Photo of Jan Collins, Registered Social Worker in K2G, ON
Jan Collins
Registered Social Worker, MSW, LSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Nepean, ON K2G
Sometimes, life is just easier when someone is on the journey with you. If you can identify with feelings such as grief, loss, hopelessness, overwhelm, and "not enough", you are not alone. My approach is relational and is determined by the unique needs of each one of my clients. I would love to hear your story and begin this journey with you.
Sometimes, life is just easier when someone is on the journey with you. If you can identify with feelings such as grief, loss, hopelessness, overwhelm, and "not enough", you are not alone. My approach is relational and is determined by the unique needs of each one of my clients. I would love to hear your story and begin this journey with you.
(343) 305-1486 View (343) 305-1486
Photo of Kendra Grant, Registered Psychotherapist in K2G, ON
Kendra Grant
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2G  (Online Only)
My practice areas include grief and bereavement, caregiver stress, anxiety, trauma, burnout, and depression.
Have you undergone a significant change or loss recently? You may be feeling sad, angry, relieved, shocked, or unsure about if what you’re feeling is normal within your experience. Grief is mentally and physically exhausting and I recognize the strength and courage it takes to reach out to someone for help. You deserve a space to be heard and have someone understand the pain and struggle you’re experiencing. I’m here to walk with you in those emotions and help you navigate them. Finding a therapist whom you feel hears and understands you is important.
My practice areas include grief and bereavement, caregiver stress, anxiety, trauma, burnout, and depression.
Have you undergone a significant change or loss recently? You may be feeling sad, angry, relieved, shocked, or unsure about if what you’re feeling is normal within your experience. Grief is mentally and physically exhausting and I recognize the strength and courage it takes to reach out to someone for help. You deserve a space to be heard and have someone understand the pain and struggle you’re experiencing. I’m here to walk with you in those emotions and help you navigate them. Finding a therapist whom you feel hears and understands you is important.
(343) 307-0908 View (343) 307-0908
Photo of Mandie Robertson, Registered Psychotherapist in K2G, ON
Mandie Robertson
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2G
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with extensive experience working with both individuals and couples who are struggling with personal and relational difficulties. I focus on treating a number of mental health concerns including, but not limited to: depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, grief, relationship struggles, parenting, and perinatal issues. I am also passionate about supporting individuals and couples experiencing difficulties and challenges related to family creation and parenthood such as infertility, miscarriage/stillbirth, infant loss, postpartum depression and anxiety, and family adjustment issues.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with extensive experience working with both individuals and couples who are struggling with personal and relational difficulties. I focus on treating a number of mental health concerns including, but not limited to: depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, grief, relationship struggles, parenting, and perinatal issues. I am also passionate about supporting individuals and couples experiencing difficulties and challenges related to family creation and parenthood such as infertility, miscarriage/stillbirth, infant loss, postpartum depression and anxiety, and family adjustment issues.
(613) 801-8556 View (613) 801-8556
Photo of Kelly McGuire in K2G, ON
Kelly McGuire
MA, CH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2G
Counsellor and Certified Hypnotherapist - Using kind and creative tools, I offer counselling and/or hypnotherapy for women experiencing anxiety, stress, fears, phobias, shame, guilt, loss of sense of self, grief, sadness, stressful transitions, relationship difficulties, panic, sleep disturbances and self esteem issues. After over 25 years of Counselling experience, I understand that when we are hurting, we have a deep need to feel heard and valued, while at the same time find relief and support. I am a proud member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association as well as the National Guild of Hypnotists.
Counsellor and Certified Hypnotherapist - Using kind and creative tools, I offer counselling and/or hypnotherapy for women experiencing anxiety, stress, fears, phobias, shame, guilt, loss of sense of self, grief, sadness, stressful transitions, relationship difficulties, panic, sleep disturbances and self esteem issues. After over 25 years of Counselling experience, I understand that when we are hurting, we have a deep need to feel heard and valued, while at the same time find relief and support. I am a proud member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association as well as the National Guild of Hypnotists.
