Bereavement and grief aren’t light-hearted topics. Bereavement refers to the process of recovering from the death of a loved one, and grief is a reaction for any form of loss. Both encompass a wide range of emotions such as fear, anger and deep, deep sadness.
The process of adapting to a loss can dramatically change from person to person, depending on his or her background, beliefs, relationship to the person who’s passed, and other factors.
Common symptoms of grief can be physical, emotional or social.
A few common symptoms in these categories are:
Physical
- Crying and sighing
- Headaches
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty sleeping
- Weakness
- Fatigue
Emotional
- Feelings of sadness and yearning
- Feelings of worry or anger
- Feelings of frustration or guilt
Social
- Feeling detached from others
- Self-isolation from social contact
- Behaving in ways that are not normal for you
Every grieving experience is different. A person may be able to continue their day-to-day routine after one loss, yet not be able to get out of bed after the loss of someone else. Whatever your personal symptoms are, grief and bereavement counseling have been proven to help.
If you are experiencing grief-related thoughts, behaviors, or feelings that are distressing, please contact us today for a free consultation
At New Leaf Counseling & Wellness, we understand that grief and loss are deeply personal experiences that can feel overwhelming and isolating. Whether you’re mourning the loss of a loved one, a significant relationship, or navigating other life changes, our compassionate therapists are here to support you. Our grief and loss therapy services provide a safe and empathetic space to process your emotions, heal at your own pace, and find a way forward. Serving individuals and families in Schaumburg and Naperville, we are dedicated to helping you through this difficult time with care, understanding, and professional guidance.
What to Expect in Grief and Loss Therapy
When you sign up for grief and loss therapy at New Leaf Counseling & Wellness, you can expect a supportive and compassionate environment designed to help you navigate your unique journey through grief. Our therapists work closely with you to create a personalized plan tailored to your individual needs, whether you’re facing the loss of a loved one, a significant life change, or an anticipated loss. We aim to provide a space where you can express your feelings without judgment and learn healthy ways to cope and heal.
Here’s what you can expect from grief and loss therapy at New Leaf:
- A dedicated therapist who will work with you consistently from session to session, building trust and understanding.
- Flexible session lengths, typically lasting 50-60 minutes, depending on your needs and preferences.
- In-person or remote visits, offering the option to meet at our Schaumburg or Naperville locations or through secure virtual therapy sessions.
- A safe, non-judgmental environment where you are encouraged to express your emotions and work through your grief at your own pace.
- Practical tools and coping strategies to help you manage grief in your daily life.
- A collaborative approach, ensuring your therapy experience is tailored to your goals and the pace of your healing journey.
Our goal is to support you every step of the way, offering compassionate care and guidance as you move through the process of healing.
When Should I seek Grief and Loss Therapy?
Deciding when to seek grief and loss therapy can be a deeply personal decision, as everyone experiences grief differently. There is no simple timeline or one-size-fits-all answer. However, if you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward, it may be time to consider seeking professional support. Asking yourself a few key questions can help you determine if grief and loss therapy is right for you:
- Am I struggling to manage daily responsibilities? If grief is making it hard to get through work, school, or routine tasks, therapy can provide guidance on coping strategies.
- Is my grief affecting my relationships? If the loss of a parent, partner, or close family member or friend is causing isolation, conflict, or difficulty connecting with others, therapy can help you work through those emotions.
- Do I feel stuck in my grief? If it has been months or even years since the loss, and you feel like you’re not healing or making progress, a therapist can help you explore what might be holding you back.
- Am I turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms? If you’re using substances, food, or other behaviors to numb your pain, grief therapy can help you find healthier ways to process your emotions.
- Is my grief accompanied by intense emotions, like anger, guilt, or hopelessness? A therapist can offer support in processing these feelings and developing a path toward healing.
Grief can be complex and long-lasting, but you don’t have to go through it alone. If any of these questions resonate with you, grief and loss therapy at New Leaf Counseling may be a helpful step in your healing process.
Benefits of Grief and Loss Therapy
Grief and loss therapy offers a safe and supportive space to navigate the complex emotions that often accompany loss. While everyone’s healing journey is unique, many people find therapy to be a valuable resource in helping them understand and process their grief. Though there are no guarantees, grief and loss therapy can provide a variety of potential benefits that may help you move forward in your healing process:
- Emotional support from a compassionate, non-judgmental therapist who listens and helps you explore your feelings.
- Personalized coping strategies to manage the pain, sadness, or anxiety that may arise during your grief journey.
- Improved understanding of grief and how it impacts your emotional, physical, and mental well-being.
- Help in rebuilding relationships that may be strained due to grief, fostering deeper connections with loved ones.
- A safe space to remember and honor your loss, while also learning how to move forward with meaning and purpose.
By working with a skilled therapist, you may discover new ways to cope and begin finding a path toward healing and renewal.
Tackle Loss Today with Grief and Loss Therapy
Questions About Grief and Loss Therapy?
What type of therapy is best for grief?
The best type of therapy for grief depends on the individual and their unique needs. Common approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps people reframe negative thought patterns, and Grief Counseling, which focuses specifically on processing the emotions of loss. Ultimately, the most effective therapy is one that feels supportive and helps you navigate your grief in a healthy way.
Is a grief counselor the same as a therapist?
A grief counselor is often a licensed therapist with specialized training in helping individuals process grief and loss. While all therapists are qualified to provide emotional support, grief counselors focus specifically on the complexities of mourning and loss. At New Leaf Counseling, our therapists have the experience and training to support you through grief, providing a safe space to explore your feelings and develop strategies for healing.
What is involved in loss counseling?
Loss counseling involves providing emotional support, guidance, and coping strategies to help individuals process and navigate the grief associated with a significant loss. Sessions typically involve talking through your experiences, exploring feelings of sadness, anger, or confusion, and developing healthy ways to cope with these emotions. A therapist may also guide you through various exercises to help you honor your loss while gradually finding a way forward.
How long does grief and loss therapy take?
The length of grief and loss therapy varies depending on the individual and the nature of their loss. Some people may find relief after just a few sessions, while others may benefit from ongoing support over several months or even longer. Healing from grief is a highly personal process, and there’s no set timeline. Therapy is designed to move at your pace, allowing you to address your emotions and progress as you feel ready.
Can grief therapy help with sudden or traumatic loss?
Yes, grief therapy can be especially helpful for those who have experienced a sudden or traumatic loss, such as the unexpected death of a loved one or a traumatic event. A therapist can help you process the shock and intense emotions that often accompany these types of losses, providing a safe space to work through trauma-related grief and offering coping strategies tailored to your experience.
Is it normal to still need grief therapy years after a loss?
Yes, it is completely normal to seek grief therapy even years after a loss. Grief can resurface or feel overwhelming long after the initial event, especially during significant life milestones or anniversaries. Therapy can help you work through any unresolved feelings, provide tools for managing your emotions, and offer a renewed sense of support when you need it most.
