Photo of Jessica Ann Jobaris, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Jessica Ann Jobaris
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
Let's meet the work of grief together, find meaning in your pain, and unearth new dreams.
Good Grief. Life’s unpredictability, traumatic experiences, loss and difficult relationships can leave us feeling confused, stuck, anxious, depressed even…hopeless. As a relational therapist, my purpose is to move with you, through your pain, discovering together how the grief you are experiencing might be the "good grief," moving you towards wholeness & growth. If the entire human project is the process of transforming our suffering into meaning, then this is your brave journey. You are unique. Your agonies are unique. Your life story and your longings are unique. Yet, you are not alone. Let's meet the work of discovery...together.
Let's meet the work of grief together, find meaning in your pain, and unearth new dreams.
Good Grief. Life’s unpredictability, traumatic experiences, loss and difficult relationships can leave us feeling confused, stuck, anxious, depressed even…hopeless. As a relational therapist, my purpose is to move with you, through your pain, discovering together how the grief you are experiencing might be the "good grief," moving you towards wholeness & growth. If the entire human project is the process of transforming our suffering into meaning, then this is your brave journey. You are unique. Your agonies are unique. Your life story and your longings are unique. Yet, you are not alone. Let's meet the work of discovery...together.
(425) 517-0991 View (425) 517-0991
Photo of Alana Jaeck, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Alana Jaeck
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I help people who feel stuck, anxious, who are facing life changes (big or small), or the loss of something or someone they loved, get to know themselves better and discover the answers deep inside of them.
You look at your life and part of you thinks you should be happy, satisfied, and dealing with whatever comes your way with more ease and gratitude but instead you feel lost. Even if you don’t know exactly what is wrong, you know something needs to change. Maybe there is a stuck feeling that you carry with you, forcing you to wonder if this is just how things are always going to be. Whether you’re going through a major transition, grieving the loss of someone or something in your life, or are realizing that your circumstances need to shift, you want to move forward. You're ready to get unstuck.
I help people who feel stuck, anxious, who are facing life changes (big or small), or the loss of something or someone they loved, get to know themselves better and discover the answers deep inside of them.
You look at your life and part of you thinks you should be happy, satisfied, and dealing with whatever comes your way with more ease and gratitude but instead you feel lost. Even if you don’t know exactly what is wrong, you know something needs to change. Maybe there is a stuck feeling that you carry with you, forcing you to wonder if this is just how things are always going to be. Whether you’re going through a major transition, grieving the loss of someone or something in your life, or are realizing that your circumstances need to shift, you want to move forward. You're ready to get unstuck.
(206) 203-2582 View (206) 203-2582
Photo of Melanie Chitwood, MA, LMHC, LPCC, MBPsS, Counselor
Melanie Chitwood
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC, MBPsS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
My specialty areas include grief & loss; bereavement from terminal illness as well as from sudden/unexpected causes; adjusting to culture/reverse culture shock; relationship struggles; work related stressors, rebuilding identity after a break-up or divorce; neurodivergence; victims of sexual abuse; & therapy for professionals experiencing vicarious trauma.
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting process, yet it is one that really matters. It is understandable to feel out of sorts, isolated, or misunderstood when experiencing relationship, family, peer, academic, or workplace stress, during a life transition, or when recovering from trauma. You may also be struggling with a death, the end of a relationship, a relocation from another state or country, an adjustment to a health issue of yourself or a loved one, or being in an environment in which you feel you don't fit. It can be painful to experience these feelings and to try to find a way forward. You don't have to do this alone.
My specialty areas include grief & loss; bereavement from terminal illness as well as from sudden/unexpected causes; adjusting to culture/reverse culture shock; relationship struggles; work related stressors, rebuilding identity after a break-up or divorce; neurodivergence; victims of sexual abuse; & therapy for professionals experiencing vicarious trauma.
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting process, yet it is one that really matters. It is understandable to feel out of sorts, isolated, or misunderstood when experiencing relationship, family, peer, academic, or workplace stress, during a life transition, or when recovering from trauma. You may also be struggling with a death, the end of a relationship, a relocation from another state or country, an adjustment to a health issue of yourself or a loved one, or being in an environment in which you feel you don't fit. It can be painful to experience these feelings and to try to find a way forward. You don't have to do this alone.
