Grief Therapists in 22201

Photo of Christina R. Phelps, MS, QMHP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christina R. Phelps
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
I have a lot of experience with trauma-focused treatment, behavioral approaches, and managing grief.
Do you find yourself feeling lost, overwhelmed, or stuck? Are you experiencing anxiety, grief, sadness, loneliness, or other difficult, overwhelming emotions? Have you experienced trauma? You do not have to struggle alone. In working with clients, I use an integrative approach to help adolescents and adults develop coping skills and improve their mental health while both identifying and accomplishing their goals. I particularly enjoy working with the LGBQ+ and trans and disabled communities. I believe that anyone can truly thrive with the proper support, understanding, and resources throughout the therapeutic journey.
I have a lot of experience with trauma-focused treatment, behavioral approaches, and managing grief.
Do you find yourself feeling lost, overwhelmed, or stuck? Are you experiencing anxiety, grief, sadness, loneliness, or other difficult, overwhelming emotions? Have you experienced trauma? You do not have to struggle alone. In working with clients, I use an integrative approach to help adolescents and adults develop coping skills and improve their mental health while both identifying and accomplishing their goals. I particularly enjoy working with the LGBQ+ and trans and disabled communities. I believe that anyone can truly thrive with the proper support, understanding, and resources throughout the therapeutic journey.
(571) 600-6968 x902 View (571) 600-6968 x902
Photo of Theresa Reed, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Theresa Reed
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201
I provide therapy for children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, divorce, low self-esteem, trauma, and relationship/adjustment difficulties.
"Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful part of us." Therapy allows one to explore their inner thoughts and feelings and is a tool for building self-esteem. My therapeutic approach incorporates an empathic, honest, exploratory, and integrative style in order to provide a comfortable and safe environment. In my work with children, I incorporate play therapy techniques, as I am a firm believer that play is a child's language and toys are their words.
I provide therapy for children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, divorce, low self-esteem, trauma, and relationship/adjustment difficulties.
"Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful part of us." Therapy allows one to explore their inner thoughts and feelings and is a tool for building self-esteem. My therapeutic approach incorporates an empathic, honest, exploratory, and integrative style in order to provide a comfortable and safe environment. In my work with children, I incorporate play therapy techniques, as I am a firm believer that play is a child's language and toys are their words.
(571) 206-3705 View (571) 206-3705
Photo of Olga Haines, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Olga Haines
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
I provide my clients with a safe, judgement-free environment so they feel supported from the first point of contact throughout the entire therapeutic relationship. I value individual differences in each of my clients and provide space for them to be who they are. I strongly believe that being unedited and open with oneself is essential for understanding the sources of struggles and what makes us feel stuck. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety related difficulties, relationship issues, grief and loss, trauma, life transitions. I work with adults and adolescents.
I provide my clients with a safe, judgement-free environment so they feel supported from the first point of contact throughout the entire therapeutic relationship. I value individual differences in each of my clients and provide space for them to be who they are. I strongly believe that being unedited and open with oneself is essential for understanding the sources of struggles and what makes us feel stuck. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety related difficulties, relationship issues, grief and loss, trauma, life transitions. I work with adults and adolescents.
(571) 500-8952 View (571) 500-8952
Photo of Ellen McCarter - Postpartum Wellness, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Postpartum Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
I am Ellen McCarter and I provide telehealth counseling throughout Virginia and Florida to individuals, couples, and families who are facing loss, illness, grief, and trauma during or after pregnancy. Common themes that I address in my work include anxiety, grief, depression, caregiving burnout, fertility challenges, subsequent pregnancies after loss/trauma, and couples/relationship issues. I am passionate about supporting clients in various stages of pregnancy and the postpartum period. I am available for online virtual appointments.
I am Ellen McCarter and I provide telehealth counseling throughout Virginia and Florida to individuals, couples, and families who are facing loss, illness, grief, and trauma during or after pregnancy. Common themes that I address in my work include anxiety, grief, depression, caregiving burnout, fertility challenges, subsequent pregnancies after loss/trauma, and couples/relationship issues. I am passionate about supporting clients in various stages of pregnancy and the postpartum period. I am available for online virtual appointments.
(727) 361-2454 View (727) 361-2454
Photo of Lori Bristow, PhD, Psychologist
Lori Bristow
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals and couples who are experiencing life challenges including: relationship difficulties, anxiety or fears, rebuilding trust, loss or grief, family difficulties, sexual orientation questions, recovery from abuse or neglect, and challenges that come from navigating various transitions and changes in life.
