Grief and Loss Counselling in Gananoque, ON.

My training with the complex facets of bereavement counselling is from McGill's School of Social Work. There, I learned the importance of validating a person's feelings and varying reactions in a non-judgemental way. My focus is to provide a caring, empathic response to encourage emotional healing. My theoretical framework is largely based on the work of Therese A. Rando's 6 stages: 1- Recognize loss, 2- React to loss, 3-Recollect and Re-Experience the lost relationship, 4-Relinquish and start a process of accomodation to the loss (not necessarily of accepting it) by working on 5- Readjust and 6- Reinvesting in life. I also use the Grief Recovery Handbook by James & Friedman.

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

Whether through a death or a break up, loss and the grieving process is extremely difficult. I’m sure you’ve heard of the stages of grieving (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance). But, they don’t always go in that order, and they often jump around in your time line. Your grieving process has no time limits, and every journey is unique. I will walk with you through that, at your pace. No matter which stage of grieving you’re in, reach out to schedule a free 15-minute consultation to see if we are a good fit.

Grief and loss can feel overwhelming, touching every part of life and leaving people unsure of how to move forward. In my approach, I create a compassionate, supportive space where clients can express their feelings openly, without judgment. Together, we explore the unique ways grief shows up, whether through sadness, anger, guilt, or even numbness, and find meaningful ways to cope and heal. Using approaches like person-centered therapy, mindfulness, and narrative techniques, I support clients in honoring their loss, making sense of their emotions, and gradually rebuilding a sense of hope and connection in their lives.

Feelings of grief and loss are a normal part of life! People often feel self-conscious about expressing there feelings to the people in their lives who may had either 'moved on' or who don't know how best to help. I provide a safe place for people to verbalize the feelings of grief and/or disorientation they may be experiencing following the loss of either of loved one or the loss of stability through changes in employment , moving, or other major life transitions.

Loss and grief can have different meanings and natures. We immediately think of the death of a loved when referring to a loss, but a loss can also present itself differently to you: loss of your health, job, separation, divorce, retirement, etc. Everybody copes differently, there are no fixed steps or duration in the process. I am available to accompany you and support you during the transition and adjustment you are facing.

Grief can feel overwhelming, isolating, and confusing. Whether you’re coping with the death of a loved one, the loss of a relationship, or other life transitions, I offer a space to process these painful emotions at your own pace. Together, we can explore how grief affects your identity, relationships, and daily functioning, and gently work toward finding meaning, connection, and healing.

In my practice you will find a safe place to talk about and work through pain, and the feelings of sadness, confusion, guilt, shame and anger that often accompany the experience of grief and loss. Moving through grief and loss is your personal journey that takes time and is experienced uniquely from your own perspective. I provide therapy, counselling and and support for people who have lost a loved one such as a family member, friend or colleague whether through death or the ending of a relationship, those who have lost an important pet or animal companion or people who have experienced a loss that includes a loss of a job or personal identity.

Grief is like a gut-punch that seems to never subside. With a compassionate approach and gentle style, I help individuals navigate the complexities of grief, providing tools to cope with the pain of loss while honoring their unique experiences. Through empathetic listening and tailored therapeutic techniques, clients will learn to understand their grief, develop healthy coping strategies, and find a renewed sense of hope and meaning in life.