Workplace

A suicide in the workplace can leave everyone asking:

How could this have happened?
What should we do now?
Should we go to the funeral?
What do we say to the family?
How do we balance grieving and getting back to business?

Co-workers may wonder whether something they did or said (or didn’t do or say) somehow contributed to the suicide. Even those who didn’t know the person well -- or at all-- may find themselves feeling unexpectedly emotional.

As a former corporate attorney and member of the American Association of Suicidology Workplace Committee, I understand that workplaces are complex environments – in some ways they feel like family, yet people are often concerned about being vulnerable or becoming emotional. Because I come in as a subject matter expert (rather than a grief counselor) it creates a more comfortable professional setting to provide pragmatic, concrete answers to the common real-world questions around this stigmatized and often frightening subject.

From hedge funds to hair salons, Fortune 200 companies to consulates, law firms to hospitals, professional associations to military units to universities, I’ve helped diverse workplaces across the country address the aftermath of suicide.

I can help. Contact me, and we'll take it from there.

“I just wanted to thank you so much for your fabulous presentation today. It was very informative and impactful, and your knowledge and compassion came through.”

“You were very, very helpful.

We are so grateful.”

"I was impressed with how Ms. Harpel handles questions and comments."

“Thank you so much for everything. Your session was fantastic and well-received.”

"I strongly recommend her to any group.

She is top notch.”

Printable Bio