12/15/2025
In this episode of Therapists Unplugged, hosts and therapists Katie Gerwel and Emily McCarty explore why the holidays can feel especially heavy. Katie and Emily discuss how memories, traditions, and societal pressure to “be happy” intensify emotions. They normalize all forms of grief, from death to shifting family dynamics. They offer gentle ways to honor loved ones, navigate overwhelming moments, simplify holiday expectations, and care for your emotional capacity. The episode closes with a reminder to listeners that grief and joy can coexist. In this post, see the Cheese ball ornament and the tattoo that was mentioned. These are ways Emily and Katie had honored their loved one.