Photo of Ria Ruane, All Things New Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fort Myers, FL
Ria Ruane, All Things New Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, SCD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33901
She is experienced in relationship issues, trauma, addictions, anxiety, depression, grief & loss, parenting, memory care and more.
I am sorry that you are hurting. Everyone hurts sometimes, but now things have gotten too much for you to sort out on your own. I am here to serve as a genuine, empathic, unbiased and supportive therapist who can provide non-judgmental guidance. I can help you create changes that lead to a better life for you & your loved ones. When is the last time you considered THE DESIRES OF YOUR HEART? I help clients recognize blessings in hard times & live with purpose and zest. See Video of Ria's Work helping others: http://blog.thegoodmangroup.com/spiritual-care
She is experienced in relationship issues, trauma, addictions, anxiety, depression, grief & loss, parenting, memory care and more.
I am sorry that you are hurting. Everyone hurts sometimes, but now things have gotten too much for you to sort out on your own. I am here to serve as a genuine, empathic, unbiased and supportive therapist who can provide non-judgmental guidance. I can help you create changes that lead to a better life for you & your loved ones. When is the last time you considered THE DESIRES OF YOUR HEART? I help clients recognize blessings in hard times & live with purpose and zest. See Video of Ria's Work helping others: http://blog.thegoodmangroup.com/spiritual-care
(239) 946-6320 View (239) 946-6320
Photo of Carolina Ferrer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Myers, FL
Carolina Ferrer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, QS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33913
Much of my professional experience includes a vast range of ages including children, adolescents, young adults, and seniors. I value the importance community connections by reducing the stigma of mental health in organizations as well as stress reduction techniques. I enjoy working with couples, and families who are struggling in communication. I specialize with overcoming life difficulties including trauma, grief and loss, relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, coping skills, self-esteem, infertility, family conflict and unexpected birthing outcomes. As well as overcoming perinatal/ maternal post-partum disorders.
Much of my professional experience includes a vast range of ages including children, adolescents, young adults, and seniors. I value the importance community connections by reducing the stigma of mental health in organizations as well as stress reduction techniques. I enjoy working with couples, and families who are struggling in communication. I specialize with overcoming life difficulties including trauma, grief and loss, relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, coping skills, self-esteem, infertility, family conflict and unexpected birthing outcomes. As well as overcoming perinatal/ maternal post-partum disorders.
(239) 323-6072 View (239) 323-6072
Photo of Dr. Meyer's Remote Therapy Services, Counselor in Fort Myers, FL
Dr. Meyer's Remote Therapy Services
Counselor, LMHC, EdD
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33967  (Online Only)
My mission is this: To give people hope and coping skills in challenging times and times of transition. I am trained in several modalities, and Grief Counseling, Solution Focused Therapy, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy are my specialties. I tailor my therapy to meet the individual needs of each of my clients. I have experience counseling all ages- and I welcome clients from from six years to seniors! I have a passion for working with educators because I have walked in the shoes of a teacher, school counselor and school administrator and I understand the current challenges you are facing.
My mission is this: To give people hope and coping skills in challenging times and times of transition. I am trained in several modalities, and Grief Counseling, Solution Focused Therapy, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy are my specialties. I tailor my therapy to meet the individual needs of each of my clients. I have experience counseling all ages- and I welcome clients from from six years to seniors! I have a passion for working with educators because I have walked in the shoes of a teacher, school counselor and school administrator and I understand the current challenges you are facing.
(239) 933-5081 View (239) 933-5081
Photo of Paula M Harper, Counselor in Fort Myers, FL
Paula M Harper
Counselor, MA, RN, LMHC, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33908
I am a compassionate and caring counselor who utilizes a variety of approaches to assist clients through difficult life transitions, parents struggling with addicted children, depression, complex grief and loss, anxiety, sex addiction, crisis and the impact of pornography and infidelity on partners of addicts. I began my career as an Oncology Nurse over 20 years ago. I received my MA from Argosy University - Sarasota in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have completed my training in sex addiction and I am an CSAT Associate Sex Addiction Therapist. I work with both addicts and partners affected by this behavior & consequences.
I am a compassionate and caring counselor who utilizes a variety of approaches to assist clients through difficult life transitions, parents struggling with addicted children, depression, complex grief and loss, anxiety, sex addiction, crisis and the impact of pornography and infidelity on partners of addicts. I began my career as an Oncology Nurse over 20 years ago. I received my MA from Argosy University - Sarasota in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have completed my training in sex addiction and I am an CSAT Associate Sex Addiction Therapist. I work with both addicts and partners affected by this behavior & consequences.
