Counselling for Body Grief

What is Body Grief?

Body grief refers to the emotional and psychological response to changes or losses experienced in one's physical body. This type of grief can stem from various changes impacting how we look and feel, what we can physically participate in, and our identities. People might experience mourning about the changes in their bodies or the way that oppression has harmed their understanding of their physical self.

The process of body grief often involves feelings of sadness, anger, frustration, and confusion. People may grapple with a sense of disconnection from their bodies, leading to issues related to body image and self-acceptance.

You’re not alone. Many people are seeking to understand their feelings of grief connected to how they feel about their bodies and changes. Some people have internalized harmful messages, and there is grief at the way we have acted out that harmed ourselves through internal criticism and bullying. We are giving many conflicting messages to ‘just love your body’ and then simultaneously shown the opposite through oppressive messages about gender, size, race, class, ability and identity. It makes sense that people feel this way, and it is possible to create some space from the intensity of those feelings. You deserve to exist in ways honouring your truth and affirming your identities.

How can counselling help with body grief?

Understanding Emotions

Counselling provides a supportive space for individuals to explore and express their emotions surrounding body grief. This may include feelings of loss, anger, sadness, or frustration. A therapist can help clients articulate these emotions and explore them with compassion and depth.

Process of Acceptance

Therapy encourages individuals to confront their new reality and work towards acceptance. Through guided discussions and therapeutic techniques, clients can learn to embrace their current physical state, reducing feelings of disconnection or resentment towards their bodies.

Reframing Perspectives

Counselling can help reframe one’s perspective on one's body. Therapists often employ cognitive behavioural techniques to help clients challenge negative thoughts and beliefs about their bodies, promoting a more positive and compassionate self-image.

Coping Strategies

Counsellors can equip clients with effective coping strategies to manage the emotional turbulence associated with body grief. These strategies might include mindfulness practices, self-care routines, or creative expression, all aimed at fostering resilience.

Building Support Networks

In therapy, individuals can explore ways to strengthen their support networks. Connecting with others who have experienced similar body-related grief can create a sense of community and understanding, a vital part of creating a path for healing. We heal our grief in communion with each other.

Setting Goals

Counsellors can assist clients in setting realistic goals for their well-being and health. This may involve examining what is possible in the here and now, building a network of support, or redefining personal aspirations that correlate with the body’s current capabilities.

Navigating Identity Changes

Body grief often leads to shifts in identity. Counselling provides a space to navigate these changes thoughtfully, allowing individuals to explore who they are beyond their physical appearance and how they relate to the world around them.

Through weaving different approaches of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative and Brainspotting, Inner Arc practice works with you to create a space that can hold and honour your grief, process your emotions and create a path to finding more trust in self and relationships. For more information about the services I offer, check out individual or group counselling.