Photo of Jesse Lawther, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in London, ON
Jesse Lawther
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MPS, RPQ
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
London, ON N6C  (Online Only)
Your experiences, your grief, your way of being in the world are all uniquely yours.
I work with clients who are in the midst of change; grieving what once was, what could have been, and facing the uncertainty of what’s next. Many of us are familiar with approaching the unknown alone, but it doesn’t have to be this way. We can co-create a therapeutic relationship that gives room for all parts of you to examine the many manifestations of grief – deaths, violence, life transitions, identity shifts, familial changes, and other types of change and losses. Together we can explore new ways of relating to yourself, your story, and what it means to be here – now.
Your experiences, your grief, your way of being in the world are all uniquely yours.
I work with clients who are in the midst of change; grieving what once was, what could have been, and facing the uncertainty of what’s next. Many of us are familiar with approaching the unknown alone, but it doesn’t have to be this way. We can co-create a therapeutic relationship that gives room for all parts of you to examine the many manifestations of grief – deaths, violence, life transitions, identity shifts, familial changes, and other types of change and losses. Together we can explore new ways of relating to yourself, your story, and what it means to be here – now.
(437) 747-0903 View (437) 747-0903
Photo of Darren Parker, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Darren Parker
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
London, ON N6A  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, depression, anger, and grief, but I’m more interested in the person than a diagnosis.
Growing up, I just assumed everybody didn’t like themselves. I thought there were people that were open about not liking themselves, and then the rest of us pretending to like ourselves. It was the work I did in therapy that helped me learn there was this wild third option of “actually liking and appreciating myself”. Now I have the joy of sharing that with people as they learn they don’t have to feel so angry, worried, afraid, sad, or guilty all of the time.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, anger, and grief, but I’m more interested in the person than a diagnosis.
Growing up, I just assumed everybody didn’t like themselves. I thought there were people that were open about not liking themselves, and then the rest of us pretending to like ourselves. It was the work I did in therapy that helped me learn there was this wild third option of “actually liking and appreciating myself”. Now I have the joy of sharing that with people as they learn they don’t have to feel so angry, worried, afraid, sad, or guilty all of the time.
(289) 271-1238 View (289) 271-1238
Photo of Tracy Crick-Butler, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Tracy Crick-Butler
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, DMin
Verified Verified
London, ON N6K
Sometimes life hurts and we are uncertain how to move forward. Trauma, grief, life transitions, difficult relationships, and past experiences often leave us searching for healing and hope. We don’t want to do this work alone, and yet we don’t always know where to turn. In the therapeutic relationship you will be heard and seen. In my practice I use a holistic, person-centred approach where together we will build a respectful relationship that allows you to gain new skills, acquire knowledge that helps bring about change, and work toward your personal goals.
Sometimes life hurts and we are uncertain how to move forward. Trauma, grief, life transitions, difficult relationships, and past experiences often leave us searching for healing and hope. We don’t want to do this work alone, and yet we don’t always know where to turn. In the therapeutic relationship you will be heard and seen. In my practice I use a holistic, person-centred approach where together we will build a respectful relationship that allows you to gain new skills, acquire knowledge that helps bring about change, and work toward your personal goals.
(519) 860-0757 View (519) 860-0757
Photo of Ericca Wascher, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in London, ON
Ericca Wascher
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N5Y
Every person experiences hardships, loss, and trauma throughout the course of their life. This may impact our ability to function in our day-to-day. Throughout my career and education, I have developed a passion for helping those experiencing grief and loss. Grief is a deeply personal and unique experience that occurs after we experience a loss. I will strive to help you understand and explore your feelings while processing the loss that you have experienced or are experiencing.
Every person experiences hardships, loss, and trauma throughout the course of their life. This may impact our ability to function in our day-to-day. Throughout my career and education, I have developed a passion for helping those experiencing grief and loss. Grief is a deeply personal and unique experience that occurs after we experience a loss. I will strive to help you understand and explore your feelings while processing the loss that you have experienced or are experiencing.
(226) 702-8846 View (226) 702-8846
Photo of Cheryl Stewart Counselling Services, Registered Psychotherapist in London, ON
Cheryl Stewart Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
London, ON N5X
Hello. I am here to help! I offer counseling services to those wanting to live happier, fuller lives. I help my clients be more mindful in their daily lives and live with more purpose. I offer services addressing many issues. Some treatable issues include grief, relationships, self-esteem. communication, stress, parenting, depression, and anxiety. Call for a complimentary phone consult and get started today.