(239) 307-0914 View (239) 307-0914
Photo of Brandi Velasquez Nash, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Fort Myers, FL
Brandi Velasquez Nash
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, CAGCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33907  (Online Only)
Although my specialty is grief and loss, I address a wide variety of concerns, including emotional regulation, managing anxiety and depression, healing from childhood trauma, and increasing resilience.
My goal as a therapist is to support you during difficult life transitions. These transitions may include becoming a parent, starting or ending a marriage, leaving home for the first time, or untying yourself from a religious identity that was once important to you. Transitions and changes may evoke a sense of grief and loss, regardless if it's positive, negative, or neutral. As a Certified Advanced Grief Counseling Specialist, I can help you with the difficult emotions that are associated with these changes. Our sessions would focus on finding the root of your symptoms, processing your grief, and starting your healing journey.
Although my specialty is grief and loss, I address a wide variety of concerns, including emotional regulation, managing anxiety and depression, healing from childhood trauma, and increasing resilience.
My goal as a therapist is to support you during difficult life transitions. These transitions may include becoming a parent, starting or ending a marriage, leaving home for the first time, or untying yourself from a religious identity that was once important to you. Transitions and changes may evoke a sense of grief and loss, regardless if it's positive, negative, or neutral. As a Certified Advanced Grief Counseling Specialist, I can help you with the difficult emotions that are associated with these changes. Our sessions would focus on finding the root of your symptoms, processing your grief, and starting your healing journey.
(904) 478-8815 View (904) 478-8815
Photo of Amanda Nicole Roller, Pre-Licensed Professional in Fort Myers, FL
Amanda Nicole Roller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33919
($75 sessions available NOW!) Do you feel lost? Have you been struggling to find yourself, or to figure out who you are? Are you looking for someone to talk to about all of those fears, insecurities, and worries that plague you? Maybe this pain stems from a past relationship, or from an inability to balance all the complex aspects of your life. Maybe you’ve experienced loss, heartbreak, or change. Imagine being able to take back control of your life, and feeling comfortable in your own skin again. What if you could do that? Here’s the good news – you CAN!
($75 sessions available NOW!) Do you feel lost? Have you been struggling to find yourself, or to figure out who you are? Are you looking for someone to talk to about all of those fears, insecurities, and worries that plague you? Maybe this pain stems from a past relationship, or from an inability to balance all the complex aspects of your life. Maybe you’ve experienced loss, heartbreak, or change. Imagine being able to take back control of your life, and feeling comfortable in your own skin again. What if you could do that? Here’s the good news – you CAN!
(239) 323-9505 View (239) 323-9505
Photo of Christopher Santini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Myers, FL
Christopher Santini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33919  (Online Only)
My specialties include: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, bereavement, couples counseling and marital/family conflict, as well as unique training and insight into issues affecting the LGBTQ community.
As a clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience, I have had the privilege of working with culturally, economically and ethnically diverse individuals, families, couples and groups from all walks of life. I have practiced domestically and internationally including, NYC, California and most recently in Dublin, Ireland. (Please note that I am only taking tele-therapy clients and use a HIPPA approved site. I have found using tele-therapy to be very convenient for clients with challenging schedules).
My specialties include: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, bereavement, couples counseling and marital/family conflict, as well as unique training and insight into issues affecting the LGBTQ community.
As a clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience, I have had the privilege of working with culturally, economically and ethnically diverse individuals, families, couples and groups from all walks of life. I have practiced domestically and internationally including, NYC, California and most recently in Dublin, Ireland. (Please note that I am only taking tele-therapy clients and use a HIPPA approved site. I have found using tele-therapy to be very convenient for clients with challenging schedules).
(239) 758-0352 View (239) 758-0352
Photo of Courtney A. Faunce, Counselor in Fort Myers, FL
Courtney A. Faunce
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33907
Have you been in search of new ways to manage with life? Stressed, isolated, or having difficulty living your life to the fullest? Struggling with how you see yourself, body image, or your relationship with food? Feeling a deep sense of loss after a traumatic experience? It may be difficult to talk about and we get stuck wishing things were just different. We might be looking for happiness through money, relationships, food, addictions only to reach the point of hopelessness. Finding peace, empowerment, and healing does not have to be a struggle experienced alone.