As there are many therapists to choose from, your task in finding a therapist can be challenging for various reasons. I hope by reading more about me, you will have a better sense of how I may be able to help you. I believe that successful therapy depends upon your sense of comfort and emotional safety, as well as the connection we establish in the therapeutic relationship.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples who are experiencing life challenges including: relationship difficulties, anxiety or fears, rebuilding trust, loss or grief, family difficulties, sexual orientation questions, recovery from abuse or neglect, and challenges that come from navigating various transitions and changes in life.
As there are many therapists to choose from, your task in finding a therapist can be challenging for various reasons. I hope by reading more about me, you will have a better sense of how I may be able to help you. I believe that successful therapy depends upon your sense of comfort and emotional safety, as well as the connection we establish in the therapeutic relationship.
(703) 468-0107 View (703) 468-0107
Photo of Katy Cribbs, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katy Cribbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults facing loss, illness, coping with caregiving for an elder or a new child, new parents, and those coping with depression, anxiety, and other symptoms arising from life transitions.
We all carry wounds which affect our inner well-being, our relationships, and our ability to engage with the world. By facing our pain and suffering with compassion, we have the power to transform it into strength. Often, we cannot do this alone. Therapy is a journeying together to discover your own capacity for resilience and strength and healing into your deeper, truer self. I cultivate therapeutic relationships built on deep trust and incorporate mindfulness, narrative awareness, strengths-based insight building, and cognitive restructuring, focusing from a spiritual perspective on what gives meaning, purpose, and connection.
I specialize in working with adults facing loss, illness, coping with caregiving for an elder or a new child, new parents, and those coping with depression, anxiety, and other symptoms arising from life transitions.
We all carry wounds which affect our inner well-being, our relationships, and our ability to engage with the world. By facing our pain and suffering with compassion, we have the power to transform it into strength. Often, we cannot do this alone. Therapy is a journeying together to discover your own capacity for resilience and strength and healing into your deeper, truer self. I cultivate therapeutic relationships built on deep trust and incorporate mindfulness, narrative awareness, strengths-based insight building, and cognitive restructuring, focusing from a spiritual perspective on what gives meaning, purpose, and connection.
(202) 759-3997 View (202) 759-3997
Photo of Jonathan Kirkendall, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jonathan Kirkendall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201
Whether you're a young professional starting out or an older adult, facing a loss, a traumatic event, or a period of uncertainty can be chaotic.
I'm a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience helping individuals in DC navigate grief, depression, anxiety, and trauma. Using a blend of techniques with a strong emphasis on mindfulness to foster self-compassion and emotional well-being, I genuinely love helping clients build a lifestyle that promotes a life of mental well-being. I also has a deep understanding of military families and veterans, having served them for 12 years. I have a warm and conversational approach, which creates a safe space for healing. In-person (Dupont) and telehealth sessions available.
Whether you're a young professional starting out or an older adult, facing a loss, a traumatic event, or a period of uncertainty can be chaotic.
I'm a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience helping individuals in DC navigate grief, depression, anxiety, and trauma. Using a blend of techniques with a strong emphasis on mindfulness to foster self-compassion and emotional well-being, I genuinely love helping clients build a lifestyle that promotes a life of mental well-being. I also has a deep understanding of military families and veterans, having served them for 12 years. I have a warm and conversational approach, which creates a safe space for healing. In-person (Dupont) and telehealth sessions available.
(202) 250-3744 View (202) 250-3744
Photo of Dorothy Ann Wine, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dorothy Ann Wine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201
I also work with those grieving, through divorce, and death of a loved one.
I'm here to listen and to care, there is hope and help. I don't want you to feel this way one more day. Where there is lack of understanding, let's find meaning.I stand ready to support you on your jouney to flourish! I've successfully helped couples rediscover their loving relationship. Yes. It’s possible. Let’s work to build satisfying relationships. To understand and dentifythe triggers that lead to anxiety and depression. While planning supports your strengths. It would be a privilege to assist you on this journey. Together we can plan strategies to move forward to positive change.
I also work with those grieving, through divorce, and death of a loved one.
I'm here to listen and to care, there is hope and help. I don't want you to feel this way one more day. Where there is lack of understanding, let's find meaning.I stand ready to support you on your jouney to flourish! I've successfully helped couples rediscover their loving relationship. Yes. It’s possible. Let’s work to build satisfying relationships. To understand and dentifythe triggers that lead to anxiety and depression. While planning supports your strengths. It would be a privilege to assist you on this journey. Together we can plan strategies to move forward to positive change.
