Rick Smith
MA
Not Verified Not Verified
Titusville, NJ 08560
Not accepting new clients
I have been helping young people solve problems and achieve their goals for over 12 professional years. In all that time, I have served two main roles; a school counselor for a special education organization, and a high school coach of soccer, cross country and track teams in central New Jersey. I have extensive experience in helping children, adolescents and teens earn success by realizing and developing strengths to overcome life's obstacles. I believe that navigating the years between childhood and adulthood is one of the most daunting periods in someone's life, and challenges can come at you from all different directions.
I have been helping young people solve problems and achieve their goals for over 12 professional years. In all that time, I have served two main roles; a school counselor for a special education organization, and a high school coach of soccer, cross country and track teams in central New Jersey. I have extensive experience in helping children, adolescents and teens earn success by realizing and developing strengths to overcome life's obstacles. I believe that navigating the years between childhood and adulthood is one of the most daunting periods in someone's life, and challenges can come at you from all different directions.
(609) 293-4278 View (609) 293-4278

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Creative Arts Therapies Services, LLC in Titusville, NJ
Creative Arts Therapies Services, LLC
ATR-BC, LCAT, LPC
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
What is Art Therapy? This is the number one question asked of me. Briefly, as defined by the American Art Therapy Association (AATA), "Art therapy is a mental health profession in which clients, facilitated by the art therapist, use art media, the creative process, and the resulting artwork to explore their feelings, reconcile emotional conflicts, foster self-awareness, manage behavior and addictions, develop social skills, improve reality orientation, reduce anxiety, and increase self-esteem. A goal in art therapy is to improve or restore a client's functioning and his/her sense of personal well-being." The creative process lends itself readily to meeting the individual where they are at in the present moment. My personal style mirrors this. I utilize both the non-verbal and verbal processes to facilitate understanding, awareness and growth. My particular areas of expertise are grief/loss, attachment issues (i.e.foster care/adoption), trauma, mood instability, and disordered personality.
What is Art Therapy? This is the number one question asked of me. Briefly, as defined by the American Art Therapy Association (AATA), "Art therapy is a mental health profession in which clients, facilitated by the art therapist, use art media, the creative process, and the resulting artwork to explore their feelings, reconcile emotional conflicts, foster self-awareness, manage behavior and addictions, develop social skills, improve reality orientation, reduce anxiety, and increase self-esteem. A goal in art therapy is to improve or restore a client's functioning and his/her sense of personal well-being." The creative process lends itself readily to meeting the individual where they are at in the present moment. My personal style mirrors this. I utilize both the non-verbal and verbal processes to facilitate understanding, awareness and growth. My particular areas of expertise are grief/loss, attachment issues (i.e.foster care/adoption), trauma, mood instability, and disordered personality.
(609) 336-4003 View (609) 336-4003
Photo of Julia A. Little, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Titusville, NJ
Julia A. Little
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hopewell, NJ 08525  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients impacted by a cancer diagnosis, past or recent grief and loss, and any stressful life changes.
There are times in life we all need someone to talk to. Whether you struggle with anxiety or depression or are trying to cope with a recent change or loss, no concern is too big to work through together. I will provide a safe, comfortable, private space for you to unload your worries, untangle your conflicts, and plan and dream for your future. Most importantly, I will listen to you, respect you, and care about you. I look forward to hearing your story, and helping you craft the next chapter.
I specialize in working with clients impacted by a cancer diagnosis, past or recent grief and loss, and any stressful life changes.
There are times in life we all need someone to talk to. Whether you struggle with anxiety or depression or are trying to cope with a recent change or loss, no concern is too big to work through together. I will provide a safe, comfortable, private space for you to unload your worries, untangle your conflicts, and plan and dream for your future. Most importantly, I will listen to you, respect you, and care about you. I look forward to hearing your story, and helping you craft the next chapter.
