Photo of Jenny Pfeiffer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Jenny Pfeiffer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Waitlist for new clients
I work with those struggling with childhood trauma, PTSD, complex grief, depression, relationship issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Life Coach. My approach to therapy is to help clients identify, understand, and ultimately change the areas in their lives that have contributed to emotional and relationship pain. I deeply believe that to have the breakthrough we need in current relationships we must understand our history and how it profoundly colors and impacts us as adults. Once we learn to own our history, it no longer owns us.
I work with those struggling with childhood trauma, PTSD, complex grief, depression, relationship issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Life Coach. My approach to therapy is to help clients identify, understand, and ultimately change the areas in their lives that have contributed to emotional and relationship pain. I deeply believe that to have the breakthrough we need in current relationships we must understand our history and how it profoundly colors and impacts us as adults. Once we learn to own our history, it no longer owns us.
(757) 269-9833 View (757) 269-9833
Photo of Latrese U Stubbs, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia Beach, VA
Latrese U Stubbs
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, QMHP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Every story has a bad guy, don’t be your own! Let's work together to overcome any obstacle that you may be battling. Stress and anxiety can be hard to navigate, but we can work together in a safe and welcoming environment to discover solutions to your challenges. Seeking therapy takes a lot of strength and it is something to be proud of. As a therapist, I will partner with you to challenge your negative cognitions and make strides towards self-actualization. Regardless if you are suffering from trauma, grief, life's stressors, relationship conflict, depression, or anxiety,
Every story has a bad guy, don’t be your own! Let's work together to overcome any obstacle that you may be battling. Stress and anxiety can be hard to navigate, but we can work together in a safe and welcoming environment to discover solutions to your challenges. Seeking therapy takes a lot of strength and it is something to be proud of. As a therapist, I will partner with you to challenge your negative cognitions and make strides towards self-actualization. Regardless if you are suffering from trauma, grief, life's stressors, relationship conflict, depression, or anxiety,
(757) 654-5818 View (757) 654-5818
Photo of Karen L. Mattox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Karen L. Mattox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23464
Experiencing a loss in your life? It could be the death of a friend, loved one, or pet, divorce, loss of a job, or any other kind of loss. I can help you. I have extensive experience dealing with grief and loss. Call or email for an appointment and let's see how working together, we can help you heal. I can help you come to terms with your losses. Be sure to ask for Karen when you call.
Experiencing a loss in your life? It could be the death of a friend, loved one, or pet, divorce, loss of a job, or any other kind of loss. I can help you. I have extensive experience dealing with grief and loss. Call or email for an appointment and let's see how working together, we can help you heal. I can help you come to terms with your losses. Be sure to ask for Karen when you call.
(757) 699-5972 View (757) 699-5972
Photo of Adam L Hoxter, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia Beach, VA
Adam L Hoxter
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
There are so many in today’s world struggling, to be heard, to find hope. In my lifetime I have experienced, traumas, loses and grief. Understanding the significance of events on overall wellness, I want nothing more than to give others the opportunity to find hope, to find a way out of whatever hole they might be in, To strengthen their resiliencies to overcome whatever barrier might be holding them back. People of all ages, cultures, and ways of thinking all have struggles and I offer a safe environment to be heard, and to finally obtain freedom from whatever ails you, be it addiction, trauma, or new adjustments in life.
There are so many in today’s world struggling, to be heard, to find hope. In my lifetime I have experienced, traumas, loses and grief. Understanding the significance of events on overall wellness, I want nothing more than to give others the opportunity to find hope, to find a way out of whatever hole they might be in, To strengthen their resiliencies to overcome whatever barrier might be holding them back. People of all ages, cultures, and ways of thinking all have struggles and I offer a safe environment to be heard, and to finally obtain freedom from whatever ails you, be it addiction, trauma, or new adjustments in life.
(757) 859-8351 View (757) 859-8351
Photo of Micheline A. Meyers, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in Virginia Beach, VA
Micheline A. Meyers
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23451  (Online Only)
I am an MSW, Pre-Licensed LCSW in Virginia. I am accepting new clients at this time. The sessions will be performed via Telehealth platforms. During the free consultation, we will discuss your plan of care ensuring we are a good therapy fit. The interventions you will learn to implement will assist you in addressing symptom management, aligned with your therapy goals. I have five-plus years of experience in treating various populations dealing with grief, depression, anxiety, abonnement issues, as well as other disorders. I manage you as a whole while teaching you the skills you need to achieve a successful therapeutic outcome.