(571) 248-3358 View (571) 248-3358
Photo of Sharon Fischman, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Fischman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
Life can be overwhelming. Whether it is interpersonal challenges, trauma, grief, or learning why we make ineffective choices, therapy can help. I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in managing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors effectively. I work from a non-judgmental, collaborative, and strengths-based perspective. I believe you are doing the best you can at this moment; I will help you build towards making changes in your life to reach your goals.
Life can be overwhelming. Whether it is interpersonal challenges, trauma, grief, or learning why we make ineffective choices, therapy can help. I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in managing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors effectively. I work from a non-judgmental, collaborative, and strengths-based perspective. I believe you are doing the best you can at this moment; I will help you build towards making changes in your life to reach your goals.
(240) 201-2398 View (240) 201-2398
Photo of Aida Sanchez - Gentle Grief LLC, MA, LPMT, MT-BC, A-GRMS
Gentle Grief LLC
MA, LPMT, MT-BC, A-GRMS
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
I have 8 years of experience working with Hospice, Death, Dying and Life Transitions.
If you've experienced loss in your life, I am here for you. At Gentle Grief, you will be receiving a compassionate, non-judgemental listening ear, complete confidentiality, and a companion to walk this journey alongside you. When grief hits us, the world keeps moving and we can feel like we are stuck in time. Are you having trouble getting up in the mornings? Do you experience difficulty meeting your basic needs? Some of the issues I support individuals with: death of a loved one, terminal illness/diagnosis, life transitioning, supporting parents with grieving children, self worth, severed relationships, and others.
I have 8 years of experience working with Hospice, Death, Dying and Life Transitions.
If you've experienced loss in your life, I am here for you. At Gentle Grief, you will be receiving a compassionate, non-judgemental listening ear, complete confidentiality, and a companion to walk this journey alongside you. When grief hits us, the world keeps moving and we can feel like we are stuck in time. Are you having trouble getting up in the mornings? Do you experience difficulty meeting your basic needs? Some of the issues I support individuals with: death of a loved one, terminal illness/diagnosis, life transitioning, supporting parents with grieving children, self worth, severed relationships, and others.
(301) 298-8577 View (301) 298-8577
Photo of Hela Baer, LCSW, E-RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hela Baer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, E-RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
Hello! I'm an integrative therapist and am passionate about creating a supportive, authentic, and compassionate space in which individuals can engage in meaningful exploration and healing. I work with teens and adults who have been impacted by trauma and loss, and are experiencing challenges relating to: persistent anxiety and depression; chronic stress and burnout; intercultural relationships and experiences; identity development and exploration; and the cultural, intergenerational, and sociopolitical factors that impact our daily lives.
Hello! I'm an integrative therapist and am passionate about creating a supportive, authentic, and compassionate space in which individuals can engage in meaningful exploration and healing. I work with teens and adults who have been impacted by trauma and loss, and are experiencing challenges relating to: persistent anxiety and depression; chronic stress and burnout; intercultural relationships and experiences; identity development and exploration; and the cultural, intergenerational, and sociopolitical factors that impact our daily lives.
(703) 643-4730 View (703) 643-4730
Photo of Shaina Anderson, MSW
Shaina Anderson
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
Shaina received her Master’s in Social Work from Howard University and is currently working towards LCSW Licensure. Shaina also has an MS degree in Sociology with a concentration in Criminal Justice from Longwood University. She has experience working with a variety of individuals, including children, adolescents, and families. She brings her passion and empathy for working with people to provide an outlet for healing and work through difficult times. Shaina also has experience working with individuals and families through traumatic and stressful experiences such as grief, depression, anxiety, addiction, and incarceration.
Shaina received her Master’s in Social Work from Howard University and is currently working towards LCSW Licensure. Shaina also has an MS degree in Sociology with a concentration in Criminal Justice from Longwood University. She has experience working with a variety of individuals, including children, adolescents, and families. She brings her passion and empathy for working with people to provide an outlet for healing and work through difficult times. Shaina also has experience working with individuals and families through traumatic and stressful experiences such as grief, depression, anxiety, addiction, and incarceration.
