JACKIE SMUCKLER Marriage and Family Therapy
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Grief Over a Pet is Normal

Download My Pet Grief Guide
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Losing a pet or anticipating the loss of a pet can be devastating.  Research has shown that humans can mourn the loss of animals more intensely than the loss of a human loved-one. 

​The human-animal relationship is simple and uncomplicated.  With our human relationships, even with our closest loved ones, there is a wider range of emotions people experience and have to process, which makes the grieving process very different.  

Our pets are an every day part of our lives.  They provide us with unconditional love, support and so much more.  Their main existence in our lives as companions, are to give and receive love.  They allow us to safely be our most vulnerable selves, with complete acceptance.  

I can help support you through the process of grief surrounding your beloved pet with one-on-one counseling.  I also facilitate a pet loss support group twice a month that might be a better fit (see below for details).

Need support but not sure if a group or counseling is right for you?  Download the pet grief guide above that provides information on what to expect when you're grieving a pet and some ways you can help yourself mourn the loss.

Want to know more about pets and our strong connection to them?  I've listed some resources below that might be helpful in the journey of pet loss.

Contact Me

Helpful Articles

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www.nytimes.com/interactive/2019/03/19/well/family/19petgoodbye-quiz.html?module=inline5 Reasons We Should Take Pet Loss Seriously.

The 5 Stages of Grief.

How do we know when it's time? - A quality of life scale.
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The Role of Pets In Management of Mental Health.
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Four Steps to Take After Experiencing Pet Loss


Pet Loss Support Group

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 Who: Pet parents whose pets have died or are lost, or are anticipating the death of a pet.  New   members must call for initial consultation to make sure group is the most appropriate resource for you at this time.

 What: Support group of 3 to 12 people sharing  experiences, coping skills and hope.  Members are encouraged to show up to each session for at least four sessions for continuity of care and for normalizing of the group experience.

 Where:  A safe, confidential, intimate, space where you can be met with empathy and openness.  Parking is free and available above ground and in parking garage. 

 When: Meetings will be held the 2nd and 4th Monday of every month unless notified 1 week prior of a change.  Meetings will be cancelled if less than 3 members are scheduled to come and individual counseling sessions will be offered at a lower cost to those needing support that week.

Cost: $35 per person, per session.   Payment is due at the beginning of each session.  I accept cash, check or credit card.                                                                                                                                                                                                          



​2615 Pacific Coast Hwy.,

​​Ste. 324 & 327

Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 




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Contact Me
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310-259-9751

​JackieSmucklerTherapy@gmail.com


Jackie Smuckler, MA, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist #117016
  • Home
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  • Pet Loss
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