Grief and Loss Counselling in Gananoque, ON.

My training with the complex facets of bereavement counselling is from McGill's School of Social Work. There, I learned the importance of validating a person's feelings and varying reactions in a non-judgemental way. My focus is to provide a caring, empathic response to encourage emotional healing. My theoretical framework is largely based on the work of Therese A. Rando's 6 stages: 1- Recognize loss, 2- React to loss, 3-Recollect and Re-Experience the lost relationship, 4-Relinquish and start a process of accomodation to the loss (not necessarily of accepting it) by working on 5- Readjust and 6- Reinvesting in life. I also use the Grief Recovery Handbook by James & Friedman.

Grief and loss are weaved into our lives in an intimate way. Grief is natural, normal, unique and universal. Grief touches us all at one point or another and is an inevitable part of being human. The experience of grief may be associated with a range of emotions, thoughts and behaviours. It’s important to remember that the journey of grief is not linear and there is no right way to feel. Therapy is a safe space where you can explore your grief. We will move at a pace that feels comfortable to you and I will check in to ensure that you feel safe and supported. Please contact me to schedule a free 15-minute consultation to see if we are a good fit.

Feelings of grief and loss are a normal part of life! People often feel self-conscious about expressing there feelings to the people in their lives who may had either 'moved on' or who don't know how best to help. I provide a safe place for people to verbalize the feelings of grief and/or disorientation they may be experiencing following the loss of either of loved one or the loss of stability through changes in employment , moving, or other major life transitions.

Grief is a complex emotion requiring a safe space in which to express the aspects of it that may feel uncomfortable and that often shift and change over time. The difficult thing about grief is often there are things left unexpressed. No one imagines that the conversation they have with a loved one will be the last time they talk. Loss can mean grieving the absence of a relationship that is different from what we had hoped. It can be the death or departure of someone, human or pet, who held an important place in our lives. It can also be the loss of an opportunity or the potential for happiness. As with all deep emotional responses, I provide a safe space to explore feelings and to mourn.

There are many forms and causes of grief and loss: death, miscarriage, loss of employment, loss of a dream or goal. Every loss is validated . We explore how you think about the loss, what you do to feel better. I can help you process loss and begin the grieving process. There are a myriad of emotions one can feel while grieving (pain, sadness, anger, guilt, frustration, relief). There is no right way to mourn a loss.

Loss and grief can have different meanings and natures. We immediately think of the death of a loved when referring to a loss, but a loss can also present itself differently to you: loss of your health, job, separation, divorce, retirement, etc. Everybody copes differently, there are no fixed steps or duration in the process. I am available to accompany you and support you during the transition and adjustment you are facing.

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.

Grief is like a gut-punch that seems to never subside. With a compassionate approach and gentle style, I help individuals navigate the complexities of grief, providing tools to cope with the pain of loss while honoring their unique experiences. Through empathetic listening and tailored therapeutic techniques, clients will learn to understand their grief, develop healthy coping strategies, and find a renewed sense of hope and meaning in life.

Many people have ideas about how grief should look or feel based on expectations from family, society, or the media. There are so many experiences and events that deserve be mourned, whether society recognizes them or not, and your feelings about the loss are valid. Your experience of grief is unique to you and there is no correct way to process your loss, which is why I work collaboratively with clients to explore meaning in the thoughts and feelings that emerge as you begin your healing journey. Book a free consultation to learn more about my approach and explore if we are a good fit.

Are you experiencing a loss of sense of self, job loss, separation/divorce, unexpected transitions, death/loss of a loved one (pets included), challenging life transitions, retirement, or unexpected change. Grief comes in all forms. Together we can improve quality of life by learning how to cope with change and bring back joy & humour in difficult times.

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.