Photo of AKB Counseling & Acres of Hope, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Asheboro, NC
AKB Counseling & Acres of Hope
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheboro, NC 27203
I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing transitions in their life, whether it be stress, anxiety, depression or trauma. My job is not to fix your problems but rather to discover ways in which you find your answers. This is your safe place to explore options and speak freely, without judgment. You have the opportunity to utilize traditional talk therapy, mindfulness methods or sharing amongst the horses and nature; the choice is yours. I invite you to pick up the phone and begin claiming your peace.
I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing transitions in their life, whether it be stress, anxiety, depression or trauma. My job is not to fix your problems but rather to discover ways in which you find your answers. This is your safe place to explore options and speak freely, without judgment. You have the opportunity to utilize traditional talk therapy, mindfulness methods or sharing amongst the horses and nature; the choice is yours. I invite you to pick up the phone and begin claiming your peace.
(336) 628-8615 View (336) 628-8615
Photo of Brittney Hryczaniuk, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Asheboro, NC
Brittney Hryczaniuk
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheboro, NC 27203
I’m here to listen, if you’re ready to talk. Even if you’re not quite ready to talk about everything, I’m here to stand beside you while we get it figured out. My approach is about meeting you where you are, hearing your story, and working together to find tools that are specifically tailored to work for you. Above all, I am here to provide warmth, support, empathy, and sometimes (when it’s needed) a gentle kick in the pants to get you to being the most awesome self you can be.
I’m here to listen, if you’re ready to talk. Even if you’re not quite ready to talk about everything, I’m here to stand beside you while we get it figured out. My approach is about meeting you where you are, hearing your story, and working together to find tools that are specifically tailored to work for you. Above all, I am here to provide warmth, support, empathy, and sometimes (when it’s needed) a gentle kick in the pants to get you to being the most awesome self you can be.
(336) 948-1105 View (336) 948-1105
Photo of Amanda Chils, Licensed Professional Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Amanda Chils
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Asheboro, NC 27205
You can grow and heal, despite what you've been through (think flowers blooming through concrete). You're going to feel so much better once you start digging the rot out and healing. I'm an expert at clearing trauma and anxiety, by rewiring your mind and regulating your nervous system. Not only does trauma get healed and processed, but when hard things come up you they feel easy to navigate and you do so with confidence + ease. I don't believe healing has to be hard or take forever, in fact I believe it can be light + fun. With me, you're gonna work but you're also going to laugh and learn to savor this one wild and precious life.
You can grow and heal, despite what you've been through (think flowers blooming through concrete). You're going to feel so much better once you start digging the rot out and healing. I'm an expert at clearing trauma and anxiety, by rewiring your mind and regulating your nervous system. Not only does trauma get healed and processed, but when hard things come up you they feel easy to navigate and you do so with confidence + ease. I don't believe healing has to be hard or take forever, in fact I believe it can be light + fun. With me, you're gonna work but you're also going to laugh and learn to savor this one wild and precious life.
(336) 777-7286 View (336) 777-7286

Online Therapists

Photo of Emily Ortiz Badalamente in Asheboro, NC
Emily Ortiz Badalamente
MA, LCMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
If you're looking for a compassionate setting to work through loss, trauma, or discover your potential, please reach out.
If you're experiencing a major life transition, thinking about making a change, or feeling unfulfilled in your daily life, seeking therapy can help. I understand that change and growth can often be uncomfortable. By working with me, you can expect a safe and understanding place to explore current and past difficulties, process emotions, and achieve holistic wellbeing. I have training in art therapy, mindfulness, meditation, and trauma-informed approaches. I offer traditional talk counseling and art therapy to teens and adults experiencing life transitions, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, and self-esteem issues.
If you're looking for a compassionate setting to work through loss, trauma, or discover your potential, please reach out.
If you're experiencing a major life transition, thinking about making a change, or feeling unfulfilled in your daily life, seeking therapy can help. I understand that change and growth can often be uncomfortable. By working with me, you can expect a safe and understanding place to explore current and past difficulties, process emotions, and achieve holistic wellbeing. I have training in art therapy, mindfulness, meditation, and trauma-informed approaches. I offer traditional talk counseling and art therapy to teens and adults experiencing life transitions, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, and self-esteem issues.
