Grief Therapists in Nashville, TN

Photo of Austin McCarthy, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Austin McCarthy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
If you're experiencing grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions I’d be honored to work with you.
I work with grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. My approach is holistic, brain-based, and relational.
If you're experiencing grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions I’d be honored to work with you.
I work with grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. My approach is holistic, brain-based, and relational.
(629) 260-5412 View (629) 260-5412
Photo of Janetta Fleming, RN, LPC, MHSP, PMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janetta Fleming
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, LPC, MHSP, PMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Losses may make you think that sorrow must be the price of life.
I am available to work with individuals experiencing distress, especially anxiety and depression, women with mood disorders surrounding infertility and pregnancy, infant loss, and miscarriage as well as couples with relational conflict. Contemporary life is full of loneliness, stress, trauma and many faces of grief. Whether it be through setting long or short term therapeutic goals, I can help you create a new spirit of resilience.
Losses may make you think that sorrow must be the price of life.
I am available to work with individuals experiencing distress, especially anxiety and depression, women with mood disorders surrounding infertility and pregnancy, infant loss, and miscarriage as well as couples with relational conflict. Contemporary life is full of loneliness, stress, trauma and many faces of grief. Whether it be through setting long or short term therapeutic goals, I can help you create a new spirit of resilience.
(615) 987-0982 View (615) 987-0982
Photo of Kate Springer, MMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kate Springer
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
I believe that most of the pain we carry around stems from different aspects of grief and loss.
I am passionate about working with couples and individuals through major transitional stages of life to bring healing from issues of self-worth, core-identity, separation and divorce, anxiety, depression, trauma, major life transitions, grief and loss, spirituality, communication difficulties, conflict management, relational trauma, sexual abuse, and co-dependency. I have completed advanced training to support individuals challenges in the perinatal life phase (conception- postpartum) biological, psychological, and social ramifications that accompany this season of life. My passion is to provide a safe, nurturing environment.
I believe that most of the pain we carry around stems from different aspects of grief and loss.
I am passionate about working with couples and individuals through major transitional stages of life to bring healing from issues of self-worth, core-identity, separation and divorce, anxiety, depression, trauma, major life transitions, grief and loss, spirituality, communication difficulties, conflict management, relational trauma, sexual abuse, and co-dependency. I have completed advanced training to support individuals challenges in the perinatal life phase (conception- postpartum) biological, psychological, and social ramifications that accompany this season of life. My passion is to provide a safe, nurturing environment.
(615) 492-8247 View (615) 492-8247
Photo of Sara Baldwin - Hope Clinic for Women, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hope Clinic for Women
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
Located in Nashville, TN our licensed counselors see Individuals, Couples, and Families. We offer counseling for: Pregnancy Loss (Miscarriage, Infant Death, Stillbirth, Failed IVF, Abortion), Adoption-Related Loss, Support for Infertility and Reproductive Health Concerns, Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), STD Diagnoses, Grief, Loss, Relationship issues, Sexual Abuse and Assault, Boundaries, Assertiveness and Communication, Self Esteem, and Pornography/Sexual Addiction. We are a faith-based, safe, and confidential place, providing professional counseling regardless of age, race, or religion.
Located in Nashville, TN our licensed counselors see Individuals, Couples, and Families. We offer counseling for: Pregnancy Loss (Miscarriage, Infant Death, Stillbirth, Failed IVF, Abortion), Adoption-Related Loss, Support for Infertility and Reproductive Health Concerns, Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), STD Diagnoses, Grief, Loss, Relationship issues, Sexual Abuse and Assault, Boundaries, Assertiveness and Communication, Self Esteem, and Pornography/Sexual Addiction. We are a faith-based, safe, and confidential place, providing professional counseling regardless of age, race, or religion.
(615) 551-3311 View (615) 551-3311
Photo of Veronica H Dailey, MS, MDiv, Pre-Licensed Professional
Veronica H Dailey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37214
While journeying through my on-life challenges I experienced anxiety, stress, grief, loss, and trauma from different areas, certainly it has not been easy.
My goal is to foster self-creativity and self-inquiry helping to ease, heal, and understand difficult emotions, and stressors, while supplying a non-judgmental safe environment to openly express your thoughts and emotions while journeying to wholeness mind, body, and spirit. As you conquer life’s challenges and goals, we will work to identify growth and changes that support your healing journey.
