Photo of Nadia Dhillon, Counselor in Virginia
Nadia Dhillon
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23224  (Online Only)
Do you feel anxious or depressed? Are you having difficulty dealing with grief? Is this affecting your relationships and overall happiness? Anxiety and depression can display in many ways but are some of the most common issues faced by people today. Therapy can help break the cycle of stress and aid in developing the necessary tools for a happy life. Call now to schedule an appointment with Nadia!
Do you feel anxious or depressed? Are you having difficulty dealing with grief? Is this affecting your relationships and overall happiness? Anxiety and depression can display in many ways but are some of the most common issues faced by people today. Therapy can help break the cycle of stress and aid in developing the necessary tools for a happy life. Call now to schedule an appointment with Nadia!
(804) 294-4617 View (804) 294-4617
Photo of Bella Sementsova Sterling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Bella Sementsova Sterling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEP, MA
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
My areas of focus are developmental and complex trauma, relationship problems, grief, depression and anxiety.
The focus of my work with clients is re-tuning one's somatic, relational, behavioral and cognitive patterns to health. Adverse childhood and life experiences often create survival strategies that keep us isolated from others, disconnected from our own feelings, frustrated and hopeless. I combine Somatic Experiencing approach, trauma expertise, Depth and psychoanalytic perspectives to help clients connect to their authentic selves and embrace a journey toward healing.
My areas of focus are developmental and complex trauma, relationship problems, grief, depression and anxiety.
The focus of my work with clients is re-tuning one's somatic, relational, behavioral and cognitive patterns to health. Adverse childhood and life experiences often create survival strategies that keep us isolated from others, disconnected from our own feelings, frustrated and hopeless. I combine Somatic Experiencing approach, trauma expertise, Depth and psychoanalytic perspectives to help clients connect to their authentic selves and embrace a journey toward healing.
(571) 489-0750 View (571) 489-0750
Photo of Jenny Pfeiffer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Jenny Pfeiffer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
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 Paula J Hamm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Paula J Hamm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Winchester, VA 22602  (Online Only)
Running, running, running to where do I ask? Running away from painful feelings is often a compromised solution to painful feelings. Pain and Suffering is the portal to emotional maturity. No one is spared suffering but it is how we choose to make meaning out of loss that makes the difference between thriving or a life of bitterness and defeat. Intentional committment to understanding your unique narrative is the task I can help you with. Together we will identify the patterns of behavior, and intense emotional feelings that dysregulate your emotions. Please visit and contact me through my website; PaulaJHamm.com and send request
Running, running, running to where do I ask? Running away from painful feelings is often a compromised solution to painful feelings. Pain and Suffering is the portal to emotional maturity. No one is spared suffering but it is how we choose to make meaning out of loss that makes the difference between thriving or a life of bitterness and defeat. Intentional committment to understanding your unique narrative is the task I can help you with. Together we will identify the patterns of behavior, and intense emotional feelings that dysregulate your emotions. Please visit and contact me through my website; PaulaJHamm.com and send request
(703) 457-8940 View (703) 457-8940
Photo of Kimberly C Pulley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Kimberly C Pulley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
I also specialize in grief and loss issues, including anticipatory grief caregivers often experience while caring for their seriously ill loved one.
The path of life can be full of twists and turns and it's easy to become overwhelmed, especially in times of change and transition. Do you find yourself at a crossroads, not knowing where to turn? I believe there is hope, even in the most difficult of circumstances. I enjoy helping others regain their sense of hope by developing insight and tapping into their strengths and abilities. In doing so, healthier, more successful ways of coping with life's challenges can begin to emerge.
I also specialize in grief and loss issues, including anticipatory grief caregivers often experience while caring for their seriously ill loved one.
The path of life can be full of twists and turns and it's easy to become overwhelmed, especially in times of change and transition. Do you find yourself at a crossroads, not knowing where to turn? I believe there is hope, even in the most difficult of circumstances. I enjoy helping others regain their sense of hope by developing insight and tapping into their strengths and abilities. In doing so, healthier, more successful ways of coping with life's challenges can begin to emerge.
(804) 885-4365 View (804) 885-4365
Photo of April Stone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
April Stone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I have Five certifications: (1) Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level 1 and Level 2 2) Acute Stress, Grief, and Trauma (3) Post-traumatic Stress and Trauma with Military Application (4) Pairs Couple Enrichment 5) Grief and Loss.
Are you motivated to see change? Are you tired of the past ruling your life? Do want to stop barely making it? Relationships unfulfilling? Need a answer/diagnosis for what you experience? My clinical work integrates psychology, theology, and spirituality. I consider my counseling to be a ministry first. However, treatments will also include empirically based techniques and skill-building. I am a Level 1 and Level 2 Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I also work with Trauma Focused Couples Counseling, Grief Therapy, and Dysfunctional family issues. I serve both Georgia and Virginia via video/phone sessions only.
