Photo of Jennifer Ritchie, Registered Psychotherapist in Kingston, ON
Jennifer Ritchie
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CYW
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7L  (Online Only)
Effective April 22nd, I am welcoming new clients! With over 19 years experience, I work collaboratively with teens and pre-teens (9-18), adults, and families to find hope and regain balance. Perhaps you've suffered great loss or you're wanting more from your relationships. Maybe you're dealing with anxiety or you're re-evaluating your life and are on the brink of a major transition. Or you're worried about your teen and the direction they're headed. A lot of us get weighed down by one thing after another. Whatever it is, if you're feeling unsure or unsettled and you're seeking a greater sense of ease, allow me to support you.
Effective April 22nd, I am welcoming new clients! With over 19 years experience, I work collaboratively with teens and pre-teens (9-18), adults, and families to find hope and regain balance. Perhaps you've suffered great loss or you're wanting more from your relationships. Maybe you're dealing with anxiety or you're re-evaluating your life and are on the brink of a major transition. Or you're worried about your teen and the direction they're headed. A lot of us get weighed down by one thing after another. Whatever it is, if you're feeling unsure or unsettled and you're seeking a greater sense of ease, allow me to support you.
(416) 800-3146 View (416) 800-3146
Photo of Michael Thunderblum, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Kingston, ON
Michael Thunderblum
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
If you are reading this you are likely going through a hard time in your life. Perhaps you are processing a traumatic event, are trying to get back on your feet after being knocked down for the umpteenth time, or grieving the loss of someone, or something, precious to you? No matter what it is, I would like to try and help you overcome life's obstacles by untangling the knots of thought and feeling that hold you in place.
If you are reading this you are likely going through a hard time in your life. Perhaps you are processing a traumatic event, are trying to get back on your feet after being knocked down for the umpteenth time, or grieving the loss of someone, or something, precious to you? No matter what it is, I would like to try and help you overcome life's obstacles by untangling the knots of thought and feeling that hold you in place.
(647) 460-3591 View (647) 460-3591
Photo of The Dot Canada, Registered Psychotherapist in Kingston, ON
The Dot Canada
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7L  (Online Only)
The mental health professionals at The Dot are trained in many different types of therapy that can help with issues related to trauma, grief, relationship issues (yes we do couples counselling) depression, anxiety and more.
If you've been powering through, staying strong and carrying on, but now you're barely getting by and you're tired of feeling like you're not really living your life, it might be time for outside support. The benefit of therapy is that it's a time where you get to focus on yourself, to look at your life, and to get an outside perspective on how it could be different. You don't have to just endure, with the right support, you can heal from the past, and move forward towards a better future.
The mental health professionals at The Dot are trained in many different types of therapy that can help with issues related to trauma, grief, relationship issues (yes we do couples counselling) depression, anxiety and more.
If you've been powering through, staying strong and carrying on, but now you're barely getting by and you're tired of feeling like you're not really living your life, it might be time for outside support. The benefit of therapy is that it's a time where you get to focus on yourself, to look at your life, and to get an outside perspective on how it could be different. You don't have to just endure, with the right support, you can heal from the past, and move forward towards a better future.
(343) 307-0544 View (343) 307-0544
Photo of Jacqueline Schryer, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Kingston, ON
Jacqueline Schryer
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BEd, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K  (Online Only)
If you need support with your anxiety, grief/loss, a challenging personal relationship, or processing a traumatic experience (or anything in-between), please contact me; I am here ready to be your caring ear.
Have you been experiencing increased anxiety or depression, or find yourself needing support for a troubled relationship? Maybe life has given you a entire bag of lemons; whatever the reason, I'm here to help. We will collaboratively develop goals in a supportive and empathetic atmosphere so you can hopefully achieve a more balanced life. Be warned, I keep it real as life is too short for a bunch of psycho-babble. I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) which means I have regular consultations with a Registered Psychotherapist and Registered Social Worker, Mary Earls until I meet the hours required by CRPO to be a full RP.
If you need support with your anxiety, grief/loss, a challenging personal relationship, or processing a traumatic experience (or anything in-between), please contact me; I am here ready to be your caring ear.
Have you been experiencing increased anxiety or depression, or find yourself needing support for a troubled relationship? Maybe life has given you a entire bag of lemons; whatever the reason, I'm here to help. We will collaboratively develop goals in a supportive and empathetic atmosphere so you can hopefully achieve a more balanced life. Be warned, I keep it real as life is too short for a bunch of psycho-babble. I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) which means I have regular consultations with a Registered Psychotherapist and Registered Social Worker, Mary Earls until I meet the hours required by CRPO to be a full RP.