I am an MSW, Pre-Licensed LCSW in Virginia. I am accepting new clients at this time. The sessions will be performed via Telehealth platforms. During the free consultation, we will discuss your plan of care ensuring we are a good therapy fit. The interventions you will learn to implement will assist you in addressing symptom management, aligned with your therapy goals. I have five-plus years of experience in treating various populations dealing with grief, depression, anxiety, abonnement issues, as well as other disorders. I manage you as a whole while teaching you the skills you need to achieve a successful therapeutic outcome.
(757) 453-1718 View (757) 453-1718
Photo of Lydia Steele, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Lydia Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
In seasons of crisis, loss, and struggle, counseling can be a space to reflect on the past and recover for the journey ahead. My goal as a clinician is to partner with individuals and families as they heal from past hurts, manage current stressors, and refine their strengths on their path to restoring hope and finding healing.
In seasons of crisis, loss, and struggle, counseling can be a space to reflect on the past and recover for the journey ahead. My goal as a clinician is to partner with individuals and families as they heal from past hurts, manage current stressors, and refine their strengths on their path to restoring hope and finding healing.
(757) 926-0195 View (757) 926-0195
Photo of Lauren Acarino, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Lauren Acarino
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23451  (Online Only)
I have experience in complex trauma/ PTSD, treatment resistant depression, grief / bereavement, anxiety, and resiliency and race based stress/trauma.
While discussing mental health has become somewhat more common, it might not be a topic that you feel comfortable bringing up with close friends or family. If you have felt that you were alone as you experience symptoms like a lack of concentration, uncontrollable negative thoughts, or feeling like you are in 'autopilot' I would be honored to guide your recovery process. I believe that anxiety and depression are shared experiences that we all encounter during periods of heightened stressors in our lives, and that the goal of therapy is to help us identify what our thoughts and choices that do not align with our goals.
I have experience in complex trauma/ PTSD, treatment resistant depression, grief / bereavement, anxiety, and resiliency and race based stress/trauma.
While discussing mental health has become somewhat more common, it might not be a topic that you feel comfortable bringing up with close friends or family. If you have felt that you were alone as you experience symptoms like a lack of concentration, uncontrollable negative thoughts, or feeling like you are in 'autopilot' I would be honored to guide your recovery process. I believe that anxiety and depression are shared experiences that we all encounter during periods of heightened stressors in our lives, and that the goal of therapy is to help us identify what our thoughts and choices that do not align with our goals.
(757) 996-5862 View (757) 996-5862
Photo of Danny Holland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Danny Holland
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LCMHC, BC-TMH, NCC,ACS
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Areas of focus have included anxiety disorders, ADHD, depression, marital issues, panic disorders, sexual problems, military issues, mood issues, grief, loss, PTSD, OCD, LGBT issues, life transitions, oppositional defiance, Autism spectrum issues, child behavior issues, foster child issues, parenting issues, as well as spiritual issues.
I am so glad you have taken the time to seek out a therapist to connect with. Your relationship with your therapist is the most important factor. I have worked with individuals and couples for 32 years and would absolutely love the honor of connecting with you. I have worked with couples struggling with infidelity, blending families, and many other issues. Please call me if you'd like to connect and see if we would be a good match to help you move ahead into the next chapters of your life! I am also to meet with you through telehealth (video) or in person.
Areas of focus have included anxiety disorders, ADHD, depression, marital issues, panic disorders, sexual problems, military issues, mood issues, grief, loss, PTSD, OCD, LGBT issues, life transitions, oppositional defiance, Autism spectrum issues, child behavior issues, foster child issues, parenting issues, as well as spiritual issues.
I am so glad you have taken the time to seek out a therapist to connect with. Your relationship with your therapist is the most important factor. I have worked with individuals and couples for 32 years and would absolutely love the honor of connecting with you. I have worked with couples struggling with infidelity, blending families, and many other issues. Please call me if you'd like to connect and see if we would be a good match to help you move ahead into the next chapters of your life! I am also to meet with you through telehealth (video) or in person.
