When we lose someone who has been part of our life a husband, wife, or life partner
the loss is more than emotional.
It touches every part of our identity, our daily life, and even how we see ourselves and the future.

Grieving the death of a partner is one of the most profound experiences anyone can go through. It can feel overwhelming, confusing, and lonely.

You may find yourself asking:

• Who am I now without them?
• How can I face the future alone?
• Will I ever feel whole again?

There is no simple path through grief. No "right" way to grieve.
Everyone's journey is deeply personal — shaped by the life you shared, your memories, and the bond that continues beyond death.

When we experience the death of a spouse or life partner we can often feel a sense of powerlessness and difficulty making decisions. Frequently we may feel as though we are not competent to undertake day to day activities such as dealing with financial matters and practical tasks together with a sense of feeling disconnected from others. Even in the deepest grief it is possible to start to engage with these needs and begin to find moments of strength, healing and reconnection.

How You Can Begin to Support Yourself

Set your own pace: Be kind to yourself. Let go of “timelines” and just ask yourself “what do I need today?”

Start Making Decisions: Even decisions such as choosing what to eat or whether to take a walk. Just one a day will help you to feel more in control

Stay Connected: Create a ritual such a lighting a candle, writing a journal or texting a friend

Celebrate your wins: Celebrate getting out of bed, speaking to a friend. They are not small things. They show your strength

Learn a new skill: Learning a new skill can help to restore your confidence

Notice your resilience: Keep a journal of your day and what you have managed to deal with. This will help you to build a sense of capability

Reach Out: When you feel that you are ready, reach out to others, friends, family or support groups. The connection can help you to feel less alone

Talk to your love one: Write them a letter or talk to them or about them. This ongoing bond can provide a deep sense of comfort

How Counselling Can Help

I offer a space where you don't have to pretend to be okay, or be strong for others.

In our work together, you are in charge. You decide what you want to explore, when you want to move forward, and when you simply need to be heard.

Grief is not something to “fix” or “rush.”

Healing happens when you are given the space to:

• Feel whatever you feel — sadness, anger, guilt, love, confusion, hope.
• Move at your own pace — without pressure or judgment.
• Discover your inner strength — even when it feels hidden.
• Reconnect with life — while continuing to honour the love you shared.

You might not see it right now, but even the smallest moments — getting out of bed, reaching out to someone, making it through a difficult day — are signs of the strength that is still inside you.

Together, we can gently notice and build on these steps.

Staying Connected While Moving Forward

One of the hardest parts of grief is feeling disconnected — from the person you've lost, from the world around you, and sometimes even from yourself.

In counselling, we can explore ways to:

• Stay connected to the memories and love that remain.
• Find new ways of feeling supported and less alone.
• Begin to shape a new future, one small step at a time, that still honours your past.

This is not about "moving on" or forgetting — it’s about moving forward while carrying the love with you.