(336) 559-3998 View (336) 559-3998
Photo of Lori Marhefke, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Lori Marhefke
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC , CRC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
New clients welcome. Do you struggle with sleep? Is it common for you to be so lost in your own racing thoughts that you lose track of people and activities which normally bring you joy? Have you been trying your best to cope with loss on your own? It’s brave of you to be here. It takes courage to seek help. I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor serving Wisconsin, North Carolina, and Virginia. I’ve worked with wonderful clients, many of whom suffered extreme anxiety, panic, sleep issues, and finally were able to speak about their trauma. I’d be honored to provide help and a safe place.
New clients welcome. Do you struggle with sleep? Is it common for you to be so lost in your own racing thoughts that you lose track of people and activities which normally bring you joy? Have you been trying your best to cope with loss on your own? It’s brave of you to be here. It takes courage to seek help. I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor serving Wisconsin, North Carolina, and Virginia. I’ve worked with wonderful clients, many of whom suffered extreme anxiety, panic, sleep issues, and finally were able to speak about their trauma. I’d be honored to provide help and a safe place.
(984) 203-9852 View (984) 203-9852
Photo of Meagan Shirlen, LCSW Associate in Asheboro, NC
Meagan Shirlen
LCSW Associate , MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
Are you aged 13 to 30 and struggling with anxiety, grief, or self-doubt? Do you want to explore what's most important to you, your strengths, and what's keeping you stuck? I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where we'll work together to help you envision a fulfilling life and create pathways to your goals. My approach is validating, holistic, and down-to-earth. All kinds of teens and young adults will find a caring environment here, whether you're on the autism spectrum, living with ADHD, part of the diverse LGBTQ+ community, or none of the above at all. Your unique experiences are valid; I'm here to listen and support you.
Are you aged 13 to 30 and struggling with anxiety, grief, or self-doubt? Do you want to explore what's most important to you, your strengths, and what's keeping you stuck? I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where we'll work together to help you envision a fulfilling life and create pathways to your goals. My approach is validating, holistic, and down-to-earth. All kinds of teens and young adults will find a caring environment here, whether you're on the autism spectrum, living with ADHD, part of the diverse LGBTQ+ community, or none of the above at all. Your unique experiences are valid; I'm here to listen and support you.
(984) 400-4162 View (984) 400-4162
Photo of Carla Huff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Asheboro, NC
Carla Huff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
Adults I work with are interested in setting boundaries, overcoming negative thought patterns, processing a loss, enhancing personal relationships and learning how to live intentionally rather than just checking boxes. I currently only have evening and weekend availability.
Adults I work with are interested in setting boundaries, overcoming negative thought patterns, processing a loss, enhancing personal relationships and learning how to live intentionally rather than just checking boxes. I currently only have evening and weekend availability.
(919) 642-4760 View (919) 642-4760
Photo of Rebecca Knowles Floyd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Rebecca Knowles Floyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
When tragedy, trauma, loss, grief, or even mild anxiety invade our lives we often feel overwhelmed in our distress, disconnected from others, including those we love, and lost in our loneliness.
I am old enough to know that life does not always lend itself to simplistic answers. At various periods we all find ourselves in difficult circumstances that feel overwhelming, sometimes related to life changing tragedies like death, divorce, new medical diagnosis like cancer, job loss, or catastrophic injury. In these situations your life changes in an instant. There is an avalanche of distressing emotions and life no longer feels solid or stable. As a therapist who has experienced some serious, life changing tragedies, I understand those feelings and am specifically trained in grief and trauma.
When tragedy, trauma, loss, grief, or even mild anxiety invade our lives we often feel overwhelmed in our distress, disconnected from others, including those we love, and lost in our loneliness.
I am old enough to know that life does not always lend itself to simplistic answers. At various periods we all find ourselves in difficult circumstances that feel overwhelming, sometimes related to life changing tragedies like death, divorce, new medical diagnosis like cancer, job loss, or catastrophic injury. In these situations your life changes in an instant. There is an avalanche of distressing emotions and life no longer feels solid or stable. As a therapist who has experienced some serious, life changing tragedies, I understand those feelings and am specifically trained in grief and trauma.
