Grief Support Groups in Fairfax, VA

This FREE group provides a safe environment for those mourning the death of a loved one due to homicide. The group is coordinated by the Virginia Victims Assistance Network and generously funded by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services. If you have questions please contact me or Scharnelle Hamlin at scharnelle.hamlin@vanetwork.org to register. At this time the group is only available for adults.
Photo of Leannah Farbotko, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Hosted by Leannah Farbotko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
I help clients process traumatic grief and loss due to various types of trauma and also those dealing with infertility.
This FREE group provides a safe environment for those mourning the death of a loved one due to homicide. The group is coordinated by the Virginia Victims Assistance Network and generously funded by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services. If you have questions please contact me or Scharnelle Hamlin at scharnelle.hamlin@vanetwork.org to register. At this time the group is only available for adults.
(571) 520-0873 View (571) 520-0873
Virtual Group for adult survivors who have had a loved one die during this time of a pandemic. The normal process of grief and mourning were disrupted with alterations in funerals, gatherings of family and friends, and religious rituals. This is a chance for members to process their feelings and experiences.
Photo of Nancy Wachtenheim - Nancy Wachtenheim, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Hosted by Nancy Wachtenheim, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
Virtual Group for adult survivors who have had a loved one die during this time of a pandemic. The normal process of grief and mourning were disrupted with alterations in funerals, gatherings of family and friends, and religious rituals. This is a chance for members to process their feelings and experiences.
(703) 634-4814 View (703) 634-4814
This unique group combines mindfulness meditation practices with group therapy for powerful personal growth. Join us on Wednesdays (weekly) from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. | $95 per session | Group Size: 5-6 people. (no former meditation experience required).
Photo of David Paul - Cabush, Paul and Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MDiv
Hosted by Cabush, Paul and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MDiv
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
This unique group combines mindfulness meditation practices with group therapy for powerful personal growth. Join us on Wednesdays (weekly) from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. | $95 per session | Group Size: 5-6 people. (no former meditation experience required).
(202) 849-9624 View (202) 849-9624
This group is intended for those dealing with general anxiety, job insecurity, health concerns, relationship issues, or the impact of global events. Individuals can find solace and strength within the community of the therapy group. The six-week therapy group aims to provide participants with tools and techniques to manage anxiety and uncertainty effectively. Each session will focus on different aspects of anxiety management, incorporating cognitive-behavioral therapy principles, mindfulness practices, and group discussions.
Photo of Autumn McCain - Healing Through Connection LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Hosted by Healing Through Connection LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
This group is intended for those dealing with general anxiety, job insecurity, health concerns, relationship issues, or the impact of global events. Individuals can find solace and strength within the community of the therapy group. The six-week therapy group aims to provide participants with tools and techniques to manage anxiety and uncertainty effectively. Each session will focus on different aspects of anxiety management, incorporating cognitive-behavioral therapy principles, mindfulness practices, and group discussions.
(571) 789-2263 View (571) 789-2263

More Groups Nearby

The holidays can be a difficult time for those who are spending the season without their loved one. Whether the loss is recent or in years prior, the stress of the holiday season can present unforeseen challenges. As prey animals, horses are uniquely attuned to not only their surrounding but the minute energetic vibrations we emit, non-verbal cues, body language, and the unspoken feelings that may be keeping us from fully processing our grief. Horses meets us where we are, unconditionally, providing a space to explore our grief and mourn without fear of judgement.
Photo of Ailish R Dermody, Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC, CGP
Hosted by Ailish R Dermody
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC, CGP
Group meets in Great Falls, VA 22066
Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy (Level 1 and 2), National Certified Counselor (NCC), Certified Grief Professional (CGP)
The holidays can be a difficult time for those who are spending the season without their loved one. Whether the loss is recent or in years prior, the stress of the holiday season can present unforeseen challenges. As prey animals, horses are uniquely attuned to not only their surrounding but the minute energetic vibrations we emit, non-verbal cues, body language, and the unspoken feelings that may be keeping us from fully processing our grief. Horses meets us where we are, unconditionally, providing a space to explore our grief and mourn without fear of judgement.
(571) 462-6494 View (571) 462-6494
Grief & Loss: Healing Through Life Transitions A supportive therapy group for individuals grieving the loss of a relationship, loved one, or life as they knew it. Whether you're navigating divorce, death, or major change, this group offers space to process your emotions, rebuild your identity, and move forward with clarity and compassion. We draw from CBT, ACT, and mindfulness to support your healing journey.
