Grief Therapists in Cookstown, ON

Photo of Rachel LaRosee, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Rachel LaRosee
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cookstown, ON L0L
I provide individual therapy (including children 7+) for difficult life transitions, divorce/separation, grief/ loss, anger and stress management, anxiety, depression, trauma, and low self-esteem.
I have always had a passion for helping others. With previous work experience in different environments, I have been exposed to the complexities of life, which has developed my belief that change, growth and healing is possible if individuals are supported with compassion, empathy, and non-judgement. This belief has become my therapeutic approach, along with recognizing and valuing that each client is unique, making the therapy process unique.
I provide individual therapy (including children 7+) for difficult life transitions, divorce/separation, grief/ loss, anger and stress management, anxiety, depression, trauma, and low self-esteem.
I have always had a passion for helping others. With previous work experience in different environments, I have been exposed to the complexities of life, which has developed my belief that change, growth and healing is possible if individuals are supported with compassion, empathy, and non-judgement. This belief has become my therapeutic approach, along with recognizing and valuing that each client is unique, making the therapy process unique.
(888) 340-4325 View (888) 340-4325
Photo of Sabine Cox - Sabine Cox, RP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Sabine Cox, RP
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cookstown, ON L0L
Waitlist for new clients
Accepting new supervision clients in September ................................................ Life is a journey - and sometimes the path is rocky. Having a helping hand can make the difference between giving up and moving on in both personal life and professional practice. For over 24 years I have helped many people move toward growth, emotional healing and joy. If you struggle with inexplicable anxiety, sadness or confusion, feel trapped in a life that doesn’t seem to suit you anymore or have lost sight of what brings you joy and energy, you may benefit from having a mirror that allows you to rediscover who you really are.
Accepting new supervision clients in September ................................................ Life is a journey - and sometimes the path is rocky. Having a helping hand can make the difference between giving up and moving on in both personal life and professional practice. For over 24 years I have helped many people move toward growth, emotional healing and joy. If you struggle with inexplicable anxiety, sadness or confusion, feel trapped in a life that doesn’t seem to suit you anymore or have lost sight of what brings you joy and energy, you may benefit from having a mirror that allows you to rediscover who you really are.
(647) 931-3049 View (647) 931-3049
Photo of Amanda Bertolo, MA, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Amanda Bertolo
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cookstown, ON L0L
Do you feel consumed by your emotions? Are you experiencing low mood, feelings of anxiety, depression or hopelessness? Are you struggling in your relationships? Do you find yourself stuck in the same re-ocurring, negative cycles? You do not have to navigate through this alone. Therapy can help you manage your emotions, develop healthy relationships and recognize the "why" behind what you do and how you feel. I specialize in helping adults and teenagers who are struggling with anxiety and depression, increase their self-esteem and self-worth and create healthier relationships.
Do you feel consumed by your emotions? Are you experiencing low mood, feelings of anxiety, depression or hopelessness? Are you struggling in your relationships? Do you find yourself stuck in the same re-ocurring, negative cycles? You do not have to navigate through this alone. Therapy can help you manage your emotions, develop healthy relationships and recognize the "why" behind what you do and how you feel. I specialize in helping adults and teenagers who are struggling with anxiety and depression, increase their self-esteem and self-worth and create healthier relationships.
(249) 496-1972 View (249) 496-1972
Photo of Lindsay Crowe, RSW, MSW, CPT, Registered Social Worker
Lindsay Crowe
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, CPT
Verified Verified
Cookstown, ON L0L
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! I strongly believe that we all have healing capacities, internal strengths, and resiliency. Yet, sometimes we experience situations, thoughts or emotions that are distressing, challenging or uncomfortable and we find ourselves stuck or unsure of how to move forward. In these times, therapy can be a supportive place to explore and empower you to discover the next steps on your life journey. I am a Registered Social Worker and have been providing therapy for children, adolescents and adults for the last 8years. I work to create a safe space to join individuals on their journey to reflect, process, learn and heal.
Welcome! I strongly believe that we all have healing capacities, internal strengths, and resiliency. Yet, sometimes we experience situations, thoughts or emotions that are distressing, challenging or uncomfortable and we find ourselves stuck or unsure of how to move forward. In these times, therapy can be a supportive place to explore and empower you to discover the next steps on your life journey. I am a Registered Social Worker and have been providing therapy for children, adolescents and adults for the last 8years. I work to create a safe space to join individuals on their journey to reflect, process, learn and heal.
