Bereavement & Loss
Bereavement is the experience of losing someone significant in your life, but loss can take many forms. While the death of a loved one is often the most profound, other types of loss can also bring deep grief and emotional pain. These may include:
Relationship breakdowns: divorce, separation, or the ending of a long-term friendship
Loss of a child: miscarriage, stillbirth, or estrangement
Health or physical ability: chronic illness, injury, or disability
Life changes: retirement, moving away, or loss of independence
Pet loss: the death of a beloved animal companion
Grief is personal—there is no “right” way to experience it. Emotions can fluctuate from moment to moment, and the journey through loss can feel confusing and overwhelming. I often hear it described like “a mess in my head”.
Grief can affect every aspect of your wellbeing. You may notice changes in your emotions, body, thoughts, and relationships. Common experiences include:
Emotional Symptoms
Sadness, tearfulness, or emotional heaviness
Anger, frustration, or irritability
Guilt, regret, or self-blame
Anxiety or fear about the future
Numbness or emotional detachment
Loneliness or isolation
Physical Symptoms
Fatigue or low energy
Trouble sleeping or vivid dreams
Changes in appetite or weight
Headaches, aches, or muscle tension
Cognitive Symptoms
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Intrusive thoughts or memories
A sense of disbelief or shock
Feeling confused or “foggy”
These responses are natural, but if they start to feel overwhelming, counselling can provide a safe place to work through them at your own pace.
At Reflect & Be, I offer one-to-one counselling sessions tailored to your individual experience of loss. My approach is warm, gentle, and client-centred, giving you space to:
Talk openly about your grief without judgment or pressure
Understand and make sense of your emotions
Develop coping strategies for day-to-day life
Explore complex feelings such as guilt, anger, or anxiety
Honour your loved ones or relationships in a meaningful way
Adjust to life’s changes at a pace that feels right for you
I understand that reaching out for support can feel daunting, especially when you’re grieving. In our sessions, you can expect:
A calm, confidential space where you are free to be yourself
Time just for you—to talk, reflect, and feel heard without interruption
Gentle guidance rather than answers or advice—you set the pace
Empathy and understanding from someone trained to support you through difficult emotions
There’s no agenda or timetable for your grief. Some sessions may feel emotional, others lighter—both are normal. Together, we work towards helping you feel more grounded and supported as you navigate your loss.
Reaching out can feel like the hardest part, but it’s also the first step toward healing. Counselling won’t take away your grief, but it can help you find ways to live alongside it with compassion and understanding.
Contact me to arrange a FREE 15 minute introductory call and begin your journey towards support.