Photo of Lisa M D'Innocenzo, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Lisa M D'Innocenzo
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor , ATR, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Sometimes people aren't sure what to work on in therapy. That's okay! We will work collaboratively to identify core concerns, and decide together how to address them. Some issues I've helped people work through include depression, grief, pregnancy loss, life transitions, creative blocks, self-esteem, disempowerment, and spiritual alienation. My approach is insight oriented and relational, and while I am an art therapist, my work is not always art-based. However, as an artist, I've found that my understanding of the creative process illuminates many life situations that benefit from creative problem-solving.
Sometimes people aren't sure what to work on in therapy. That's okay! We will work collaboratively to identify core concerns, and decide together how to address them. Some issues I've helped people work through include depression, grief, pregnancy loss, life transitions, creative blocks, self-esteem, disempowerment, and spiritual alienation. My approach is insight oriented and relational, and while I am an art therapist, my work is not always art-based. However, as an artist, I've found that my understanding of the creative process illuminates many life situations that benefit from creative problem-solving.
(847) 796-6796 View (847) 796-6796
Photo of Eric Mascara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Eric Mascara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I currently have openings for in-person sessions on Thursdays in downtown Evanston, IL. I also have openings for virtual clients in IL and NY. I work with adults facing diverse obstacles, including anxiety, depression, grief, gender and sexuality exploration, and life transitions. I am knowledgeable and affirming around LGBTQIA+ identities and relationships. Through a psychodynamic approach, I will support you on your journey of understanding the root causes of your challenges while identifying solutions to take concrete steps toward life changes.
I currently have openings for in-person sessions on Thursdays in downtown Evanston, IL. I also have openings for virtual clients in IL and NY. I work with adults facing diverse obstacles, including anxiety, depression, grief, gender and sexuality exploration, and life transitions. I am knowledgeable and affirming around LGBTQIA+ identities and relationships. Through a psychodynamic approach, I will support you on your journey of understanding the root causes of your challenges while identifying solutions to take concrete steps toward life changes.
(646) 681-7609 View (646) 681-7609
Photo of Joe Flint, Counselor in Evanston, IL
Joe Flint
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202  (Online Only)
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, prolonged or acute grief, chronic pain or illness, caregiving, sexual orientation, and relationship issues. I do not subscribe to one particular modality but rather tailor my approach to each client's needs. I believe working in the here and now are great ways to address current stressors, and I'm always happy to work with clients to address deeper issues as appropriate.
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, prolonged or acute grief, chronic pain or illness, caregiving, sexual orientation, and relationship issues. I do not subscribe to one particular modality but rather tailor my approach to each client's needs. I believe working in the here and now are great ways to address current stressors, and I'm always happy to work with clients to address deeper issues as appropriate.
(224) 268-0074 View (224) 268-0074
Photo of Tracey Ben Shalom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Tracey Ben Shalom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I have experience helping clients work through the complexities of trauma, grief, chronic illness and challenging mood states.
The most incredible journey is one that leads you to self-discovery. A commitment to therapy helps you become more compassionate towards yourself and others and will help prioritize your wellbeing. There is great value in dedicating space/time to process challenging thoughts/feelings, adjust to difficult changes, and tell your story free of judgment and bias. A core aspect of my approach is honoring social and cultural context, as our unique identities play a powerful role in our relationships and our environments. I value individual experience and I want to help my clients engage in the world in a way that works best for them.
I have experience helping clients work through the complexities of trauma, grief, chronic illness and challenging mood states.
The most incredible journey is one that leads you to self-discovery. A commitment to therapy helps you become more compassionate towards yourself and others and will help prioritize your wellbeing. There is great value in dedicating space/time to process challenging thoughts/feelings, adjust to difficult changes, and tell your story free of judgment and bias. A core aspect of my approach is honoring social and cultural context, as our unique identities play a powerful role in our relationships and our environments. I value individual experience and I want to help my clients engage in the world in a way that works best for them.
(224) 601-5451 View (224) 601-5451
Photo of Leah Schwartz, Counselor in Evanston, IL
Leah Schwartz
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I help individuals who are seeking support related to personal growth, depression, life transitions, anxiety, grief, divorce, stress management and relational concerns.
Whether you are feeling sad, stressed, overwhelmed or seeking treatment for a loved one, my goals is to guide and empower you to achieve the change you desire in your life. I provide individual, and family therapy to adults and adolescents. I strive to create a compassionate environment where treatment is structured to your unique needs.
I help individuals who are seeking support related to personal growth, depression, life transitions, anxiety, grief, divorce, stress management and relational concerns.
Whether you are feeling sad, stressed, overwhelmed or seeking treatment for a loved one, my goals is to guide and empower you to achieve the change you desire in your life. I provide individual, and family therapy to adults and adolescents. I strive to create a compassionate environment where treatment is structured to your unique needs.