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Photo of Christine M Ruth, Marriage & Family Therapist in Titusville, NJ
Christine M Ruth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
My 21 years of experience as a licensed marriage and family therapist, divorce discernment counselor, spiritual guide, and hospice grief counselor has equipped me to help a wide variety of adults, teens, and couples recover from "stuckness" and depression, find deeper relational intimacy, and discern steps to move forward in their current relationship.
Are you feeling stuck in a difficult circumstance or a relational conflict? Do you find yourself limited by fear, anxiety, lack of motivation or clarity? Are you discerning whether or not to stay in a current relationship? This can be a painful space. I believe we all have access to deep, still waters within us that can guide and direct us to deeper peace and clarity. Sometimes, we struggle to access that "knowing part" of us. I have 20 years of helping guide men, women, couples, adolescents and families gain skills and find deeper, more peaceful waters in seasons of grief, anxiety, depression, divorce & couple's conflict.
My 21 years of experience as a licensed marriage and family therapist, divorce discernment counselor, spiritual guide, and hospice grief counselor has equipped me to help a wide variety of adults, teens, and couples recover from "stuckness" and depression, find deeper relational intimacy, and discern steps to move forward in their current relationship.
Are you feeling stuck in a difficult circumstance or a relational conflict? Do you find yourself limited by fear, anxiety, lack of motivation or clarity? Are you discerning whether or not to stay in a current relationship? This can be a painful space. I believe we all have access to deep, still waters within us that can guide and direct us to deeper peace and clarity. Sometimes, we struggle to access that "knowing part" of us. I have 20 years of helping guide men, women, couples, adolescents and families gain skills and find deeper, more peaceful waters in seasons of grief, anxiety, depression, divorce & couple's conflict.
(609) 293-2326 View (609) 293-2326
Photo of TBE Global LLC, Counselor in Titusville, NJ
TBE Global LLC
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Trenton, NJ 08638
In addition to being a multi-state licensed professional psychotherapist in Texas and NJ; I am also a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, and I am fully qualified to help you explore that.
How has pain colored your lens? Clouded your thoughts and decision making? Impacted your interpersonal relationships? Work/School life? Most people don't realize that if pain goes unattended; it impacts every area of our lives; including how we see and experience the world and the people in it. Unattended to pain opens the door to destructive behavior patterns and declining motivation. Pain can show up in addictions, somatic/psychotic manifestation, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, etc. When explored with the aide of a professional, that same pain can be utilized to help you discover the best version of yourself.
In addition to being a multi-state licensed professional psychotherapist in Texas and NJ; I am also a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, and I am fully qualified to help you explore that.
How has pain colored your lens? Clouded your thoughts and decision making? Impacted your interpersonal relationships? Work/School life? Most people don't realize that if pain goes unattended; it impacts every area of our lives; including how we see and experience the world and the people in it. Unattended to pain opens the door to destructive behavior patterns and declining motivation. Pain can show up in addictions, somatic/psychotic manifestation, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, etc. When explored with the aide of a professional, that same pain can be utilized to help you discover the best version of yourself.
(609) 459-0107 View (609) 459-0107
Photo of Barbara Cole-Kiernan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Titusville, NJ
Barbara Cole-Kiernan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Lambertville, NJ 08530
My experience and training include many psychological modalities as well as a strong background in hospice, bereavement, meditation and yoga.
Are you in transition? Feeling stuck in your life or relationship? Have your usual coping strategies become ineffective, leaving you feeling anxious, fearful, depressed or angry? Do you feel that there must be more to life than what you are presently experiencing? Are you experiencing emotional upheaval that is impacting the quality of your life as a result of critical or chronic illness ?
My experience and training include many psychological modalities as well as a strong background in hospice, bereavement, meditation and yoga.
Are you in transition? Feeling stuck in your life or relationship? Have your usual coping strategies become ineffective, leaving you feeling anxious, fearful, depressed or angry? Do you feel that there must be more to life than what you are presently experiencing? Are you experiencing emotional upheaval that is impacting the quality of your life as a result of critical or chronic illness ?
