Embracing Today: Navigating Anticipatory Grief

A 10- week online group program to help people experiencing anticipatory grief live life fully as they move forward in a meaningful way

MARIDA ETHERINGTON MScN

Certified Grief Educator, Meditation & Mindfulness Teacher

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GET SUPPORT WITH YOUR ANTICIPATORY GRIEF...

Anticipatory Grief: A unique emotional response to an expected loss. Anticipatory grief can happen with an upcoming expected loss of: loved ones, relationships and marriages, jobs and careers, infertility, life transitions such as empty nest syndrome, and more.

Embracing Today: Navigating Anticipatory Grief is a 12-week online group coaching program that will provide a comprehensive understanding of anticipatory grief. Participants will explore the different feelings and thoughts that may arise during anticipatory grief and learn strategies and practices that may help as one navigates this grief process.

EMBRACING TODAY IS FOR YOU IF YOU'RE STRUGGLING WITH...

An upcoming expected loss - loss of loved ones, relationships and marriages, jobs and careers, infertility, life transitions such as empty nest syndrome, and more.
Anxiety & Fear – Worrying about the future, the loss itself, or how life will change.
Emotional Overwhelm – Shifting between hope, sadness, guilt, and even moments of relief.
Exhaustion & Burnout – Mental, emotional, and physical fatigue from ongoing stress and caregiving.
Guilt & Regret – Wishing you had done more or that the situation could be different.
Loneliness & Isolation – Feeling disconnected from others who may not understand your grief.

AND IF YOU'RE DESIRING...

Support – A safe space to express your fears, sadness, and mixed emotions.
Coping Strategies & Practices – Tools to manage stress, anxiety, and emotional ups and downs of the anticipatory grief process.
Opportunities for Meaningful Connection – Encouragement to create memories, have important conversations, and find closure.
Validation & Understanding – Affirmation that your feelings (including relief, guilt, or anger) are part of the anticipatory grief process.
Preparation for what may come – Resources and discussions on adjusting to grief and future changes.

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HI I'M MARIDA

FOUNDER OF THE GRIEF INSTITUTE

Certified Grief Educator, Meditation & Mindfulness Teacher

I have worked with clients experiencing grief for many years. But when my father developed rapidly progressing dementia, followed by a diagnosis of incurable cancer, I found myself feeling isolated and alone. I realized I was grieving even though he was still with us—this was anticipatory grief.

Well-meaning people told me, “Don’t give up hope” or “Why are you being so negative?” But I hadn’t lost hope, nor was I being negative. I was simply sad, confused, and in shock. Nothing could change the reality that my father—who had recently been the picture of health—was not going to survive.

I searched for resources and support but struggled to find what I needed. So, I started writing—putting my thoughts and feelings into words as I faced this profound loss. That’s how The Grief Institute, my first grief workbook and this program was created.

Writing became a cathartic outlet. I discovered practices and skills that were helpful for anticipatory grief and worked on the workbook while sitting by my father’s bedside as he slept. Those final months and days were bittersweet. His presence guided me as I put words to paper, and now, I have the privilege of sharing this with others. I allowed myself to grieve in my own way, without judgment—writing was my coping strategy.

Through this journey, I deepened my understanding of grief, continued to take courses on grief, further solidifying my commitment to supporting others through loss. My passion for this work comes from wanting to ensure others don’t feel alone in their grief. It is also my way of honoring my dad and keeping his memory alive.

The strategies I share are designed to bring awareness, insight, and moments of peace in the midst of uncertainty.

Grief is deeply personal. No one can take it away or fully understand what you’re going through, even if they’ve experienced a similar loss. But you don’t have to grieve alone. This program offers support, guidance, and strategies to help you navigate your grief journey.

You’ll learn about anticipatory grief, discover tools to support your healing, and explore ways to care for yourself as you move through this experience.

Marida Etherington

What the program includes...

