Grief Therapists in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO

Photo of KEYte to Change EMDR, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
KEYte to Change EMDR, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO 63104
Many of us are going through tremendous change and loss during this pandemic, which can be triggering of the past.
Have you experienced trauma in your life and seem to struggle with the same situations over and over, not knowing how to stop the vicious cycle. Are your emotions problematic, do you repeat unhealthy behaviors, relationships, have an onslaught of negative thoughts and no matter how successful you have become, you feel like a fake, insecure and if people really knew? How many times have you promised that you will stop, alcohol, drugs and really mean it, want it, yet once again fall short. As a veteran, were you in combat, was your military experience depleting, anxiety provoking and your life never the same? What keeps you stuck?
Many of us are going through tremendous change and loss during this pandemic, which can be triggering of the past.
Have you experienced trauma in your life and seem to struggle with the same situations over and over, not knowing how to stop the vicious cycle. Are your emotions problematic, do you repeat unhealthy behaviors, relationships, have an onslaught of negative thoughts and no matter how successful you have become, you feel like a fake, insecure and if people really knew? How many times have you promised that you will stop, alcohol, drugs and really mean it, want it, yet once again fall short. As a veteran, were you in combat, was your military experience depleting, anxiety provoking and your life never the same? What keeps you stuck?
(314) 652-3538 View (314) 652-3538
Photo of Dr. Christine Woods, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Dr. Christine Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO 63104
"It's okay not to be okay!" Sometimes all you need is to give yourself permission to not be okay. There are moments in our lives when facing issues alone is not enough and it becomes difficult to navigate life's circumstances. That's where I step in. If you are suffering from trauma, grief, life stressors, relationship conflict, depression, or anxiety, I work with you at your point of need.
"It's okay not to be okay!" Sometimes all you need is to give yourself permission to not be okay. There are moments in our lives when facing issues alone is not enough and it becomes difficult to navigate life's circumstances. That's where I step in. If you are suffering from trauma, grief, life stressors, relationship conflict, depression, or anxiety, I work with you at your point of need.
(573) 260-1603 View (573) 260-1603
Photo of Christopher Vollmer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Christopher Vollmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSW-G, ACHP-SW, CDP, PEL
Verified Verified
McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO 63104
Life can be difficult. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and to lose our sense of well-being and security. We look around each day and wonder why other people seem to have no trouble living life free from the sort of difficulties with which we struggle. We can begin to feel hopeless. But there is something inside each and every one of us, something beautiful and strong that cannot be touched by our trauma and recurring troubles, but can be obscured by them. Reconnecting with this part of ourselves in a safe, healing atmosphere can help us meet life’s challenges with a greater measure of peace with ourselves and the world.
Life can be difficult. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and to lose our sense of well-being and security. We look around each day and wonder why other people seem to have no trouble living life free from the sort of difficulties with which we struggle. We can begin to feel hopeless. But there is something inside each and every one of us, something beautiful and strong that cannot be touched by our trauma and recurring troubles, but can be obscured by them. Reconnecting with this part of ourselves in a safe, healing atmosphere can help us meet life’s challenges with a greater measure of peace with ourselves and the world.
(618) 230-4620 View (618) 230-4620
Photo of Margaret A. Howard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Margaret A. Howard, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MFA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO 63104  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with anxiety, feelings of being overwhelmed by life and the state of the world? Do you feel that past events may be getting in the way of your experience of joy and wonder? Do you long for connection to yourself, others, nature and the Land, but aren't sure how to get there? You're not alone. Now more than ever, pushing away our needs and feelings and powering through to please others or just survive is leading to long-term impacts on mind, body, spirit, and relationships. Through 100% virtual sessions in Illinois, Colorado, and Missouri, I am here to help you find a better way. (Explore more on my website.)
Do you struggle with anxiety, feelings of being overwhelmed by life and the state of the world? Do you feel that past events may be getting in the way of your experience of joy and wonder? Do you long for connection to yourself, others, nature and the Land, but aren't sure how to get there? You're not alone. Now more than ever, pushing away our needs and feelings and powering through to please others or just survive is leading to long-term impacts on mind, body, spirit, and relationships. Through 100% virtual sessions in Illinois, Colorado, and Missouri, I am here to help you find a better way. (Explore more on my website.)