(919) 689-4380 View (919) 689-4380
Photo of Katie Overcash, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Asheboro, NC
Katie Overcash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Are you looking for something different? I will help you explore solutions through various ways including traditional talk therapy, utilizing yoga and active relaxation, as well as Neurofeedback training. Since 2009, I have served as an Outpatient Therapist in private practice. I have experience and training in the areas of anxiety, depression, divorce, separation, grief, trauma, abuse, identity development, interpersonal relationships, PTSD, self-injury, self-regulation, and self-esteem building. I work well with highly motivated clients and will often times provide resources for work and reflection between sessions.
Are you looking for something different? I will help you explore solutions through various ways including traditional talk therapy, utilizing yoga and active relaxation, as well as Neurofeedback training. Since 2009, I have served as an Outpatient Therapist in private practice. I have experience and training in the areas of anxiety, depression, divorce, separation, grief, trauma, abuse, identity development, interpersonal relationships, PTSD, self-injury, self-regulation, and self-esteem building. I work well with highly motivated clients and will often times provide resources for work and reflection between sessions.
(980) 409-5033 View (980) 409-5033
Photo of Linda Sue Bell, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Linda Sue Bell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513  (Online Only)
You wouldn't be reading this right now if you thought everything in your life was perfect. I would be honored to meet you and start working on what isn't working well. Life isn't easy, but can be full of good experiences if we heal those places that are wounded within us and relearn who we really are. Not all the messages we've internalized about ourselves are true, yet we live our lives as if they are. Whether your concerns are around relationships, parenting, feeling stuck, depression, anxiety, grief, or so many other possibilities, there are ways to heal and put these issues in the past.
You wouldn't be reading this right now if you thought everything in your life was perfect. I would be honored to meet you and start working on what isn't working well. Life isn't easy, but can be full of good experiences if we heal those places that are wounded within us and relearn who we really are. Not all the messages we've internalized about ourselves are true, yet we live our lives as if they are. Whether your concerns are around relationships, parenting, feeling stuck, depression, anxiety, grief, or so many other possibilities, there are ways to heal and put these issues in the past.
(919) 343-0426 View (919) 343-0426
Photo of Aimee N. Callicutt-Keesler, Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Aimee N. Callicutt-Keesler
Counselor, MS, LCAS, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
High Point, NC 27265
I specialize in working with adults and couples aged 18+ coping with mood disorders, addictions, dual diagnoses, life transitions, trauma, relationship issues, existential issues, and grief.
I am dual-licensed as a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate. My ideal client is someone who wants to put in the work to make themselves the best they can be. I recognize that your best will be different every day, and that's okay! Aimee draws from evidence-based practices such as person-centered therapy, compassion-focused therapy, existential therapy, expressive arts therapy, journaling and narrative therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, reality and solution-focused therapies, I am grateful to have the opportunity to serve clients in NC & help them meet their personal goals!
I specialize in working with adults and couples aged 18+ coping with mood disorders, addictions, dual diagnoses, life transitions, trauma, relationship issues, existential issues, and grief.
I am dual-licensed as a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate. My ideal client is someone who wants to put in the work to make themselves the best they can be. I recognize that your best will be different every day, and that's okay! Aimee draws from evidence-based practices such as person-centered therapy, compassion-focused therapy, existential therapy, expressive arts therapy, journaling and narrative therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, reality and solution-focused therapies, I am grateful to have the opportunity to serve clients in NC & help them meet their personal goals!
(336) 920-8063 View (336) 920-8063
Photo of Melissa Sevigny, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Asheboro, NC
Melissa Sevigny
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Zebulon, NC 27597  (Online Only)
My specialities include: - adults experiencing depression or anxiety -life transition counseling for new parents, retirees, and those who are in a caregiving role for their parents -grief and loss -relationship issues -chronic health issues -work stress.
Some people see me to explore childhood trauma. Some people come to me because their job or home life are really stressful. Some come because they’re worried about stuff all the time that they know they shouldn’t be worried about but they are anyway. Some come because their parents are getting older, and they are having to be more involved in their care and the transition to parenting your parent is challenging. Some people are not happy in their relationships, some aren’t happy with themselves and some just need someone to talk to. What all this means is, there is no wrong reason to see a therapist.. I'm here for you!
My specialities include: - adults experiencing depression or anxiety -life transition counseling for new parents, retirees, and those who are in a caregiving role for their parents -grief and loss -relationship issues -chronic health issues -work stress.