I have Five certifications: (1) Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level 1 and Level 2 2) Acute Stress, Grief, and Trauma (3) Post-traumatic Stress and Trauma with Military Application (4) Pairs Couple Enrichment 5) Grief and Loss.
Are you motivated to see change? Are you tired of the past ruling your life? Do want to stop barely making it? Relationships unfulfilling? Need a answer/diagnosis for what you experience? My clinical work integrates psychology, theology, and spirituality. I consider my counseling to be a ministry first. However, treatments will also include empirically based techniques and skill-building. I am a Level 1 and Level 2 Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I also work with Trauma Focused Couples Counseling, Grief Therapy, and Dysfunctional family issues. I serve both Georgia and Virginia via video/phone sessions only.
(757) 330-8271 View (757) 330-8271
Photo of Katie Pancione, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Katie Pancione
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CGP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170
Are you feeling confused and isolated due to a loss? It is hard to come to terms with the idea we are grieving. While many people can easily relate grief to the death of a person or pet, suffering, in reality, expands across so many areas that we encounter on a day-to-day basis. Maybe you are going through a breakup or struggling with fertility, or you just found out your favorite coworker is moving to a new company. Perhaps you finished that last sip of wine that you brought back from the trip of a lifetime. There are many reasons to grieve, and unfortunately, when we don't know how to process grief, it can make us feel trapped.
Are you feeling confused and isolated due to a loss? It is hard to come to terms with the idea we are grieving. While many people can easily relate grief to the death of a person or pet, suffering, in reality, expands across so many areas that we encounter on a day-to-day basis. Maybe you are going through a breakup or struggling with fertility, or you just found out your favorite coworker is moving to a new company. Perhaps you finished that last sip of wine that you brought back from the trip of a lifetime. There are many reasons to grieve, and unfortunately, when we don't know how to process grief, it can make us feel trapped.
(540) 274-0655 View (540) 274-0655
Photo of Althilia Moore Lpc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Althilia Moore Lpc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, PhD can, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
I am a Doctoral student, Licensed Psychotherapist, and Clinical Supervisor Providing Online Counseling services, EMDR Consultee, Grief Support, CBT/Family, Couples Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy just to name a few.
Are you searching to embrace all of you? Have you experienced a traumatic event or lost a loved one due to health disparity, mental illness, experiencing racial conflict, divorce, high stressors, incarcerated, loss of a pet, etc.? Well, if so, I am here to meet you where you are. Have you questioned yourself and your answer is why? Together let's explore your "How?"
I am a Doctoral student, Licensed Psychotherapist, and Clinical Supervisor Providing Online Counseling services, EMDR Consultee, Grief Support, CBT/Family, Couples Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy just to name a few.
Are you searching to embrace all of you? Have you experienced a traumatic event or lost a loved one due to health disparity, mental illness, experiencing racial conflict, divorce, high stressors, incarcerated, loss of a pet, etc.? Well, if so, I am here to meet you where you are. Have you questioned yourself and your answer is why? Together let's explore your "How?"
(860) 499-3665 View (860) 499-3665
Photo of Stephanie Dawn Cook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Stephanie Dawn Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Do you need help with depression or anxiety? Are you struggling to recover from grief or loss? Have you experienced trauma? I would like the chance to listen to your story and help you build resilience and confidence. Instead of over-focusing on what's difficult in your life, we will work on developing your strengths and building on your best qualities. By finding and enhancing your inner resources you can better manage stress, depression, and the challenges that life presents. You can develop the positive-thinking skills that will help you manage better. We will develop your own step by step action plan to make change happen.
Do you need help with depression or anxiety? Are you struggling to recover from grief or loss? Have you experienced trauma? I would like the chance to listen to your story and help you build resilience and confidence. Instead of over-focusing on what's difficult in your life, we will work on developing your strengths and building on your best qualities. By finding and enhancing your inner resources you can better manage stress, depression, and the challenges that life presents. You can develop the positive-thinking skills that will help you manage better. We will develop your own step by step action plan to make change happen.
(240) 534-1569 View (240) 534-1569
Photo of Kathleen E Hanagan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Kathleen E Hanagan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22206
This treatment uses ketamine as a catalyst for powerful psychotherapy, to relieve depression, anxiety, and to heal PTSD and complex grief,.
Each of us is here with a unique gift to be named, claimed and celebrated. That gift is often hidden due to trauma and heartache. My work helps you discover and release whatever prevents the full expression of your power and joy, which resets an inner compass to your highest destiny. Trama informed transformational psychotherapy reconnects you with the exquisite wisdom of your Soul, and helps you co-create the life you deeply desire. I work with individuals, as well as couples who want to create a fulfilling and passionate relationship.
