Grief and Loss

Providing counseling to adults experiencing grief and loss in Dallas and across the state of Texas

Grief and Loss

Grief is the profound sorrow and anguish experienced after a significant loss, including the death of a loved one. These feelings are not exclusive to death; they can arise following any significant loss including the loss of a pet, a relationship, a job, or a pregnancy.

When a significant loss occurs, grief can be an overwhelming, heavy burden. It can be challenging to know how to navigate these emotions. Although the loss may occur in a singular moment, the effects of the loss may persist for a lifetime.

 Symptoms of grief include:

 Anticipatory grief

In the event that a loss has not yet occurred, but is impending, we may experience anticipatory grief. Anticipatory grief is the grief that occurs before a loss. For many people, this may feel like the “beginning of the end”. Anticipatory grief may occur when a loved one has received a life-changing diagnosis such as Alzheimer’s Disease or a terminal illness, a life-threatening injury, or an impending divorce, among many other situations.  

 Coping with Grief

When grieving, it is important to continue to care for your body by getting exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate hydration. Sharing your grief with trusted loved ones or other people who are navigating grief can alleviate feelings of isolation. Seek support from family, friends, a support group, or your community.

While there is no “fix” to grief, therapy can aid in processing the loss, reducing feelings of guilt, and learning to cope with the intense emotions of grief. In the instances of traumatic grief or prolonged grief, EMDR therapy can be beneficial.