Grief and Loss

Grief and Loss Counseling in New Jersey

Grief is a natural response to losing someone or something that holds great significance in your life. However, you don’t have to go through it alone. Engaging in grief therapy can help you navigate this challenging journey in a meaningful way.

In this article, we will help you understand grief and loss therapy by outlining:

• What grief and loss are
• The five stages of grief
• Different types of grief therapy and how they are used
• What to expect during the grief process

If you’re ready to get started with grief and loss counseling in New Jersey, we can help. Contact New Jersey Behavioral Health Center today to explore your treatment options.

Understanding Loss and Grief

Loss can take many forms. It may involve the passing of someone dear or the end of a special relationship, like a divorce. Some losses can lead to lasting changes in one’s role, identity, health, or community, such as through immigration.

Losing a beloved pet or a childhood residence can cause significant heartache. Unforeseen losses, such as miscarriage or stillbirth, can represent the loss of a future and the family you hoped for. Below are the different forms of grief.

Ambiguous Losses

Various types of losses can be difficult to articulate. The term “ambiguous loss,” created by Pauline Boss, refers to losses that are hard to define. They do not have a clear absence or presence.

Some losses happen slowly and take a long time, like caring for someone with dementia or a terminal illness. In contrast, some losses can be abrupt, leaving no opportunity for a farewell. Even when a loss is expected, its impact can still be deeply painful or traumatic.

Bereavement

Some losses happen slowly and take a long time, like caring for someone with dementia or a terminal illness. In contrast, some losses can be abrupt, leaving no opportunity for a farewell. Even when a loss is expected, its impact can still be deeply painful or traumatic.

Prolonged Grief

Grief can be very disruptive and painful for everyone. Usually, the strongest feelings of grief will fade or change over time. This happens as you work through your emotions, get support, and learn to adjust or move on.

Sometimes, grief can become complicated. It may last longer than expected. Strong feelings can persist without relief. You might also struggle to accept the loss.

In these situations, it can be hard to cope. If you feel stuck or are avoiding your grief, it is a good idea to seek help from a professional.

What are the Stages of Grief?

You may have heard that there is no one “right way” to grieve. Each person has their own journey when dealing with loss. You might also be familiar with the five stages of grief introduced by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kubler-Ross. So, what is the truth?

What could explain the enduring popularity of the stages of grief model as a framework?

During difficult times, we seek clarity and comfort, especially when facing loss. While it’s normal to want a clear understanding of grief, remember that no one model works for everyone.

Grief is a personal process involving physical and emotional responses. Since the five stages of grief were introduced, many theories have come up. Each theory offers different insights that may connect with people in unique ways.

Therapy for Grief and Loss in Hillsborough, NJ

Grief therapy is a specialized form of treatment aimed at assisting individuals in navigating the different phases of grief. It promotes the use of helpful coping skills. These skills can help them manage their feelings and deal with their loss.

Grief and loss therapy offers those who are grieving a chance to express their emotions and thoughts to help alleviate their pain.

Is Grief and Loss Therapy Right for You?

The level of grief can differ from person to person. Many people handle their losses on their own. However, some may experience complicated grief. This type of grief lasts a long time and can turn into feelings of guilt and depression.

Below are several signs and symptoms that may suggest the need for grief therapy.

• Constant, unending thoughts about loss.
• Avoiding friends and family.
• Intense feelings of sadness and emotional pain.
• Longing to see the loved one you lost.
• Feeling hopeless or depressed.
• Feeling a loss of identity.
• Finding no desire to continue on with life.
• Feeling lost or cut off from the world.

What You Can Expect from Grief Therapy in New Jersey

In grief counseling sessions, people get support from a counselor or therapist to cope with their loss. This type of counseling can happen in one-on-one sessions or family therapy. It may also be part of specific group therapy. Various techniques are used in these settings to assist with grief.

Heavy Focus on Expressing Emotions

In a grief counseling session, a grief counselor helps create a safe space. Here, people can share their feelings about their loss. This often includes discussing their feelings, reminiscing about the deceased, or participating in activities that encourage emotional expression, like writing or art therapy.

Consistent Support and Encouragement

The grief counselor provides understanding, attentive listening, and acknowledgment of the person’s feelings and experiences. They create a caring environment, helping the individual feel recognized and supported during their journey of grief.

Guidance and Knowledge

Grief counselors can educate individuals about the typical grieving process, assisting them in recognizing the different stages and emotional responses they might encounter. They may also provide advice on coping methods, self-care techniques, and constructive ways to manage grief.

Developing Skillsets to Help You Cope

Grief counseling provides ways to help people deal with their grief. It includes relaxation methods, stress reduction techniques, mindfulness practices, and breathing exercises. These tools can help with emotional management and finding peace.

Resolving Unfinished Business

Grief counseling offers a chance to tackle any lingering issues or disputes connected to the loss. This process may include examining feelings of guilt, seeking forgiveness, or addressing unresolved emotions that could be obstructing healing.

Finding Hope After Loss

Grief counselors can help people understand their loss. They guide individuals in finding hope and purpose after the loss.

They may also help people recognize and embrace new roles or identities as they adjust to life without their loved one.

Developing Rituals and Memorials for Your Loved One

Grief counselors often suggest that people take part in rituals. They also encourage finding meaningful ways to honor and remember their loved ones. You can hold memorial services. You can also create memory books.

Doing activities that celebrate the life of the person who has passed away is another option.

Different Types of Therapy for Grief and Loss

At New Jersey Behavioral Health Center, we may use a variety of grief and loss therapies based on your needs.

Prolonged Grief Therapy (PGT)

PGT, formerly known as complicated grief therapy, helps those struggling to accept a loss. It provides a clear way to handle tough emotions, connect with others, and set future goals. Avoiding grief can make suffering last longer for the individual experiencing loss.

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) examines how your relationships relate to feelings of sadness. It highlights important issues like life changes, unresolved grief, conflicts with others, and feelings of loneliness. These can all come from losing someone close to you.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps identify automatic thoughts and feelings during tough times. By challenging unproductive beliefs, you can better manage grief and uncertainty.

Meditation and Mindfulness

Mindfulness techniques help you observe without judgment, focusing on bodily sensations and thoughts related to stress. Embracing self-acceptance and present awareness allows for kindness and adaptability during the unpredictable journey of grieving.

Find Help Dealing with Grief at New Jersey Behavioral Health

Everyone experiences loss differently, influenced by their life story. Common feelings include deep sadness and emptiness, along with mixed emotions. Grief can vary from overwhelming to moments of relief.

Our team of mental health professionals offers evidence-based therapies for grief, such as Complicated Grief Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. You don’t have to face grief alone; contact us for a free consultation.

References:

1. American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy: Bereavement and Loss
2. National Institutes of Health: Grief, Bereavement and loss