(206) 462-5694 View (206) 462-5694
Photo of Lisa Benjamin, LMHCA, MA, Counselor
Lisa Benjamin
Counselor, LMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
Engaging in therapy is an act of bravery and self-love. I have immediate in person, telehealth, & weekend availability. I offer a safe and sex positive place where you will feel seen and heard. My approach is collaborative, non-judgmental and gently direct. I work with clients who may be healing from trauma, experiencing grief and loss, exploring their identity, or grappling with anxiety. I tailor each session to the unique needs of my clients. If you suffer from awful panic attacks, I'll give you strategies to tolerate and manage them so you can stop canceling plans at the last minute and gain control over your anxiety
Engaging in therapy is an act of bravery and self-love. I have immediate in person, telehealth, & weekend availability. I offer a safe and sex positive place where you will feel seen and heard. My approach is collaborative, non-judgmental and gently direct. I work with clients who may be healing from trauma, experiencing grief and loss, exploring their identity, or grappling with anxiety. I tailor each session to the unique needs of my clients. If you suffer from awful panic attacks, I'll give you strategies to tolerate and manage them so you can stop canceling plans at the last minute and gain control over your anxiety
(425) 475-2124 View (425) 475-2124
Photo of Angela Schellenberg - Dragonfly Counseling Center, LMHC, Counselor
Dragonfly Counseling Center
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
We help you unpack your story and process the emotions, trauma, grief, and loss that often come along with our stories.
Hello and welcome to Dragonfly Counseling Center. If you are looking for trauma-informed counselors to work through some things you are dealing with in your life, you have come to the right place. We are a group of humanistic counselors who specialize in trauma, childhood trauma, grief, loss, and attachment, We listen to what our client's specific needs are and build a treatment plan using the modality that best fits you. Building a supportive relationship with your therapist is key. Research shows that building a relationship with unconditional positive regard helps aid in the healing process as well as attachment.
We help you unpack your story and process the emotions, trauma, grief, and loss that often come along with our stories.
Hello and welcome to Dragonfly Counseling Center. If you are looking for trauma-informed counselors to work through some things you are dealing with in your life, you have come to the right place. We are a group of humanistic counselors who specialize in trauma, childhood trauma, grief, loss, and attachment, We listen to what our client's specific needs are and build a treatment plan using the modality that best fits you. Building a supportive relationship with your therapist is key. Research shows that building a relationship with unconditional positive regard helps aid in the healing process as well as attachment.
(206) 759-7673 View (206) 759-7673
Photo of Yi-An Lo Burleson, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Yi-An Lo Burleson
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I believe that everyone can explore internally and foster potential to create a brighter outlook of life. Through open-minded and non-judgmental collaboration, I work with many individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, interpersonal, family dynamic issues, career concerns, trauma, grief, parenting, and body image issues. Almost 20 years of experience, I assist children, adults, families, and couples exploring self-understanding, identifying emotional and behavioral patterns, develop new perspectives and emotion and stress management skills, making meaningful interpersonal connections, and making career decisions.
I believe that everyone can explore internally and foster potential to create a brighter outlook of life. Through open-minded and non-judgmental collaboration, I work with many individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, interpersonal, family dynamic issues, career concerns, trauma, grief, parenting, and body image issues. Almost 20 years of experience, I assist children, adults, families, and couples exploring self-understanding, identifying emotional and behavioral patterns, develop new perspectives and emotion and stress management skills, making meaningful interpersonal connections, and making career decisions.
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Photo of Carolann Freedman, MA, LMHC, NCC, NBCCH
Carolann Freedman
MA, LMHC, NCC, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
I have treated many people with social anxiety, and am also a bereavement therapist.
As a clinical therapist, I help people who are struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression and loss. I teach my clients to practice what I call "the reverse golden rule": treat yourself as you would treat others! We are often so critical of ourselves, while with a friend we would be kind, supportive, compassionate. My 20+ years of experience have given me the tools to work using an eclectic approach that I tailor to each client. I offer a comfortable, safe environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, where you can feel heard, understood and validated.
I have treated many people with social anxiety, and am also a bereavement therapist.
As a clinical therapist, I help people who are struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression and loss. I teach my clients to practice what I call "the reverse golden rule": treat yourself as you would treat others! We are often so critical of ourselves, while with a friend we would be kind, supportive, compassionate. My 20+ years of experience have given me the tools to work using an eclectic approach that I tailor to each client. I offer a comfortable, safe environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, where you can feel heard, understood and validated.