Photo of Meagan Capers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCAS, LCSW, CCS
Hosted by Meagan Capers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCAS, LCSW, CCS
Group meets in Reston, VA 20191
I support neurodivergent individuals, women, LGBTQIA clients, Veterans, professionals, and those navigating grief, trauma, burnout, recovery, or general mental health concerns.
Grief & Loss: Healing Through Life Transitions A supportive therapy group for individuals grieving the loss of a relationship, loved one, or life as they knew it. Whether you're navigating divorce, death, or major change, this group offers space to process your emotions, rebuild your identity, and move forward with clarity and compassion. We draw from CBT, ACT, and mindfulness to support your healing journey.
(703) 215-2630 View (703) 215-2630
Grief/ Loss group for adults who are dealing with loss related to death, illness, infertility, adoption, or sudden death.
Photo of Mari J Itzkowitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TAC
Hosted by Mari J Itzkowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TAC
Group meets in Annandale, VA 22003
Grief/ Loss group for adults who are dealing with loss related to death, illness, infertility, adoption, or sudden death.
(703) 468-8884 View (703) 468-8884
This is a virtual process group for those who have experienced the loss of a loved one and are engaged in the difficult journey of figuring out what their life looks like in this new reality. This group is an opportunity to not only have space to explore and process your own lived experiences, but a space to find some community support as well as continue to build your own coping skills.
Photo of Brianna Ector, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Brianna Ector
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in Alexandria, VA 22315
This is a virtual process group for those who have experienced the loss of a loved one and are engaged in the difficult journey of figuring out what their life looks like in this new reality. This group is an opportunity to not only have space to explore and process your own lived experiences, but a space to find some community support as well as continue to build your own coping skills.
(571) 474-3404 View (571) 474-3404
NoVa Grief Support and Counseling is a collective practice of independent therapists located in Northern Virginia who have come together to provide support for individuals of all ages experiencing grief and loss. Our team of counselors offer support for those experiencing all types of grief, including anticipatory and ambiguous losses, acute grief following a death, or unprocessed grief from many years ago. We can also offer support for those navigating challenging life transitions and non- death losses. Our team members have specialized training and experience in grief. More information can be found on our website: https://novagriefsupport.com/
Photo of Chesley H Simpson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, GC-C
Hosted by Chesley H Simpson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, GC-C
Group meets in Falls Church, VA 22046
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Grief Counselor, I embrace helping others with loss, grief and life transitions.
NoVa Grief Support and Counseling is a collective practice of independent therapists located in Northern Virginia who have come together to provide support for individuals of all ages experiencing grief and loss. Our team of counselors offer support for those experiencing all types of grief, including anticipatory and ambiguous losses, acute grief following a death, or unprocessed grief from many years ago. We can also offer support for those navigating challenging life transitions and non- death losses. Our team members have specialized training and experience in grief. More information can be found on our website: https://novagriefsupport.com/
(703) 844-2687 View (703) 844-2687
This support and therapy group offers a compassionate space for individuals navigating life after a double mastectomy. Through shared experience, we foster connection, validation, and healing. Together, we explore identity, grief, strength, and self-compassion in a supportive and judgment-free environment. You are not alone—come as you are and connect with others who truly understand.
Photo of Hope A Saadat - Theia Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Hosted by Theia Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Group meets in Vienna, VA 22182
This support and therapy group offers a compassionate space for individuals navigating life after a double mastectomy. Through shared experience, we foster connection, validation, and healing. Together, we explore identity, grief, strength, and self-compassion in a supportive and judgment-free environment. You are not alone—come as you are and connect with others who truly understand.
(571) 322-8351 View (571) 322-8351
If you have suffered the loss of a loved one, and are struggling with grief and mourning, this group will offer you support and coping skills in an accepting setting. Dates TBD. Please contact Dr. Epstein at 703-389-1931 for more information.
Photo of Jason Epstein, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Jason Epstein
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in Woodbridge, VA 22193
If you have suffered the loss of a loved one, and are struggling with grief and mourning, this group will offer you support and coping skills in an accepting setting. Dates TBD. Please contact Dr. Epstein at 703-389-1931 for more information.
(571) 253-7672 View (571) 253-7672
The end of a relationship, the death of a loved one, the loss of a dream you hoped to achieve but now can't... issues of grief affect everyone at some point in their life. Grief is hard yet it is a natural response to loss and there are ways to respond that can ensure a healthier outcome. Having supportive others along for the ride can help. Come join us for insight, affirmations, sharing emotions, telling stories, reminiscence, and positive future-planning. We'll help you connect with your grief in a healthy, life-embracing way.