Hello. I am here to help! I offer counseling services to those wanting to live happier, fuller lives. I help my clients be more mindful in their daily lives and live with more purpose. I offer services addressing many issues. Some treatable issues include grief, relationships, self-esteem. communication, stress, parenting, depression, and anxiety. Call for a complimentary phone consult and get started today.
(226) 212-7349 View (226) 212-7349
Photo of Mitchell Brant, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Mitchell Brant
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
London, ON N6B
Facing loss, sorrow and grief can be so isolating. It can be hard to know where to turn, and often times a mainstream approach won't help. If you've faced trauma, loss, depression, grief, or struggle with your self-esteem or identity, I understand. I am sure that you want to feel deeper connections to yourself and others. You want to feel free and hopeful. You want to make meaning of loss and allow it to move you forward in a healthy way. You want to let go of traumatic responses that keep you stuck. Perhaps you're looking for healing methods that incorporate more than just talk therapy. I see you, and know that I can help you heal.
Facing loss, sorrow and grief can be so isolating. It can be hard to know where to turn, and often times a mainstream approach won't help. If you've faced trauma, loss, depression, grief, or struggle with your self-esteem or identity, I understand. I am sure that you want to feel deeper connections to yourself and others. You want to feel free and hopeful. You want to make meaning of loss and allow it to move you forward in a healthy way. You want to let go of traumatic responses that keep you stuck. Perhaps you're looking for healing methods that incorporate more than just talk therapy. I see you, and know that I can help you heal.
(226) 270-0506 View (226) 270-0506
Photo of Adrienne Vale, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Adrienne Vale
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CYW
Verified Verified
London, ON N6B
With 10 years of experience and a background in child, trauma and grief, my focus is not just on providing professional support but co-creating an environment where you and your child feels safe to explore and express yourselves.
I extend a warm invitation to you, to a nurturing space where healing unfolds naturally. If you're seeking support for your child, your family, or yourself in times of difficulty, know that you've found a haven where safety, understanding, and gentle guidance live. Let's embark on this journey together, creating a home for emotional well-being to move you through this challenge.
With 10 years of experience and a background in child, trauma and grief, my focus is not just on providing professional support but co-creating an environment where you and your child feels safe to explore and express yourselves.
I extend a warm invitation to you, to a nurturing space where healing unfolds naturally. If you're seeking support for your child, your family, or yourself in times of difficulty, know that you've found a haven where safety, understanding, and gentle guidance live. Let's embark on this journey together, creating a home for emotional well-being to move you through this challenge.
(226) 777-7702 View (226) 777-7702
Photo of Ana Barrientos, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in London, ON
Ana Barrientos
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, CCC
Verified Verified
London, ON N6H
I am a dedicated, skilled and compassionate psychotherapist with expertise in grief and bereavement, end-of-life, mental health therapy, spiritually-integrated therapy, and trauma counselling.
When you are struggling with your mental health, the anguish can feel unbearable. Perhaps you’ve been lost in depression or have been living with persistent anxiety. Your body might ache, or hold chronic pain. You might have lost a loved one through a death or through relational breakdown, and you are struggling to cope with the grief of such a dramatic change to your life. Maybe you are facing terminal illness and have deep sorrow or questions about what happens next. You might be a trauma survivor looking to rebuild your life. If any of these issues apply to you, I can help you.
I am a dedicated, skilled and compassionate psychotherapist with expertise in grief and bereavement, end-of-life, mental health therapy, spiritually-integrated therapy, and trauma counselling.
When you are struggling with your mental health, the anguish can feel unbearable. Perhaps you’ve been lost in depression or have been living with persistent anxiety. Your body might ache, or hold chronic pain. You might have lost a loved one through a death or through relational breakdown, and you are struggling to cope with the grief of such a dramatic change to your life. Maybe you are facing terminal illness and have deep sorrow or questions about what happens next. You might be a trauma survivor looking to rebuild your life. If any of these issues apply to you, I can help you.
(226) 457-2247 View (226) 457-2247
Photo of Claude Danièle Forrat, Registered Psychotherapist in London, ON
Claude Danièle Forrat
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
London, ON N6K  (Online Only)
I have an extensive experience with depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationships issues, identity and cultural challenges, Third Culture Kids, Aboriginal reality and History, intergenerational trauma, challenges with the pandemic, grief and loss.