Have you been in search of new ways to manage with life? Stressed, isolated, or having difficulty living your life to the fullest? Struggling with how you see yourself, body image, or your relationship with food? Feeling a deep sense of loss after a traumatic experience? It may be difficult to talk about and we get stuck wishing things were just different. We might be looking for happiness through money, relationships, food, addictions only to reach the point of hopelessness. Finding peace, empowerment, and healing does not have to be a struggle experienced alone.
(239) 842-7237 View (239) 842-7237
Photo of Elite DNA Behavioral Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Myers, FL
Elite DNA Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33916
If you or anyone you know is living with depression, anxiety, anger issues, ADHD, grief, sleep issues, Autism spectrum disorders, parenting issues, behavior problems, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress, stress management issues or mental health issues, we can help.
Our goal is to make therapy services available to everyone in Southwest Florida who needs it, in an affordable and convenient way. We serve adults, children, individuals and families who are facing a variety of mental health issues. We believe everyone deserves care regardless of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, economic situation or anything else. Your care plan will be tailored exactly to your needs. Whether you need talk therapy, medication management, Applied Behavior Analysis, Occupational Therapy or Speech, we are here for you.
If you or anyone you know is living with depression, anxiety, anger issues, ADHD, grief, sleep issues, Autism spectrum disorders, parenting issues, behavior problems, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress, stress management issues or mental health issues, we can help.
Our goal is to make therapy services available to everyone in Southwest Florida who needs it, in an affordable and convenient way. We serve adults, children, individuals and families who are facing a variety of mental health issues. We believe everyone deserves care regardless of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, economic situation or anything else. Your care plan will be tailored exactly to your needs. Whether you need talk therapy, medication management, Applied Behavior Analysis, Occupational Therapy or Speech, we are here for you.
(833) 362-7935 View (833) 362-7935
Photo of Rosy Ramirez, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Fort Myers, FL
Rosy Ramirez
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33919
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. Life itself sometimes can be a roller coaster. While for many people might bring joy and excitement, for many others can be great challenge to go through periods of grief, distress, or stress. If you are not sure that what you are going through is normal, reach out... I can help you navigate through this journey in a mindful way and help you heal anything that burdens you and is causing any distress.
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. Life itself sometimes can be a roller coaster. While for many people might bring joy and excitement, for many others can be great challenge to go through periods of grief, distress, or stress. If you are not sure that what you are going through is normal, reach out... I can help you navigate through this journey in a mindful way and help you heal anything that burdens you and is causing any distress.
(239) 326-0585 View (239) 326-0585
Photo of SWFL Counseling, LLC in Fort Myers, FL
SWFL Counseling, LLC
LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33919
Throughout our lifespan, we will be faced with transitions. Children experiences changes within the family as well as school, friends, and daily routine. Then there’s puberty, which brings about a whole new set of changes in a teenager. Early adulthood is full of change, as well as a search for meaning and purpose. Marriage, divorce, birth of children, death of parents, middle age, retirement, and on and on! Sometimes we can move through these transitions smoothly; however, other times it doesn’t go quite as well.
Throughout our lifespan, we will be faced with transitions. Children experiences changes within the family as well as school, friends, and daily routine. Then there’s puberty, which brings about a whole new set of changes in a teenager. Early adulthood is full of change, as well as a search for meaning and purpose. Marriage, divorce, birth of children, death of parents, middle age, retirement, and on and on! Sometimes we can move through these transitions smoothly; however, other times it doesn’t go quite as well.
(239) 932-6636 View (239) 932-6636
Photo of Vicki Rodriguez, Psychologist in Fort Myers, FL
Vicki Rodriguez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33905  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Dr. Vicki Rodriguez (She/Her/Ella) and I want to say congratulations on taking the first step toward therapy! I am a licensed psychologist in the state of Florida specializing in psychological wellness surrounding trauma, reproductive issues, infertility, perinatal mental health, postpartum concerns, difficult birthing experiences, miscarriage, pregnancy and neonatal loss, pregnancy termination for any reason, transition to parenting, and the impact of fertility/pregnancy/loss on relationships.
Hello! My name is Dr. Vicki Rodriguez (She/Her/Ella) and I want to say congratulations on taking the first step toward therapy! I am a licensed psychologist in the state of Florida specializing in psychological wellness surrounding trauma, reproductive issues, infertility, perinatal mental health, postpartum concerns, difficult birthing experiences, miscarriage, pregnancy and neonatal loss, pregnancy termination for any reason, transition to parenting, and the impact of fertility/pregnancy/loss on relationships.