While journeying through my on-life challenges I experienced anxiety, stress, grief, loss, and trauma from different areas, certainly it has not been easy.
My goal is to foster self-creativity and self-inquiry helping to ease, heal, and understand difficult emotions, and stressors, while supplying a non-judgmental safe environment to openly express your thoughts and emotions while journeying to wholeness mind, body, and spirit. As you conquer life’s challenges and goals, we will work to identify growth and changes that support your healing journey.
(615) 701-6598 View (615) 701-6598
Photo of Blythe Corinne Landry, LCSW, MSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Blythe Corinne Landry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37213
I specialize in working with clients dealing with complex loss experiences, addiction to sex, relationships and substances, and those with a personal trauma story they are seeking to share and heal.
Isolated? Fearful? Tired of doing it alone? It's a new day, and I can help. I adhere to the belief that nobody's story is too painful to be heard or healed-even yours. With an emphasis on empowering my clients for long-term change, I have helped hundreds of people coping with trauma, grief/ loss and painful relationship patterns to achieve lasting change. I would be honored to help you too. I am the author of Trauma Intelligence and offer trauma and grief recovery workshops for organizations.
I specialize in working with clients dealing with complex loss experiences, addiction to sex, relationships and substances, and those with a personal trauma story they are seeking to share and heal.
Isolated? Fearful? Tired of doing it alone? It's a new day, and I can help. I adhere to the belief that nobody's story is too painful to be heard or healed-even yours. With an emphasis on empowering my clients for long-term change, I have helped hundreds of people coping with trauma, grief/ loss and painful relationship patterns to achieve lasting change. I would be honored to help you too. I am the author of Trauma Intelligence and offer trauma and grief recovery workshops for organizations.
(773) 417-5294 View (773) 417-5294
Photo of Elizabeth J. Burton, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth J. Burton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Hi! I’m Elizabeth and am so glad you are here looking for a safe space to heal and process life. I support adults navigating anxiety, OCD, depression, grief, behavioral issues, and trauma recovery. I specialize in therapy for attachment & relationship dynamics, trauma & abuse, and perinatal mood & anxiety disorders for expectant and postpartum parents.
Hi! I’m Elizabeth and am so glad you are here looking for a safe space to heal and process life. I support adults navigating anxiety, OCD, depression, grief, behavioral issues, and trauma recovery. I specialize in therapy for attachment & relationship dynamics, trauma & abuse, and perinatal mood & anxiety disorders for expectant and postpartum parents.
(615) 209-9225 View (615) 209-9225
Photo of Dan LaVelle, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dan LaVelle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37220  (Online Only)
I specialize in Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Depression, and Existential Issues.
My goal is to utilize the individual strengths of all clients for the sake of enabling them to accomplish their goals, overcome hardships, and live up to their fullest potential. This possibility is readily available to all willing to adopt new perspectives and practices to their day to day lives. I am passionate about meeting clients where they are for the sake of discovering the perspectives and interests that make people excited about the lives they live. I am credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor/Mental Health Service Provider.
I specialize in Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Depression, and Existential Issues.
My goal is to utilize the individual strengths of all clients for the sake of enabling them to accomplish their goals, overcome hardships, and live up to their fullest potential. This possibility is readily available to all willing to adopt new perspectives and practices to their day to day lives. I am passionate about meeting clients where they are for the sake of discovering the perspectives and interests that make people excited about the lives they live. I am credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor/Mental Health Service Provider.
(615) 667-0330 View (615) 667-0330
Photo of Monica Coverson, LMSW, LSSW, EdD, CCTP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Monica Coverson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW, LSSW, EdD, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
I offer years of experience providing individual and group counseling, including work with survivors of trauma, at-risk youth, individuals struggling with grief/ loss, anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation/self-harm.
One of my very favorite quotes by Brene Brown is, "Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren't always comfortable, but they are never weakness." As life will sometimes present challenges that may be difficult to navigate, it's not necessary to navigate those challenges alone. I would love to support you in discovering the courage to navigate your truth. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I offer treatment that is goal oriented using a variety of therapeutic approaches.
I offer years of experience providing individual and group counseling, including work with survivors of trauma, at-risk youth, individuals struggling with grief/ loss, anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation/self-harm.
