. The loss is usually the death of a loved one, but can also be that of a pet or friendship, or job.
My approach
I use Person-Centered and Cognitive-Behavioral approaches to therapy. That means that I listen carefully and without judgment. I also give practical tools to help you move along (not move on) while you are going through this painful journey. Compassionate is a word that others use to describe me.
My focus
My clients are those with current or unresolved bereavement issues which can impact their quality of life. Grief can cause depression, anxiety, and interpersonal relationship problems, as well as feelings of emptiness and loneliness. I am comfortable working with survivors of suicide, or unexpected/sudden deaths which add complexity to the grief process.
My communication style
I create a soft, warm, non-judgmental but honest environment for my clients. When one is going through deep grief, the world appears loud and sharp. I understand. One might think our sessions are depressing. On the contrary, I would describe our sessions as hopeful and often uplifting as we find a path through the pain together.
My journey to mental healthcare
An unexpected divorce and the loss of my parents shattered what had been an idyllic life. My ex-husband ironically suggested that I would make a good therapist! I went back to school to get my Masters in Counseling. Then I worked at County Mental Health for many years followed by a specialization in grief counseling at a hospice organization.
My goals for you
Healing takes time but I can give guidelines and tools to move along in a healthy direction. The goal is to be kind to yourself but not over-indulge in unhealthy behaviors that you think are helping.
My first session with you
The first session allows us time to begin to know each other and to allow my client to vent or cry or just feel feelings of grief. I can tell you what is normal during the grief journey and how others might have unrealistic expectations of you.