(206) 999-3883 View (206) 999-3883
Photo of Virginia A Diaz, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Virginia A Diaz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
When you invest time in yourself amazing insights and change can occur. Sometimes all it takes is sitting down with an objective person to share what you've been going through. The best part of my job is getting to be that person for my clients! I work with women with a range of challenges from depression and anxiety to substance use issues, self esteem/body image challenges, pre/postpartum challenges, and grief/ loss.
When you invest time in yourself amazing insights and change can occur. Sometimes all it takes is sitting down with an objective person to share what you've been going through. The best part of my job is getting to be that person for my clients! I work with women with a range of challenges from depression and anxiety to substance use issues, self esteem/body image challenges, pre/postpartum challenges, and grief/ loss.
(206) 823-2275 View (206) 823-2275
Photo of Emily Martin, MAEd, LMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Emily Martin
Counselor, MAEd, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I specialize in areas of attachments/relationships, anxiety/stress, depression/ grief, identity exploration, women’s issues, self-esteem, burnout, life transitions/adjustments, and perinatal mental health.
Now accepting Premera, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and LifeWise! Whatever forms of hardship we may be experiencing, it takes courage and commitment to seek positive change. Therapy is just one of many ways to express this courage and to process experiences in life. I provide a safe and supportive space rooted in the foundation of collaboration and compassion for you to reflect, discover, and receive support. I am a dedicated Licensed Mental Health Clinician Associate and am Nationally Certified to provide support to those seeking therapy services in Washington State.
I specialize in areas of attachments/relationships, anxiety/stress, depression/ grief, identity exploration, women’s issues, self-esteem, burnout, life transitions/adjustments, and perinatal mental health.
Now accepting Premera, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and LifeWise! Whatever forms of hardship we may be experiencing, it takes courage and commitment to seek positive change. Therapy is just one of many ways to express this courage and to process experiences in life. I provide a safe and supportive space rooted in the foundation of collaboration and compassion for you to reflect, discover, and receive support. I am a dedicated Licensed Mental Health Clinician Associate and am Nationally Certified to provide support to those seeking therapy services in Washington State.
(206) 756-1000 View (206) 756-1000
Photo of Brittani Morris - Neupathway (Brittani Morris), LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neupathway (Brittani Morris)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
Brittani Morris is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 20 years of experience as an educator, published author, mental health therapist and professional coach. Dedicated to working with adults using a person-centered approach, Brittani provides tailored treatment that helps to support specific needs and goals utilizing evidence-based models and culturally sensitive interventions. Within treatment she has had success supporting clients with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, relationship challenges, career difficulties, and stress related disorders.
Brittani Morris is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 20 years of experience as an educator, published author, mental health therapist and professional coach. Dedicated to working with adults using a person-centered approach, Brittani provides tailored treatment that helps to support specific needs and goals utilizing evidence-based models and culturally sensitive interventions. Within treatment she has had success supporting clients with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, relationship challenges, career difficulties, and stress related disorders.
(425) 842-0946 View (425) 842-0946
Photo of Rubjoyt Singh, MA, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Rubjoyt Singh
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
Welcome to my page and congratulations on taking the first step towards investing in your well-being. I hope to hear from you. Human experiences such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, family of origin issues, relational issues, trauma, abuse, and neglect can often lead to feelings of being stuck, social isolation, struggles with meaning making and spirituality, unmet needs, lack of self-awareness, incongruence, and hopelessness. Counseling can be an amazing resource in such times because we all deserve to be heard and seen in a safe place.
Welcome to my page and congratulations on taking the first step towards investing in your well-being. I hope to hear from you. Human experiences such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, family of origin issues, relational issues, trauma, abuse, and neglect can often lead to feelings of being stuck, social isolation, struggles with meaning making and spirituality, unmet needs, lack of self-awareness, incongruence, and hopelessness. Counseling can be an amazing resource in such times because we all deserve to be heard and seen in a safe place.
(509) 584-4186 View (509) 584-4186
Photo of Kaci Schmitt, LPC, LMHC, LPCC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaci Schmitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
I deeply believe in your ability to find peace, develop your intuition and wisdom to make your own choices about your life, and create new meaning and find healing from trauma, including systemic and intergenerational trauma. I am a humanistic, existentially oriented, compassion-focused Internal Family Systems (IFS) trained therapist who sees clients in Oregon, Washington, and California. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and strive for inclusivity and curiosity for all people. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, transitions, grief and loss, indecision, school/work stress, and relationship conflicts, among other issues.
