Photo of Michelle McEwen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
Michelle McEwen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30342  (Online Only)
I look forward to working alongside you on your personal goals whether it be coping better with anxiety or depression, setting better boundaries with your friends and family, or supporting along your grief journey. I have experience in several areas including: foster children, foster/adoptive parents, sexual assault survivors, medically fragile children and their caregivers, and individuals at end of life.
I look forward to working alongside you on your personal goals whether it be coping better with anxiety or depression, setting better boundaries with your friends and family, or supporting along your grief journey. I have experience in several areas including: foster children, foster/adoptive parents, sexual assault survivors, medically fragile children and their caregivers, and individuals at end of life.
(404) 882-5828 View (404) 882-5828
Photo of Katuschka Rakovec, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
Katuschka Rakovec
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
There are few things braver than acknowledging when we need help and can no longer do life on our own. As a therapist, I count it my highest privilege to be a part of your story, to come alongside you in the midst of pain, hurt, confusion, loss, or tension, and to help you make sense of it all. I have five key concepts that motivate me as a therapist: story, space, acknowledgement, celebration, and growth. Stories matter. Including yours. And your story isn’t finished yet. Every time we meet, I want you to know and experience that this is your space, a space where you are free and safe to bring any and all of who you are.
There are few things braver than acknowledging when we need help and can no longer do life on our own. As a therapist, I count it my highest privilege to be a part of your story, to come alongside you in the midst of pain, hurt, confusion, loss, or tension, and to help you make sense of it all. I have five key concepts that motivate me as a therapist: story, space, acknowledgement, celebration, and growth. Stories matter. Including yours. And your story isn’t finished yet. Every time we meet, I want you to know and experience that this is your space, a space where you are free and safe to bring any and all of who you are.
(678) 932-0786 View (678) 932-0786
Photo of Counseling Services of Atlanta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Counseling Services of Atlanta
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30350
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, Smyrna, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, Smyrna, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
(678) 771-6943 View (678) 771-6943
Photo of One Love Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional in Sandy Springs, GA
One Love Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MDiv, MFT S/T
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Are you struggling with life transitions – Motherhood, Marriage, Blended Families or Divorce, or Grief? Challenging Life transitions can cause disappointment and frustration. Everyone deserves support during life transitions. Learning new communication strategies, healthy boundaries and coping skills can help improve difficult life transitions. about new realities and depression over unexpected changes. Gain peace and acceptance associated with life transitions. When you and your family gain understanding and acceptance in your relationship, you can overcome the difficulties associated with life transitions.
Are you struggling with life transitions – Motherhood, Marriage, Blended Families or Divorce, or Grief? Challenging Life transitions can cause disappointment and frustration. Everyone deserves support during life transitions. Learning new communication strategies, healthy boundaries and coping skills can help improve difficult life transitions. about new realities and depression over unexpected changes. Gain peace and acceptance associated with life transitions. When you and your family gain understanding and acceptance in your relationship, you can overcome the difficulties associated with life transitions.
(678) 501-7622 View (678) 501-7622
Photo of Kimberly Odom, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Kimberly Odom
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328  (Online Only)
I have experience working with adolescents, adults, trauma, grief and loss, crisis intervention, and women's issues just to name a few of the populations that I have worked with in the past.
My name is Kimberly Odom and I would like to welcome you to the world of therapy! With over 13 years experience in therapy, I'm excited about tailoring your journey just for you! I use a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach to help you become your best self!
I have experience working with adolescents, adults, trauma, grief and loss, crisis intervention, and women's issues just to name a few of the populations that I have worked with in the past.
My name is Kimberly Odom and I would like to welcome you to the world of therapy! With over 13 years experience in therapy, I'm excited about tailoring your journey just for you! I use a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach to help you become your best self!
(770) 999-0976 View (770) 999-0976
Photo of Jennifer Hopkins-Naylor, Psychologist in Sandy Springs, GA
Jennifer Hopkins-Naylor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I work with those coping with grief/loss, sexual trauma, anxiety, parenting challenges, blended families, and divorce adjustment.
Sometimes making the first phone call can be intimidating, but I listen without judgment or criticism and ensure a welcoming relaxed style that helps to minimize fear and support your goals. In therapy, I help individuals explore the specific actions, thoughts, and feelings that may contribute to repeating patterns that hinder personal growth, and emphasize existing strengths to develop specific workable goals. When appropriate, I believe in including the family system in therapy to improve relationships. I am also willing to consult with school professionals, pediatricians, psychiatrists, and guardians ad litem to improve care.
I work with those coping with grief/loss, sexual trauma, anxiety, parenting challenges, blended families, and divorce adjustment.
