Photo of Whitney Wellness Center, Counselor in Henderson, NV
Whitney Wellness Center
Counselor, MS, CPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Henderson, NV 89074
With 8+ years of experience, she specializes in trauma, grief, loss, anxiety, and depression.
Whitney specializes in Parts & Memory Therapy, an evidence-based technique, proven to foster healing and rapid relief to from PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Grief, and Codependency. Whitney is passionate and committed to empowering and supporting others to heal, and rise above suffering, fear & feeling stuck or indecisive.
With 8+ years of experience, she specializes in trauma, grief, loss, anxiety, and depression.
Whitney specializes in Parts & Memory Therapy, an evidence-based technique, proven to foster healing and rapid relief to from PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Grief, and Codependency. Whitney is passionate and committed to empowering and supporting others to heal, and rise above suffering, fear & feeling stuck or indecisive.
(702) 357-4627 View (702) 357-4627
Photo of Heather Lampton, Psychologist in Henderson, NV
Heather Lampton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Henderson, NV 89052
We all know that life can be a bit of a rollercoaster and that sometimes we can feel a little exhausted by anxiety and depression. Fortunately, there's always a way out, and I'm here to assist you. I'm Dr. Lampton, and I'm here to be your ally on this journey back to your best self. I have a deep-rooted passion for enhancing mental health and wellness, and I'm here to support you through anxiety, depression, grief, and major life changes.
We all know that life can be a bit of a rollercoaster and that sometimes we can feel a little exhausted by anxiety and depression. Fortunately, there's always a way out, and I'm here to assist you. I'm Dr. Lampton, and I'm here to be your ally on this journey back to your best self. I have a deep-rooted passion for enhancing mental health and wellness, and I'm here to support you through anxiety, depression, grief, and major life changes.
(725) 215-0187 View (725) 215-0187
Photo of Mia Weiler, Counselor in Henderson, NV
Mia Weiler
Counselor, LMHC, LCPC, APCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Henderson, NV 89074
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions? Have you experienced loss, trauma, or other challenges? I am here for you, to help you overcome the emotional pain of past experiences. As a teen, I myself personally experienced the devastating losses of multiple loved ones. Through my own heartbreak, emotional pain, and grief, I was even more inspired to comfort and sit with others during their most challenging times. Funny thing is: I knew I wanted to become a psychotherapist before I even know what a therapist was! I feel so lucky today to counsel clients with such diverse and different stories, backgrounds, and experiences.
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions? Have you experienced loss, trauma, or other challenges? I am here for you, to help you overcome the emotional pain of past experiences. As a teen, I myself personally experienced the devastating losses of multiple loved ones. Through my own heartbreak, emotional pain, and grief, I was even more inspired to comfort and sit with others during their most challenging times. Funny thing is: I knew I wanted to become a psychotherapist before I even know what a therapist was! I feel so lucky today to counsel clients with such diverse and different stories, backgrounds, and experiences.
(310) 691-1163 View (310) 691-1163
Photo of Jenya Veren, Marriage & Family Therapist in Henderson, NV
Jenya Veren
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89074  (Online Only)
Chronic Illness. Grief. Loss. Death. Disability. Individual therapy for people who are dealing with serious or life-threatening illnesses, anxiety or depression due to health issues or experiencing grieving due to a loss or death of a loved one. Navigating these difficult experiences can be extremely overwhelming. I can help you during this challenging journey by providing emotional support. We will process your experiences and complex emotions together and help you find healing, hope, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Chronic Illness. Grief. Loss. Death. Disability. Individual therapy for people who are dealing with serious or life-threatening illnesses, anxiety or depression due to health issues or experiencing grieving due to a loss or death of a loved one. Navigating these difficult experiences can be extremely overwhelming. I can help you during this challenging journey by providing emotional support. We will process your experiences and complex emotions together and help you find healing, hope, and resilience in the face of adversity.
(702) 723-4258 View (702) 723-4258
Photo of Anna Darbonne, Psychologist in Henderson, NV
Anna Darbonne
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89012
As a highly specialized psychologist with expertise in grief, life transitions, and personal transformations, and as an author and entrepreneur, I bring unique experiences to therapy.
