Photo of Melanie Chitwood, Counselor in 98102, WA
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 Nica Selvaggio, Counselor in 98102, WA
Nica Selvaggio
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
I specialize in working with folks who struggle with eating disorders, PTSD, C-PTSD, Grief/Bereavement, Adoption and/or Foster Care, Gender Dysphoria, Transgender issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, and issues related to sex/sexuality.
Mental health shouldn’t be a privilege. So much of how we feel in our minds and bodies has to do with the identities we inhabit in the world and how our environments do or do not support us. Counseling is a tool that can be helpful when dealing with the natural anxiety, depression, and grief that can arise as a result of living in a culture that refuses to see you or value you. I work with folks through an anti-oppression and somatic (body-based) lens. As a Non-Binary and Queer therapist, I am passionate about the decolonization of the therapy space. The personal is political.
I specialize in working with folks who struggle with eating disorders, PTSD, C-PTSD, Grief/Bereavement, Adoption and/or Foster Care, Gender Dysphoria, Transgender issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, and issues related to sex/sexuality.
Mental health shouldn’t be a privilege. So much of how we feel in our minds and bodies has to do with the identities we inhabit in the world and how our environments do or do not support us. Counseling is a tool that can be helpful when dealing with the natural anxiety, depression, and grief that can arise as a result of living in a culture that refuses to see you or value you. I work with folks through an anti-oppression and somatic (body-based) lens. As a Non-Binary and Queer therapist, I am passionate about the decolonization of the therapy space. The personal is political.
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Photo of Marie Marotta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98102, WA
Marie Marotta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
Anxiety Depression Grief and Loss Chronic and life changing medical conditions Death and living with terminal illnesses Life stage transitions Elders Young Adults (18+) Mid Life Shifts Parenting and family stressors Pregnancy and Post Partum Depression and Anxiety Strengths based care.
My passion lies in supporting people to learn the skills necessary to live their best life at every stage. There are times in life when a professional perspective is needed, and my goal is to provide for psychosocial and emotional healing, helping to navigate difficult circumstances and provide for a supportive environment where each individual can achieve growth and fulfillment on their terms.
Anxiety Depression Grief and Loss Chronic and life changing medical conditions Death and living with terminal illnesses Life stage transitions Elders Young Adults (18+) Mid Life Shifts Parenting and family stressors Pregnancy and Post Partum Depression and Anxiety Strengths based care.
My passion lies in supporting people to learn the skills necessary to live their best life at every stage. There are times in life when a professional perspective is needed, and my goal is to provide for psychosocial and emotional healing, helping to navigate difficult circumstances and provide for a supportive environment where each individual can achieve growth and fulfillment on their terms.
(206) 573-8259 View (206) 573-8259
Photo of Tracy Klemme, Counselor in 98102, WA
Tracy Klemme
Counselor, LMHC, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
I specialize in working with individuals and couples facing life transitions, emotional disturbance, premarital therapy, marriage enrichment, depression, anxiety, life organization skills, family of origin work, transgenerational patterns, building interpersonal skills, communication skills, conflict resolution, infidelity, infertility, mindfulness, balanced life, co-parenting, low self-esteem, grief and loss.
As a marriage and family therapist I use a family systems approach based on gaining an understanding of how we think, feel and behave in the systems we belong to. I use an integrated approach, structuring sessions applicable to the client's needs; therefore, therapy is a collaborative effort and exchange. Both past and present life experiences shape who we are. Sometimes it can be difficult to navigate the many roles we play. It is my hope that I can help ease any discomfort or pain you experience in your families and relationships.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples facing life transitions, emotional disturbance, premarital therapy, marriage enrichment, depression, anxiety, life organization skills, family of origin work, transgenerational patterns, building interpersonal skills, communication skills, conflict resolution, infidelity, infertility, mindfulness, balanced life, co-parenting, low self-esteem, grief and loss.
