We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Brian Stefan. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Brian below.

Brian, appreciate you joining us today. Looking back on your career, have you ever worked with a great leader or boss? We’d love to hear about the experience and what you think made them such a great leader.

The best boss I ever had was Dr. Jennifer R. Levin (Therapy Heals; From Grief To Growth). Dr. Jennifer Levin exemplified exceptional leadership as a boss for a new grief therapist like myself. As a therapist fresh out of graduate school, I was scared of “saying the wrong thing” with grief clients and feeling unsure at times about how to support those in mourning. Her unwavering support and guidance provided a sturdy foundation upon which I could hone my skills and navigate the complexities of grief counseling. Dr. Levin’s wealth of experience in the field offered invaluable insights, enriching my understanding of therapeutic techniques and approaches. She fostered an environment of open communication and collaboration, where my ideas were welcomed and nurtured, empowering me to contribute meaningfully to the practice. Above all, Dr. Levin’s compassionate demeanor and genuine dedication to our clients instilled in me a profound sense of purpose and empathy, shaping me into a more effective and empathetic therapist. Looking back

Brian, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

As a grief therapist who has experienced the profound loss of a close companion to suicide, prioritizing compassion in my practice is not just a professional ethos but a deeply personal commitment. Through my own journey of grief and healing, I’ve come to understand the transformative power of genuine human connection and compassion. Living as a suicide loss survivor has sensitized me to the delicate nuances of grief, emphasizing the critical importance of creating a safe and empathetic space for my clients to explore their emotions without judgment or pressure.

My approach as a grief therapist is anchored in the belief that authentic connection and compassionate support are fundamental to the healing process. I recognize that each individual’s experience of grief is unique and deeply personal, requiring a tailored approach that respects their autonomy and emotional needs. By prioritizing connection, I strive to forge a therapeutic alliance built on trust and understanding, where clients feel empowered to express themselves openly and vulnerably. This emphasis on compassion not only facilitates healing but also fosters resilience, equipping clients with the emotional tools necessary to navigate their grief journey with courage and self-compassion.

Ultimately, as a grief therapist who has walked the path of loss myself, I understand firsthand the profound impact of compassionate support on one’s journey through grief. By prioritizing connection and compassion above all else, I am committed to accompanying my clients with unwavering empathy and understanding as they navigate the complexities of grief and embark on the path towards healing and growth.

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

I think it is VERY important to have a good sense of humor and be in touch with our “silly” side. All therapists practicing today are faced with stories of deep suffering and challenging emotions in our clients. Despite the serious nature of our work, it is helpful to remain connected to the other aspects of our personalities: laughter, levity, and good humor. Even though it is important to maintain a “sense of the moment” in our work, it is helpful to access all parts of our humanity.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

As a grief therapist, my genuineness is paramount in establishing a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship with my clients. Authenticity serves as the foundation upon which meaningful connections are built, allowing clients to feel seen, heard, and understood in their most vulnerable moments. By embodying genuineness, I create a safe space where clients can openly express their emotions without fear of judgment or pretense. My sincerity fosters a sense of authenticity within the therapeutic environment, empowering clients to explore their grief with honesty and transparency. Through genuine interactions, I convey empathy and validation, affirming the validity of my clients’ experiences and emotions. Ultimately, my commitment to authenticity enables me to forge deep and meaningful connections with my clients, fostering an environment conducive to healing, growth, and emotional resilience.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://caligrief.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brian.stefan.9
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-stefan-los-angeles/