This treatment uses ketamine as a catalyst for powerful psychotherapy, to relieve depression, anxiety, and to heal PTSD and complex grief,.
Each of us is here with a unique gift to be named, claimed and celebrated. That gift is often hidden due to trauma and heartache. My work helps you discover and release whatever prevents the full expression of your power and joy, which resets an inner compass to your highest destiny. Trama informed transformational psychotherapy reconnects you with the exquisite wisdom of your Soul, and helps you co-create the life you deeply desire. I work with individuals, as well as couples who want to create a fulfilling and passionate relationship.
(571) 253-7691 View (571) 253-7691
Photo of Emily Webb Olsen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Emily Webb Olsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ashland, VA 23005  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include: Increasing Self-Worth/Empowerment; Trauma; Attachment Wounds; Infertility; Generational Trauma; Grief and loss; Adverse life experiences and childhood trauma; Complex/Developmental PTSD; Anxiety and Depression; Adoption Related Themes; Relationships.
Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and deep level healing? I utilize somatic therapy and trauma therapy approaches that helps you recognize our deep connection between the body and mind, offering you a holistic path to emotional well-being. I am committed to creating a safe and empathetic space where you can explore your experiences, uncover your strengths, and build a foundation for lasting transformation. I enjoy working with other mental health professionals and teachers, and I offer sliding scale for those who are just starting their profession.
My specialties include: Increasing Self-Worth/Empowerment; Trauma; Attachment Wounds; Infertility; Generational Trauma; Grief and loss; Adverse life experiences and childhood trauma; Complex/Developmental PTSD; Anxiety and Depression; Adoption Related Themes; Relationships.
Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and deep level healing? I utilize somatic therapy and trauma therapy approaches that helps you recognize our deep connection between the body and mind, offering you a holistic path to emotional well-being. I am committed to creating a safe and empathetic space where you can explore your experiences, uncover your strengths, and build a foundation for lasting transformation. I enjoy working with other mental health professionals and teachers, and I offer sliding scale for those who are just starting their profession.
(540) 235-5664 View (540) 235-5664
Photo of AEDA Associates, LLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Virginia
AEDA Associates, LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CSAC, NCAC II
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20121
We approach each case with an innovative methodology, illuminating underlying issues of grief, abandonment, anger, abuse, lack of self-esteem, contributing factors to substance abuse disorder.
AEDA ASSOCIATES, LLC empowers substance abuse individuals to recover sobriety by providing addiction counseling, sober living housing referral services, spiritual, therapeutic and supportive services. Call For your FREE 1 Hour Session!
We approach each case with an innovative methodology, illuminating underlying issues of grief, abandonment, anger, abuse, lack of self-esteem, contributing factors to substance abuse disorder.
AEDA ASSOCIATES, LLC empowers substance abuse individuals to recover sobriety by providing addiction counseling, sober living housing referral services, spiritual, therapeutic and supportive services. Call For your FREE 1 Hour Session!
(703) 832-4807 View (703) 832-4807
Photo of Cliff Ayers, Psychologist in Virginia
Cliff Ayers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Great Falls, VA 22066
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over thirty years of experience helping individuals and couples to experience happier, more fulfilling lives. Clients describe me as both empathic and logical, and I am interactive in style compared to the more passive style of therapist. As an individual therapist I tailor my approach to your own strengths and style of learning, often combining elements of cognitive, humanistic, and insight and depth oriented approaches as indicated. Together we may address a broad range of issues including anxiety, depression, low self-worth, stress, grief, anger, and relationship or work problems.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over thirty years of experience helping individuals and couples to experience happier, more fulfilling lives. Clients describe me as both empathic and logical, and I am interactive in style compared to the more passive style of therapist. As an individual therapist I tailor my approach to your own strengths and style of learning, often combining elements of cognitive, humanistic, and insight and depth oriented approaches as indicated. Together we may address a broad range of issues including anxiety, depression, low self-worth, stress, grief, anger, and relationship or work problems.
(571) 458-1448 View (571) 458-1448
Photo of Dr. Michele Cole, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Dr. Michele Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
My practice specializes in helping children, adolescents, adults, couples and the family system collectively to work through and move forward past one's anxiety, depression, adjustment issues from separation/divorce or grief, social skill challenges, past trauma, addictions, obsessive compulsive issues, disruptive behaviors and attention issues.
My practice specializes in helping children, adolescents, adults, couples and the family system collectively to work through and move forward past one's anxiety, depression, adjustment issues from separation/divorce or grief, social skill challenges, past trauma, addictions, obsessive compulsive issues, disruptive behaviors and attention issues.
