Photo of Giovanna Coppola, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Toms River, NJ
Giovanna Coppola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
I work with folks who are looking for support navigating grief/loss, difficult life circumstances, and various kinds of trauma. If you find yourself disconnected from your feelings, in a constant state of auto-pilot, or constantly feel like you are rushing, I can help. If you want to stop living on autopilot and start living in the moment, you are in the right place. Together, we will explore the patterns that haven't been working for you and create ones that do.
I work with folks who are looking for support navigating grief/loss, difficult life circumstances, and various kinds of trauma. If you find yourself disconnected from your feelings, in a constant state of auto-pilot, or constantly feel like you are rushing, I can help. If you want to stop living on autopilot and start living in the moment, you are in the right place. Together, we will explore the patterns that haven't been working for you and create ones that do.
(848) 233-3230 View (848) 233-3230
Photo of Janine Fabrizio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Toms River, NJ
Janine Fabrizio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy can be a powerful tool for promoting change, healing and growth. The goal is to replace feelings of emptiness or symptoms of anxiety and depression with feelings of empowerment and overall emotional well-being. By fostering meaningful discussions, positive behaviors and healthy changes can be achieved. As a licensed clinical social worker, and licensed certified alcohol and drug counselor, I have more than 20 years’ experience working with a diverse population in the prevention, treatment and recovery support field for mental health and substance use disorders. I specialize in grief and working with adults and older adults.
Therapy can be a powerful tool for promoting change, healing and growth. The goal is to replace feelings of emptiness or symptoms of anxiety and depression with feelings of empowerment and overall emotional well-being. By fostering meaningful discussions, positive behaviors and healthy changes can be achieved. As a licensed clinical social worker, and licensed certified alcohol and drug counselor, I have more than 20 years’ experience working with a diverse population in the prevention, treatment and recovery support field for mental health and substance use disorders. I specialize in grief and working with adults and older adults.
(848) 251-0835 View (848) 251-0835
Photo of Jennifer M Cooper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Toms River, NJ
Jennifer M Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
In my years of practice, I have worked successfully with individuals/couples/families who are coping with loss/grief/transition issues, depression and anxiety, communication breakdowns, and the impact of chronic illness on family dynamics.
The journey through life's many transitions - successes and challenges, partnered and single, chronic illness and loss - and the feelings of anxiety, depression, fear that they evoke in us can cause us at times to feel alone and powerless. I would be honored to accompany you on your healing journey - whether your goal is to bring you closer to what you want personally or professionally, closer to those you love, or back to yourself - and I will work with you, at your pace, in a safe, nurturing environment. "The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step". - Lao Tzu
In my years of practice, I have worked successfully with individuals/couples/families who are coping with loss/grief/transition issues, depression and anxiety, communication breakdowns, and the impact of chronic illness on family dynamics.
The journey through life's many transitions - successes and challenges, partnered and single, chronic illness and loss - and the feelings of anxiety, depression, fear that they evoke in us can cause us at times to feel alone and powerless. I would be honored to accompany you on your healing journey - whether your goal is to bring you closer to what you want personally or professionally, closer to those you love, or back to yourself - and I will work with you, at your pace, in a safe, nurturing environment. "The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step". - Lao Tzu
(732) 372-4930 View (732) 372-4930
Photo of Jennifer L. Simpson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Toms River, NJ
Jennifer L. Simpson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08754  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include: anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief/bereavement; including grief due to life changing events and chronic illness diagnoses.
Life is a beautiful journey that can be unpredictable, stressful, and overwhelming at times. Sometimes these stressors are difficult to cope with on our own. My work is dedicated to helping individuals cope with life challenges, live healthy, happy, productive lives, and find healing for optimum mental health and wellness. Embarking on a healing journey is exciting, but I also know this can be an anxiety provoking decision. You are not alone in this journey! The therapeutic relationship is an integral part of the healing process. Everyone deserves a safe, confidential space that leads to healing change.
My specialties include: anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief/bereavement; including grief due to life changing events and chronic illness diagnoses.
