Bereavement Counselling in London

There are few events in life more distressing than the death of a friend or family member. Bereavement or grief relates to the period of time after we’ve lost people we love, and describes how we adjust to the significant amount of change that usually follows.  Sadness, anger, depression, numbness and confusion are just some of the many different emotions that people can experience during this time.

What are the common symptoms of bereavement?

• Shock and numbness – this is usually the first reaction to loss, and people often talk about “being in a daze”
• Overwhelming sadness, with lots of crying
• Tiredness or exhaustion
• Anger – towards the person you’ve lost or the reason for your loss
• Guilt – for example, guilt about feeling angry, about something you said or did not say, or not being able to stop your loved one dying

These feelings may not be there all the time and powerful feelings may appear unexpectedly.

It’s not always easy to recognise when bereavement, grief or loss are the reason you’re acting or feeling differently.  If these symptoms don’t improve over time it might be helpful to seek therapy.

Some of the signs that your bereavement might be more complicated and requiring treatment would be:

• Having trouble carrying out normal routines
• Isolating from others and withdrawing from social activities
• Experiencing depression, deep sadness, guilt or self-blame
• Believing that you did something wrong or could have prevented the death
• Feeling life isn’t worth living without your loved one
• Wishing you had died along with your loved one

Treatment for bereavement

Therapy for bereavement can be helpful in understanding your loss and how it has impacted you and your life. There are different types of therapy that are beneficial when struggling with bereavement such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive analytic therapy and bereavement counselling.

Therapy  provides a safe, confidential and non-judgmental space to talk about the loss, and to explore ways of managing emotions.  It will help you navigate the stages of grief and can assist you in developing coping mechanisms that make adjusting to loss easier.

Therapy and Counselling for Bereavement  at The Fitzrovia Psychology Clinic

We’re here to help.  Our team of leading clinical and counselling psychologists are skilled in delivering therapy for bereavement and bereavement counselling.  We work from our therapy rooms on Harley Street, London and Esher, Surrey.  For individuals who are unable to access our London or Surrey clinics, we offer remote services and online therapy options.