Photo of Sharon Millsaps, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Sharon Millsaps
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults of all ages, but I have a particular passion for working with college students and LGBT individuals. I also enjoy working with folks with a variety of concerns including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, grief, relationship issues, low self esteem, body image concerns and gaming addiction. I believe in using evidence based practices to achieve the most change in the shortest amount of time. Allow me to help you tackle your goals and gain more fulfillment out of life.
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults of all ages, but I have a particular passion for working with college students and LGBT individuals. I also enjoy working with folks with a variety of concerns including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, grief, relationship issues, low self esteem, body image concerns and gaming addiction. I believe in using evidence based practices to achieve the most change in the shortest amount of time. Allow me to help you tackle your goals and gain more fulfillment out of life.
(301) 265-3400 View (301) 265-3400
Photo of Tom Golden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Tom Golden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
He works with people healing from many different traumas including childhood abuse, suicide of a loved one, grief, sudden death, divorce,and many others.
Recommended by the Washingtonian Magazine as one of the Washington DC area's top trauma therapists, Tom Golden LCSW has been helping people move through crisis for over 25 years. Tom works with men, women, couples and children helping people find stability in the chaos whether the chaos is related to divorce, death or some other life crisis. His book Swallowed by a Snake: The Gift of the Masculine Side of Healing expressed the idea that each of us have a healing gift that is often overlooked or misunderstood.
He works with people healing from many different traumas including childhood abuse, suicide of a loved one, grief, sudden death, divorce,and many others.
Recommended by the Washingtonian Magazine as one of the Washington DC area's top trauma therapists, Tom Golden LCSW has been helping people move through crisis for over 25 years. Tom works with men, women, couples and children helping people find stability in the chaos whether the chaos is related to divorce, death or some other life crisis. His book Swallowed by a Snake: The Gift of the Masculine Side of Healing expressed the idea that each of us have a healing gift that is often overlooked or misunderstood.
(301) 288-3197 View (301) 288-3197
Photo of Dr. Shoshana Ringel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Dr. Shoshana Ringel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I value a therapeutic relationship based on warmth, safety, understanding and deep recognition of your authentic self. I validate and nurture your unique self expression and creativity. I have been a therapist for over 20 years, and use my training in trauma informed therapy, IFS, psychodynamic and attachment perspectives to help transform your relationship with others, deepen your emotional life, and reconnect to internal parts of yourself. I utilize AEDP and mindfulness to facilitate the healing of grief, loss, and attachment wounds. To undo aloneness. I emphasize self inquiry and the connection of body, mind. and spirit
I value a therapeutic relationship based on warmth, safety, understanding and deep recognition of your authentic self. I validate and nurture your unique self expression and creativity. I have been a therapist for over 20 years, and use my training in trauma informed therapy, IFS, psychodynamic and attachment perspectives to help transform your relationship with others, deepen your emotional life, and reconnect to internal parts of yourself. I utilize AEDP and mindfulness to facilitate the healing of grief, loss, and attachment wounds. To undo aloneness. I emphasize self inquiry and the connection of body, mind. and spirit
(410) 793-1493 View (410) 793-1493
Photo of Joselyn Brown, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Joselyn Brown
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
My ideal client presents depressive symptoms related to trauma & grief. They express that they want to process unresolved childhood issues. They express that the issues have prevented close relationships with their adult children. They want forgiveness and help in creating better ties. The goal may be to explore & resolve issues related to traumatic events and improve overall mood. Interventions may include sharing details of the event and how it has affected their relationships, using positive self-talk, developing positive coping skills, and identifying effective strategies to communicate thoughts and feelings.
My ideal client presents depressive symptoms related to trauma & grief. They express that they want to process unresolved childhood issues. They express that the issues have prevented close relationships with their adult children. They want forgiveness and help in creating better ties. The goal may be to explore & resolve issues related to traumatic events and improve overall mood. Interventions may include sharing details of the event and how it has affected their relationships, using positive self-talk, developing positive coping skills, and identifying effective strategies to communicate thoughts and feelings.
(240) 474-0949 View (240) 474-0949
Photo of Apricity Wellness Counseling, Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Apricity Wellness Counseling
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
I have been able to work with adolescents and their families to assist in reducing test anxiety, school phobia, stress, grief and loss, school difficulties, abuse, addictions, and relationship issues.
