As we begin 2017, it can be a good idea to review the past year, and think about what we will do differently in the new year. This can be especially powerful and important if you have experienced a loss.

Research suggests that if we are able to frame loss in a positive way, we handle loss better. That's not to say that we don't grieve, and we don't miss our loved one; but it does mean that we are able to think positively: "Yes, I have experienced the loss of a parent, and that is sad, and I miss my parent every day. On the other hand, I have this wealth of knowledge I learned from my parent, and I do things every day that remind me what a good parent I had. "

This is just one example of how we can think about the positive, and be thankful for the positive impact our loved ones have in our lives.

Kim is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas, as well as a Certified Case Manager and a Clinical Social Worker in Gerontology. She has over 25 years of experience in the field of Social Work, primarily in healthcare.

Kim has 14 years of hospital experience, in inpatient rehab and long term acute care settings. She has almost four years of home health/hospice experience, and currently works for Vitas Healthcare, where she coordinates their Medical Orders for Scope of Treatment (MOST) program. Kim has also been a Geriatric Care Manager, and provided this service while working with an elder law firm.

Kim was a board member for the Tarrant Area Gerontological Society (TAGS) for many years, including four years as the organization’s president. Other volunteer work includes being a member of the Tarrant County Adult Protective Services Community Board, the State Adult Protective Services Board, and currently representing the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) on the Texas MOST Coalition Board.