As a marriage and family therapist I use a family systems approach based on gaining an understanding of how we think, feel and behave in the systems we belong to. I use an integrated approach, structuring sessions applicable to the client's needs; therefore, therapy is a collaborative effort and exchange. Both past and present life experiences shape who we are. Sometimes it can be difficult to navigate the many roles we play. It is my hope that I can help ease any discomfort or pain you experience in your families and relationships.
(206) 535-1473 View (206) 535-1473
Photo of Lizette Arroyo-Dillard, Pre-Licensed Professional in 98102, WA
Lizette Arroyo-Dillard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
I wish to serve people of color and other marginalized groups who have experienced chronic oppression and injustices. I would love to work with individuals, couples and families who are ready to step into their power and reclaim their voice. I wish to serve those who are in need of healing and need assistance processing grief, loss, frustration and exhaustion from life's trials and adversities. Being a person of color poses many challenges in this country and seeking help from professionals who look or talk nothing like you makes it far more difficult. I see you and I'm here for you.
I wish to serve people of color and other marginalized groups who have experienced chronic oppression and injustices. I would love to work with individuals, couples and families who are ready to step into their power and reclaim their voice. I wish to serve those who are in need of healing and need assistance processing grief, loss, frustration and exhaustion from life's trials and adversities. Being a person of color poses many challenges in this country and seeking help from professionals who look or talk nothing like you makes it far more difficult. I see you and I'm here for you.
(206) 483-0434 View (206) 483-0434
Photo of Carolann Freedman in 98102, WA
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 Lusa Hung, Psychologist in 98102, WA
Lusa Hung
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
Turning pain and loss into wisdom, guilt into gratitude, and shifting from avoidance to awareness are ways that can be helpful.
I practice exclusively with online clients residing in WA, CA & NY. I am out of network for all insurance panels. Psychology has always been a passion of mine in some shape or form. I have 14 yrs of clinical experience working with culturally diverse populations in international and domestic settings. My approach is mindfulness-based with a blend of CBT, person-centered therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I have expertise treating a wide range of psychological issues spanning the spectrum of depression, trauma/anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life adjustments, serving people across the lifespan and in different settings.
Turning pain and loss into wisdom, guilt into gratitude, and shifting from avoidance to awareness are ways that can be helpful.
I practice exclusively with online clients residing in WA, CA & NY. I am out of network for all insurance panels. Psychology has always been a passion of mine in some shape or form. I have 14 yrs of clinical experience working with culturally diverse populations in international and domestic settings. My approach is mindfulness-based with a blend of CBT, person-centered therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I have expertise treating a wide range of psychological issues spanning the spectrum of depression, trauma/anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life adjustments, serving people across the lifespan and in different settings.
(415) 825-3514 View (415) 825-3514
Photo of Katherine Lacette, Licensed Professional Counselor in 98102, WA
Katherine Lacette
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC , LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
Whether you are looking to deepen your emotional intelligence, move through grief, remove barriers to your full potential, integrate peak experiences, or to gain a greater sense of meaning in your life, I am confident that through our work together you can move towards your aspirations.
I love working with individuals who recognize the need for healing and growth. I appreciate the moments when we are wanting to gain self-awareness, improve our relationships, and feel motivated to become more engaged in life. If you are not quite ready to heal, I enjoy helping you create a safe space in which to start. I enjoy getting to learn about what makes up the incredible Being that you already are, and most of all I love getting to work with you as you move towards your greatest potential.
Whether you are looking to deepen your emotional intelligence, move through grief, remove barriers to your full potential, integrate peak experiences, or to gain a greater sense of meaning in your life, I am confident that through our work together you can move towards your aspirations.
I love working with individuals who recognize the need for healing and growth. I appreciate the moments when we are wanting to gain self-awareness, improve our relationships, and feel motivated to become more engaged in life. If you are not quite ready to heal, I enjoy helping you create a safe space in which to start. I enjoy getting to learn about what makes up the incredible Being that you already are, and most of all I love getting to work with you as you move towards your greatest potential.