One of my very favorite quotes by Brene Brown is, "Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren't always comfortable, but they are never weakness." As life will sometimes present challenges that may be difficult to navigate, it's not necessary to navigate those challenges alone. I would love to support you in discovering the courage to navigate your truth. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I offer treatment that is goal oriented using a variety of therapeutic approaches.
(615) 492-9209 View (615) 492-9209
Photo of Samantha Carter-Orbke, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Carter-Orbke
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37216
Are you finding yourself feeling anxious, depressed, uncertain or overwhelmed? Are you stuck in grief, or struggling with relationships or life changes? Perhaps you're feeling like you don’t belong, or having difficulty trusting or accepting yourself. If any of these describe what you are going through, you’ve come to the right place. I fundamentally believe that everything we do and feel is for a reason, and at any point in our lives we are doing the best we can with the resources we have. My goal is to help you expand those resources so you can confidently face the challenges that brought you here.
Are you finding yourself feeling anxious, depressed, uncertain or overwhelmed? Are you stuck in grief, or struggling with relationships or life changes? Perhaps you're feeling like you don’t belong, or having difficulty trusting or accepting yourself. If any of these describe what you are going through, you’ve come to the right place. I fundamentally believe that everything we do and feel is for a reason, and at any point in our lives we are doing the best we can with the resources we have. My goal is to help you expand those resources so you can confidently face the challenges that brought you here.
(615) 544-6430 View (615) 544-6430
Photo of Kristi Marshall, PhD, LPCMHSP, Counselor
Kristi Marshall
Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I have treated "all things pregnancy" for several years including pregnancy loss, postpartum depression, adoption and infertility.
I consider it an honor to walk alongside my clients on their journey towards healing. My therapy approach is highly collaborative. I value the therapeutic relationship more than any technique or theory itself. Initiating counseling is often a big and difficult step and I do my best to help you feel relaxed, comfortable and welcome. I am passionate about working with clients experiencing loss and grief. Many presenting issues come down to a loss- loss of a loved one, loss of a pregnancy, loss of hopes/dreams, loss of a marriage...and working through loss requires time, connection and a safe place.
I have treated "all things pregnancy" for several years including pregnancy loss, postpartum depression, adoption and infertility.
I consider it an honor to walk alongside my clients on their journey towards healing. My therapy approach is highly collaborative. I value the therapeutic relationship more than any technique or theory itself. Initiating counseling is often a big and difficult step and I do my best to help you feel relaxed, comfortable and welcome. I am passionate about working with clients experiencing loss and grief. Many presenting issues come down to a loss- loss of a loved one, loss of a pregnancy, loss of hopes/dreams, loss of a marriage...and working through loss requires time, connection and a safe place.
(615) 567-5548 View (615) 567-5548
Photo of Kyra Rane Weyenberg, TLMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kyra Rane Weyenberg
Pre-Licensed Professional, TLMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Whether you are burdened with trauma, grief, relationship conflict, or life transitions.
Life feels burdensome. You struggle to keep up with its changes and demands, and often feel overwhelmed. Your relationships feel distressing and distant, and you’re not sure how to make this work anymore. You've experienced loss, and the pain is challenging to manage. It’s an endless cycle leaving you feeling alone and stuck. You want the chaos to quiet, the joy to return, and the darkness to lift. I believe there’s a way through pain and heartache. Let’s uncover hope and healing together.
Whether you are burdened with trauma, grief, relationship conflict, or life transitions.
Life feels burdensome. You struggle to keep up with its changes and demands, and often feel overwhelmed. Your relationships feel distressing and distant, and you’re not sure how to make this work anymore. You've experienced loss, and the pain is challenging to manage. It’s an endless cycle leaving you feeling alone and stuck. You want the chaos to quiet, the joy to return, and the darkness to lift. I believe there’s a way through pain and heartache. Let’s uncover hope and healing together.
(615) 558-8548 View (615) 558-8548
Photo of Walker Duncan, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Walker Duncan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
My specialties include ADHD, Anxiety, Grief, Anger and Addiction with a special focus on supporting men (Ages 15 and up) as they navigate school, relationships, work/career and overall life change.
Wow! There are a LOT of therapists, right? Unless the criteria were super narrow, this list is likely a little overwhelming—a lot of acronyms, a lot of jargon and friendly smiles; maybe fewer cardigans than expected. It’s a lot to consider. For many of us, scrolling through lists like this can feel like running in quicksand. And if you tend to be hard on yourself, it's all the more difficult. Whether you're navigating major life shifts, struggling but still trying to pin down why, or just at a loss and unsure of where/how to start, stick with it. It's OK to take your time. There are lots of people on here who can help.