(847) 999-4168 x2 View (847) 999-4168 x2
Photo of Ariana Miserak, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Ariana Miserak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Throughout my experience, I recognized I particularly enjoy working with young adults on life transitions, trauma, depression, anxiety, identity exploration, grief/loss and relationship concerns.
I believe therapy is a gift to oneself of a safe space to explore, reflect, understand, and identify what is important. It is necessary to challenge my clients to confront unfinished business within themselves in order to live freely in the present moment. Recognizably, I am not the expert in the therapeutic space—you are. I value collaboratively and energetically working towards a sense of healing and understanding.
Throughout my experience, I recognized I particularly enjoy working with young adults on life transitions, trauma, depression, anxiety, identity exploration, grief/loss and relationship concerns.
I believe therapy is a gift to oneself of a safe space to explore, reflect, understand, and identify what is important. It is necessary to challenge my clients to confront unfinished business within themselves in order to live freely in the present moment. Recognizably, I am not the expert in the therapeutic space—you are. I value collaboratively and energetically working towards a sense of healing and understanding.
(847) 321-7582 x1005 View (847) 321-7582 x1005
Photo of Janice Henkel Fleckman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Janice Henkel Fleckman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202
My clients include adults of all ages. I am warm, skilled therapist with knowledge and experience with a broad range of issues. I have expertise in working with people who are anxious, depressed, or who have experienced trauma or loss. I facilitate groups called "Honoring Our Lost Mothers and Others: Connecting and Reconnecting" and Honoring Our Departed Animal Companions for people who have experienced a significant loss. The participants use art materials to honor and express their loss. No art experience is necessary.
My clients include adults of all ages. I am warm, skilled therapist with knowledge and experience with a broad range of issues. I have expertise in working with people who are anxious, depressed, or who have experienced trauma or loss. I facilitate groups called "Honoring Our Lost Mothers and Others: Connecting and Reconnecting" and Honoring Our Departed Animal Companions for people who have experienced a significant loss. The participants use art materials to honor and express their loss. No art experience is necessary.
(847) 469-4906 View (847) 469-4906
Photo of Emily (Campbell) Almanza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Emily (Campbell) Almanza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, GC-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Grief Support Group for Loss of a Parent — I am facilitating an online support group for adults who are grieving the death of a parent, starting June 15, 2020.
If you’re in a season of emotional pain or confusion, I’m glad you’re taking the first step to reach out for help. Maybe you’ve been trudging through a challenging situation and feeling like you’re making little progress. Maybe you’ve lost a loved one or have experienced an upheaval in your life that has shaken your foundations. Whatever it is, we can walk together through your unique journey. I often help clients navigate through issues like grief and loss including life transitions, cultural issues, and the impact of trauma, as well as working with depression, anxiety, and relational stressors.
Grief Support Group for Loss of a Parent — I am facilitating an online support group for adults who are grieving the death of a parent, starting June 15, 2020.
If you’re in a season of emotional pain or confusion, I’m glad you’re taking the first step to reach out for help. Maybe you’ve been trudging through a challenging situation and feeling like you’re making little progress. Maybe you’ve lost a loved one or have experienced an upheaval in your life that has shaken your foundations. Whatever it is, we can walk together through your unique journey. I often help clients navigate through issues like grief and loss including life transitions, cultural issues, and the impact of trauma, as well as working with depression, anxiety, and relational stressors.
(773) 993-1159 View (773) 993-1159
Photo of Jennifer Batza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Jennifer Batza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
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 Marcy D Wilroy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Marcy D Wilroy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, DSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and addiction.
We all have challenges in our lives. Sometimes these challenges can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of worry and anxiety. At other times, these challenges can lead to depression and despair. I am here to listen. I am here to support you. I am here to give you the tools that you need to make needed changes. Together, we can explore possibilities and find the motivation for change that you have inside of you.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and addiction.
We all have challenges in our lives. Sometimes these challenges can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of worry and anxiety. At other times, these challenges can lead to depression and despair. I am here to listen. I am here to support you. I am here to give you the tools that you need to make needed changes. Together, we can explore possibilities and find the motivation for change that you have inside of you.
(224) 250-2891 View (224) 250-2891
Photo of Todd M Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Todd M Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I work with people experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and going through life transitions.
I look at my clients as already complete human beings. You are more than your problems, and not as simple as a textbook. I treat each of my clients as a whole and unique person, not as a set of symptoms. I help my clients build on their strengths, to create a better sense of wellbeing. Whatever challenges you are facing, whatever difficulties you are having, I assure you that you are worth being heard. You are worth being treated with compassion, in a nonjudgmental setting. I am here to help you find healing and wholeness.
