7 August 2023

Losing someone can feel like your world's turned upside down but having someone to guide you can make navigating this difficult time that little bit easier. But how do you find the right person to help you? Here’s a guide on how to find the right grief counsellor for you.

Understanding Grief and Its Impact

Defining Grief

Grief is the emotional response to loss. It's a universal human experience, yet it’s profoundly personal and unique to each individual. It can be triggered by various forms of loss, including the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or the loss of health or employment.

The Effects of Grief

The effects of grief can be profound and far-reaching, touching every aspect of life. It can lead to a host of emotional, psychological, and physical symptoms, including sadness, anger, guilt, fatigue, and changes in sleep or appetite. But remember, grief isn’t a sign of weakness—it's simply part of being human.

The Role of a Grief Counsellor

The Importance of Grief Counselling

Grief counselling plays an essential role in helping people navigate the complexities of loss. The journey through grief can be isolating, but you don't have to walk it alone. A grief counsellor is there to support, guide, and provide tools to cope.

How Grief Counselling Helps

Grief counselling provides a safe space for expressing feelings, exploring thoughts, and finding a path forward. It promotes healing by helping you understand your grief, make sense of your loss, and eventually find a way to accommodate the loss into your life.

What to Look for in a Grief Counsellor

Credentials and Experience

When looking for a grief counsellor, start with their credentials and experience. Make sure they have appropriate qualifications and special training in grief counselling. Look for professionals who are members of relevant professional bodies.

Personality and Approach

A successful counselling relationship is based on trust and comfort so the counsellor's personality and approach matter a lot. Look for someone empathetic, compassionate, and respectful—someone who aligns with your values and makes you feel heard.

Availability and Location

Consider the counsellor's availability and location. Do their hours match your schedule? Is their location convenient for you? Nowadays, online counselling has made access easier than ever before.

Steps to Finding the Right Grief Counsellor

Step 1: Assess Your Needs

Begin by assessing your specific needs.

● Are you looking for one-on-one counselling or a support group?
● Do you prefer a particular approach, like cognitive-behavioural therapy or art therapy?
● What are your goals for counselling?

Step 2: Research Options

Next, research your options. You can even ask for recommendations from trusted friends or family. Online resources like psychology websites and counselling directories can also be helpful.

Step 3: Consult Initial Sessions

Take advantage of initial consultations to get a feel for the counsellor. These sessions can give you a sense of their style and approach and help you decide if they are a good fit.

Step 4: Make Your Decision

Finally, make your decision. Remember, it's okay to try a few different counsellors before finding the right one. The key is to find someone you feel comfortable with and who can support you in your journey through grief.

Making the Most of Your Grief Counselling Sessions

Building Trust

Building trust with your counsellor is vital for effective counselling. This trust allows you to open up about your feelings and experiences, nurturing a deep and therapeutic relationship.

Being Open and Honest

Be open and honest with your counsellor. They're there to support you, and the more they know about your experiences and feelings, the better they can help you navigate your grief.

Patience and Perseverance

Remember, navigating grief takes time. Be patient with yourself and the process. Continue to attend sessions and engage with your counsellor, even when it feels challenging.

Online Grief Counselling: A Modern Alternative

The Benefits of Online Counselling

Online counselling can offer the advantage of convenience, accessibility, and sometimes affordability. It's especially useful for those who may have mobility issues, live in remote areas, or simply prefer the comfort of their own home.

Choosing the Right Online Counsellor

Choosing an online counsellor involves the same factors as choosing an in-person counsellor—credentials, experience, approach, and fit. Plus, ensure they provide a secure and private platform for the sessions.

Conclusion

Navigating the path of grief can be challenging, but finding the right grief counsellor can make the journey less daunting. Remember, it's okay to ask for help, and it's okay to take your time finding the right support. You're not alone in your journey.

I offer an optional FREE Initial 30-minute telephone consultation to allow you to get a sense of what I am like and see whether you think I am someone you feel comfortable talking to about your issues. You can get in touch with me via the contact form below, by email at info@judyfieldcounselling.com or by calling 07855 059 964.

FAQs

What is the difference between grief counselling and therapy?
Grief counselling focuses on helping individuals cope with grief following a loss. Therapy, on the other hand, addresses chronic, long-term psychological issues.

When is the right time to engage in bereavement counselling?
The right time to engage in bereavement or grief counselling is highly personal and depends on individual circumstances and readiness. While some may benefit from counselling a few months after a loss, letting the grieving process unfold naturally is essential. Remember, grief is a process to be experienced, not a problem to be solved.

How long should I attend grief counselling?
The duration of grief counselling varies for everyone, depending on their individual needs, coping skills, and the nature of the loss.

Is it normal to feel worse after a counselling session?
Sometimes, exploring grief can stir up intense emotions, making you feel worse initially. But this is a normal part of the process and should improve over time.

Is online grief counselling as effective as in-person sessions?
Yes, research shows that online counselling can be just as effective as in-person sessions. The key is to find a method that works best for you.

Is it okay to switch counsellors if I feel the current one isn't the right fit?
Absolutely. It's essential to have a counsellor with whom you feel comfortable and connected. If you're not feeling it, it's okay to look for someone else.

Ready to take that first step? Get in touch with me today via the contact form below, by email at info@judyfieldcounselling.com or by calling 07855 059 964.