(618) 221-5255 View (618) 221-5255
Photo of Emily Klamer, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Emily Klamer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO 63104
I work with individuals who feel a full and meaningful life remains painfully out of reach despite all that may be otherwise going quite well for them. I work with those who are struggling with inhibition, self-sabotage, depression, and anxiety. I have worked with medical professionals, social workers, and other psychotherapists; artists and writers; professors, ministers, and community organizers. A common thread is a recognition that we each have an unconscious and could all use support in exploring what is occurring beyond our awareness, especially when our own efforts to shift painful patterns have not been fruitful.
I work with individuals who feel a full and meaningful life remains painfully out of reach despite all that may be otherwise going quite well for them. I work with those who are struggling with inhibition, self-sabotage, depression, and anxiety. I have worked with medical professionals, social workers, and other psychotherapists; artists and writers; professors, ministers, and community organizers. A common thread is a recognition that we each have an unconscious and could all use support in exploring what is occurring beyond our awareness, especially when our own efforts to shift painful patterns have not been fruitful.
(314) 310-3840 View (314) 310-3840
Photo of Meghan Gaffney, Pre-Licensed Professional in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Meghan Gaffney
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO 63104
As someone who values genuineness, compassion, and transparency, I aim to create a space where clients can be vulnerable and authentically themselves. I feel healing occurs when client’s feel seen, supported, and validated. You can expect curiosity, passion, and informality to show up in my approach. I believe in meeting each client at where they're at in their journey. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, communication problems, and adjustment issues.
As someone who values genuineness, compassion, and transparency, I aim to create a space where clients can be vulnerable and authentically themselves. I feel healing occurs when client’s feel seen, supported, and validated. You can expect curiosity, passion, and informality to show up in my approach. I believe in meeting each client at where they're at in their journey. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, communication problems, and adjustment issues.
(314) 310-1870 View (314) 310-1870
Photo of Diana Gregory, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Diana Gregory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO 63104  (Online Only)
"Leave me alone", "You don't get it", "It's not the same as when you were a kid". Parenting can feel insurmountable, but for teens who feel misunderstood, alone, helpless, or afraid, talking to a parent may feel intimidating or counterintuitive. As a parent, grandparent, single parent, co parent, god parent, extended relative you may feel that you have run out of ideas and things to try. You have options! Contact me to help bridge the communication gap between you and your teen/tween. We already have one thing in common and that's wanting the best for you and your family!
"Leave me alone", "You don't get it", "It's not the same as when you were a kid". Parenting can feel insurmountable, but for teens who feel misunderstood, alone, helpless, or afraid, talking to a parent may feel intimidating or counterintuitive. As a parent, grandparent, single parent, co parent, god parent, extended relative you may feel that you have run out of ideas and things to try. You have options! Contact me to help bridge the communication gap between you and your teen/tween. We already have one thing in common and that's wanting the best for you and your family!
(314) 912-2157 View (314) 912-2157
Photo of Amanda Sneed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Amanda Sneed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO 63104  (Online Only)
My ideal client is anyone that is seeking change and looking to create more balance in their life. My goal is to create a normalcy in the process of finding support during times when we need clarity. Whether or not there is an identified focus, I will walk individuals through gaining awareness and increasing skills to enhance life functioning through a client centered and empowerment focus. My experience includes working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self esteem, difficult life transitions, trauma (including working with women in a domestic violence shelter.
My ideal client is anyone that is seeking change and looking to create more balance in their life. My goal is to create a normalcy in the process of finding support during times when we need clarity. Whether or not there is an identified focus, I will walk individuals through gaining awareness and increasing skills to enhance life functioning through a client centered and empowerment focus. My experience includes working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self esteem, difficult life transitions, trauma (including working with women in a domestic violence shelter.
(224) 434-4607 View (224) 434-4607
Photo of Jordan Ferguson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Jordan Ferguson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, She/Her
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO 63104
Struggling with anxiety, irritability, depression, or navigating a life transition? Are your relationships feeling the impact? Living in a society that minimizes self-compassion, slowing down, and tuning into our bodies makes it hard to feel connected to ourselves and those around us. Add in traumatic life experiences and the world can easily become overwhelming leading our nervous systems to shift into states of survival. I work to create a non-judgmental space to explore these themes and strengthen the connection within yourself, your relationships, and the world around you.
