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Grief is one of the most universal human experiences — and one of the most isolating. Whether you have lost someone to death, or are grieving a relationship, a way of life, or a future you expected to have, the weight of loss can be profound. And yet many people hesitate to seek grief counselling, either because they are unsure what it involves, or because they feel they should be able to manage on their own.
If you have been considering grief counselling but are not quite sure what to expect, this guide is for you.
What is grief counselling?
Grief counselling is a form of professional support designed to help individuals process loss — of any kind. It is not about being told how to feel, or being given a timeline for when you should be over it. It is a supported space where you can explore your grief at your own pace, with someone who is trained to help you navigate it.
Grief counsellors are typically trained therapists or counsellors with specific expertise in loss and bereavement. Their role is not to take the grief away — which is neither possible nor desirable — but to help you develop a relationship with it that allows you to continue living fully.
What kinds of loss does grief counselling address?
Grief counselling is most commonly associated with bereavement — the loss of a loved one through death. But grief extends well beyond this. People seek grief counselling for:
- The death of a family member, close friend, or pet
- Pregnancy loss, including miscarriage and stillbirth
- Divorce or the end of a significant relationship
- Loss of health — a serious diagnosis, disability, or chronic illness
- Job loss or a major career change
- The loss of a role or identity, such as becoming an empty nester or retiring
- Grief associated with a child’s diagnosis or developmental challenges
At Viriya Community Services, the grief support team works with individuals experiencing both death-related and non-death losses, recognising that grief takes many forms and that all of them deserve care.
What happens in a first grief counselling session?
Many people feel apprehensive about the first session. Not knowing what to expect is part of what makes it feel daunting. Here is what typically happens:
The first session is primarily an opportunity for your counsellor to understand your situation. They will invite you to share about your loss. You can decide what is comfortable for you and reveal it accordingly.
This session also gives you the chance to decide whether you are ready to begin grief counselling. You can stop at this session if you are not ready to proceed.
At the end of the session, your counsellor will typically discuss what subsequent sessions might look like and what goals you might work toward together, though these are always shaped by your needs and readiness.
How long does grief counselling take?
There is no standard timeline. Some people find significant relief after 6-8 sessions. Others engage in longer-term work, particularly if the loss was traumatic, complicated by difficult circumstances, or layered with earlier losses.
What matters most is that the pace is right for you. A good grief counsellor will not rush you toward resolution — they will pace with you in your grief journey.
Is grief counselling only for people in acute distress?
No. You do not need to be in crisis to benefit from grief counselling. Many people seek support months or even years after a loss, when the initial numbness has faded and the reality of grief settles in. Others come early, wanting help to navigate the initial shock. Both are valid — and both are welcome.
Finding grief support in Singapore
Viriya Community Services has offered specialist grief support since 2019, providing counselling and peer support group for individuals and families experiencing loss. Sessions are available for both bereavement and non-death losses.
To find out more or to arrange an appointment, visit viriya.org.sg/contact-us or call +65 6256 1311.