In all stages of life there are storms, we do not have to figure out or face our struggles and road blocks alone. When a circumstance, situation, or event arises it can feel like you are alone, lost, or misunderstood; I am here to listen and walk with you on your journey. Stress, anxiety, worry, depression can reroute your path from unexpected, unanticipated, and even planned events. Together we can build skills, explore your strengths, access the power within, and process your emotions to heal, balance the hard times, and weather storms along your journey.
I have been able to work with adolescents and their families to assist in reducing test anxiety, school phobia, stress, grief and loss, school difficulties, abuse, addictions, and relationship issues.
In all stages of life there are storms, we do not have to figure out or face our struggles and road blocks alone. When a circumstance, situation, or event arises it can feel like you are alone, lost, or misunderstood; I am here to listen and walk with you on your journey. Stress, anxiety, worry, depression can reroute your path from unexpected, unanticipated, and even planned events. Together we can build skills, explore your strengths, access the power within, and process your emotions to heal, balance the hard times, and weather storms along your journey.
(240) 720-2718 View (240) 720-2718
Photo of Insightful Minds Clinical Services, LLC. , Psychologist in Gaithersburg, MD
Insightful Minds Clinical Services, LLC.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20883  (Online Only)
Many people wonder if there is someone who can work through trauma, anxiety, women's issues, quality of life issues, sexuality, questioning spirituality, dissatisfaction with life, stress, grief, unsatisfactory relationship, family issues, and emotional difficulties.
Welcome! I am Dr. Katrina Williams! Often life can seem overwhelming and lead to feelings of frustration and low hope for positive change. It takes courage to face challenges in relationships, career development, and knowing what you want in life. I incorporate evidenced-based approaches while promoting learning, exploring, self-empathy, growth, empowerment, and balance. Through the process I also offer steps toward building your own personalized therapy book to be used in daily life in becoming the person you want to be! The ultimate goal being to take steps on the path that leads you to explore the life you desire to live.
Many people wonder if there is someone who can work through trauma, anxiety, women's issues, quality of life issues, sexuality, questioning spirituality, dissatisfaction with life, stress, grief, unsatisfactory relationship, family issues, and emotional difficulties.
Welcome! I am Dr. Katrina Williams! Often life can seem overwhelming and lead to feelings of frustration and low hope for positive change. It takes courage to face challenges in relationships, career development, and knowing what you want in life. I incorporate evidenced-based approaches while promoting learning, exploring, self-empathy, growth, empowerment, and balance. Through the process I also offer steps toward building your own personalized therapy book to be used in daily life in becoming the person you want to be! The ultimate goal being to take steps on the path that leads you to explore the life you desire to live.
(571) 339-5229 View (571) 339-5229
Photo of Lindsey Montano, Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Lindsey Montano
Counselor, LGPC, LGP1328
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I’ve worked with many kids, teens, & adults struggling with negative patterns, hard life transitions, and grief.
Do you feel misunderstood or that you can’t let anyone see who you really are? Maybe you can’t understand why your thoughts and feelings are always trying to take you hostage? Locking away who you are has made it difficult to connect with others and left you feeling alone. I love to give people the freedom to embrace and understand their emotions. As your guide, you will begin to drop the fear and exhaustion of trying to keep it all together so perfectly & embrace your own truth. You will begin to accept and love yourself just as you are!
As a therapist, I’ve worked with many kids, teens, & adults struggling with negative patterns, hard life transitions, and grief.
Do you feel misunderstood or that you can’t let anyone see who you really are? Maybe you can’t understand why your thoughts and feelings are always trying to take you hostage? Locking away who you are has made it difficult to connect with others and left you feeling alone. I love to give people the freedom to embrace and understand their emotions. As your guide, you will begin to drop the fear and exhaustion of trying to keep it all together so perfectly & embrace your own truth. You will begin to accept and love yourself just as you are!
(301) 321-8360 View (301) 321-8360
Photo of Jessica M. Riser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Jessica M. Riser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20898  (Online Only)
Hey Hi! I'm Jess. I think of myself as a compassionate and dedicated social worker and therapist focused on helping individuals navigate complex – and often challenging – landscapes of emotion. I have 15 years’ experience in the field, working with a vast range of mental health concerns (anxiety, depression/mood disorders, adjusting to life changes, etc). My main area of interest is supporting parents (esp. through pregnancy and infant loss, and the grief that inevitably follows). My primary goal is to provide a safe and nurturing space for my clients to share, heal, grow, and expand their inner wisdom and incredible strengths.
