Marcy’s Journey to Becoming a Therapist

It was during an undergraduate course titled “Death and Dying” that I had the epiphany that my career would have something to do with death.

Fresh garden flowers symbolizing healing with a grief counselor in Cincinnati, OH; supportive grief counseling in Cincinnati, OH guided by a grief counselor in Ohio and trauma therapy Cincinnati. I wasn’t drawn to the field of death, dying, and bereavement because of some dark macabre fascination with dying. Quite the opposite: I realized that by working closely with people facing their own mortality, I would be reminded of the fragility of life and thus its beauty. I credit that class with my chosen profession, but I don’t think I was there by accident. Like many of my current clients, I was trying to make sense of a personal tragedy. My best friend and college roommate had died by suicide the previous year. Of course, the class didn’t answer my questions about why my dear friend died. Like so many things in life, that remains a senseless mystery. But it gave me a direction to go with my grief – even though I didn’t connect those dots for many years.

After an undergraduate degree in Sociology, I pursued a Master’s degree in Social Work.

I had hopes of becoming a hospice Social Worker, which I did. First, I worked for an adult hospice and then for a children’s hospice program. I was a Social Worker and Bereavement Coordinator for the Children’s Hospital for nearly 16 years. I quickly learned NOT to mention my occupation when at a party. My job title was confusing for some people. Why would a children’s hospital need a hospice program? Why would parents need a grief counselor? Mentioning it tended to be the biggest buzz kill of all.

While always a Social Worker, I found that my real passion and gift was with the counseling part of my role.

Marcy smiling on a carousel horse— a grief counselor in Kentucky and grief counselor in Cincinnati, OH, providing grief counseling in Ohio alongside trauma therapy Cincinnati. For almost 30 years, I have focused on ways to support terminally ill, bereaved, and traumatized persons, and I continue to find joy in witnessing people reclaim life and all its beauty. I have studied grief and the effects of trauma, both on the individual brain and body and on the system (family and friends).

Gratitude is a practice I often recommend. It is (of course) not as simple as saying, “Be thankful!” In fact, you would probably find that to be a bit rude and dismissive of your pain. It begins small. One thought at a time. One belief at a time. First, you must feel safe. Then, you must believe that you deserve to be happy. It takes a lot of work. I have seen many people find joy again, even after unspeakable tragedy.

I am so grateful for the work that I do. It is a daily inspiration to cherish the moment.

I learn something new from each of my clients. There’s a message there, too. I don’t know your road map. My job is to help you find it by listening to you, trying to understand you, and offering tools so that you can manage the stressful parts of the journey.

Two friendly donkeys near the home of a grief counselor in Ohio; resources for grief counseling in Cincinnati, OH, from a grief counselor in Kentucky, and expert trauma therapy Cincinnati. And, yes, even therapists need to be reminded to practice what they preach! My self-care is in nature. I love spending time getting dirty in the garden and taking care of my animals. Donkeys give great hugs, and goats will always make you laugh!

Ready to find your way back to life’s beauty? Find support now.

You don’t have to make sense of loss alone. If you’re navigating grief, trauma, or the tender work of living after a devastating goodbye, Thrive Therapy is here to listen, guide, and offer tools that help you feel safer, steadier, and more hopeful—one small step at a time. You can get started with Marcy or another member on our team by following these simple steps:

Schedule a consultation to explore whether grief or trauma therapy is right for you
Send a message with a few lines about what you’re carrying—our team will respond with thoughtful next steps
Get started with a first session focused on safety, relief, and practical support

Other Services Offered with Thrive Therapy Inc.

Thrive Therapy Inc. supports clients across Kentucky & Ohio. Because many people face more than one concern at a time, we offer a range of services for trauma, grief, and loss. Our team is happy to also offer a variety of in-person and online therapy services to support you. Other services offered include therapy for sexual assault survivors, PTSD treatment, first responders, and childhood trauma survivors. You can learn more by visiting our FAQ or blog pages today.