Loss is an unavoidable part of life and can be “concrete,” such as a loved one passing or a serious illness, or imprecise — the abandonment of a goal or a failed expectation.

Grief is our complete reaction to a loss, and it occurs throughout our lives. Sometimes positive developments bring with them some grieving as we let go of the past and embrace the new.

Each person grieves uniquely and not just for the loss, but for its implications. The intensity and duration of grief is often determined by the severity of the loss.

Some symptoms of grieving include: sadness, depression, guilt, poor concentration, lack of sleep, weight loss or gain, and doubting or loss of religious faith. They are typically strongest in the first stages of the grieving process.

Grieving can become maladaptive, or harmful, when an individual stops moving through the grieving process. For example, an effort is made to keep a lost loved one alive, or an individual is not able to participate in daily activities.

Symptoms of maladaptive grieving include nightmares, loss of self-esteem, depression, anxiety, apathy, feelings of hopelessness, and guilt.

All the factors that hinder an individual’s ability to grieve are treatable.

In therapy, our intention is to provide you with a compassionate, empathic, and safe space to process the difficult emotions you are experiencing due to your grief and loss. We will support you as you process your reactions to your loss and move through your healing journey.