Photo of Debby Rager, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Debby Rager
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
I believe in the resiliency of people. Whether you face a relational issue, loss of a loved one, trauma, or ongoing mental health concern, I can work with you to create positive change and move you through a healing process by identifying your existing coping skills and building on your strengths and community. I have a collaborative approach-and expect that we will work together to create change. I like to work with adults as well as children and families as I believe that variety makes me a better therapist. When working with children, I work closely with the family.
I believe in the resiliency of people. Whether you face a relational issue, loss of a loved one, trauma, or ongoing mental health concern, I can work with you to create positive change and move you through a healing process by identifying your existing coping skills and building on your strengths and community. I have a collaborative approach-and expect that we will work together to create change. I like to work with adults as well as children and families as I believe that variety makes me a better therapist. When working with children, I work closely with the family.
(202) 684-2567 View (202) 684-2567
Photo of Elizabeth Horrigan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Elizabeth Horrigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Our mind supports us in so many ways. But from time to time our mind needs support just like the rest of our body. Events in our life may impact our mind. You might have just gotten some challenging health news, recently lost a loved one, or sometimes it’s something from your past that keeps popping up. Or it could be the day to day of witnessing sadness in the news. Regardless of the reason, your mind deserves the same care as the rest of your body. My specialties include trauma, grief, anxiety, and health conditions (including fertility journeys and perinatal care).
Our mind supports us in so many ways. But from time to time our mind needs support just like the rest of our body. Events in our life may impact our mind. You might have just gotten some challenging health news, recently lost a loved one, or sometimes it’s something from your past that keeps popping up. Or it could be the day to day of witnessing sadness in the news. Regardless of the reason, your mind deserves the same care as the rest of your body. My specialties include trauma, grief, anxiety, and health conditions (including fertility journeys and perinatal care).
(571) 616-9593 View (571) 616-9593
Photo of Joanna Lhulier, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Joanna Lhulier
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
Therapy is an opportunity to get to know yourself better and decide if there are other choices and/or life paths available to you. It is not an easy process, but many find that it is well worth the effort. I can help you make the best use of this opportunity. I work with patients with a wide variety of challenges including eating disorders, mood disorders (depression and anxiety), relationship issues, parenting children with special needs, and loss. Feel free to check out my website for more info www.drlhulier.com or call 202-262-1483.
Therapy is an opportunity to get to know yourself better and decide if there are other choices and/or life paths available to you. It is not an easy process, but many find that it is well worth the effort. I can help you make the best use of this opportunity. I work with patients with a wide variety of challenges including eating disorders, mood disorders (depression and anxiety), relationship issues, parenting children with special needs, and loss. Feel free to check out my website for more info www.drlhulier.com or call 202-262-1483.
(202) 791-4142 View (202) 791-4142
Photo of James Forrest Huntington, Psychologist in Washington, DC
James Forrest Huntington
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Dr. Huntington has extensive experience helping adolescents, adults, and families improve functioning by increasing communication skills, sharpening boundaries, and building stronger relationships. Clients with anxiety, depression, grief, substance use problems, and general issues with adjustment have all benefited from his motivational, collaborative approach. Frank discussions help clients clarify values, examine emotion, and focus on the present in ways that are consistent with mindfulness-based cognitive behavior therapy. Clients soon spend less time struggling as they grow more accepting of themselves.New skills make them more optimistic and more eager to take on new challenges.
Dr. Huntington has extensive experience helping adolescents, adults, and families improve functioning by increasing communication skills, sharpening boundaries, and building stronger relationships. Clients with anxiety, depression, grief, substance use problems, and general issues with adjustment have all benefited from his motivational, collaborative approach. Frank discussions help clients clarify values, examine emotion, and focus on the present in ways that are consistent with mindfulness-based cognitive behavior therapy. Clients soon spend less time struggling as they grow more accepting of themselves.New skills make them more optimistic and more eager to take on new challenges.
(202) 683-6963 View (202) 683-6963
Photo of Nicole Twaalfhoven, Counselor in Washington, DC
Nicole Twaalfhoven
Counselor, LCPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for your interest in my profile. I work with clients who need support, a clearer understanding of themselves and their environment, and are ready for change. Clients struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, PTSD, grief, schizophrenia, bipolar, and personality disorders, as well as relationships, career support, aging, and other daily life issues are great candidates for therapy with me. I see individual clients of any age (however under the age of 16, parent/caregiver collaboration is required), families, and couples. I offer a kind, supportive approach, with plenty structure and self-empowerment.
