Grief Therapists in 28031

Photo of Cindy Baubach, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 28031, NC
Cindy Baubach
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
If you suffer from trauma, depression, anxiety, grief/loss and life transitions, feel free to reach out and give me a call. These are areas I have worked with for the past 30 years of my career. It can be challenging to find the "right fit for you" therapist. Healing is possible or I would not be doing what I do. It may take time to feel better. There are no magic wands and if it sounds too good to be true.. it probably is. Therapy can be hard work and also very rewarding.
If you suffer from trauma, depression, anxiety, grief/loss and life transitions, feel free to reach out and give me a call. These are areas I have worked with for the past 30 years of my career. It can be challenging to find the "right fit for you" therapist. Healing is possible or I would not be doing what I do. It may take time to feel better. There are no magic wands and if it sounds too good to be true.. it probably is. Therapy can be hard work and also very rewarding.
(980) 372-3618 View (980) 372-3618
Photo of Allison (Alli) Pongetti, Counselor in 28031, NC
Allison (Alli) Pongetti
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
My passion is working with the unique challenges faced by emerging adults dealing with ADHD, autism, anxiety, grief, and trauma, although I am open to working with adults of all ages. Specializing in emerging adults (16-30), I recognize the pivotal stage of life that this demographic represents, where young individuals are transitioning into adulthood and facing complex emotional and psychological changes. Through a client-centered approach, I foster a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience.
My passion is working with the unique challenges faced by emerging adults dealing with ADHD, autism, anxiety, grief, and trauma, although I am open to working with adults of all ages. Specializing in emerging adults (16-30), I recognize the pivotal stage of life that this demographic represents, where young individuals are transitioning into adulthood and facing complex emotional and psychological changes. Through a client-centered approach, I foster a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience.
(980) 907-6285 View (980) 907-6285
Photo of Maria Leo, Marriage & Family Therapist in 28031, NC
Maria Leo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
When working with clients experiencing anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship/marital issues or any life challenges we may be working on together, I prioritize holding a judgment-free space where clients feel both comfortable and safe.
It is an immense privilege every day to work side by side and collaboratively with my clients assisting them in handling the challenges they are facing in their lives and relationships. I look forward to supporting you as together we will navigate your new path toward much greater satisfaction and peace in your own life or your relationship. Whether you are looking to begin counseling individually, alongside a partner, or with other members of your family, I am here to help you in defining your goals and in identifying the patterns or obstacles that are hindering you from living the life or relationship you want and so deserve.
When working with clients experiencing anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship/marital issues or any life challenges we may be working on together, I prioritize holding a judgment-free space where clients feel both comfortable and safe.
It is an immense privilege every day to work side by side and collaboratively with my clients assisting them in handling the challenges they are facing in their lives and relationships. I look forward to supporting you as together we will navigate your new path toward much greater satisfaction and peace in your own life or your relationship. Whether you are looking to begin counseling individually, alongside a partner, or with other members of your family, I am here to help you in defining your goals and in identifying the patterns or obstacles that are hindering you from living the life or relationship you want and so deserve.
(980) 324-3730 View (980) 324-3730
Photo of Sheri J Moroe in 28031, NC
Sheri J Moroe
MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
I work with grief & loss, trauma, OCD, PTSD, physical assault & porn addictions.
I see counseling as a walk between two people, a time to discuss the ups and downs of life. I am person centered; solution focused and draw from a wide range of CBT mindfulness and Accelerated Resolution Therapy techniques that will help my clients find their own unique path in life. I am open to all ages and stages of life and have a special place in my heart for all military and first responders. As a solution focused therapist, I use counseling techniques that fit your specific needs and goals, I don't believe in a one size fits all therapy. I look forward to meeting you and working towards meeting your needs.
I work with grief & loss, trauma, OCD, PTSD, physical assault & porn addictions.
I see counseling as a walk between two people, a time to discuss the ups and downs of life. I am person centered; solution focused and draw from a wide range of CBT mindfulness and Accelerated Resolution Therapy techniques that will help my clients find their own unique path in life. I am open to all ages and stages of life and have a special place in my heart for all military and first responders. As a solution focused therapist, I use counseling techniques that fit your specific needs and goals, I don't believe in a one size fits all therapy. I look forward to meeting you and working towards meeting your needs.
