Photo of Adam Shafer, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Adam Shafer
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
I understand the healing process as one of self-determination through therapeutic empathy. Being curious while employing sensitive honesty makes me a good fit for people who are open to exploring deeper personal and interpersonal connections. The lens of attachment, psychodynamic theory, and existential thought within ecological and systemic perspectives help me appreciate the pressures that impact quality of life issues. I am interested in working with individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds who find themselves struggling in relationships, depression, anxiety, complex trauma, psychosis, and grief/loss.
I understand the healing process as one of self-determination through therapeutic empathy. Being curious while employing sensitive honesty makes me a good fit for people who are open to exploring deeper personal and interpersonal connections. The lens of attachment, psychodynamic theory, and existential thought within ecological and systemic perspectives help me appreciate the pressures that impact quality of life issues. I am interested in working with individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds who find themselves struggling in relationships, depression, anxiety, complex trauma, psychosis, and grief/loss.
(708) 887-2959 View (708) 887-2959
Photo of Jeff VanDenBussche, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jeff VanDenBussche
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
There are times when we feel stuck and needing some sort of change. We do not always know what that change is. Fears, anxieties, or other obstacles get in the way. We grow frustrated with our inability to create change. Perhaps you are uncertain as to whether you want to continue in your career path. Maybe you are frustrated with your relationship and need to change it, or are considering moving on. Maybe you are continually having difficulties expressing yourself, or in dealing with stress, grief, anxieties, depression, or family/relationship matters.
There are times when we feel stuck and needing some sort of change. We do not always know what that change is. Fears, anxieties, or other obstacles get in the way. We grow frustrated with our inability to create change. Perhaps you are uncertain as to whether you want to continue in your career path. Maybe you are frustrated with your relationship and need to change it, or are considering moving on. Maybe you are continually having difficulties expressing yourself, or in dealing with stress, grief, anxieties, depression, or family/relationship matters.
(773) 974-8761 View (773) 974-8761
Photo of Jennifer Stridh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jennifer Stridh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I offer support in moving through trauma, grief, relationship challenges, anxiety, loneliness, obsessions, fears, self esteem, conflict and life transitions.
Therapy can be a vulnerable process to initiate, whatever brings you in is worthy of time and attention. Many aspects of life can be difficult, recurring and even intolerable. Hope or frustration may have brought you here, in pursuit of the change that continues to mystify you and simultaneously carry you onto the next day. Therapy may support you in working grain by grain towards small adjustments that add up and create new possibilities. Sometimes things don't change, though, and you may have to contend with that powerlessness too. For now, you can begin to get to know yourself and your patterns with more clarity and compassion.
I offer support in moving through trauma, grief, relationship challenges, anxiety, loneliness, obsessions, fears, self esteem, conflict and life transitions.
Therapy can be a vulnerable process to initiate, whatever brings you in is worthy of time and attention. Many aspects of life can be difficult, recurring and even intolerable. Hope or frustration may have brought you here, in pursuit of the change that continues to mystify you and simultaneously carry you onto the next day. Therapy may support you in working grain by grain towards small adjustments that add up and create new possibilities. Sometimes things don't change, though, and you may have to contend with that powerlessness too. For now, you can begin to get to know yourself and your patterns with more clarity and compassion.
(872) 704-8723 View (872) 704-8723
Photo of Ellen Rosendale, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Ellen Rosendale, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615  (Online Only)
A time of stress is one of the most common reasons to seek therapy. People also often enter counseling after experiencing a loss or a looming loss, whether it concerns a health crisis, relationship, divorce, job, the death of a loved one, or a major disappointment. My goal is to develop a warm and trusting working relationship with every client so that they have the opportunity to explore their thinking and feelings in a setting that is safe and secure. My work is solution-focused and evidenced-based. Ultimately, the goal of any therapy is life enhancement.
