Grief Therapy
Grief doesn’t follow a schedule. It can arrive suddenly or build slowly, showing up in ways you might not expect — a wave of sadness in the middle of the day, irritability with people you care about, sleepless nights, or a sense of emptiness you can’t shake. Losing someone, whether to death, separation, or life changes, can leave a mark that feels impossible to navigate alone.
At Whiteboard Counselling in Oakville, Ontario, we understand how disorienting grief can feel. Our grief therapyoffers a space to process loss at your own pace, explore the emotions and thoughts that arise, and find ways to live with grief without being consumed by it. This isn’t about “getting over it” or forgetting — it’s about learning to carry your loss while rediscovering life and meaning.
Grief is rarely straightforward. It can feel like waves of emotion, shifting from sadness to anger to guilt to relief, often all in the same day. Many people expect themselves to move through it quickly, but grief doesn’t follow rules, and trying to force it can make things harder.
In therapy, we help you slow down and notice your experience. You’ll have space to explore what the loss means to you, how it has changed your relationships or routines, and what supports you need to move forward. We also recognize that grief often interacts with other challenges, like anxiety or depression, which can intensify feelings of overwhelm. Addressing these alongside grief can help restore balance and perspective.
Understanding Grief
The Process Of Therapy
Grief therapy at Whiteboard Counselling isn’t about quick fixes or telling you how you “should” feel. Using Narrative Therapy and reflective approaches, we explore the story of your loss — how it has shaped your life and identity, and how you can integrate it into your ongoing story.
Therapy can help you identify patterns that keep grief heavy or stuck, such as avoidance, self-blame, or isolation. Together, we work on ways to honor your emotions, connect with your own strength, and take steps toward living a meaningful life while still holding your memories and feelings close. For some, individual therapy provides space to explore grief privately, while others may benefit from couples or family counselling to navigate shared loss and support each other through it.
Grief is not something you get past; it’s something you learn to live with. Through therapy, you can start to notice small moments of relief, clarity, or joy again — without feeling guilty for feeling them. You’ll discover ways to honor your loss, take care of yourself, and gradually rebuild routines and connections that bring meaning back into your life.
You may also find that exploring related areas, such as stress management or self-esteem therapy, can strengthen resilience and help you navigate the emotional ups and downs more effectively.
Finding Your Way Forward
Beginning Therapy
There is no “right time” to start grief therapy — it’s about when you’re ready to be supported in navigating your feelings and reclaiming your life. Sessions are available in person at our Oakville office or online across Ontario, offering a safe space to reflect, feel, and grow at your own pace.
You can book a session or reach out for a free consultation. Together, we’ll explore your loss, help you process your emotions, and support you in finding meaning and strength as you move forward.