Grief Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Vicki Goodman, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vicki Goodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
People come for psychotherapy when they are hurting or feeling stuck in unproductive thinking and behavior. This can manifest in depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, issues with career and work performance and self deprecating behaviors. Loss, grief and illnesses can be hard to bear and cause feelings of aloneness. What is often needed is a safe environment for the cultivation of acceptance and compassion and the willingness to wisely explore in a trusting relationship. Developing space to have a new understanding of difficulties can open to greater awareness, sense of possibility and the capacity to live more fully.
People come for psychotherapy when they are hurting or feeling stuck in unproductive thinking and behavior. This can manifest in depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, issues with career and work performance and self deprecating behaviors. Loss, grief and illnesses can be hard to bear and cause feelings of aloneness. What is often needed is a safe environment for the cultivation of acceptance and compassion and the willingness to wisely explore in a trusting relationship. Developing space to have a new understanding of difficulties can open to greater awareness, sense of possibility and the capacity to live more fully.
(202) 949-6462 View (202) 949-6462
Photo of Christian Greene - Eclectic DC, LICSW, PMH-C, WPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eclectic DC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PMH-C, WPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20018  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Striving to honor ourselves and our losses so that our loss honors those we love.
I identify as an ethicist; a Womanist who advocates and practices feminist ideals, cultural humility through continuous learning, bodily integrity, reproductive justice, sex work is work, pacifism by utilizing non-violent resistance techniques. I believe children have rights, whistleblowers are vital in society, I embrace LGBTQ+, Black Lives Matter is factual, and representation matters. I practice mindfulness with the philosophy of ‘margin to center’ action. I embody, advocate, and support activism in action and respect of human rights. Neither ever ends, even when it is inconvenient or uncomfortable. We must remain firmly resolved
Striving to honor ourselves and our losses so that our loss honors those we love.
I identify as an ethicist; a Womanist who advocates and practices feminist ideals, cultural humility through continuous learning, bodily integrity, reproductive justice, sex work is work, pacifism by utilizing non-violent resistance techniques. I believe children have rights, whistleblowers are vital in society, I embrace LGBTQ+, Black Lives Matter is factual, and representation matters. I practice mindfulness with the philosophy of ‘margin to center’ action. I embody, advocate, and support activism in action and respect of human rights. Neither ever ends, even when it is inconvenient or uncomfortable. We must remain firmly resolved
(202) 968-3652 View (202) 968-3652
Photo of Ryan Maddock, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryan Maddock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
One of my specializations is assisting individuals work through their grief/ loss experiences.
My goal as a therapist is to help you find the best ways to navigate your needs in a safe space. I will help you to engage in and to incorporate self-care into your day to day life. Have you recently felt like your life was changed forever? Have you experienced a loss of a job or a loved one or are currently in crisis? Have you experienced trauma in your life or are you feeling lost or anxious?
One of my specializations is assisting individuals work through their grief/ loss experiences.
My goal as a therapist is to help you find the best ways to navigate your needs in a safe space. I will help you to engage in and to incorporate self-care into your day to day life. Have you recently felt like your life was changed forever? Have you experienced a loss of a job or a loved one or are currently in crisis? Have you experienced trauma in your life or are you feeling lost or anxious?
(202) 915-6273 View (202) 915-6273
Photo of Aimee Caramico, PsyD, Psychologist
Aimee Caramico
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I work with all mental health and stress-related issues including life transitions, relationship issues, mood and anxiety disorders, women's issues, and grief.
I specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a mindfulness-based behavior therapy that focuses on helping clients live fulfilling and meaningful lives even with the struggles of everyday life. I offer a collaborative approach that helps to guide clients toward their goals through fostering insight and acceptance while also reducing avoidance behaviors. I believe that every person has a natural internal strength that I seek to foster through empowerment. My ultimate goal is to help clients drop the struggle and live a valued life so they can manage the inevitable ups and downs of the human experience on their own.
I work with all mental health and stress-related issues including life transitions, relationship issues, mood and anxiety disorders, women's issues, and grief.
I specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a mindfulness-based behavior therapy that focuses on helping clients live fulfilling and meaningful lives even with the struggles of everyday life. I offer a collaborative approach that helps to guide clients toward their goals through fostering insight and acceptance while also reducing avoidance behaviors. I believe that every person has a natural internal strength that I seek to foster through empowerment. My ultimate goal is to help clients drop the struggle and live a valued life so they can manage the inevitable ups and downs of the human experience on their own.
