Each of us experiences loss of many kinds in their life. It’s natural and inevitable. But grief can be overwhelming, and when it is, you shouldn’t deal with it alone. Friends, family, and in many cases, a wonderful counselor can give you a place to work through your loss and integrate it into your future. 

What Is Grief and How Does it Work?

Grief is a complex mix of emotions—sadness, anger, numbness, guilt—that often show up unpredictably in different people. There are many reasons why you might be grieving, but ultimately, it’s about adjusting to a loss.

  • The death of a loved one

  • Divorce or a breakup

  • Losing a friend or a beloved pet

  • A job loss or retirement

  • Major life changes

The Five Stages of Grief Everyone Knows

You’ve likely heard about the five stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. While these can offer a helpful framework, grief isn’t linear. You might skip stages, revisit them, or feel several at once. 

  • Denial: Numbness or disbelief after a loss.

  • Anger: Frustration or blame directed at yourself, others, or the situation.

  • Bargaining: “What if” or “if only” thoughts as you try to regain control.

  • Depression: Deep sadness and feelings of emptiness.

  • Acceptance: Finding ways to live with the loss, even if it still hurts.

Grief doesn’t mean “moving on” or forgetting; it means learning to live with your loss and integrating it into your life. 

Our Approach to Grief Counseling

Talk Therapy for Emotional Processing

Sometimes, you just need someone to listen. We provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for you to share your thoughts and feelings.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps you identify unhelpful thought patterns and reframe them, making it easier to manage grief-related emotions like guilt or hopelessness.

Creative Therapies

Art, music, or journaling can help express emotions that are hard to put into words.

Mindfulness Practices

Mindfulness techniques teach you to stay grounded in the present, reducing the intensity of overwhelming emotions.

The Myths of “Moving On”

One of the biggest misconceptions about grieving is the idea that you need to “move on.” In reality, healing isn’t about forgetting or leaving the loss behind—it’s about finding a way to live with it.

  • “Time Heals All Wounds.” Time alone doesn’t heal—what you do with that time matters.

  • “You Shouldn’t Dwell on It.” Grieving is an essential process. Suppressing your feelings only delays healing, hurting yourself and others.

  • “You Have to Let Go.” You don’t have to let go of the love or memories; you learn how to cherish and carry them in a way that brings peace, not pain. 

Counseling helps you challenge these myths and work toward a healthy, meaningful integration of your loss into your life.

How Grief Impacts Relationships

It’s common for relationships to be strained when one or both individuals are going through the grieving process. Whether it’s miscommunications from stress, withdrawing from loved ones, increased irritability and negative outlook on life, all these things can deeply strain a relationship of any kind. 

Grief is hard. But withdrawing, locking down, and burying yourself in it isn’t the path forward. There’s no rush to move through the process, but working with a therapist can help you learn powerful ways to relate to your loss in healthier ways and find ways to integrate it into your life. 

Are You a Parent? Helping Your Child Cope with Grief

Grief affects children differently than adults. As a parent, it’s important to recognize the signs:

  • Behavioral Changes: Withdrawal, acting out, or difficulty at school.

  • Emotional Expressions: Unexplained anger, sadness, or clinginess.

  • Physical Complaints: Stomachaches, headaches, or trouble sleeping.

We work with families to help children process their emotions in age-appropriate ways, providing the support they need during this difficult time.

What to Expect From Online Grief Counseling

Virtual grief counseling provides the same care and support as in-person sessions, with the convenience of being in your own space. 

  • Confidential Video Sessions: Secure and private, allowing for honest conversations.

  • Flexible Scheduling: Choose appointments that fit your needs, whether weekly, biweekly, or monthly.

  • Personalized Support: Tailored techniques and strategies that resonate with your unique experience.

Not sure if online counseling works? Studies consistently prove that virtual therapy is as effective as in-person counseling for grief, offering flexibility without compromising quality.

Questions and Answers About Grief and Therapy

1. What is grief counseling?

Grief counseling helps you process and adapt to loss, providing tools to cope and rebuild your life.

2. Is grief counseling only for people who’ve lost a loved one?

No. Grief can stem from any significant loss, including a job, relationship, or life change.

3. How long does grief counseling take?

There’s no set timeline. Some people feel better after a few sessions, while others need longer-term support.

4. Can I grieve “wrong”?

No. Everyone grieves differently, and all feelings are valid. Counseling helps you navigate your unique process.

5. What if I feel worse after counseling?

Exploring your emotions can bring up pain, but it’s part of the healing process. Your counselor will support you through it.

6. Can virtual counseling really help?

Yes. Virtual grief counseling provides the same level of care and connection as in-person therapy.

7. Do I need to talk about my loss in detail?

Only if you feel comfortable. Counseling focuses on what’s most helpful for you.

8. What tools can grief counseling provide?

You’ll learn coping strategies, mindfulness techniques, and ways to honor your loss while moving forward.

9. Can grief counseling help my family?

Yes. We work with individuals and families to address grief’s impact and improve communication.

10. How do I start?

Contact us today to schedule your first session.

Don’t Deal With This Alone

Grief is hard, but healing is possible. Whether you’ve recently experienced a loss or are struggling with long-standing grief, we’re here to help you navigate this journey with compassion and care.

Take the first step today. Schedule your virtual grief counseling session now.

EXODUS Difference
  • Client-centered approach

  • Personalized therapy

  • Licensed professionals

  • Flexible online sessions

Benefits for You
  • Treatment done with you, not to you

  • Adapted sessions for your situation

  • Qualified and effective care

  • Increased accessibility and comfort