Grief Therapy
Humans innately develop emotional bonds with many people and things. Loved ones, friends, beloved homes, locales, possessions, pets, etc., come to, almost literally, hold "a place in our heart." When we lose the beloved person or thing to death or any other reason, the loss is real. Humans are designed to feel pain at such a loss. This pain is called grief, and, like any pain, grief is distinctly unpleasant. This tempts many grievers to avoid, ignore, or deny their pain, fearing that the pain will otherwise last forever and rule their lives.
Fortunately, psychological research has shown that grief is, in most cases, naturally self-limiting. In most cases, it is advisable for anyone who has lost a loved one (or thing) to allow themselves to feel the pain. Their tears are, in fact, beautiful evidence of the preciousness of the lost one. In the first days after a loved one dies, very severe emotional pain is normal. In most cases, even when the loss is enormous, the pain naturally subsides. The length of the process, which ends with the griever having a continuing but changed relationship with the lost person or thing, varies by situation. For example, grief over a parent, spouse, or child often takes 2-4 years to finish. While we continue to miss the lost person or thing, it is generally expected that one's self esteem and general functioning remain intact.
Every case of grief is different. Dr. Chafetz is an expert in assisting clients understand their particular situation and find their own healthy approach to this challenge in life.
Fortunately, psychological research has shown that grief is, in most cases, naturally self-limiting. In most cases, it is advisable for anyone who has lost a loved one (or thing) to allow themselves to feel the pain. Their tears are, in fact, beautiful evidence of the preciousness of the lost one. In the first days after a loved one dies, very severe emotional pain is normal. In most cases, even when the loss is enormous, the pain naturally subsides. The length of the process, which ends with the griever having a continuing but changed relationship with the lost person or thing, varies by situation. For example, grief over a parent, spouse, or child often takes 2-4 years to finish. While we continue to miss the lost person or thing, it is generally expected that one's self esteem and general functioning remain intact.
Every case of grief is different. Dr. Chafetz is an expert in assisting clients understand their particular situation and find their own healthy approach to this challenge in life.