Thank you for your interest in my profile. I work with clients who need support, a clearer understanding of themselves and their environment, and are ready for change. Clients struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, PTSD, grief, schizophrenia, bipolar, and personality disorders, as well as relationships, career support, aging, and other daily life issues are great candidates for therapy with me. I see individual clients of any age (however under the age of 16, parent/caregiver collaboration is required), families, and couples. I offer a kind, supportive approach, with plenty structure and self-empowerment.
(240) 201-2371 View (240) 201-2371
Photo of Katalin Vladar in Washington, DC
Katalin Vladar
MD, CGP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
As a psychiatrist and therapist, I offer both medication management and psychotherapy, fitting best mental health needs. I work with adolescents, adults and couples. I can help with the effects of traumatic experiences, with troubles of everyday living, interpersonal difficulties, sexuality, or infertility/adoption issues. I can help if you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief or with not reaching your goals. I assist couples in resolving painful, conflicted relationship issues. I also provide long-term therapy for self-exploration, and for changing complex personality patterns that make everyday life difficult.
As a psychiatrist and therapist, I offer both medication management and psychotherapy, fitting best mental health needs. I work with adolescents, adults and couples. I can help with the effects of traumatic experiences, with troubles of everyday living, interpersonal difficulties, sexuality, or infertility/adoption issues. I can help if you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief or with not reaching your goals. I assist couples in resolving painful, conflicted relationship issues. I also provide long-term therapy for self-exploration, and for changing complex personality patterns that make everyday life difficult.
(202) 949-3037 View (202) 949-3037
Photo of Amy Oberson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Amy Oberson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20018
Waitlist for new clients
I currently have limited weekday openings. I am licensed in both DC and MD and have experience working with adults, young adults, and adolescents. My counseling approach is warm, empathetic, and person-centered as I am passionate about meeting each client where they are and then collectively work to establish goals to achieve personal healing and growth. I also have experience working with women's health issues, depression, anxiety, grief and trauma. I offer support to adults as they navigate familial changes and life transitions.
I currently have limited weekday openings. I am licensed in both DC and MD and have experience working with adults, young adults, and adolescents. My counseling approach is warm, empathetic, and person-centered as I am passionate about meeting each client where they are and then collectively work to establish goals to achieve personal healing and growth. I also have experience working with women's health issues, depression, anxiety, grief and trauma. I offer support to adults as they navigate familial changes and life transitions.
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Photo of Kate Kelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Kate Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
I also work with clients of all ages with depression, ADHD, self-regulation challenges, distinct learning styles, chronic illness, grief and loss, trauma, and issues of identity.
I’m the founder and director of The Center for Family Well-Being, where we aim -- through our groups, individual therapy, and classes -- to help kids, teens, adults, couples, and families fully realize their potential with confidence, understanding, and an open heart. We're a group of highly-trained holistic therapists who integrate Western psychotherapy with the wisdom of Eastern mindful awareness practice, as well as other mind-body healing methods, for greater awareness, connection, and well-being for our clients -- within themselves and with others in their lives.
I also work with clients of all ages with depression, ADHD, self-regulation challenges, distinct learning styles, chronic illness, grief and loss, trauma, and issues of identity.
I’m the founder and director of The Center for Family Well-Being, where we aim -- through our groups, individual therapy, and classes -- to help kids, teens, adults, couples, and families fully realize their potential with confidence, understanding, and an open heart. We're a group of highly-trained holistic therapists who integrate Western psychotherapy with the wisdom of Eastern mindful awareness practice, as well as other mind-body healing methods, for greater awareness, connection, and well-being for our clients -- within themselves and with others in their lives.
(202) 804-8054 View (202) 804-8054
Photo of Jennifer A. Tollefson, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Jennifer A. Tollefson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works with adults and older adolescents in the Washington, DC area. I tend to work with people who are experiencing relationship difficulties, struggling with symptoms of anxiety or depression, or processing life transitions, trauma, or loss. When working with adolescents, I also hold sessions with parents so that they can better understand their child and be supportive of their growth. I welcome individuals of all backgrounds and identities and strive to be culturally sensitive in my work as a therapist.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works with adults and older adolescents in the Washington, DC area. I tend to work with people who are experiencing relationship difficulties, struggling with symptoms of anxiety or depression, or processing life transitions, trauma, or loss. When working with adolescents, I also hold sessions with parents so that they can better understand their child and be supportive of their growth. I welcome individuals of all backgrounds and identities and strive to be culturally sensitive in my work as a therapist.