Life is a beautiful journey that can be unpredictable, stressful, and overwhelming at times. Sometimes these stressors are difficult to cope with on our own. My work is dedicated to helping individuals cope with life challenges, live healthy, happy, productive lives, and find healing for optimum mental health and wellness. Embarking on a healing journey is exciting, but I also know this can be an anxiety provoking decision. You are not alone in this journey! The therapeutic relationship is an integral part of the healing process. Everyone deserves a safe, confidential space that leads to healing change.
(973) 314-2753 View (973) 314-2753
Photo of Inner Hope Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Toms River, NJ
Inner Hope Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
Welcoming new clients! Are you overwhelmed with life right now? If you're experiencing grief, trauma, anxiety and/or depression or struggling with significant life changes, know you don't have to suffer alone. With 20+ years of counseling experience, I have supported adults through many of life's challenges, such as coping with the loss of a loved one, navigating the ending of a relationship, adjusting to a new medical diagnosis and addressing negative childhood experiences that continue to impact their lives as an adult. If you've been feeling overwhelmed, confused and perhaps even numb, please reach out. I'm here to help!
Welcoming new clients! Are you overwhelmed with life right now? If you're experiencing grief, trauma, anxiety and/or depression or struggling with significant life changes, know you don't have to suffer alone. With 20+ years of counseling experience, I have supported adults through many of life's challenges, such as coping with the loss of a loved one, navigating the ending of a relationship, adjusting to a new medical diagnosis and addressing negative childhood experiences that continue to impact their lives as an adult. If you've been feeling overwhelmed, confused and perhaps even numb, please reach out. I'm here to help!
(973) 791-9540 View (973) 791-9540
Photo of Nicole Tilton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Toms River, NJ
Nicole Tilton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ACS, CCTP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
Nicole Tilton is a LPC in the State of NJ who has been working in the field for over 10 years. She has in BA Psychology from The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey and a MS in Mental Health Counseling with a certificate in Couples & Family Counseling from Monmouth University. She also is a National Certified Counselor, an Approved Clinical Supervisor, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Nicole works with individuals who have been affected by trauma as well as grief and loss. She also works with primary mental health diagnoses.
Nicole Tilton is a LPC in the State of NJ who has been working in the field for over 10 years. She has in BA Psychology from The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey and a MS in Mental Health Counseling with a certificate in Couples & Family Counseling from Monmouth University. She also is a National Certified Counselor, an Approved Clinical Supervisor, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Nicole works with individuals who have been affected by trauma as well as grief and loss. She also works with primary mental health diagnoses.
(732) 943-1521 View (732) 943-1521
Photo of Anthony Cuttitta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Toms River, NJ
Anthony Cuttitta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08755
Anthony has been practicing the Art of Psychotherapy and Counseling for over 30 years . He has a Bachelors of Art degree in Psychology from Ramapo College and completed his Masters in Clinical Social Work from Rutgers University Graduate School of Social Work . He provides a Safe - Nonjudgmental Therapeutic Relationship when engaged in the treatment hour . Anthony has experience in working with Individuals , Couples and Families who are suffering from Depression, Anxiety and Grief. He provides Clinical Supervision to LSW ‘s .
Anthony has been practicing the Art of Psychotherapy and Counseling for over 30 years . He has a Bachelors of Art degree in Psychology from Ramapo College and completed his Masters in Clinical Social Work from Rutgers University Graduate School of Social Work . He provides a Safe - Nonjudgmental Therapeutic Relationship when engaged in the treatment hour . Anthony has experience in working with Individuals , Couples and Families who are suffering from Depression, Anxiety and Grief. He provides Clinical Supervision to LSW ‘s .
(848) 217-5977 View (848) 217-5977
Photo of Rich DeMott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Toms River, NJ
Rich DeMott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
It was and still is, a very complex grief to feel.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with over 30 years of experience in the mental health and recovery fields. I have been in private practice for the last 20 years. I am clinically well rounded, nonjudgmental, and fairly soul-seasoned as a human being, myself. I find the majority of my clients to be very psychologically and spiritually heroic/ inspiring. Many of them teach me important things about my own inner life journey. I am also a multiple trauma survivor and have been clean and sober for the last 38 years. I also specialize with codependents/ACOAs.
