Grief and Loss Counselling in Strathroy, ON.

The journey through loss or grief can be difficult and can sometimes feel overwhelming. I can help get through the difficult times and places where people sometimes get 'stuck'. My certificate from UWO in Grief and Bereavement gave me the necessary training but I also have the experience and ability to hear and walk with hurting people. Death of a loved one, relationship loss, empty nest, or job loss are only a few of the life losses that people grieve. I can help.

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

In the depths of grief, finding solace can feel like an impossible journey. You're not alone, and your pain is valid. I'm here to provide a compassionate and understanding space where you can navigate your own path to healing. No judgment, no expectations—just support tailored to your needs. Together, we'll honor your journey and explore ways to find peace amidst the pain. Reach out today to start your healing process. Your first consultation is free, and I'm here to support you.

My approach to grief and loss therapy is client-centered and psychodynamic, helping men understand how unresolved grief can impact their relationships and emotional well-being. Loss—whether from the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or unacknowledged emotional wounds—can shape how men connect with others, often leading to emotional withdrawal, difficulty expressing vulnerability, or patterns of disconnection. In therapy, we explore the deeper impact of grief, uncovering how past losses influence current relationships and emotional patterns. By working through these emotions in a supportive space, you can process unresolved pain, rebuild trust in relationships, and develop heal

There is intangible and tangible loss both of which are important to acknowledge and allow the individual to grieve in their manner. Having patience and understanding of where the individual is at with their grief is important to help them cope and build strategies to move on with their life. It is important to understand the stages of grief and loss and to acknowledge the stages don't always happen in order, in a timely way, or that all stages are even reached. Grieving for each indivudal is different, it is important for a therapist to recognize and validate for the indivudal seeking counseling that what they are feeling is normal.

Processing loss is painful, confusing and often isolating. This is not something that is as simple as progressing through "stages" in order and typically involves emotions that we have been taught to avoid or suppress. Working with a therapist to unpack and go through grief and loss can offer some space and perspective that is not there when we talk with friends and family. Here you can have a non-judgmental space to take the time to work this out in the way that you need. This is not always easy, but we can navigate this together.

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.

Are you feeling kind of lost, disoriented, with no energy, now that he/ she/ they/ it are gone? Any kind of loss implies a change and any kind of change implies a loss. It can be from losing another person, a pet, a job, an expectation, a friendship, relocating and/ or loss of health/ a change in your body/ or a reaction following a natural disaster or a violent event. Have you tried to just "take it; tough it out" and not given yourself the time to really grieve and heal? Adela can facilitate your healthy grieving. Through this process you can find your ground and re-create your life in a new way.

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.