Photo of Jill Changizi-Kerr, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Hosted by Jill Changizi-Kerr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Group meets in Sterling, VA 20166
For individuals, I focus on cognitive-behavioral techniques except in the area of grief where I do more emotional exploration and developing healthy coping strategies.
The end of a relationship, the death of a loved one, the loss of a dream you hoped to achieve but now can't... issues of grief affect everyone at some point in their life. Grief is hard yet it is a natural response to loss and there are ways to respond that can ensure a healthier outcome. Having supportive others along for the ride can help. Come join us for insight, affirmations, sharing emotions, telling stories, reminiscence, and positive future-planning. We'll help you connect with your grief in a healthy, life-embracing way.
(571) 526-0243 View (571) 526-0243
**On Hold**Maybe you have tried dealing with the loss of a loved one on your own or you have opened up to others and no one understands. Whether you have lost someone 40+ years ago or it's only been a few weeks, I encourage you to work through your feelings in our intimate group. At the conclusion of week twelve, you will learn how to carry your loved one with you, rather than leave them behind. *This will be a 12 week structured group using the Meaning Reconstruction framework by Robert A. Neimeyer, PhD.*
Photo of Allyson Luna - Luna Counseling Solutions, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Hosted by Luna Counseling Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Group meets in Leesburg, VA 20175
**On Hold**Maybe you have tried dealing with the loss of a loved one on your own or you have opened up to others and no one understands. Whether you have lost someone 40+ years ago or it's only been a few weeks, I encourage you to work through your feelings in our intimate group. At the conclusion of week twelve, you will learn how to carry your loved one with you, rather than leave them behind. *This will be a 12 week structured group using the Meaning Reconstruction framework by Robert A. Neimeyer, PhD.*
(540) 274-1583 View (540) 274-1583
Through the use of bereavement groups, teens can learn more effective ways to use social support during mourning. This group is designed to provide teens with an opportunity to process and grieve their loss in a safe and supportive environment with their peers. During this developmental stage, teens strongly rely on peers for support, understanding and acceptance. Registration is ongoing for this open group. Email for more information.
Photo of Tamara Port, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CCTP
Hosted by Tamara Port
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CCTP
Group meets in Hamilton, VA 20158
Trauma-certified and grief-informed, I also specialize in anxiety, life transitions, and supporting military/foreign service professionals.
Through the use of bereavement groups, teens can learn more effective ways to use social support during mourning. This group is designed to provide teens with an opportunity to process and grieve their loss in a safe and supportive environment with their peers. During this developmental stage, teens strongly rely on peers for support, understanding and acceptance. Registration is ongoing for this open group. Email for more information.
(571) 200-3249 View (571) 200-3249
Update for 2025. Late spring/summer group forming right now. If you're in your 20-40's and you've experienced the death of a parent, this group will help you process your grief in the company of one psychotherapist and peers who get it. Topics include guilt and anxiety, defining grief, finding community, exploring forgiveness and meaning-making. Learn more by visiting www.sarahmoorelpc.com or emailing jane@sarahmoorelpc.com. Start date is late May. This group is virtual and is open to anyone located in Virginia or DC.
Photo of Jane Lowery, Resident in Counseling, MA, LGPC-DC
Hosted by Jane Lowery
Resident in Counseling, MA, LGPC-DC
Group meets in Arlington, VA 22209
In grief work, I make a lot of space for the complex feelings that loss brings up.
Update for 2025. Late spring/summer group forming right now. If you're in your 20-40's and you've experienced the death of a parent, this group will help you process your grief in the company of one psychotherapist and peers who get it. Topics include guilt and anxiety, defining grief, finding community, exploring forgiveness and meaning-making. Learn more by visiting www.sarahmoorelpc.com or emailing jane@sarahmoorelpc.com. Start date is late May. This group is virtual and is open to anyone located in Virginia or DC.
(571) 470-5940 View (571) 470-5940
Now Forming: “Parent Loss in Young Adulthood”. In response to numerous requests, our Arlington women’s therapy practice is again offering “Parent Loss in Young Adulthood”. Designed by Jane Lowery, M.A., Resident in Counseling, our group helps our loved ones in their 20’s and 30’s understand the grief process, reduce guilt & anxiety and develop their grief community. All while discovering their identities as adults. It will meet on Tuesdays from 7-8:15pm Online. Find out more here: Jane@sarahmoorelpc.com.