(757) 517-2972 View (757) 517-2972
Photo of Carissa Newman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Carissa Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Helping Little Hearts Counseling was founded to provide services to children, adolescents and their families in the surrounding community. Today, more than ever, our youth need extra help as they are struggling emotionally, behaviorally and socially. My specialty is working with the pediatric population, specifically preschoolers, school age children, teens, young adults and their families who struggle with various emotional, behavioral and mood issues. These issues range from Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Grief, Trauma, behavioral concerns and adjustment issues.
Helping Little Hearts Counseling was founded to provide services to children, adolescents and their families in the surrounding community. Today, more than ever, our youth need extra help as they are struggling emotionally, behaviorally and socially. My specialty is working with the pediatric population, specifically preschoolers, school age children, teens, young adults and their families who struggle with various emotional, behavioral and mood issues. These issues range from Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Grief, Trauma, behavioral concerns and adjustment issues.
(757) 854-9563 View (757) 854-9563
Photo of Danielle Hamilton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia Beach, VA
Danielle Hamilton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
I work primarily with teens, young adults, and individuals associated with the military when they are experiencing major life changes, loss, anxiety and/or depression.
I enjoy diving deep with clients to think about how their past and present experiences are influencing them today AND coming up with solutions to help clients create the life they want now and in the future. Exploring values, embracing feelings, challenging our thought processes, and practicing mindfulness are all things we may do together in a typical session. It is my goal that every client leaves my office feeling accepted, understood, and confident that there life can move in the direction they want to go!
I work primarily with teens, young adults, and individuals associated with the military when they are experiencing major life changes, loss, anxiety and/or depression.
I enjoy diving deep with clients to think about how their past and present experiences are influencing them today AND coming up with solutions to help clients create the life they want now and in the future. Exploring values, embracing feelings, challenging our thought processes, and practicing mindfulness are all things we may do together in a typical session. It is my goal that every client leaves my office feeling accepted, understood, and confident that there life can move in the direction they want to go!
(757) 866-5185 View (757) 866-5185
Photo of Kelly Andrews, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Kelly Andrews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Waitlist for new clients
My modalities I use include but are not limited to; Art Therapy, Play Therapy, EMDR, IFS, PCIT and specialties; sexual and/or domestic violence, interpersonal violence, trauma work, posttraumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, anxiety.
Thank you for taking your time to read the information I have provided. One of the most important steps in counseling is finding a therapist you can connect with and trust. I offer free consultations so you can assess if I am the right fit for your healing process. For over 16 years I have been honored to work with children, adolescents and adults on their therapeutic journey’s. I am passionate about addressing and treating the client as a whole which includes the physical, emotional and spiritual self. I collaborate with each client and tailor sessions to meet their current needs.
My modalities I use include but are not limited to; Art Therapy, Play Therapy, EMDR, IFS, PCIT and specialties; sexual and/or domestic violence, interpersonal violence, trauma work, posttraumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, anxiety.
Thank you for taking your time to read the information I have provided. One of the most important steps in counseling is finding a therapist you can connect with and trust. I offer free consultations so you can assess if I am the right fit for your healing process. For over 16 years I have been honored to work with children, adolescents and adults on their therapeutic journey’s. I am passionate about addressing and treating the client as a whole which includes the physical, emotional and spiritual self. I collaborate with each client and tailor sessions to meet their current needs.
(757) 389-8834 View (757) 389-8834
Photo of Scott Debb, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Scott Debb
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23451  (Online Only)
I am an Adlerian counselor, helping people better understand the connections between their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, purpose, and motivations using a person-centered, positive, and cognitive-behavioral approach. I tend to focus on short-term symptoms but long-term mental health. I have worked with patients for just a few weeks at a time, as well as with some patients for several years. I tend to work mostly with people experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, which often shows up as frustration, anger, isolation, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and overall loss of pleasure in life.
