Grief, Bereavement & Loss

There are many types of loss - some visible, others deeply internal.

Each can trigger grief, even if it doesn’t involve death.

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Grief therapy can help with many kinds of loss - here are some of the most common ones people experience:

 

Physical Loss

A tangible or visible loss, such as the death of a family member, partner, friend, or pet, or even the loss of a home or possessions. These losses are concrete and are often the most recognized form of loss.

 

Psychological or Emotional Loss

The loss of security, trust, identity, or self-esteem. This might happen after trauma, abuse, or a major life change that alters how someone sees themselves or the world.

 

Relationship Loss

The ending or significant change in a connection with another person - through divorce, separation, estrangement, or conflict. It can also include the loss of what someone hoped the relationship would be.

 

Symbolic Loss

An intangible loss that represents something meaningful - like losing faith, purpose, dreams, or future plans. For example, infertility can feel like the loss of a hoped-for identity as a parent.

 

Developmental or Life-Transition Loss

Normal stages of growth involve loss too - like leaving childhood, moving out, retirement, or children growing up. These changes bring new beginnings but also grief for what’s left behind.

 

Functional or Health-Related Loss

Loss of physical or mental abilities due to illness, injury, or aging. This can affect independence, confidence, or one’s sense of identity.

 

Material or Financial Loss

Loss of job, income, home, or financial security. These losses often carry emotional weight - fear, shame, or uncertainty about the future.

 

Collective or Community Loss

Loss that affects a group, community, or culture, such as through disaster, war, or systemic injustice. This type of loss can shape shared grief and identity.

 

Ambiguous Loss

When the loss is unclear or unresolved - for example, a loved one who is missing, emotionally unavailable, or living with dementia. The person is “here, but not really here,” making closure difficult.

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