Experiencing the loss of a loved one is one of life’s most painful challenges. Many of us will face it at some point, feeling a wide range of emotions such as shock, numbness, anger or guilt. These intense feelings can leave us exhausted, slowed down or even depressed. While grief naturally fades over time for many, some people find that the pain persists for years, making it difficult to move forward. Bereavement counselling can provide the support needed during these difficult times.
Stages of Bereavement
Grief often unfolds in several stages, each of which is a natural part of the healing process:
- Shock: Initial numbness, difficulty feeling emotions or inability to cry.
- Denial: Difficulty accepting the reality of the loss.
- Anger and Guilt: Feelings may arise towards oneself, others or the lost loved one.
- Depression: Symptoms such as low motivation, social withdrawal, appetite changes, sleep disturbances and physical aches.
- Acceptance and Adjustment: Gradual emotional accommodation to the loss, integrating it into daily life.
Note: Each person’s grieving process is unique. External factors or unresolved issues may prolong or alter these stages. Bereavement counselling helps to address these obstacles and facilitate healthy emotional processing.
Common Situations Addressed in Grief Counselling
- Death of a loved one
- Miscarriage or abortion
- Serious personal injury or accident
- Life-changing illness
- Redundancy or unemployment
- End of a close relationship or divorce
- Children moving away
- Academic failure or other major life setbacks
How Bereavement Counselling Helps
A professional counsellor or psychotherapist provides a safe, supportive space for individuals and families to explore their emotions and process their grief. Counselling can:
- Facilitate emotional expression and acceptance of reality
- Support adjustment to life changes after loss
- Help build coping strategies for daily life
- Offer guidance in navigating complex or prolonged grief
Bereavement counselling is often a gradual, ongoing process. While grief cannot be rushed, counselling ensures you are supported during one of life’s most challenging periods.
Accessible Bereavement Support
I provide in-person counselling in Budapest and online grief therapy, making professional support accessible to English-speaking clients living locally or abroad.
Book a Session
If you’re ready to take a step toward change, growth and better mental wellbeing, I invite you to get in touch.
📍 Location: Budapest XI. district, Fadrusz u.27., Hungary
💻 Online sessions available
📩 Email: info.pszichologia
gmail.com (info[dot]pszichologia[at]gmail[dot]com)
Let’s work together to make your life more balanced, meaningful and fulfilling.
Author: Gabriella Brédáné Kis, Clinical Psychologist & Psychotherapist
I’m an English-speaking psychologist based in Budapest, offering in-person and online therapy for individuals seeking support with self-awareness, trauma and grief recovery, performance anxiety and relationship difficulties.
I help clients — including expats, international students, and professionals — gain deeper insight, emotional balance, and a stronger sense of connection in their personal and professional lives.