(980) 294-4463 View (980) 294-4463
Photo of Waves of Calm Counseling & Wellness, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 28031, NC
Waves of Calm Counseling & Wellness, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031  (Online Only)
The pain of grief can be overwhelming and unbearable at times. The loss of a loved one is probably one of the most difficult situations that we will experience in life, especially if you are struggling with symptoms of complicated grief, such as intense feelings of guilt or responsibility, nightmares or disturbing images, or extreme emotional dysregulation that interferes with your daily functioning. Sometimes thoughts, images and emotions have us "stuck" in our grief journey, and we need help working through these issues...
The pain of grief can be overwhelming and unbearable at times. The loss of a loved one is probably one of the most difficult situations that we will experience in life, especially if you are struggling with symptoms of complicated grief, such as intense feelings of guilt or responsibility, nightmares or disturbing images, or extreme emotional dysregulation that interferes with your daily functioning. Sometimes thoughts, images and emotions have us "stuck" in our grief journey, and we need help working through these issues...
(980) 281-9676 View (980) 281-9676
Photo of Kristin Kirk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28031, NC
Kristin Kirk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
(704) 237-0421 View (704) 237-0421
Photo of Kristina (Kristy) Richendollar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28031, NC
Kristina (Kristy) Richendollar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CIMNTT
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
We all face mental and physical challenges, grief, relationship issues, and unexpected changes from time to time. I am here to assist you by treating you as a “whole” person. The mind, body, spirit, and environment influence total personal wellness. When these pieces work in harmony, you can overcome life’s obstacles while becoming the best version of yourself! We will collaborate to customize your wellness road map, so you can continue with your life's journey with purpose and meaning.
We all face mental and physical challenges, grief, relationship issues, and unexpected changes from time to time. I am here to assist you by treating you as a “whole” person. The mind, body, spirit, and environment influence total personal wellness. When these pieces work in harmony, you can overcome life’s obstacles while becoming the best version of yourself! We will collaborate to customize your wellness road map, so you can continue with your life's journey with purpose and meaning.
(980) 295-1427 View (980) 295-1427
Photo of Dr. Wanda P Briggs, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in 28031, NC
Dr. Wanda P Briggs
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
Having experienced inordinate personal loss myself, I’m equipped to walk alongside you through all the unknowns of your loss .
The life you had is gone. And you are alone facing an uncertain future. The storm of suffering has so consumed you, the struggles of everyday living bear no resemblance of who you are. The changes are present everywhere. There’s nowhere to put down this burden of loss and nowhere to escape this pain. There’s just you, alone and unsure how to move forward. Your mind desperately grasps at questions: Will I always feel this way? How long can I stand this? Will I survive?
Having experienced inordinate personal loss myself, I’m equipped to walk alongside you through all the unknowns of your loss .
The life you had is gone. And you are alone facing an uncertain future. The storm of suffering has so consumed you, the struggles of everyday living bear no resemblance of who you are. The changes are present everywhere. There’s nowhere to put down this burden of loss and nowhere to escape this pain. There’s just you, alone and unsure how to move forward. Your mind desperately grasps at questions: Will I always feel this way? How long can I stand this? Will I survive?
(980) 276-2795 View (980) 276-2795
Photo of ThinkWell Therapy Group - Debbie Hancock in 28031, NC
ThinkWell Therapy Group - Debbie Hancock
MS, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
Waitlist for new clients
We specialize in working with adolescents and adults with issues such a as Anxiety, Eating Disorders, Greif & Bereavement, and Life After Diagnosis.
Welcome to ThinkWell Therapy Group. Our goal is to Empower you to make the changes in your life that will allow you to live at your full potential. Working together, you will learn to understand yourself better and identify areas of challenge to work on. It will be hard work, but you are not alone. It's time to take the first step.
We specialize in working with adolescents and adults with issues such a as Anxiety, Eating Disorders, Greif & Bereavement, and Life After Diagnosis.
Welcome to ThinkWell Therapy Group. Our goal is to Empower you to make the changes in your life that will allow you to live at your full potential. Working together, you will learn to understand yourself better and identify areas of challenge to work on. It will be hard work, but you are not alone. It's time to take the first step.