(609) 643-4498 View (609) 643-4498
Photo of Tracey Post, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Titusville, NJ
Tracey Post
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, SEP, CCPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Trenton, NJ 08608
Waitlist for new clients
Specialties: relationships, sexuality, trauma, grief/loss, anxiety, separation/divorce, stress and embracing the constant changes life brings.
I want you to have the best life imaginable: to live in a body that can feel what it feels and with a mind that can know what it knows. I believe we heal through connection and relationship; it is how we survive then thrive. Sometimes we need to make meaning of our experiences; sometimes we just want to manage or reduce unwanted symptoms and sometimes we need someone to simply be present- to sit and witness and listen or hold the silence. I hope you will find all these elements working with me and together we will walk the path to healing. Come in and let's explore together!
Specialties: relationships, sexuality, trauma, grief/loss, anxiety, separation/divorce, stress and embracing the constant changes life brings.
I want you to have the best life imaginable: to live in a body that can feel what it feels and with a mind that can know what it knows. I believe we heal through connection and relationship; it is how we survive then thrive. Sometimes we need to make meaning of our experiences; sometimes we just want to manage or reduce unwanted symptoms and sometimes we need someone to simply be present- to sit and witness and listen or hold the silence. I hope you will find all these elements working with me and together we will walk the path to healing. Come in and let's explore together!
(609) 207-7158 View (609) 207-7158
Photo of Susan Rovello, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Titusville, NJ
Susan Rovello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lambertville, NJ 08530
Are you going through challenges or changes in your life that you aren't quite sure how to handle? If so, you are not alone. We all experience upsetting and painful times, though the sources may vary. Whether the problem is a relationship, anxiety, depression, the loss of a loved one, or a life stage transition, hope and help are just a phone call away. With decades of experience, I provide a safe and supportive place to explore your concerns.
Are you going through challenges or changes in your life that you aren't quite sure how to handle? If so, you are not alone. We all experience upsetting and painful times, though the sources may vary. Whether the problem is a relationship, anxiety, depression, the loss of a loved one, or a life stage transition, hope and help are just a phone call away. With decades of experience, I provide a safe and supportive place to explore your concerns.
(609) 397-4173 View (609) 397-4173
Photo of Lauren Callahan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Titusville, NJ
Lauren Callahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CTRS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lawrence Township, NJ 08648
My experiences have led me to work with children, teens, and adults with a wide range of presenting concerns including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, OCD, grief and loss, autism, disability, and various life transitions.
I am an eating disorder and body image therapist committed to supporting clients heal their relationships with food and their bodies. My approach is rooted in Health at Every Size (HAES), anti-diet, and food and weight neutrality. I offer a compassionate, collaborative approach to help clients discover their self-worth and inherent ability to heal.
My experiences have led me to work with children, teens, and adults with a wide range of presenting concerns including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, OCD, grief and loss, autism, disability, and various life transitions.
I am an eating disorder and body image therapist committed to supporting clients heal their relationships with food and their bodies. My approach is rooted in Health at Every Size (HAES), anti-diet, and food and weight neutrality. I offer a compassionate, collaborative approach to help clients discover their self-worth and inherent ability to heal.
(484) 443-0180 View (484) 443-0180
Photo of Allison Bradley, Counselor in Titusville, NJ
Allison Bradley
Counselor, LMHC, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Trenton, NJ 08601  (Online Only)
I work with people experiencing life transitions, grief, relationship challenges, chronic illness, the effects of trauma.
Hi, I'm so glad you're here! I will focus on helping you make meaningful change, starting from the inside and working outward into relationships, work, and life as a whole. I know that beginning therapy can be challenging, but I'm here to make our relationship feel as comfortable as possible. My approach is rooted in warmth, respect, and a deep regard for your strengths. My goal is to get to know you so I can provide support specific to you and what you need.