(202) 933-1199 View (202) 933-1199
Photo of Megan M Herbets, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Megan M Herbets
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Oftentimes, we lose sight of what we truly want for ourselves. Megan’s goal is to empower you to focus on your own experiences rather than on what others expect of you. Born and raised in the Washington Metro area, Megan understands firsthand how the stress of the DMV lifestyle can affect one’s personal life, work life and home life. Clients describe Megan as being creative, quirky, empathetic and reliable. Megan has seven years of experience helping children and adults work through behavioral and emotional struggles related to depression, PTSD, grief, substance abuse, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, family and sexuality.
Oftentimes, we lose sight of what we truly want for ourselves. Megan’s goal is to empower you to focus on your own experiences rather than on what others expect of you. Born and raised in the Washington Metro area, Megan understands firsthand how the stress of the DMV lifestyle can affect one’s personal life, work life and home life. Clients describe Megan as being creative, quirky, empathetic and reliable. Megan has seven years of experience helping children and adults work through behavioral and emotional struggles related to depression, PTSD, grief, substance abuse, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, family and sexuality.
(202) 743-7505 View (202) 743-7505
Photo of Megan Flood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Megan Flood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
For more than 22 years I have been working with individuals and couples coping with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship struggles, infertility and pregnancy loss, and post-partum anxiety and depression. In a supportive and confidential environment I help my clients develop their strengths to manage more effectively challenging situations, feelings, and relationships.
For more than 22 years I have been working with individuals and couples coping with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship struggles, infertility and pregnancy loss, and post-partum anxiety and depression. In a supportive and confidential environment I help my clients develop their strengths to manage more effectively challenging situations, feelings, and relationships.
(202) 851-8367 View (202) 851-8367
Photo of Vaughn Miller, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Vaughn Miller
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20052  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with individuals coping with a wide range of concerns, including trauma-informed care, cross-cultural counseling, couples counseling, identity development, grief work, mindfulness, and the treatment of mood disorders.
I serve adults (18+) in Maryland, D.C., Virginia, and PSYPACT participating states. I believe that the aim of therapy is to assist clients in better understanding their underlying concerns, like difficulties in relating to others, struggles during life transitions, and experiences of internal and external conflict. Therapy also provides a neutral space for people to explore new and healthy boundaries while working to identify and heal painful emotional experiences, thought patterns, and behaviors.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with individuals coping with a wide range of concerns, including trauma-informed care, cross-cultural counseling, couples counseling, identity development, grief work, mindfulness, and the treatment of mood disorders.
I serve adults (18+) in Maryland, D.C., Virginia, and PSYPACT participating states. I believe that the aim of therapy is to assist clients in better understanding their underlying concerns, like difficulties in relating to others, struggles during life transitions, and experiences of internal and external conflict. Therapy also provides a neutral space for people to explore new and healthy boundaries while working to identify and heal painful emotional experiences, thought patterns, and behaviors.
(240) 200-0140 View (240) 200-0140
Photo of Emily L Rizzo, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Emily L Rizzo
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20017
I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ population and with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. I consistently work with clients regarding depression, anxiety, motivation, trauma, grief, understanding their identity, familial relations, gender identity, sexual identity, sexual/relationship needs, polyamorous relationships, kink, communication in relationships, and self-integration. Extensive background in working with people of color. Assist parents/families through their child's gender transition. Experience in college counseling and high school counseling.
I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ population and with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. I consistently work with clients regarding depression, anxiety, motivation, trauma, grief, understanding their identity, familial relations, gender identity, sexual identity, sexual/relationship needs, polyamorous relationships, kink, communication in relationships, and self-integration. Extensive background in working with people of color. Assist parents/families through their child's gender transition. Experience in college counseling and high school counseling.
(240) 873-1715 View (240) 873-1715
Photo of Global Psychotherapy Center of Bethesda, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Global Psychotherapy Center of Bethesda
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
You may benefit from participating in therapy in many ways: Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals, and values Developing skills for improving your relationships Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures Improving communication and listening skills Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence .
We are a team of professionals with clinical expertise who love working together to provide the appropriate treatment in a compassionate, therapeutic environment. We provide services to the international community. Our goal is to provide high-quality psychotherapy and counseling treatment to individuals, couples, and families. We focus on helping our clients find their inner resources to be able to make changes in their lives in a healthy and meaningful way.
You may benefit from participating in therapy in many ways: Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals, and values Developing skills for improving your relationships Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures Improving communication and listening skills Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence .
We are a team of professionals with clinical expertise who love working together to provide the appropriate treatment in a compassionate, therapeutic environment. We provide services to the international community. Our goal is to provide high-quality psychotherapy and counseling treatment to individuals, couples, and families. We focus on helping our clients find their inner resources to be able to make changes in their lives in a healthy and meaningful way.
(240) 823-5262 View (240) 823-5262
Photo of Dr. Kenya A. Ford, Psychological Associate in Washington, DC
Dr. Kenya A. Ford
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with individuals who need support through issues due to their experience being a part of one or more minority groups (and intersections in between), women’s issues, the experience of being a Black person, LGBTQIA+ matters, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, peer relations, and trauma.
I am passionate about working with all minorities in society, including LGBTQ+ folx. I have experience working through taboo topics, trauma, racial identity and women's issues, and am vocal about my stance on social justice when necessary. I use an integrative approach to therapy to tailor sessions to the specific needs of each of my clients. I am humanistic, person-centered in my approach and facilitate interpersonal relational work. I am always strength based and really enjoy working with Black folx & people of color, but I am willing to work with anyone who is ready to work through current life stressors in non judgmental space.
I enjoy working with individuals who need support through issues due to their experience being a part of one or more minority groups (and intersections in between), women’s issues, the experience of being a Black person, LGBTQIA+ matters, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, peer relations, and trauma.
I am passionate about working with all minorities in society, including LGBTQ+ folx. I have experience working through taboo topics, trauma, racial identity and women's issues, and am vocal about my stance on social justice when necessary. I use an integrative approach to therapy to tailor sessions to the specific needs of each of my clients. I am humanistic, person-centered in my approach and facilitate interpersonal relational work. I am always strength based and really enjoy working with Black folx & people of color, but I am willing to work with anyone who is ready to work through current life stressors in non judgmental space.
(202) 798-2923 View (202) 798-2923
Photo of Pat Webbink, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Pat Webbink
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I have produced 15 Creative Visualization recordings on Mindfulness, Dream & Sleep, Enhancing Relationships, Healing Pain & Illness, Centering & Weight Loss.
With 50 years of clinical experience, a Duke U. Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, I am an empathic, results-oriented psychologist. My specialties: relationships, anxiety, depression, stress reduction, intimacy, trauma & abuse. I work with adults, adolescents, & children in individual, couple, family & group therapy. I counsel in Spanish, French & Japanese. I've authored 4 books on intimacy & relationships & hold FREE monthly Zoom workshops on Mindfulness, Creative Movement & Relationships using guided imagery & music. My licensed associates and I serve MD, D.C. & VA. My interactive audio flyer is available at AacCounseling.com. Call me.
I have produced 15 Creative Visualization recordings on Mindfulness, Dream & Sleep, Enhancing Relationships, Healing Pain & Illness, Centering & Weight Loss.
With 50 years of clinical experience, a Duke U. Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, I am an empathic, results-oriented psychologist. My specialties: relationships, anxiety, depression, stress reduction, intimacy, trauma & abuse. I work with adults, adolescents, & children in individual, couple, family & group therapy. I counsel in Spanish, French & Japanese. I've authored 4 books on intimacy & relationships & hold FREE monthly Zoom workshops on Mindfulness, Creative Movement & Relationships using guided imagery & music. My licensed associates and I serve MD, D.C. & VA. My interactive audio flyer is available at AacCounseling.com. Call me.
(240) 435-4843 View (240) 435-4843
Photo of Jennifer Anne Babcock, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Jennifer Anne Babcock
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
I practice care through psychotherapy with children, adolescents and adults. I help patients address a range of issues, including: depression, anxiety, ADD and ADHD, trauma, perinatal and postnatal issues, grief, difficulties managing anger, pervasive developmental disorders, low self-esteem, family conflicts, academic difficulties, peer conflict, and chronic medical illness. I seek to understand the unique needs each of my clients within the context of their own ethnic, cultural, and racial identity. I collaborate regularly with parents when treating children.