A time of stress is one of the most common reasons to seek therapy. People also often enter counseling after experiencing a loss or a looming loss, whether it concerns a health crisis, relationship, divorce, job, the death of a loved one, or a major disappointment. My goal is to develop a warm and trusting working relationship with every client so that they have the opportunity to explore their thinking and feelings in a setting that is safe and secure. My work is solution-focused and evidenced-based. Ultimately, the goal of any therapy is life enhancement.
(773) 207-3220 View (773) 207-3220
Photo of Jennifer Ngaonye, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jennifer Ngaonye
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642
Also, I have experience dealing with anxiety, depression, transitions in life, grief, and trauma.
I believe that everyone has purpose and value no matter how big or small. My goal in counseling is to walk alongside my clients on their journey to mental wellness as they rediscover and align themselves with the lives they desire to live.
Also, I have experience dealing with anxiety, depression, transitions in life, grief, and trauma.
I believe that everyone has purpose and value no matter how big or small. My goal in counseling is to walk alongside my clients on their journey to mental wellness as they rediscover and align themselves with the lives they desire to live.
(708) 578-7197 View (708) 578-7197
Photo of Denise J Dozier, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chicago, IL
Denise J Dozier
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
Life is a process of adapting to new circumstances. I became a therapist to assist people in navigating through life. As we evolve, we will be faced with various obstacles and having a safe place to process those emotions is important. My passion is for couples and teaching them how to communicate what their needs are in a relationship in a compassionate manner. I also, assist those dealing with grief, and helping to build the self esteem of men and women. My style of counseling is one of love, compassion and humor with a direct approach. I believe counseling can be as light or as heavy as you desire.
Life is a process of adapting to new circumstances. I became a therapist to assist people in navigating through life. As we evolve, we will be faced with various obstacles and having a safe place to process those emotions is important. My passion is for couples and teaching them how to communicate what their needs are in a relationship in a compassionate manner. I also, assist those dealing with grief, and helping to build the self esteem of men and women. My style of counseling is one of love, compassion and humor with a direct approach. I believe counseling can be as light or as heavy as you desire.
(312) 376-3264 View (312) 376-3264
Photo of Michelle Elijah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Michelle Elijah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607
I am a licensed psychotherapist who works predominately with teens and adults on issues like anxiety, overwhelm/stress, grief and emotional regulation. I also work with couples and am Gottman Level 1 certified. In sessions with me, you can expect a warm, supportive, and calming space for us to connect so that you feel seen and heard. I use a holistic and relational approach that encourages you to be an active participant in your own growth and healing. My goal is to help empower you to investigate and enhance your relationship with yourself in order to live a life that feels full and authentic.
I am a licensed psychotherapist who works predominately with teens and adults on issues like anxiety, overwhelm/stress, grief and emotional regulation. I also work with couples and am Gottman Level 1 certified. In sessions with me, you can expect a warm, supportive, and calming space for us to connect so that you feel seen and heard. I use a holistic and relational approach that encourages you to be an active participant in your own growth and healing. My goal is to help empower you to investigate and enhance your relationship with yourself in order to live a life that feels full and authentic.
(312) 940-3369 View (312) 940-3369
Photo of Robert Stoner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Robert Stoner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I work with adults, either individually or as couples. I use an interactive approach, grounded in Gestalt Therapy with a focus on the mind/body connection. I specialize in grief and loss and navigating life’s major transitions, in recovery from past trauma, and gay/lesbian issues.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I work with adults, either individually or as couples. I use an interactive approach, grounded in Gestalt Therapy with a focus on the mind/body connection. I specialize in grief and loss and navigating life’s major transitions, in recovery from past trauma, and gay/lesbian issues.
(872) 713-5915 View (872) 713-5915
Photo of Yael Ron, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Yael Ron
Psychologist, PsyD, LCPC, LCP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
"Experience CHANGE and RESOLUTION. You're not alone in your struggles.My purpose is to support you through crisis, and facilitate positive CHANGES in your life. In a warm, safe and empowering environment,I will help you gain a greater awareness of your choices,better understanding of present circumstances, and transform anxiety, frustration and anger into forward movement and action. My vast experience in providing relief from emotional pain and fear, healing wounds of trauma and loss, reducing stress, and mending love and family relationships will help you achieve an overall sense of well-being, balance and direction.
