Pet Loss Grief Counseling in Virginia
Support after the death of an animal who was family. Counseling that takes your grief seriously, by secure Telehealth across Virginia. and in-person in Northern Virginia.
Takes about two minutes. No commitment. We reply within one business day.
"It was just a pet" is the wrong sentence
For many people, a pet is the one who was there every single day, through everything. Losing them leaves a silence in the house and a grief that others can brush off.
People often come to counseling for:
The death of a dog, cat, horse, or any animal who was part of your daily life
Guilt about euthanasia decisions, timing, or what you did or didn't notice
A sudden or traumatic loss, or an animal who went missing
Grief that feels bigger than the people around you think it should be
Losing a pet who was tied to another loss: a late spouse, a childhood home, a hard chapter
Loneliness and a broken routine, especially if you live alone
Deciding whether, or when, to welcome another animal
Grief that counts
We treat pet loss as what it is: the loss of a relationship. Counseling gives you a place to talk about your animal and what they meant without anyone minimizing it, work through guilt and second-guessing, and find a way to live in the quieter house. Grief that other people don't recognize often needs a witness more than anything else. We can be that.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. It's common, and the people who come are usually relieved to stop defending their grief.
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That guilt is one of the most common things we hear. Making a hard decision out of love is still love. We can work through it.
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There's no right answer or right timeline. We can help you figure out yours.
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20 minute consultations are free to ensure we are what you are looking for. Session rates vary by counselor, see their rates in their profiles linked below.
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We’re out-of-network, and we provide superbills so you can request reimbursement from your insurance company. Reimbursement varies by plan, so ask your provider today what your out-of-network mental health benefits cover.
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Collaborative, honest, and straightforward. We're here to guide the process, bring ideas to the table, and keep things moving. Click here or scroll down to learn more.
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Right now! Reach out today by filling out the form below and we will contact you asap to set up your consultation.
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Reach out today by filling out the form below and we will contact you asap to set up your consultation. We aim to respond quickly—usually within one business day.
Work with Us
Sydney Jenish, Resident in Counseling
Identity Issues
Over Thinkers
Self-Critics
Chronic Illness
Teens 14+
Evening and Weekend Availability
Karina Garcia, Licensed Professional Counselor
Trauma-focused
Immigration
Intergenerational Culture Issues
Cultural Identity Issues
Domestic Violence
In English or Spanish
Blake McDonald, M.Ed.
People Pleasing
Time Management
Focusing
Emotional Regulation
Self Worth
In Person availability starting soon