Trauma-Informed Grief Counselling

New hope after loss

If you are reading these words after the loss of a loved one, I want to offer my heartfelt condolences. I am sorry for your loss. Whatever form your grief takes, you are here for a reason, and I invite you to explore how I can support you on this journey.

Grief is a natural and valid response to loss.

Loss comes in many forms—sometimes it’s something tangible, like the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, a miscarriage or abortion, or changes in health or career. Other times, it’s more intangible—like losing a sense of identity, safety, or a future you once imagined. Trauma-informed grief counselling recognizes these many layers of grief and how earlier life experiences or trauma can shape your healing journey.

Including those aspects of grief that are excluded

Some types of grief are often overlooked or minimized. This is called disenfranchised grief—grieving the loss of a friendship, a queer or same-sex partner, a stigmatized experience, or other deeply personal losses that others may not understand or acknowledge. These losses can feel isolating, especially when they aren’t recognized within your community or culture. My approach to grief counselling sees these social patterns and honours all grief, including those often left unspoken.

Have you noticed how some losses feel harder to talk about—or even harder to recognize?

Trauma-informed grief counselling that recognizes the interconnectedness between trauma and loss

Trauma and grief are deeply connected. You might be grieving not only external losses but also loss of trust, connection, or parts of yourself. If you’ve experienced trauma before, your grief may feel more complex and can resurface with new losses or life transitions. That’s why I integrate trauma-informed care into my grief counselling approach—to support you holistically.

Close-up of a man’s hands resting on his lap during a trauma-informed grief counselling session in a counselling office.

Grief doesn’t just touch your heart—it can shake your nervous system, sometimes pushing you beyond what feels manageable. You might notice anxiety, numbness, or waves of intense emotions that come out of nowhere. Our approach helps you gently widen your “window of tolerance”—that safe space where you can stay grounded and present even when feelings run high.

Have you ever noticed moments when anxiety arose because feeling the pain of grief felt too overwhelming?

My work is rooted in polyvagal theory, which helps explain how your nervous system reacts to feelings of safety and threat. Understanding these natural responses can help you make sense of sudden panic, withdrawal, or disconnection while learning new ways to soothe yourself with kindness and care.

Benefits of trauma-informed grief counselling

Grief doesn’t just touch your heart—it can shake your nervous system, sometimes pushing you beyond what feels manageable. You might notice anxiety, numbness, or waves of intense emotions that come out of nowhere. My approach helps you gently widen your “window of tolerance”—that safe space where you can stay grounded and present even when feelings run high.

Have you ever noticed moments when anxiety arose because feeling the pain of grief felt too overwhelming?

My approach to trauma-informed grief counselling is rooted in polyvagal theory, which helps explain how your nervous system reacts to feelings of safety and threat. Understanding these natural responses can help you make sense of sudden panic, withdrawal, or disconnection while learning new ways to soothe yourself with kindness and care.

What you'll receive in trauma-informed grief counselling

While everyone’s journey and goals are unique, here are some ways clients often experience growth and healing through grief counselling:

These elements create a supportive framework to help you navigate grief with more stability, insight, and empowerment.

About Natalie

The image shows Natalie - a experienced trauma counsellor in Calgary.

Natalie Jovanic is a trauma-informed counsellor and coach with over 14 years of experience supporting individuals through trauma, grief, and loss. Their approach integrates evidence-based methodologies, including EMDR and parts work therapy, to help you process grief, regulate your nervous system, and reconnect with your inner strengths. Sessions are collaborative, paced with care, and always rooted in safety, choice, and resilience.

What sets my trauma-informed grief counselling apart

Experienced professional

With over 14 years of experience, you’ll receive skilled, grounded care tailored to your unique needs.

Personalized, trauma-informed approach

Your journey with grief is unique, and so is your healing journey. Sessions are paced collaboratively and respect your boundaries, history, and what feels most supportive to you.

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Empowerment through inner work

Grief can disconnect you from your sense of self. My approach helps you reconnect with your inner voice and strengths—rebuilding self-trust, confidence, and inner stability.

A gentle, inclusive approach

My trauma-informed grief counselling is rooted in anti-oppressive principles. I honour the cultural, systemic, and personal contexts that shape your experience of loss—including the impacts of racism, colonization, gender-based violence, and other forms of marginalization. I strive to create a space that is respectful, inclusive, and affirming of who you are.

Accessible support that respects your circumstances

I offer variable pricing to make grief counselling accessible to diverse clients. This approach respects your financial circumstances while supporting your right to healing and growth.

If this speaks to you, I am here.

If not, that’s okay too. Healing is a personal journey, and you get to decide what’s right for you.

If you feel called to reach out, I’d be honoured to get to know you and support you on your path. You can book your free consultation through my secure online booking system. Or, if you prefer, feel free to send a quick message via my contact page.