In this profoundly moving episode, Julia shares a deeply personal untold story that begins with loss—the loss of her beloved mother, a woman who wasn’t just a parent, but also her best friend, protector, and guiding compass. As her mother’s health declined, Julia tried to remain fully present, asking tender questions and offering emotional support through the unknowns of anticipated grief. One moment that stayed with her was her mother describing how, as a child, she found comfort sitting beneath the soft canopy of a willow tree. That image became a symbol of comfort and connection—and would eventually inspire the name and vision of Julia’s wellness practice. In the same breath that she said goodbye to her mother, Julia stepped into a new chapter of her life, launching a therapy practice rooted in grief, legacy, and love. She opens up about how grief, in its complexity, dulled everything that once brought her joy—her passions, her sense of purpose, and even her capacity to feel excitement. The emotional toll was heavy: restlessness, depression, waves of anger, and deep confusion about how to best support her mother during such a painful time. Julia speaks openly about her journey toward accepting medication, the reflection it required, and the realization that tending to her own mental health was also a form of honouring her mother. Through it all, she chose to turn sorrow into something sacred—creating a space for others to heal, connect, and feel held. Her key message to the listeners is: Grief may test you more than anything else you'll ever have to face; it's okay to feel stronger on some days and weaker on other days; hold back on self-judgement; and transform pain into purpose.   Guest Bio: Julia is a compassionate and evidence-based Registered Social Worker and the founder of Willow Tree Wellness & Psychotherapy in Pickering, Ontario. With over a decade of experience in clinical research, hospice, and crisis intervention, she supports children, teens, and adults navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, Autism, emotional regulation, and life transitions. Inspired by her late mother Laurie—who often found peace and grounding under a willow tree—Julia envisioned her practice as that same sanctuary for clients: a safe, empowering space to heal and grow.   Since launching Willow Tree Wellness in March 2025, Julia has been providing both in-person and virtual sessions, as well as workshops on topics such as self-esteem, stress and anxiety, and supporting neurodivergent youth and families. She holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Toronto and a strong academic foundation in social work and health studies. Outside of her practice, Julia finds joy in gardening, yoga, pickleball, and spending time with her dog and loved ones.     Passionate about: Julia sends love to Happy Grieving for her grief trip, Von Durham Hospice for meaningful art therapy, and Elizabeth Dougherty—an incredible grief therapist who helped her feel seen and supported.     URL for shoutout: Happy Grieving Von Durham Hospice Elizabeth Dougherty   Where to find me: Website: https://willowtreewellnessandpsychotherapy.ca/ Instagram: @juliafalzarano.therapy & @willowtreepsychotherapy  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/Julia-evelyn-falzarano

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