(970) 432-0425 View (970) 432-0425
Photo of Kendall Cline, Counselor in 98102, WA
Kendall Cline
Counselor, MA, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
Waitlist for new clients
Restoring balance and healing our self-limiting beliefs really is possible. Often, our life stressors point to where we need to heal. I am passionate about working with adults who are motivated for that change. I work with Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems (IFS) and other therapies to treat anxiety/depression, grief and loss, PTSD, past traumas or current triggers, interpersonal conflict, attachment differences and more.
Restoring balance and healing our self-limiting beliefs really is possible. Often, our life stressors point to where we need to heal. I am passionate about working with adults who are motivated for that change. I work with Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems (IFS) and other therapies to treat anxiety/depression, grief and loss, PTSD, past traumas or current triggers, interpersonal conflict, attachment differences and more.
(360) 526-0115 View (360) 526-0115
Photo of Dr. Kevin Joseph Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98102, WA
Dr. Kevin Joseph Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LICSW, LCSWR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
I specialize in the provision of trauma recovery, loss and grief, transition issues, anxiety, and family and marriage therapy.
I have had the great privilege of serving a wide range of individuals, couples, and families for over two decades of professional practice. In that time I have worked with a vast array of clinical issues including chronic stress and anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, marital and family struggles, substance abuse, trauma in all of its forms, esteem and self-worth, identity, disordered eating, academic and employment challenges, death and dying, and transitions across the life span. My approach is direct, supportive, and educational, and my ultimate intention is to literally teach you how to be your own therapist.
I specialize in the provision of trauma recovery, loss and grief, transition issues, anxiety, and family and marriage therapy.
I have had the great privilege of serving a wide range of individuals, couples, and families for over two decades of professional practice. In that time I have worked with a vast array of clinical issues including chronic stress and anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, marital and family struggles, substance abuse, trauma in all of its forms, esteem and self-worth, identity, disordered eating, academic and employment challenges, death and dying, and transitions across the life span. My approach is direct, supportive, and educational, and my ultimate intention is to literally teach you how to be your own therapist.
(607) 524-3487 View (607) 524-3487
Photo of Kai Scantlin, Psychologist in 98102, WA
Kai Scantlin
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I use a combination of warmth, curiosity, honesty, and respectful humor, and I take a collaborative approach to therapy – while I will always prioritize listening closely to what you’re saying, I’ll also share my own thoughts and perspectives as they arise. I work well with individuals who are actively engaged in therapy and who trust - or would like to trust - their own experience as a valid guide. I see you as the only person who can truly decide what is important to you, and I see myself as someone who can offer some insights and tools that will help you get closer to it.
I use a combination of warmth, curiosity, honesty, and respectful humor, and I take a collaborative approach to therapy – while I will always prioritize listening closely to what you’re saying, I’ll also share my own thoughts and perspectives as they arise. I work well with individuals who are actively engaged in therapy and who trust - or would like to trust - their own experience as a valid guide. I see you as the only person who can truly decide what is important to you, and I see myself as someone who can offer some insights and tools that will help you get closer to it.
(206) 674-5052 View (206) 674-5052
Photo of Amanda Rausch LMFT, PLLC NoStressNoStigma.com, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98102, WA
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, come visit my office in a charming 1900's Craftsman home near the Junction in West Seattle! Check out www.nostressnostigma.com for details!
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, come visit my office in a charming 1900's Craftsman home near the Junction in West Seattle! Check out www.nostressnostigma.com for details!
