Serious & Terminal Illness

Navigating a Serious Diagnosis

When you or someone you love receives a serious or terminal diagnosis, the ground shifts beneath you. The emotions that follow are layered and complex: fear, sadness, anger, confusion, and a profound sense of uncertainty about what lies ahead. I work with individuals and families who are facing these realities, providing a steady, grounded presence during a time when everything feels unsteady.

Anticipatory grief is one of the most misunderstood aspects of serious illness. This is the grief that begins long before a loss occurs, the mourning of a future that has been altered, the slow letting go of plans and possibilities you once held. Many people feel guilty for grieving someone who is still alive, yet this experience is both real and valid. In our work together, I help you navigate and make sense of these emotions.

Families challenged with the serious illness of one member often experience a particular kind of isolation. Friends and extended family may not know what to say, leaving you feeling alone in your experience. Children and adolescents in the family may struggle silently, unsure of how to process what is happening. I bring a family systems perspective to this work, helping every member of the family find their voice and feel supported.

Support for Caregivers

Caregiver burnout is real. The toll of being the strong one, of managing medical appointments, coordinating care, and holding space for everyone else's emotions, can leave you depleted and disconnected from your own needs. I provide a space where you can set down that weight, even briefly, and attend to your own feelings.

Whether you are caring for a parent, a partner, or a child, I help you develop practical coping strategies that honor both your commitment to your loved one and your own wellbeing. This includes navigating end-of-life decisions, finding meaning in the time you have together, and preparing for the transitions ahead.

What to Expect

We begin with an initial consultation where I learn about your situation and what you are hoping to gain from therapy. Together, we set collaborative goals and establish a session cadence that works for you, recognizing that the unpredictability of illness sometimes requires flexibility in scheduling and focus.

For Healthcare Providers

If you are an oncologist, palliative care specialist, hospital social worker, or other healthcare provider, I welcome referrals for patients and families who could benefit from therapeutic support during serious illness. My approach complements medical care by addressing the emotional and relational dimensions of the illness experience. I provide individual therapy, family therapy, and caregiver support, and I am flexible with scheduling to accommodate the demands of treatment. To refer a patient or family, please contact me directly or share the consultation link below.

You May Also Be Interested In

• Trauma & PTSD therapy for processing the emotional impact of illness and loss
• Couples & family therapy to support your family through this chapter
• Get in touch to schedule a free consultation

Learn more about Julia's approach to compassionate, strengths-based therapy.

For information about fees and insurance, visit our FAQ & Private Pay page.