It was and still is, a very complex grief to feel.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with over 30 years of experience in the mental health and recovery fields. I have been in private practice for the last 20 years. I am clinically well rounded, nonjudgmental, and fairly soul-seasoned as a human being, myself. I find the majority of my clients to be very psychologically and spiritually heroic/ inspiring. Many of them teach me important things about my own inner life journey. I am also a multiple trauma survivor and have been clean and sober for the last 38 years. I also specialize with codependents/ACOAs.
(908) 224-6851 View (908) 224-6851
Photo of Meaghan Hughes, Counselor in Toms River, NJ
Meaghan Hughes
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Often times, the hardest part of therapy can be making that first appointment and showing up. I commend you for taking the first step and seeking a therapist that feels like a good fit for you. Life can bring so many unexpected and painful challenges that can cause us to feel anxious, stressed, overwhelmed and sometimes even numb. When it feels like it is all too much, therapy can help. Whether it be social stressors, grief and loss, major life transitions, work-life balance, anxiety, relationship issues, or something else, my goal is to provide you with a safe and comfortable space to share and work it through.
Often times, the hardest part of therapy can be making that first appointment and showing up. I commend you for taking the first step and seeking a therapist that feels like a good fit for you. Life can bring so many unexpected and painful challenges that can cause us to feel anxious, stressed, overwhelmed and sometimes even numb. When it feels like it is all too much, therapy can help. Whether it be social stressors, grief and loss, major life transitions, work-life balance, anxiety, relationship issues, or something else, my goal is to provide you with a safe and comfortable space to share and work it through.
(732) 631-8770 View (732) 631-8770
Photo of Dr. Silvia Stark, Licensed Professional Counselor in Toms River, NJ
Dr. Silvia Stark
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
Realistically, we all struggle with something at some point in our lives. Anxiety, depression, interpersonal and familial conflict, PTSD, grief, trauma, and substance use/misuse/abuse can intercept and hijack our lives at any given moment. Navigating the path to wellness can be difficult. Adjusting to change in your life can also be challenging and overwhelming. You don't have to navigate it alone. As an educated and experienced mental health professional, I will provide you with creative, caring, and compassionate care to support and guide you through life's adverse events.
Realistically, we all struggle with something at some point in our lives. Anxiety, depression, interpersonal and familial conflict, PTSD, grief, trauma, and substance use/misuse/abuse can intercept and hijack our lives at any given moment. Navigating the path to wellness can be difficult. Adjusting to change in your life can also be challenging and overwhelming. You don't have to navigate it alone. As an educated and experienced mental health professional, I will provide you with creative, caring, and compassionate care to support and guide you through life's adverse events.
(732) 785-4405 View (732) 785-4405
Photo of Kendall Marquard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Toms River, NJ
Kendall Marquard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief & loss as well as social, emotional, and behavioral challenges. I strive to create positive therapeutic rapport with my clients, and believe it’s most important to help you feel safe, supported, and empowered in our sessions. I incorporate CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and behavioral modification in my work to meet your needs. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief & loss as well as social, emotional, and behavioral challenges. I strive to create positive therapeutic rapport with my clients, and believe it’s most important to help you feel safe, supported, and empowered in our sessions. I incorporate CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and behavioral modification in my work to meet your needs. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(201) 890-7339 View (201) 890-7339
Photo of Shore Awakenings, Counselor in Toms River, NJ
Shore Awakenings
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08755
Welcome to my practice, Shore Awakenings. Ever ask, "why me?" We know life can be unfair, but it does not have to feel like a life sentence of discomfort and pain. Besides, darkness cannot exist without light (and vice versa). If you are open to the notion that life consists of lessons to help us better ourselves as humans then let's connect! Like many, I am familiar with trauma and loss, but still aim to see the beauty that life has in store. It would be an honor to support you. I also work with pre-teens to adults. I offer a holistic and integrated approach to my practice. Learn more at my website, www.shore-awakenings.com.
Welcome to my practice, Shore Awakenings. Ever ask, "why me?" We know life can be unfair, but it does not have to feel like a life sentence of discomfort and pain. Besides, darkness cannot exist without light (and vice versa). If you are open to the notion that life consists of lessons to help us better ourselves as humans then let's connect! Like many, I am familiar with trauma and loss, but still aim to see the beauty that life has in store. It would be an honor to support you. I also work with pre-teens to adults. I offer a holistic and integrated approach to my practice. Learn more at my website, www.shore-awakenings.com.