(249) 202-2296 View (249) 202-2296

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jillian Langtry - Simply Connected Therapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Simply Connected Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
We specialize in working with trauma and have expertise in areas such as complex trauma, couples therapy, anxiety, grief, sports performance, depression and relationships.
We are accepting new clients! As therapists, we believe in the incredible power of connection. Building a therapeutic relationship with you is at the core of our practice together. We strive to create a safe and empathetic space where you can feel truly heard AND seen. Through this connection, we can explore and heal while fostering growth and transformation.
We specialize in working with trauma and have expertise in areas such as complex trauma, couples therapy, anxiety, grief, sports performance, depression and relationships.
We are accepting new clients! As therapists, we believe in the incredible power of connection. Building a therapeutic relationship with you is at the core of our practice together. We strive to create a safe and empathetic space where you can feel truly heard AND seen. Through this connection, we can explore and heal while fostering growth and transformation.
(343) 338-5468 View (343) 338-5468
Photo of Tracie Atkinson, Counsellor
Tracie Atkinson
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Oro Station, ON L0L
With over 8 years experience as an Emergency Crisis Responder, I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact tragedy can have on individuals and families alike. The physical and emotional effect on those that have been victims of a crime or have experienced sudden loss can be overwhelming. It is because of this work I’ve devoted my practice to helping victims understand and comprehend their emotions and circumstances. By providing a safe, supportive and confidential environment, together we will work on processing the trauma and start the journey towards healing.
With over 8 years experience as an Emergency Crisis Responder, I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact tragedy can have on individuals and families alike. The physical and emotional effect on those that have been victims of a crime or have experienced sudden loss can be overwhelming. It is because of this work I’ve devoted my practice to helping victims understand and comprehend their emotions and circumstances. By providing a safe, supportive and confidential environment, together we will work on processing the trauma and start the journey towards healing.
(249) 294-1228 View (249) 294-1228
Photo of Janelle Anderson - Collective Care Counselling, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Collective Care Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
Are you navigating questions about your sexual orientation or gender identity? Are your experiencing relationship distress? Are you healing from the loss of a loved one? At Collective Care Counselling, we specialize in the following areas: trauma, grief and loss, spirituality, gender identity, transitioning, LGBTQIA2s+, perinatal mental health, OCD, BDD, neurodiversity (ADHD, autism, etc.), concussions, and many other topics. All of our therapists work from a trauma-informed, strengths-based, anti-oppressive and intersectional framework.
Are you navigating questions about your sexual orientation or gender identity? Are your experiencing relationship distress? Are you healing from the loss of a loved one? At Collective Care Counselling, we specialize in the following areas: trauma, grief and loss, spirituality, gender identity, transitioning, LGBTQIA2s+, perinatal mental health, OCD, BDD, neurodiversity (ADHD, autism, etc.), concussions, and many other topics. All of our therapists work from a trauma-informed, strengths-based, anti-oppressive and intersectional framework.
(705) 896-6936 View (705) 896-6936
Photo of Raluca Petridis, RP, MA, CCC, EMDR, Registered Psychotherapist
Raluca Petridis
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, CCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
As a bereaved parent myself (miscarriages & neonatal death), I am passionate about working with other bereaved parents as well as those experiencing any loss.
Are you feeling stressed? Overwhelmed? Anxious? Depressed? Do you have low self-esteem or low self confidence? Do you feel as though you've lost yourself? I offer a therapy space where you can be yourself, a place that welcomes you as you are, in all your true colours, with your raw & unedited thoughts & emotions. Whatever you're experiencing, you're not alone. Together, we can navigate your current circumstances and find healthier coping mechanisms to move you towards your goals.
As a bereaved parent myself (miscarriages & neonatal death), I am passionate about working with other bereaved parents as well as those experiencing any loss.
Are you feeling stressed? Overwhelmed? Anxious? Depressed? Do you have low self-esteem or low self confidence? Do you feel as though you've lost yourself? I offer a therapy space where you can be yourself, a place that welcomes you as you are, in all your true colours, with your raw & unedited thoughts & emotions. Whatever you're experiencing, you're not alone. Together, we can navigate your current circumstances and find healthier coping mechanisms to move you towards your goals.
