Grief and Loss Counselling in Burlington, ON.

Loss of a loved one is often one of those most challenging hard ships that we face. Although many try to prepare for loss, we are often faced with more than sadness and emptiness, but with feelings of guilt, anger, disappointment. Therapy can help an individual come to terms with their loss and learn to rebuild life. Although we will not ever forget those who have been close to us, the memories associated with their lives will feel less painful with time.

Are you struggling with the weight of grief and loss? You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. I’m Simona Ilieva, a Registered Psychotherapist, specializing in grief and loss therapy. Whether you’re mourning the loss of a loved one or experiencing another profound life change, I’m here to help you process your emotions, find meaning, and begin the healing process. Together, we’ll work through the pain and guide you toward a place of peace and acceptance. Grief is deeply personal, but with the right support, healing is possible. Let’s take this step toward healing together. Book a free consultation today.

Are you experiencing a loss of sense of self, job loss, separation/divorce, unexpected transitions, death/loss of a loved one (pets included), challenging life transitions, retirement, or unexpected change. Grief comes in all forms. Together we can improve quality of life by learning how to cope with change and bring back joy & humour in difficult times.

As someone who has experienced loss and studied loss, I understand how unique and different everyone's experience with it is. Grief can be one of the most complex and complicated of human experiences and can occur with or without a tangible loss. Using a person centered and strengths based foundation, I will hold space with you and aid you in navigating these complex feelings at your own pace.

When it comes to grief and loss, I choose to use a client-centered approach to therapy. During our sessions, I will work with you, with unconditional positive regard for your situation and emotions, to recognize personal strengths and discover answers within your personal values and beliefs. I believe we are all equipped to make it through various degrees of grief and loss. Using this approach builds upon the individual strength you possess and provides a safe place to explore the emotions and questions you may be encountering.

Grief is the emotional suffering we feel when we lose something or someone important to us. This can include the loss of friend, partner, or family member, a change in life circumstances, death of a pet, getting fired, loss of health, safety, a dream... anything that we once had and now do not. The intensity and process can be unique for each person, but like all other emotions that impact the quality of our life, ignoring it or suppressing it does not work. Seeking support as we move through the various stages of grief is very helpful. Planning for our healing is crucial so that we do not become 'stuck' in the pain. A skilled therapist can assist us during this vulnerable time.

Loss has many faces, coming from many different places. Even small losses can add up and sneak up on us, leaving us empty. While loss is a common part of life, we are not always given the tools or the opportunity to do the emotional work to complete the natural process of grief so we can be free to move on. In our work together, we will explore what is keeping you stuck, and identify the resources you need to move on, while honoring your loss. I can be your companion and share many tools with you on this often lonely journey. As a certified EMDR therapist, I can also help you more easily navigate the hardest parts of the journey using the resources of your own mind.

With Gestalt therapy the five tasks of mourning, are supported: (1) To accept the reality of the loss, (2) To experience the pain of grief, (3) To adjust to the environment in which the deceased is missing, (4) To withdraw (some) emotional energy and reinvest it in another relationship, and (5) To find a place for and maintain a continuing bond with what we lose, however not in any specific order. A gestalt therapist supports the bereaved with an emphasis on a "loving authentic presence and communication that allows expression of EACH other’s personhood" so that feelings are honored and explored at the clients own pace. The here and now is emphasized and that is what leads to support/change

Grief and loss are weaved into our lives in an intimate way. Grief is natural, normal, unique and universal. Grief touches us all at one point or another and is an inevitable part of being human. The experience of grief may be associated with a range of emotions, thoughts and behaviours. It’s important to remember that the journey of grief is not linear and there is no right way to feel. Therapy is a safe space where you can explore your grief. We will move at a pace that feels comfortable to you and I will check in to ensure that you feel safe and supported. Please contact me to schedule a free 15-minute consultation to see if we are a good fit.

Loses happen in our life. The most common response to the significant loss is grief. We all have been there and not just once. Unfortunately, many of us were not prepared for the stress and sadness of loss and did ‘not know how to go through grieving, and what to do to cope with it. At the same time, the science of Psychology developed coping methods and tools that can provide relief and help you get back on your feet. It is not necessary to experience this alone, take the opportunity to come and learn the arsenal of tools under my guidance and support to begin the journey of recovery. We cannot eliminate loses from our life, but we can reduce its negative impact and promote healing.