Grief and Loss Counselling in Ontario

Grief doesn’t follow a schedule, and it is not something you simply “move on” from. While grief is often associated with the death of a loved one, loss can take many forms. You may experience grief after the end of a relationship, a change in your identity or role, a career transition, a major life change, or the loss of the future you expected.

I’m Charlene Sainz, a Registered Psychotherapist (CRPO #13312) based in Collingwood, Ontario. I provide virtual grief and loss therapy for adults across Ontario, offering a compassionate and supportive space to process loss, navigate difficult emotions, and adjust to life after change.

My approach combines grief-informed therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and somatic approaches, tailored to your unique experience of loss and what you need most. Grief is personal, and there is no single “right” way to grieve.

When Grief Feels Heavy to Carry

Grief can impact every part of your life; your emotions, thoughts, relationships, body, and sense of identity. Some days may feel manageable, while others may bring unexpected waves of sadness, anger, guilt, loneliness, or longing.

You may find yourself:

  • Feeling overwhelmed by emotions that come in waves

  • Struggling to adjust to life after a loss

  • Feeling disconnected from yourself or others

  • Experiencing guilt, regret, or unanswered questions

  • Feeling stuck or unsure how to move forward

  • Struggling with changes in your identity or sense of purpose

  • Finding holidays, milestones, or reminders especially difficult

  • Feeling pressure to “be okay” before you are ready

Grief is not a process of forgetting or leaving someone or something behind. Therapy can provide a space to honour what has been lost while supporting you in finding ways to move forward with compassion and meaning.

Grief Can Come From Many Types of Loss

Therapy may support you through:

  • The death of a loved one

  • Pet loss

  • Relationship loss or separation

  • Divorce or changes in family relationships

  • Miscarriage, infertility, or reproductive loss

  • Loss of health or changes in abilities

  • Career changes or loss of a meaningful role

  • Major life transitions

  • Loss of hopes, plans, or the future you imagined

You do not need to justify your grief for it to matter. If a loss has impacted you, it deserves space and support.

A Compassionate Approach to Grief Therapy

My approach to grief therapy is centered on providing a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can process your experience at your own pace.

Together, we can explore:

  • The emotions and challenges connected to your loss

  • How grief has affected your thoughts, body, and daily life

  • Ways to cope with painful emotions and difficult moments

  • How to adjust to changes while honouring what was meaningful

  • How to reconnect with yourself, your relationships, and your sense of purpose

There is no timeline for grief, and therapy is not about rushing you through the process. Our work together is guided by your needs, your experiences, and what feels supportive for you.

Virtual Grief Therapy Across Ontario

As a virtual psychotherapy practice, I provide grief and loss therapy to adults throughout Ontario. Virtual sessions allow you to access support from the comfort and privacy of your own space, without the added stress of travelling while navigating a difficult time.

Sessions are 50 minutes and available during daytime and evening hours to provide flexibility around your schedule.

What to Expect in Therapy

Beginning therapy after a loss can feel uncertain. Our first sessions will focus on understanding your experience, what has changed, and what support would be most helpful.

We will work collaboratively to create a space where you feel heard and supported. There is no expectation to “move on” or grieve in a particular way; we will focus on helping you navigate your grief while caring for yourself through the process.

Worried About Cost?

Many people already have psychotherapy coverage through workplace benefits or extended health plans.

Receipts are provided for insurance reimbursement, and a referral is not required. If you are unsure about your coverage, we can discuss your options during a free consultation.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Reaching out for grief support does not mean you are letting go of what was lost. It means creating space to process your experience and receive support while navigating a difficult chapter.

A free consultation is an opportunity to ask questions, share what you are experiencing, and explore whether working together feels like the right fit.

You do not have to carry grief alone.

Let's Talk
Let's Talk