Hello. I know it took a lot of courage for you to start looking for help to deal with the challenges you are facing. Life can be really hard at times. And sometimes, you just feel bad and you don't know why or how to change that. You need to be heard, to be understood and to feel you are not alone. Therapy provides you with tools that will help you solve a problem and reach the balance, joy and peace you need. You might feel vulnerable, you don't know what you will discover and you don't want to be judged or misunderstood. Therapy is safe, respectful, nonjudgmental, compassionate, a time just for you. You are not alone.
I have an extensive experience with depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationships issues, identity and cultural challenges, Third Culture Kids, Aboriginal reality and History, intergenerational trauma, challenges with the pandemic, grief and loss.
Hello. I know it took a lot of courage for you to start looking for help to deal with the challenges you are facing. Life can be really hard at times. And sometimes, you just feel bad and you don't know why or how to change that. You need to be heard, to be understood and to feel you are not alone. Therapy provides you with tools that will help you solve a problem and reach the balance, joy and peace you need. You might feel vulnerable, you don't know what you will discover and you don't want to be judged or misunderstood. Therapy is safe, respectful, nonjudgmental, compassionate, a time just for you. You are not alone.
(343) 306-1544 View (343) 306-1544
Photo of Alfredo Marroquín Psychotherapy and Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist in London, ON
Alfredo Marroquín Psychotherapy and Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, BEd, OTC, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
London, ON N5W  (Online Only)
Trained in Grief, Hospice and Palliative Care, Trauma Informed, Narrative Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, New Ways for Families approach and Motivational Interviewing.
As a Registered Psychotherapist with 24 years of clinical experience, significant personal lived experience and extensive professional training, I am committed to serve youth, adults, couples, and seniors. Whether you are experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, intergenerational conflicts, stress, abuse, trauma, burnout, or PTSD, you will find support in my person-centred, culturally appropriate, trauma-informed, strengths-based and anti-oppressive framework to establish the therapeutic safe space to create empowering opportunities.
Trained in Grief, Hospice and Palliative Care, Trauma Informed, Narrative Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, New Ways for Families approach and Motivational Interviewing.
As a Registered Psychotherapist with 24 years of clinical experience, significant personal lived experience and extensive professional training, I am committed to serve youth, adults, couples, and seniors. Whether you are experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, intergenerational conflicts, stress, abuse, trauma, burnout, or PTSD, you will find support in my person-centred, culturally appropriate, trauma-informed, strengths-based and anti-oppressive framework to establish the therapeutic safe space to create empowering opportunities.
(226) 907-4028 View (226) 907-4028
Photo of Clayton Zackery Bertin, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in London, ON
Clayton Zackery Bertin
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
London, ON N6B
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) conducting my private practice at Third Space Consulting. I am well versed in grief counselling, Client Centred Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy, CBT, MBCT & Mindfulness and am currently learning about forms of trauma therapies, Polyvagal Theory and Internal Family Systems. Regardless of what challenges we experience in our day-to-day lives (big or small), I believe that we all deserve the opportunity to heal. Whether your barriers are at the forefront or in the past, it is never too late to start the healing process.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) conducting my private practice at Third Space Consulting. I am well versed in grief counselling, Client Centred Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy, CBT, MBCT & Mindfulness and am currently learning about forms of trauma therapies, Polyvagal Theory and Internal Family Systems. Regardless of what challenges we experience in our day-to-day lives (big or small), I believe that we all deserve the opportunity to heal. Whether your barriers are at the forefront or in the past, it is never too late to start the healing process.
(226) 779-2044 View (226) 779-2044
Photo of Tori Lewis, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Tori Lewis
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N6B
Currently accepting new clients! Hello there, my name is Tori and I am a registered Social Worker helping individuals and couples’ pursuit of mental wellness and personal growth. Throughout my experience as a social worker, I have focused on supporting a diverse range of individuals, including seniors, medically fragile individuals, survivors of interpersonal and institutional violence, those living with mental health concerns, and those coping with addictions. My areas of practice include anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, ADHD and neurodivergence, caregiver stress and burnout, life transitions, and grief.
Currently accepting new clients! Hello there, my name is Tori and I am a registered Social Worker helping individuals and couples’ pursuit of mental wellness and personal growth. Throughout my experience as a social worker, I have focused on supporting a diverse range of individuals, including seniors, medically fragile individuals, survivors of interpersonal and institutional violence, those living with mental health concerns, and those coping with addictions. My areas of practice include anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, ADHD and neurodivergence, caregiver stress and burnout, life transitions, and grief.