(704) 286-1629 View (704) 286-1629
Photo of Joseph Lee Royalty, Counselor in 28031, NC
Joseph Lee Royalty
Counselor, MAEdS, LCMHCA, LPN
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031  (Online Only)
You deserve to live your best life today! I work with clients facing anxiety, stress, depression, grief, men's issues and ADHD.
Hello! I'm glad you are here! I am pleased to announce that I am accepting new patients and Etna insurance now. The first step in getting mentally healthy is accepting you need help. The next is finding a counselor that listens, understands and is nonjudgmental. I meet people where they are in life. I enjoy the healing process of counseling and the personal growth that occurs when working with clients. Have you been suffering from high amounts of stress, habitual anxiety and depressed moods that result in emotional and physical fatigue? You are not alone, I understand, and I can help!
You deserve to live your best life today! I work with clients facing anxiety, stress, depression, grief, men's issues and ADHD.
Hello! I'm glad you are here! I am pleased to announce that I am accepting new patients and Etna insurance now. The first step in getting mentally healthy is accepting you need help. The next is finding a counselor that listens, understands and is nonjudgmental. I meet people where they are in life. I enjoy the healing process of counseling and the personal growth that occurs when working with clients. Have you been suffering from high amounts of stress, habitual anxiety and depressed moods that result in emotional and physical fatigue? You are not alone, I understand, and I can help!
(704) 396-5760 View (704) 396-5760
Photo of Samantha King, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 28031, NC
Samantha King
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
Waitlist for new clients
I offer therapeutic wellness interventions through a trauma informed/ trauma focused lens. I enjoy working with pre-teens and adolescents (age 12-18) and young adults through age 65 who are seeking support and facilitation in their healing and growth toward "self- actualizing" potential. I am most helpful for clients who are willing to be active participants and personally responsible for their growth process inherent to experiencing wellness. Together we approach treatment goals to overcome or manage life issues stemming from problems with trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, behaviors and emotions, grief, and relationships.
I offer therapeutic wellness interventions through a trauma informed/ trauma focused lens. I enjoy working with pre-teens and adolescents (age 12-18) and young adults through age 65 who are seeking support and facilitation in their healing and growth toward "self- actualizing" potential. I am most helpful for clients who are willing to be active participants and personally responsible for their growth process inherent to experiencing wellness. Together we approach treatment goals to overcome or manage life issues stemming from problems with trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, behaviors and emotions, grief, and relationships.
(704) 666-4851 View (704) 666-4851
Photo of Bernard Shalvey, Counselor in 28031, NC
Bernard Shalvey
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
It's possible that you're unsure exactly what you would like to address in counseling, that's not a problem, we can explore this question in session and find achievable goals together. Any client struggling with the following issues will likely benefit from my counseling services: anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, autonomy, emotions, purpose, relationships, shame, grief, hopelessness, boundaries, communication, loneliness, spirituality and more.
It's possible that you're unsure exactly what you would like to address in counseling, that's not a problem, we can explore this question in session and find achievable goals together. Any client struggling with the following issues will likely benefit from my counseling services: anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, autonomy, emotions, purpose, relationships, shame, grief, hopelessness, boundaries, communication, loneliness, spirituality and more.
(704) 736-3417 View (704) 736-3417
Photo of Rebecca Parnell, Psychologist in 28031, NC
Rebecca Parnell
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
When added stressors occur, like the death of a loved one, changing family structure or job instability, it becomes increasingly difficult to keep those struggles at bay and the old “something’s gotta give” adage becomes true.
From the outside looking in, people see someone who “has it together.” Perhaps this is related to your family, job, marriage or community. From the inside looking out, you see a world full of pressures, expectations and a need to cultivate happiness for those in your life, sometimes at the expense of your own sanity. I often hear from clients that they feel “stuck” in the same cycle of life and can’t seem to find satisfaction, despite having many of life’s “checkboxes” marked off. Experiences of chronic anxiety and worry are common though they keep moving through the motions of life.
When added stressors occur, like the death of a loved one, changing family structure or job instability, it becomes increasingly difficult to keep those struggles at bay and the old “something’s gotta give” adage becomes true.
