Grief and Loss Counselling in Barrie, ON.

The grieving process is a natural and healthy reaction to loss, but individuals may become stuck in the process and unable to move forward with life. When the intense and overwhelming feelings of grief linger for an extended period of time, it is called "complicated grief". This heightened state of mourning prevents one from healing and recovery, which is where therapy can help. ​ If you are experiencing complicated grief, counselling can give you the support needed to healthily recover and find new meaning and acceptance in your life. You will learn how to cope with the painful emotions, accept the devastating loss, and adjust to your new reality.

I, like many of us, am no stranger to the feelings of grief and loss and I am aware of how deeply unique and personal these experiences can be. The way that I imagine being part of your journey through these moments is by holding your hand and walking through this unknown path together, while discovering new aspects and meanings of the self along the way. I will check in with you to ensure that we are walking this path on a pace that is most suitable for you, for there is no need to rush during this time. Contact me to schedule a free consultation to ensure we are a good fit.

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

It is excruciating to endure the pain of grief and loss. Often we cope with avoidance, distraction, numbing or burying our feelings. It's understandable. What we know is that when we confront and face the pain we can heal. We can feel pressured by others to 'get over it' and this can cause anger, hurt and frustration. My hope is to hold space for the range of emotions you may be experiencing where ever you are in your grief process. Grief is not to be overcome but to learn to carry as we move forward in life. In therapy we can explore what mourning looks like and how to reduce suffering amidst the pain.

Losing someone close to you can shake your world and leave you feeling lost, overwhelmed, and disconnected. The sadness, loneliness, anger, and confusion that follow are all natural responses to loss. In our work together, I provide a confidential, compassionate space where you can process grief at your own pace—without judgment. I'm here to help you navigate these difficult emotions, honour the loss, and gradually find your way back to moments of peace and meaning. Healing isn't about "moving on," but rather learning how to move through the pain of the loss while rebuilding a life filled with connection and purpose.

First, my condolences... The death of a loved one or the loss of a significant relationship is the most stressful event we can experience. I can offer you practical support and strategies to cope with your loss as well as to establish new meaning. I also provide therapeutic support for those who anticipate the loss of a loved one during at end of life care as well as helping prepare individuals with their end of life transition.

Grief counseling helps people cope with grief and mourning following the loss of a loved one or due to major life changes that trigger feelings of grief (i.e. job loss or divorce). It provides a space for individuals to work through and process the complex emotions surrounding loss. Healthy grieving results in remembering the loss with a newfound sense of peace, rather than searing pain.

You are hurting right now, and I understand that. Grief has a way of making even ordinary days feel heavy, and you do not have to carry it alone. I have lived through grief and loss many times myself, and in more than three decades of practice I have sat with many people in exactly this kind of pain. Let us talk about what you are feeling. I have been a psychologist since 1986, and I can help. I am based in Calgary and see clients across Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick by secure video. Book a session now: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=14249112

Grief and loss are deeply personal experiences, and everyone’s journey through them is unique. In our sessions, I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space to explore your feelings and memories. Whether you're dealing with the loss of a loved one, a significant life change, or another form of loss, we'll work together at a pace that feels right for you. My approach is to support you in finding your own path to healing while validating your individual experiences and emotions. Reach out to schedule a free 15-minute consultation to begin the process of understanding and coping with your grief.

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.