(226) 741-0035 View (226) 741-0035
Photo of Aimée Howlett, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Aimée Howlett
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
London, ON N5Y
I am able to meet with individuals who might be experiencing grief, stress, anxiety, sadness, feelings of being overwhelmed, etc. I also meet with couples who might be struggling with their relationship including communication, sex and intimacy, infidelity, life transitions. Your experiences, feelings and thoughts could need some attention to provide you insight into your life and help you to move forward with strategies and tools to get you through - I'm here to help you with that. I have been a social worker for over ten years both in a hospital setting and community and am passionate about working with individuals and couples.
I am able to meet with individuals who might be experiencing grief, stress, anxiety, sadness, feelings of being overwhelmed, etc. I also meet with couples who might be struggling with their relationship including communication, sex and intimacy, infidelity, life transitions. Your experiences, feelings and thoughts could need some attention to provide you insight into your life and help you to move forward with strategies and tools to get you through - I'm here to help you with that. I have been a social worker for over ten years both in a hospital setting and community and am passionate about working with individuals and couples.
(226) 906-0483 View (226) 906-0483
Photo of Sydney McGillis, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in London, ON
Sydney McGillis
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, MPH, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N6B
I specialize in grief and bereavement counselling and appreciate how grief shows up in our lives in so many ways, not limited to the death of a loved one.
I am a qualifying member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario with an MA in Counselling Psychology and Master’s in Public Health. I have been working as a Registered Nurse (RN) in a variety of settings, from palliative care to public health, since 2016. I have always had a desire and passion to work with people to better support their wellness, prioritizing the connections we make with one another and how these shape our experiences in life. This passion has led me to become a therapist as I have greatly appreciated and grown from my own experiences with my mental wellbeing journey.
I specialize in grief and bereavement counselling and appreciate how grief shows up in our lives in so many ways, not limited to the death of a loved one.
I am a qualifying member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario with an MA in Counselling Psychology and Master’s in Public Health. I have been working as a Registered Nurse (RN) in a variety of settings, from palliative care to public health, since 2016. I have always had a desire and passion to work with people to better support their wellness, prioritizing the connections we make with one another and how these shape our experiences in life. This passion has led me to become a therapist as I have greatly appreciated and grown from my own experiences with my mental wellbeing journey.
(226) 241-9887 View (226) 241-9887
Photo of Mindy Gough, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Mindy Gough
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N6J
My areas of focus include mental health, couples' work, depression, anxiety, grief, relationship struggles, life transitions, the weight of emotional labour, and explorations of purpose and identity.
I provide welcoming, collaborative therapy that helps overwhelmed people find a path towards peace and wellbeing. I can help you to untangle complicated thoughts, and to create strategies to discover or recover your thriving self. My work is grounded in the theories of narrative therapy, DBT, CBT, Photo Therapy, positive psychology, and Gottman-informed couples' therapy. I have a particular affinity for people struggling with poor mental health, folks navigating mid-life challenges, women's issues throughout the lifespan, and family members supporting loved ones with mental health concerns.
My areas of focus include mental health, couples' work, depression, anxiety, grief, relationship struggles, life transitions, the weight of emotional labour, and explorations of purpose and identity.
I provide welcoming, collaborative therapy that helps overwhelmed people find a path towards peace and wellbeing. I can help you to untangle complicated thoughts, and to create strategies to discover or recover your thriving self. My work is grounded in the theories of narrative therapy, DBT, CBT, Photo Therapy, positive psychology, and Gottman-informed couples' therapy. I have a particular affinity for people struggling with poor mental health, folks navigating mid-life challenges, women's issues throughout the lifespan, and family members supporting loved ones with mental health concerns.
(226) 908-0432 View (226) 908-0432
Photo of Susan K Harrison, Registered Psychotherapist in London, ON
Susan K Harrison
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP, CTMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N6A  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing grief, life transitions, trauma, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, loneliness and other types of emotional distress or seeking a safe place to explore your concerns around sexuality, gender or spirituality, I hope you will reach out. Together we can get to know the various parts of you that are struggling and find out what you need for self understanding, resilient coping, self compassion, curiosity, calm, access to your creativity and helping you move from survival to thriving.
If you are experiencing grief, life transitions, trauma, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, loneliness and other types of emotional distress or seeking a safe place to explore your concerns around sexuality, gender or spirituality, I hope you will reach out. Together we can get to know the various parts of you that are struggling and find out what you need for self understanding, resilient coping, self compassion, curiosity, calm, access to your creativity and helping you move from survival to thriving.
(548) 483-5654 View (548) 483-5654
Photo of Leah Krisak, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in London, ON
Leah Krisak
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
London, ON N6B
Areas of focus: trauma, couples, perinatal challenges, self-exploration, mood disorders (anxiety/depression), grief, family conflict, relationship issues, identity confusion and more.