(249) 202-2319 View (249) 202-2319
Photo of Lisa Steacy, Registered Psychotherapist in Kingston, ON
Lisa Steacy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7P
I serve a broad clientele who struggle with the effects / impact of trauma, attachment issues, grief/loss, disordered eating, depression, family/child dynamics, anxiety, ADHD and mood disorders.
I work from a place that values and acknowledges the need for connection and right relationship in all domains of life, including the therapeutic relationship. The desire to feel heard, understood, known and safe is an inherent need we all desire and I aspire to create this dynamic in all my therapeutic working relationships. I am strength-based clinician, drawing on each individual unique gifts, talents and experiences. I understand and feel privileged to witness the triumph over one's challenges through this therapeutic process. I am a RP, with 30 years in Mental Health, working with children, youth, adults, couples and families.
I serve a broad clientele who struggle with the effects / impact of trauma, attachment issues, grief/loss, disordered eating, depression, family/child dynamics, anxiety, ADHD and mood disorders.
I work from a place that values and acknowledges the need for connection and right relationship in all domains of life, including the therapeutic relationship. The desire to feel heard, understood, known and safe is an inherent need we all desire and I aspire to create this dynamic in all my therapeutic working relationships. I am strength-based clinician, drawing on each individual unique gifts, talents and experiences. I understand and feel privileged to witness the triumph over one's challenges through this therapeutic process. I am a RP, with 30 years in Mental Health, working with children, youth, adults, couples and families.
(343) 309-5942 View (343) 309-5942
Photo of Michelle Rivet, Registered Social Worker in Kingston, ON
Michelle Rivet
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7M
I have experience working in the areas of trauma, relationships, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, separation and divorce, physical, emotional and sexual abuse, emotional regulation and, parenting/co-parenting.
I have over 20 years experience working with individuals, couples and families. I am a trauma informed therapist, trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I offer a supportive and welcoming environment to assist with the development of self-awareness, the understanding of behaviours and patterns, the appropriate expression of thoughts and feelings and the exploration of healthy and effective coping skills. In my approach to counselling I use a variety of therapeutic modalities including, but not limited to, narrative and mindfulness-based therapy.
I have experience working in the areas of trauma, relationships, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, separation and divorce, physical, emotional and sexual abuse, emotional regulation and, parenting/co-parenting.
I have over 20 years experience working with individuals, couples and families. I am a trauma informed therapist, trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I offer a supportive and welcoming environment to assist with the development of self-awareness, the understanding of behaviours and patterns, the appropriate expression of thoughts and feelings and the exploration of healthy and effective coping skills. In my approach to counselling I use a variety of therapeutic modalities including, but not limited to, narrative and mindfulness-based therapy.
(613) 900-5744 View (613) 900-5744
Photo of Patricia Marchand, Registered Social Worker in Kingston, ON
Patricia Marchand
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7L
I work with families, couples and youth to help build their capacity to move toward healthier more hopeful futures. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings providing services to the unique needs of military, first responder families, youth and adults with eating disorders, trauma, loss and grief, chronic illness, couple work, addictions and borderline personality disorder /traits and hoarding. I believe in the strength and resilience of families, and all persons ability to heal.
I work with families, couples and youth to help build their capacity to move toward healthier more hopeful futures. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings providing services to the unique needs of military, first responder families, youth and adults with eating disorders, trauma, loss and grief, chronic illness, couple work, addictions and borderline personality disorder /traits and hoarding. I believe in the strength and resilience of families, and all persons ability to heal.
(613) 704-2748 View (613) 704-2748
Photo of Sabrina Tripolitano, Registered Social Worker in Kingston, ON
Sabrina Tripolitano
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7K
I provide clinical support to individuals who have experienced early trauma and loss, as well as families experiencing adjustment difficulties related to separation and divorce. In my practice, I offer counselling for situational life stressors, as well as mild to moderate mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Services available for children, adolescents and adults.
I provide clinical support to individuals who have experienced early trauma and loss, as well as families experiencing adjustment difficulties related to separation and divorce. In my practice, I offer counselling for situational life stressors, as well as mild to moderate mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Services available for children, adolescents and adults.
(343) 307-5247 View (343) 307-5247
Photo of Kimberly Blair Kent, Registered Social Worker in Kingston, ON
Kimberly Blair Kent
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7M
Waitlist for new clients
Post graduation, I focused my clinical studies in the area of trauma, grief and abuse, and received certification in trauma counselling from the University of Toronto.
