Photo of Norma L. Welitoff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rhode Island
Norma L. Welitoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Are you or a family member struggling with depression, anxiety, conflict with your relationship(s), or issues of loss and grief? Do you struggle with managing the daily stresses in your life? I treat men, women, teens, and children in individual, couples, and family therapy. Areas of care include stress management, life transitions, depression, PTSD, anxiety, marital / divorce, grief, trauma, chronic and terminal illness, self esteem, parenting, behavioral problems, verbal, emotional, and sexual abuse.
Are you or a family member struggling with depression, anxiety, conflict with your relationship(s), or issues of loss and grief? Do you struggle with managing the daily stresses in your life? I treat men, women, teens, and children in individual, couples, and family therapy. Areas of care include stress management, life transitions, depression, PTSD, anxiety, marital / divorce, grief, trauma, chronic and terminal illness, self esteem, parenting, behavioral problems, verbal, emotional, and sexual abuse.
(401) 287-2015 View (401) 287-2015
Photo of Jack Tillman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rhode Island
Jack Tillman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02906
My commitment as a therapist is to provide a warm and affirming environment where clients can receive support metabolizing trauma and restore a sense of safety, trust, and authentic re-connection to themselves. Utilizing a psychodynamic approach that is nurturing, collaborative, and informed by an anti-oppressive framework, I work with clients to navigate the heartache of grief and loss, to explore how past relationship dynamics impact them in the present, to attend to ways of adapting that no longer serve them, and to learn new and alternative ways of relating.
My commitment as a therapist is to provide a warm and affirming environment where clients can receive support metabolizing trauma and restore a sense of safety, trust, and authentic re-connection to themselves. Utilizing a psychodynamic approach that is nurturing, collaborative, and informed by an anti-oppressive framework, I work with clients to navigate the heartache of grief and loss, to explore how past relationship dynamics impact them in the present, to attend to ways of adapting that no longer serve them, and to learn new and alternative ways of relating.
(401) 388-4118 View (401) 388-4118
Peter G Erickson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02906
Relationships and life transitions often involve loss, grief, and sadness. Emotional pain, moreover, often makes everyday life seem unbearable and exhausting. Outpatient counseling and psychotherapy - both marital and individual - can facilitate the relief of the sadness, confusion, and anxiety that are part of working through personal and relational stressors. The approaches and models in which I have been trained and educated - interpersonal, cognitive behavioral, and psychodynamic therapies - are also informed by and infused with with the essential, humane and core qualities of empathy, understanding, warmth, and genuineness.
Relationships and life transitions often involve loss, grief, and sadness. Emotional pain, moreover, often makes everyday life seem unbearable and exhausting. Outpatient counseling and psychotherapy - both marital and individual - can facilitate the relief of the sadness, confusion, and anxiety that are part of working through personal and relational stressors. The approaches and models in which I have been trained and educated - interpersonal, cognitive behavioral, and psychodynamic therapies - are also informed by and infused with with the essential, humane and core qualities of empathy, understanding, warmth, and genuineness.
(401) 244-8539 View (401) 244-8539
Photo of Carrie Ruggieri, Counselor in Rhode Island
Carrie Ruggieri
Counselor, LMHC, BCETS
Verified Verified
Barrington, RI 02806  (Online Only)
I have advanced training in the treatment of attachment trauma, effects of childhood trauma in adulthood, & traumatic grief.
I work within a psychotherapy model that is called AEDP. AEDP is an approach to healing that starts with the premise that all symptoms are creative adaptations to painful or traumatic circumstances. We recognize the resilience underlying symptoms, as opposed to viewing symptoms as a pathological. AEDP is grounded in affective neuroscience and in psychotherapy research.
I have advanced training in the treatment of attachment trauma, effects of childhood trauma in adulthood, & traumatic grief.
I work within a psychotherapy model that is called AEDP. AEDP is an approach to healing that starts with the premise that all symptoms are creative adaptations to painful or traumatic circumstances. We recognize the resilience underlying symptoms, as opposed to viewing symptoms as a pathological. AEDP is grounded in affective neuroscience and in psychotherapy research.