I deeply believe in your ability to find peace, develop your intuition and wisdom to make your own choices about your life, and create new meaning and find healing from trauma, including systemic and intergenerational trauma. I am a humanistic, existentially oriented, compassion-focused Internal Family Systems (IFS) trained therapist who sees clients in Oregon, Washington, and California. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and strive for inclusivity and curiosity for all people. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, transitions, grief and loss, indecision, school/work stress, and relationship conflicts, among other issues.
(360) 227-5943 View (360) 227-5943
Photo of Amanda Rausch - Amanda Rausch LMFT, PLLC NoStressNoStigma.com, MA, LMFT, AAMFT , RYT, BH-TMH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Rausch LMFT, PLLC NoStressNoStigma.com
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AAMFT , RYT, BH-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
No matter what you are going through, know that I am here to listen, support you and help you figure it all out! Welcome to the newest generation of self care and mental health- this is easy, accessible, no-stress, stigma free help for whatever you are going through. Feel free to wear your sweatpants, sit on the couch and have a session on your phone or lap top. Prefer in person? No problem, we can talk a walk outdoors, meet in a coffee shop, or meet in my West Seattle or Fremont Office space. Clients have told me I provide a compassionate, empathetic and truthful perspective.
No matter what you are going through, know that I am here to listen, support you and help you figure it all out! Welcome to the newest generation of self care and mental health- this is easy, accessible, no-stress, stigma free help for whatever you are going through. Feel free to wear your sweatpants, sit on the couch and have a session on your phone or lap top. Prefer in person? No problem, we can talk a walk outdoors, meet in a coffee shop, or meet in my West Seattle or Fremont Office space. Clients have told me I provide a compassionate, empathetic and truthful perspective.
(206) 578-3210 View (206) 578-3210
Photo of Jordana Krueger-Toscher, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordana Krueger-Toscher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I've specialized in helping folks through tough times for over two decades. Through a warm, down-to-earth, collaborative approach I'll partner with you to achieve your goals and find inner peace. By using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with a focus on mindfulness and your unique strengths, I can help you understand and modify your thoughts, feelings and behaviors. My areas of expertise include managing anxiety, reducing stress around relationships, family, work and life transitions, improving self esteem, setting boundaries, living with infertility and childlessness, adults with ADHD and living with neurodiverse children and partners.
I've specialized in helping folks through tough times for over two decades. Through a warm, down-to-earth, collaborative approach I'll partner with you to achieve your goals and find inner peace. By using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with a focus on mindfulness and your unique strengths, I can help you understand and modify your thoughts, feelings and behaviors. My areas of expertise include managing anxiety, reducing stress around relationships, family, work and life transitions, improving self esteem, setting boundaries, living with infertility and childlessness, adults with ADHD and living with neurodiverse children and partners.
(971) 248-2602 View (971) 248-2602
Photo of Ewa Lichnowska, MS, LMHC, CST, Counselor
Ewa Lichnowska
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CST
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
Do you struggle with issues like emotional and sexual intimacy? Do you struggle with the ability to experience sexual pleasure and orgasm? Do you experience anxiety about your sexual ability, performance or out of control sexual behaviors? Are there desire or sexual preference discrepancies in your relationship that are a source of conflict affecting the level of connection with your partner and your self-worth? Do your sexual preferences, kinks, or orientation not conform to societal expectations resulting in feelings of hopelessness, isolation or shame? If any of this describes your experience, I would love to meet you.
Do you struggle with issues like emotional and sexual intimacy? Do you struggle with the ability to experience sexual pleasure and orgasm? Do you experience anxiety about your sexual ability, performance or out of control sexual behaviors? Are there desire or sexual preference discrepancies in your relationship that are a source of conflict affecting the level of connection with your partner and your self-worth? Do your sexual preferences, kinks, or orientation not conform to societal expectations resulting in feelings of hopelessness, isolation or shame? If any of this describes your experience, I would love to meet you.
(206) 538-2871 View (206) 538-2871
Photo of Amber Hughes, MA, LMHC, SEP, Counselor
Amber Hughes
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SEP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
I work with adults, children, teens, and couples who are seeking insight into their own processes and behaviors, with a desire to heal broken places. I am passionate about helping people connect to their inner strength, beauty, and goodness, which means I will have a bias toward kindness and self-compassion. It can be intimidating and overwhelming making the first steps toward wellness-I aim to be open and authentic right off the bat to help ease some of the anxiety. I am an artist who has spent many years working in restaurants, so I especially love working with artists and folks in the service industry as they pursue wellness.