Sometimes making the first phone call can be intimidating, but I listen without judgment or criticism and ensure a welcoming relaxed style that helps to minimize fear and support your goals. In therapy, I help individuals explore the specific actions, thoughts, and feelings that may contribute to repeating patterns that hinder personal growth, and emphasize existing strengths to develop specific workable goals. When appropriate, I believe in including the family system in therapy to improve relationships. I am also willing to consult with school professionals, pediatricians, psychiatrists, and guardians ad litem to improve care.
(404) 994-2566 View (404) 994-2566
Photo of Denisa Millette, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Denisa Millette
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CPCS, CCTP, DBT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Using clinical assessment to create individual treatment plans tailored to client needs and addressing multiple ongoing issues (anxiety, ADHD, depression, low self-esteem, PTSD, grief, chronic pain, etc.
My calling is to serve children and adults who deal with a variety of emotional and behavioral imbalances due to psychological trauma or other stressors. As a trauma and DBT-certified therapist, I work with my clients toward the restoration of their emotional wellness by integrating aspects of trauma-focused cognitive behavioral (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapies (DBT), as well as ART therapy, play therapy, and mind-body practices. I also provide court-ordered reunification therapy, group therapy, and clinical diagnostic evaluations and assessments. Currently offering FREE clinical assessment for self-pay therapy clients.
Using clinical assessment to create individual treatment plans tailored to client needs and addressing multiple ongoing issues (anxiety, ADHD, depression, low self-esteem, PTSD, grief, chronic pain, etc.
My calling is to serve children and adults who deal with a variety of emotional and behavioral imbalances due to psychological trauma or other stressors. As a trauma and DBT-certified therapist, I work with my clients toward the restoration of their emotional wellness by integrating aspects of trauma-focused cognitive behavioral (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapies (DBT), as well as ART therapy, play therapy, and mind-body practices. I also provide court-ordered reunification therapy, group therapy, and clinical diagnostic evaluations and assessments. Currently offering FREE clinical assessment for self-pay therapy clients.
(470) 635-5323 View (470) 635-5323
Photo of Theresa M Westfall, Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Theresa M Westfall
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30338
I am passionate about working in areas of trauma, loss, behavioral challenges, emotional regulation, communication, addictions, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and childhood and adolescent challenges.
Are you feeling disconnected from the people around you? Frustrated with problematic behaviors that you cannot seem to change? Tired of being paralyzed and held back by anxiety? Counseling can be an opportunity to enrich your life, gain deeper personal understanding, and make meaningful changes. My therapeutic style is warm, supportive, and collaborative. I can work with you to reach your goals in a way that empowers and instills hope. Together we can find the tools that work best for your life, so that you can continue to experience progress and fulfillment long after our counseling relationship has come to a close.
I am passionate about working in areas of trauma, loss, behavioral challenges, emotional regulation, communication, addictions, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and childhood and adolescent challenges.
Are you feeling disconnected from the people around you? Frustrated with problematic behaviors that you cannot seem to change? Tired of being paralyzed and held back by anxiety? Counseling can be an opportunity to enrich your life, gain deeper personal understanding, and make meaningful changes. My therapeutic style is warm, supportive, and collaborative. I can work with you to reach your goals in a way that empowers and instills hope. Together we can find the tools that work best for your life, so that you can continue to experience progress and fulfillment long after our counseling relationship has come to a close.
(770) 464-5662 View (770) 464-5662
Photo of Perimeter Therapy Associates, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
Perimeter Therapy Associates, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
We use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Family Systems, Play Therapy, Attachment Theory,Mind/Body Techniques, and DBT to address the following: Depression/Post-Partum Depression Anxiety,Life Changes and Adjustments,Premarital Counseling, Relationship Issues,Parenting Issues, ADHD, Assertiveness Skills,Workplace Stress,Problem Solving, Communication, Coping Skills,Anger Management,Grief and Loss, Medical Issues.
Perimeter Therapy Associates provides psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families experiencing life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, post partum depression, anxiety, grief, parenting concerns and other mental health issues. Our approach to therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each client, facilitating positive change in a warm and caring environment. We assist clients in making fundamental changes in the way they think and act thereby improving their ability to solve problems, cope and communicate effectively. We also provide supervision for LAPC's working toward LPC licensure.
We use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Family Systems, Play Therapy, Attachment Theory,Mind/Body Techniques, and DBT to address the following: Depression/Post-Partum Depression Anxiety,Life Changes and Adjustments,Premarital Counseling, Relationship Issues,Parenting Issues, ADHD, Assertiveness Skills,Workplace Stress,Problem Solving, Communication, Coping Skills,Anger Management,Grief and Loss, Medical Issues.
Perimeter Therapy Associates provides psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families experiencing life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, post partum depression, anxiety, grief, parenting concerns and other mental health issues. Our approach to therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each client, facilitating positive change in a warm and caring environment. We assist clients in making fundamental changes in the way they think and act thereby improving their ability to solve problems, cope and communicate effectively. We also provide supervision for LAPC's working toward LPC licensure.
