Grief & Loss Counseling

Our Services

Grief and Loss Counseling

Grief is a universal experience, yet in Pakistan it’s often dealt with privately. Dr. Aftab emphasizes that crying, remembering loved ones, and talking about loss are healthy responses, not signs of weakness. He works with clients on grief caused by many losses: a death in the family, divorce, loss of health, or even a job. His approach reduces stigma by explaining that grief is the natural way to heal and that counseling can support this process.

What is grief? Grief is the emotional process of coming to terms with loss. Though we usually think of grief after a death, Cleveland Clinic explains that any major life change that disrupts our sense of normalcy can trigger grief. This includes losing a loved one, a pet, a home, health, a dream, or even a way of life. Everyone grieves differently. Common feelings include shock, sadness, guilt, anger, or relief (depending on the situation). It’s important to know these reactions are normal and temporary phases of healing.

Step-by-step Counseling Process

Loss counseling with Dr. Aftab is carefully paced:

Safe space to talk: In early sessions, Dr. Aftab lets clients share their story and feelings without interruption. He listens patiently, validates the pain, and ensures the person feels heard.
Understanding grief reactions: He explains that grief is not “one-size-fits-all.” Many find comfort in knowing that what they feel is shared by others in their situation. For instance, Cleveland Clinic notes that delayed or inhibited grief (shutting down feelings) can cause extra stress (like anxiety or insomnia) later.
Self-care strategies: The counselor will advise on self-care routines crucial during grief. This includes regular sleep, healthy eating, and gentle exercise (like walking). Routine helps restore some normalcy for example, going to bed at the same time, which helps regulate emotions.
Emotional expression: Clients learn ways to channel emotions: crying, writing letters to the lost loved one, drawing, or telling stories about them. Dr. Aftab might use journaling or art therapy techniques to help people externalize their feelings.
Support systems: Dr. Aftab helps the grieving person connect (or reconnect) with family and friends. He emphasizes that “you are not alone” and encourages reaching out when feeling isolated. If needed, he offers to facilitate family counseling sessions so relatives can support each other and express mutual support.

About US

Dr. Aftab’s Perspective

He understands that Pakistani families often come together after loss, which is comforting, but also that some may try to rush grieving or avoid talking about it (saying “Yeh sab Allah ki marzi” in a way that hushes feelings). He balances religious respect (“patience in tragedy”) with the need to mourn. His office offers grief support in both individual and sometimes group settings (with others of same faith). The focus is always on moving forward at the patient’s pace, while honoring cultural and religious traditions.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

I lost a loved one and feel guilty. Is this normal?

Yes. It’s very common to feel guilt (“Did I do enough?”), anger (“Why did this happen to us?”), or even relief (if a chronic illness ended). These are natural parts of grief. Talking about them with Dr. Aftab or a counselor can help release those feelings.

How long does grief last?

There’s no fixed duration. Some people begin to heal in a few months, others take longer. It’s important to move at your own pace. If you ever feel “stuck” for a very long time, professional help can speed healing.

Should I avoid places that remind me of the person?

Initially, it’s okay to avoid certain triggers. But over time, Dr. Aftab may guide you to gently face those reminders (like looking at photos or visiting a favorite spot) so they become comforting rather than painful.

What about children how should we talk to them?

If children lost someone, Dr. Aftab advises honest, age-appropriate explanations. He can provide resources or sessions to help children cope too, often encouraging drawing or play to express their feelings.

I feel very lonely after loss. How can I find support?

Joining support groups can be very helpful (for example, community or mosque groups for grieving families). Dr. Aftab can refer you to local grief support networks. Also, sharing memories with family and friends helps remind you that others care.

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Appointment & Contact

Scheduling an appointment with Dr. Naeem Aftab is easy and confidential. Use the contact information below or our online portal (calendar integration coming soon) to secure a session.