Frequently Asked Questions

Learn about our compassionate listening sessions, life transition support, and community gatherings.

About Our Services

What are compassionate listening sessions?

Compassionate listening sessions are safe, judgment-free conversations where you can talk openly about anything—grief, relationships, life transitions, caregiving, fears, dreams, or simply being heard. It's not therapy or coaching. We're here to listen deeply, honor your experience, and offer presence without pressure to change or fix anything.

What life transitions can you support me through?

Season of Grace supports people through any major life transition: divorce, retirement, caregiving, empty nest, job loss, aging, health challenges, grief and loss, relationship changes, major relocations, personal crises, and end-of-life journeys. We also support those navigating uncertainty or seeking deeper meaning. If you're facing a season of change, we're here for you.

Is this therapy or counseling?

No. Season of Grace provides compassionate listening and emotional support—not therapy, counseling, or clinical mental health treatment. We're trained to listen deeply, create safety, and offer presence. If you need clinical mental health services, we can discuss other resources that might complement our support.

Can I get support for grief or loss?

Yes. We understand that grief comes in many forms—the loss of a person, relationship, health, identity, career, or a season of life. Our listening sessions provide a compassionate space to process any kind of loss without timeline or judgment. You're welcome to explore your grief at your own pace.

What if I'm not religious? Can you still support me?

Absolutely. Season of Grace honors all beliefs, worldviews, and spiritual perspectives—or no spiritual perspective at all. We're not here to impose any belief system. We support your authentic values, whatever they are, whether deeply religious, secular, spiritual, or something uniquely your own.

Practical Matters

What does your service cost?

Pricing varies based on the type and scope of service. We offer flexible arrangements and work with individuals and families to find solutions that fit their circumstances. We believe cost should never be a barrier to compassionate support. Contact Mary directly for a personalized conversation about your needs and pricing.

How much notice do you need?

It depends on the service. For listening sessions, we often have availability quickly. For legacy projects, celebration of life planning, or end-of-life support, more advance notice allows for deeper preparation. That said, we do our best to accommodate urgent needs. Contact Mary to discuss your timeline.

What areas do you serve?

Season of Grace serves Moriarty, Edgewood, Cedar Crest, NM and surrounding areas. Depending on the service, we may be able to offer support in other areas or provide remote sessions. Please contact Mary to discuss your location and what we can offer.

Can listening sessions be in-person or remote?

Yes. We offer both in-person and remote listening sessions depending on what works best for you. Some people prefer the personal connection of face-to-face meetings, while others find remote sessions more convenient or comfortable. Let Mary know your preference.

Do you work with other professionals?

Absolutely. We collaborate with therapists, counselors, hospice teams, clergy, medical professionals, and other support providers. Season of Grace works best as part of a larger team all supporting your wellbeing. We're happy to coordinate care with anyone else supporting you.

About The Open Chair Café

What is The Open Chair Café?

The Open Chair Café is a free, community gathering for honest conversations about life's deepest transitions—relationships, grief, caregiving, divorce, aging, uncertainty, personal struggles, and hope. It's a place where people gather to be heard, share wisdom, and know they're not alone in their journey.

Is this a support group or therapy?

Neither. The Open Chair Café is a community gathering for open, judgment-free conversation. While people with shared experiences come together, it's not structured therapy or crisis intervention. It's simply about creating connection and a space where all experiences and feelings are honored.

Do I have to talk if I attend?

No. Participation is always optional. Many people find value in simply listening to others' perspectives and realizing they're not alone. You're welcome to share or simply be present—whatever feels right for you.

What if I'm nervous about attending?

That's completely normal. Many first-time attendees feel nervous. Mary creates a welcoming, safe, judgment-free environment where people are treated with respect and dignity. You can reach out beforehand to talk about what to expect and get your questions answered.

How much does it cost to attend?

The Open Chair Café gatherings are completely free and open to everyone in the community. No registration is required, though RSVPs help us prepare. Everyone is welcome.

Special Services

Do you offer faith-based support?

Yes. Season of Grace offers faith-based encouragement, prayer, and faith-centered conversations for those seeking spiritual comfort, hope, and reassurance during difficult seasons. We honor your specific faith tradition and beliefs while providing compassionate spiritual presence.

Do you offer support for caregivers?

Absolutely. Caregiving can be deeply isolating and emotionally exhausting. Our listening sessions provide encouragement, emotional support, and a place where caregivers can be heard. We understand the unique challenges of caring for others and provide compassionate presence for that journey.

Do you offer corporate or workplace wellness services?

Yes. Season of Grace offers confidential listening sessions and small group conversations for employees navigating life transitions, grief, or emotional stress. These programs complement existing wellness initiatives by offering emotional support that goes beyond traditional services. Contact Mary to discuss customized solutions for your organization.

Getting Started

How do I know if now is the right time to reach out?

If you're asking this question, it's probably the right time. Whether you're in crisis, facing a major transition, or simply want to explore meaningful conversations, Season of Grace is here. There's no "too early" or "too late." Reach out when something in you says it's time.

What's the first step?

Simply contact Mary using the form on our site. Share a bit about your situation, what you're facing, and what matters to you. We'll have a conversation to understand your needs and explore how Season of Grace can best support you.

Will you judge me or my choices?

Absolutely not. Season of Grace is built on deep respect for your autonomy and your unique values. Whatever your choices, beliefs, or circumstances, you'll be met with genuine compassion and without any judgment.

What if I'm not sure what I need?

That's okay. Not everyone knows exactly what they need. Reach out anyway. Our first conversation is about listening and understanding your situation. From there, we can discuss which type of support—listening sessions, life transition support, legacy work, or something else—would be most helpful for you.

Ready to Start a Conversation?

These FAQs cover the basics, but every situation is unique. Mary is always here to answer your questions and discuss how Season of Grace can support you through this season of your life.

Contact Mary