I work with people experiencing life transitions, grief, relationship challenges, chronic illness, the effects of trauma.
Hi, I'm so glad you're here! I will focus on helping you make meaningful change, starting from the inside and working outward into relationships, work, and life as a whole. I know that beginning therapy can be challenging, but I'm here to make our relationship feel as comfortable as possible. My approach is rooted in warmth, respect, and a deep regard for your strengths. My goal is to get to know you so I can provide support specific to you and what you need.
(929) 296-1902 View (929) 296-1902
Photo of Irene Marie Erckert, Psychologist in Titusville, NJ
Irene Marie Erckert
Psychologist, PhD, CEDS
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
I support clients experiencing stressful life circumstances including the illness or death of a loved one, parenting issues, school stress, pregnancy loss, or relationship issues.
Life presents us with challenges at every phase, and sometimes collaboration with a trained professional helps to weather the storms of life and promote growth and happiness. In my work with children, teens, and adults, I strive to create a safe accepting environment, so my clients can openly express their throughts and feelings and explore their concerns. My treatment is comprehensive in nature and carefully designed to promote self-awareness and address the unique needs of each individual.
I support clients experiencing stressful life circumstances including the illness or death of a loved one, parenting issues, school stress, pregnancy loss, or relationship issues.
Life presents us with challenges at every phase, and sometimes collaboration with a trained professional helps to weather the storms of life and promote growth and happiness. In my work with children, teens, and adults, I strive to create a safe accepting environment, so my clients can openly express their throughts and feelings and explore their concerns. My treatment is comprehensive in nature and carefully designed to promote self-awareness and address the unique needs of each individual.
(609) 406-1754 View (609) 406-1754
Photo of Alex Epply-Schmidt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Titusville, NJ
Alex Epply-Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
I received training in counseling for grief and other forms of loss, and mental health support for children and adolescents affected by Covid.
When working with immediate areas of concern for clients, I use techniques from CBT and ACT to help clients develop problem-solving skills, identify who they want to become and reduce stress and anxiety. If you're experiencing unresolved difficult past experiences, I use Attachment Theory. I have a particular interest in helping adolescents develop insights and skills to create a personally meaningful life. I have experience working with clients with anxiety, depression, academic stress, and relationship difficulties. I currently work as a therapist at both Princeton University and Inner Balance Psychology.
I received training in counseling for grief and other forms of loss, and mental health support for children and adolescents affected by Covid.
When working with immediate areas of concern for clients, I use techniques from CBT and ACT to help clients develop problem-solving skills, identify who they want to become and reduce stress and anxiety. If you're experiencing unresolved difficult past experiences, I use Attachment Theory. I have a particular interest in helping adolescents develop insights and skills to create a personally meaningful life. I have experience working with clients with anxiety, depression, academic stress, and relationship difficulties. I currently work as a therapist at both Princeton University and Inner Balance Psychology.
(609) 403-3715 View (609) 403-3715
Photo of Leah C Donato, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Titusville, NJ
Leah C Donato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lambertville, NJ 08530
Congratulations on taking the first step- it’s often the hardest! We all seek happiness, self-gratification and inner peace; and at times we all need support getting there. I have been practicing as a clinician in the field for over 15 years. I’ve built my career on developing mental health programs and providing clinical counseling for the most vulnerable youth and adults. I have worked in various professional settings helping clients with issues of trauma, stress, anxiety, loss, grief, chronic illness, and relationship and interpersonal issues. Additionally, I have a passion for working with LGBTQ youth and their families.
Congratulations on taking the first step- it’s often the hardest! We all seek happiness, self-gratification and inner peace; and at times we all need support getting there. I have been practicing as a clinician in the field for over 15 years. I’ve built my career on developing mental health programs and providing clinical counseling for the most vulnerable youth and adults. I have worked in various professional settings helping clients with issues of trauma, stress, anxiety, loss, grief, chronic illness, and relationship and interpersonal issues. Additionally, I have a passion for working with LGBTQ youth and their families.
