When someone you love is approaching the end of life, families often find themselves carrying emotional, practical and relational pressures alongside anticipatory grief. There can be uncertainty about what to expect, how to support one another, and how to navigate changing roles, needs and decisions.
My role is to support both the individual and the people who love them — offering calm presence, listening, reassurance and practical support as circumstances evolve.
You can also read more about the overall role and approach on the End-of-Life Doula Support page.
Every family is different. Support is always shaped around what feels helpful, respectful and appropriate for you.
Emotional & Relational Support
Serious illness and dying can bring complex emotions — fear, sadness, anger, love, tenderness, unfinished conversations, and deep reflection. Families often experience anticipatory grief long before death occurs.
I can support families by:
• Offering a calm, non-judgemental listening presence
• Creating space for honest conversations, when welcomed
• Supporting emotional expression in ways that feel safe and respectful
• Helping families navigate sensitive conversations and wishes
• Supporting connection, meaning-making and memory creation
• Encouraging gentle rituals, reflection, or legacy work if desired
Sometimes the most valuable support is simply having someone steady and compassionate alongside you during difficult moments.
Practical Support for Carers
Caring for a loved one can be emotionally demanding and physically exhausting. Many carers juggle work, family responsibilities, appointments and daily life while trying to remain present and loving.
Depending on circumstances, support may include:
• Sitting with the individual to allow carers time to rest or step away
• Accompanying to appointments or helping to capture information
• Light practical support such as companionship, errands or coordination
• Helping families organise plans, wishes and communication
• Supporting carers emotionally as roles shift and energy changes
This practical presence can help reduce overwhelm and allow carers to feel less alone.
Supporting Family Dynamics
Illness and end-of-life can amplify existing family patterns and tensions. Different people cope in different ways, and misunderstandings or stress can arise.
Where appropriate, I gently support:
• Understanding differing needs and coping styles
• Improving communication and emotional safety
• Respecting boundaries and individual wishes
• Supporting shared decision-making where helpful
• Creating calm during periods of change or uncertainty
Always with respect, neutrality and care.
My approach is shaped by my wider therapeutic background and volunteer work, which you can read more about on the About Katrina page.
After Death & Bereavement Support
Support does not necessarily end at the moment of death. Some families appreciate gentle guidance and presence during the early stages of bereavement.
This may include:
• Emotional support and listening
• Gentle practical guidance if requested
• Helping families settle, reflect and transition
• Signposting to further support when helpful
Support remains flexible and responsive to what each family needs.
If you would like to explore whether this type of support would be helpful for your family, you are welcome to get in touch for a confidential conversation.