Grief is a natural response to loss, yet it can feel isolating and confusing, especially when it doesn’t look or feel the way we expect. Loss can come in many forms, including the death of a loved one, changes in relationships, or major life transitions. Grief does not follow a linear timeline, and there is no “right” way to experience it.

Many people are familiar with the five stages of grief; denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. These stages are not meant to be experienced in a specific order, nor does everyone experience all of them. Instead, they offer a general framework for understanding some of the emotional responses that may arise during grief. It is common to move back and forth between stages or experience multiple emotions at once.

Grief can show up emotionally, physically, and cognitively. Individuals may experience sadness, anger, guilt, numbness, or longing, along with difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep or appetite, fatigue, or a sense of disconnection. These reactions are common and do not mean someone is grieving incorrectly. For many, grief comes in waves and can resurface unexpectedly, even after periods of feeling more stable.

Therapy can provide support in understanding and processing grief in a way that feels manageable. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help individuals identify thoughts that may intensify distress, such as self-blame or pressure to “move on,” and develop more balanced ways of responding to these thoughts. Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) focuses on strengths, existing coping skills, and small steps toward adjusting to life after loss, while honoring the impact of grief.

Working with a therapist offers a space to talk openly about loss without judgment or timelines. My role as a therapist is to provide a supportive and compassionate environment where grief can be explored at an individual pace. If you are navigating loss, therapy can help you better understand your grief, feel less alone in the process, and work toward integrating the loss into your life in a way that feels meaningful and sustainable.