Hey Hi! I'm Jess. I think of myself as a compassionate and dedicated social worker and therapist focused on helping individuals navigate complex – and often challenging – landscapes of emotion. I have 15 years’ experience in the field, working with a vast range of mental health concerns (anxiety, depression/mood disorders, adjusting to life changes, etc). My main area of interest is supporting parents (esp. through pregnancy and infant loss, and the grief that inevitably follows). My primary goal is to provide a safe and nurturing space for my clients to share, heal, grow, and expand their inner wisdom and incredible strengths.
(240) 734-3089 View (240) 734-3089
Photo of Christina Chacko, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Christina Chacko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Life happens to all of us; stressors are inevitable, unresolved feelings may arise and it can all be just a little bit overwhelming. Despite our best efforts we may find ourselves overly stressed, alone, anxious, or just tired. Whether it’s dealing with a transition, a loss, a tragedy, a relationship, or just the daily highs and lows, we all deserve a place to decompress and process what life throws at us. Maybe this is a tough season for you, or maybe you just need support as you work on your goals. Therapy should act as both a safe space filled with warmth and compassion, and a brave space that challenges and empowers.
Life happens to all of us; stressors are inevitable, unresolved feelings may arise and it can all be just a little bit overwhelming. Despite our best efforts we may find ourselves overly stressed, alone, anxious, or just tired. Whether it’s dealing with a transition, a loss, a tragedy, a relationship, or just the daily highs and lows, we all deserve a place to decompress and process what life throws at us. Maybe this is a tough season for you, or maybe you just need support as you work on your goals. Therapy should act as both a safe space filled with warmth and compassion, and a brave space that challenges and empowers.
(301) 804-2436 View (301) 804-2436
Photo of Stephanie Vancek Castro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Stephanie Vancek Castro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I work with a range of life obstacles - depression, anxiety, trauma, marriage counseling, relationship issues, life changes, grief and loss, stress, pandemic-induced issues and more.
Welcome to therapy! There may be some mixed feelings about getting started but note this as a great defining moment in your life, taking time to care for you, this took courage & determination! Mental health is a crucial part of our overall health and yet it is often neglected by default. I want to help more people prioritize their mental health promoting wellness and living a fulfilled life. I think of myself as a support in your journey helping you unlock your answers. I provide a warm nourishing therapy space for you to feel welcomed and cared for. I hope to be your support in your healing journey.
I work with a range of life obstacles - depression, anxiety, trauma, marriage counseling, relationship issues, life changes, grief and loss, stress, pandemic-induced issues and more.
Welcome to therapy! There may be some mixed feelings about getting started but note this as a great defining moment in your life, taking time to care for you, this took courage & determination! Mental health is a crucial part of our overall health and yet it is often neglected by default. I want to help more people prioritize their mental health promoting wellness and living a fulfilled life. I think of myself as a support in your journey helping you unlock your answers. I provide a warm nourishing therapy space for you to feel welcomed and cared for. I hope to be your support in your healing journey.
(410) 705-7040 View (410) 705-7040
Photo of Cheryl Torpey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Cheryl Torpey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
We at Finding Clarity believe your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health and well being. Just as you would see your primary doctor to maintain your physical health, counseling is here to help maintain your emotional health. I provide counseling to help individuals and their loved ones address various life issues including (but not limited to): adjustment to life transitions, end of life care, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, boundaries and PTSD issues.
We at Finding Clarity believe your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health and well being. Just as you would see your primary doctor to maintain your physical health, counseling is here to help maintain your emotional health. I provide counseling to help individuals and their loved ones address various life issues including (but not limited to): adjustment to life transitions, end of life care, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, boundaries and PTSD issues.
(240) 617-4159 View (240) 617-4159
Photo of Jasmine Lamboy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Jasmine Lamboy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I am a masters prepared psychotherapist with three years of experience in therapy. My specialities include trauma work, cognitive behavioral therapy, and loss and grief work along with a vast knowledge in a multitude of different mental health concerns. I have a great deal of experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community and the Polyamorous/Non-monogamous community, and I specialize in family and couples therapy, along with sex therapy.