(609) 804-5913 View (609) 804-5913
Photo of Addrisa (Addi) Ankrah; Adults Teens Seniors, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Toms River, NJ
Addrisa (Addi) Ankrah; Adults Teens Seniors
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I am fueled by supporting individuals as they manage some difficult challenges they may encounter; such as grief, loss, chronic illness, substance use, and depression. I help teens and adults navigate experiences and emotions by using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, trauma-informed practices, and an empowerment approach. I am passionate about working with older adults over 65 and individuals living with chronic illness through life transitions. Developing a queer safe space in which clients can honor their emotions is a priority for me. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team.
I am fueled by supporting individuals as they manage some difficult challenges they may encounter; such as grief, loss, chronic illness, substance use, and depression. I help teens and adults navigate experiences and emotions by using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, trauma-informed practices, and an empowerment approach. I am passionate about working with older adults over 65 and individuals living with chronic illness through life transitions. Developing a queer safe space in which clients can honor their emotions is a priority for me. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team.
(862) 322-6467 View (862) 322-6467
Photo of Irmak Dagistanli, Counselor in Toms River, NJ
Irmak Dagistanli
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
I have in-depth experience working in PHP and IOP settings with individuals and groups of all backgrounds, addressing issues such as complex trauma, mood disorders, grief, co-occurring addictions, multicultural issues, and more.
One of the most essential things in life is for a person to know themselves deeply. This is not exclusive to either the so-called “good” or “bad” parts of ourselves, but rather involves taking inventory of all parts to be able to see the whole picture accurately. Whether it be learning to trust others, setting stronger boundaries, or gaining more self-compassion, we will work together to develop an individualized treatment plan that targets your needs. My approach is straightforward yet warm, inviting you to join a non-judgmental environment where you are encouraged to deeply explore your inner world.
I have in-depth experience working in PHP and IOP settings with individuals and groups of all backgrounds, addressing issues such as complex trauma, mood disorders, grief, co-occurring addictions, multicultural issues, and more.
One of the most essential things in life is for a person to know themselves deeply. This is not exclusive to either the so-called “good” or “bad” parts of ourselves, but rather involves taking inventory of all parts to be able to see the whole picture accurately. Whether it be learning to trust others, setting stronger boundaries, or gaining more self-compassion, we will work together to develop an individualized treatment plan that targets your needs. My approach is straightforward yet warm, inviting you to join a non-judgmental environment where you are encouraged to deeply explore your inner world.
(732) 607-4541 View (732) 607-4541
Photo of Amanda Eursery, Licensed Social Worker in Toms River, NJ
Amanda Eursery
Licensed Social Worker, LAC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Amanda’s specialties include, but are not limited to drug and alcohol counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, self-esteem, and life transitions. Amanda utilizes a strength’s based, client centered approach, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and is familiar with DBT.
Amanda’s specialties include, but are not limited to drug and alcohol counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, self-esteem, and life transitions. Amanda utilizes a strength’s based, client centered approach, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and is familiar with DBT.
(732) 561-5345 View (732) 561-5345
Photo of Arlene Goldman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Toms River, NJ
Arlene Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
If you are looking for help with stress, or anxiety and depression, for yourself or your pre-teens and teenagers, you are in good hands with me! I can help your panic and worry with my specialty in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as my training in neuroscience techniques. I can also teach you how to use EFT, (Emotional Freedom Technique) to better cope with traumatic memories. As a grief therapist I help you deal with your loss, and navigate what moving on will look like. I also have an expertise in helping those suffering from chronic illnesses, as well as their family's, to adjust to the changes in their lives,
If you are looking for help with stress, or anxiety and depression, for yourself or your pre-teens and teenagers, you are in good hands with me! I can help your panic and worry with my specialty in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as my training in neuroscience techniques. I can also teach you how to use EFT, (Emotional Freedom Technique) to better cope with traumatic memories. As a grief therapist I help you deal with your loss, and navigate what moving on will look like. I also have an expertise in helping those suffering from chronic illnesses, as well as their family's, to adjust to the changes in their lives,
(732) 851-1587 View (732) 851-1587
Photo of Rea Allarey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Toms River, NJ
Rea Allarey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Hello, I'm Rea Allarey, a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience in both inpatient and outpatient medical environments. Life often presents us with stress and overwhelm, and I'm here to guide you through those challenges. Whether you're grappling with depression, anxiety, life changes, grief, health concerns, or interpersonal difficulties, I'm here to support you. Everyone deserves a listening ear and encouragement. Together, we can cultivate effective coping strategies to navigate life's uncertainties. I'm eager to collaborate with you!