From the outside looking in, people see someone who “has it together.” Perhaps this is related to your family, job, marriage or community. From the inside looking out, you see a world full of pressures, expectations and a need to cultivate happiness for those in your life, sometimes at the expense of your own sanity. I often hear from clients that they feel “stuck” in the same cycle of life and can’t seem to find satisfaction, despite having many of life’s “checkboxes” marked off. Experiences of chronic anxiety and worry are common though they keep moving through the motions of life.
(704) 457-7938 View (704) 457-7938
Photo of Lisa Firullo in 28031, NC
Lisa Firullo
MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031  (Online Only)
I understand the challenges with stress, anxiety, lack of support, grief/sadness and overwhelm.
If you feel overwhelmed, can't shut your brain off and worry about many things, I understand. I have a passion for supporting people with anxiety, depression, and navigating daily life stressors and challenges. I support people to navigate big transitions and create the life they want. I believe our thinking pattern, and the way we interpret the world, influence behaviors and can keep us in our current state. By adjusting these patterns we can begin to change the outcome. I work with people to build confidence, self-compassion and self-esteem, to move from stuck to thriving, heal, and live with more joy.
I understand the challenges with stress, anxiety, lack of support, grief/sadness and overwhelm.
If you feel overwhelmed, can't shut your brain off and worry about many things, I understand. I have a passion for supporting people with anxiety, depression, and navigating daily life stressors and challenges. I support people to navigate big transitions and create the life they want. I believe our thinking pattern, and the way we interpret the world, influence behaviors and can keep us in our current state. By adjusting these patterns we can begin to change the outcome. I work with people to build confidence, self-compassion and self-esteem, to move from stuck to thriving, heal, and live with more joy.
(704) 266-6328 View (704) 266-6328
Photo of Molly Hurst, Counselor in 28031, NC
Molly Hurst
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
It is an immense privilege to walk side by side with my clients as they take their courageous journey to their best lives. I provide treatment to couples, teens & adults providing both individual and couples/marital therapy. I have a passion for relationship work with couples and relationship systems from a variety of backgrounds, as well as my work with teens. I provide treatment from a multi-cultural perspective for issues/concerns including but not limited to relational issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, general stressors, life transitions, identity stress, sex and sexuality, self-esteem, behavioral issues & grief/bereavement.
It is an immense privilege to walk side by side with my clients as they take their courageous journey to their best lives. I provide treatment to couples, teens & adults providing both individual and couples/marital therapy. I have a passion for relationship work with couples and relationship systems from a variety of backgrounds, as well as my work with teens. I provide treatment from a multi-cultural perspective for issues/concerns including but not limited to relational issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, general stressors, life transitions, identity stress, sex and sexuality, self-esteem, behavioral issues & grief/bereavement.
(980) 324-2992 View (980) 324-2992
Photo of Christopher C. Marelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28031, NC
Christopher C. Marelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, VSP, DAAETS
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone has a story, and I want to listen to yours. Encouraging hope, helping a person see their worth, and teaching them how to advocate for themselves drives my practice as a therapist. I will meet you where you are and help you reach your goals on your journey to finding hope, healing, and meaning in your life. I provide advocacy, care, and support for those seeking self-improvement, enduring crises and life's challenges, and those suffering from family and relationship conflict, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief and loss, OCD, PTSD, complex trauma, panic, interpersonal violence, and work or school-related stressors.
Everyone has a story, and I want to listen to yours. Encouraging hope, helping a person see their worth, and teaching them how to advocate for themselves drives my practice as a therapist. I will meet you where you are and help you reach your goals on your journey to finding hope, healing, and meaning in your life. I provide advocacy, care, and support for those seeking self-improvement, enduring crises and life's challenges, and those suffering from family and relationship conflict, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief and loss, OCD, PTSD, complex trauma, panic, interpersonal violence, and work or school-related stressors.
(828) 439-0566 View (828) 439-0566
Photo of Sage Healing and Wellness.com, Counselor in 28031, NC
Sage Healing and Wellness.com
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
For individuals, I specialize in trauma and abuse recovery, depression/anxiety, grief, and building healthy boundaries.