Struggling with anxiety, irritability, depression, or navigating a life transition? Are your relationships feeling the impact? Living in a society that minimizes self-compassion, slowing down, and tuning into our bodies makes it hard to feel connected to ourselves and those around us. Add in traumatic life experiences and the world can easily become overwhelming leading our nervous systems to shift into states of survival. I work to create a non-judgmental space to explore these themes and strengthen the connection within yourself, your relationships, and the world around you.
(314) 789-3834 View (314) 789-3834
Photo of Trecia K Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Trecia K Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO 63104
Not accepting new clients
You are tired of fighting, having to explain yourself, being disappointed, and grieving the life you planned as a child. Parenting is one of the HARDEST and most fulfilling experiences that one can have in this lifetime, but it can sometimes feel like a constant battle. If you toss in co-parenting with an ex-partner, trying to integrate a new partner into your "ready-made" family, and/or being a caregiver to a family member due to unfavorable circumstances, things get a lot more complicated. Being the child in these situations, can be even harder to navigate because everything can feel so unstable. All of it feels exhausting!
You are tired of fighting, having to explain yourself, being disappointed, and grieving the life you planned as a child. Parenting is one of the HARDEST and most fulfilling experiences that one can have in this lifetime, but it can sometimes feel like a constant battle. If you toss in co-parenting with an ex-partner, trying to integrate a new partner into your "ready-made" family, and/or being a caregiver to a family member due to unfavorable circumstances, things get a lot more complicated. Being the child in these situations, can be even harder to navigate because everything can feel so unstable. All of it feels exhausting!
(314) 309-3367 View (314) 309-3367
Photo of Jessica Crunkleton, Counselor in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Jessica Crunkleton
Counselor, LMFT, LCPC, LPC, CADAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO 63104
Not accepting new clients
My mission is to provide clients of all ages with a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can truly feel heard, respected, & empowered. I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Mental Health Counselor, Certified EMDR Therapist, & Sandtray Therapist. I treat a variety of issues. I believe clients want a therapist who is genuine, compassionate, trustworthy, smart, & funny. They want a therapist who cares about them, wants to hear their story, supports them through the "hard" stuff, teaches them tools to solve problems on their own, celebrates their wins, & helps with accountablity when needed. If this sounds like you, let's talk.
My mission is to provide clients of all ages with a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can truly feel heard, respected, & empowered. I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Mental Health Counselor, Certified EMDR Therapist, & Sandtray Therapist. I treat a variety of issues. I believe clients want a therapist who is genuine, compassionate, trustworthy, smart, & funny. They want a therapist who cares about them, wants to hear their story, supports them through the "hard" stuff, teaches them tools to solve problems on their own, celebrates their wins, & helps with accountablity when needed. If this sounds like you, let's talk.
(618) 423-8279 View (618) 423-8279
Photo of Dr. Claire Martin - Spring To Life Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Dr. Claire Martin - Spring To Life Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO 63104  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
We have all experienced adversities at some point in our life; sometimes these adversities leave us defeated, wondering how we can gather our strengths to move pass these falls. The journey seems unpredictable at times and we forget that we have what it takes within us to recover from those adversities. As your counselor, my goal is to be alongside you in this journey of searching for the strength that is within you to not only overcome these adversities but also to help you understand how you’ve come to develop these patterns of behaviors that no longer serve you well.
We have all experienced adversities at some point in our life; sometimes these adversities leave us defeated, wondering how we can gather our strengths to move pass these falls. The journey seems unpredictable at times and we forget that we have what it takes within us to recover from those adversities. As your counselor, my goal is to be alongside you in this journey of searching for the strength that is within you to not only overcome these adversities but also to help you understand how you’ve come to develop these patterns of behaviors that no longer serve you well.
(314) 876-8592 View (314) 876-8592

Online Therapists

Photo of Doris Wild Helmering, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Doris Wild Helmering
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63131
I’ve authored nine self-help books on marriage, relationships and weight loss including a weekly newspaper column for 24-years for the St.
I believe almost all problems are solvable. If you decide to see me for therapy, the first thing I'll probably ask is, "What's going on? Why have you come?" Perhaps you're having difficulty with a relationship or your struggling with a child or your weight. You may be trying to decide if you want to continue in a relationship or look for another job. Or you've noticed that you're drinking too much or getting too angry or obsessing. Maybe you're feeling anxious, depressed or lonely, and despite your best efforts, you can't seem to shake these feelings.
