Bereavement Therapy in Manchester
Grief looks different for everyone. Whether your loss was recent or long ago, expected or sudden, it’s common to feel lost, numb, angry, or overwhelmed. Therapy can offer a space to express what you may not feel able to share elsewhere, and to find your own way through the experience of loss.
​
As a BACP-registered therapist, I offer one-to-one bereavement counselling in Manchester. Together, we can talk about your loss in a way that feels manageable, whether that means speaking openly or simply sitting with the weight of it for a while. There’s no right way to grieve, and no rush to move on.
​
If you’d like to talk about how therapy might support you through grief, I’m here when you're ready.
Understanding Bereavement
Grief is a natural response to loss, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to live with. You might feel sadness, anger, guilt, confusion or numbness. Some days may feel manageable, others completely overwhelming. Even when the people around you are kind and supportive, it can still feel as though no one fully understands what you're going through.
​
Bereavement can also bring unexpected emotions, relief, resentment, or a loss of direction. You may be grieving a person, but also the life you had, the version of yourself you were with them, or the future you expected to share. Grief is not linear, and there is no right way to experience it.
​
Whether your loss was recent or years ago, therapy can offer a space to make sense of what this loss means to you.
How Bereavement Therapy Can Help
Therapy provides a calm and confidential space to talk about your grief in a way that’s honest, safe and free of expectations. You don’t need to be strong, or to have moved on. You can show up exactly as you are.
​
Together, we might explore:
-
How grief is showing up emotionally, physically or mentally
-
The impact of your loss on your identity and relationships
-
Feelings that feel hard to talk about elsewhere
-
Ways to honour the person or relationship you’ve lost
-
What it might mean to live with the loss, rather than get over it
​
Bereavement therapy is not about fixing or rushing anything. It’s about giving your grief space, finding words for your experience and allowing the process to unfold in its own time.
​
It can also offer relief from the pressure to “carry on” when things don’t feel okay. Over time, therapy can help you reconnect with your feelings, your memories and your sense of self.
My Approach
Grief doesn’t follow a set pattern, and I won’t expect you to talk about anything before you're ready. Some people come to therapy with strong, clear feelings. Others feel flat, confused or disconnected. However your grief shows up, we’ll work with that.
​
My approach is person-centred, which means I’ll take the time to understand what this loss means for you. That might involve talking about the person who died, how the loss has affected your daily life, or how it connects to other parts of your past. You won’t be rushed or asked to follow a particular process.
​
When it’s helpful, I may use elements of Transactional Analysis (TA) or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), especially if grief is mixed with trauma, guilt or long-standing patterns. But therapy is not about getting to a solution — it’s about making space for what’s hard, and finding ways to carry it that feel more manageable.
Why work with me
I’m a Trauma-Informed Level-4 Certified, BACP-registered therapist (you can see my credentials here​) with experience supporting people through many forms of grief, whether that’s the death of a loved one, a complicated or unresolved relationship, or a loss that others may not fully recognise.
You don’t need to pretend to be coping or hold things together. I offer a safe, steady space where your feelings are allowed to take up room.
Together, we can begin to explore what life looks like in the aftermath of loss, without rushing or forcing the process.
Ready to begin?
If you’re grieving and want support, I offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation. You’re welcome to share what’s on your mind, ask questions or just see how it feels to connect.
​
There’s no right place to start. Just a chance to speak, be heard and see whether therapy might feel helpful for you.
Based in North Manchester, here to support you
I’m based in North Manchester and work with clients from all across the surrounding areas, including Whitefield, Prestwich, Bury, Radcliffe, Crumpsall, Blackley, Middleton, Salford, and many more local communities. Wherever you're from, if you're looking for support with your mental health, you're welcome here.​
​
Finding me
I offer in-person counselling sessions at my therapy room in Whitefield, North Manchester. It’s a calm, private space that’s easy to reach from across the city and surrounding areas.
Address: 229 Bury New Rd, Whitefield, Manchester M45 8GW. Find me with W3W or via Google
Getting here:
-
By car: Free on-street parking is usually available nearby.
-
By tram: About a 30-second walk from the Whitefield Metrolink stop.
-
By bus: Local buses stop just a short walk away.
If you’re unsure about directions or access, feel free to get in touch - I’m happy to help you plan your visit.
​
Not local?
If you're not based near North Manchester - or simply prefer not to travel - I also offer counselling sessions by telephone or secure video call. This can be a helpful option if you're juggling a busy schedule, live further away, or feel more comfortable accessing support from home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Bereavement Counselling
​
How long does the grieving process typically last?
Grief is a deeply personal experience, and the duration of the grieving process can vary greatly from person to person. Some people may find their emotions begin to ease within a few months, while others may continue to experience intense grief for years. As your therapist, I will work closely with you to assess your needs and provide ongoing support throughout your healing journey.
​
Can bereavement therapy help me if I lost someone a long time ago?
Yes, bereavement therapy can be beneficial at any stage of the grieving process, even if the loss occurred a long time ago. Grief can sometimes be delayed or resurface years after the loss, and therapy can provide a safe and supportive environment for you to process your emotions and work towards healing.
​
Can you help me cope with complex grief?
Complex grief is a prolonged and intense form of grief that can interfere with daily functioning and well-being. As an experienced therapist specialising in bereavement, I am well-equipped to provide compassionate, personalised care to support your healing journey through complicated grief. By utilising a range of evidence-based therapeutic frameworks, I aim to help you process your emotions, develop effective coping strategies, and build resilience for lasting recovery.
​
Can bereavement therapy be provided online or over the phone?
Yes, I offer various modes of interaction to accommodate your needs and preferences. In addition to face-to-face sessions, I provide therapy via Zoom/Video call, telephone, and walking therapy. This flexibility allows you to access the support you need in a manner that is most comfortable and convenient for you.
​
Can you help family members or friends of someone who is grieving?
Absolutely. Supporting a loved one who is grieving can be challenging, and it is essential to care for your well-being as well. I can provide guidance and support to help you understand your loved one's experience and develop strategies for providing compassionate care while maintaining your own mental and emotional health.
If you have any further questions or concerns about bereavement therapy, please don't hesitate to contact me. I am here to provide warm, professional support to help you navigate your recovery journey with confidence and compassion.
Related Therapies
​Every individual's bereavement journey is unique and may require different approaches to address their specific challenges. That's why I offer a range of related therapies tailored to your needs, all delivered with warmth, compassion, and understanding. If you haven't found what you're looking for here, these therapies may also help.
​
​
​
Useful Resources
At Jodie James Counselling Services, I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help for depression can be incredibly challenging. I want you to know that you're not alone, and there are many resources available to support you on your journey towards healing. If you're not quite ready to get in touch with us, I encourage you to explore these external resources that may provide valuable insights, coping strategies, and comfort during this time:
​
Bereavement Help, Support & Guidance
View all Relationship and Life Transition articles
