A 45-year-old female patient, who recently lost her husband in a tragic accident, is attending a follow-up appointment at the hospital. During the visit, she expresses feelings of overwhelming sadness and difficulty performing daily activities, including caring for her children. The nurse is aware that the patient is experiencing a normal grief reaction but is concerned about the intensity of her symptoms. Which of the following strategies should the nurse implement to assist the patient in coping with her grief effectively?