The 5 Stages of Grief: A Guide from Narrative Therapy
Grief is one of the most profound experiences we go through as human beings. It is not an illness to be cured, but a natural process of love and loss that deserves to be honored, accompanied, and understood.
The 5 stages of grief
Click on each stage to learn more about it. Remember: these stages are not linear or mandatory. Every person experiences grief in their own unique way.
Grief isn't linear
While the Kübler-Ross model describes five stages, it's important to know that grief doesn't work like a checklist. It's not a straight path from point A to point B.
You might feel anger one day, acceptance the next, and return to denial a week later. You can experience several emotions at the same time. You might skip stages or live them in a completely different order. All of that is normal.
In narrative therapy, we understand that each person has their own story of loss and their own way of moving through it. There is no "manual" for correct grieving. What exists is your process, your pace, and your story — and all of them deserve to be respected.
The path of grief has twists and turns. Every story is different.
When to seek professional help
Grief is a natural process, but sometimes we need support to navigate it. Consider seeking professional help if:
- The pain doesn't diminish or intensifies as months go by
- You feel unable to function in daily life (work, relationships, self-care)
- You turn to alcohol, drugs, or other substances to cope with the pain
- You have thoughts of harming yourself or that life has no meaning
- You completely isolate yourself from people who care about you
- You feel intense and constant guilt related to the loss
- You avoid everything that reminds you of the person who passed
- Several months have passed and you feel "stuck" in one stage
Seeking help is not a sign of weakness. It is an act of self-care and respect for your process. In narrative therapy, we work together so you can honor your loss while reconnecting with life and with the stories that define you beyond the pain. I offer sessions in English for expats and digital nomads living in Mexico City.
Your story deserves to be heard
If you're going through a grief process and feel you need support, I'm here for you. You don't have to go through it alone.
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