(613) 704-5934 View (613) 704-5934
Photo of Joelle Ciccarelli, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in K2G, ON
Joelle Ciccarelli
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), Bsc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2G
Welcoming new clients! I support folks with eating disorders, neurodivergence (ADHD and ASD), relational challenges, developmental trauma/family of origin issues, identity challenges, self-esteem and grief. My intention is to hold a warm and welcoming space for you to present yourself authentically and unapologetically. I know therapy can be vulnerable, uncomfortable and challenging for some. I am here with you every step of the way without judgment, and together, we can collaborate to navigate your goals.
Welcoming new clients! I support folks with eating disorders, neurodivergence (ADHD and ASD), relational challenges, developmental trauma/family of origin issues, identity challenges, self-esteem and grief. My intention is to hold a warm and welcoming space for you to present yourself authentically and unapologetically. I know therapy can be vulnerable, uncomfortable and challenging for some. I am here with you every step of the way without judgment, and together, we can collaborate to navigate your goals.
(343) 312-5607 View (343) 312-5607
Photo of Catherine A. Stafford, Psychologist in K2G, ON
Catherine A. Stafford
Psychologist, MEd, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2G
PLEASE NOTE: CURRENTLY ONLY ACCEPTING CLIENTS REFERRED DIRECTLY BY FERTILITY CLINICS. Infertility and Reproductive Health Counselling is a central focus for my practice: Individuals and couples facing the stresses of infertility and its treatments, loss, grief, difficult decision-making, etc. I provide the mandatory counselling assessment sessions required by law preceding infertility treatments. My counselling style is collaborative and in every situation, we focus on building hope, courage and resilience in the face of challenges and loss.
PLEASE NOTE: CURRENTLY ONLY ACCEPTING CLIENTS REFERRED DIRECTLY BY FERTILITY CLINICS. Infertility and Reproductive Health Counselling is a central focus for my practice: Individuals and couples facing the stresses of infertility and its treatments, loss, grief, difficult decision-making, etc. I provide the mandatory counselling assessment sessions required by law preceding infertility treatments. My counselling style is collaborative and in every situation, we focus on building hope, courage and resilience in the face of challenges and loss.
(855) 908-4086 View (855) 908-4086
Photo of Phaedra Gryz, Registered Psychotherapist in K2G, ON
Phaedra Gryz
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2G
Accepting new clients. We all struggle at one time or another, facing challenges that make us wonder where to turn. Seeking therapy can be an extremely rewarding experience as you learn to navigate these challenges and uncover your strengths while taking strides towards your ideal self. I work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, with a specialization in life transitions and perinatal mental health. My approach is empathic, and non-judgemental with a strong client focus. I utilize techniques from positive psychology, narrative therapy, CBT, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Accepting new clients. We all struggle at one time or another, facing challenges that make us wonder where to turn. Seeking therapy can be an extremely rewarding experience as you learn to navigate these challenges and uncover your strengths while taking strides towards your ideal self. I work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, with a specialization in life transitions and perinatal mental health. My approach is empathic, and non-judgemental with a strong client focus. I utilize techniques from positive psychology, narrative therapy, CBT, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
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Photo of Cathy Hum, Registered Social Worker in K2G, ON
Cathy Hum
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MEd, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2G
Choosing to come for counselling can be an intimidating task but rest assured that I will offer you and your loved ones an environment that is caring, non-judgmental and professional. Together, we will make a plan and set goals to help you get back on track. I offer counselling to children (10 years+), youth, and adults; individually or as a family, in the areas of anxiety, depression, anger, and grief. My areas of focus include mental health, substance misuse, partner violence, parenting, relationship difficulties, work place stress, racialized populations and forensic clientele.
Choosing to come for counselling can be an intimidating task but rest assured that I will offer you and your loved ones an environment that is caring, non-judgmental and professional. Together, we will make a plan and set goals to help you get back on track. I offer counselling to children (10 years+), youth, and adults; individually or as a family, in the areas of anxiety, depression, anger, and grief. My areas of focus include mental health, substance misuse, partner violence, parenting, relationship difficulties, work place stress, racialized populations and forensic clientele.
