Grief is one of the most universal yet deeply personal experiences. It arises after many types of loss, such as the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, the loss of a job, or even the passing of a cherished pet. At Cottonwood Psychiatry, Dr. Colleen McGuire, DO, offers grief counseling to help patients move through this challenging process with understanding, compassion, and professional guidance.
What Grief Looks Like
Grief affects both the body and mind. It can appear as emotional pain, fatigue, loss of motivation, sadness, anger, guilt, or even physical symptoms such as changes in appetite or sleep patterns. These feelings can come in waves, often unexpectedly, making it hard to predict when sadness or relief might surface.
While each person grieves in their own way, some common experiences include:
- Emotional numbness or disbelief
- Tearfulness or mood swings
- Difficulty concentrating
- Social withdrawal or feeling disconnected
- Questioning beliefs or meaning
These responses are normal and part of how the human mind and body attempt to adjust to loss.
Moving Through the Stages of Grief
Many people have heard of the “stages of grief,” often described as denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. However, these stages are not linear. One may experience several at once or revisit earlier feelings over time. Healing is a gradual process that cannot be rushed. For some, noticeable improvement happens within months, while others may take a year or longer to feel peace and acceptance.
Grief counseling provides structured, compassionate support through this journey, helping patients recognize emotions, express them safely, and find new meaning after loss.
The Role of a Grief Counselor
A grief counselor serves as a steady presence while you navigate the unpredictable nature of loss. Dr. Colleen McGuire, DO, specializes in trauma, midlife transitions, and alternatives to medication at Cottonwood Psychiatry. She uses a client-centered, empathetic approach rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). This method encourages people to accept painful emotions while still engaging in meaningful activities that align with their values.
Dr. McGuire’s unique background in psychiatry, anthropology, and music allows her to connect with patients on both an emotional and scientific level. Her compassionate nature helps individuals feel heard and supported as they process grief and rebuild their lives.
Healing at Your Own Pace
Healing from loss is not about forgetting but rather learning how to carry the memory with you in a healthier way. Over time, grief may soften, making space for acceptance, gratitude, and hope. Support from a qualified grief counselor can make this transition smoother, helping you develop coping tools and routines that support emotional recovery.
In counseling, some patients notice early progress within a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support depending on the depth and complexity of their grief. The important thing is to begin the process and allow time for natural healing.
Taking the Next Step
If you are struggling after a loss and would like professional support, Cottonwood Psychiatry offers a safe, compassionate environment for healing. Dr. McGuire and her team are here to help you process grief and rediscover a sense of balance.
To begin your path toward healing, schedule a consultation online today.
Dr. Colleen McGuire, DO, is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a holistic approach to mental health. She completed her medical training at Touro University and residency at the University of Colorado, where she served as Chief Resident. Specializing in trauma, midlife hormonal issues, and alternatives to medication, Dr. McGuire integrates therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Licensed in multiple states, she is known for her empathetic, client-centered care and dedication to mentoring. Outside work, she enjoys piano, swimming, and spending time with animals.
Schedule an Appointment
Start your journey toward the life you’ve always wanted with the help of Dr. McGuire at Cottonwood Psychiatry, and contact us today. Fill out our contact form below.
Please note that we do not do after-hours calls. If you are in an emergency situation please call an emergency hotline.