(401) 489-2172 View (401) 489-2172
Photo of Joyce M Elias, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rhode Island
Joyce M Elias
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerly, RI 02891
Problems are meant to be worked on, people are meant to be worked with. The therapy process offers a way to work through your problems while you are partnered with, heard and supported. Many paths can be taken, all intersect with the paths of others. If your path involves grief over the loss of a loved one, relationship, health, home, job, way of life, part of yourself, then I can help. If, along the way, you struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationship stress, parenting or eldercare, I can equip you with tools and skills to help you cope.
Problems are meant to be worked on, people are meant to be worked with. The therapy process offers a way to work through your problems while you are partnered with, heard and supported. Many paths can be taken, all intersect with the paths of others. If your path involves grief over the loss of a loved one, relationship, health, home, job, way of life, part of yourself, then I can help. If, along the way, you struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationship stress, parenting or eldercare, I can equip you with tools and skills to help you cope.
(860) 237-4304 View (860) 237-4304
Photo of Diana Cavaliere Cooke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rhode Island
Diana Cavaliere Cooke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chepachet, RI 02814  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and families with hearing loss and Deafness. As a specialist in hearing loss and the psychosocial effects of Deafness I work with people on building and maintaining solid relationships. Growth and change are always possible and a core foundation to my approach. Learning to balance your stressors negative and positive is what makes change possible, and is how I will work with you towards building hope. My VP number for Deaf clients is 860-591-9088. I am licensed to practice in Rhode Island and Connecticut.
I work with individuals and families with hearing loss and Deafness. As a specialist in hearing loss and the psychosocial effects of Deafness I work with people on building and maintaining solid relationships. Growth and change are always possible and a core foundation to my approach. Learning to balance your stressors negative and positive is what makes change possible, and is how I will work with you towards building hope. My VP number for Deaf clients is 860-591-9088. I am licensed to practice in Rhode Island and Connecticut.
(860) 431-2109 View (860) 431-2109
Photo of Jessica Hornig, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rhode Island
Jessica Hornig, MSW, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02903  (Online Only)
I help clients with grief and loss issues and have over a decade of hospital-based social work experience, helping clients work through end-of-life issues, sudden traumatic losses, pregnancy losses, & difficult diagnoses.
Welcome and thank you for your interest in my practice. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts with 20 years of experience helping clients work through personal challenges. I focus on developing and fostering a safe, non-judgmental space in which clients can more comfortably explore their struggles and barriers to self-fulfillment. My approach to therapy is integrative and draws on multiple modalities, thus allowing me to tailor how I work with each client as an individual.
I help clients with grief and loss issues and have over a decade of hospital-based social work experience, helping clients work through end-of-life issues, sudden traumatic losses, pregnancy losses, & difficult diagnoses.
Welcome and thank you for your interest in my practice. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts with 20 years of experience helping clients work through personal challenges. I focus on developing and fostering a safe, non-judgmental space in which clients can more comfortably explore their struggles and barriers to self-fulfillment. My approach to therapy is integrative and draws on multiple modalities, thus allowing me to tailor how I work with each client as an individual.
(401) 249-4351 View (401) 249-4351
Photo of Carol A Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rhode Island
Carol A Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
When pain overwhelms joys; when core longings for love, acceptance, respect, safety, and significance are met with rejection, betrayal, loss, and questioning; when depression, anxiety, confusion, and conflicts drain us, we long for hope that relief and change are possible. We want to know that we're not alone in our struggles.
When pain overwhelms joys; when core longings for love, acceptance, respect, safety, and significance are met with rejection, betrayal, loss, and questioning; when depression, anxiety, confusion, and conflicts drain us, we long for hope that relief and change are possible. We want to know that we're not alone in our struggles.
(401) 519-9313 x3 View (401) 519-9313 x3
Photo of Dr. Danielle DeSantis, PsyD, LMFT, Psychologist in Rhode Island
Dr. Danielle DeSantis, PsyD, LMFT
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02920
I focus on careful assessment and helping those in need of clinical services using a variety of evidenced based approaches. In my practice, I use a variety of treatment modalities such as individual, couple, group, and family therapy depending on individual needs. I have much experience working with psychiatric and behavioral problems such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, trauma-related disorders and so on. Teaching individuals how to manage and cope with symptoms of grief, marital problems, family conflict, divorce, parenting issues, and other relational problems are additional areas of specialty.