(613) 706-4021 View (613) 706-4021
Photo of Val Albrecht, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in K2G, ON
Val Albrecht
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BHSc, RM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2G
Working through life’s challenges can sometimes be overwhelming, leaving us feeling befuddled and in emotional chaos. This can make even the simplest tasks seem monumental. I work with adults from all walks of life on issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, parenting concerns, relationships issues, birth trauma, and major life-changes. I can help you get from stuck to thriving. I work using a humanistic approach including psychodynamic methods and attachment theory, experiential, narrative, solution-focused and Gestalt techniques.
Working through life’s challenges can sometimes be overwhelming, leaving us feeling befuddled and in emotional chaos. This can make even the simplest tasks seem monumental. I work with adults from all walks of life on issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, parenting concerns, relationships issues, birth trauma, and major life-changes. I can help you get from stuck to thriving. I work using a humanistic approach including psychodynamic methods and attachment theory, experiential, narrative, solution-focused and Gestalt techniques.
(343) 341-0855 View (343) 341-0855
Photo of Thrive Cognitive Therapy (Dr. Thomas Newman), Psychologist in K2G, ON
Thrive Cognitive Therapy (Dr. Thomas Newman)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2G
Treatment concerns include: OCD, Phobias, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, GAD, Depression, Anger Management, Stress, Low Self Esteem, Emotion Regulation, Grief, Performance Issues etc.
Life doesn’t have to be filled with anxiety and depression. Life is good! There is hope and we know it. The priority of Thrive is that you will leave therapy feeling motivated and empowered to pursue a life filled with meaning and growth. Dr. Newman is a Clinical Psychologist who helps adolescents and adults achieve positive mental health and growth in all domains of life. At Thrive, you will experience an accepting environment that fosters lasting and impactful changes. Dr. Newman is dedicated to pursuing excellence in providing the most up-to-date, evidenced based therapies in a way that is straightforward and real.
Treatment concerns include: OCD, Phobias, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, GAD, Depression, Anger Management, Stress, Low Self Esteem, Emotion Regulation, Grief, Performance Issues etc.
Life doesn’t have to be filled with anxiety and depression. Life is good! There is hope and we know it. The priority of Thrive is that you will leave therapy feeling motivated and empowered to pursue a life filled with meaning and growth. Dr. Newman is a Clinical Psychologist who helps adolescents and adults achieve positive mental health and growth in all domains of life. At Thrive, you will experience an accepting environment that fosters lasting and impactful changes. Dr. Newman is dedicated to pursuing excellence in providing the most up-to-date, evidenced based therapies in a way that is straightforward and real.
(613) 482-0369 View (613) 482-0369
Photo of Megan Dunkley, Registered Psychotherapist in K2G, ON
Megan Dunkley
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2G
I work with teens and adults from diverse backgrounds facing a range of challenges, including depression, grief, relationship issues, and anxiety.
Sometimes we are faced with challenges that can make it hard to live the life we want. In these difficult periods, therapy can provide an opportunity to connect with another person, explore the problems you may be facing, and figure out a path forward that works for you. My priority is creating a safe space between me and my clients, which means I approach every person and problem with respect, compassion, and without judgement. Regardless of how you feel right now, you (yes, you!) have strengths, expertise, and valuable experiences that I’m here to help you unearth, reclaim, or explore.
I work with teens and adults from diverse backgrounds facing a range of challenges, including depression, grief, relationship issues, and anxiety.
Sometimes we are faced with challenges that can make it hard to live the life we want. In these difficult periods, therapy can provide an opportunity to connect with another person, explore the problems you may be facing, and figure out a path forward that works for you. My priority is creating a safe space between me and my clients, which means I approach every person and problem with respect, compassion, and without judgement. Regardless of how you feel right now, you (yes, you!) have strengths, expertise, and valuable experiences that I’m here to help you unearth, reclaim, or explore.