My specialties include ADHD, Anxiety, Grief, Anger and Addiction with a special focus on supporting men (Ages 15 and up) as they navigate school, relationships, work/career and overall life change.
Wow! There are a LOT of therapists, right? Unless the criteria were super narrow, this list is likely a little overwhelming—a lot of acronyms, a lot of jargon and friendly smiles; maybe fewer cardigans than expected. It’s a lot to consider. For many of us, scrolling through lists like this can feel like running in quicksand. And if you tend to be hard on yourself, it's all the more difficult. Whether you're navigating major life shifts, struggling but still trying to pin down why, or just at a loss and unsure of where/how to start, stick with it. It's OK to take your time. There are lots of people on here who can help.
(615) 392-4594 View (615) 392-4594
Photo of Doug Taylor, LPC-, MHSP,  NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Doug Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
I work with clients wanting to heal from all kinds of painful experiences and challenges in their lives. Often what brings someone into therapy, their current struggles, are symptoms of an underlying unresolved experience which has thrown life out of balance. Anxiety and depression, for example, frequently are a pattern of being stuck in a state of imbalance, following a significant loss, heartbreak or trauma. The goal of therapy is to restore the natural integrity and balance within clients, empowering them to lead creative and fulfilling lives.
I work with clients wanting to heal from all kinds of painful experiences and challenges in their lives. Often what brings someone into therapy, their current struggles, are symptoms of an underlying unresolved experience which has thrown life out of balance. Anxiety and depression, for example, frequently are a pattern of being stuck in a state of imbalance, following a significant loss, heartbreak or trauma. The goal of therapy is to restore the natural integrity and balance within clients, empowering them to lead creative and fulfilling lives.
(615) 560-7675 View (615) 560-7675
Photo of Jay Shannon Daughtry, MMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jay Shannon Daughtry
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37217
I have also experienced many of these unexpected losses and transitions in my own life and will honor your journey with confidentiality and privacy.
Have you experienced pain, loss, disappointment or unexpected change? I am here to help individuals, young adults, couples and families process these experiences in a safe and compassionate environment. Together we can unpack the pain and navigate the issues you are facing. You don't have to face it alone. We can identify realistic goals and relationship strategies as well as boundaries and strategies for growing forward. My desire is to facilitate communication and conflict resolution that is emotionally healing and beneficial. For couples, this process fosters interactions that increase and strengthen attachment and bonding.
I have also experienced many of these unexpected losses and transitions in my own life and will honor your journey with confidentiality and privacy.
Have you experienced pain, loss, disappointment or unexpected change? I am here to help individuals, young adults, couples and families process these experiences in a safe and compassionate environment. Together we can unpack the pain and navigate the issues you are facing. You don't have to face it alone. We can identify realistic goals and relationship strategies as well as boundaries and strategies for growing forward. My desire is to facilitate communication and conflict resolution that is emotionally healing and beneficial. For couples, this process fosters interactions that increase and strengthen attachment and bonding.
(615) 933-4992 View (615) 933-4992
Photo of Christina Rumbaugh, MS, LPC, MHSP, (temp), NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christina Rumbaugh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC, MHSP, (temp), NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37216
I believe everyone has the strength and potential needed to uncover their next steps, and it would be an honor to be your fellow traveler as you navigate the winding roads of grief, life stage transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, or whatever stands in your path.
Do you feel like no one wants you to talk about your grief? Like they want you to “get over it” or “look on the brightside”? Or maybe you need support but don’t feel like you can burden others with the request? When others don’t know how to talk about or handle our grief, it can be isolating and lonely. The combination of emotions we feel at these times can be downright confusing. I want you to know this feeling won’t last forever. Whether you’re new to grief or feel stuck in it, whether you have lost a loved one or are grieving the loss of an anticipated life, I want to help you on your journey back to you.
I believe everyone has the strength and potential needed to uncover their next steps, and it would be an honor to be your fellow traveler as you navigate the winding roads of grief, life stage transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, or whatever stands in your path.