(202) 932-0587 View (202) 932-0587
Photo of Alysha Damratowski, MA, LGPC, Counselor
Alysha Damratowski
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) with Arelis Perez Psychotherapy Services. I have years of experience assisting individuals who have undergone challenging experiences, specializing in working with adults who have experienced stress, grief/ loss, anxiety, depression, attachment, adjustment disorders, and trauma. You are the expert in your own life and I believe that together, we can create a warm, empathetic, and supportive space to address your experiences and concerns. I prefer an integrative approach in working with my clients.
I'm a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) with Arelis Perez Psychotherapy Services. I have years of experience assisting individuals who have undergone challenging experiences, specializing in working with adults who have experienced stress, grief/ loss, anxiety, depression, attachment, adjustment disorders, and trauma. You are the expert in your own life and I believe that together, we can create a warm, empathetic, and supportive space to address your experiences and concerns. I prefer an integrative approach in working with my clients.
(202) 519-1131 View (202) 519-1131
Photo of Kristin Drouin, LICSW, APHSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Drouin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, APHSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
I specialize in working with individuals of all ages who are navigating illness, grief, loss, trauma, and professional burnout. My passion for supporting children, teens, young adults and families impacted by a life-limiting medical diagnosis is informed by the years I spent as a pediatric social worker. In my bereavement work, I support clients affected by all manner of death, with a particular focus on grief after the death of a parent, young child or sibling.
I specialize in working with individuals of all ages who are navigating illness, grief, loss, trauma, and professional burnout. My passion for supporting children, teens, young adults and families impacted by a life-limiting medical diagnosis is informed by the years I spent as a pediatric social worker. In my bereavement work, I support clients affected by all manner of death, with a particular focus on grief after the death of a parent, young child or sibling.
(202) 335-6360 View (202) 335-6360
Photo of Teresa E. Doniger, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teresa E. Doniger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
Some of my clients have had a loved one die and others are witnessing ongoing losses of a loved that come with terminal or debilitating diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, dementia, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, mental illness, and HIV/AIDS.
I have been working with young to mid career professionals since 2012. Since then, I have become a therapist that Gen X, Y, and Z clients seek out to address various types of life challenges. I enjoy providing support and encouragement to people who are facing life stage transitions and change with all of the stress, anxiety, as well as the excitement that these events may bring. My training is in family therapy and I work within the frameworks of family systems, attachment theory, as well as grief/ loss and living with loss.
Some of my clients have had a loved one die and others are witnessing ongoing losses of a loved that come with terminal or debilitating diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, dementia, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, mental illness, and HIV/AIDS.
I have been working with young to mid career professionals since 2012. Since then, I have become a therapist that Gen X, Y, and Z clients seek out to address various types of life challenges. I enjoy providing support and encouragement to people who are facing life stage transitions and change with all of the stress, anxiety, as well as the excitement that these events may bring. My training is in family therapy and I work within the frameworks of family systems, attachment theory, as well as grief/ loss and living with loss.
(202) 335-7347 View (202) 335-7347
Photo of Camille M White, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Camille M White
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
If you were to write a story about your life, what would the title of each chapter be? Our lives are a series of chapters that begin at birth and continue until death, each filled with a mix of experiences and responses to events. These chapters capture our highest achievements and deepest struggles. Imagine writing that story and sharing it with someone who can explore the content with you. What would it be like to write that story, reflect on it, and then re-write it with newfound understanding?
If you were to write a story about your life, what would the title of each chapter be? Our lives are a series of chapters that begin at birth and continue until death, each filled with a mix of experiences and responses to events. These chapters capture our highest achievements and deepest struggles. Imagine writing that story and sharing it with someone who can explore the content with you. What would it be like to write that story, reflect on it, and then re-write it with newfound understanding?
(877) 574-1091 View (877) 574-1091
Photo of Celebration Of Life Healing Practice- Valerie A Noblin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Celebration Of Life Healing Practice- Valerie A Noblin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20017  (Online Only)
I utilize my skills and training to guide individuals towards recognizing root causes of depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma symptoms.
One thing that I feel most accomplished about is being able to effectively “hold a space” for my clients who are in the midst of personal transitions that are affecting their mood and behavior. Often times, individuals are seeking security, acceptance and validation to delve into their innermost thoughts and feelings in an attempt to understand the "how and why" of particular circumstances. Our emotional wounds have a story to tell, lessons to convey. Therapy provides an opportunity to "hear, feel and see" our experiences in a way that guides us to discover meaning, purpose and ways to integrate the insights gained.
I utilize my skills and training to guide individuals towards recognizing root causes of depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma symptoms.
