Grief counseling is a form of psychotherapy that aims to help people cope with the physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and cognitive responses to loss. These experiences are commonly thought to be brought on by a loved person's death, but may more broadly be understood as shaped by any significant life-altering loss (e.g., divorce, home foreclosure, or job loss)
"Grief following the death of someone close is one of the most painful and stressful life events. It is experienced in many ways — emotionally, physically, spiritually — and everyone grieves differently. Shock, anger, sadness, guilt, and anxiety are common feelings during the grieving process, and they can be overwhelming. Occasionally there are no emotions, there is only numbness. Some people find it difficult to cope with their loss and believe they'll never be happy again. Grief counseling offers support at this challenging time. It is a form of therapy that helps the bereaved to explore and process distressing and confusing feelings. Loneliness and isolation are also common feelings after loss, and the support of family and friends can be invaluable. However, it isn't always possible to grieve freely and openly among them; after all, they are grieving too. Some families and cultures insist grief is endured stoically and resolved quickly, while others come together for support until the funeral, after which everyone is left to find their own way. For people who are facing grief alone, counseling sessions validate their feelings and provide a safe, non-judgmental space to fully express emotions. Several family members or couples can attend counseling sessions together if they wish to learn how to support each other more effectively."
- Taken from Grief Counseling: What are the Benefits? by Science Care.