(289) 763-9898 View (289) 763-9898
Photo of Sandra Corelli, RP-Q, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sandra Corelli
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP-Q
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M  (Online Only)
Welcome to a space where you can be unapologetically human. I know life might feel heavy right now, and you might not know where to start. You may be carrying worries, fears, sadness, or regret. You may feel lonely, anxious, overwhelmed, or burned out. You may be thinking, “I just want to understand why I feel this way!” The reality is that life can be messy and full of unexpected twists and turns. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, grief, depression, relationship issues, a career transition, or you are navigating a chronic illness or autoimmune condition, I am here to support you without judgment.
Welcome to a space where you can be unapologetically human. I know life might feel heavy right now, and you might not know where to start. You may be carrying worries, fears, sadness, or regret. You may feel lonely, anxious, overwhelmed, or burned out. You may be thinking, “I just want to understand why I feel this way!” The reality is that life can be messy and full of unexpected twists and turns. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, grief, depression, relationship issues, a career transition, or you are navigating a chronic illness or autoimmune condition, I am here to support you without judgment.
(647) 250-9704 View (647) 250-9704
Photo of Laura Fess - Vox Mental Health, CYW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Vox Mental Health
Registered Social Worker, CYW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
We are trained to support you with any of the following: Stress & Anxiety, Body Image, Marriage Conflict, Family Dynamics + Parenting, Depression, Couples Infidelity, Boundary Setting, Teens, Trauma, Self Esteem & Efficacy, Grief & Loss, Isolation & Loneliness, Body & Food, Attachment Disorders, Developmental Trauma, Moral Injury, Burnout, & Racial Identity.
VOX Mental Health is a person-centred, trauma informed counselling practice that is committed to creating a safe, judgement free, supportive environment where you can begin to use your voice. Whether it is setting boundaries, processing your family of origin, working through marriage difficulties, setting goals, or developing coping tools for anxiety, we are here to support you and create a tailor-made treatment plan unique to you and your situation. We offer both virtual and in-person sessions that service individuals, families, and couples in Ontario Canada.
We are trained to support you with any of the following: Stress & Anxiety, Body Image, Marriage Conflict, Family Dynamics + Parenting, Depression, Couples Infidelity, Boundary Setting, Teens, Trauma, Self Esteem & Efficacy, Grief & Loss, Isolation & Loneliness, Body & Food, Attachment Disorders, Developmental Trauma, Moral Injury, Burnout, & Racial Identity.
VOX Mental Health is a person-centred, trauma informed counselling practice that is committed to creating a safe, judgement free, supportive environment where you can begin to use your voice. Whether it is setting boundaries, processing your family of origin, working through marriage difficulties, setting goals, or developing coping tools for anxiety, we are here to support you and create a tailor-made treatment plan unique to you and your situation. We offer both virtual and in-person sessions that service individuals, families, and couples in Ontario Canada.
(249) 487-0951 View (249) 487-0951
Photo of Kim M Kitchen, MA, RP, OAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist
Kim M Kitchen
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, OAMHP
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
I worked for 17 years providing community based therapy/counselling as an Addictions Therapist with a premier mental health and addictions hospital. Recently I have been the Senior Clinician with a community based mental health services program. I offer personalized and confidential services with a non-judgemental, empathic, and supportive approach. Along with Addiction based services for individuals and their family members, I have worked extensively with parent-teen and family based conflict, relationships, domestic violence, trauma, anger management and conflict resolution, mental health (eg. anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, OCD, stress, suicide) as well as school refusal and peer difficulties.
I worked for 17 years providing community based therapy/counselling as an Addictions Therapist with a premier mental health and addictions hospital. Recently I have been the Senior Clinician with a community based mental health services program. I offer personalized and confidential services with a non-judgemental, empathic, and supportive approach. Along with Addiction based services for individuals and their family members, I have worked extensively with parent-teen and family based conflict, relationships, domestic violence, trauma, anger management and conflict resolution, mental health (eg. anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, OCD, stress, suicide) as well as school refusal and peer difficulties.