You want things to be better – next level, even. You’re tired of feeling stuck, burnt out, overwhelmed, and unfulfilled. You're heartbroken with grief as you mourn the loss of a special someone, something, or dream. The constant high expectations (of yourself and others) is exhausting, and the people-pleasing is wearing you down so there’s not much time or energy left for pleasure or fun. You’re ready to make positive changes and to grieve well, but you need some support in the process. Let's connect so you can start to live with greater ease, transform your loss into deeper love and meaningful purpose, and feel more fulfilled,
As a highly specialized psychologist with expertise in grief, life transitions, and personal transformations, and as an author and entrepreneur, I bring unique experiences to therapy.
You want things to be better – next level, even. You’re tired of feeling stuck, burnt out, overwhelmed, and unfulfilled. You're heartbroken with grief as you mourn the loss of a special someone, something, or dream. The constant high expectations (of yourself and others) is exhausting, and the people-pleasing is wearing you down so there’s not much time or energy left for pleasure or fun. You’re ready to make positive changes and to grieve well, but you need some support in the process. Let's connect so you can start to live with greater ease, transform your loss into deeper love and meaningful purpose, and feel more fulfilled,
(725) 726-3614 View (725) 726-3614
Photo of Sam Heinrichs, Marriage & Family Therapist in Henderson, NV
Sam Heinrichs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89052
working through life trauma; and helping people work through grief, anxiety/stress, depression, and self-esteem issues.
Sam is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist holding licenses in Nevada and California. A native of Iowa, he lived in Southern California for 30 years and settled in Las Vegas in 2020. He graduated from Grand View College – Des Moines, Iowa with a bachelor's d and a Master of Science degree in Counseling from California State University – Long Beach. After many years of working in the corporate world of mental health, he is returning to his real passion – working directly with individuals, couples, and families to assist with the challenges people encountered on this journey called life.
working through life trauma; and helping people work through grief, anxiety/stress, depression, and self-esteem issues.
Sam is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist holding licenses in Nevada and California. A native of Iowa, he lived in Southern California for 30 years and settled in Las Vegas in 2020. He graduated from Grand View College – Des Moines, Iowa with a bachelor's d and a Master of Science degree in Counseling from California State University – Long Beach. After many years of working in the corporate world of mental health, he is returning to his real passion – working directly with individuals, couples, and families to assist with the challenges people encountered on this journey called life.
(702) 487-9270 View (702) 487-9270
Photo of Jon Wotell Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Henderson, NV
Jon Wotell Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89074  (Online Only)
I know that life can be difficult, but therapy can help with life's challenges. I offer a nonjudgmental, confidential, compassionate, and emotionally warm space for us to work together through your particular challenges. I have experience working with clients who are feeling anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, or feeling overwhelmed navigating life's changes. Therapy can be a place to learn effective coping skills to manage stressors, to improve your own self compassion, to focus on personal growth and to explore possibilities for the future.
I know that life can be difficult, but therapy can help with life's challenges. I offer a nonjudgmental, confidential, compassionate, and emotionally warm space for us to work together through your particular challenges. I have experience working with clients who are feeling anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, or feeling overwhelmed navigating life's changes. Therapy can be a place to learn effective coping skills to manage stressors, to improve your own self compassion, to focus on personal growth and to explore possibilities for the future.
(725) 888-5362 View (725) 888-5362
Photo of Kristina Clawson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Henderson, NV
Kristina Clawson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT , Intern
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89074
I believe the best work is done with a therapist who meets you where you are while challenging you to meet your potential. I am a compassionate and patient therapist and clear communication is my style. I work with individuals and couples who have experienced trauma in their lives and in their relationships to create new patterns. I have experience and speciality working with women dealing with perinatal mental health concerns including: Pregnancy and /or infant loss, infertility, postpartum depression, and anxiety. I have specialty training working with couples who have experienced betrayal trauma.
I believe the best work is done with a therapist who meets you where you are while challenging you to meet your potential. I am a compassionate and patient therapist and clear communication is my style. I work with individuals and couples who have experienced trauma in their lives and in their relationships to create new patterns. I have experience and speciality working with women dealing with perinatal mental health concerns including: Pregnancy and /or infant loss, infertility, postpartum depression, and anxiety. I have specialty training working with couples who have experienced betrayal trauma.