Currently waitlisting clients- When people are anxious, grieving, or struggling in life, it can be hard to know where to turn for help. I work with children, adolescents, adults,and couples to assist in improving their well being and re-establish healthy, happy patterns and lifestyles. I am a Registered Social Worker and have over 25 years experience in various counselling roles. I am passionate about meeting people where they are at and empowering them to be the best versions of themselves.
Post graduation, I focused my clinical studies in the area of trauma, grief and abuse, and received certification in trauma counselling from the University of Toronto.
Currently waitlisting clients- When people are anxious, grieving, or struggling in life, it can be hard to know where to turn for help. I work with children, adolescents, adults,and couples to assist in improving their well being and re-establish healthy, happy patterns and lifestyles. I am a Registered Social Worker and have over 25 years experience in various counselling roles. I am passionate about meeting people where they are at and empowering them to be the best versions of themselves.
(343) 429-9158 View (343) 429-9158
Photo of Brianne Tylliros (Psychotherapy For You), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Kingston, ON
Brianne Tylliros (Psychotherapy For You)
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
My name is Brianne Tylliros and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with a master’s degree in counseling psychology. Currently, I am on the path to becoming a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), aiming to enhance my skills in understanding and positively influencing behavior to enrich quality of life. I have experience supporting individuals of all ages navigate a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief, stress, ADHD, and ASD. My practice extends to both adults and children, embracing a compassionate, person-centered approach.
My name is Brianne Tylliros and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with a master’s degree in counseling psychology. Currently, I am on the path to becoming a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), aiming to enhance my skills in understanding and positively influencing behavior to enrich quality of life. I have experience supporting individuals of all ages navigate a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief, stress, ADHD, and ASD. My practice extends to both adults and children, embracing a compassionate, person-centered approach.
(289) 206-7371 View (289) 206-7371
Photo of Carly Quintero @ Psychotherapy for You, Registered Psychotherapist in Kingston, ON
Carly Quintero @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K0H  (Online Only)
substance abuse, eating disorders, grief, LGBTQ+ issues, and adjustment disorders, among others.
Hello I am a welcoming, attentive clinician with a natural knack for relationship building. I earned my Master's degree in Counselling from Oakland University (Michigan) in 2013 and have been a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario since 2016, as well as a Member of the Ontario Society of Registered Psychotherapists. I have over eight years of experience counselling individuals from predominantly person-centered and narrative approaches with specific focus placed on developing treatment to fit each client's unique needs and personality. I am confident working with anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional effects of chronic pain,
substance abuse, eating disorders, grief, LGBTQ+ issues, and adjustment disorders, among others.
Hello I am a welcoming, attentive clinician with a natural knack for relationship building. I earned my Master's degree in Counselling from Oakland University (Michigan) in 2013 and have been a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario since 2016, as well as a Member of the Ontario Society of Registered Psychotherapists. I have over eight years of experience counselling individuals from predominantly person-centered and narrative approaches with specific focus placed on developing treatment to fit each client's unique needs and personality. I am confident working with anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional effects of chronic pain,
(289) 272-9090 View (289) 272-9090
Photo of Heather Kent, Registered Psychotherapist in Kingston, ON
Heather Kent
Registered Psychotherapist, MC, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
We can also talk about anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, depression, grief, discrimination, identity issues - whatever you need.
You’re dealing with a lot; feeling guilty and confused. Guilty for not loving more or trying harder. They’re telling you these things - it must be true, right? They were charismatic and charming, showering you with PDA and compliments, but it all changed. You’re embarrassing they say, and now you feel trapped and broken. You’re not alone. It's not your fault. You Google “abusive relationships” and read about narcissistic abuse. That’s your life! You need guidance. I know this because I needed it too. I chased “good enough” trying to “behave well” for my family. After college, I married and divorced a narcissist who always blamed me.
We can also talk about anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, depression, grief, discrimination, identity issues - whatever you need.
You’re dealing with a lot; feeling guilty and confused. Guilty for not loving more or trying harder. They’re telling you these things - it must be true, right? They were charismatic and charming, showering you with PDA and compliments, but it all changed. You’re embarrassing they say, and now you feel trapped and broken. You’re not alone. It's not your fault. You Google “abusive relationships” and read about narcissistic abuse. That’s your life! You need guidance. I know this because I needed it too. I chased “good enough” trying to “behave well” for my family. After college, I married and divorced a narcissist who always blamed me.