(844) 334-6624 View (844) 334-6624
Photo of Rachelle Watson - Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M  (Online Only)
My areas of practice include emotion dysregulation (BPD and bipolar disorder), depression and anxiety, and grief and loss.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
My areas of practice include emotion dysregulation (BPD and bipolar disorder), depression and anxiety, and grief and loss.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
(289) 806-5137 View (289) 806-5137
Photo of Lisa Woodcock, BA, BSW, MA, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Lisa Woodcock
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MA, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Life can be difficult. We all experience challenges and could benefit from working through them with the help of someone else. For over 25 years, I have supported individuals with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, parenting, life transitions, compassion fatigue, burnout, and grief related to sudden death, suicide or homicide. Supporting growth from a place of loss or crisis is my passion and I believe in working together to make any struggle more manageable.
Life can be difficult. We all experience challenges and could benefit from working through them with the help of someone else. For over 25 years, I have supported individuals with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, parenting, life transitions, compassion fatigue, burnout, and grief related to sudden death, suicide or homicide. Supporting growth from a place of loss or crisis is my passion and I believe in working together to make any struggle more manageable.
(289) 723-1934 View (289) 723-1934
Photo of Jessica O'Connor - Vault Mental Health - Barrie , Registered Social Worker
Vault Mental Health - Barrie
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Our goal is to match you with the ideal therapist who aligns with your unique treatment needs and lifestyle! Our specialties include: Depression, Anxiety & Stress, Addiction, Self Esteem & Self Esteem & Confidence, Life Transitions, Relationship/ Marriage Support, Isolation & Loneliness, Anger Management, Boundary Setting, Grief & Loss, Trauma & PTSD & More!.
At Vault Mental Health, we can connect you to a therapist best suited for you. It takes courage to initiate therapy but investing in your well-being is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. Whether you are seeking to learn strategies to cope with life's ups and downs, tools to manage challenging emotions, or support with difficult life events, it is our privilege to be here for you. Our diversely skilled group of Registered Psychotherapists and Registered Social Workers are here to help you get results. We will create a tailor-made treatment plan unique to you and your situation.
Our goal is to match you with the ideal therapist who aligns with your unique treatment needs and lifestyle! Our specialties include: Depression, Anxiety & Stress, Addiction, Self Esteem & Self Esteem & Confidence, Life Transitions, Relationship/ Marriage Support, Isolation & Loneliness, Anger Management, Boundary Setting, Grief & Loss, Trauma & PTSD & More!.
At Vault Mental Health, we can connect you to a therapist best suited for you. It takes courage to initiate therapy but investing in your well-being is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. Whether you are seeking to learn strategies to cope with life's ups and downs, tools to manage challenging emotions, or support with difficult life events, it is our privilege to be here for you. Our diversely skilled group of Registered Psychotherapists and Registered Social Workers are here to help you get results. We will create a tailor-made treatment plan unique to you and your situation.
(249) 492-9384 View (249) 492-9384
Photo of Monica Logtenberg, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Monica Logtenberg
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
My specialties include but are not limited to grief, bi-polar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, trauma.
Are you struggling to find balance in your daily life challenges? Do you feel emotional dysregulation, irregular feelings towards important persons in your life, feelings of insignificance in people’s lives, sadness, impulse control. I understand this isolation of feeling dysregulated and trapped without the ability to express intense thoughts and feelings.
My specialties include but are not limited to grief, bi-polar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, trauma.
Are you struggling to find balance in your daily life challenges? Do you feel emotional dysregulation, irregular feelings towards important persons in your life, feelings of insignificance in people’s lives, sadness, impulse control. I understand this isolation of feeling dysregulated and trapped without the ability to express intense thoughts and feelings.
(289) 277-7096 View (289) 277-7096
Photo of Toronto Relationship Clinic - Toronto Relationship Clinic, Registered Social Worker
Toronto Relationship Clinic
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M  (Online Only)
We are a growing collective of independent mental health professionals who are radically anti-oppressive, anti-empire, and abolitionist in our approach, and working towards decolonizing mental health and wellness spaces. We provide care that is culturally responsive, social justice informed, emotionally attuned, trauma focused, systems-oriented, collaborative, inclusive, respectful, and compassionate. Our clinical team includes psychotherapists who specialize in working with grief, anxiety, depression, complex trauma, neurodivergence, and navigating life transitions. We've been changing people's lives since 2019!
We are a growing collective of independent mental health professionals who are radically anti-oppressive, anti-empire, and abolitionist in our approach, and working towards decolonizing mental health and wellness spaces. We provide care that is culturally responsive, social justice informed, emotionally attuned, trauma focused, systems-oriented, collaborative, inclusive, respectful, and compassionate. Our clinical team includes psychotherapists who specialize in working with grief, anxiety, depression, complex trauma, neurodivergence, and navigating life transitions. We've been changing people's lives since 2019!