"Experience CHANGE and RESOLUTION. You're not alone in your struggles.My purpose is to support you through crisis, and facilitate positive CHANGES in your life. In a warm, safe and empowering environment,I will help you gain a greater awareness of your choices,better understanding of present circumstances, and transform anxiety, frustration and anger into forward movement and action. My vast experience in providing relief from emotional pain and fear, healing wounds of trauma and loss, reducing stress, and mending love and family relationships will help you achieve an overall sense of well-being, balance and direction.
(847) 969-5393 View (847) 969-5393
Photo of Christen Scozzafave, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Christen Scozzafave
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
With every challenge, change or loss we face in life, I believe growth, transformation, healing and peace are possible - even in the most difficult circumstances. We will work together to understand and transform pain, confusion, fragility, stress and difficulty. We will also achieve improved insight and strengths for meaningful change and connection. My areas of specialty include grief, maternal/perinatal mental health, pregnancy & infant loss, challenges associated with prematurity & chronic disease, anxiety, depression, adjustment to illness, career transitions, life changes and relationship challenges.
With every challenge, change or loss we face in life, I believe growth, transformation, healing and peace are possible - even in the most difficult circumstances. We will work together to understand and transform pain, confusion, fragility, stress and difficulty. We will also achieve improved insight and strengths for meaningful change and connection. My areas of specialty include grief, maternal/perinatal mental health, pregnancy & infant loss, challenges associated with prematurity & chronic disease, anxiety, depression, adjustment to illness, career transitions, life changes and relationship challenges.
(773) 295-4054 View (773) 295-4054
Photo of Kelly DeGraaf, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chicago, IL
Kelly DeGraaf
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
My clinical interests are in grief and loss, couples issues, self-esteem, identity exploration, anxiety, and trauma.
I believe that our most impactful relationships and our cultural contexts profoundly influence how we navigate the world. This systemic approach is combined with a practice that is trauma-informed and strength-based to hold space that balances warmth, thoughtfulness, and laughter with an appropriate amount of challenge. In my work, I value creating authentic and meaningful relationships with my clients where we can collaborate to deepen your understanding of yourself and your relationships.
My clinical interests are in grief and loss, couples issues, self-esteem, identity exploration, anxiety, and trauma.
I believe that our most impactful relationships and our cultural contexts profoundly influence how we navigate the world. This systemic approach is combined with a practice that is trauma-informed and strength-based to hold space that balances warmth, thoughtfulness, and laughter with an appropriate amount of challenge. In my work, I value creating authentic and meaningful relationships with my clients where we can collaborate to deepen your understanding of yourself and your relationships.
View
Photo of Blake Paxton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Blake Paxton
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Though my primary clinical expertise is in grief, I help clients with many other challenges.
Sometimes we might feel like nobody understands us or what we are going through. Life can present some major challenges, and it is hard to be trapped in what seems like an inescapable situation. I know what it is like to feel stuck. These types of situations are numerous: problems communicating with a partner, having low motivation in a job, missing a loved one that you have lost, paralyzing anxiety about making an important decision. Seeking the help of a mental health professional is the first step in getting unstuck. There is great courage in being able to ask for help. I am glad that you are embarking on this journey.
Though my primary clinical expertise is in grief, I help clients with many other challenges.
Sometimes we might feel like nobody understands us or what we are going through. Life can present some major challenges, and it is hard to be trapped in what seems like an inescapable situation. I know what it is like to feel stuck. These types of situations are numerous: problems communicating with a partner, having low motivation in a job, missing a loved one that you have lost, paralyzing anxiety about making an important decision. Seeking the help of a mental health professional is the first step in getting unstuck. There is great courage in being able to ask for help. I am glad that you are embarking on this journey.
