Today we’d like to introduce you to Hillary Schmidt.
Hi Hillary, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always loved talking with people and listening to their stories. In high school, I thought I wanted to be a therapist, but I ultimately pursued my BFA at SCAD. A few years after graduating, my mom was diagnosed with Leiomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. She passed away 10 months later. I was in my mid-20s, six months into my marriage, and grappling with the profound impact of losing a parent. During this time, I started reading books and listening to podcasts on grief, loss, spirituality, and relationships. As I navigated my own grief, I (re)discovered a deep passion for this work. Over the years, my desire to support others through challenging life moments grew. I became a Certified Life Coach and trained with David Kessler to become a Certified Grief Educator. Now, my practice focuses on guiding people through grief and transition – whether it’s processing a loss, dealing with an identity crisis, or feeling stuck in their career or personal life. Helping people navigate tough life moments is a true privilege for me.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’ve learned that grief – the word – and this work, can be challenging for people. Some people run towards it and others run away from it. Some people embrace their grief and their struggles and others push it away. It’s been challenging to find the balance of marketing and sharing what I do in a way that’s not such a downer. Grief isn’t just about being sad, it’s also about embracing the love that was shared and how deeply people care for one another. My practice is more than just grief work, it’s also about transformation and working through tough life moments. So I’ve struggled with how to appeal this work to both people in loss and people in times of deep change.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Oceanside Coaching?
At Oceanside Coaching, we specialize in supporting individuals through grief, personal transition, and other life challenges. We offer 1 on 1 sessions ranging from 30, 60 or 90 minutes via zoom. As a Certified Life Coach and Certified Grief Educator, my focus is on providing compassionate and practical guidance for those navigating profound moments of change. Having gone through significant loss myself, I bring a deeply empathetic, understanding, and client-centered approach to my work. Truly, every person I work with I am reminded of the resiliency of humans and I am so honored to witness their journey. My mission is to help individuals not just cope with grief or life transitions, but to ultimately thrive and find meaning in these experiences. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for reflection, healing, and growth. Whether you’re facing the loss of a loved one, navigating a career change, or going through an identity shift, my services are tailored to meet your needs and help you move forward with clarity and resilience. My approach is holistic, and I aim to guide individuals toward healing, self-discovery, and empowerment. With coaching and grief education, we work together to transform the challenges you’re facing into opportunities for growth and renewal.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My mom was first generation from Germany and almost everyone on her side of the family is still there. During the summer we would go to Germany and stay in our family house, visit with people and travel around. There was a currant bush in the backyard and we’d eat the fruit. Recently I found currants at Whole Foods and it brought me right back! I have some really great memories from those trips.
Pricing:
- 30 minute session: $62
- 60 minute session: $125
- 90 minute session: $185
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.oceansidecoaching.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oceansidecoaching/
