Grief and loss are inevitable parts of the life process; however, prolonged grief can cause great turmoil and interfere with daily functioning.

The counseling environment is a place of healing for grieving clients in which they can ventilate their feelings, identify and implement healthy ways to grieve, and experience empathy and support from the therapist.  Journaling and memorializing are two common techniques used in bereavement counseling.

Some examples of grief and loss issues addressed in therapy include the death of a loved one, the termination of a relationship, job loss, financial instability, or being diagnosed with a life threatening illness.