I am a masters prepared psychotherapist with three years of experience in therapy. My specialities include trauma work, cognitive behavioral therapy, and loss and grief work along with a vast knowledge in a multitude of different mental health concerns. I have a great deal of experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community and the Polyamorous/Non-monogamous community, and I specialize in family and couples therapy, along with sex therapy.
(301) 321-7524 View (301) 321-7524
Photo of Amelia Hutchins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Amelia Hutchins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Amelia Hutchins, LCSW-C, is a licensed clinical social worker who has expertise working with adults, adolescents, and children from different backgrounds in terms of race, ethnicity, culture, religion/spirituality, gender identity, and sexual orientation. Amelia is also specialized in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, relational difficulties, and difficult life transitions. Amelia's ultimate passion is to help you fulfill your mental wellness goals and needs.
Amelia Hutchins, LCSW-C, is a licensed clinical social worker who has expertise working with adults, adolescents, and children from different backgrounds in terms of race, ethnicity, culture, religion/spirituality, gender identity, and sexual orientation. Amelia is also specialized in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, relational difficulties, and difficult life transitions. Amelia's ultimate passion is to help you fulfill your mental wellness goals and needs.
(240) 201-2039 View (240) 201-2039
Photo of Augusta Sannoh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Augusta Sannoh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Difficult parent-child relationships, single motherhood, impact of divorced parents, apathy in relationships, career transitions, immigrant issues, grief and loss and abandonment are my areas of specialty. We'll determine how to manage the impact of your experiences and symptoms, thoughts, behaviors, mood and relationship. I administer assessments, diagnose and work with clients to identify ways to manage or eliminate anxiety, depression, pregnancy and childbirth, mood disorders and more. If you are navigating transitions, grief, divorce, empty nesting, challenging relationships or work stress, I can support you.
Difficult parent-child relationships, single motherhood, impact of divorced parents, apathy in relationships, career transitions, immigrant issues, grief and loss and abandonment are my areas of specialty. We'll determine how to manage the impact of your experiences and symptoms, thoughts, behaviors, mood and relationship. I administer assessments, diagnose and work with clients to identify ways to manage or eliminate anxiety, depression, pregnancy and childbirth, mood disorders and more. If you are navigating transitions, grief, divorce, empty nesting, challenging relationships or work stress, I can support you.
(301) 701-4662 View (301) 701-4662
Photo of Mirshelle Edwards, Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Mirshelle Edwards
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
My clients are looking develop insight and gain skills to manage anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-worth, adulthood, ADHD, immigrant and cultural identity, mood disorders, experiences, school/work stress, relationships, socializing and difficult transitions. We'll explore the effects of relational dynamics, early life experiences, thought and behavior patterns, culture and identity, transitions and family of origin. We'll identify triggers, understand how the past affects and informs the present, improve ability to regulate, and uncover patterns/trauma that impact you and implement new cognitive and behavior patterns.
My clients are looking develop insight and gain skills to manage anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-worth, adulthood, ADHD, immigrant and cultural identity, mood disorders, experiences, school/work stress, relationships, socializing and difficult transitions. We'll explore the effects of relational dynamics, early life experiences, thought and behavior patterns, culture and identity, transitions and family of origin. We'll identify triggers, understand how the past affects and informs the present, improve ability to regulate, and uncover patterns/trauma that impact you and implement new cognitive and behavior patterns.
(240) 202-2667 View (240) 202-2667
Photo of Marvida Lake, Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Marvida Lake
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Pregnancy and motherhood, life transitions, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ identity, career stress, relationships issues, trauma, self worth, worry and overwhelm and concentration issues are my areas of clinical expertise. I use Trauma Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to decrease and manage the frequency, duration and intensity of their symptoms.  I'll incorporate your values, identities, faith and cultural practices and belief systems. We will identify symptoms and implement long-term coping strategies that are practical for your personality and lifestyle.
Pregnancy and motherhood, life transitions, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ identity, career stress, relationships issues, trauma, self worth, worry and overwhelm and concentration issues are my areas of clinical expertise. I use Trauma Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to decrease and manage the frequency, duration and intensity of their symptoms.  I'll incorporate your values, identities, faith and cultural practices and belief systems. We will identify symptoms and implement long-term coping strategies that are practical for your personality and lifestyle.