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Photo of SL Psychotherapy and Wellness - Shannon Lawless, Registered Psychotherapist in K2G, ON
SL Psychotherapy and Wellness - Shannon Lawless
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RMFT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2G
Currently welcoming new clients for virtual and in-person sessions. We are a collection of Psychotherapists (RP, RP(Qualifying) and Clinical interns) who specialize in providing therapy to individuals, couples and families to clients across Ontario. Please look at the gallery of photos to see each of our team members - or seek further information about each provider on our website. We work with themes of sexuality, relational challenges (individual, couple/poly or family context), communication, addiction and substance use, disordered eating, non-monogamy, interethnic partnership, grief and loss, and mental health issues.
Currently welcoming new clients for virtual and in-person sessions. We are a collection of Psychotherapists (RP, RP(Qualifying) and Clinical interns) who specialize in providing therapy to individuals, couples and families to clients across Ontario. Please look at the gallery of photos to see each of our team members - or seek further information about each provider on our website. We work with themes of sexuality, relational challenges (individual, couple/poly or family context), communication, addiction and substance use, disordered eating, non-monogamy, interethnic partnership, grief and loss, and mental health issues.
(343) 305-1114 View (343) 305-1114
Photo of Graham Nichols, Registered Psychotherapist in K2G, ON
Graham Nichols
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2G
If you are like most people these days, there are times when your life just doesn't go smoothly. Maybe you are struggling with high levels of stress, depression, or anxiety, or perhaps an important relationship is feeling off track. Maybe there is a particular situation that you are struggling with, such as the loss of a loved one. If any of these situations sound familiar, I can help. I work with individuals, couples, and families to assist them in identifying and overcoming the obstacles that stand in their way to greater happiness and fulfilment.
If you are like most people these days, there are times when your life just doesn't go smoothly. Maybe you are struggling with high levels of stress, depression, or anxiety, or perhaps an important relationship is feeling off track. Maybe there is a particular situation that you are struggling with, such as the loss of a loved one. If any of these situations sound familiar, I can help. I work with individuals, couples, and families to assist them in identifying and overcoming the obstacles that stand in their way to greater happiness and fulfilment.
(855) 976-2873 View (855) 976-2873
Photo of Coretta Rego, Registered Psychotherapist in K2G, ON
Coretta Rego
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2G  (Online Only)
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, workplace stress, grief, interpersonal conflict or dealing with life transitions, I can help you identify what is causing your current misery and what needs to change to help you thrive.
Are you feeling stuck in life? Have you worked hard and done all the right things but life has not turned out the way you had expected? Perhaps the relationship that you invested your emotional energy in was unsuccessful? Or you find yourself in a career that while financially lucrative is burning you out. Maybe you look at your life and are disappointed at where you find yourself in this stage of life. If you are unhappy in your relationships, career or life direction, you are not alone. You do not have to stay in a place that makes you unhappy. Change is possible!
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, workplace stress, grief, interpersonal conflict or dealing with life transitions, I can help you identify what is causing your current misery and what needs to change to help you thrive.
Are you feeling stuck in life? Have you worked hard and done all the right things but life has not turned out the way you had expected? Perhaps the relationship that you invested your emotional energy in was unsuccessful? Or you find yourself in a career that while financially lucrative is burning you out. Maybe you look at your life and are disappointed at where you find yourself in this stage of life. If you are unhappy in your relationships, career or life direction, you are not alone. You do not have to stay in a place that makes you unhappy. Change is possible!
(289) 207-7986 View (289) 207-7986
Photo of Sara Panuccio, Registered Psychotherapist in K2G, ON
Sara Panuccio
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2G  (Online Only)
I have been working in the areas of mental health and addictions since 2008, specifically with the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Care Centre. My specialties are in substance use and concurrent disorders. Additionally, I work with individuals who are experiencing issues with anxiety, grief, depression, eating disorders, relationships, trauma, and general mental health. My therapeutic approach is warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental. I work collaboratively with my clients to address presenting issues and apply an integrated approach to meet client needs/concerns.