One thing that I feel most accomplished about is being able to effectively “hold a space” for my clients who are in the midst of personal transitions that are affecting their mood and behavior. Often times, individuals are seeking security, acceptance and validation to delve into their innermost thoughts and feelings in an attempt to understand the "how and why" of particular circumstances. Our emotional wounds have a story to tell, lessons to convey. Therapy provides an opportunity to "hear, feel and see" our experiences in a way that guides us to discover meaning, purpose and ways to integrate the insights gained.
(855) 862-2392 View (855) 862-2392
Photo of Avé Maria Renard, PsyD, MSN, Psychologist
Avé Maria Renard
Psychologist, PsyD, MSN
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Our Plan of Healing guides us to confront subconscious limiting beliefs, and unrecognized trauma- anxiety, depression and grief embedded in your gut.
You are a Professional who wants help: to shut down the Inner Critic; to stop feeling out of control; to stop people pleasing and perfectionism. Yes, to reconnect with partner and friends. Yes to Self Care. No to burnout. Yes to healthy boundaries. Together, we bring curiosity and compassion to your sense of a responsibility that compels overdrive. Our work is collaborate. It is Intentional. The psychotherapy process may at times feel intense. Yet, step-by-step, we gradually dial down overwhelm, prioritize Self Discovery and Self Care. I assist and support you to cultivate a more emotionally resourced and affirming Authentic Self.
Our Plan of Healing guides us to confront subconscious limiting beliefs, and unrecognized trauma- anxiety, depression and grief embedded in your gut.
You are a Professional who wants help: to shut down the Inner Critic; to stop feeling out of control; to stop people pleasing and perfectionism. Yes, to reconnect with partner and friends. Yes to Self Care. No to burnout. Yes to healthy boundaries. Together, we bring curiosity and compassion to your sense of a responsibility that compels overdrive. Our work is collaborate. It is Intentional. The psychotherapy process may at times feel intense. Yet, step-by-step, we gradually dial down overwhelm, prioritize Self Discovery and Self Care. I assist and support you to cultivate a more emotionally resourced and affirming Authentic Self.
(202) 998-6411 View (202) 998-6411
Photo of Ariel VanDoren, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ariel VanDoren
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I specialize in working with survivors of trauma, grief and loss, in addition to relationship and family of origin issues.
Therapy is a choice that may allow for insight, personal awareness and change. Therapy allows you to increase self-awareness so that you can be accountable for you thoughts, feelings, and actions and learn to avoid triggering situations, unhelpful patterns of behavior and overcome challenges you are facing. I firmly believe in a person's potential for growth by integrating aspects of their past into the present in an effort to heal. As you learn to externalize parts of your self, it is my hope that you become more comfortable with vulnerability and present in your daily life.
I specialize in working with survivors of trauma, grief and loss, in addition to relationship and family of origin issues.
Therapy is a choice that may allow for insight, personal awareness and change. Therapy allows you to increase self-awareness so that you can be accountable for you thoughts, feelings, and actions and learn to avoid triggering situations, unhelpful patterns of behavior and overcome challenges you are facing. I firmly believe in a person's potential for growth by integrating aspects of their past into the present in an effort to heal. As you learn to externalize parts of your self, it is my hope that you become more comfortable with vulnerability and present in your daily life.
(202) 471-1507 View (202) 471-1507
Photo of Melissa Sellevaag, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Sellevaag
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
I have over 20 years of experience in working with adults and families navigating transition and change, including grief.
I believe in the capacity of individuals and communities to heal and grow. Through the development of a trusted and collaborative relationship we can identify a path through challenging times and forward. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating change and life transition, either expected or unexpected. I have the capacity to witness and support as you uncover your tools to live fully in the present. As the expert in your own life, you are a collaborative partner in the therapy process to enable continued growth after therapy ends.
I have over 20 years of experience in working with adults and families navigating transition and change, including grief.
I believe in the capacity of individuals and communities to heal and grow. Through the development of a trusted and collaborative relationship we can identify a path through challenging times and forward. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating change and life transition, either expected or unexpected. I have the capacity to witness and support as you uncover your tools to live fully in the present. As the expert in your own life, you are a collaborative partner in the therapy process to enable continued growth after therapy ends.
(855) 729-9711 View (855) 729-9711
Photo of Elizabeth Crunk, PhD, NCC, LGPC, Counselor
Elizabeth Crunk
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I have experience supporting clients through diverse aspects of grief and loss, from “common” grief to complications in grieving and anticipatory grief, as well as relationship loss, pet loss, family estrangement, and life transitions.