I am an Adlerian counselor, helping people better understand the connections between their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, purpose, and motivations using a person-centered, positive, and cognitive-behavioral approach. I tend to focus on short-term symptoms but long-term mental health. I have worked with patients for just a few weeks at a time, as well as with some patients for several years. I tend to work mostly with people experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, which often shows up as frustration, anger, isolation, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and overall loss of pleasure in life.
(757) 330-4378 View (757) 330-4378
Photo of Allison Tardif, Art Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Allison Tardif, Art Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAAT, ATR-BC, LPC, CLAT
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
I specialize in people living with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, bereavement, veterans, those searching for fluidity with life transitions, to develop more intuitive coping skills, or folks seeking space to empower and define themselves.
www.allisontardif.com I am Licensed in Virginia, Texas, and Connecticut. As a licensed professional counselor and board certified art therapist I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to facilitate self awareness, growth, and change. Seeking help and engaging in therapy requires courage. Taking ownership and accountability over your life is the prerequisite to meaningful change.
I specialize in people living with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, bereavement, veterans, those searching for fluidity with life transitions, to develop more intuitive coping skills, or folks seeking space to empower and define themselves.
www.allisontardif.com I am Licensed in Virginia, Texas, and Connecticut. As a licensed professional counselor and board certified art therapist I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to facilitate self awareness, growth, and change. Seeking help and engaging in therapy requires courage. Taking ownership and accountability over your life is the prerequisite to meaningful change.
(757) 637-1598 View (757) 637-1598
Photo of Tamara W Childress, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Tamara W Childress
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Immediate openings for in person appts on Saturdays available. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in treating children and families in individual and/or family therapy sessions. I work with individuals and families who are experiencing issues related to ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and family conflict. I have experience working with adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma and domestic violence. I have had VA supervision training and am credentialed to do licensure supervision. Please call 804-641-5176 to inquire about availability and rates.
Immediate openings for in person appts on Saturdays available. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in treating children and families in individual and/or family therapy sessions. I work with individuals and families who are experiencing issues related to ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and family conflict. I have experience working with adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma and domestic violence. I have had VA supervision training and am credentialed to do licensure supervision. Please call 804-641-5176 to inquire about availability and rates.
(804) 554-3341 View (804) 554-3341
Photo of Sandcastle Kids Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Sandcastle Kids Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, TF-CBT, NCC, CCMHC, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
I have experience working with individuals with the following: anxiety disorders, anger management, mood related disorders, grief, psychosis, autism, Asperger's syndrome, and family conflict.
Does your child's behaviors feel overwhelming and seemingly senseless at times? Are you having a difficult time connecting with your child? Has your child been exposed to a traumatic event? If so, I am here to help. I have an unwavering passion for working with children and adolescents who are having a challenging time managing their psychological and emotional well being. I have received specialized training in assisting children in coping with the effects of traumatic experiences in his/her life; this includes extensive education in the method of Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT).
I have experience working with individuals with the following: anxiety disorders, anger management, mood related disorders, grief, psychosis, autism, Asperger's syndrome, and family conflict.
Does your child's behaviors feel overwhelming and seemingly senseless at times? Are you having a difficult time connecting with your child? Has your child been exposed to a traumatic event? If so, I am here to help. I have an unwavering passion for working with children and adolescents who are having a challenging time managing their psychological and emotional well being. I have received specialized training in assisting children in coping with the effects of traumatic experiences in his/her life; this includes extensive education in the method of Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT).
(757) 810-7555 View (757) 810-7555
Photo of Tea & Empathy Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Tea & Empathy Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
We specialize in grief & loss, PTSD, addictions, personality disorders, DID, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, anger and stress management.
There are times when we all need a little help, someone to listen, empathize with, and validate our feelings. We all have a desire to find meaning and purpose in our lives and at times, our path can be challenging and seem never ending. Still, we strive to continue on our journey, and having someone come alongside you on your journey through the art of healing can be the push or respite you need.
We specialize in grief & loss, PTSD, addictions, personality disorders, DID, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, anger and stress management.
There are times when we all need a little help, someone to listen, empathize with, and validate our feelings. We all have a desire to find meaning and purpose in our lives and at times, our path can be challenging and seem never ending. Still, we strive to continue on our journey, and having someone come alongside you on your journey through the art of healing can be the push or respite you need.
