None of us is a stranger to loss or death. It puts us in a place we didn’t choose to be. Mourning is a path on which none of us wants to walk alone. Rare, though, are those who are willing to companion us along this painful journey. Rarer still are those who are capable of instilling the courage to undertake it and the confidence that pain can lead to growth—impossible as that feels in the grip of grief. Melissa Axler does just that.

In 35 years of pastoral work, I have been privileged to know, and often work with, many gifted professionals in the field of pastoral counseling. Among these Melissa Axler is outstanding. Uniquely qualified and experienced, accompanying those who grieve, both adults and children, is the passion that fires Melissa’s professional practice. Where does my conviction come from? From experience. A most significant personal loss, which happened during a time of major transition, led me to participate in a bereavement program sponsored by Wellspring in Oakville, Ontario. It was guided by Melissa, and I have benefitted greatly by her holistic approach to the complex world of grief-- both through her well-honed group facilitation skills and also her expertise in one-to-one relationships. In addition, Melissa was generous in providing rich resources, as well as others which were specifically designed to serve individual needs. Even outside the scheduled group sessions, she was readily available to respond to the concerns of each person, and with an unfailing depth of insight and compassion.

I am profoundly grateful for Melissa’s wise and warm accompaniment.

Patricia C, D. Min.

 

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When I first agreed to go the 'Grief Counselling ' Sessions at 'Wellspring' with Melissa Axler, my main reason was to go for my Mum's benefit and keep her company.  I had only planned to go to the first couple of sessions.  After the first session, I thought 'Wow' this is really making me think and I was overwhelmed with feelings.  Melissa has a way of getting a person to open up and talk about their deepest feelings.  I astonished myself with what I said to the group about how I really felt, saying things I had never said to anyone before.
 
After the second session, I felt very blessed to be part of Melissa's 'grief counselling class'.. It has helped me a great deal with my pain and loss and reminded me of my 'spiritual beliefs'.  I didn't realized that I had locked my grief away, trying to be strong and not cry for my mother's sake.  It feels like a dam has been opened, flooding my negative feelings away.  I have been reminded of my amazing Dad's legacy and that he believed 'Life is Sweet'.  I knew he would want me to live my life that way.  Without the group sessions, I know I would not have found the peace and acceptance I feel,  so soon.  I still miss my Dad, but life is sweeter.   I found this advice my Dad had written on a blank card and left it for us to find after he had passed on.  It reads as follows:
 
'GOOD ADVICE TO ALWAYS REMEMBER'!!!!
 
CHERISH family and friends as if your life depends on it (it does).  LOVE people more than THINGS.
INDULGE in the 'FOOL' in you.  Don't FRET about MISTAKES.  Don't mistake your JOB for your
LIFE!!!!                                                                                                       JKB.
 
Blessings,
Cathie B.

 

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Good Afternoon Melissa,

I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for the help you've provided during the recent difficult period in my life. Your words and insight were both comforting and meaningful and impacted me tremendously.

Thank you again so much for the help, kindness, and understanding.

God Bless you always,
Dwayne D.

 

 

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Hi Melissa,

I wanted to thank you for your help this year regarding my divorce.  Our
meetings were a much needed outlet for my emotions and questions during
this time.
I especially appreciated the patience you showed me as I worked through the
issues and self-doubt.
Your help was invaluable to me and I am grateful for the self-confidence
that you helped me regain.

Sincerely,
Sonya

 

 

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Two years after my husbands death, I was still so afraid to face my grief and I knew I couldn't do it alone.  I didn't want to "die within" my grief - at 44 I was too young for that, plus I had 2 children that I was now faced with raising alone.  I had seen Melissa's ads in my local newspaper several times and one day realized that I had had enough and ready or not, I wanted to start my journey to healing.  That phone call changed me forever - yes, for the better !

Grief is very universal, but so different for each individual - Melissa's knowledge and compassion made me feel safe to experience and learn from my grief.  Each time I walked into her then "home office", it felt as if I was getting a safe warm hug and that prepared me for more letting go and growing into who I am today, all with Melissa's gentle guidence and encouragement.  Using several of her stategies and recommendations, I was able to grow into what I believe is my true spiritual self and each and every day I'm so thankful for what Melissa has shown me - not just in my grief, but for giving me the skills that help me to cope with whatever life gives me.  Melissa and what she does, is truely a gift to all who have had the privilege of her guidance on their personal journey to healing.
 
Forever greatful,
                      Judy

 

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Dear Melissa:

There is no bond as great as that between a parent and child.

I want to thank you for being there and helping to guide me through the journey. I believe I have been blessed to have made your acquaintance.

With love and appreciation,

Lynne