(289) 806-5042 View (289) 806-5042
Photo of Roberta (Robbi) Currie, RP, BAPsych, Registered Psychotherapist
Roberta (Robbi) Currie
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BAPsych
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
I invite you to reflect together on the roads you have travelled as we align with your authentic self. You may be experiencing loss and grief, anxiety, depression, suffering rooted in childhood, relationship, or career. We will compassionately bear witness to your story, identifying strengths and building resilience. We will restore a sense of joy, hope and meaning in your life. My approach is mindfulness-based and grounded in compassionate inquiry. Aspects of didactic, cognitive, behavioural, acceptance and commitment modalities are interwoven throughout sessions.
I invite you to reflect together on the roads you have travelled as we align with your authentic self. You may be experiencing loss and grief, anxiety, depression, suffering rooted in childhood, relationship, or career. We will compassionately bear witness to your story, identifying strengths and building resilience. We will restore a sense of joy, hope and meaning in your life. My approach is mindfulness-based and grounded in compassionate inquiry. Aspects of didactic, cognitive, behavioural, acceptance and commitment modalities are interwoven throughout sessions.
(705) 805-1736 View (705) 805-1736
Photo of Paulette Light, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Paulette Light
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elmvale, ON L0L
I have experience working in community settings, supporting individuals impacted by grief & bereavement, anxiety, depression, stress, and adjustment issues.
Do you need someone to talk to that can help you to process feelings and thoughts, help you identify skills for coping, and build on your inner strengths? If you are not feeling like yourself, or you are struggling with mental health concerns, please contact me for a complimentary phone consultation to discuss how I might be able to help you on your way to feeling better.
I have experience working in community settings, supporting individuals impacted by grief & bereavement, anxiety, depression, stress, and adjustment issues.
Do you need someone to talk to that can help you to process feelings and thoughts, help you identify skills for coping, and build on your inner strengths? If you are not feeling like yourself, or you are struggling with mental health concerns, please contact me for a complimentary phone consultation to discuss how I might be able to help you on your way to feeling better.
(249) 500-5371 View (249) 500-5371
Photo of Jessy Danyluk, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Jessy Danyluk
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BA
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
Welcome to Therapy Heals! My previous experience allows me to work with a wide scope of clients including children, teens, young adults, families and couples and a wide range of mental health issues such as anxiety disorders, eating disorders, depression/suicidal ideation, grief support/end of life support and neurodivergent disorders such as ADHD and ASD. I have training and experience using a variety of therapeutic modalities, such as Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Therapeutic Play and Couple’s Counselling.
Welcome to Therapy Heals! My previous experience allows me to work with a wide scope of clients including children, teens, young adults, families and couples and a wide range of mental health issues such as anxiety disorders, eating disorders, depression/suicidal ideation, grief support/end of life support and neurodivergent disorders such as ADHD and ASD. I have training and experience using a variety of therapeutic modalities, such as Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Therapeutic Play and Couple’s Counselling.
(249) 202-5111 View (249) 202-5111
Photo of Jennifer Kerr, RSSW, BASc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Jennifer Kerr
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RSSW, BASc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
My specialties include working with childhood trauma, grief, couples counselling, estranged relationships and more.
Working through a trauma-informed lens, I use both a psychodynamic and humanistic approach with my clients. What I like to call "connecting the dots", I get an in-depth understanding of how your past experiences interrelate to your present ones. Specializing in childhood trauma, complex grief and couples counselling, I work with you and your nervous system to help reframe maladaptive thoughts and behaviors that are no longer serving you. I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to explore and understand your counselling goals.
My specialties include working with childhood trauma, grief, couples counselling, estranged relationships and more.
Working through a trauma-informed lens, I use both a psychodynamic and humanistic approach with my clients. What I like to call "connecting the dots", I get an in-depth understanding of how your past experiences interrelate to your present ones. Specializing in childhood trauma, complex grief and couples counselling, I work with you and your nervous system to help reframe maladaptive thoughts and behaviors that are no longer serving you. I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to explore and understand your counselling goals.
(249) 702-0916 View (249) 702-0916

See more therapy options for Cookstown

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.