If you’re grappling with a significant loss or major life change, or know someone who is, an upcoming workshop in Guelph may provide the support you need. Ursula Darby, a certified grief educator, is hosting an interactive session titled “When Life Changes: A Workshop in Healing” to help individuals process grief and navigate difficult transitions.

Darby, who has over 21 years of experience supporting those experiencing loss, believes many people fail to recognize grief in their lives. “People grieve many things beyond death—loss of a career, health, or relationships—and often don’t realize the toll it takes,” she explains. “I help them identify these feelings, understand them, and ultimately begin to heal.”

The workshop, designed for anyone going through major changes or for those who want to better support loved ones, will be held at Silence Sounds on April 2 from 7 to 9 p.m. at 46 Essex St.

During the two-hour interactive session, participants will not only gain a deeper understanding of grief but also learn practical tools to cope with loss. Darby emphasizes that the workshop is just as valuable for those who are trying to support someone through grief, as understanding how to help others is just as important as healing oneself.

“We all need to learn about grief,” Darby says. “It’s uncomfortable, yes, but it’s essential to understand how we can help others and how to heal ourselves. Grief is something we don’t talk about enough, and people feel isolated as a result.”

Darby’s approach is straightforward: “The most important thing you can do to support someone through grief is to listen,” she says. “Just being present, hearing their story, and acknowledging their feelings is powerful. You don’t need to offer advice or solutions; sometimes, being there is all someone needs.”

The fear of saying the wrong thing often keeps people from reaching out, but Darby encourages attendees to embrace their discomfort and ask others if they want to talk about their loss. She believes that simply being a compassionate listener can be the most empowering act of support.

“We don’t heal in isolation,” Darby stresses. “We heal in community, in groups, with people who create a safe space free from judgment. Being vulnerable with others is often the most powerful step in healing.”

For Darby, helping people understand and process grief is a deeply personal mission. She’s passionate about offering a space where individuals can confront their emotions without fear of being judged. “I want people to feel seen and heard,” she says. “It’s my honor to support them through their grief journey.”

Beyond this workshop, Darby hopes to continue speaking to diverse groups, including seniors, those in hospice, and victims of abuse and domestic violence. She’s also keen on reaching younger audiences, such as university students, who may be dealing with grief or loss at an earlier stage in their lives.

For more information about Darby’s work, you can explore resources by David Kessler, a well-known grief expert, at grief.com.

“I love my work,” says Darby. “It lights me up to help people through their grief. Helping others feel seen and understood is truly fulfilling.”