(609) 474-0067 View (609) 474-0067
Photo of Emily Suzuki, Licensed Professional Counselor in Titusville, NJ
Emily Suzuki
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hopewell, NJ 08525
Buddhism teaches us that change is a fundamental truth of the healing process. I love to support people negotiating change and life transitions. Change is undoubtedly hard, and anxiety, depression and grief often accompany it. Fortunately, so does new growth. I specialize in attachment and relationships and believe they are the foundation of our ability to heal. I support people through separation and divorce, perinatal and postpartum adjustment, parenting and co-parenting, family conflict, grief and loss, trauma and racial identity development. As we heal our relationship with self, we show up more fully in relationship with others
Buddhism teaches us that change is a fundamental truth of the healing process. I love to support people negotiating change and life transitions. Change is undoubtedly hard, and anxiety, depression and grief often accompany it. Fortunately, so does new growth. I specialize in attachment and relationships and believe they are the foundation of our ability to heal. I support people through separation and divorce, perinatal and postpartum adjustment, parenting and co-parenting, family conflict, grief and loss, trauma and racial identity development. As we heal our relationship with self, we show up more fully in relationship with others
(609) 488-4846 View (609) 488-4846
Photo of Lise Deguire, Psychologist in Titusville, NJ
Lise Deguire
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
Some particular areas of interest in my practice are: medical illness, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, marriage therapy, parenting, relationship concerns, self-image concerns, gay and lesbian issues.
I am a Clinical Psychologist, and have been working with clients for over 30 years. In addition to years of experience, I bring a balance of careful listening, warmth, respectful feedback and skill building to my work with clients. I work with individuals and couples, and would be glad to speak with you about your concerns.
Some particular areas of interest in my practice are: medical illness, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, marriage therapy, parenting, relationship concerns, self-image concerns, gay and lesbian issues.
I am a Clinical Psychologist, and have been working with clients for over 30 years. In addition to years of experience, I bring a balance of careful listening, warmth, respectful feedback and skill building to my work with clients. I work with individuals and couples, and would be glad to speak with you about your concerns.
(609) 778-4704 View (609) 778-4704
Photo of Archana Jain, Psychologist in Titusville, NJ
Archana Jain
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
I have experience working with issues related to life transitions, grief and loss, trauma and difficulties in all relationships.
I believe therapy can help one learn to navigate strong emotions and better regulate one's responses to life's challenges. Feeling understood and validated by one's therapist can allow one to develop insight into thoughts, feelings and behaviors. In knowing the context and meaning that underlies how we relate to the self, to others and to the world, we have greater choice in breaking free from distressing patterns that may be keeping us stuck. Over time, the therapeutic relationship becomes the vehicle that allows one to carve a personal and professional life that feels satisfying and deeply meaningful.
I have experience working with issues related to life transitions, grief and loss, trauma and difficulties in all relationships.
I believe therapy can help one learn to navigate strong emotions and better regulate one's responses to life's challenges. Feeling understood and validated by one's therapist can allow one to develop insight into thoughts, feelings and behaviors. In knowing the context and meaning that underlies how we relate to the self, to others and to the world, we have greater choice in breaking free from distressing patterns that may be keeping us stuck. Over time, the therapeutic relationship becomes the vehicle that allows one to carve a personal and professional life that feels satisfying and deeply meaningful.
(732) 532-3167 View (732) 532-3167
Photo of Beth Fier, Licensed Professional Counselor in Titusville, NJ
Beth Fier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, ACS, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
Hi there! Welcome to my practice, SEED Services: Partners for Counseling & Wellness. We use evidence based approaches, including Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and the Gottman Method for couples counseling to name a few. Currently, most of my own work supports individuals who struggle with high levels of self-criticism, shame, and the patterns of avoidance or over-striving that are often associated with anxiety, depression, problem perfectionism, and trauma. We also specialize in couples counseling and working with relational grief, or losses due to life transitions and "post"-COVID living.