I’ve authored nine self-help books on marriage, relationships and weight loss including a weekly newspaper column for 24-years for the St.
I believe almost all problems are solvable. If you decide to see me for therapy, the first thing I'll probably ask is, "What's going on? Why have you come?" Perhaps you're having difficulty with a relationship or your struggling with a child or your weight. You may be trying to decide if you want to continue in a relationship or look for another job. Or you've noticed that you're drinking too much or getting too angry or obsessing. Maybe you're feeling anxious, depressed or lonely, and despite your best efforts, you can't seem to shake these feelings.
(636) 238-1854 View (636) 238-1854
Photo of Liza Albidress, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Liza Albidress
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63123
Hello! My name is Liza, and I provide trauma sensitive therapy for anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, and chronic health/pain issues. I am certified in MBSR (mindfulness based stress reduction) from UMASS Medical School and also have received a post-graduate trauma therapy certification from Bessel van der Kolk at the Trauma Center in Boston. I am a 500 hour RYT (registered yoga teacher) with a practice focus on combining cognitive-based therapies with body-based, meditative practices in order to guide clients on how to better cope with life's challenges and feel safe, secure.... "at home" in their bodies.
Hello! My name is Liza, and I provide trauma sensitive therapy for anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, and chronic health/pain issues. I am certified in MBSR (mindfulness based stress reduction) from UMASS Medical School and also have received a post-graduate trauma therapy certification from Bessel van der Kolk at the Trauma Center in Boston. I am a 500 hour RYT (registered yoga teacher) with a practice focus on combining cognitive-based therapies with body-based, meditative practices in order to guide clients on how to better cope with life's challenges and feel safe, secure.... "at home" in their bodies.
(636) 251-4749 View (636) 251-4749
Photo of Clayton A. Clark, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Clayton A. Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Something’s not right, and maybe it hasn’t been for a while, but you know it’s time to make some changes. If you (or you & your partner) need help making that change, I’d be honored to work with you. I take a flexible approach, bringing thoughtfulness and creativity to the process to meet you where you are. Here are areas I help people with most often: anxiety & stress, depression, couples counseling (Gottman Method), trauma (Brainspotting), career counseling & life design, substance use & addiction, men's issues, life transitions, anger, mindfulness, and grief.
Something’s not right, and maybe it hasn’t been for a while, but you know it’s time to make some changes. If you (or you & your partner) need help making that change, I’d be honored to work with you. I take a flexible approach, bringing thoughtfulness and creativity to the process to meet you where you are. Here are areas I help people with most often: anxiety & stress, depression, couples counseling (Gottman Method), trauma (Brainspotting), career counseling & life design, substance use & addiction, men's issues, life transitions, anger, mindfulness, and grief.
(314) 666-6308 View (314) 666-6308
Photo of Andy Kerckhoff, Counselor in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Andy Kerckhoff
Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63129
I help individuals with depression, anxiety, anger, addiction, trauma, grief, or shame. Many of my clients are in major life transitions. I help people become more aware of their emotional responses to stressors and to find better ways to manage their inner lives. I can help you become more empowered to make wiser decisions with a stronger sense of self, so you will be more satisfied with your life.
I help individuals with depression, anxiety, anger, addiction, trauma, grief, or shame. Many of my clients are in major life transitions. I help people become more aware of their emotional responses to stressors and to find better ways to manage their inner lives. I can help you become more empowered to make wiser decisions with a stronger sense of self, so you will be more satisfied with your life.
(636) 215-6600 View (636) 215-6600
Photo of Hannah Paul, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Hannah Paul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63146  (Online Only)
I am a trauma-focused therapist by training, and I have worked with many clients who have experienced sexual violence, unhealthy intimate partner relationship dynamics, childhood neglect or abuse, religious trauma, and grief.
It is so exciting to me that you are looking for a therapist! Are you trying & struggling to make some big life decisions, or trying to figure out why it’s hard to trust or feel connected with yourself? Feeling like it might be helpful or necessary to (finally) process complicated or upsetting events from your past that you’ve been working hard to just move on from? Wanting to process an experience in a religious setting that felt confusing or upsetting, examine your relationship with a spiritual/religious organization, or explore the ways that religious influences have impacted your relationships and identity development?
