Grief and Loss
Grief, Loss, and Bereavement
Grief is more than just a word—it’s the deep, personal experience of loss that can shake the very foundation of your world. Whether it’s the passing of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or another profound change, grief takes many forms, and no two journeys are the same.
How we process loss is shaped by our life experiences, beliefs, upbringing, and the closeness we shared with what we’ve lost. Some find solace in memories, while others feel overwhelmed by waves of sadness, anger, or even numbness. There’s no "right" way to grieve—only your way.
If you're struggling to navigate this painful chapter, know that you don’t have to do it alone. Healing takes time, and support can make all the difference.
Some symptoms during bereavement can include:
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Shock
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Numbness
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Anger
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Denial
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Guilt
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Sadness
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Crying
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Changes in appetite and/or sleep
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Trouble concentrating
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Social isolation
Grief counseling is a type of therapy that aims to help individuals and/or families cope with a significant loss, such as the death of a loved one or pet. In the short term, grief counseling can help someone heal from the emotional and physical pain that can arise from experiencing a loss, as well as help them talk about their thoughts and emotions related to the loss. Long term, grief counselling can help someone adapt to life, and find meaning again.
Some types of psychotherapy that can be used at Greystones Health to address grief, loss, and bereavement include:
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Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This involves helping people identify and modify unhelpful thoughts, feelings, and behaviours surrounding the significant loss, as well as set goals for their recovery.
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Cognitive processing therapy (CPT): This is a type of cognitive behavioural treatment that focuses on helping grievers who are “stuck” in their thoughts about their loss. This is done by helping people confront their negative thoughts and memories related to their loss, and learn to correct the maladaptive, unrealistic, or problematic thoughts that may be maintaining distressing symptoms.
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): This involves helping the person to accept the negative feelings and circumstances surrounding their loss, so they can begin to develop healthier patterns of functioning and heal from the loss.
Treatment