I have been working in the areas of mental health and addictions since 2008, specifically with the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Care Centre. My specialties are in substance use and concurrent disorders. Additionally, I work with individuals who are experiencing issues with anxiety, grief, depression, eating disorders, relationships, trauma, and general mental health. My therapeutic approach is warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental. I work collaboratively with my clients to address presenting issues and apply an integrated approach to meet client needs/concerns.
(613) 699-8157 View (613) 699-8157
Photo of Isabelle Fontaine, Registered Psychotherapist in K2G, ON
Isabelle Fontaine
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, RYT-200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2G  (Online Only)
I work with trauma, life transitions, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, and relational issues, to name a few.
Every client has the capacity to experience change in their lives. As we navigate the ups and downs of life, we can find ourselves feeling stuck and unsure which direction to take. I encourage clients to draw from their strengths as a source of empowerment and resilience. I encourage curiosity, vulnerability and self-compassion. Trust and respect are important in the therapeutic process and I welcome all parts of self clients wish to give a voice to during our time together.
I work with trauma, life transitions, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, and relational issues, to name a few.
Every client has the capacity to experience change in their lives. As we navigate the ups and downs of life, we can find ourselves feeling stuck and unsure which direction to take. I encourage clients to draw from their strengths as a source of empowerment and resilience. I encourage curiosity, vulnerability and self-compassion. Trust and respect are important in the therapeutic process and I welcome all parts of self clients wish to give a voice to during our time together.
(613) 702-1848 View (613) 702-1848
Photo of Nadia Soltani, Registered Social Worker in K2G, ON
Nadia Soltani
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Nepean, ON K2G  (Online Only)
Individuals come to me to get the support concerning, Depression, Anxiety, Difficulty with everyday tasks and mobility, lack of purpose, Insomnia, Loss and Bereavement, Mood challenges, Life Transitions, Midlife Crisis, Loneliness, Low Self-esteem, Memory loss and Dementia, Transition to living in Retirement Home or Long Term Care home, Stress.
**WELCOMING NEW CLIENTS FOR VIRTUAL APPOINTMENTS** Taking the first step towards reaching out for help is a difficult experience. It comes with doubts, uncertainties, and many fears. As we age we can experience challenges and loss in many different forms but you don't have to do this alone. I am a professional Social Worker that specialize in older adults and I am here to help, with a calm non-judgmental and supportive approach. Together we will develop the necessary coping skills to help you identify your strengths and creates personal wellness goals.
Individuals come to me to get the support concerning, Depression, Anxiety, Difficulty with everyday tasks and mobility, lack of purpose, Insomnia, Loss and Bereavement, Mood challenges, Life Transitions, Midlife Crisis, Loneliness, Low Self-esteem, Memory loss and Dementia, Transition to living in Retirement Home or Long Term Care home, Stress.
**WELCOMING NEW CLIENTS FOR VIRTUAL APPOINTMENTS** Taking the first step towards reaching out for help is a difficult experience. It comes with doubts, uncertainties, and many fears. As we age we can experience challenges and loss in many different forms but you don't have to do this alone. I am a professional Social Worker that specialize in older adults and I am here to help, with a calm non-judgmental and supportive approach. Together we will develop the necessary coping skills to help you identify your strengths and creates personal wellness goals.
(343) 304-6407 View (343) 304-6407
Photo of Laura Zychla, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in K2G, ON
Laura Zychla
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
Nepean, ON K2G
I work with children and adults experiencing the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional exhaustion, grief, difficult, life situations such as divorce, abuse or illness, and more. Through a person-centered focus, I aim to support you in achieving your therapeutic goals, will stand with you in challenging times, and can help you move through difficult emotions, thoughts, and behaviours toward better mental health. Whether I am being silly with children to demonstrate emotions or immersed in exploring past traumas with adults, I come from a place of warm compassion, optimism, and collaboration to support your journey.
