Grief Counselling Toronto

Utilizing Evidence-Based therapeutic approaches, we aim to provide effective psychotherapy interventions. We practice and draw upon various therapeutic modalities to help you with the challenges that you may be facing.

We offer virtual therapy across Ontario and in-person appointments at Scarborough & Mississauga.

Stages of Grief

Each year, 1 in 5 Canadians report experiencing mental health struggles. That is an astonishing 7.65 Million Canadians per year! At some point in life, we all need a support system there for us. Therapy can be an outlet for you to safely explore your feelings as well as develop healthy coping skills to navigate your life.

Anger and Denial

When grieving, especially after the loss of a family member or friend, it's normal to experience overwhelming anger and denial. Denial serves as a defence mechanism, temporarily escaping the painful reality, while anger often reflects the intense pain beneath. We understand that it may seem like a dark tunnel with no end, but you're not alone. Therapists can help you navigate these tough emotions, offering guidance to help you cope with grief during this difficult time. By shedding light on the causes of your anger and denial, therapists can support you in gradually moving towards a healthier state of mind.

Bargaining

As the pain of loss persists, it's common to find yourself bargaining, wishing you could have done things differently to prevent the outcome. Bargaining is a natural part of the grieving process, serving as an attempt to regain control over the uncontrollable situation. This stage can entangle you in a web of 'what if' scenarios. Mental health professionals are here to help untangle these thoughts, allowing you to face your grief without guilt or regret. They aim to guide you in processing these feelings, helping you understand and accept the reality of your loss.

Depression

Depression during grief can feel like a thick fog that's impossible to see through. Depression in grief is not a sign of mental illness; it is a natural reaction to a significant loss, manifesting as intense sadness and disinterest in daily activities. Remember, it's okay not to be okay, and you don't have to face this mist alone. Therapists are equipped to walk you through this fog, providing a comforting presence while helping you build resilience. They strive to cultivate a safe environment for you to express your feelings freely and ultimately foster a path of healing.

Acceptance

Acceptance doesn't mean forgetting or moving on; it's about acknowledging and learning to live with your loss. It may seem difficult, but it is a stage within reach. Therapists can help you navigate this phase, aiding you in finding a new sense of normalcy and peace. They work towards empowering you to embrace life again, fostering strength, and instilling hope.

Therapy and Counselling For Grief and Bereavement

Every individual is unique and the same issue may present differently with different individuals. Therefore, the intervention has to be tailored to your own unique needs. We have experience in numerous evidence based modalities. Whether to use a particular modality or not, can be mutually decided during the sessions. We believe in providing culturally sensitive, person centered, recovery oriented, and trauma informed services.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

When you're grappling with grief, your thoughts can seem like a whirlpool pulling you deeper into your sorrow. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) could be your lifeline. This therapeutic approach focuses on understanding and changing unhelpful thought patterns that fuel feelings of grief. Therapists can help you identify and reframe these patterns, fostering healthier coping strategies for your loss. CBT might be able to illuminate your path through grief, aiding in your journey toward healing and emotional well-being.

Narrative Therapy

Each of us carries a unique story of loss, and understanding that narrative can help us find our way forward. Narrative Therapy allows you to do just that. This approach is centred on the belief that you're the author of your own life. Therapists can help you explore and rewrite your grief story, shedding new, empowering light on your loss experience. Through Narrative Therapy, you can rewrite the chapters of your grief into a narrative of resilience and growth.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Facing the full impact of a loss can feel like an insurmountable task, but Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can guide you through it. This therapy modality encourages you to embrace your grief, instead of avoiding it. Therapists can support you in accepting your emotions and committing to actions that align with your personal values. ACT aims to increase psychological flexibility, helping you to adapt to your new normal after a loss, embracing life with renewed purpose and meaning.

Frequently Asked Questions About Anxiety Treatment

If you have any additional questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

How long should I wait before going to grief therapy?

Every person's grief journey is unique, so there's no set time frame to start therapy. If your feelings of loss are overwhelming or interfering with your daily life, consider grief therapy sooner rather than later. We will be here for you whenever you feel ready to explore this support.

When does grief become unhealthy?

Grief can become unhealthy when it becomes complicated grief or prolonged grief disorder, marked by intense sorrow and fixation on the loss, and difficulty in recovering a sense of normalcy over an extended period. If you're feeling stuck in your grief, unable to move forward, or if your grief is leading to self-isolation, it might be time to seek professional help. We may be able to provide the guidance needed to navigate these complex feelings.

When should I seek professional help for grief and bereavement?

If your grief is making it difficult to function in daily life or if you find yourself unable to experience moments of relief from your sorrow, it may be time to seek professional help. There's no right or wrong time to reach out for support. Therapists are always here, ready to help you navigate through your journey of grief when you're ready.