Grief Counseling
Feel like grief is consuming you?
Are you feeling overwhelmed by sadness after losing a loved one or experiencing a significant life change? Do you find it hard to cope with the emptiness left behind by a loss, and are you wondering if you will ever feel “normal” again? Many individuals grappling with grief experience a whirlwind of emotions, including anger, guilt, and confusion. The truth is, navigating grief can be one of the hardest journeys we face.
When a significant loss occurs—whether it’s the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or a major life transition—it can leave you feeling disoriented and alone. You may be questioning how to move forward or why you feel stuck in your pain. But it’s important to recognize that these feelings are part of the healing process.
With the help of counseling, you can learn how to reconnect with yourself and find a path toward healing.
Most People Experience Grief at Some Point in Their Lives
It’s essential to know that grief is a natural response to loss. Most people encounter some form of grief throughout their lives, and it’s completely normal to feel the intense emotions that accompany it. According to the American Psychological Association, 10% of those who experience the death of a loved one will develop complicated grief, which may require professional support.
Grief is not linear; it can ebb and flow, presenting itself in waves. You might find yourself feeling okay one day and then overwhelmed the next. This unpredictability is common and can leave you feeling isolated. Understanding that you are not alone in your struggle can be reassuring. Many individuals face similar challenges when navigating their grief journeys.
The good news, however, is that with the help of a compassionate, experienced therapist, you can learn to navigate the complexities of grief and rediscover a sense of peace and fulfillment in your life.
How Therapy Can Help Us Heal
At our group practice, we offer a safe space to explore your feelings, share your experiences, and begin the healing process. Our team, led by grief expert Marilee Sonnen, provides specialized support for those navigating the difficult terrain of loss. Together, we strive to create an environment where you can openly express your emotions and work through the challenges you are facing.
Understanding Our Grief Journey
During our sessions, we will discuss your grief journey in detail. Together, we will explore your history and the unique factors contributing to your grief. Understanding the context of your loss can help us make sense of your emotions and begin to process them in a healthy way.
We utilize evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This modality helps us identify and challenge negative thought patterns related to grief, fostering a more positive outlook.
Complicated Grief Therapy: This approach specifically addresses prolonged grief reactions and helps us work through the complexities of our feelings.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT emphasizes acceptance of painful emotions while encouraging us to commit to actions aligned with our values, facilitating a sense of purpose as we navigate our grief.
In addition to these traditional therapeutic approaches, we also incorporate holistic practices like mindfulness, yoga, and craniosacral therapy into our sessions. These techniques can help us reconnect with our bodies, release pent-up emotions, and cultivate a greater sense of calm and grounding amidst the emotional turmoil.
What to Expect in Grief Therapy
In our sessions, we will encourage you to share your story at your own pace. This is a space for you to explore the myriad emotions that come with grief, whether it’s anger, sadness, guilt, or even moments of joy. Together, we will work to identify coping strategies that resonate with you, providing you with tools to manage the emotional challenges of grief in your daily life.
Marilee and our dedicated team will also guide you in creating rituals or practices that honor your loved one’s memory. These practices can foster a continued connection, allowing you to feel supported while also moving forward with your life.
Having worked with clients navigating grief for many years, Marilee brings a wealth of experience and compassion to the therapeutic process. She has seen individuals transform their pain into growth and find a renewed sense of purpose.
Addressing Common Concerns
What if I feel uncomfortable opening up about my grief?
It’s completely normal to feel apprehensive about sharing our feelings, especially when it comes to something as personal as grief. We create a non-judgmental and safe environment where you can share at your own pace. There’s no pressure to discuss anything you’re not ready to address, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
How long will it take for me to feel better?
Grief is a deeply personal journey, and there’s no set timeline for healing. Each person processes grief differently, and the journey can vary greatly depending on our experiences and support systems. Together, we will work at a pace that feels right for you, focusing on gradual healing and self-compassion.
What if I worry that I will never feel happy again?
Many people share this concern when dealing with grief. It’s important to remember that feeling happiness again is possible. Therapy can help us develop coping strategies and emotional tools to process our grief while allowing space for joy and fulfillment to return to our lives.
Evidence of Healing
While we can’t promise a specific outcome, we have witnessed many clients find healing through the therapeutic process. Many individuals have shared their experiences of feeling lighter, more hopeful, and more connected to life after engaging in therapy. We invite you to explore testimonials from past clients who have navigated their grief journeys with our support.
Our Unique Approach to Grief Therapy
What sets us apart as a group practice is our collaborative and holistic approach to grief. Led by Marilee Sonnen, our grief expert, we blend traditional therapeutic modalities with complementary practices that promote healing on multiple levels—emotional, physical, and spiritual. This integrative approach allows us to explore grief in a way that resonates deeply with you.
By creating a safe and supportive environment, we empower clients to reclaim their lives while honoring their memories. We believe that with the right support and tools, anyone can navigate the storm of grief and emerge stronger on the other side.
Take the First Step Toward Healing
If you’re ready to start your healing journey, we invite you to schedule a free 15-minute consultation with us today. This low-risk opportunity allows you to ask questions, discuss your concerns, and get a sense of how we can work together.
Remember, you don’t have to navigate your grief alone. With compassionate support from Marilee and our dedicated team, we can find hope, healing, and a renewed sense of purpose. Explore additional resources on our blog, including tips for coping with grief and upcoming workshops designed to support you through this challenging time.
Grief Specialist
Marilee Sonnen
Grief Therapy in Ashburn, VA
44075 Pipeline Plaza, #300
Ashburn, VA 20147