I focus on careful assessment and helping those in need of clinical services using a variety of evidenced based approaches. In my practice, I use a variety of treatment modalities such as individual, couple, group, and family therapy depending on individual needs. I have much experience working with psychiatric and behavioral problems such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, trauma-related disorders and so on. Teaching individuals how to manage and cope with symptoms of grief, marital problems, family conflict, divorce, parenting issues, and other relational problems are additional areas of specialty.
(401) 371-0223 View (401) 371-0223
Photo of Melissa Lavender, Pre-Licensed Professional in Rhode Island
Melissa Lavender
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincoln, RI 02865
I have specialized training in Grief & Loss Counseling and Perinatal Mental Health.
“Pain is important: how we evade it, how we succumb to it, how we deal with it, how we transcend it.” ― Audre Lorde. During certain life stages or circumstances, it can be difficult to find the right support or feel understood. These experiences or transitions can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and other mental health symptoms, and sometimes you just need a compassionate ear or fresh perspective. Whether you have experienced a loss, become a first-time parent, or other significant life transition, therapy can be a useful tool to gain coping skills, learn about yourself, and develop new insight in many areas of your life.
I have specialized training in Grief & Loss Counseling and Perinatal Mental Health.
“Pain is important: how we evade it, how we succumb to it, how we deal with it, how we transcend it.” ― Audre Lorde. During certain life stages or circumstances, it can be difficult to find the right support or feel understood. These experiences or transitions can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and other mental health symptoms, and sometimes you just need a compassionate ear or fresh perspective. Whether you have experienced a loss, become a first-time parent, or other significant life transition, therapy can be a useful tool to gain coping skills, learn about yourself, and develop new insight in many areas of your life.
(401) 398-5161 View (401) 398-5161
Photo of Robert Murphy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rhode Island
Robert Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CGP
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02906
People come to see me for lots of different reasons. Some are struggling with anxiety, depression, or a crippling addiction. Some are having difficulty in their relationships with others. Some are going through a difficult time - a mid life crisis, the loss of a job or a loved one, or a frightening medical diagnosis. Most are tired of repeating unconscious patterns that were learned long ago that continue to be played out in spite of their best efforts. All are seeking a happier, healthier life and a way to achieve that. Psychotherapy is the best place to invest in oneself and work toward these goals.
People come to see me for lots of different reasons. Some are struggling with anxiety, depression, or a crippling addiction. Some are having difficulty in their relationships with others. Some are going through a difficult time - a mid life crisis, the loss of a job or a loved one, or a frightening medical diagnosis. Most are tired of repeating unconscious patterns that were learned long ago that continue to be played out in spite of their best efforts. All are seeking a happier, healthier life and a way to achieve that. Psychotherapy is the best place to invest in oneself and work toward these goals.
(646) 553-3150 View (646) 553-3150
Photo of Rachael Alba, Counselor in Rhode Island
Rachael Alba
Counselor, MA, LMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Riverside, RI 02915
Are you experiencing anxiety or grief due to loss, trauma, fertility issues, or perinatal concerns? Perhaps you’re experiencing debilitating fear and you're ready to ask for help. These experiences can keep you from enjoying your life and relationships and leave you feeling isolated. Maybe it seems like things will never get better but you still find yourself reaching for a state of calm and clear? If you wish to feel empowered with resources that will strengthen you during transitional times in your life, you're in the right place. I can confidently help you navigate to a more hopeful and peaceful place. I'm happy to help!
Are you experiencing anxiety or grief due to loss, trauma, fertility issues, or perinatal concerns? Perhaps you’re experiencing debilitating fear and you're ready to ask for help. These experiences can keep you from enjoying your life and relationships and leave you feeling isolated. Maybe it seems like things will never get better but you still find yourself reaching for a state of calm and clear? If you wish to feel empowered with resources that will strengthen you during transitional times in your life, you're in the right place. I can confidently help you navigate to a more hopeful and peaceful place. I'm happy to help!
