Grief can feel deeply isolating, especially when it is difficult to talk openly with family, friends, or people around you. If you are struggling after the loss of a loved one, you do not have to go through it alone.

 

• What Is Grief?

Grief is the deep emotional pain that can arise after loss, bereavement, regret, or despair. The experience of grief is different for every person, and there is no “correct” way to heal.

 

• What Is Grief Support?

Grief support is not about giving quick advice or forcing someone to “move on.”
It is about having a compassionate person beside you — someone who listens carefully, respects your feelings, and supports you at your own pace.

I offer a safe and private space where you can speak openly about your loss, emotions, memories, fears, or loneliness without judgment.

 

• About Me

I live in Sendai and have been involved in grief support and community activities for many years.

In 2010, I lost my wife at the age of 44. Through my own experience of bereavement, I came to understand how difficult and lonely grief can be. Since then, I have studied grief care extensively and obtained the Advanced Grief Care Advisor certification through the Japan Grief Care Association.

 

I am also a certified cancer peer supporter and have completed intensive training in compassionate listening organized by the Tokyo Acupuncture and Moxibustion Association.

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In addition, I organize “Death Café Sendai,” a gathering where people can talk openly and casually about life, death, and grief in a supportive environment.

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• Online Grief Support

I offer one-on-one grief support sessions online via Zoom, Skype, or email.

These sessions are especially intended for international residents, expats, researchers, students, medical professionals, and others living in Japan who may feel emotionally isolated or unsupported while coping with loss.

You are welcome to contact me whether your loss is recent or from many years ago.

* Fees

* 30-minute session: $30

* 60-minute session: $50

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• Online End-of-Life Education

There are several education workshops:

 

e.g. “Kokoro Letters: Ichigo Ichie and Writing What Matters Most”
Description:
In this reflective writing workshop, inspired by the Japanese tea ceremony's principle of Ichigo Ichie (“one life, one meeting”), you’ll be invited to pause, reflect, and write a heartfelt letter. The session will guide you to express love, gratitude, or messages of significance to those you care about — or to yourself. Just as each tea ceremony is a unique encounter, this moment is an opportunity to create something lasting. With no writing experience required, just bring an open heart and the willingness to share your truth.

* Fees

* 60-minute session $50

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• Contact

Email: agefriendlysendai@gmail.com

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Masatoshi Shoji, Advanced Grief Care Advisor
Based in Sendai

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