10 week

online group

program

with

10 PDF Modules

Weekly Teachings

about

thoughts & feelings

that may come

up on your

grief journey

Weekly

Group Coaching Calls

to explore & discuss

feelings that come

up with

Anticipatory Grief

Coping strategies

that can help with

Anticipatory

Grief

Weekly activities & journaling exercises laid out in an easy-to-follow manner

THE EMBRACING TODAY PROGRAM CURRICULUM

Module ONE: Denial

What denial is and why we often move through it during a grief period
How to know if you’re experiencing denial during your anticipatory grief journey (what it looks like)
Processes and practices to move from denial to a gentle acceptance of reality & why this is important
How to develop greater emotional awareness and expression during your grief journey versus keeping emotions suppressed
Opening tools to creating needed support during your anticipatory grief journey

Module TWO: Resentment

What resentment is and why it often arises during anticipatory grief
How to recognize resentment in yourself and uncover its deeper root causes
Healthy ways to process and release anger rather than suppressing it
How self-compassion and forgiveness can ease the emotional weight of resentment
Practices to shift from resentment toward healing, acceptance, and inner peace

Module THREE: Disappointment & Regret

Why disappointment & regret often surfaces in grief and how unmet expectations contribute to this
How to recognize and release unrealistic expectations around your grief journey
The role of self-compassion in navigating disappointment and regret and embracing your unique process
How to communicate your needs clearly to reduce frustration and strengthen support systems
Practical ways to shift your perspective and focus on what is within your control for greater peace
How to practice self-forgiveness and release self-blame by recognizing that you did the best you could at the time
Meaningful ways to express unspoken feelings through letters, rituals, or symbolic gestures to bring closure

Module FOUR: Loneliness

How grief can create feelings of loneliness, even when surrounded by others, and what to do when it feels isolating
How to express and process feelings of loneliness through journaling, conversation, and self-reflection
Practical steps to rebuild connections and cultivate meaningful relationships after loss
Ways to create rituals that honor your loved one and bring comfort, fostering a sense of continued connection

Module FIVE: Sadness

How to accept sadness as a natural and necessary part of the grieving process, rather than seeing it as something to suppress
Sadness needs to be expressed rather than suppressed! Learn four practices to feel and express sadness in a healthy, safe and supportive way
How to balance grief with self-care, allowing space for both sorrow and moments of relief or joy
The importance of seeking support and connection so you don’t have to carry sadness alone

Module SIX: Anger

Why anger often arises in grief and how to navigate it without feeling overwhelmed
The most effective ways to feel, express and channel anger into constructive outlets for relief and healing (practices & instructions included)
How to identify and shift negative thought patterns that may amplify frustration, anger or self-blame
The role of support in processing anger and how to know when to reach out for guidance

Module SEVEN: Overwhelm

How to recognize the signs of emotional and mental overload so you can take steps toward balance
A simple approach to reduce overwhelm and shift grief into manageable pieces instead of feeling consumed by it all at once
The most effective coping strategies to reduce overwhelm and bring yourself back to the present when grief feels too heavy
Why rest and self-care are essential in the healing process and how to give yourself permission to step back when needed

Module EIGHT: Forgiveness

Why forgiveness is a powerful part of healing and how it can free you from emotional pain without excusing past actions
How to explore and express hurt in a way that fosters deeper understanding and release
The role of self-compassion in forgiveness, especially when struggling with guilt or self-blame
A step-by-step approach to letting go of resentment and moving toward greater peace over time

Module NINE: Moving Forward & Acceptance

What it truly means to move forward in grief—without “getting over” or forgetting what was lost
Why acceptance isn’t about “getting over” grief but about learning to live with loss in a new way
How to re-engage with life in a meaningful way while carrying the memory of your loved one
The power of remembrance rituals and how to honor the past without feeling stuck in it
How to rediscover yourself, rebuild your identity, and find new sources of meaning and purpose
A gentle approach to living with loss while still creating a fulfilling and joyful life
How to navigate grief’s nonlinear nature and allow yourself to feel emotions as they arise
How to release the need for things to be different and find peace in what you can’t control

Module TEN: Imagining the Future

How to begin envisioning a meaningful future while still honoring your loss
The importance of patience and self-compassion in your healing journey—letting go of judgment and unrealistic expectations
Ways to create space for new possibilities, allowing happiness and fulfillment to coexist with grief
How to take small, manageable steps toward healing and new beginnings without feeling overwhelmed
The importance of integrating the memory of your loved one into your future while still embracing growth
How to shift from feeling stuck in grief to opening up to renewed purpose and possibilities
A gentle approach to living with grief, honoring what was lost while rediscovering joy and meaning in life

Included: Guided MP3 Meditations, PDF handouts and video recordings with each module

Registration

Registration for all September online programs will be opening mid-September. Sign up to the mailing list below to get notified when registration opens.