Some people see me to explore childhood trauma. Some people come to me because their job or home life are really stressful. Some come because they’re worried about stuff all the time that they know they shouldn’t be worried about but they are anyway. Some come because their parents are getting older, and they are having to be more involved in their care and the transition to parenting your parent is challenging. Some people are not happy in their relationships, some aren’t happy with themselves and some just need someone to talk to. What all this means is, there is no wrong reason to see a therapist.. I'm here for you!
(813) 773-3144 View (813) 773-3144
Photo of E. Brooke Barnard, Counselor in Asheboro, NC
E. Brooke Barnard
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I have an avid interest in helping children, adults, and families dealing with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental and/or physical challenges, and Academically Gifted and Talented. I also specialize in supporting clients and families coping with chronic and/or serious illnesses. Siblings, who are often overlooked in these families, are of special concern to me. Depression, anxiety and grief and loss issues due to death, divorce and other life changes hold a special interest for me as well.
I have an avid interest in helping children, adults, and families dealing with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental and/or physical challenges, and Academically Gifted and Talented. I also specialize in supporting clients and families coping with chronic and/or serious illnesses. Siblings, who are often overlooked in these families, are of special concern to me. Depression, anxiety and grief and loss issues due to death, divorce and other life changes hold a special interest for me as well.
(336) 790-4638 View (336) 790-4638
Photo of Ami Patel, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Ami Patel
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
Ami specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, codependency, trauma, stress, life transitions, women’s issues, grief, conflict resolution, effective communication, and cognitive and behavioral therapy.
Ami Patel is a licensed professional counselor providing individual therapy to adults. She understands the courage it takes to reach out for help and her goal is to help you create a safe space where vulnerability and honesty are valued. Ami provides counseling for those who wish to create long lasting and positive changes in their lives and relationships. She treats mental health through the lens of the whole person: emotional, relational, physical, and spiritual. She believes in promoting healing through positive changes and recognition of one’s strengths.
Ami specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, codependency, trauma, stress, life transitions, women’s issues, grief, conflict resolution, effective communication, and cognitive and behavioral therapy.
Ami Patel is a licensed professional counselor providing individual therapy to adults. She understands the courage it takes to reach out for help and her goal is to help you create a safe space where vulnerability and honesty are valued. Ami provides counseling for those who wish to create long lasting and positive changes in their lives and relationships. She treats mental health through the lens of the whole person: emotional, relational, physical, and spiritual. She believes in promoting healing through positive changes and recognition of one’s strengths.
(704) 251-6550 View (704) 251-6550
Photo of Anne Marsland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Asheboro, NC
Anne Marsland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Times of transition can leave us feeling disoriented, uprooted, and tug at old emotional wounds. Finding our way through the rocky terrain of loss often compels us to reshape priorities, redefine ourselves, and re-imagine our future. If you are grieving the death of someone in your life, facing an uncertain diagnosis, an empty nest, the loss of a relationship, changing employment, adjusting to a geographical move, or experiencing other significant changes in your life, it would be my honor to support you in exploring the layers of your loss, finding your footing again, and restoring your hope for a meaningful future.
Times of transition can leave us feeling disoriented, uprooted, and tug at old emotional wounds. Finding our way through the rocky terrain of loss often compels us to reshape priorities, redefine ourselves, and re-imagine our future. If you are grieving the death of someone in your life, facing an uncertain diagnosis, an empty nest, the loss of a relationship, changing employment, adjusting to a geographical move, or experiencing other significant changes in your life, it would be my honor to support you in exploring the layers of your loss, finding your footing again, and restoring your hope for a meaningful future.
(919) 899-1882 View (919) 899-1882
Photo of Sekesha Chestnut, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Asheboro, NC
Sekesha Chestnut
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MEd, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
Accepting NEW Clients (Children, Teens, Adults, and Couples) I am a Licensed Counselor dually licensed as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a School Counselor. I have over 20 years of counseling experience in the area of corrections, mental health and school counseling. I can help you build coping skills to manage your day to day life stressors, assist you through transitions such as co-parenting, divorce/separation, grief and much more. I have experience working with clients with ADHD, depression and anxiety. My goal is to help you make necessary changes in your life so you can become the best version of yourself.
Accepting NEW Clients (Children, Teens, Adults, and Couples) I am a Licensed Counselor dually licensed as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a School Counselor. I have over 20 years of counseling experience in the area of corrections, mental health and school counseling. I can help you build coping skills to manage your day to day life stressors, assist you through transitions such as co-parenting, divorce/separation, grief and much more. I have experience working with clients with ADHD, depression and anxiety. My goal is to help you make necessary changes in your life so you can become the best version of yourself.