I am a trauma-focused therapist by training, and I have worked with many clients who have experienced sexual violence, unhealthy intimate partner relationship dynamics, childhood neglect or abuse, religious trauma, and grief.
It is so exciting to me that you are looking for a therapist! Are you trying & struggling to make some big life decisions, or trying to figure out why it’s hard to trust or feel connected with yourself? Feeling like it might be helpful or necessary to (finally) process complicated or upsetting events from your past that you’ve been working hard to just move on from? Wanting to process an experience in a religious setting that felt confusing or upsetting, examine your relationship with a spiritual/religious organization, or explore the ways that religious influences have impacted your relationships and identity development?
(314) 451-7829 View (314) 451-7829
Photo of Maggi M Geisz, Pre-Licensed Professional in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Maggi M Geisz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63122
My areas of expertise are: Youth ages 5-18, ADHD, Anxiety, Family Changes (divorce/separation), grief/loss, social/emotional/behavioral concerns.
Each person & child are incredibly unique individuals. As adults, our job is to provide children with tools so they may blossom into the most successful version of themselves. Adults, though, may also need support in their lives! Being a former college athlete & high school athletic coach, I am also extremely passionate about helping high school & collegiate student athletes elevate their craft, manage performance anxiety, & experience fulfillment across all settings. Together, we will work to identify goals related to you or your child's overall well-being & develop strategies to overcome any obstacles that may arise along the way.
My areas of expertise are: Youth ages 5-18, ADHD, Anxiety, Family Changes (divorce/separation), grief/loss, social/emotional/behavioral concerns.
Each person & child are incredibly unique individuals. As adults, our job is to provide children with tools so they may blossom into the most successful version of themselves. Adults, though, may also need support in their lives! Being a former college athlete & high school athletic coach, I am also extremely passionate about helping high school & collegiate student athletes elevate their craft, manage performance anxiety, & experience fulfillment across all settings. Together, we will work to identify goals related to you or your child's overall well-being & develop strategies to overcome any obstacles that may arise along the way.
(314) 886-8649 View (314) 886-8649
Photo of Dr. Pamela Weaver, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
Dr. Pamela Weaver
Licensed Professional Counselor, DCoun, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141
I'm passionate about supporting and helping grieving individuals as they adjust to life after loss.
Life can be challenging. Sometimes we could use someone to help us navigate the challenges and obstacles that come our way. Whether you're struggling with stress, overwhelm, grief, anxiety, depression, relationships, parenting, school, decisions, navigating transitions, or feeling "stuck" in life, there is hope. Things can be different than they are right now. I help individuals develop effective ways to cope with life's challenges to make the changes they desire.
I'm passionate about supporting and helping grieving individuals as they adjust to life after loss.
Life can be challenging. Sometimes we could use someone to help us navigate the challenges and obstacles that come our way. Whether you're struggling with stress, overwhelm, grief, anxiety, depression, relationships, parenting, school, decisions, navigating transitions, or feeling "stuck" in life, there is hope. Things can be different than they are right now. I help individuals develop effective ways to cope with life's challenges to make the changes they desire.
(636) 306-5749 View (636) 306-5749
Photo of John A Ware, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinley Heights, Saint Louis, MO
John A Ware
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63131
I see my role as one who can help clarify and encourage strategies to strengthen one's ability to navigate through stresses and pain. Together, we can develop plans to deal with challenging issues and life transitions in marriage, family, and professional or work situations. My career and life experiences have provided me with unique real world insights into the issues facing men and women today. I understand people who are coping with the difficult balancing of inter-personal relationships, family relationships, and work-related issues including, with increasing frequency, the stress, anxiety and uncertainty created by job loss or career transition.
I see my role as one who can help clarify and encourage strategies to strengthen one's ability to navigate through stresses and pain. Together, we can develop plans to deal with challenging issues and life transitions in marriage, family, and professional or work situations. My career and life experiences have provided me with unique real world insights into the issues facing men and women today. I understand people who are coping with the difficult balancing of inter-personal relationships, family relationships, and work-related issues including, with increasing frequency, the stress, anxiety and uncertainty created by job loss or career transition.
(314) 596-2940 View (314) 596-2940
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.