Do you feel like no one wants you to talk about your grief? Like they want you to “get over it” or “look on the brightside”? Or maybe you need support but don’t feel like you can burden others with the request? When others don’t know how to talk about or handle our grief, it can be isolating and lonely. The combination of emotions we feel at these times can be downright confusing. I want you to know this feeling won’t last forever. Whether you’re new to grief or feel stuck in it, whether you have lost a loved one or are grieving the loss of an anticipated life, I want to help you on your journey back to you.
(615) 933-9828 View (615) 933-9828
Photo of Dawson Wells, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawson Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
Life assures us struggle, hardships, grief, and loss, but these things don't have to be the end of our story. They can be our call to action. I want to help you develop the tools you need to create a rich, full, and healthy life of your own design. One where you not only meet your goals but enjoy the process. A diagnosis, a major life change, an experience of abuse or trauma, an identity outside the social norms we find ourselves in; these are not our limitations, they're just aspects of our starting point.
Life assures us struggle, hardships, grief, and loss, but these things don't have to be the end of our story. They can be our call to action. I want to help you develop the tools you need to create a rich, full, and healthy life of your own design. One where you not only meet your goals but enjoy the process. A diagnosis, a major life change, an experience of abuse or trauma, an identity outside the social norms we find ourselves in; these are not our limitations, they're just aspects of our starting point.
(615) 649-8656 View (615) 649-8656
Photo of Karen Harper, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Harper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37216
If you are seeking relief from the effects of grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem, or if you are searching for a deeper meaning in your life, consider allowing me to assist you. I have 25 + years of experience, I frequently use EMDR which is very helpful with the above concerns, and I have a holistic approach meaning attention to the mind/body/spirit as well. We all want better and more meaningful lives, and I would be honored to help you achieve your goals! As Carl Jung said, "It is the privilege of a lifetime to become who you truly are."
If you are seeking relief from the effects of grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem, or if you are searching for a deeper meaning in your life, consider allowing me to assist you. I have 25 + years of experience, I frequently use EMDR which is very helpful with the above concerns, and I have a holistic approach meaning attention to the mind/body/spirit as well. We all want better and more meaningful lives, and I would be honored to help you achieve your goals! As Carl Jung said, "It is the privilege of a lifetime to become who you truly are."
(615) 502-0605 View (615) 502-0605
Photo of Mart Sesler, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mart Sesler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37216
Within each of us is an innate desire to be deeply known; to share our story; to be fully seen by another. It is in this vulnerable space where we experience acceptance; belonging; intimate connection. When our lived experiences hold unaddressed narratives of neglect, abuse, abandonment, rigid intolerance or profound loss, the natural longing for connection can become distorted or overridden. What emerges from our understandable aversion to risk and rejection is the imperative to channel all our energy towards managing or keeping hidden the unacceptable parts of ourselves and our story. If this resonates, you are not alone.
Within each of us is an innate desire to be deeply known; to share our story; to be fully seen by another. It is in this vulnerable space where we experience acceptance; belonging; intimate connection. When our lived experiences hold unaddressed narratives of neglect, abuse, abandonment, rigid intolerance or profound loss, the natural longing for connection can become distorted or overridden. What emerges from our understandable aversion to risk and rejection is the imperative to channel all our energy towards managing or keeping hidden the unacceptable parts of ourselves and our story. If this resonates, you are not alone.
(615) 933-9222 View (615) 933-9222
Photo of Harrison H Taylor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Harrison H Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
My goal is to create a safe environment for people to heal - emotionally, behaviorally and spiritually - so that they can integrate real change in their lives. I enjoy counseling families, couples and individuals of all ages - children, adolescents and adults. My main focus areas are family and marital conflict, rebuilding emotional and spiritual intimacy in relationships, divorce recovery, all kinds of addiction recovery, codependency in relationships,depression, anxiety, grief and loss, premarital counseling, emotional healing from family of origin, communication skills and parenting skills.
My goal is to create a safe environment for people to heal - emotionally, behaviorally and spiritually - so that they can integrate real change in their lives. I enjoy counseling families, couples and individuals of all ages - children, adolescents and adults. My main focus areas are family and marital conflict, rebuilding emotional and spiritual intimacy in relationships, divorce recovery, all kinds of addiction recovery, codependency in relationships,depression, anxiety, grief and loss, premarital counseling, emotional healing from family of origin, communication skills and parenting skills.
(615) 601-2586 View (615) 601-2586
1
...
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.