(919) 873-4651 View (919) 873-4651
Photo of Center for Loss and Grief Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Asheboro, NC
Center for Loss and Grief Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202
I have worked in the field of clinical social work for 20 years. I have provided therapeutic services to individuals/couples/families and young adults who present with various challenges including mood/anxiety, grief/bereavement and traumatic loss. Extensive training and experience as a grief therapist and dedicated my clinical career to working in serious/life threatening illnesses such as cancer and various chronic illnesses. I also provide clinical supervision for licensure and licensed clinicians. Founder of Center for Loss and Grief Counseling in Charlotte, NC. Our Winter Grief support group is now open for enrollment
I have worked in the field of clinical social work for 20 years. I have provided therapeutic services to individuals/couples/families and young adults who present with various challenges including mood/anxiety, grief/bereavement and traumatic loss. Extensive training and experience as a grief therapist and dedicated my clinical career to working in serious/life threatening illnesses such as cancer and various chronic illnesses. I also provide clinical supervision for licensure and licensed clinicians. Founder of Center for Loss and Grief Counseling in Charlotte, NC. Our Winter Grief support group is now open for enrollment
(704) 327-0720 View (704) 327-0720
Photo of Venus M Bobis Jendresen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Asheboro, NC
Venus M Bobis Jendresen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My goal is to help you create the life you want to live. I do this by meeting you where you are, no matter where that might be. We all face trauma, loss, grief and unexpected life transitions. But these moments do not have to define our lives. Together we can successfully process and move through the pain, conflict and difficulty so that you can feel in control of your life again. I approach with a non-judgmental stance, so no topic, conflict or situation is out of bounds.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My goal is to help you create the life you want to live. I do this by meeting you where you are, no matter where that might be. We all face trauma, loss, grief and unexpected life transitions. But these moments do not have to define our lives. Together we can successfully process and move through the pain, conflict and difficulty so that you can feel in control of your life again. I approach with a non-judgmental stance, so no topic, conflict or situation is out of bounds.
(980) 291-4920 View (980) 291-4920
Photo of Tamara Reyes Tozzi, Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Tamara Reyes Tozzi
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I am experienced and passionate about working with individuals with anxiety, depression, interpersonal and internal conflict, faith and spiritual matters, grief, and cultural issues.
Desiring connection with others? Struggling to see yourself in a positive light? In my personal and professional life, I feel a natural inclination to connect with and help others. I've had many meaningful experiences of need and brokenness in my own life, in which I have been genuinely touched by others that have come alongside me as agents of healing and strength. This sparked my desire to come alongside others and to help them develop a healthy view of themselves and positive attitudes that promote striving toward one's goals and cultivating healthy relationships.
As a therapist, I am experienced and passionate about working with individuals with anxiety, depression, interpersonal and internal conflict, faith and spiritual matters, grief, and cultural issues.
Desiring connection with others? Struggling to see yourself in a positive light? In my personal and professional life, I feel a natural inclination to connect with and help others. I've had many meaningful experiences of need and brokenness in my own life, in which I have been genuinely touched by others that have come alongside me as agents of healing and strength. This sparked my desire to come alongside others and to help them develop a healthy view of themselves and positive attitudes that promote striving toward one's goals and cultivating healthy relationships.
(919) 551-6639 View (919) 551-6639
Photo of Celynd Noel Malone, Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Celynd Noel Malone
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, TCT, CSAT-C, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
I (she/her) work with adults and couples from a variety of backgrounds on all things sex, gender, and religious trauma. Issues include including gender diversity and transgender care, sexual health, sex addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, grief and loss, and issues of specific concern to the LGBTQIA+, kink, and polyamory communities. I also have experience working with religious trauma. My ideal client is ready to do the deep work, because we're going to dive right in!
I (she/her) work with adults and couples from a variety of backgrounds on all things sex, gender, and religious trauma. Issues include including gender diversity and transgender care, sexual health, sex addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, grief and loss, and issues of specific concern to the LGBTQIA+, kink, and polyamory communities. I also have experience working with religious trauma. My ideal client is ready to do the deep work, because we're going to dive right in!
(919) 694-4293 View (919) 694-4293
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.