(678) 824-2031 View (678) 824-2031
Photo of Elizabeth Coe, Pre-Licensed Professional in Sandy Springs, GA
Elizabeth Coe
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
I enjoy working with children and adolescents, aged 3- 18 years old suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, and self-esteem concerns.
I believe in creating a nurturing, trustworthy environment to enhance my ability to truly see and hear my clients. My goal is to provide a judgment-free and safe space for my clients to openly share their troubles while connecting on a deeper level to evoke positive change in their circumstances. My approach to therapy is strength-based and client-centered. I strive to meet my client’s where they are and help support them in their therapeutic journey.
I enjoy working with children and adolescents, aged 3- 18 years old suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, and self-esteem concerns.
I believe in creating a nurturing, trustworthy environment to enhance my ability to truly see and hear my clients. My goal is to provide a judgment-free and safe space for my clients to openly share their troubles while connecting on a deeper level to evoke positive change in their circumstances. My approach to therapy is strength-based and client-centered. I strive to meet my client’s where they are and help support them in their therapeutic journey.
(404) 689-2505 View (404) 689-2505
Photo of Dr. Erinisha L. Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Dr. Erinisha L. Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30350  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stressed, uncertain, anxious, and overwhelmed by daily stressors or life transitions? Maybe you are experiencing emotional stressors, social deficits, or connection/relationship difficulties? My goal as a therapist is to help you develop a creative plan to learn and implement coping skills to overcome these struggles. I treat clients from all walks of life and of all ages. I treat a wide range of issues including anxiety, stress, depression, grief, anger, work or school issues, relationship issues, trauma, parenting, behavioral issues, and marital issues including divorce.
Are you feeling stressed, uncertain, anxious, and overwhelmed by daily stressors or life transitions? Maybe you are experiencing emotional stressors, social deficits, or connection/relationship difficulties? My goal as a therapist is to help you develop a creative plan to learn and implement coping skills to overcome these struggles. I treat clients from all walks of life and of all ages. I treat a wide range of issues including anxiety, stress, depression, grief, anger, work or school issues, relationship issues, trauma, parenting, behavioral issues, and marital issues including divorce.
(404) 236-6498 View (404) 236-6498
Photo of Sunya Kapidya, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
Sunya Kapidya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I am a therapist in Atlanta, GA with over 5 years of experience in many different settings! I have been lucky enough to receive training in a wide variety of areas and specialties through my time working at hospitals, hospice, as well as therapy and coaching programs, where I worked with patients of all ages, backgrounds and diagnoses. I believe that each and every one of us have the answers we seek within us. I look forward to helping you explore yourself and being on your journey of healing with you, so you are able to bring out the best version of yourself and live your healthiest and happiest reality!
I am a therapist in Atlanta, GA with over 5 years of experience in many different settings! I have been lucky enough to receive training in a wide variety of areas and specialties through my time working at hospitals, hospice, as well as therapy and coaching programs, where I worked with patients of all ages, backgrounds and diagnoses. I believe that each and every one of us have the answers we seek within us. I look forward to helping you explore yourself and being on your journey of healing with you, so you are able to bring out the best version of yourself and live your healthiest and happiest reality!
(470) 319-3056 View (470) 319-3056
Photo of Harvest Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Harvest Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Immediate Availability! Have you ever experienced something that was severely distressing and emotionally overwhelming? Those experiences cause problems in your relationships, work, school, and self-esteem. You no longer feel like you can trust yourself or the world around you. Let us help you get back into the driving seat of your life.
Immediate Availability! Have you ever experienced something that was severely distressing and emotionally overwhelming? Those experiences cause problems in your relationships, work, school, and self-esteem. You no longer feel like you can trust yourself or the world around you. Let us help you get back into the driving seat of your life.
(404) 476-6622 View (404) 476-6622
Photo of Justin Harley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Justin Harley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
Hello, I'm Dr. Justin Harley, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 19 years of experience. I hold a Master's Degree in Professional Counseling from Georgia State University and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Regent University. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations, including children, adolescents, adults of all ages, couples, and families.
Hello, I'm Dr. Justin Harley, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 19 years of experience. I hold a Master's Degree in Professional Counseling from Georgia State University and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Regent University. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations, including children, adolescents, adults of all ages, couples, and families.
(678) 379-1545 View (678) 379-1545
Photo of Ebony Darcel McCall, Pre-Licensed Professional in Sandy Springs, GA
Ebony Darcel McCall
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
My purpose is to create a safe nonjudgemental space for people that struggle with sadness or depression, and or feel overwhelmed with stress or anxiety. I am a combat veteran and understand the challenges associated with readjustment to civilian life, and the lasting impact combat can have on an individual and family.
