Personal Intro

My passion comes from my own experiences with the loss of my father 25 years ago. His passing left a void and impacted my life forever.  Later, over a course of eight years, I lost ten students to various traumas causing a plethora of emotions.   

I remember our school being filled with crisis team members for a few days and then they disappeared.  Daily routines resumed as normal, teachers returned to instruction, exams administered, extracurricular and sports activities went on as usual.  

But these traumatic deaths, empty seat in the classroom, lunchroom, gym, library or lockers were anything but normal. I felt compelled to action, bringing a sense of awareness and purpose, giving the grief a place and a voice. I decided to devote myself to bringing a sense of purpose, understanding, and closure to those grieving.  This would move us from a sense of confusion, isolation and acting normal, to an empowered place that freely acknowledges loss and grief allowing one to assume responsibility for their personal recovery. 

I have worked closely with students, parents, staff and families in the Chicago Public School system for over 30 years.  I have a unique perspective on working with all types of individuals and it is my purpose and passion to move people from a place of pain to a place of inner peace and grief recovery. 

I attended many professional trainings that dealt with trauma,but not  grief and loss; the best holistic method I have found is from The Grief Recovery Institute, of which I am certified as a Grief Recovery Specialist. I am also certified through the American Academy of Grief Counseling an affiliate of The American Institute of Health Care Professionals. I also attained my life coaching certification equipping me with additional skill to help clients as they move from recovery to discovery. 

-Suzette R. Porter MBA, MSC, GCC, CLC