(773) 249-9233 View (773) 249-9233
Photo of Susan Mathew, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Susan Mathew
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
I work with adults (18+) seeking a deeper understanding of themselves. I'm comfortable working with various issues such as relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief and loss. It's effective to work with people who want to explore the underlying causes of their struggles and gain insights into their patterns. Typically, patients value a supportive space to express themselves without judgment. Loss and mourning are an area of expertise where I help individuals navigate grief and rebuild their lives. I aim to provide a compassionate environment where patients can discover themselves, grow, and find healing.
I work with adults (18+) seeking a deeper understanding of themselves. I'm comfortable working with various issues such as relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief and loss. It's effective to work with people who want to explore the underlying causes of their struggles and gain insights into their patterns. Typically, patients value a supportive space to express themselves without judgment. Loss and mourning are an area of expertise where I help individuals navigate grief and rebuild their lives. I aim to provide a compassionate environment where patients can discover themselves, grow, and find healing.
(630) 599-8809 View (630) 599-8809
Photo of Tom Undine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Tom Undine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
I have expertise with issues of grief and loss, as well as issues of emerging adulthood.
I provide quality mental health counseling and therapy that is thoughtfully tailored to your needs. Our work together will address concerns in an empowering and centering way that produces substantive change. My approach is connective (Therapy works best when we are able to connect and work well together) and directive (by directive I mean that I give things for you to do during the week like writing, journaling, reading, exercises, reflections, and/or activities). I'm known for being helpful with people who have been through therapy and haven't had success. I help people find aliveness, creativity, and strength.
I have expertise with issues of grief and loss, as well as issues of emerging adulthood.
I provide quality mental health counseling and therapy that is thoughtfully tailored to your needs. Our work together will address concerns in an empowering and centering way that produces substantive change. My approach is connective (Therapy works best when we are able to connect and work well together) and directive (by directive I mean that I give things for you to do during the week like writing, journaling, reading, exercises, reflections, and/or activities). I'm known for being helpful with people who have been through therapy and haven't had success. I help people find aliveness, creativity, and strength.
(773) 717-2920 View (773) 717-2920
Photo of Sujai Chang, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Sujai Chang
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
Specializing in EMDR, Grief, and Perinatal Mental Health. Let's Navigate the Depths Together. As a bilingual (spanish) therapist I am here to support adults and couples navigating through life's toughest challenges. Whether you're battling feelings of depression, anxiety, or facing difficult transitions, know that you're not alone. Together, we'll equip you with the tools to overcome these obstacles and rediscover joy. Life's journey can be overwhelming, but with compassionate guidance, healing is possible. Let's embark on this journey together.
Specializing in EMDR, Grief, and Perinatal Mental Health. Let's Navigate the Depths Together. As a bilingual (spanish) therapist I am here to support adults and couples navigating through life's toughest challenges. Whether you're battling feelings of depression, anxiety, or facing difficult transitions, know that you're not alone. Together, we'll equip you with the tools to overcome these obstacles and rediscover joy. Life's journey can be overwhelming, but with compassionate guidance, healing is possible. Let's embark on this journey together.
(708) 578-2154 View (708) 578-2154
Photo of Courtney Rankin, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Courtney Rankin
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
*Now Accepting New Clients* I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship concerns and grief and loss. Whether your goal is to set goals and make some changes or to process past and present issues, I am there to help you make the progress you desire.
*Now Accepting New Clients* I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship concerns and grief and loss. Whether your goal is to set goals and make some changes or to process past and present issues, I am there to help you make the progress you desire.
(872) 206-9820 View (872) 206-9820
Photo of Tessa Beukema-Mello, LCPC, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Tessa Beukema-Mello, LCPC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60630
Many of my clients have successfully worked through depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse, grief/loss, and periods of low self-worth.
Growth and change are a natural part of living, yet they can be difficult to manage. Stillness and repetition are also natural and difficult at times. Maybe you seek to feel more alive, or respond differently to the unexpected. Maybe you seek to be more still. Or maybe you just have a sense that something is not right. Therapy is a relationship that allows exploration, curiosity, and relief. Together, we will find a creative way through the obstacles you face. I look forward to working with you as life unfolds in new and wonderful ways.