Hello, I'm Rea Allarey, a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience in both inpatient and outpatient medical environments. Life often presents us with stress and overwhelm, and I'm here to guide you through those challenges. Whether you're grappling with depression, anxiety, life changes, grief, health concerns, or interpersonal difficulties, I'm here to support you. Everyone deserves a listening ear and encouragement. Together, we can cultivate effective coping strategies to navigate life's uncertainties. I'm eager to collaborate with you!
(848) 400-5885 View (848) 400-5885
Photo of Shaping Lives Health and Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Toms River, NJ
Shaping Lives Health and Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , CCS
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I am a (LCSW) and (CCS) in New Jersey with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, emergency psychiatric issues, addictions, gender, sexuality and LGBT-related issues, intimacy and relationship related struggles, eating disorders and related symptoms/behaviors, and ADHD and Spectrum disorders in both adults and children as well as overall struggles related to day to day stressors.
I am a (LCSW) and (CCS) in New Jersey with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, emergency psychiatric issues, addictions, gender, sexuality and LGBT-related issues, intimacy and relationship related struggles, eating disorders and related symptoms/behaviors, and ADHD and Spectrum disorders in both adults and children as well as overall struggles related to day to day stressors.
(848) 278-6286 View (848) 278-6286
Photo of Kim Martinez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Toms River, NJ
Kim Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I have special interest and extensive experience working with seniors, helping them by addressing issues of declining health and independance, loss and grief.
Now accepting new clients for in person sessions. Sometimes life is challenging and difficult to manage. I believe everyone can benefit from talking to and working with an objective, non-judgemental therapist. My name is Kim Martinez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 22 years experience working with seniors (I am an approved medicare provider), couples, families, adolescents and adults, helping them cope with stress, depression, anxiety, grief issues and relationship struggles as well as learning new ways to communicate and control emotions.
I have special interest and extensive experience working with seniors, helping them by addressing issues of declining health and independance, loss and grief.
Now accepting new clients for in person sessions. Sometimes life is challenging and difficult to manage. I believe everyone can benefit from talking to and working with an objective, non-judgemental therapist. My name is Kim Martinez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 22 years experience working with seniors (I am an approved medicare provider), couples, families, adolescents and adults, helping them cope with stress, depression, anxiety, grief issues and relationship struggles as well as learning new ways to communicate and control emotions.
(732) 853-0418 View (732) 853-0418
Photo of Katherine Tommaso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Toms River, NJ
Katherine Tommaso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Whether you're grappling with complex relationship dynamics, grieving a loss, facing life's adversities, or battling cycles of anxiety and depression, remember, you're not alone on this journey.
I'm Katie Tommaso, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a wealth of experience in clinical settings, serving diverse populations. My mission is to assist individuals in overcoming life's obstacles and navigating its unpredictable twists and turns with empathy and understanding. I firmly believe that everyone possesses the potential to thrive mentally, physically, and spiritually. By emphasizing a Wellness Model and embracing a holistic approach, I empower individuals to pursue their goals with renewed motivation.
Whether you're grappling with complex relationship dynamics, grieving a loss, facing life's adversities, or battling cycles of anxiety and depression, remember, you're not alone on this journey.
I'm Katie Tommaso, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a wealth of experience in clinical settings, serving diverse populations. My mission is to assist individuals in overcoming life's obstacles and navigating its unpredictable twists and turns with empathy and understanding. I firmly believe that everyone possesses the potential to thrive mentally, physically, and spiritually. By emphasizing a Wellness Model and embracing a holistic approach, I empower individuals to pursue their goals with renewed motivation.
(848) 301-1490 View (848) 301-1490
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.