Grief is an uncertain path;
it helps to have a guide
Compassionate grief counseling, support groups, and education in San Diego — with Wendy Kessler, MSW, FT
A Space for Your Grief
Every loss is different. Every person grieves differently. These services meet you where you are — with warmth, expertise, and no judgment.
Individual Counseling
One-on-one grief counseling for individuals, couples, and families. A confidential space to explore what you're carrying — at your own pace.
$95 per session- 60-minute sessions
- In-person (Old Town) or Zoom
- Individuals, couples & families
- Monday, Thursday, Friday
Support Groups
Healing alongside others who understand. Both in-person closed groups and virtual open groups available, divided by time since loss.
From $25/session- 6-week closed series: $180
- Virtual open drop-in: $25
- Adults experiencing death loss
- Two tracks by time since loss
Education & Training
Grief education workshops for organizations, hospices, and healthcare providers. Helping teams better support those who are grieving.
Custom Pricing- Workplace grief workshops
- Healthcare provider training
- Community education events
- Mental Health First Aid
A Fellow in Thanatology. A Compassionate Guide.
Wendy Kessler, MSW, FT founded Grief Guide Consulting in 2022 after more than five years supporting families as a hospice bereavement specialist. She brings deep, specialized training in grief and loss — including a Fellowship in Thanatology through the Association for Death Education and Counseling (ADEC).
Wendy believes grief is not a problem to fix. It is a natural, profoundly human process. Each person's grief is unique, shaped by who they are and who they've lost. Her role is not to hurry you through your grief, but to walk alongside you.
Support Groups
There is something powerful about sitting in a room — physical or virtual — with others who simply understand. You don't have to explain yourself here.
Closed 6-Week Series
A structured, intimate group in Old Town San Diego for adults processing death loss. Same members, six weeks of shared healing.
Open Drop-In Groups
Weekly virtual support via Zoom. Two tracks — within the first year of loss, and one or more years out — so conversations stay relevant.
Words from Those I've Walked With
Frequently Asked Questions
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Each session is a conversation — there's no script or rigid agenda. Together we'll explore what you're carrying, what feels hard, and what feels possible. Wendy's approach is warm and follow-your-lead: you set the pace. Sessions are 60 minutes and held in a comfortable, confidential setting in Old Town San Diego or via Zoom.
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Grief Guide Consulting is currently a private-pay practice. A superbill can be provided for out-of-network reimbursement through your insurance provider. Individual sessions are $95 and group sessions start at $25.
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Grief counseling focuses specifically on the experience of loss — helping you process grief, find meaning, and adapt to life after losing someone important. General therapy is broader and may address depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns. Wendy specializes in grief and bereavement, bringing focused expertise that generalist therapists may not have.
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If loss is weighing on you — whether recently or years ago — you don't need to meet a threshold to seek support. You might benefit from counseling if you feel stuck, overwhelmed, isolated, or if grief is interfering with daily life. There is no wrong time to reach out.
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Absolutely. Virtual open groups are designed for two tracks — within the first year of loss and one or more years out — so conversations are relevant wherever you are on your journey. Grief doesn't follow a timeline.
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Yes. Individual counseling is available in-person (Old Town San Diego) and virtually via Zoom. Virtual support groups are available on Tuesdays. Wendy works with clients across California.
Take the First Step
Reaching out is the hardest part. Whether you have questions, want to schedule a session, or just need to know where to start — Wendy is here and would love to hear from you.
Ready to take
the first step?
You can call or send an email — whichever feels most comfortable. Wendy typically responds within one business day.
Book a Free 15-Min Call Call (858) 859-1728