My purpose is to create a safe nonjudgemental space for people that struggle with sadness or depression, and or feel overwhelmed with stress or anxiety. I am a combat veteran and understand the challenges associated with readjustment to civilian life, and the lasting impact combat can have on an individual and family.
(678) 426-3063 View (678) 426-3063
Photo of Amy Shapiro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Amy Shapiro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I am a warm and compassionate mental health professional with over 25 years of experience. I work to create a safe relationship as you seek healing and insight. If you are struggling with mental health or interpersonal problems but find it difficult to speak with a therapist, I am here for you.
I am a warm and compassionate mental health professional with over 25 years of experience. I work to create a safe relationship as you seek healing and insight. If you are struggling with mental health or interpersonal problems but find it difficult to speak with a therapist, I am here for you.
(404) 882-7871 View (404) 882-7871
Photo of Pamela Hayes Malkoff, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Pamela Hayes Malkoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFT, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
As an Art Therapis and a bisexual woman, Pamela has a strong commitment to serving diverse populations, including the LGBTQ+ community. She is attuned to the unique challenges faced by individuals re: identity and sexuality. She provides a safe and affirming space for exploration and growth. Focused on atypical relationships (ethical non-monogamy, long distance, FWB, triads, situationships), Pamela's approach is solution-focused to help clients reduce jealousy, increase compassion, rediscover passion and make real change. There is not much that will offend or surprise her. She also enjoys hiking, biking, art and a warm bowl of Pho.
As an Art Therapis and a bisexual woman, Pamela has a strong commitment to serving diverse populations, including the LGBTQ+ community. She is attuned to the unique challenges faced by individuals re: identity and sexuality. She provides a safe and affirming space for exploration and growth. Focused on atypical relationships (ethical non-monogamy, long distance, FWB, triads, situationships), Pamela's approach is solution-focused to help clients reduce jealousy, increase compassion, rediscover passion and make real change. There is not much that will offend or surprise her. She also enjoys hiking, biking, art and a warm bowl of Pho.
(404) 531-7301 View (404) 531-7301
Photo of Karen Kallis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Karen Kallis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30319
I believe that we are all resilient to overcome difficult circumstances. Sometimes we need help in reclaiming those skills and finding new understanding to function in our environment. I am grateful to work with children,adolescents, and adults with their life challenges. I am dedicated to help you feel empowered by applying new skills . We will work together to discover a meaningful belonging in your environment; overcome feelings of inferiority; and learn new strategies that benefit you. I help you to feel a more genuine connection to yourself and others through compassionate acceptance and reframing negative thoughts to create more positive choices.
I believe that we are all resilient to overcome difficult circumstances. Sometimes we need help in reclaiming those skills and finding new understanding to function in our environment. I am grateful to work with children,adolescents, and adults with their life challenges. I am dedicated to help you feel empowered by applying new skills . We will work together to discover a meaningful belonging in your environment; overcome feelings of inferiority; and learn new strategies that benefit you. I help you to feel a more genuine connection to yourself and others through compassionate acceptance and reframing negative thoughts to create more positive choices.
(404) 865-3825 View (404) 865-3825
Photo of Vos Vita Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Vos Vita Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
There are times where we need a bit more support and perhaps an unbiased non-judgmental person to offer that lending ear. Depression, anxiety and stressors can be debilitating for anyone who has been affected by it regardless of age, gender or ethnicity. Therapy is a journey that can offer that support in which the therapist and client work together collaboratively in care. We will both row that boat together to get you to your established goal.
There are times where we need a bit more support and perhaps an unbiased non-judgmental person to offer that lending ear. Depression, anxiety and stressors can be debilitating for anyone who has been affected by it regardless of age, gender or ethnicity. Therapy is a journey that can offer that support in which the therapist and client work together collaboratively in care. We will both row that boat together to get you to your established goal.
(678) 967-0790 View (678) 967-0790
Photo of Walena Bryant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
Walena Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ICADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I am an LCSW and certified addiction counselor with over 25 years of providing behavioral health and addiction services. I began my career in behavioral health while serving in the United States Air Force. I have experience working with various populations including veterans, children, and the LGBTQ community. I assist in the management of trauma, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. I am currently providing child, adolescent, adult, and substance abuse assessments, I am a former case manager and can make referrals for services in the community. I accept referrals from Gwinnett, Fulton, and Dekalb.
I am an LCSW and certified addiction counselor with over 25 years of providing behavioral health and addiction services. I began my career in behavioral health while serving in the United States Air Force. I have experience working with various populations including veterans, children, and the LGBTQ community. I assist in the management of trauma, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. I am currently providing child, adolescent, adult, and substance abuse assessments, I am a former case manager and can make referrals for services in the community. I accept referrals from Gwinnett, Fulton, and Dekalb.
(404) 948-5102 View (404) 948-5102

See more therapy options for Sandy Springs

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.