I work with people experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and going through life transitions.
I look at my clients as already complete human beings. You are more than your problems, and not as simple as a textbook. I treat each of my clients as a whole and unique person, not as a set of symptoms. I help my clients build on their strengths, to create a better sense of wellbeing. Whatever challenges you are facing, whatever difficulties you are having, I assure you that you are worth being heard. You are worth being treated with compassion, in a nonjudgmental setting. I am here to help you find healing and wholeness.
(708) 586-4965 View (708) 586-4965
Photo of Molly Adams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Molly Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202  (Online Only)
I specialize in complex trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and mood disorders.
Taking the first step to engage in counseling is a courageous one. I’m so glad you’re here! I am committed to guiding you toward self-discovery, healing, and empowerment. I bring a compassionate and client-centered approach to therapy, allowing you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and relationships in a safe, non-judgmental space.
I specialize in complex trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and mood disorders.
Taking the first step to engage in counseling is a courageous one. I’m so glad you’re here! I am committed to guiding you toward self-discovery, healing, and empowerment. I bring a compassionate and client-centered approach to therapy, allowing you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and relationships in a safe, non-judgmental space.
(312) 414-4907 View (312) 414-4907
Photo of Thom Dennis, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Thom Dennis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, D Min, LCPC, LMHC, FT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
I specialize in supporting people coping with illness and disease, caregiver overload, death, dying, and bereavement, family crisis, relational conflict, burnout, career change, and life transition.
​​​It’s not just you, we’re all doing our best to deal with the stresses of modern life and it seems many of us are becoming increasingly overwhelmed. I companion adults who feel they are being stretched to the breaking point by one or more of those "bigger issues" in life that threaten our over-all wellbeing, if not our very existence:​ Identity, Isolation, Death, Meaning, Freedom, and Happiness. With a background in healthcare and advanced training in pastoral care and counseling, I’m going to respect and honor you as a person no matter what issues or troubles you bring with you into our conversations.
I specialize in supporting people coping with illness and disease, caregiver overload, death, dying, and bereavement, family crisis, relational conflict, burnout, career change, and life transition.
​​​It’s not just you, we’re all doing our best to deal with the stresses of modern life and it seems many of us are becoming increasingly overwhelmed. I companion adults who feel they are being stretched to the breaking point by one or more of those "bigger issues" in life that threaten our over-all wellbeing, if not our very existence:​ Identity, Isolation, Death, Meaning, Freedom, and Happiness. With a background in healthcare and advanced training in pastoral care and counseling, I’m going to respect and honor you as a person no matter what issues or troubles you bring with you into our conversations.
(773) 454-9176 View (773) 454-9176
Photo of Whitney Christmas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Evanston, IL
Whitney Christmas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I specialize in working with individuals, relationships, and families who present to therapy with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, perinatal anxiety and mood disorders, couple/family conflicts, and experiences of grief and loss. I have a special interest in working with mothers/birthing individuals who are struggling with issues related to perinatal mental health such as infertility, pregnancy loss, and prenatal/ postpartum anxiety and depression. In addition to being a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist, I also am a Certified Perinatal Mental Health Provider (PMH-C).
I specialize in working with individuals, relationships, and families who present to therapy with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, perinatal anxiety and mood disorders, couple/family conflicts, and experiences of grief and loss. I have a special interest in working with mothers/birthing individuals who are struggling with issues related to perinatal mental health such as infertility, pregnancy loss, and prenatal/ postpartum anxiety and depression. In addition to being a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist, I also am a Certified Perinatal Mental Health Provider (PMH-C).
(312) 535-6502 View (312) 535-6502
Photo of Dr. Jonah Waseberg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Dr. Jonah Waseberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202
Currently sessions are conducted virtually- Dr. Waseberg is a psychotherapist and professor of counseling psychology. He helps individuals and couples struggling with relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, grief, alcohol/drugs, abandonment, anger, OCD, social anxiety, phobia, bipolar/borderline and other psychological issues. He digs deep into the roots of your underlying issues in a safe non-judgmental space with empathy. He has rich experience providing counseling in private practice settings as well as Inpatient Residential Treatment, Partial Hospitalization-PHP, and Intensive Outpatient-IOP settings.
Currently sessions are conducted virtually- Dr. Waseberg is a psychotherapist and professor of counseling psychology. He helps individuals and couples struggling with relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, grief, alcohol/drugs, abandonment, anger, OCD, social anxiety, phobia, bipolar/borderline and other psychological issues. He digs deep into the roots of your underlying issues in a safe non-judgmental space with empathy. He has rich experience providing counseling in private practice settings as well as Inpatient Residential Treatment, Partial Hospitalization-PHP, and Intensive Outpatient-IOP settings.