(757) 210-3090 View (757) 210-3090
Photo of Megan Leann Schalembier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia Beach, VA
Megan Leann Schalembier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
I am passionate about helping clients work through depression, anxiety, grief and loss, pre and post-adoption for children or caregivers, ADHD, anger management, and spiritual issues.
My practice is client-centered and universal. I believe in treating the entire person. I look at past experiences, trauma, current issues, and future hopes and goals. I specialize in treating children ages (5+), adolescents, young adults, and adults. Most of my experience is working with clients healing from trauma. I pull from a variety of therapeutic techniques to work with the individual. If one therapy is not working, let's try something else.
I am passionate about helping clients work through depression, anxiety, grief and loss, pre and post-adoption for children or caregivers, ADHD, anger management, and spiritual issues.
My practice is client-centered and universal. I believe in treating the entire person. I look at past experiences, trauma, current issues, and future hopes and goals. I specialize in treating children ages (5+), adolescents, young adults, and adults. Most of my experience is working with clients healing from trauma. I pull from a variety of therapeutic techniques to work with the individual. If one therapy is not working, let's try something else.
(970) 710-6439 View (970) 710-6439
Photo of Tenesha S. Nicholson, Resident in Counseling in Virginia Beach, VA
Tenesha S. Nicholson
Resident in Counseling, MA, LPC-R, CSAC-E
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
We all have faced guilt, love, loss, anger, or betrayal.
“I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story.” I took that step to share my experiences and I conquered my greatest fears. Being able to trust is a big step, but accomplishing fears and standing in success is a leap. How would you like to take that journey with me to rebuild, uplift, get over, move through, start over, and reach for your internal goals to be a better “YOU”? Take a chance to believe in yourself that things will get and be better. I'm open, reachable, optimistic, kindhearted and ready to help towards your journey of healing. Here’s where to start….
We all have faced guilt, love, loss, anger, or betrayal.
“I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story.” I took that step to share my experiences and I conquered my greatest fears. Being able to trust is a big step, but accomplishing fears and standing in success is a leap. How would you like to take that journey with me to rebuild, uplift, get over, move through, start over, and reach for your internal goals to be a better “YOU”? Take a chance to believe in yourself that things will get and be better. I'm open, reachable, optimistic, kindhearted and ready to help towards your journey of healing. Here’s where to start….
(757) 798-8678 View (757) 798-8678
Photo of Susan E Melnyk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Susan E Melnyk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
I am comfortable addressing grief and end of life issues.
I understand that everyone experiences life differently and strive to meet my clients where they are in their current life struggles. My goal is to help clients achieve life satisfaction in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. I use a genuine and honest approach in my work to help facilitate client wellness. I encourage my clients to focus on their strengths and develop internal confidence and self acceptance.
I am comfortable addressing grief and end of life issues.
I understand that everyone experiences life differently and strive to meet my clients where they are in their current life struggles. My goal is to help clients achieve life satisfaction in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. I use a genuine and honest approach in my work to help facilitate client wellness. I encourage my clients to focus on their strengths and develop internal confidence and self acceptance.
(757) 828-2779 View (757) 828-2779
Photo of Erica Foreman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Erica Foreman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Hello. Searching for someone to provide encouragement and support in tough seasons is not always easy. I’m grateful you stopped by my page, and I hope that I can assist you. I’ve been in the mental health field for seven years. I’m a licensed professional counselor and certified substance abuse counselor. I strive to help others better understand mental health and identify ways to enjoy life. I see individuals who present issues with trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, grief, and anger. I also work closely with adolescents who present with ADHD, autism, conduct disorder, behavioral problems, and mental health issues.
Hello. Searching for someone to provide encouragement and support in tough seasons is not always easy. I’m grateful you stopped by my page, and I hope that I can assist you. I’ve been in the mental health field for seven years. I’m a licensed professional counselor and certified substance abuse counselor. I strive to help others better understand mental health and identify ways to enjoy life. I see individuals who present issues with trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, grief, and anger. I also work closely with adolescents who present with ADHD, autism, conduct disorder, behavioral problems, and mental health issues.
(757) 780-1650 View (757) 780-1650

See more therapy options for Virginia Beach

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.