In person/online ->You may be unsure of what you're looking for but feel there are parts of yourself that seem out of touch with the world and yearn to feel, see, and experience more in your life. It can feel overwhelming to sit with a stranger and explore new and vulnerable parts of yourself but I promise to make you feel safe and heard. Often times our areas of needed growth are exposed through this vulnerability which allows us to explore parts of ourselves that weren't accessible before. I help individuals find connection with the things they care about most in their lives.
Areas of focus: trauma, couples, perinatal challenges, self-exploration, mood disorders (anxiety/depression), grief, family conflict, relationship issues, identity confusion and more.
In person/online ->You may be unsure of what you're looking for but feel there are parts of yourself that seem out of touch with the world and yearn to feel, see, and experience more in your life. It can feel overwhelming to sit with a stranger and explore new and vulnerable parts of yourself but I promise to make you feel safe and heard. Often times our areas of needed growth are exposed through this vulnerability which allows us to explore parts of ourselves that weren't accessible before. I help individuals find connection with the things they care about most in their lives.
(226) 779-4861 View (226) 779-4861
Photo of Mark Shelvock, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in London, ON
Mark Shelvock
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), CT, MACP, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
London, ON N6H  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing trauma and grief responsive care to young, middle-aged, or elderly adults, in addition to LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy.
I am passionate about fostering restorative and expansive post-traumatic growth. I welcome big feelings, mystery, existential questions, complex issues around relationships or trauma, and extraordinary health concerns. I can support you in learning how to lean into your pain and grow your edges so that you can express yourself more authentically. My intention is to help you become the most integrated, whole version of your unique self, leading to more connection, freedom, and meaning in your life. I use safe holistic practices to connect people to their own innate wisdom; coherence between your mind, heart, and body is possible.
I specialize in providing trauma and grief responsive care to young, middle-aged, or elderly adults, in addition to LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy.
I am passionate about fostering restorative and expansive post-traumatic growth. I welcome big feelings, mystery, existential questions, complex issues around relationships or trauma, and extraordinary health concerns. I can support you in learning how to lean into your pain and grow your edges so that you can express yourself more authentically. My intention is to help you become the most integrated, whole version of your unique self, leading to more connection, freedom, and meaning in your life. I use safe holistic practices to connect people to their own innate wisdom; coherence between your mind, heart, and body is possible.
(226) 909-2579 View (226) 909-2579
Photo of Jared Dalton, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Jared Dalton
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
London, ON N6B
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in providing trauma informed care to youth (14+), young adults and couples who are navigating life with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD and substance use concerns as well as those who wish to improve their relationships, their careers and their academic performance.
Are you looking for a therapist who understands the unique challenges youth and young adults face and wont dismiss your concerns about the climate, social justice and your future? Do you sometimes feel immobilized by the gravity of it all? Are you looking for a safe and nonjudgemental space to explore your identity, your purpose and your path?
I specialize in providing trauma informed care to youth (14+), young adults and couples who are navigating life with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD and substance use concerns as well as those who wish to improve their relationships, their careers and their academic performance.
Are you looking for a therapist who understands the unique challenges youth and young adults face and wont dismiss your concerns about the climate, social justice and your future? Do you sometimes feel immobilized by the gravity of it all? Are you looking for a safe and nonjudgemental space to explore your identity, your purpose and your path?
(226) 210-9750 View (226) 210-9750
Photo of Lauren Bulckaert, Registered Social Worker in London, ON
Lauren Bulckaert
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
London, ON N6K
My over 20 years of experience in mental health and substance use and settings informs my work. I work with people impacted by their mental health, specifically anxiety, depression, ADHD and people who hear voices. I also support people to better their understanding of substance use in their life through harm reduction. With my extensive front-line social work experience, I support front-line workers navigating grief, loss and burnout. Finally, as someone from the 2SLGBTQ community who is non-binary and queer, I can support and bring lived experiences to the topics of coming out and navigating a gender journey.
My over 20 years of experience in mental health and substance use and settings informs my work. I work with people impacted by their mental health, specifically anxiety, depression, ADHD and people who hear voices. I also support people to better their understanding of substance use in their life through harm reduction. With my extensive front-line social work experience, I support front-line workers navigating grief, loss and burnout. Finally, as someone from the 2SLGBTQ community who is non-binary and queer, I can support and bring lived experiences to the topics of coming out and navigating a gender journey.
(647) 492-4270 View (647) 492-4270

See more therapy options for London

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.