Grief

Adam Barboff
Jul 29
3 min read

Navigating Grief: Healing After Loss

Grief is a natural response to losing someone or something meaningful. Whether it’s the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, a major life transition, or even the loss of health or a job—grief can shake us to our core. It impacts not just our emotions, but also our physical health, thoughts, behaviors, and sense of identity.

At our practice, we understand how deeply personal grief is. No two people grieve in the same way. And while there’s no “right” way to mourn, you don’t have to go through it alone.

What Is Grief?

Grief is the emotional suffering we feel after a significant loss. It can cause feelings of sadness, anger, guilt, confusion, and even numbness. For many, grief also brings physical symptoms such as fatigue, stomach pain, changes in sleep patterns, or headaches¹ ².

Common experiences during grief may include:

Shock, disbelief, or denial
Deep sadness or crying spells
Difficulty concentrating
Withdrawing from others
Irritability or mood swings
Longing or yearning for the lost person or thing

These responses are all part of the body and mind’s way of trying to process and adapt to a significant change.

The Many Faces of Grief

While many people associate grief with the death of a loved one, it can stem from various life experiences, such as:

Divorce or separation
Miscarriage or infertility
Loss of a pet
Serious illness or disability
Moving or relocation
Substance use recovery (letting go of people, routines, or identity)

It’s important to recognize that all types of grief are valid, and all deserve attention and care².

How Long Does Grief Last?

There’s no timeline for grief. Some people begin to feel better in a few weeks or months, while others may struggle for much longer. The process is not linear—it often comes in waves, and it’s normal to have ups and downs.

According to the American Psychological Association, grief typically lessens over time, but for some, it can evolve into a more persistent condition known as Prolonged Grief Disorder³. If intense sadness or disruption lasts for a year or more and interferes with daily life, professional support can make a significant difference.

How Can Counseling Help?

Talking with a therapist can be incredibly helpful in navigating grief, especially when:

You feel stuck or unable to move forward
You're experiencing guilt, anger, or trauma related to the loss
The grief is affecting your work, relationships, or health
You are also dealing with anxiety, depression, or substance use

Grief counseling provides a safe, nonjudgmental space to express your emotions, honor your loss, and explore new ways of coping and finding meaning.

At our practice, we offer supportive therapy for individuals navigating grief in all its forms. We recognize that grief often intertwines with other life challenges, and we tailor our approach to your unique experience.

You Don't Have to Grieve Alone

Grief can feel incredibly isolating, but you don’t have to carry it by yourself. Whether you’ve experienced a recent loss or are dealing with unresolved grief from the past, you deserve support, compassion, and space to heal.

If you or someone you love is struggling with grief, reach out. We’re here to help you process your loss and move toward healing—one step at a time.