(239) 932-5967 View (239) 932-5967
Photo of Pooja Shastri, Psychologist in Fort Myers, FL
Pooja Shastri
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33912
), aging, grief and more.
Every individual will come across challenges and situations that may feel overwhelming in life. The hardest step can be walking through that door; once you make that first step, you will not be alone in your quest towards finding enjoyment through purpose and meaning in everyday life. As a psychologist, my primary goal is to provide a safe space within the therapeutic relationship to explore and gain awareness of current challenges, past behavioral patterns, and coping skills.
), aging, grief and more.
Every individual will come across challenges and situations that may feel overwhelming in life. The hardest step can be walking through that door; once you make that first step, you will not be alone in your quest towards finding enjoyment through purpose and meaning in everyday life. As a psychologist, my primary goal is to provide a safe space within the therapeutic relationship to explore and gain awareness of current challenges, past behavioral patterns, and coping skills.
(239) 235-3518 View (239) 235-3518
Photo of David Essel Enterprises, Inc. in Fort Myers, FL
David Essel Enterprises, Inc.
MS, OM
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33907
Life is Stressful. Change is Here! For 40 years, I have helped clients from all over the world, to learn how to deal with the stress of life: grief recovery, relationships, self esteem, permanent alcohol/ addiction recovery, emotional confusion, finances, relationships, personal identity, career choices, attitude, the breaking of family cycles, codependency and more. "One of the top Life Counselors/Life Coaches in the USA. " Lifetime Television. "The top relationship counselor." Marriage.com Join us at Davidessel.com. Work/Life balance, Emotional Regulation, Permanent Alcohol Recovery, Divorce prevention, David is with you!
Life is Stressful. Change is Here! For 40 years, I have helped clients from all over the world, to learn how to deal with the stress of life: grief recovery, relationships, self esteem, permanent alcohol/ addiction recovery, emotional confusion, finances, relationships, personal identity, career choices, attitude, the breaking of family cycles, codependency and more. "One of the top Life Counselors/Life Coaches in the USA. " Lifetime Television. "The top relationship counselor." Marriage.com Join us at Davidessel.com. Work/Life balance, Emotional Regulation, Permanent Alcohol Recovery, Divorce prevention, David is with you!
(941) 876-5121 View (941) 876-5121
Photo of Mandala Counseling Services, Counselor in Fort Myers, FL
Mandala Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33919
Teens/ High Risk, Self harm, depression, sexual abuse, physical abuse, trauma, PTSD, sexual reactivity in children, family counseling after divorce or separation, blended family issues, sexual dysfunction/compulsions, LGBTQ stressors, panic disorders/anxiety, grief, Personality Disorders, EMDR available.
I have always wanted to help people. I’ve been able to do that in a variety of ways over the years. Working in domestic violence shelters, agencies that assist child sexual abuse survivors, in-home intensive substance abuse counseling...I’m privileged to have been able to help so many. It truly makes me happy. Now, I have my own practice after all of these years and I couldn’t be more excited to continue helping people; just in a much more enjoyable and comfortable setting. The therapists that work at Mandala are personally hired by me, and they are all wonderful and caring! You’re in great hands!
Teens/ High Risk, Self harm, depression, sexual abuse, physical abuse, trauma, PTSD, sexual reactivity in children, family counseling after divorce or separation, blended family issues, sexual dysfunction/compulsions, LGBTQ stressors, panic disorders/anxiety, grief, Personality Disorders, EMDR available.
I have always wanted to help people. I’ve been able to do that in a variety of ways over the years. Working in domestic violence shelters, agencies that assist child sexual abuse survivors, in-home intensive substance abuse counseling...I’m privileged to have been able to help so many. It truly makes me happy. Now, I have my own practice after all of these years and I couldn’t be more excited to continue helping people; just in a much more enjoyable and comfortable setting. The therapists that work at Mandala are personally hired by me, and they are all wonderful and caring! You’re in great hands!