(249) 490-5850 View (249) 490-5850
Photo of Intersections Therapy Collective, Registered Social Worker in Kingston, ON
Intersections Therapy Collective
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
This may involve learning to set boundaries, working through a loss or life transition, or changing patterns of behavior that keep you feeling stuck.
Intersections Therapy Collective (ITC) is nestled in the heart of Ottawa's Centretown, easily accessible from East, West, and South of the city. ITC has been proudly serving Ottawa and its surrounding communities since 2020. We offer free on-site parking, a unique advantage compared to other private mental health clinics. Our team is dedicated to providing evidence-based, competent, and compassionate psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. With a dedicated child & family therapist, we also focus on treating children and youth, collaborating with parents and schools.
This may involve learning to set boundaries, working through a loss or life transition, or changing patterns of behavior that keep you feeling stuck.
Intersections Therapy Collective (ITC) is nestled in the heart of Ottawa's Centretown, easily accessible from East, West, and South of the city. ITC has been proudly serving Ottawa and its surrounding communities since 2020. We offer free on-site parking, a unique advantage compared to other private mental health clinics. Our team is dedicated to providing evidence-based, competent, and compassionate psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. With a dedicated child & family therapist, we also focus on treating children and youth, collaborating with parents and schools.
(343) 342-2410 View (343) 342-2410
Photo of Ineke Guadagnin, Registered Psychotherapist in Kingston, ON
Ineke Guadagnin
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BA Ed, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
I’m here for you. I know, life doesn't always work out as we had hoped. As a trauma-sensitive therapist, I provide a safe space to listen to concerns, make sense of feelings, and discover barriers to your progress. My focus is to help you explore, grow, and thrive as you become aware of your inner strength. My style is gentle, authentic, and attentive as I collaborate with you to engage your resiliency and move forward to where you want to be in your life. If you are struggling in a relationship, are grieving a loss, or have tried everything to find stability with anxiety or after a trauma, I encourage you to give me a call.
I’m here for you. I know, life doesn't always work out as we had hoped. As a trauma-sensitive therapist, I provide a safe space to listen to concerns, make sense of feelings, and discover barriers to your progress. My focus is to help you explore, grow, and thrive as you become aware of your inner strength. My style is gentle, authentic, and attentive as I collaborate with you to engage your resiliency and move forward to where you want to be in your life. If you are struggling in a relationship, are grieving a loss, or have tried everything to find stability with anxiety or after a trauma, I encourage you to give me a call.
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Photo of Chrystal Dulmage, Registered Psychotherapist in Kingston, ON
Chrystal Dulmage
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K0H  (Online Only)
Welcoming new clients! Like the transition from fall to winter, we all go through seasons that threaten our livelihood and shake us from thriving to dormancy. This often leaves us questioning our meaning and purpose. Your experience may be a devastating loss, lack of energy, motivation, and enjoyment in activities and people that once brought you joy or physical and psychological restlessness. It is difficult in such states to understand how flourishing is possible. However, there is hope! Just as winter gives way to spring showers and new life springs forth to flourishing, neither is your situation hopeless; you can thrive again.
Welcoming new clients! Like the transition from fall to winter, we all go through seasons that threaten our livelihood and shake us from thriving to dormancy. This often leaves us questioning our meaning and purpose. Your experience may be a devastating loss, lack of energy, motivation, and enjoyment in activities and people that once brought you joy or physical and psychological restlessness. It is difficult in such states to understand how flourishing is possible. However, there is hope! Just as winter gives way to spring showers and new life springs forth to flourishing, neither is your situation hopeless; you can thrive again.
(343) 338-3131 View (343) 338-3131
Photo of Sumita Mendiratta- Specialist Learning Behavioural Issues, Counsellor in Kingston, ON
Sumita Mendiratta- Specialist Learning Behavioural Issues
Counsellor, MPhil, MA, PGDGC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7P
Do you feel overwhelmed when you think about performing your daily tasks? Does it bother you to talk about your feelings to your loved ones? Is achieving your goals making you feel anxious? Do you feel need to learn coping skills to manage everyday conflicts? In these demanding times priortising mental well being becomes paramount. I work with individuals with learning challenges using Instrumental Enrichment Programme and Brain Gym to enhance problem solving skills reduce stress and optimize cognitive skills performance. Art Therapy helps individuals of all age groups to express their thoughts and feelings.
