Grief is an intense emotional suffering caused by a loss. It is painful. It is work. It is a lingering process. It is a healing journey that can last anywhere from one to three years, and for some a lifetime.

Grief is not always just about death. It can occur in a divorce, life transition, disaster, or misfortune. In addition, many confusing and intense feelings can accompany grief such as guilt, anger, or hopelessness.

Unfortunately, many times friends and family members do not know how to help someone in grief. Well-intentioned but misguided support such as trying to “cheer up” the person can actually add to their emotional burdens and prolong the bereavement process. In addition, grieving takes time and can be done in both healthy and unhealthy ways.

Christian Counseling Associates of Western Pennsylvania (CCA) offers grief counseling from a Biblical worldview. We understand that unwanted circumstances and traumatic losses can be overwhelming.