Online Pet Loss Counseling in Texas
Compassionate therapy for adults grieving the loss of a beloved companion animal. Available throughout Texas through secure online counseling, with in-person sessions available in Austin.
You Are Not Alone in Your Grief
Your pet was more than a companion. They were part of your family, your daily life, and your emotional world. When a beloved animal dies, the grief can feel overwhelming, especially when others don't understand the depth of the bond you shared.
Whether you are coping with a recent loss, facing an end-of-life decision, experiencing anticipatory grief, or struggling with guilt or grief after your pet has died, pet loss counseling can provide a place to process your emotions with someone who understands the significance of the human-animal bond.
Pet Loss Counseling Can Help With
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Anticipatory grief when a pet is aging or seriously ill
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End-of-life and euthanasia decisions
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Guilt, regret, or second-guessing after euthanasia
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Sudden or traumatic pet loss
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Difficult memories surrounding your pet's illness or death
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Grief that feels misunderstood or minimized by others
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Adjusting to changes in daily routines, identity, and purpose
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Learning how to carry the bond with your pet forward while adapting to life after their death
Pet Loss Therapy With a Texas LCSW
I’m Nicole Vykoukal, LCSW, a Texas psychotherapist with a special focus on pet loss, grief, traumatic loss, and the human-animal bond. I provide compassionate, grief-informed therapy tailored to each person’s unique relationship with their pet and their experience of loss.
When a pet’s death was sudden, frightening, or traumatic, I can also incorporate Brainspotting to help address distress connected to the circumstances of the loss.
Online Pet Loss Counseling Throughout Texas
I provide secure telehealth for adults throughout Texas, with in-person sessions available in Austin. Individual sessions last 60 minutes and cost $185. My practice is private pay and out-of-network; superbills are available when applicable.
Ways to Work Together
Individual Pet Loss Counseling, $185
60 minute sessions for adults navigating pet loss, anticipatory grief, euthanasia decisions, or traumatic loss.
Couples Pet Loss Counseling, $250
60 minute supportive session for couples grieving together and navigating different ways of processing loss.
Pet Loss Support Group, $25
Meets virtually on the second Thursday of each month from 6–7 PM CT. Registration is required at least 24 hours in advance.
Learn More About the Pet Loss Support Group →
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you provide pet loss counseling throughout Texas?
Yes. I provide secure online pet loss counseling for adults throughout Texas. In-person sessions are also available in Austin.
Is grief over a pet something therapy can help with?
Yes. The loss of a companion animal can be a profound grief experience. Counseling can provide a supportive space to process your grief, understand your reactions, and adjust to life after your loss.
Can I start pet loss counseling before my pet dies?
Yes. Pet loss counseling can support you through anticipatory grief when a pet is aging or seriously ill, including the emotions and difficult decisions that can arise near the end of a pet’s life.
Can counseling help with guilt after euthanasia?
Yes. Guilt, regret, and second-guessing are common experiences after euthanasia. Counseling can provide space to explore these feelings while considering the circumstances, your pet’s quality of life, and the care and love that informed your decisions.
What if my pet died suddenly or traumatically?
Sudden or traumatic pet loss can involve both grief and trauma responses. Therapy can provide support for processing the loss and distressing memories surrounding the death. When appropriate, I may also incorporate Brainspotting into our work.
What is the difference between individual pet loss counseling and the Pet Loss Support Group?
Individual counseling provides personalized therapeutic support focused on your unique grief experience. The Texas Pet Loss Support Group offers a supportive space to connect with others who understand pet loss and is not intended for detailed trauma processing.
Pet Loss Support Resources
Grief can feel isolating, and additional support can be helpful between sessions or when you are not ready to begin counseling. I have gathered books, websites, hotlines, and other resources for people coping with the death of a pet or anticipatory grief.