Do you feel overwhelmed when you think about performing your daily tasks? Does it bother you to talk about your feelings to your loved ones? Is achieving your goals making you feel anxious? Do you feel need to learn coping skills to manage everyday conflicts? In these demanding times priortising mental well being becomes paramount. I work with individuals with learning challenges using Instrumental Enrichment Programme and Brain Gym to enhance problem solving skills reduce stress and optimize cognitive skills performance. Art Therapy helps individuals of all age groups to express their thoughts and feelings.
(343) 453-4505 View (343) 453-4505
Photo of Rooted Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Kingston, ON
Rooted Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7M
Under the framework of modern attachment theories, I work with clients to gain a greater sense of self-autonomy, determination and understanding. Many of our thoughts and feelings go unchecked during the busyness of a common day. In our work together, we will first learn to identify maladaptive core beliefs that so often plague our mental wellness. From there, I will implement EFT, narrative, and mindfulness approaches to combat self-defeating behaviours. How we think and feel about ourselves has a profound effect on our overall well-being, and both consciously and subconsciously influences every action (or in-action) we take.
Under the framework of modern attachment theories, I work with clients to gain a greater sense of self-autonomy, determination and understanding. Many of our thoughts and feelings go unchecked during the busyness of a common day. In our work together, we will first learn to identify maladaptive core beliefs that so often plague our mental wellness. From there, I will implement EFT, narrative, and mindfulness approaches to combat self-defeating behaviours. How we think and feel about ourselves has a profound effect on our overall well-being, and both consciously and subconsciously influences every action (or in-action) we take.
(343) 700-6074 View (343) 700-6074
Photo of Dr. Dianna (Lanteigne) Gibson, Psychologist in Kingston, ON
Dr. Dianna (Lanteigne) Gibson
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
Waitlist for new clients
Accepting treatment clients to waitlist. Assessment waitlist is currently closed due to a wait time of 24 months+. At times in life we can become stuck in intense feelings, whether it's related to stressful challenges, life transitions, relationships, or events from our past that continue to cause us pain. We try to cope but our usual strategies are not working anymore.
Accepting treatment clients to waitlist. Assessment waitlist is currently closed due to a wait time of 24 months+. At times in life we can become stuck in intense feelings, whether it's related to stressful challenges, life transitions, relationships, or events from our past that continue to cause us pain. We try to cope but our usual strategies are not working anymore.
(343) 341-5864 View (343) 341-5864
Photo of Shelley Sayle-Udall, Registered Psychotherapist in Kingston, ON
Shelley Sayle-Udall
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BAH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7P  (Online Only)
Parenting is not just about navigating the day to day responsibilities of raising children. It's also about managing dynamics between partners as they navigate the complexities of child-rearing. Each parent brings their own upbringing, beliefs & expectations into the mix, creating a rich tapestry of perspectives. However, when these perspectives clash, it can create discord & tension in the relationship. Suddenly, what was once a seamless partnership feels disjointed, with communication breaking down & disagreements escalating. Parenting therapy offers a supportive space to explore these challenges
Parenting is not just about navigating the day to day responsibilities of raising children. It's also about managing dynamics between partners as they navigate the complexities of child-rearing. Each parent brings their own upbringing, beliefs & expectations into the mix, creating a rich tapestry of perspectives. However, when these perspectives clash, it can create discord & tension in the relationship. Suddenly, what was once a seamless partnership feels disjointed, with communication breaking down & disagreements escalating. Parenting therapy offers a supportive space to explore these challenges
(343) 429-8129 View (343) 429-8129
Photo of Onyx Counselling Services - Harmony Jarvis, Registered Social Worker in Kingston, ON
Onyx Counselling Services - Harmony Jarvis
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MSc
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7L
Registered social worker accepting referrals for in person services (individual, or couples). Making the first call can be the hardest part about engaging in counselling. There's a million things that get in the way of that first call, and a lot of nerve (and time!) that it takes to make it. Whether this is your first engagement, or your hundredth, it is my belief that if you’re thinking about therapy, you can likely benefit from - and are welcome in therapy. Anxiety, trauma, infidelity, depression, conflict - whatever is bothering you let's work together to find a way forward.
Registered social worker accepting referrals for in person services (individual, or couples). Making the first call can be the hardest part about engaging in counselling. There's a million things that get in the way of that first call, and a lot of nerve (and time!) that it takes to make it. Whether this is your first engagement, or your hundredth, it is my belief that if you’re thinking about therapy, you can likely benefit from - and are welcome in therapy. Anxiety, trauma, infidelity, depression, conflict - whatever is bothering you let's work together to find a way forward.
(343) 305-5492 View (343) 305-5492

See more therapy options for Kingston


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.