(702) 789-7709 View (702) 789-7709
Photo of Arlene M Hummel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Henderson, NV
Arlene M Hummel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MEd, MFT
Verified Verified
Henderson, NV 89052
I believe that life is truly a journey and that each of us has a unique family and individual "life story." As your therapist, I will guide you with a holistic approach in exploring that story, its challenges and times of strength, patterns of behavior and the current events in your life. I will assist as you identify your needs, set new goals and implement strategies to affect change. Together we will navigate through pain, anxiety, trauma, loss, depression, stressors, family, parenting, and relationship issues, while focusing on your inner strength and resources to resolve challenges.
I believe that life is truly a journey and that each of us has a unique family and individual "life story." As your therapist, I will guide you with a holistic approach in exploring that story, its challenges and times of strength, patterns of behavior and the current events in your life. I will assist as you identify your needs, set new goals and implement strategies to affect change. Together we will navigate through pain, anxiety, trauma, loss, depression, stressors, family, parenting, and relationship issues, while focusing on your inner strength and resources to resolve challenges.
(702) 789-7649 x3 View (702) 789-7649 x3
Photo of Jonathan Wotell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Henderson, NV
Jonathan Wotell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Henderson, NV 89074  (Online Only)
Are you overwhelmed and stressed out with all the changes in your life? Do you feel like you are a failure and you can't get anything right? Do you feel alone and trapped and have no other way out? You are dealing with something really hard, but you don’t have to do it alone. Mr. Wotell is passionate about working with people from diverse backgrounds who are looking for help with various presenting problems including anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, grief, life stage adjustment, and substance abuse. He also works with couples, LGBT+ issues, and disability issues.
Are you overwhelmed and stressed out with all the changes in your life? Do you feel like you are a failure and you can't get anything right? Do you feel alone and trapped and have no other way out? You are dealing with something really hard, but you don’t have to do it alone. Mr. Wotell is passionate about working with people from diverse backgrounds who are looking for help with various presenting problems including anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, grief, life stage adjustment, and substance abuse. He also works with couples, LGBT+ issues, and disability issues.
(725) 444-8918 View (725) 444-8918
Photo of Erika Teresa Haggerty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Henderson, NV
Erika Teresa Haggerty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Henderson, NV 89074
Life can be a wild ride and we can easily lose sight of our values and strengths. Through an unwavering therapeutic relationship we can explore past experiences, unhealthy relationship patterns, behaviors, worries, trauma, grief and loss. Together we can create a plan that will focus on your needs and happiness. You will begin to take control of your life, and make decisions that get you to where you want to be.
Life can be a wild ride and we can easily lose sight of our values and strengths. Through an unwavering therapeutic relationship we can explore past experiences, unhealthy relationship patterns, behaviors, worries, trauma, grief and loss. Together we can create a plan that will focus on your needs and happiness. You will begin to take control of your life, and make decisions that get you to where you want to be.
(702) 710-7681 View (702) 710-7681
Photo of Nelandra Anselmo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Henderson, NV
Nelandra Anselmo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89052
Time for a change?... My goal is to support each client in their unique journey to become empowered to live better. I have supported adults, adolescents, couples and families through transition and helped them manage change in many areas of their lives, including: Relationship Issues - Pre-marital and Marital Counseling - Stress, Anxiety and Depression - Trauma - Self-Esteem and Identity Issues - Divorce and Blended Families - Grief and Loss - Career Transition and Decision-Making
Time for a change?... My goal is to support each client in their unique journey to become empowered to live better. I have supported adults, adolescents, couples and families through transition and helped them manage change in many areas of their lives, including: Relationship Issues - Pre-marital and Marital Counseling - Stress, Anxiety and Depression - Trauma - Self-Esteem and Identity Issues - Divorce and Blended Families - Grief and Loss - Career Transition and Decision-Making
(702) 809-3555 View (702) 809-3555
Photo of Ashton Martini, Marriage & Family Therapist in Henderson, NV
Ashton Martini
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCADC
Verified Verified
Henderson, NV 89052
Waitlist for new clients
I provide services that span from therapy for depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, couples and family counseling, parenting support, stress management and conflict resolution.
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and effective techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I provide individual, couples and family counseling. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues.
I provide services that span from therapy for depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, couples and family counseling, parenting support, stress management and conflict resolution.
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and effective techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I provide individual, couples and family counseling. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues.
(702) 919-6808 View (702) 919-6808
Photo of Deirdre Hart Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Henderson, NV
Deirdre Hart Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, 11084-C
Verified Verified
Henderson, NV 89014
Waitlist for new clients
Some of the tools I use to guide the process are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Grief Therapy, Family Systems, Life Stages, Relational, Somatic Experiencing, Faith Based and Play Therapy.
