Hi, I’m Anna!

The loss of my mother and, just three years later, my father thrust me into a period of intense self-reflection. This journey unveiled much about my core, as well as my cultural and spiritual beliefs. Along the way, I faced multiple experiences that contributed to my grief, including two near-death encounters, miscarriage, divorce, empty nest syndrome, the loss of beloved pets, the challenges of aging, retirement, and spiritual struggles. It took time for me to recognize that these losses were part of my grieving process.

I felt trapped in emotional turmoil until I discovered the Grief Recovery Method®—an educational and evidence-based program that empowered me to confront my pain. Through this journey, I found my way back to joy and fulfillment in life.

I now conduct educational workshops and speaking engagements, share experiences and insights, and support others in transforming pain into hope and mental wellness. Together, we can navigate the complexities of the emotional pain of grief and emerge stronger on the other side.

Listen! The emotional pain of grief encompasses death and divorce it is so much more!

Anna candidly shares her journey with “The Chronicles of Les & Mo”!

Here's what I’ve learned:

  • Grief education and my spiritual belief were the keys that unlocked the emotional door, allowing me to move from stuck to unstuck.

  • Armed with personal truths, I learned to approach loss and grief as a natural part of life.

  • I can choose when, who, how, and what will occupy the emotional space in my heart and head.

  • The balance of faith, family, friendship, and meaningful work increased my capacity for joy.

Here's what I did and still do:

  • I took responsibility for my recovery to live differently.

  • I began living with greater expectations of what life offered.

  • I claimed my voice and its power without blaming others or making excuses.

  • I shared the journey with others, and as others heal, my healing continues.

Here's what else I discovered:

  • Giving my time, talent, and resources brings deep joy.

  • Most challenges we face in leadership, business, faith, and life connect to emotional changes of loss and grief.

  • I could no longer sit quietly on the sidelines while countless others silently suffered.

My Tool Box:

After retiring from over 35 years of corporate leadership, I found my passion in coaching others. As a certified trauma-informed Grief Recovery Specialist and a Life Coach, I offer individual coaching and passionate speaking engagements and facilitate engaging workshops utilizing an educational, evidence-based Grief Recovery Method® program.

What I Believe:

I firmly believe that grief education benefits every leader, organization, faith community, and individual by creating a healthier environment, improved mental wellness, and the ability to rediscover and reclaim a deep sense of joy.

Thank you for meeting me here!

-Anna Laura 💙

Anna L. Woods, MMIN

Certified Trauma-informed, Grief Specialist and Life Coach

ALW Coaching Services