Photo of Sarah Moore, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Hosted by Sarah Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Group meets in Arlington, VA 22209
Now Forming: “Parent Loss in Young Adulthood”. In response to numerous requests, our Arlington women’s therapy practice is again offering “Parent Loss in Young Adulthood”. Designed by Jane Lowery, M.A., Resident in Counseling, our group helps our loved ones in their 20’s and 30’s understand the grief process, reduce guilt & anxiety and develop their grief community. All while discovering their identities as adults. It will meet on Tuesdays from 7-8:15pm Online. Find out more here: Jane@sarahmoorelpc.com.
(703) 454-8182 View (703) 454-8182
In this online group for women, we will explore topics for emotional wellness that include mindfulness, self-compassion, tools for nervous system reguation and healthy emotional expression. The aim of the group is to create a strengths-based group that guides participants in utilizing new tools for for emotional regulation.
Photo of Julie Fischer McCarter - Julie McCarter, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Julie McCarter, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Lansdowne, VA 20176
In this online group for women, we will explore topics for emotional wellness that include mindfulness, self-compassion, tools for nervous system reguation and healthy emotional expression. The aim of the group is to create a strengths-based group that guides participants in utilizing new tools for for emotional regulation.
(703) 997-8344 View (703) 997-8344
Our therapist-led support groups provide a safe, confidential space for active-duty service members, veterans, and military spouses to connect and heal. Each group is guided by a licensed mental health professional with experience in trauma and military culture. Sessions are held virtually for easy, stigma-free access and no paper trail. Topics include anxiety, trauma, infertility, grief, and life transitions. Whether you're navigating emotional challenges or seeking community, our groups offer tools, connection, and support tailored to the unique experiences of military life. You don’t have to go through it alone—healing starts here, together.
Photo of Kerri Bicskei - Mindful Warrior Alliance, Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, MSW, LMHCA, LPC
Hosted by Mindful Warrior Alliance
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, MSW, LMHCA, LPC
Group meets in Sterling, VA 20164
We help with anxiety, trauma, depression, grief, infertility, and military life stressors.
Our therapist-led support groups provide a safe, confidential space for active-duty service members, veterans, and military spouses to connect and heal. Each group is guided by a licensed mental health professional with experience in trauma and military culture. Sessions are held virtually for easy, stigma-free access and no paper trail. Topics include anxiety, trauma, infertility, grief, and life transitions. Whether you're navigating emotional challenges or seeking community, our groups offer tools, connection, and support tailored to the unique experiences of military life. You don’t have to go through it alone—healing starts here, together.
(703) 420-7345 View (703) 420-7345
Equine Assisted Mental Health Therapy is an evidenced-based experiential framework designed to allow participants the opportunity to safely interact with horses to learn and grow using the horse-human relationship. Groups focus on communication skills, leadership, self-control, problem-solving skills, recovery, self-awareness and other topics.
Photo of Susan Patricia Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Hosted by Susan Patricia Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Group meets in Gainesville, VA 20155
Equine Assisted Mental Health Therapy is an evidenced-based experiential framework designed to allow participants the opportunity to safely interact with horses to learn and grow using the horse-human relationship. Groups focus on communication skills, leadership, self-control, problem-solving skills, recovery, self-awareness and other topics.
(703) 845-0666 View (703) 845-0666
Are you struggling with the loss of a loved one? Are you unsure how to move forward following a major life change (ie, loss from death, divorce/separation)? The end of relationship, the death of a loved one, the loss of a dream you hoped to achieve but now can’t? Grief is hard yet it is a natural response to loss. It’s also much easier to address your grief if you have supportive others along for the ride. Insights, affirmations, sharing emotions, reminiscence, and positive future-planning tools will be our focus to help you move forward in a healthy, life-embracing way.
Photo of Caroline Ibrahim - Dulles Psychological Services, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Dulles Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in Sterling, VA 20166
Are you struggling with the loss of a loved one? Are you unsure how to move forward following a major life change (ie, loss from death, divorce/separation)? The end of relationship, the death of a loved one, the loss of a dream you hoped to achieve but now can’t? Grief is hard yet it is a natural response to loss. It’s also much easier to address your grief if you have supportive others along for the ride. Insights, affirmations, sharing emotions, reminiscence, and positive future-planning tools will be our focus to help you move forward in a healthy, life-embracing way.
(703) 686-5140 View (703) 686-5140

See more therapy options for Fairfax

Grief Support Groups

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.