Program FAQ's

Q: Who is this program suitable for?

A: Anyone who is grieving an anticipated loss (e.g. a parent with dementia, a change in your personal health, a relationship ending, a loved one who has a progressive illness)

Q: Is there a cost to join the group?
A: The 10 week program is $197 and hosted on a secure online platform.

Q: Do I need to commit to attending every session?
A: No, attendance is flexible. If you are unable to attend the weekly Live call, there will be video recordings available each week.

Q: Will my information remain confidential?
A: Yes, confidentiality is a key part of our group. We ask all members to respect privacy and not share anything discussed outside the group.

Q: What happens during a typical session?
A: Sessions usually begin with a brief check-in, followed by a guided discussion or topic, and end with a closing reflection. Sharing is encouraged but never required.

Q: Do I have to talk or share my story?
A: No, sharing is optional. You can listen and participate at your own comfort level.

Q: What types of topics are discussed?
A: Topics may include coping strategies, navigating grief milestones, dealing with emotions, and finding meaning after loss.

Q: Who facilitates the group?
A: The group is led by Marida Etherington (certified grief educator, meditation teacher and a nurse with over 30 years of experience).

Q: Can I participate if I’m not comfortable on video?
A: Yes, you can join with your camera off or participate through chat if you prefer.

Q: How long does each session last?
A: Sessions typically last 60 minutes.

Q: Will there be resources or support available outside the sessions?
A: Yes, we provide PDF handouts, video and audio recordings.

THE GRIEF INSTITUTE

The Grief Institute is dedicated to supporting those navigating both anticipatory grief—the emotions that arise before an expected loss—and the grief that follows, offering a compassionate space for healing, understanding, and growth. We know that grief can occur from the loss of loved ones, however grief can also arise from many types of significant loss. This can include relationship endings, divorce, job loss, life transitions, grieving past versions of yourself, empty nest syndrome, and more. At the Grief Institute, we support you in working through grief for any type of loss you may be facing. Founded with a deep passion for helping those who are grieving, The Grief Institute recognizes that grief can often feel isolating and misunderstood. In a society that struggles to talk about loss, we aim to change the conversation—normalizing grief as a natural response. Through our workbooks, classes, and online programs, we offer tools and guidance to help individuals navigate their emotions with greater acceptance, easing feelings of overwhelm and loneliness as well as a community to connect with who are on a similar journey. At The Grief Institute, we believe that grief, when acknowledged and embraced, can be a transformative part of life’s journey.

About Your Guide

Marida Etherington MScN

FOUNDER OF THE GRIEF INSTITUTE,

Certified Grief Educator, Meditation & Mindfulness Teacher

I guide individuals through the complexities of loss with insight and kindness. With an understanding of grief’s many forms, I offer gentle support, education, and tools to help people navigate their unique journeys. I strive to provide a a safe space for healing, honoring each person’s experience with warmth and care.

Certifications & Trainings:

Grief Educator Certificate Program with David Kessler
Complicated Grief Treatment Certificate: A Case-Based Approach at the Center for Complicated Grief
Mindfulness & Meditation Certification YOGARENEW
Megan Devine’s Grief Care Professional Certificate Program
Advanced Grief Counseling Certification Course: Interventions to Move Clients Toward Healthy Grieving, Growth and Meaning After Loss with Diana Sebzda & Christina Zampitella
Finding Meaning in Loss: The Sixth Stage of Grief with David Kessler
The Missing Stage of Grief: Clinical Strategies to Overcome Anxiety in the Wake of Loss with Claire Bidwell Smith
EMDR for Grief and Loss with Rebecca Kase
Grief after Suicide: Transition Survivors from “Why?” to “What’s Next?” with Rita Schulte
Grief Work in Virtual Settings: New Tools to Create Support and Connection with Alissa Drescher

Join The Embracing Today Program