I work with adults, children, teens, and couples who are seeking insight into their own processes and behaviors, with a desire to heal broken places. I am passionate about helping people connect to their inner strength, beauty, and goodness, which means I will have a bias toward kindness and self-compassion. It can be intimidating and overwhelming making the first steps toward wellness-I aim to be open and authentic right off the bat to help ease some of the anxiety. I am an artist who has spent many years working in restaurants, so I especially love working with artists and folks in the service industry as they pursue wellness.
(253) 364-7731 View (253) 364-7731
Photo of Bronwyn Wrobel, LMFT, LMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bronwyn Wrobel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
As a Transpersonal Psychotherapist I offer mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual support. I teach you to Love & Accept yourself unconditionally. When you Trust yourself to handle whatever life presents you, you tap into limitless power. You begin to see how every life experience has value and growth potential. Your perspective shifts and life begins to work for you instead of against you. Check out my website for more information www.wizetherapy.com
As a Transpersonal Psychotherapist I offer mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual support. I teach you to Love & Accept yourself unconditionally. When you Trust yourself to handle whatever life presents you, you tap into limitless power. You begin to see how every life experience has value and growth potential. Your perspective shifts and life begins to work for you instead of against you. Check out my website for more information www.wizetherapy.com
(310) 905-8625 View (310) 905-8625
Photo of Madison C Linck, LMHC, LSWAIC, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madison C Linck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMHC, LSWAIC, MSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
www.thehealinglinck.com. I am accepting New CLIENTS! As a therapist, I don’t think therapy should be too stiff. We will build a therapeutic relationship by getting to know each other and building trust. I will be direct, compassionate, and challenge you (gently). I’m a regular person. You may hear me use a cuss word or a few or a lot. I will laugh at your jokes and I would love to meet your pets! Since I provide online therapy, that’s actually possible. I will show you how to be vulnerable and authentic by being that way myself. I will give you direct feedback. You can say whatever you want and I will listen without judgement!
www.thehealinglinck.com. I am accepting New CLIENTS! As a therapist, I don’t think therapy should be too stiff. We will build a therapeutic relationship by getting to know each other and building trust. I will be direct, compassionate, and challenge you (gently). I’m a regular person. You may hear me use a cuss word or a few or a lot. I will laugh at your jokes and I would love to meet your pets! Since I provide online therapy, that’s actually possible. I will show you how to be vulnerable and authentic by being that way myself. I will give you direct feedback. You can say whatever you want and I will listen without judgement!
(206) 278-9850 View (206) 278-9850
Photo of Stacy Kratz - Neupathway (Stacy Kratz), LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neupathway (Stacy Kratz)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
Dr. Stacy Kratz is a positive, compassionate, and enthusiastic PhD LCSW with over 15 years of experience at the forefront of therapy. She specializes in helping clients aged 13 and older develop effective life strategies and achieve relationship success. With deep empathy, Dr. Kratz supports her patients in setting goals and creating actionable plans for personal growth. She employs evidence-based, personalized treatments, focusing on compassionate care, genuine positive regard, hope, and humor. Dr. Kratz believes that a strong therapeutic relationship, combined with cutting-edge approaches, is key to successful treatment.
Dr. Stacy Kratz is a positive, compassionate, and enthusiastic PhD LCSW with over 15 years of experience at the forefront of therapy. She specializes in helping clients aged 13 and older develop effective life strategies and achieve relationship success. With deep empathy, Dr. Kratz supports her patients in setting goals and creating actionable plans for personal growth. She employs evidence-based, personalized treatments, focusing on compassionate care, genuine positive regard, hope, and humor. Dr. Kratz believes that a strong therapeutic relationship, combined with cutting-edge approaches, is key to successful treatment.
(425) 952-9869 View (425) 952-9869
Photo of Alisha Bachman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alisha Bachman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
We've all heard the saying: communication is key. But when we have feelings for someone, critical conversations can be hard to start. Our minds go blank, we become hyper-focused on our partner, and leaving the room can feel like the safest option. I work with individuals to help them strengthen communication and explore a deeper, healthier connection in their relationships.
We've all heard the saying: communication is key. But when we have feelings for someone, critical conversations can be hard to start. Our minds go blank, we become hyper-focused on our partner, and leaving the room can feel like the safest option. I work with individuals to help them strengthen communication and explore a deeper, healthier connection in their relationships.
(206) 922-4583 View (206) 922-4583
1
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.