I love the collaborative and creative work of therapy. I see my role, not only as a trained practitioner of clinical modalities, but also as one of a midwife or gardener. I believe each of us has the wisdom of what we need to heal within us. It is not my job to teach you how to be a better person or to become whole . . . our work in therapy is to help you remember that you are and always have been—whole. Together we compost the trauma of the past and rotate, turn it, and bring it to light so that it can fertilize the soil for growth. I work with children, families, couples, and individuals of all ages.
Some of the tools I use to guide the process are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Grief Therapy, Family Systems, Life Stages, Relational, Somatic Experiencing, Faith Based and Play Therapy.
I love the collaborative and creative work of therapy. I see my role, not only as a trained practitioner of clinical modalities, but also as one of a midwife or gardener. I believe each of us has the wisdom of what we need to heal within us. It is not my job to teach you how to be a better person or to become whole . . . our work in therapy is to help you remember that you are and always have been—whole. Together we compost the trauma of the past and rotate, turn it, and bring it to light so that it can fertilize the soil for growth. I work with children, families, couples, and individuals of all ages.
(702) 553-1494 View (702) 553-1494
Photo of Emma Clayton, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Henderson, NV
Emma Clayton
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, MFT-I
Verified Verified
Henderson, NV 89014  (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, grief and loss, spiritual or existential questions, and relationships are areas of the human experience that I most frequently work with.
I'm here to offer you a safe space where you can explore your emotions, heal from past wounds, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth. It takes immense courage to look deeper at yourself, but it is also the path to freedom and authenticity. This path allows us to respond to our circumstances in ways that bring genuine peace and happiness. You deserve a life that is fulfilling and I'd be honored to accompany you on the path to finding what that looks like.
Anxiety, depression, grief and loss, spiritual or existential questions, and relationships are areas of the human experience that I most frequently work with.
I'm here to offer you a safe space where you can explore your emotions, heal from past wounds, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth. It takes immense courage to look deeper at yourself, but it is also the path to freedom and authenticity. This path allows us to respond to our circumstances in ways that bring genuine peace and happiness. You deserve a life that is fulfilling and I'd be honored to accompany you on the path to finding what that looks like.
(702) 779-6784 View (702) 779-6784
Photo of Janna L. Broxterman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Henderson, NV
Janna L. Broxterman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Henderson, NV 89052
I specialize in couples work, life & career coaching, adolescent and family issues, addictions, grief, and post traumatic stress.
I am an experienced licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My focus lies with couples,individuals, adolescents, and families. Whether it is relationship issues, family dynamics, or individual coaching, all problems can be processed and resolved successfully! It is also important to have a strong, trusting relationship with your therapist, and that is an immediate goal in my sessions. My focus with relationships and families are developing healthy communication skills, acceptance, respect, and above all trust. I also specialize in addictions and the problems usually affect not just the one, but all who love and support them as well.
I specialize in couples work, life & career coaching, adolescent and family issues, addictions, grief, and post traumatic stress.
I am an experienced licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My focus lies with couples,individuals, adolescents, and families. Whether it is relationship issues, family dynamics, or individual coaching, all problems can be processed and resolved successfully! It is also important to have a strong, trusting relationship with your therapist, and that is an immediate goal in my sessions. My focus with relationships and families are developing healthy communication skills, acceptance, respect, and above all trust. I also specialize in addictions and the problems usually affect not just the one, but all who love and support them as well.
(702) 551-2224 View (702) 551-2224
Photo of Evan Fertel, Pre-Licensed Professional in Henderson, NV
Evan Fertel
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89074
As a pre-licensed professional, I possess 10 years of clinical experience working with diverse clients and a wide array of concerns including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, eating/body image struggles, trauma, sexual/relationship difficulties, grief, chronic illness/pain, disability, OCD, and personality challenges (e.
As a Postdoctoral Fellow at The Evidence Based Practice of Nevada (The EBP), I am working towards licensure as a psychologist in Nevada under the supervision of Dr. Whitney Koch Owens and Dr. Adrianna Wechsler Zimring. At The EBP, I conduct psychotherapy with adults, couples, and groups, using established evidence-based practices. Additionally, I perform assessment and evaluation for select client populations. I completed my doctoral training in clinical psychology at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) where I continue to teach upper division courses for the Psychology Department.