Hi there! Welcome to my practice, SEED Services: Partners for Counseling & Wellness. We use evidence based approaches, including Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and the Gottman Method for couples counseling to name a few. Currently, most of my own work supports individuals who struggle with high levels of self-criticism, shame, and the patterns of avoidance or over-striving that are often associated with anxiety, depression, problem perfectionism, and trauma. We also specialize in couples counseling and working with relational grief, or losses due to life transitions and "post"-COVID living.
(609) 422-5434 View (609) 422-5434
Photo of Dr. Nicole Waldron, Psychologist in Titusville, NJ
Dr. Nicole Waldron
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lambertville, NJ 08530  (Online Only)
New Horizons was founded by Nicole Waldron, Psy.D. and Ronald Gonzalez, MA, Ed.S., LPC. We offer both individual and group therapy for adults. Dr. Waldron specializes in treating Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Stress, Relationship issues, Forensic issues, and those in Crisis. Mr. Gonzalez specializes in Family Therapy and in treating Anger Issues, Substance Abuse Issues, Forensic Issues, and those in Crisis. We are also a welcoming and affirming practice for LGBTQ clients. We believe respect, compassion, and trust are cornerstones of every therapeutic relationship, and we will work to tailor treatment to our client's unique needs.
New Horizons was founded by Nicole Waldron, Psy.D. and Ronald Gonzalez, MA, Ed.S., LPC. We offer both individual and group therapy for adults. Dr. Waldron specializes in treating Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Stress, Relationship issues, Forensic issues, and those in Crisis. Mr. Gonzalez specializes in Family Therapy and in treating Anger Issues, Substance Abuse Issues, Forensic Issues, and those in Crisis. We are also a welcoming and affirming practice for LGBTQ clients. We believe respect, compassion, and trust are cornerstones of every therapeutic relationship, and we will work to tailor treatment to our client's unique needs.
(908) 428-8656 View (908) 428-8656
Photo of Kelly R. Walters, Psychologist in Titusville, NJ
Kelly R. Walters
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lambertville, NJ 08530
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I provide individual therapy to older adolescents, adults and seniors. Working from a psychodynamic framework, I specialize in helping people dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, loss, trauma, relationship difficulties and life transitions. I am flexible in my approach to psychotherapy and adjust my ways of working to meet the needs of each unique individual. In the context of a therapeutic relationship based on respect, empathy and collaboration, my goal as a therapist is to understand the unique set of problems, experiences and goals of those seeking help.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I provide individual therapy to older adolescents, adults and seniors. Working from a psychodynamic framework, I specialize in helping people dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, loss, trauma, relationship difficulties and life transitions. I am flexible in my approach to psychotherapy and adjust my ways of working to meet the needs of each unique individual. In the context of a therapeutic relationship based on respect, empathy and collaboration, my goal as a therapist is to understand the unique set of problems, experiences and goals of those seeking help.
(908) 521-4778 View (908) 521-4778
Photo of Elizabeth Hernandez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Titusville, NJ
Elizabeth Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Trenton, NJ 08648
My ideal client has concrete goals that he/she is looking to reach with the help of therapy, where therapy is seen as an active process that requires work on the part of the client. My ideal client has a variety of emotional, interpersonal, and behavioral challenges. Their goal is for he/she to be the better version of themselves for a better quality of life they desire.
My ideal client has concrete goals that he/she is looking to reach with the help of therapy, where therapy is seen as an active process that requires work on the part of the client. My ideal client has a variety of emotional, interpersonal, and behavioral challenges. Their goal is for he/she to be the better version of themselves for a better quality of life they desire.
(609) 881-1418 View (609) 881-1418

See more therapy options for Titusville

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.