(571) 946-2519 View (571) 946-2519
Photo of Arielle Mesa, LICSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arielle Mesa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, RYT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
Life often places obstacles on our path, which can leave us feeling stuck, in pain, uncertain of how to move forward. I specialize in guiding those who arrive here by creating a nurturing and curious space to help you explore, unearth, and effectively heal untended internal wounds. My passion and expertise lie in supporting people in healing from childhood abuse and neglect, sexual violence, complex loss, and ancestral and identity-based trauma. Many also turn to me to better understand with who they truly are, their roles within relationships, and their unique purpose, or to prepare for and integrate psychedelic healing journeys.
Life often places obstacles on our path, which can leave us feeling stuck, in pain, uncertain of how to move forward. I specialize in guiding those who arrive here by creating a nurturing and curious space to help you explore, unearth, and effectively heal untended internal wounds. My passion and expertise lie in supporting people in healing from childhood abuse and neglect, sexual violence, complex loss, and ancestral and identity-based trauma. Many also turn to me to better understand with who they truly are, their roles within relationships, and their unique purpose, or to prepare for and integrate psychedelic healing journeys.
(202) 759-2290 View (202) 759-2290
Photo of Jordan Neel, MA, NCC
Jordan Neel
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201
I can help you process and explore your unique experience with grief, whether the loss is from death, the end of a relationship, or anticipatory grief.
Let's just get to it. I am here to offer compassion, support, and assistance in navigating issues such as grief/ loss, major life transitions, attachment/relationship difficulties, and complex or acute trauma. I prioritize my relationship with you as a client first and foremost, as it is impossible to facilitate healing in an environment that doesn't feel inviting and safe. I inject plenty of humor into our work (when appropriate), and I can also roll up my sleeves and get down to the nitty gritty. In every instance, I strive to provide a warm, secure, and judgement free space for us to work towards your therapeutic goals.
I can help you process and explore your unique experience with grief, whether the loss is from death, the end of a relationship, or anticipatory grief.
Let's just get to it. I am here to offer compassion, support, and assistance in navigating issues such as grief/ loss, major life transitions, attachment/relationship difficulties, and complex or acute trauma. I prioritize my relationship with you as a client first and foremost, as it is impossible to facilitate healing in an environment that doesn't feel inviting and safe. I inject plenty of humor into our work (when appropriate), and I can also roll up my sleeves and get down to the nitty gritty. In every instance, I strive to provide a warm, secure, and judgement free space for us to work towards your therapeutic goals.
(571) 946-6270 View (571) 946-6270
Photo of Heidi Elliot, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heidi Elliot
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
I specialize in grief and loss, including infertility and divorce, trauma, depression and loneliness, relationship and family issues.
Life doesn’t often go according to our plans. Unmet needs and expectations can leave deep and invisible scars. That doesn’t mean you’re broken, it means you’re human. I work with individuals to increase self-acceptance and self-awareness, build empathy, and improve the quality of their relationships. My hope is to support your journey to express, explore, and discover who you are and who you want to be.
I specialize in grief and loss, including infertility and divorce, trauma, depression and loneliness, relationship and family issues.
Life doesn’t often go according to our plans. Unmet needs and expectations can leave deep and invisible scars. That doesn’t mean you’re broken, it means you’re human. I work with individuals to increase self-acceptance and self-awareness, build empathy, and improve the quality of their relationships. My hope is to support your journey to express, explore, and discover who you are and who you want to be.
(571) 366-7694 View (571) 366-7694
Photo of Rachel Klebanov, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Klebanov
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
Hello! Welcome to my practice, Intuitive Body Counseling and Healing, LLC. I am trained in Internal Family Systems, with experience in areas of identity exploration, grief, relational trauma, body-image concerns, sexual health and wellness, and perinatal mental health. I provide therapy for individuals of any racial and cultural backgrounds and abilities. My goal is to promote insight and awareness by helping clients learn tools for self-regulation and ultimately self-intimacy. I work best with clients who feel overwhelmed or stuck, but desire more ease and life-satisfaction. This is a space for you to get to know yourself!
Hello! Welcome to my practice, Intuitive Body Counseling and Healing, LLC. I am trained in Internal Family Systems, with experience in areas of identity exploration, grief, relational trauma, body-image concerns, sexual health and wellness, and perinatal mental health. I provide therapy for individuals of any racial and cultural backgrounds and abilities. My goal is to promote insight and awareness by helping clients learn tools for self-regulation and ultimately self-intimacy. I work best with clients who feel overwhelmed or stuck, but desire more ease and life-satisfaction. This is a space for you to get to know yourself!