(401) 214-6325 View (401) 214-6325
Photo of Frank Sorensen, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Rhode Island
Frank Sorensen
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LCDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frank has extensive training and experience in trauma resolution work to counsel those affected by death, war, childhood abuse, illness, grief and loss.
Frank Sorensen, M.Ed, LMHC, LCDP is a psychotherapist with over twenty years experience counseling adolescents and adults with substance abuse and mental health issues. He has worked with diverse populations in various clinical settings such as hospitals, prisons, residential and intensive outpatient treatment programs. Frank obtained his Masters degree in Counseling Psychology from Cambridge College in 1999. Frank has a deep respect for each individual he encounters in his practice. He sees the innate goodness and the potential for wholeness in every person.
Frank has extensive training and experience in trauma resolution work to counsel those affected by death, war, childhood abuse, illness, grief and loss.
Frank Sorensen, M.Ed, LMHC, LCDP is a psychotherapist with over twenty years experience counseling adolescents and adults with substance abuse and mental health issues. He has worked with diverse populations in various clinical settings such as hospitals, prisons, residential and intensive outpatient treatment programs. Frank obtained his Masters degree in Counseling Psychology from Cambridge College in 1999. Frank has a deep respect for each individual he encounters in his practice. He sees the innate goodness and the potential for wholeness in every person.
(401) 354-1767 View (401) 354-1767
Photo of Carolynn L. Vallot, Counselor in Rhode Island
Carolynn L. Vallot
Counselor, MA, CAGS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bristol, RI 02809
Everyone experiences challenging situations in their life. It's your honesty and self-awareness that has signaled you to reach out. You already possess the healing power of emotional, spiritual and social well-being. Reigniting your full potential is a goal that my years of professional counseling can help you achieve. I am honored to be available for our returning American Soldiers. I also enjoy Psychotherapy with individuals of the Transgender population. I have an expertise and soft-spot for Couples who have experienced infidelity problems. I believe that Grief and Loss is represented in many situations and I pride myself in Grief/ Loss Psychotherapy.
Everyone experiences challenging situations in their life. It's your honesty and self-awareness that has signaled you to reach out. You already possess the healing power of emotional, spiritual and social well-being. Reigniting your full potential is a goal that my years of professional counseling can help you achieve. I am honored to be available for our returning American Soldiers. I also enjoy Psychotherapy with individuals of the Transgender population. I have an expertise and soft-spot for Couples who have experienced infidelity problems. I believe that Grief and Loss is represented in many situations and I pride myself in Grief/ Loss Psychotherapy.
(401) 312-3959 View (401) 312-3959
Photo of Bradley S. Conners, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rhode Island
Bradley S. Conners
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02886
Current areas of clinical focus include anxiety, depression, men’s issues, life transitions, relationship issues, grief/loss.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is actively seeking new clients. Since receiving my Master's in Social Work from the University of Connecticut, I have worked with a wide range of clients from children, teens, and adults. I take a strength-based, client-centered approach to the work I do by building rapport and strengthening the therapeutic alliance in order to initiate change. A recent focus of my work is helping men connect to their emotional intelligence to become more vulnerable and honest with their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, helping to strengthen them as fathers, sons, brothers, partners, and friends.
Current areas of clinical focus include anxiety, depression, men’s issues, life transitions, relationship issues, grief/loss.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is actively seeking new clients. Since receiving my Master's in Social Work from the University of Connecticut, I have worked with a wide range of clients from children, teens, and adults. I take a strength-based, client-centered approach to the work I do by building rapport and strengthening the therapeutic alliance in order to initiate change. A recent focus of my work is helping men connect to their emotional intelligence to become more vulnerable and honest with their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, helping to strengthen them as fathers, sons, brothers, partners, and friends.
(401) 298-5920 View (401) 298-5920
Photo of Lisa Davis, Counselor in Rhode Island
Lisa Davis
Counselor, M Ed, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818  (Online Only)
I offer a custom approach for each of my clients! I start with understanding where you are now and the challenges you are facing. I help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. I offer an inclusive, safe space with virtual appointments to suit your schedule. Helping people live a better life is my passion. It might mean learning to set boundaries, working through a loss, life transition or helping you change a pattern of behaviour that is keeping you stuck. My goal is to help you feel better so you can live the life you’ve always dreamed of!
