In Part 2 of this powerful two-part conversation, registered psychologist and grief coach, Ashley Mielke, shares what she’s learned after years of sitting with people in their darkest moments. Building on her personal story in Episode 28, Ashley offers compassionate and clear insights into how we can better understand, support, and walk with those who are grieving.

We explore toxic positivity, the myth of the ‘five stages of grief’, and why so many people feel unseen in their suffering. Ashley helps reframe grief not as something to fix—but something to honour, validate, and slowly work through.

This episode is for anyone wondering how to care well for the grieving—or how to walk through their own loss with gentleness and grace.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

1. Why ‘toxic positivity’ often causes more harm than good
2. Why the ‘five stages of grief’ don’t tell the full story
3. What to say (and what not to say) when someone you love is grieving
4. Why presence and permission are more powerful than advice
5. How grief can become stuck in the body if it isn’t acknowledged
6. How Ashley found a calling through her own deep loss
7. Practical ways to walk with others in their pain—without rushing them

Relevant Links from the Episode:
Ashley Mielke is a Registered Psychologist, grief coach, and founder of Ashley Mielke Coaching. She uses her lived experience and professional training to support others through deep personal loss and emotional healing.

Follow Ashley on Instagram: @ashleymielkecoaching

Websites:AshleyMielkeCoaching.com

HealMyHeart.ca

Grief Recovery Method

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