(844) 940-4168 View (844) 940-4168
Photo of Rachel Walls, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Walls
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
Waitlist for new clients
Are you a social worker in VA looking for clinical supervision? I am a board approved supervisor and would love to help supervise those pursuing work with a focus on grief, loss, and trauma.
I pursued this work because I know what it is like to be knocked off course. Over the years, I have found that assisting people heal from trauma is what I am meant to do. I focus on empowering my clients through education, proven therapies, and allowing my clients to lead their treatment. You are the expert on your own experience! I'm here to safely offer you an alternate path to your goals. You are experiencing a normal reaction to something that is abnormal. Trauma and grief are heavy - you don't have to carry it alone and it does not have to be a part of your identity.
Are you a social worker in VA looking for clinical supervision? I am a board approved supervisor and would love to help supervise those pursuing work with a focus on grief, loss, and trauma.
I pursued this work because I know what it is like to be knocked off course. Over the years, I have found that assisting people heal from trauma is what I am meant to do. I focus on empowering my clients through education, proven therapies, and allowing my clients to lead their treatment. You are the expert on your own experience! I'm here to safely offer you an alternate path to your goals. You are experiencing a normal reaction to something that is abnormal. Trauma and grief are heavy - you don't have to carry it alone and it does not have to be a part of your identity.
(804) 601-6810 View (804) 601-6810
Photo of Mary Unverferth, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Unverferth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
Therapy works best when you’re feeling understood. By processing and understanding the events of your life and your reaction to them, we will identify healthy coping strategies to manage stress and strong emotions. Have you experienced a loss that feels overwhelming? Feeling “stuck” or alone in your grief? Together, we can work to help you feel better. Our lives and problems can be more deeply understood through a structured reflection of the past. I use a mix of psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) to help people notice and be curious about their feelings, thoughts, behaviors.
Therapy works best when you’re feeling understood. By processing and understanding the events of your life and your reaction to them, we will identify healthy coping strategies to manage stress and strong emotions. Have you experienced a loss that feels overwhelming? Feeling “stuck” or alone in your grief? Together, we can work to help you feel better. Our lives and problems can be more deeply understood through a structured reflection of the past. I use a mix of psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) to help people notice and be curious about their feelings, thoughts, behaviors.
(202) 951-8472 View (202) 951-8472
Photo of Serena Anand-Bruttig, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Serena Anand-Bruttig
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
Focus areas in my practice include grief and loss, relational and acute trauma, identity development and conflicts, relationship challenges, anxiety, and depression.
You may be seeking therapy to process, cope with, or make sense of a challenging life transition. Perhaps you are looking for a space to reflect on past and current relationships, and to better understand yourself and others. Maybe something just feels "off," and you can't quite put a finger on what it is. In therapy, we will work together to put down what is heavy, unpack what has been bottled up, and explore possibilities that may offer you change or relief.
Focus areas in my practice include grief and loss, relational and acute trauma, identity development and conflicts, relationship challenges, anxiety, and depression.
You may be seeking therapy to process, cope with, or make sense of a challenging life transition. Perhaps you are looking for a space to reflect on past and current relationships, and to better understand yourself and others. Maybe something just feels "off," and you can't quite put a finger on what it is. In therapy, we will work together to put down what is heavy, unpack what has been bottled up, and explore possibilities that may offer you change or relief.
(703) 936-7102 x701 View (703) 936-7102 x701
Photo of Thomas V Parinello, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Thomas V Parinello
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and adjustment issues.
You are unique. The way you experience and process the world around you is a reflection of your individuality. As such, my approach is tailored to suit the specific needs of the individuals I work with. I believe that everyone is doing their best, given their life circumstances and acquired coping. You deserve to have a provider meet you where you are in life, to be heard and feel understood. In my practice, I don’t just offer therapy; I offer a committed partnership in care with a specialized skill set, expert guidance, and empathetic support.
I have extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and adjustment issues.
You are unique. The way you experience and process the world around you is a reflection of your individuality. As such, my approach is tailored to suit the specific needs of the individuals I work with. I believe that everyone is doing their best, given their life circumstances and acquired coping. You deserve to have a provider meet you where you are in life, to be heard and feel understood. In my practice, I don’t just offer therapy; I offer a committed partnership in care with a specialized skill set, expert guidance, and empathetic support.
(571) 495-2533 View (571) 495-2533
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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.