Grief Counselling in Kitchener-Waterloo

You Don’t Have to "Move On" Yet

Grief has no timeline. I offer a safe, culturally inclusive space to process your loss, whether it happened yesterday or years ago.

We Often Think Grief is Just About Death. It Is So Much More.

People often tell you to "give it time." But time can feel incredibly heavy when you are carrying a loss.

We usually associate grief with funerals. But the truth is that you can grieve people who are still alive. You can even grieve versions of yourself that no longer exist.

Real grief is messy. It is the pain of a friendship or romantic relationship ending. It is the confusion of shifting your understanding of the world or leaving a community. It is the deep sorrow of a life path that did not turn out the way you planned.

You might be mourning a relationship with a parent who is physically here but emotionally absent. You might be grieving the loss of your culture or the home you left behind.

This is a valid and deep loss. Even if the world does not send a card for it.

At Intentional Living Psychotherapy, I hold space for all of it. You do not have to minimize your pain just because it does not fit the standard definition of loss.

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Grief Looks Different for Everyone

Grief is not a straight line. It is a messy and non-linear process. Especially for high-achievers or those from cultures where stoicism is valued, grief can show up in unexpected ways:

Brain Fog

You walk into a room and forget why. You struggle to focus on simple work tasks. You might feel a sense of derealization like the world around you is not quite real.
Physical Pain

Grief lives in the body. You might experience a heavy chest or a "lump" in your throat that will not go away. You might feel deep fatigue or have unexplained digestive issues.
Numbness & Avoidance

You keep yourself busy 24/7 to avoid feeling the pain. You might feel "fine" one minute and completely hollow the next. This is a common survival response.
Loss of Identity

Who are you without this person or this role? You might feel untethered. You might question your purpose, your faith, or your future path.
Unexpected Anger

You feel snapping points of rage. You might be angry at the doctors, your family, or even the person who left. Then you feel guilty for being angry.

How We Navigate Grief Together

I move beyond the standard "Five Stages of Grief." My approach is about integrating the loss into your life story. This allows you to carry it without being crushed by it.

Western culture often tells us to "let go." I believe in finding ways to keep a relationship with who you have lost. We will explore how to honour their memory. We will find ways to keep their influence in your life that feel healthy and comforting rather than painful.
Often there is a young or vulnerable part of us that is stuck in the moment of loss. Using IFS, we gently visit this part to offer it comfort and safety. This allows you to stop "bracing" against the pain and start processing it.
Talking is not always enough. When grief gets stuck in your nervous system it can look like chronic anxiety or exhaustion. We will use gentle body-based tools to help you physically "exhale" the grief you have been holding.
For children of immigrants, grief is often layered. You might be grieving a parent you had a complicated relationship with. You might be grieving the loss of your culture or homeland. I hold space for the complexity. You are allowed to love and mourn at the same time.

Therapy That Fits Your Life

I know that reaching out is the hardest step. I strive to make the process as warm and accessible as possible.

In-Person in Kitchener-Waterloo:

For those who crave a physical safe space, my office is located at 900 Guelph Street. It’s a quiet, welcoming environment where you can leave the world at the door.
Online Therapy Across Ontario:

If you have a busy schedule or feel safer in your own home, I offer secure video sessions. This is a great option for clients in Toronto, Brampton, or surrounding areas.
Culturally Inclusive:

You shouldn't have to explain your culture to your therapist. I hold space for the nuances of your identity, faith, and family dynamics, ensuring you feel seen in your wholeness.

Meet Ruba

I know that reaching out when you are grieving takes immense courage.

As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I specialize in supporting individuals through "silent grief." This is the kind of grief that the world stops asking about after a few weeks. My practice is a sanctuary where you can bring your sadness, your anger, and your confusion without fear of judgment.

No Timelines: I will never look at my watch and tell you that you should be "better by now."
Holding the Silence: Sometimes there are no words. I am comfortable sitting with you in the quiet until you are ready to speak.
Culturally Affirming: I understand the specific rituals and pressures that come with grieving in different cultures.

A young woman with long dark hair and light highlights, smiling and looking at the camera, standing outdoors with green foliage in the background.

How Therapy Works

1. Understanding Your Story

In our first session, I’ll learn about your experiences, challenges, and goals at a pace that feels comfortable.
2. Creating a Personalized Plan

Together, we’ll build a personalized plan with strategies to help you heal, grow, and navigate life’s challenges
3. Doing the Work

Through reflection and new skills, you’ll gain insight, break patterns, and make meaningful changes in your life.
4. Tracking Progress

We’ll adjust as needed, celebrate growth, and ensure therapy continues to meet your evolving needs.
5. Moving Forward

When you’re ready, we’ll explore what’s next, whether that’s reducing sessions, setting new goals, or confidently moving on.