Counselling for families and carers

Supporting someone with an incurable illness can bring many emotions and challenges. Our counselling team offers a safe, confidential space where family members and carers can talk openly, feel heard, and get support.

Get support

Whether you’re adjusting to a diagnosis, supporting someone through illness, or coping with loss and grief, we’re here for you.

Sessions can take place at our Therapy & Wellbeing Centre, by phone or video call, or at another suitable location where appropriate.

You’ll be supported by qualified counsellors from our team and trusted counselling partners who provide emotional support in a safe and confidential environment.

We offer up to 12 counselling or bereavement support sessions, and these are usually fortnightly appointments. After your sessions end, we can help you access other support available if you need it.

A man talking to a counsellor in a private outdoor area.

Understanding your emotions

Many people experience feelings of grief long before a death occurs.

Known as anticipatory grief, this can include grieving the future you had imagined, changes in relationships or lost opportunities.

Asking for support doesn't mean you're not coping. Caring for someone with an incurable illness can be emotionally challenging, and there is no right or wrong way to feel. Counselling provides a safe, confidential space to talk openly, make sense of your thoughts and feelings, and get the support you need.

How counselling can help

  • Cope with change and uncertainty
  • Talk through difficult feelings
  • Manage stress, anxiety or low mood
  • Explore grief and loss
  • Adjust to caring responsibilities

Accessing counselling

You can access our counselling service whether or not your family member is receiving care from us.

To find out more or arrange support, our Family Support Team are available Monday to Friday from 8 am to 6 pm.

Two nurses stand at the open entrance of Katharine House Hospice, smiling.
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