(240) 202-2677 View (240) 202-2677
Photo of Susan Schwerd, Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Susan Schwerd
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877  (Online Only)
My practice focuses on supporting clients with relationship upheavals; mood disorders; anger & stress management; emotional self- regulation; trauma; chronic pain, medical illness & physical injury; grief & loss, and difficult life transitions.
My goal is to facilitate your healing, growth, and transformation. Rooted in the psychodynamic orientation, my therapeutic approach is "active eclectic", utilizing cognitive behavioral, Adlerian, and solution-focused interventions. I facilitate change by helping clients understand the underlying reasons why they feel conflicted and by helping identify patterns of behavior that are keeping them stuck. Together we work to develop new ways to respond to present day challenges.
My practice focuses on supporting clients with relationship upheavals; mood disorders; anger & stress management; emotional self- regulation; trauma; chronic pain, medical illness & physical injury; grief & loss, and difficult life transitions.
My goal is to facilitate your healing, growth, and transformation. Rooted in the psychodynamic orientation, my therapeutic approach is "active eclectic", utilizing cognitive behavioral, Adlerian, and solution-focused interventions. I facilitate change by helping clients understand the underlying reasons why they feel conflicted and by helping identify patterns of behavior that are keeping them stuck. Together we work to develop new ways to respond to present day challenges.
(301) 701-2796 View (301) 701-2796
Photo of Karo Beygzadeh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Karo Beygzadeh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
My clients gain insight, process their experiences and gain culturally sensitive skills to manage anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression, and PTSD. We'll also explore and address stress related to work, transitions, shame, guilt, self-esteem, disappointment, isolation, communication, relationships (any configuration), identity, culture, trauma, grief, and loss. I work closely with each person to develop personalized treatment plans that target specific symptoms, needs, and goals. As a Middle Eastern & Kurdish immigrant, I also understand how the intersection of cultures, religions, and customs can affect people.
My clients gain insight, process their experiences and gain culturally sensitive skills to manage anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression, and PTSD. We'll also explore and address stress related to work, transitions, shame, guilt, self-esteem, disappointment, isolation, communication, relationships (any configuration), identity, culture, trauma, grief, and loss. I work closely with each person to develop personalized treatment plans that target specific symptoms, needs, and goals. As a Middle Eastern & Kurdish immigrant, I also understand how the intersection of cultures, religions, and customs can affect people.
(301) 781-7942 View (301) 781-7942
Photo of Alem Asefa, Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Alem Asefa
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Individuals looking to manage or eliminate depression, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, low self-esteem, health challenges, career stress, relationship issues, grief and loss, identity/immigrant experiences and transitions work with me to identify and implement strategies to manage or eliminate stress and distress. Through identifying, understanding and evaluating emotional states, thinking and behavior patterns we eliminate and replace unproductive habits with more adaptive patterns toward an increased sense of well-being and ability to thrive and function satisfactorily.
Individuals looking to manage or eliminate depression, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, low self-esteem, health challenges, career stress, relationship issues, grief and loss, identity/immigrant experiences and transitions work with me to identify and implement strategies to manage or eliminate stress and distress. Through identifying, understanding and evaluating emotional states, thinking and behavior patterns we eliminate and replace unproductive habits with more adaptive patterns toward an increased sense of well-being and ability to thrive and function satisfactorily.
(240) 221-5216 View (240) 221-5216
Photo of Andrew Bock, Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Andrew Bock
Counselor, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I have experience working with children and adults suffering from anxiety, grief, peer conflicts, struggling with social skills, depression and trauma. I’ve helped clients cope with life changes, family divorce, school related concerns and more. Whether you are dealing with a specific challenge or simply looking to enhance your overall well-being, I am here to help you thrive and achieve your goals.
I have experience working with children and adults suffering from anxiety, grief, peer conflicts, struggling with social skills, depression and trauma. I’ve helped clients cope with life changes, family divorce, school related concerns and more. Whether you are dealing with a specific challenge or simply looking to enhance your overall well-being, I am here to help you thrive and achieve your goals.
(240) 339-6271 View (240) 339-6271

See more therapy options for Gaithersburg


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.