(239) 360-1983 View (239) 360-1983
Photo of Laura Streyffeler, Counselor in Fort Myers, FL
Laura Streyffeler
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, BCETS, CCDVC, CCFC
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33901
Therapy is not just for "crazy" people. On the contrary, therapy is often for healthy people who want to live healthier lives. Therapy is for people who are dealing with a life situation, family or relationship issue that they wish to discuss and/or process with a professional who can help him or her sort out their thoughts, feelings and options in a safe and non-judgmental atmosphere. If you are struggling with a life transition a family and/or relationship problem, grief and loss related issue, addiction(self or family member), employment changes or losses,etc... I can help.
Therapy is not just for "crazy" people. On the contrary, therapy is often for healthy people who want to live healthier lives. Therapy is for people who are dealing with a life situation, family or relationship issue that they wish to discuss and/or process with a professional who can help him or her sort out their thoughts, feelings and options in a safe and non-judgmental atmosphere. If you are struggling with a life transition a family and/or relationship problem, grief and loss related issue, addiction(self or family member), employment changes or losses,etc... I can help.
(239) 244-3888 View (239) 244-3888
Photo of Melanie Fisher, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Fort Myers, FL
Melanie Fisher
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, MPH, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33905  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, and family conflict.
As a therapist, my mission is to create a safe and inclusive space where clients feel empowered to share their stories, explore their experiences, build on their strengths, and cultivate resilience.
I specialize in working with individuals facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, and family conflict.
As a therapist, my mission is to create a safe and inclusive space where clients feel empowered to share their stories, explore their experiences, build on their strengths, and cultivate resilience.
(239) 510-8728 View (239) 510-8728
Photo of A Peaceful Mind Counseling Group, Counselor in Fort Myers, FL
A Peaceful Mind Counseling Group
Counselor, LMHC, CAP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33907
Effectively helping people overcome anxiety, depression, grief/loss, PTSD or relationship challenges is our passion and what we do. These situations can keep you from living your best life. Working with a specialist makes all the difference in the results you achieve. Our initial phone consultation is intended to make sure that we have the expertise to help with your specific needs. Whether you are seeking individual therapy or help with your relationship, you will only work with a specialist trained in this area of practice. We will never accept to work with someone that we are not completely confident we can help.
Effectively helping people overcome anxiety, depression, grief/loss, PTSD or relationship challenges is our passion and what we do. These situations can keep you from living your best life. Working with a specialist makes all the difference in the results you achieve. Our initial phone consultation is intended to make sure that we have the expertise to help with your specific needs. Whether you are seeking individual therapy or help with your relationship, you will only work with a specialist trained in this area of practice. We will never accept to work with someone that we are not completely confident we can help.
(239) 294-8726 View (239) 294-8726
Photo of Diana M Salazar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Myers, FL
Diana M Salazar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33913
My areas of specialty are emotional and behavioral challenges, parenting, difficulty adjusting to new life situations, families experiencing divorce and co-parenting, relational difficulties, grief and loss, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, and mood disorders such as but not limited to depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders.
I provide individual, couple's and family therapy to children, adolescents, adults and families experiencing emotional, behavioral, and/or social difficulties. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist with more than ten years of experience. I co-founded Sunshine State Counseling Center. In my practice, I empower individuals to build and develop their inner strengths by providing compassionate, ethical and professional therapeutic services.
My areas of specialty are emotional and behavioral challenges, parenting, difficulty adjusting to new life situations, families experiencing divorce and co-parenting, relational difficulties, grief and loss, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, and mood disorders such as but not limited to depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders.
I provide individual, couple's and family therapy to children, adolescents, adults and families experiencing emotional, behavioral, and/or social difficulties. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist with more than ten years of experience. I co-founded Sunshine State Counseling Center. In my practice, I empower individuals to build and develop their inner strengths by providing compassionate, ethical and professional therapeutic services.
(239) 208-0959 View (239) 208-0959
Photo of Mary Olitzky, Counselor in Fort Myers, FL
Mary Olitzky
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33905
Life can be difficult! Being here you have taken the first and most important step towards healing. My expertise is in working with clients with depression/anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, and Women’s issues. In addition, I have provided counseling for clients for weight loss to help them be more successful following Bariatric surgery. I am a compassionate and caring therapist who is experienced in working with many cultures, ethnicities and ages.
Life can be difficult! Being here you have taken the first and most important step towards healing. My expertise is in working with clients with depression/anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, and Women’s issues. In addition, I have provided counseling for clients for weight loss to help them be more successful following Bariatric surgery. I am a compassionate and caring therapist who is experienced in working with many cultures, ethnicities and ages.
(727) 853-6579 View (727) 853-6579
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.