Bereavement and grief aren’t light-hearted topics. Bereavement refers to the process of recovering from the death of a loved one, and grief is a reaction to any form of loss. Both encompass a wide range of emotions such as fear, anger and deep, deep sadness.

While loss is a universal experience, adapting to a loss can look dramatically different from person to person, depending on background, beliefs, relationship to the person who’s passed (if relevant), and other factors. When the emotional weight is overwhelming, turn to Connect Cognitive Therapy. We offer compassionate, client-centred grief and bereavement counselling to support Mississauga, Ontario, individuals throughout the healing process.

Learning About the Symptoms of Grief

Common symptoms of grief can be physical, emotional or social. A few common symptoms in these categories are:

Physical Symptoms

• Crying and sighing
• Headaches
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty sleeping
• Weakness
• Fatigue

Emotional Symptoms

• Feelings of sadness and yearning
• Feelings of worry or anger
• Feelings of frustration or guilt

Social Symptoms

• Feeling detached from others
• Self-isolation from social contact
• Behaving in ways that are not normal for you

There is no "right way" to grieve, and your emotions may change from day to day. You might feel disconnected from others or struggle with daily tasks. You may be able to continue their day-to-day routine after one loss, yet not be able to get out of bed after a different kind of loss. The good news is that whatever your symptoms are, grief and bereavement counselling have been proven to help folks in your position.

How Can a Grief and Loss Counsellor Help You?

Grief and loss therapy provides a supportive space to process complex emotions. At Connect Cognitive Therapy, our grief counsellors will navigate the grieving process alongside you. Whether your loss is recent or occurred years ago, therapy can help you find meaning and stability again. Our approach to grief and bereavement counselling is grounded in empathy, personalisation, and evidence-based techniques. Together, we will:

• Explore and express difficult emotions
• Understand the stages of grief in a meaningful way
• Find ways to honour and remember your loved one
• Reconnect with life and re-establish routines
• Cope with anniversaries, holidays, and significant dates

Sessions are available both in-person in Mississauga and online to accommodate your comfort and needs. If you are experiencing grief-related thoughts, behaviours, or feelings, please schedule an appointment today. Together with a compassionate grief counsellor from Connect Cognitive Therapy, you can begin your path toward healing.