Grief wears many faces. It can look like a death, a divorce, a friendship that faded, or the slow realization that a dream did not work out. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Audrey Davidheiser, a licensed psychologist and Certified Internal Family Systems therapist, to talk about grief in a way that feels human, faith-aware, and actually doable.

We start by getting practical about Internal Family Systems (IFS). Think of it as understanding the different parts within us that show up when life hurts. Instead of trying to "get over it," Dr. Audrey shows us how to listen to what those parts are trying to say, and how that posture can reduce shame, soften anxiety, and help our bodies settle. We also talk about how faith and mental health can complement each other, especially when prayer and grounded tools work side by side.

From there, we look at what to do when grief shows up in the body or in our dreams, why timelines can backfire, and how to move gently but faithfully through loss. If loneliness has been knocking, we cover ways to befriend it without getting swallowed by it. And if you are wondering when it is time to get extra support, Dr. Audrey offers clear, compassionate markers that remove the stigma and invite wise care.

This one is for anyone carrying a fresh heartbreak or an old ache that still stings. You will leave with language for what you are feeling, simple practices to try this week, and hope that healing can be real and steady.

What you will learn

• A simple way to understand IFS and why it helps in grief

• How to respond when your body signals distress

• Why timelines for healing often miss the point

• Gentle steps for addressing loneliness without shame

• Clear signs it may be time to seek professional help

Resources

• Book: Grieving Wholeheartedly by Dr. Audrey Davidheiser

• Dr. Audrey's website — https://www.aimforbreakthrough.com/

Share the episode

If this conversation helped you breathe a little easier, send it to a friend who needs the same. And if you want more faith and neuroscience tools for real-life resilience, subscribe and leave a quick review. It helps more people find hope here.