Soul Work and the Unpredictable Tide: Navigating Grief Beyond the Box

In this episode of The Chaplain’s Compass, hosts John Betz and Alice Tremaine sit down with Kate Meyer, a chaplain, licensed professional counselor, and prolific author specializing in the intersection of faith and bereavement. Kate describes her vocational path as a journey into "soul work," detailing how she eventually merged her background in ordained ministry with clinical counseling to better support those facing complex losses. The conversation centers on the idea that grief is neither linear nor predictable. Kate challenges the traditional "stages of grief" framework, proposing instead a model of "waves" that reflects the ebb and flow of human emotion. She discusses the spiritual tension many feel when religious cliches suggest that faith should erase sorrow, and she offers a refreshing perspective on how Scripture—from the lamentations of Joseph to the different ways Jesus met Mary and Martha—actually validates the individual and often messy nature of mourning. Listeners will find practical wisdom for spiritual care, including techniques like "Psalm-swapping" and grounding exercises that help slow the nervous system. Kate also explains the critical difference between healthy distraction and harmful avoidance, emphasizing that the role of a chaplain is to provide the space and permission for people to sit within their grief until they are ready to move forward. This episode is a deep dive into the necessity of emotional honesty and the healing power of naming both death and non-death losses. Connect with Alice and John:Instagram: @alicetremaine (Alice) | @researchchaplain (John)LinkedIn: Alice Tremaine | John BetzPhone: 502-536-7508 Learn more: Chaplaincy Now | Association of Professional Chaplains