Pet Loss Counselling

Understanding and coping with the loss of a beloved pet.

The bond with our pets is strong, and facing the prospect of losing them can be crippling. There are times when their loss is unexpected, or we may need to make the decision to euthanise them due to the ageing process or health issues affecting their quality of life.

Responses to pet loss can be very different, with some people seemingly able to move on quickly and without any issues. For others, losing a pet can mirror the loss of a human loved one and bring about feelings of extreme guilt, loneliness and sadness. When facing these difficult times, it can be helpful to have the support of a pet loss counsellor.

Losing a pet can be a heart-wrenching experience, but pet loss counselling offers a path to healing. By acknowledging the grief and providing compassionate support, counselling helps individuals honour their beloved pets and find peace in the midst of loss.

A qualified Animal Companion Doula, I combine this education and experience, along with my own life experience and further pet loss specific study to provide a safe space for individuals to express their feelings and work through them. Through provision of client-centred care, validation of emotions and empathetic listening, clients are supported to process their experience and find a sense of calm and understanding.

If you are struggling with the loss of a pet, seeking the help of a pet loss counsellor can be a valuable step toward emotional recovery.

FAQ’s

We have put together a list of the most frequently asked questions.

Why pet loss?

As an animal lover, I understand the bond between people and pets. All I wanted to be when I was young was a vet. My brother and I spent our younger years surrounded by animals, whether they were your everyday pets such as cats and dogs, guppies and goldfish, to farmyard friends such as chickens, ducks, geese and turkeys. We witnessed the miracles of nature and watched our pets give birth, baby chickens, ducks, geese and turkeys hatch and saw the parents raise their young.

Of course, it also meant dealing with their death. Many times, I have had to make the difficult decision regarding euthanasia, and one occasion in particular, witnessed the traumatic death of a beloved family dog.

Losing a pet is tough. Not only do we have the feelings of loss and loneliness, it can also be complicated with guilt when we have made the decision to euthanise. We don’t always feel comfortable or supported in talking about how we are feeling to those around us.

My passion is helping people work through pet related end-of-life decisions, grief and loss. My love for animals, along with life experience and qualifications, enables me to provide a safe, empathetic space for clients.

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on your circumstances. Each booking is based on single session methodology, meaning every session is conducted as if it is the only session.

Additional sessions are booked following consultation at the end of each appointment. Everyone is different and you might find you need one session, or you might need 4 or more.

Even if you decide not to book another session at the time of consultation, you are able to book in at any time in the future.

Can you see me if I have a mental health plan from my GP?

Your mental health plan provides you with a Medicare rebate option with eligible allied health professionals. I can assist you, but at the moment counselling is unfortunately unable to be claimed back through Medicare, meaning fees would be payable.

Will you tell me what to do?

I will not tell you what to do, but rather work with you and support you to work through your loss.

What about confidentiality?

The same confidentiality requirements and assurance apply as with in-office sessions. View can read our privacy policy here.

Do I have to be alone?

For every session, you would be expected to be alone and without the potential for disturbance. If your session is online, you would need to be in a safe, quiet space, free from disturbance. You would also be required to wear a headset or earbuds.

Can I record my session?

Your sessions will be the same as if they are conducted in an office. In this situation, they would not be recorded and for the same reasons, recording our walk and talk or telehealth sessions is not permitted.