I work with children and adults experiencing the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional exhaustion, grief, difficult, life situations such as divorce, abuse or illness, and more. Through a person-centered focus, I aim to support you in achieving your therapeutic goals, will stand with you in challenging times, and can help you move through difficult emotions, thoughts, and behaviours toward better mental health. Whether I am being silly with children to demonstrate emotions or immersed in exploring past traumas with adults, I come from a place of warm compassion, optimism, and collaboration to support your journey.
(343) 308-3594 View (343) 308-3594
Photo of Dylan Myllymaki, Registered Social Worker in K2G, ON
Dylan Myllymaki
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2G
I provide psychotherapy to youth, adults, and families on a wide range of emotional, behavioural, and relational issues. I offer a unique and personally tailored approach to therapy, focusing on depression, anxiety, life adjustments and transitions, post-traumatic stress and psychological trauma, childhood issues and trauma, grief, family problems, and relational difficulties. I hope to provide you with an open and professional atmosphere with the goal of working through emotional difficulties, facilitating personal growth, forming healthier relationships, and moving on in your life.
I provide psychotherapy to youth, adults, and families on a wide range of emotional, behavioural, and relational issues. I offer a unique and personally tailored approach to therapy, focusing on depression, anxiety, life adjustments and transitions, post-traumatic stress and psychological trauma, childhood issues and trauma, grief, family problems, and relational difficulties. I hope to provide you with an open and professional atmosphere with the goal of working through emotional difficulties, facilitating personal growth, forming healthier relationships, and moving on in your life.
(613) 701-9927 View (613) 701-9927
Photo of Jennifer Grindon, Registered Psychotherapist in K2G, ON
Jennifer Grindon
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2G
The journey of life holds many unexpected turns that can often lead to feeling lost, stuck and alone. I am dedicated to providing individuals and couples a safe and supportive space where they can slow down and connect to their internal resources. I believe that with the right support, each person has the capacity to grow and heal. I encourage clients to explore how their life experiences are affecting their current circumstances, with the intention of moving toward a satisfying life with meaningful connections.
The journey of life holds many unexpected turns that can often lead to feeling lost, stuck and alone. I am dedicated to providing individuals and couples a safe and supportive space where they can slow down and connect to their internal resources. I believe that with the right support, each person has the capacity to grow and heal. I encourage clients to explore how their life experiences are affecting their current circumstances, with the intention of moving toward a satisfying life with meaningful connections.
(613) 704-2666 View (613) 704-2666

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Grief Counsellors

How long does therapy take for grief?

There is no exact timeline for grief counseling. Some people may start to feel better after just a few sessions, while others may take months or longer to feel relief. Some specific approaches, including some types of CBT, may involve a set number of sessions, or therapy may be open-ended until the patient determines they are ready to wrap up. Just as there is no right or wrong way to grieve, there is no right or wrong way to seek therapy for grief.

When should you seek therapy for grief?

Many people mistakenly believe that their grief needs to be debilitating or all-encompassing to warrant therapy. This is not the case. While people who experience severe, prolonged grief—particularly those who are considering self-harm or engaging in unhealthy substance use—are especially likely to benefit from therapy, so too are people whose grief is less intense but still interfering with well-being or daily functioning. In practice, almost anyone struggling to process a loss could benefit from grief counseling.

Can grief be managed without therapy?

Oftentimes, yes. Grief is a near-universal part of being human, and many find that their grief, while profound, does not stop them from participating in day-to-day life and steadily eases over time without outside help. For others, however, the harsh pain of early grief persists for months or years or leaves them unable to function. This group is especially likely to benefit from seeing a therapist, who can guide them through their grief and help them reconnect with the world.

What happens if grief is left untreated?

Because grief does not in itself necessitate therapy, untreated grief will often resolve on its own. However, for some people—particularly those who would qualify for a diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder—untreated grief can be a source of seemingly endless pain or lead them to withdraw from the world. In such cases, treatment can be indispensable, as it can help an individual adapt to the loss and start living again.