(773) 974-6274 View (773) 974-6274
Photo of Jennifer Stridh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Evanston, IL
Jennifer Stridh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
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 Yingying Zhang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Yingying Zhang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60208  (Online Only)
As a first generation immigrant, I recognize the unique experience individuals face in life. I am passionate about delivering quality care and service to my clients. I hopes to provide support to anyone who is going through a confusing phase or hardship. I specialize in working young adults, adults, older adults and families dealing with complex trauma, family dynamics, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, stress, phase-of-life changes, grief and loss, as well as children with ADHD and autism.
As a first generation immigrant, I recognize the unique experience individuals face in life. I am passionate about delivering quality care and service to my clients. I hopes to provide support to anyone who is going through a confusing phase or hardship. I specialize in working young adults, adults, older adults and families dealing with complex trauma, family dynamics, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, stress, phase-of-life changes, grief and loss, as well as children with ADHD and autism.
(872) 274-4302 View (872) 274-4302
Photo of Meghan Llanes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Meghan Llanes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
I specialize in providing therapy to individuals & families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, divorce, ADHD, and other common life challenges.
Being a child, an adolescent, an adult, is not easy. School, working, navigating relationships, parenting, family life, finding time for yourself, coping with loss, stress- We all face times that are challenging. Everyone deserves a safe space to share their story, feelings, & experiences & have their truth be heard & held. I am passionate about helping children & adults as they navigate difficult moments in their lives. I am skilled at listening, providing support, guidance, & compassion as individuals strive to make meaning, heal, connect, problem solve, successfully participate, & find joy in their lives. Change is possible.
I specialize in providing therapy to individuals & families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, divorce, ADHD, and other common life challenges.
Being a child, an adolescent, an adult, is not easy. School, working, navigating relationships, parenting, family life, finding time for yourself, coping with loss, stress- We all face times that are challenging. Everyone deserves a safe space to share their story, feelings, & experiences & have their truth be heard & held. I am passionate about helping children & adults as they navigate difficult moments in their lives. I am skilled at listening, providing support, guidance, & compassion as individuals strive to make meaning, heal, connect, problem solve, successfully participate, & find joy in their lives. Change is possible.
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Photo of Bradi Gordon, Counselor in Evanston, IL
Bradi Gordon
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I have worked with people experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, mood management concerns, infertility, self esteem and self-worth, familial issues, family transitions, grief/loss, and behavioral issues.
Are you looking for a space to work through life's challenges? I would love to help! I am not your traditional therapist--I like to make therapy a fun and creative place! Because everyone is unique, I have an eclectic approach to therapy. We will work together to create a safe space for you, where we utilize things that you're interested in, while also integrating evidence based treatment approaches like EMDR and body based approaches.
I have worked with people experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, mood management concerns, infertility, self esteem and self-worth, familial issues, family transitions, grief/loss, and behavioral issues.
Are you looking for a space to work through life's challenges? I would love to help! I am not your traditional therapist--I like to make therapy a fun and creative place! Because everyone is unique, I have an eclectic approach to therapy. We will work together to create a safe space for you, where we utilize things that you're interested in, while also integrating evidence based treatment approaches like EMDR and body based approaches.
(847) 512-3573 View (847) 512-3573
Photo of Joyce Heyman, Counselor in Evanston, IL
Joyce Heyman
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I work with people who may be in life transitions, feeling stuck in patterns of living that are no longer rewarding, having difficulty moving past traumatic experiences, struggling with difficulties in work, health, and/or relationships, or who are coping with loss, depression, anxiety, a sense of numbness, isolation, or other emotional difficulties.
I practice contemporary psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I aim to foster an environment where new understandings about oneself can emerge. When this happens, links between current difficulties and adaptations made (sometimes unconsciously) in order to cope with past challenges can become apparent. Through our conversations, you might come to see how what once worked to solve a particular problem in your life is proving less helpful now. This process of discovery can provide symptom relief and also greater capacities for choice and change. My approach is one of curiosity, compassion, attention to emotional safety, and collaboration.
I work with people who may be in life transitions, feeling stuck in patterns of living that are no longer rewarding, having difficulty moving past traumatic experiences, struggling with difficulties in work, health, and/or relationships, or who are coping with loss, depression, anxiety, a sense of numbness, isolation, or other emotional difficulties.
I practice contemporary psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I aim to foster an environment where new understandings about oneself can emerge. When this happens, links between current difficulties and adaptations made (sometimes unconsciously) in order to cope with past challenges can become apparent. Through our conversations, you might come to see how what once worked to solve a particular problem in your life is proving less helpful now. This process of discovery can provide symptom relief and also greater capacities for choice and change. My approach is one of curiosity, compassion, attention to emotional safety, and collaboration.
(312) 883-8722 View (312) 883-8722
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.