I am in the business of healing, not learning the latest coping skills that "pop psychology" uses as bandages. I am a customer service driven clinician who puts my clients first. Your experience in therapy will be a safe place for your uniqueness without feeling odd or misunderstood. Spiritual formation has been apart of my individual growth therefore I weave it into my therapy in addition to researched based mod
For individuals, I specialize in trauma and abuse recovery, depression/anxiety, grief, and building healthy boundaries.
I am in the business of healing, not learning the latest coping skills that "pop psychology" uses as bandages. I am a customer service driven clinician who puts my clients first. Your experience in therapy will be a safe place for your uniqueness without feeling odd or misunderstood. Spiritual formation has been apart of my individual growth therefore I weave it into my therapy in addition to researched based mod
(704) 710-8523 View (704) 710-8523
Photo of Bluestone Psychotherapy, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 28031, NC
Bluestone Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
In addition to providing wellness counseling, I work with multiple issues requiring mild to more intensive therapy skills and complicated grief, caregiver, and mood management issues.
I am passionate about helping adults and children through trauma. I value the innate potential each client has to gain insight and make the commitment to change their life when they are both ready and willing. I use compassion and accountability to provide a genuine platform for clients to reveal themselves without fear of judgments. In my therapeutic approach, I believe that each individual is unique. My treatment approach is customized to bring greater self-awareness, psychological healing, and inner satisfaction.
In addition to providing wellness counseling, I work with multiple issues requiring mild to more intensive therapy skills and complicated grief, caregiver, and mood management issues.
I am passionate about helping adults and children through trauma. I value the innate potential each client has to gain insight and make the commitment to change their life when they are both ready and willing. I use compassion and accountability to provide a genuine platform for clients to reveal themselves without fear of judgments. In my therapeutic approach, I believe that each individual is unique. My treatment approach is customized to bring greater self-awareness, psychological healing, and inner satisfaction.
(704) 766-8362 View (704) 766-8362
Photo of Ann B Bowen, Marriage & Family Therapist in 28031, NC
Ann B Bowen
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
I have also received additional training in grief counseling, marriage counseling, combined families, conflict and communication skills, relationship reconciliation, ADHD, stress management, identity development, anxiety and depression.
If life seems confusing, heavy or difficult, I believe that together we can empower you to successfully face areas of concern; we can look at patterns that have developed and how to lessen their grip on you; we can learn new coping skills to help you maneuver in a supportive and connecting manner; we can find joy and hope in your life. Together we can develop strategies to help you reach your unique goals and develop a strong sense of self to embrace life.
I have also received additional training in grief counseling, marriage counseling, combined families, conflict and communication skills, relationship reconciliation, ADHD, stress management, identity development, anxiety and depression.
If life seems confusing, heavy or difficult, I believe that together we can empower you to successfully face areas of concern; we can look at patterns that have developed and how to lessen their grip on you; we can learn new coping skills to help you maneuver in a supportive and connecting manner; we can find joy and hope in your life. Together we can develop strategies to help you reach your unique goals and develop a strong sense of self to embrace life.
(704) 710-8269 View (704) 710-8269
Photo of Jenna Daley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28031, NC
Jenna Daley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
I have worked with many individuals who have struggled with anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD/ADD, life changes such as loss of loved one, divorce/separation, moving, and many more life stressors.
I earned my undergraduate degree from University of Southern Maine and went on to receive my Masters of Social Work degree from University of Southern Maine. I have worked in various therapeutic settings such as group homes, a psychiatric hospital, community mental health center and most recently been in private practice for the past 11 years within the Lake Norman community. I opened Peaceful Path Counseling, PLLC in 2021.
I have worked with many individuals who have struggled with anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD/ADD, life changes such as loss of loved one, divorce/separation, moving, and many more life stressors.
I earned my undergraduate degree from University of Southern Maine and went on to receive my Masters of Social Work degree from University of Southern Maine. I have worked in various therapeutic settings such as group homes, a psychiatric hospital, community mental health center and most recently been in private practice for the past 11 years within the Lake Norman community. I opened Peaceful Path Counseling, PLLC in 2021.
(980) 372-4920 View (980) 372-4920
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.