I help adults navigate the challenging experience of coping with grief. Loss is often highly distressing and there is not a duration of time that grieving should take. However, we sometimes feel stuck in our grief or desire support. Because grief is a natural response to loss, the goal of our work together is not to "cure" your grief, but to help you find ways to adjust to your loss and cope with the stressors that accompany it. I also work with clients experiencing relationship and family-of-origin concerns and with individuals who would like to live more authentically and develop greater self-compassion and healthier boundaries.
I have experience supporting clients through diverse aspects of grief and loss, from “common” grief to complications in grieving and anticipatory grief, as well as relationship loss, pet loss, family estrangement, and life transitions.
I help adults navigate the challenging experience of coping with grief. Loss is often highly distressing and there is not a duration of time that grieving should take. However, we sometimes feel stuck in our grief or desire support. Because grief is a natural response to loss, the goal of our work together is not to "cure" your grief, but to help you find ways to adjust to your loss and cope with the stressors that accompany it. I also work with clients experiencing relationship and family-of-origin concerns and with individuals who would like to live more authentically and develop greater self-compassion and healthier boundaries.
(240) 702-2393 View (240) 702-2393
Photo of Madeleine Lawrence, LGPC, Counselor
Madeleine Lawrence
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am a board-certified, Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor specializing in emerging adulthood, life transitions, grief and loss, sexuality, and anxiety. I utilize a psychodynamic, integrative approach to help clients understand their past and its impact on the present day, integrating client-centered tools and insights. In session, I like to lead with an attachment-informed perspective to help clients understand how relationships impact our mental wellness, and serve as the foundation towards our greater healing.
Hello! I am a board-certified, Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor specializing in emerging adulthood, life transitions, grief and loss, sexuality, and anxiety. I utilize a psychodynamic, integrative approach to help clients understand their past and its impact on the present day, integrating client-centered tools and insights. In session, I like to lead with an attachment-informed perspective to help clients understand how relationships impact our mental wellness, and serve as the foundation towards our greater healing.
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Photo of Heather L. Gary, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather L. Gary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I have several years of specialized experience in grief/ loss, trauma, and life/role transition issues.
Unexpected challenges, loss, or the simple momentum of life can sometimes make it hard to feel solid or know how to respond. Inner distress or outward behaviors can make it difficult to feel good about oneself or get along with others. At these times, one can benefit greatly from the support of a trained therapist to explore experiences, feelings, and concerns. I create a confidential supportive space where clients have the opportunity to draw upon their inner strengths and capacity to grow, discover new perspectives, tools, and options for behavior, and develop as individuals to improve their quality of life.
I have several years of specialized experience in grief/ loss, trauma, and life/role transition issues.
Unexpected challenges, loss, or the simple momentum of life can sometimes make it hard to feel solid or know how to respond. Inner distress or outward behaviors can make it difficult to feel good about oneself or get along with others. At these times, one can benefit greatly from the support of a trained therapist to explore experiences, feelings, and concerns. I create a confidential supportive space where clients have the opportunity to draw upon their inner strengths and capacity to grow, discover new perspectives, tools, and options for behavior, and develop as individuals to improve their quality of life.
(202) 760-2746 View (202) 760-2746
Photo of Sara Moore Kerai, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Moore Kerai
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20017
My specialties are counseling individuals who have cancer and/or who are grieving a significant loss, supporting family caregivers taking care of sick loved ones, & counseling healthcare workers.
If you are in the midst of a daunting medical diagnosis or grieving a painful loss, I am glad you found my page. Perhaps you are caring for a loved one, and find yourself mentally and physically exhausted, or you're a healthcare professional and you're feeling overwhelmed. Or maybe you are about to embark on treatment for cancer and are struggling with a tangled ball of emotions. In my work with clients, I create a safe, compassionate space to unpack and explore these issues, and to be a companion on your journey toward healing, growth, and transformation. Whatever brought you here today: I am here to listen.
My specialties are counseling individuals who have cancer and/or who are grieving a significant loss, supporting family caregivers taking care of sick loved ones, & counseling healthcare workers.
If you are in the midst of a daunting medical diagnosis or grieving a painful loss, I am glad you found my page. Perhaps you are caring for a loved one, and find yourself mentally and physically exhausted, or you're a healthcare professional and you're feeling overwhelmed. Or maybe you are about to embark on treatment for cancer and are struggling with a tangled ball of emotions. In my work with clients, I create a safe, compassionate space to unpack and explore these issues, and to be a companion on your journey toward healing, growth, and transformation. Whatever brought you here today: I am here to listen.