I offer a custom approach for each of my clients! I start with understanding where you are now and the challenges you are facing. I help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. I offer an inclusive, safe space with virtual appointments to suit your schedule. Helping people live a better life is my passion. It might mean learning to set boundaries, working through a loss, life transition or helping you change a pattern of behaviour that is keeping you stuck. My goal is to help you feel better so you can live the life you’ve always dreamed of!
(401) 216-4411 View (401) 216-4411
Photo of Sara Wye, Counselor in Rhode Island
Sara Wye
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Warwick, RI 02893
I have a general practice and have clients dealing with life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship, work, stress, grief, sexual identity issues and sexual and physical trauma.
No one is an island. Meeting with a supportive listener can ease the aloneness when more is going on in your life than you feel you can handle. Telling your story in a safe environment is often the key to hearing and understanding yourself more clearly. My goal is to be a compassionate and non-judgmental witness as you find the answers that are most likely already within you.
I have a general practice and have clients dealing with life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship, work, stress, grief, sexual identity issues and sexual and physical trauma.
No one is an island. Meeting with a supportive listener can ease the aloneness when more is going on in your life than you feel you can handle. Telling your story in a safe environment is often the key to hearing and understanding yourself more clearly. My goal is to be a compassionate and non-judgmental witness as you find the answers that are most likely already within you.
(401) 415-0172 View (401) 415-0172
Photo of John Zeller, Psychologist in Rhode Island
John Zeller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, RI 02871
Welcome. I am a licensed psychologist in private practice, providing evidence-based counseling and psychotherapy for individuals across the lifespan. I have over 20 years of experience providing supportive, professional care to persons struggling with a variety of issues, including: anxiety; depression; stress management; sports/performance psychology; spiritual/religious concerns; loss/grief; relationship difficulties; and trauma.
Welcome. I am a licensed psychologist in private practice, providing evidence-based counseling and psychotherapy for individuals across the lifespan. I have over 20 years of experience providing supportive, professional care to persons struggling with a variety of issues, including: anxiety; depression; stress management; sports/performance psychology; spiritual/religious concerns; loss/grief; relationship difficulties; and trauma.
(401) 287-2214 View (401) 287-2214
Photo of Jane Moffett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rhode Island
Jane Moffett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PhD, SEP
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02909  (Online Only)
Welcome. If you are reading this webpage, you are looking for a therapist who is right for you. I have helped patients suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, bereavement, and relationship ruptures to go on to live full and authentic lives. I employ traditional psychotherapy approaches, as well as Somatic Experiencing and EMDR, to provide safe and compassionate care. If you have been struggling with issues for some time, it is natural to feel a sense of hopelessness. I will take time to understand your healing journey, so we can work together for you to have greater peace of mind and be better equipped for life's challenges.
Welcome. If you are reading this webpage, you are looking for a therapist who is right for you. I have helped patients suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, bereavement, and relationship ruptures to go on to live full and authentic lives. I employ traditional psychotherapy approaches, as well as Somatic Experiencing and EMDR, to provide safe and compassionate care. If you have been struggling with issues for some time, it is natural to feel a sense of hopelessness. I will take time to understand your healing journey, so we can work together for you to have greater peace of mind and be better equipped for life's challenges.
(401) 289-1467 View (401) 289-1467
Photo of Ryan Porell, Psychologist in Rhode Island
Ryan Porell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wakefield, RI 02879
I work with adolescents and adults as they work through issues related to mood, anxiety, grief, sexuality and relationship issues. I believe in the importance of finding satisfaction in your relationships. In my view, the majority of mood symptoms stem from relational issues and the way we interact with people. Positive, satisfying connections to people is fundamental to mental health.
I work with adolescents and adults as they work through issues related to mood, anxiety, grief, sexuality and relationship issues. I believe in the importance of finding satisfaction in your relationships. In my view, the majority of mood symptoms stem from relational issues and the way we interact with people. Positive, satisfying connections to people is fundamental to mental health.
(401) 409-7270 View (401) 409-7270

See more therapy options for Rhode Island

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.