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Photo of Teena Evert, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98102, WA
Teena Evert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, BCC
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
Few things are more frustrating than repeating the same fight with your partner. Playing out disagreements about money, parenting, sex, or household chores may leave you exhausted, and cut off from the person you want to feel close to. While conflicts in any relationship are inevitable, healing is possible. It’s time to break the cycle and overcome your chronic relationship struggles. I'm here to guide you towards being in each other's care - where you feel safe, connected, and recommitted to the longevity of your marriage, partnership, or couplehood.
Few things are more frustrating than repeating the same fight with your partner. Playing out disagreements about money, parenting, sex, or household chores may leave you exhausted, and cut off from the person you want to feel close to. While conflicts in any relationship are inevitable, healing is possible. It’s time to break the cycle and overcome your chronic relationship struggles. I'm here to guide you towards being in each other's care - where you feel safe, connected, and recommitted to the longevity of your marriage, partnership, or couplehood.
(720) 637-4901 View (720) 637-4901
Photo of Amanda Leigh Watson, Counselor in 98102, WA
Amanda Leigh Watson
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
As a member of a neurodivergent family, I understand how difficult it can be to find providers who are knowledgeable and/or willing to work with neurodivergent clients in typical mental health settings, and on the things that are important to them, rather than on what society dictates. I am also a queer and gender non-conforming woman, and aim to provide a space that is affirming of all genders and sexualities. In all cases, my goal is to provide the kind of knowledgeable, validating care I wish my family and myself could have had available when we needed it most.
As a member of a neurodivergent family, I understand how difficult it can be to find providers who are knowledgeable and/or willing to work with neurodivergent clients in typical mental health settings, and on the things that are important to them, rather than on what society dictates. I am also a queer and gender non-conforming woman, and aim to provide a space that is affirming of all genders and sexualities. In all cases, my goal is to provide the kind of knowledgeable, validating care I wish my family and myself could have had available when we needed it most.
(425) 510-5424 View (425) 510-5424
Photo of Nicholas S. Sciarrone, Counselor in 98102, WA
Nicholas S. Sciarrone
Counselor, LMHC, MHP, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, self esteem, SUD, and struggles related to life transitions. I help clients find the solid ground they need to support forward movement and a more positive trajectory. I begin by working with clients in developing a deeper understanding of themselves to arm them with the knowledge necessary to address their problems and make changes necessary to develop more adaptive coping strategies and improve the quality of their lives. I am non-judgmental and work to create a space in which clients can freely explore, uncover, and accept themselves more fully to live fuller, more meaningful lives.
I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, self esteem, SUD, and struggles related to life transitions. I help clients find the solid ground they need to support forward movement and a more positive trajectory. I begin by working with clients in developing a deeper understanding of themselves to arm them with the knowledge necessary to address their problems and make changes necessary to develop more adaptive coping strategies and improve the quality of their lives. I am non-judgmental and work to create a space in which clients can freely explore, uncover, and accept themselves more fully to live fuller, more meaningful lives.
(206) 502-0894 View (206) 502-0894
Photo of Alison Draisin, Counselor in 98102, WA
Alison Draisin
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
** I am ONLY accepting new patients seeking cannabis or psychedelic psychotherapy.** I do have supervisees (MA level and LMHCA) that work under me with availability for talk therapy. I work with clients of all ages who are open minded and looking to explore alternative modalities of treatment for depression, anxiety, or trauma. I work in an integrative medical clinic where there is collaboration with medical (palliative care) doctors, naturopathic doctors, and psychiatric nurse practitioners. Our clinic offers advanced cutting edge integrative medical care.
** I am ONLY accepting new patients seeking cannabis or psychedelic psychotherapy.** I do have supervisees (MA level and LMHCA) that work under me with availability for talk therapy. I work with clients of all ages who are open minded and looking to explore alternative modalities of treatment for depression, anxiety, or trauma. I work in an integrative medical clinic where there is collaboration with medical (palliative care) doctors, naturopathic doctors, and psychiatric nurse practitioners. Our clinic offers advanced cutting edge integrative medical care.