I practice care through psychotherapy with children, adolescents and adults. I help patients address a range of issues, including: depression, anxiety, ADD and ADHD, trauma, perinatal and postnatal issues, grief, difficulties managing anger, pervasive developmental disorders, low self-esteem, family conflicts, academic difficulties, peer conflict, and chronic medical illness. I seek to understand the unique needs each of my clients within the context of their own ethnic, cultural, and racial identity. I collaborate regularly with parents when treating children.
(540) 987-0983 View (540) 987-0983
Photo of Maryland Neuropsychological Services, LLC, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Maryland Neuropsychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20500
Services provided by a pediatric neuropsychologist who is also a licensed clinical psychologist, in the state of Maryland. Therapy is provided to individuals across the lifespan (children and adults). Client issues we can help with includes grief, stress management, anxiety, depression, life issues, compulsions and obsessions, and an umbrella of sexual issues (including voyeurism, exhibitionism, pedophilia, sexuality and issues having sex, and more), neurodevelopmental disorders (autism/ADHD), and trauma. Founder: Dr. Sarah Gardner, PsyD, NCC
Services provided by a pediatric neuropsychologist who is also a licensed clinical psychologist, in the state of Maryland. Therapy is provided to individuals across the lifespan (children and adults). Client issues we can help with includes grief, stress management, anxiety, depression, life issues, compulsions and obsessions, and an umbrella of sexual issues (including voyeurism, exhibitionism, pedophilia, sexuality and issues having sex, and more), neurodevelopmental disorders (autism/ADHD), and trauma. Founder: Dr. Sarah Gardner, PsyD, NCC
(410) 834-4913 View (410) 834-4913
Photo of Darby Integrative Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Darby Integrative Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCADAS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011
Our specialties include grief and loss, addictions, trauma, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
Currently accepting new clients at Darby Integrative Counseling. We offer in-person and/or video sessions to accommodate your needs. We welcome you to the next courageous step on your journey walking through life's challenges. Are you struggling with fear, grief, sadness, anxiety, or stress? Have anger, shame or guilt been preventing you from the joys of life? Do your relationships at home or work feel strained? Let us awaken your best self and find solutions for the problems you face on your path to wellness.
Our specialties include grief and loss, addictions, trauma, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
Currently accepting new clients at Darby Integrative Counseling. We offer in-person and/or video sessions to accommodate your needs. We welcome you to the next courageous step on your journey walking through life's challenges. Are you struggling with fear, grief, sadness, anxiety, or stress? Have anger, shame or guilt been preventing you from the joys of life? Do your relationships at home or work feel strained? Let us awaken your best self and find solutions for the problems you face on your path to wellness.
(301) 945-7306 View (301) 945-7306
Photo of Axis Healthcare Group in Washington, DC
Axis Healthcare Group
PA-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
2020 has been a tough year as we face this challenging time in our history. We’ve had to grapple with the longevity of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the uncertainty it brings. Challenges, which are further confounded by a complicated and divisive political climate make this a time of grief, trauma, loss, and difficult transitions for many. Physical distancing measures, forced adoption of new technology, and disruption of our routines, though necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19, bring additional struggles with preventing isolation, remaining engaged with social supports, and coping with stress and anxiety. Please talk with a provider if you are finding yourself overwhelmed or if you are experiencing changes in sleeping, eating, or irritability, whether or not your challenges can be explained by current situations We have immediate openings for therapy and medication management appointments.
2020 has been a tough year as we face this challenging time in our history. We’ve had to grapple with the longevity of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the uncertainty it brings. Challenges, which are further confounded by a complicated and divisive political climate make this a time of grief, trauma, loss, and difficult transitions for many. Physical distancing measures, forced adoption of new technology, and disruption of our routines, though necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19, bring additional struggles with preventing isolation, remaining engaged with social supports, and coping with stress and anxiety. Please talk with a provider if you are finding yourself overwhelmed or if you are experiencing changes in sleeping, eating, or irritability, whether or not your challenges can be explained by current situations We have immediate openings for therapy and medication management appointments.
(301) 945-7782 View (301) 945-7782
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.