The Grief Recovery Method

In 1977 overwhelmed with grief after the death of his infant son, John W. James created his own process for grief, which ultimately resulted in the creation of the Grief Recovery Method. Together with Russell Friedman, they authored The Grief Recovery Handbook.

In the handbook, they unpacked an evidence-based program that leads grievers through various healing methods. The first part of the program takes grievers through a deep dive into what grief is, unpacking their specific loss, the possible myths and beliefs that cause grievers to get stuck, and understanding habits that can help aid healing.

The second part of the program teaches what emotional incompleteness means and how this impacts your life and relationships. It also helps to explain how this may cause you to be unable to move forward in your grief journey.

Using support groups, one-on-one coaching, workshops, and self-help books, The Grief Recovery Method uses the principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy. This gives grievers a set of tools and strategies that they can use to process their grief and find a sense of closure. Those books include "The Grief Recovery Handbook," "When Children Grieve," "The Grief Recovery Handbook for Pet Loss," "Moving On," and "Moving Beyond Loss."

This method underscores that grief is a normal and natural response to loss. And while many get stuck in their grief, unable to move on fully—they don't have to stay stuck. The Grief Recovery Method's structured program is effective and even backed by a university study that supports the program's value. In just eight sessions, grievers can work through the losses surrounding the death of a loved one, divorce, or other life-changing events and losses. 

For those interested, The Grief Recovery Certification Training teaches how to help others recover from their losses and find healing. Those who complete the training course can become Grief Recovery Specialists within the program.  

If you are processing the loss of someone you love, you should know the Grief Recovery Method is not a replacement for professional therapy and may not be appropriate for everyone. The way you process your grief is unique to you, your loss, and any potential trauma that may be involved.