Therapy for Grief & Loss

Grief and loss are deeply personal experiences that can affect every aspect of life, from our emotional well-being to relationships and daily routines. Whether it's the death of a loved one, the end of a significant relationship, infertility or pregnancy loss, or a major life change, the pain of loss can feel overwhelming and isolating. Therapy offers a compassionate space to process the complexity of these emotions and develop healthy ways to cope with these feelings. At Ever Forward Therapy, each therapist brings unique expertise in assisting clients through grief and loss and are here to support individuals on their journey toward healing and peace.​​

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Types of Grief 

Individuals can experience grief in a variety of ways, each of which brings unique emotions and complexities. It is important to remember that there is no "right" way to grieve. The following are examples of ways in which grief can manifest. 

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Typical or Uncomplicated Grief

Typical or Uncomplicated grief (also referred to as common grief or "normal" grief) is grief that the majority of people experience after loss. It begins soon after a loss and symptoms ease over time. Individuals are eventually able to return to tasks of daily life even if it is difficult to do so. Uncomplicated grief might include a variety of emotions including sadness, distress, anger, anxiety, denial, feelings of guilt, emotional numbness, sleep disturbances, fatigue and appetite changes. Symptoms of normal grief occur less often and less intensely over time, and resolve on different timelines for each person, typically within 6 months to 2 years after loss. 

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Complicated Grief

Complicated grief is a recognized mental health condition involving prolonged and intense grief that makes healing difficult. While typical grief generally eases over time, individuals suffering with complicated grief might find that their symptoms extend longer than expected or even intensify over time. In addition to symptoms of typical grief, those suffering from complicated grief might struggle to participate in their normal routines, isolate themselves from others, have increased feelings of hopelessness, depressive symptoms and in some cases suicidal ideation. Those with a history of depression, mood disorders and PTSD may be at higher risk for complicated grief, as well as those suffering a traumatic or sudden loss. Complicated grief can contribute to long-term difficulties with daily living, work and relationships if left untreated. 

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Anticipatory Grief

Anticipatory grief is often experienced when an individual is expecting a future loss. An individual may experience the very real symptoms of grief as they prepare for a loss they will experience in the future. Anticipatory grief commonly occurs after receiving a terminal diagnosis for oneself or a loved one, but it can also occur in the context of a loss not related to death. For  example, it may occur when going through the process of divorce, after receiving a diagnosis of a progressive or chronic illness, while anticipating a major medical procedure such as mastectomy or organ transplant,  preparing for a major life change such as a child moving away for college, or when experiencing the decline or aging of a loved one or pet. 

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Disenfranchised Grief 

Disenfranchised grief is often called hidden grief. It occurs when a loss is not societally acknowledged or accepted. Oftentimes, these losses are minimized or not acknowledged by others, which can feel isolating and make the experience of grief particularly difficult to cope with. Disenfranchised grief is often experienced by those experiencing infertility, miscarriage or pregnancy loss, the loss of a pet, the loss of a loved one to suicide or addiction, or a non-death related loss such as loss of property, possessions or independence. 

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