(206) 420-1321 View (206) 420-1321
Photo of Joseph Henry, Counselor in 98102, WA
Joseph Henry
Counselor, MA, LMCH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
We all experience great changes during our lives, evolutions in identity, shifts in how we see ourselves and how others see us. I specialize in helping people grow in the wake of significant life events and changes. Through reflection and dialogue we can understand and make meaning of our journey.
We all experience great changes during our lives, evolutions in identity, shifts in how we see ourselves and how others see us. I specialize in helping people grow in the wake of significant life events and changes. Through reflection and dialogue we can understand and make meaning of our journey.
(206) 785-2205 View (206) 785-2205
Photo of Peter Jabin, Counselor in 98102, WA
Peter Jabin
Counselor, MDiv, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
At some point, many of us can be overwhelmed by feelings anxiety, anger, disconnectedness -- or maybe we simply feel stuck in life. These painful places are not just emotional experiences; they can also be seen as spiritual. They carry the potential to transform us. The key to unlocking such transformation is to listen deeply enough to discover the meaning inherent in our most difficult experiences. I can help you to do that; it is the work I love to do. My goal is to help you discover greater freedom by connecting with your own deepest wisdom.
At some point, many of us can be overwhelmed by feelings anxiety, anger, disconnectedness -- or maybe we simply feel stuck in life. These painful places are not just emotional experiences; they can also be seen as spiritual. They carry the potential to transform us. The key to unlocking such transformation is to listen deeply enough to discover the meaning inherent in our most difficult experiences. I can help you to do that; it is the work I love to do. My goal is to help you discover greater freedom by connecting with your own deepest wisdom.
(206) 249-9828 View (206) 249-9828
Photo of Dr. Sean Patrick Hatt, Psychologist in 98102, WA
Dr. Sean Patrick Hatt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
Our work will be informed by the leading edge of neuroscience, scientifically supported, positive psychological interventions, and the 2,500 year-old Buddhist practice of mindfulness--which has garnered volumes of recent scientific attention for its efficacy as a therapeutic tool. Lastly, I am trained and certified by the founder of CIMBS or Complex Integration of Multiple Brain Systems, Terry Sheldon, M.D. CIMBS is a groundbreaking integrative mind-body psychotherapy.
Our work will be informed by the leading edge of neuroscience, scientifically supported, positive psychological interventions, and the 2,500 year-old Buddhist practice of mindfulness--which has garnered volumes of recent scientific attention for its efficacy as a therapeutic tool. Lastly, I am trained and certified by the founder of CIMBS or Complex Integration of Multiple Brain Systems, Terry Sheldon, M.D. CIMBS is a groundbreaking integrative mind-body psychotherapy.
(206) 745-0623 View (206) 745-0623
Photo of Dr. Laura Carter Robinson, Psychologist in 98102, WA
Dr. Laura Carter Robinson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
Teletherapy in MI, WA, and VT; in person MI. If you're an adult or college student experiencing anxiety, depression, climate anxiety, or other concerns, you deserve support. My approach focuses on how you have developed as a person, how context affects your life, and how your symptoms are playing a role in your life. The end result of therapy can be not only a change in your symptoms but also a deeper self-awareness and a greater satisfaction in many areas of your life. I've worked and trained in community clinics, a college counseling center, and in hospital outpatient and inpatient clinics, as well as in climate-conscious therapy.
Teletherapy in MI, WA, and VT; in person MI. If you're an adult or college student experiencing anxiety, depression, climate anxiety, or other concerns, you deserve support. My approach focuses on how you have developed as a person, how context affects your life, and how your symptoms are playing a role in your life. The end result of therapy can be not only a change in your symptoms but also a deeper self-awareness and a greater satisfaction in many areas of your life. I've worked and trained in community clinics, a college counseling center, and in hospital outpatient and inpatient clinics, as well as in climate-conscious therapy.
(734) 469-3336 View (734) 469-3336
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.