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Bereavement and Grief Counseling

“No one ever told me that grief felt so like fear.”
— C. S. Lewis, A Grief Observed

grief

Grief can arrive suddenly or unfold slowly, but its presence is always profound. After a significant loss, it’s common to feel like the world has shifted—and you’re left trying to find your footing in unfamiliar emotional terrain. One moment may bring sadness, the next anger or guilt. You might feel wide awake at 3 a.m. for days, only to find yourself unable to get out of bed the next.

The emotional weight of grief often makes even the simplest daily tasks feel impossible. You may wonder how others seem to move on so easily—while your own world feels stuck in place. That contrast can make the pain feel even more isolating.

Everyone Grieves Differently

There’s no “right” way to grieve. Some people process by talking. Others need solitude. You may find yourself crying uncontrollably one minute and laughing at a memory the next. Some question their purpose or faith. Others turn inward—searching for meaning in silence or movement.

Whether your grief is rooted in sudden loss, long illness, or anticipatory mourning, the emotional terrain can feel disorienting and unpredictable. And if you’re struggling with guilt, anger, or lingering questions—those are normal, too.

How Grief Counseling Helps

Grief counseling creates space to honor your loss without judgment. Together, we can explore:

  • The emotional waves of sadness, anger, guilt, fear, or numbness

  • Ways to cope with insomnia, low energy, or lack of motivation

  • Rebuilding a sense of purpose after loss

  • Guilt or unanswered questions surrounding a loved one’s passing

  • How to stay connected to memory—while learning to move forward

You don’t need to go through this alone. Whether you’re grieving a partner, parent, child, friend, or another kind of loss, support is available.

You Can Reengage With Life—On Your Own Terms

Healing doesn’t mean forgetting. It means learning to carry your story differently—one that includes pain, love, and ultimately, your capacity to continue living with intention and connection.

Call me at (516) 627-1145 for a complimentary consultation to discuss any of these or related topics.

Dr. Maryann B. Schaefer, LMHC

Ph.D. – Counseling, Concentration in Psychology
NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Fellow of American Psychotherapy Association

Phone: (516) 627-1145

Email: drmaryannschaefer@gmail.com

5 Travers Street  Manhasset, NY 11030

Office Hours: By appointment only.

american psychotherapy association