(202) 517-8251 View (202) 517-8251
Photo of Cheryl Hughes, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Are you ready to re-engage with your life? All of us experience periods of challenge and darkness. Perhaps you've experienced the death of someone close to you. Or perhaps you're facing a life-threatening illness, or anxiety is keeping you stuck in an unsatisfying lifestyle. My goal is to help you find peace and purpose in every possible life transition and challenge. I want to work with you to uncover any negative patterns that may be getting in the way of your best life. Together, we will develop and implement a plan that will allow you to achieve your goals. A rich, full, satisfying life is possible. We can get there together.
Are you ready to re-engage with your life? All of us experience periods of challenge and darkness. Perhaps you've experienced the death of someone close to you. Or perhaps you're facing a life-threatening illness, or anxiety is keeping you stuck in an unsatisfying lifestyle. My goal is to help you find peace and purpose in every possible life transition and challenge. I want to work with you to uncover any negative patterns that may be getting in the way of your best life. Together, we will develop and implement a plan that will allow you to achieve your goals. A rich, full, satisfying life is possible. We can get there together.
(202) 929-0440 View (202) 929-0440
Photo of Laelia Gilborn, LICSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laelia Gilborn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
I also work with children and adolescents to address emotional, social and behavioral issues, as well as family crises like separation/divorce, illness, and grief.
Adult clients come to me when feeling stuck, anxious or depressed. Others are coping with trauma, loss, relationship issues, parenting struggles, or a major life change. Using a variety of approaches, I help clients gain insight and self-acceptance, to navigate life transitions from a position of strength, to grow in relationships, and to make meaning from loss. Therapy is a wonderful form of self-care. Whether you are in crisis or just feeling stuck, I strive to be an honest, accepting, and active partner in your journey to greater fulfillment.
I also work with children and adolescents to address emotional, social and behavioral issues, as well as family crises like separation/divorce, illness, and grief.
Adult clients come to me when feeling stuck, anxious or depressed. Others are coping with trauma, loss, relationship issues, parenting struggles, or a major life change. Using a variety of approaches, I help clients gain insight and self-acceptance, to navigate life transitions from a position of strength, to grow in relationships, and to make meaning from loss. Therapy is a wonderful form of self-care. Whether you are in crisis or just feeling stuck, I strive to be an honest, accepting, and active partner in your journey to greater fulfillment.
(202) 998-4757 View (202) 998-4757
Photo of Dr. Amber Samuels, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Amber Samuels
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
Whether you are seeking relief from mental health concerns like anxiety or depression, need support navigating life transitions ( grief and loss, heartbreak, a new job) or simply want to explore ways to enhance your overall sense of wellness, I’m committed to working with you to create positive and sustainable change in your life.
I believe that no matter where you’re starting from — transformation is possible. This means that, as your therapist, I recognize that you have unique strengths and needs, so I tailor my approach to your specific circumstances. Research indicates that therapy is most successful when it happens within the context of a strong therapeutic relationship. It’s important to me that I work to build an atmosphere that’s rooted in safety, openness, and mutual respect, in which you feel heard and understood. Within the safety of a therapeutic relationship, I will work with you to develop new ways to cope with life's challenges.
Whether you are seeking relief from mental health concerns like anxiety or depression, need support navigating life transitions ( grief and loss, heartbreak, a new job) or simply want to explore ways to enhance your overall sense of wellness, I’m committed to working with you to create positive and sustainable change in your life.
I believe that no matter where you’re starting from — transformation is possible. This means that, as your therapist, I recognize that you have unique strengths and needs, so I tailor my approach to your specific circumstances. Research indicates that therapy is most successful when it happens within the context of a strong therapeutic relationship. It’s important to me that I work to build an atmosphere that’s rooted in safety, openness, and mutual respect, in which you feel heard and understood. Within the safety of a therapeutic relationship, I will work with you to develop new ways to cope with life's challenges.
(202) 980-1178 View (202) 980-1178
Photo of Regina Tosca, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Regina Tosca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011
I specialize in helping clients with grief and loss, trauma -- including trauma from medical treatment -- anxiety and depression.
Do your emotions feel overwhelming? Are you bored and restless with your life? Does the future seem hopeless? Many of us experience these feelings, yet often think we're the only ones. We worry that if we show people what’s really going on, they will avoid and judge us. In therapy, we give voice to these feelings, and learn that while they can be scary at times, they also reveal a path to healing and change.
I specialize in helping clients with grief and loss, trauma -- including trauma from medical treatment -- anxiety and depression.
Do your emotions feel overwhelming? Are you bored and restless with your life? Does the future seem hopeless? Many of us experience these feelings, yet often think we're the only ones. We worry that if we show people what’s really going on, they will avoid and judge us. In therapy, we give voice to these feelings, and learn that while they can be scary at times, they also reveal a path to healing and change.
(202) 839-8736 View (202) 839-8736
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Grief Therapists

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.