Many of my clients have successfully worked through depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse, grief/loss, and periods of low self-worth.
Growth and change are a natural part of living, yet they can be difficult to manage. Stillness and repetition are also natural and difficult at times. Maybe you seek to feel more alive, or respond differently to the unexpected. Maybe you seek to be more still. Or maybe you just have a sense that something is not right. Therapy is a relationship that allows exploration, curiosity, and relief. Together, we will find a creative way through the obstacles you face. I look forward to working with you as life unfolds in new and wonderful ways.
(773) 823-0140 View (773) 823-0140
Photo of Jennifer Batza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jennifer Batza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661
I have trained in perinatal mood disorders, EMDR, mindfulness for resilience, ACT therapy for management of chronic pain and illness, using attachment theory with new parents and with individual clients, and bereavement support.
I am currently accepting only clients who need short-term, crisis support as my practice is full. I support people under pressure, whether the source is professional, medical, or relational. I spent a decade supporting families and professionals managing high risk pregnancy and reproductive mood complications by staffing all units and clinics affiliated with a women's hospital. I have accompanied thousands of people managing high stakes medical decisions, illness or demise, caregiver fatigue in patients or professionals, infertility, and marital conflict.
I have trained in perinatal mood disorders, EMDR, mindfulness for resilience, ACT therapy for management of chronic pain and illness, using attachment theory with new parents and with individual clients, and bereavement support.
I am currently accepting only clients who need short-term, crisis support as my practice is full. I support people under pressure, whether the source is professional, medical, or relational. I spent a decade supporting families and professionals managing high risk pregnancy and reproductive mood complications by staffing all units and clinics affiliated with a women's hospital. I have accompanied thousands of people managing high stakes medical decisions, illness or demise, caregiver fatigue in patients or professionals, infertility, and marital conflict.
(312) 755-2787 View (312) 755-2787
Photo of Amanda Atkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Amanda Atkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
My specialties are in couple's issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss (particularly partner, parent, or child loss), chronic or terminal illness, as well as infertility and postpartum mood disorders. I enjoy treating issues related to parenting, including the complex demands placed on parents of disabled children. I’ve partnered with corporations to provide on-site therapy in the midst of workplace crisis and tragedy, as well as presenting on mental health issues in the workplace. My first book is coming out in spring of 2025 with Workman Publishing on the topic of disability parenting.
My specialties are in couple's issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss (particularly partner, parent, or child loss), chronic or terminal illness, as well as infertility and postpartum mood disorders. I enjoy treating issues related to parenting, including the complex demands placed on parents of disabled children. I’ve partnered with corporations to provide on-site therapy in the midst of workplace crisis and tragedy, as well as presenting on mental health issues in the workplace. My first book is coming out in spring of 2025 with Workman Publishing on the topic of disability parenting.
(312) 651-6909 View (312) 651-6909
Photo of Gianne Shah, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Gianne Shah
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
Virtual appointments during evenings only. Everyone has a story. I am devoted and focused to help clients that are seeking to develop into the best version of themselves. I utilize an integrative approach as a counselor to help my clients work on the various challenges that life brings while helping them to achieve the peace and balance they desire. I specialize in working with clients who want to address challenges around to anxiety, depression, clinical trauma, grief/loss, relationships as well as personal growth & development. I want to be a safe space for you to feel comfortable in telling your story.
Virtual appointments during evenings only. Everyone has a story. I am devoted and focused to help clients that are seeking to develop into the best version of themselves. I utilize an integrative approach as a counselor to help my clients work on the various challenges that life brings while helping them to achieve the peace and balance they desire. I specialize in working with clients who want to address challenges around to anxiety, depression, clinical trauma, grief/loss, relationships as well as personal growth & development. I want to be a safe space for you to feel comfortable in telling your story.
(773) 992-1278 View (773) 992-1278
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.