Grief and Loss Counselling in Petawawa, ON.

Grief and loss are viewed as inescapable features of normal human experience. Clients can expect a supportive approach which invites narration, catharsis, encourages creative commemorative rituals and molding new traditions, with a view to extracting the grains of wisdom and lessons for living that can be buried, yet found around a loss. Traumatic loss can be more complicated and clients may be helped by a process similar to the one outlined above, but including trauma re-processing techniques to help them shrink and cope with the worst, stickiest memories and distress of an extreme experience of loss. "Sometimes the only cure for grief, is grieving." Dana Reeve

In times of deep loss, finding a way forward can feel overwhelming. With rich experience supporting those living with terminal illnesses and families who have lost loved ones, I understand there are no "right" ways to grieve. I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can share your unique journey. I’ll be here with you, honoring your feelings and helping you heal at your own pace, with empathy and care. Please schedule a free consultation with me to see if 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

Grief can affect every part of your life, leaving you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward with your life. Whether you're mourning the loss of a loved one, an ended relationship, or an important life chapter, you deserve a space where your experience is met with compassion. I truly believe grief is meant to be processed with a sense of community- we are not designed as humans to grieve in isolation.I offer a trauma-informed approach using Narrative Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy to help you process your emotions, make sense of your loss, and gradually reconnect with yourself as you move forward in a way that feels aligned with you.

Your experiences of grief and loss are unique. Therapy can provide a safe space to learn about grief and what to expect during this process. It may be helpful to explore some of the emotions you are experiencing, while understanding how to stay connected to others and develop a new relationship to and understanding of the loss you have endured. Book a free consultation to explore if we are a good fit.

Grief can feel overwhelming and confusing and it can be hard to know how to cope with these emotions and our sense of loss. In times like these it can be so helpful to have a person come alongside and walk this journey with you. In my work with individuals who have experienced grief, I support each person to discover their own unique path to healing from grief. Book a free consultation to explore if we are a good fit.