As a pre-licensed professional, I possess 10 years of clinical experience working with diverse clients and a wide array of concerns including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, eating/body image struggles, trauma, sexual/relationship difficulties, grief, chronic illness/pain, disability, OCD, and personality challenges (e.
As a Postdoctoral Fellow at The Evidence Based Practice of Nevada (The EBP), I am working towards licensure as a psychologist in Nevada under the supervision of Dr. Whitney Koch Owens and Dr. Adrianna Wechsler Zimring. At The EBP, I conduct psychotherapy with adults, couples, and groups, using established evidence-based practices. Additionally, I perform assessment and evaluation for select client populations. I completed my doctoral training in clinical psychology at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) where I continue to teach upper division courses for the Psychology Department.
(702) 447-0159 View (702) 447-0159
Photo of Shannon Gilland, LPC Intern in Henderson, NV
Shannon Gilland
LPC Intern, CPC-I, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89074
Shannon is able to understand these challenges as they relate to your life and to your mental health. Whether it is anxiety, depression, family issues, relationship conflict, grief, or trauma, Shannon would love to accompany you through the troubled times. Shannon’s experience in working with adults, children, couples, and families allows her to help guide you through your struggles. Shannon has over a decade of experience in the mental health field, graduated with a Master's in Clinical Professional Counseling and appreciates Mt. Charleston hikes, climbing at the Valley of Fire and, of course, the Golden Knights.
Shannon is able to understand these challenges as they relate to your life and to your mental health. Whether it is anxiety, depression, family issues, relationship conflict, grief, or trauma, Shannon would love to accompany you through the troubled times. Shannon’s experience in working with adults, children, couples, and families allows her to help guide you through your struggles. Shannon has over a decade of experience in the mental health field, graduated with a Master's in Clinical Professional Counseling and appreciates Mt. Charleston hikes, climbing at the Valley of Fire and, of course, the Golden Knights.
(725) 213-9261 View (725) 213-9261
Photo of Victor Caruso, Marriage & Family Therapist in Henderson, NV
Victor Caruso
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89052
If you are experiencing a specific struggle such as trauma, infidelity, grief, anxiety, or depression, I am confident I can aid you in reclaiming your emotional self.
Life has a way of reminding us that we can't do it all alone. At times, we may need support or just someone who will listen. I am here to help you discover balance, redefine your situation, and move forward toward your personal freedom. I have had a diverse experience in working with individuals, couples, families, and children/adolescents. I am also licensed to provide treatment for individuals struggling with addiction and their affected family members. Additionally, I am a primary supervisor currently accepting state interns.
If you are experiencing a specific struggle such as trauma, infidelity, grief, anxiety, or depression, I am confident I can aid you in reclaiming your emotional self.
Life has a way of reminding us that we can't do it all alone. At times, we may need support or just someone who will listen. I am here to help you discover balance, redefine your situation, and move forward toward your personal freedom. I have had a diverse experience in working with individuals, couples, families, and children/adolescents. I am also licensed to provide treatment for individuals struggling with addiction and their affected family members. Additionally, I am a primary supervisor currently accepting state interns.
(702) 500-1564 View (702) 500-1564
Photo of Jimmy Durbin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Henderson, NV
Jimmy Durbin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, LCADC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89015
Teaches how to metabolize four energies that every human being deals with each day: Stress, Shame, Trauma & Grief.
Jimmy is a trauma therapist who specializes in cutting edge brain and body-based modalities for the healing of complex trauma. Jimmy is in long-term recovery from pornography, alcohol, heroin, meth, bulimia and prescription pills. His history includes an attempted suicide, depression, self-hate and homelessness. Through God’s tender mercies, while applying a spiritual program of action into his life, Jimmy has become aware of his pride, ego and developed a manner of living that allows him to live “Wholehearted”.
Teaches how to metabolize four energies that every human being deals with each day: Stress, Shame, Trauma & Grief.
Jimmy is a trauma therapist who specializes in cutting edge brain and body-based modalities for the healing of complex trauma. Jimmy is in long-term recovery from pornography, alcohol, heroin, meth, bulimia and prescription pills. His history includes an attempted suicide, depression, self-hate and homelessness. Through God’s tender mercies, while applying a spiritual program of action into his life, Jimmy has become aware of his pride, ego and developed a manner of living that allows him to live “Wholehearted”.
(725) 726-5004 View (725) 726-5004

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.