Therapy for Grief & Loss

Grief is one of the most profound human experiences—and one of the loneliest. Whether you’ve lost someone you love, experienced a significant life change, or are facing anticipatory grief, the pain can feel overwhelming and isolating.

At Storywell Counseling, we understand that grief isn’t something to “get over” or move past on a specific timeline. It’s something you learn to carry, integrate, and live alongside. We’re here to support you through this difficult journey with compassion, understanding, and evidence-based care that honors your unique experience of loss.

Understanding Grief & Loss

Grief is the natural response to loss. It’s not just an emotion—it’s a full-body, full-mind experience that affects how you think, feel, sleep, eat, and move through the world. And while grief is universal, the way it shows up is deeply personal.

Grief Can Come From Many Types of Loss

When most people think of grief, they think of death. But grief can follow many different kinds of losses:

  • Death of a loved one

  • Reproductive loss

  • Relationship loss

  • Life transitions and changes

  • Anticipatory grief

There’s no “right way” to grieve and it rarely follows a neat, linear path. Instead, it’s often messy, unpredictable, and constantly shifting.

How We Support You Through Grief at Storywell Counseling

Grief counseling isn’t about making your pain go away or rushing you through some predetermined healing process. It’s about creating a safe space where you can express whatever you’re feeling without judgment, learn tools to manage the harder moments, and gradually find a way to live with your loss.

What Makes Our Grief Counseling Different

We honor your unique relationship to loss. No two grief experiences are the same. We tailor our approach to your specific situation, personality, and needs.

We understand complicated grief. Sometimes grief is mixed with relief, anger, guilt, or ambivalence. We create space for all of these complex, sometimes contradictory feelings.

We respect your timeline. You won’t be rushed to “move on” or feel better on someone else’s schedule. Healing happens at its own pace.

We integrate your values and beliefs. Whether faith is central to your healing or you prefer a secular approach, we meet you where you are and honor what’s meaningful to you.

In our sessions, you don’t have to pretend to be okay. You don’t have to protect us from your pain or worry about being “too much.” You can cry, rage, laugh at memories, sit in silence, or share whatever is on your heart. We’re not afraid of your grief, and we won’t try to fix it or make it smaller.

We offer flexible support. Whether you prefer in-person sessions at our Westerville office or the comfort of telehealth appointments from home, we provide the same compassionate care.Many people wonder what actually happens in grief counseling. Here’s what you can expect:

Frequently Asked Questions About Grief Therapy

How long should I wait after a loss before starting counseling?

There’s no required waiting period. Some people find it helpful to start counseling immediately after a loss, while others wait months or even years. Whenever you feel ready for support is the right time.

Will talking about my loss make it worse?

Talking about your loss in a safe, supportive environment actually helps most people. While it might feel painful in the moment, expressing and processing your grief is healthier than trying to suppress or avoid it. You’re always in control of what you share and when.

What if I can’t stop crying during sessions?

Crying is welcome and expected in grief counseling. We have plenty of tissues, and we’re not uncomfortable with tears. You don’t need to apologize or hold back your emotions. This is a safe place to feel everything.

Will I ever feel normal again?

You’ll find a “new normal”—a life that’s different from before but can still hold meaning, connection, and moments of happiness. You won’t forget your loved one or stop missing them, but the intensity of pain typically softens over time, and you’ll develop ways to live alongside your grief.

What if my family thinks I should be “over it” by now?

People who haven’t experienced significant loss often don’t understand that grief doesn’t follow a schedule. Your therapist can help you navigate these relationships, set boundaries, and find support from people who truly understand.

Can grief counseling help if the loss happened years ago?

Absolutely. There’s no statute of limitations on grief. If a loss from your past is still affecting you, therapy can help you process it, even decades later.

What if I feel guilty for moving forward or feeling happy?

Many grieving people struggle with guilt when they start to feel better or enjoy life again. We help you understand that living fully and honoring your loved one aren’t mutually exclusive—in fact, living well can be a beautiful way to honor them.