(571) 536-2527 View (571) 536-2527
Photo of Tenesha S. Nicholson, Resident in Counseling in Virginia
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 Laura Alm, Counselor in Virginia
Laura Alm
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Laura is experienced helping individuals with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, psychological/emotional abuse or abuse history, behavioral/substance addictions, self-worth issues, PTSD, trauma (including sexual trauma and military sexual trauma/MST), and spiritual concerns.
Laura Alm believes that each human person has inherent dignity and value because they are created by God out of love and made in His Image; the more they become their authentic, best selves, the more they are empowered, free, and glorify God. She believes that, through the power of Jesus Christ, who renews hearts and minds, change can happen, and all things are possible. Laura uses an integrative approach to counseling, and draws from person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, and narrative therapies, as well as dialectical behavior and mindfulness techniques. She strives to foster a warm, caring, and empathic therapeutic environment.
Laura is experienced helping individuals with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, psychological/emotional abuse or abuse history, behavioral/substance addictions, self-worth issues, PTSD, trauma (including sexual trauma and military sexual trauma/MST), and spiritual concerns.
Laura Alm believes that each human person has inherent dignity and value because they are created by God out of love and made in His Image; the more they become their authentic, best selves, the more they are empowered, free, and glorify God. She believes that, through the power of Jesus Christ, who renews hearts and minds, change can happen, and all things are possible. Laura uses an integrative approach to counseling, and draws from person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, and narrative therapies, as well as dialectical behavior and mindfulness techniques. She strives to foster a warm, caring, and empathic therapeutic environment.
(434) 448-2704 View (434) 448-2704
Photo of Danijela H. Nardelli, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Danijela H. Nardelli
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, C-PD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170
I am trained in EMDR therapy, grief and loss and other trauma informed approaches.
Facing the stressors of daily life activities can be daunting in the best of circumstances. Anxiety, depression, and past traumatic experiences can make those every day challenges seem overwhelming and insurmountable. My job as your counselor is to help you make sense of your presenting situation, support you, and walk with you through the process of healing the pain and discovering your strengths.
I am trained in EMDR therapy, grief and loss and other trauma informed approaches.
Facing the stressors of daily life activities can be daunting in the best of circumstances. Anxiety, depression, and past traumatic experiences can make those every day challenges seem overwhelming and insurmountable. My job as your counselor is to help you make sense of your presenting situation, support you, and walk with you through the process of healing the pain and discovering your strengths.
(703) 952-3483 View (703) 952-3483
Photo of Miriam N Turner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Miriam N Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
I am a Certified Perinatal Mental Health Clinician with specialties in fertility issues, pregnancy loss and post partum disorders.
I view therapy as a joint venture in healing and growth and an interactive process that provides possibilities for change and hope. Everyone's situation and experiences are unique. Together we will explore your presenting issues and concerns to meet your goals. In my work, I utilize cognitive behavioral, solution oriented, trauma focused and humanistic approaches. I also believe that our mind and body are closely integrated, and greater awareness and understanding of the mind-body connection and related practices like mindfulness, can help a person more effectively cope with stress, trauma, depression, etc.
I am a Certified Perinatal Mental Health Clinician with specialties in fertility issues, pregnancy loss and post partum disorders.
I view therapy as a joint venture in healing and growth and an interactive process that provides possibilities for change and hope. Everyone's situation and experiences are unique. Together we will explore your presenting issues and concerns to meet your goals. In my work, I utilize cognitive behavioral, solution oriented, trauma focused and humanistic approaches. I also believe that our mind and body are closely integrated, and greater awareness and understanding of the mind-body connection and related practices like mindfulness, can help a person more effectively cope with stress, trauma, depression, etc.
(571) 357-2977 View (571) 357-2977
Photo of Connect to Care Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Virginia
Connect to Care Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC-S, LPC-AS
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Are you tired of feeling stressed, not taking care of yourself, issues at work, bad relationships, kids all over the place, distant learning, grief, gender identity, class, and race issues? Well look no further, Connect to Care Counseling Services, LLC provides a safe place to listen and truly assist our clients with achieving their goals using psychotherapy. Now, this will not be a pity party but a revelation party to help you come out of your situation for a new YOU. In addition, we provide services in Louisiana, Virginia, Maryland, and District of Columbia. We are open with no Wait list.
Are you tired of feeling stressed, not taking care of yourself, issues at work, bad relationships, kids all over the place, distant learning, grief, gender identity, class, and race issues? Well look no further, Connect to Care Counseling Services, LLC provides a safe place to listen and truly assist our clients with achieving their goals using psychotherapy. Now, this will not be a pity party but a revelation party to help you come out of your situation for a new YOU. In addition, we provide services in Louisiana, Virginia, Maryland, and District of Columbia. We are open with no Wait list.
(571) 380-7811 x1 View (571) 380-7811 x1
Photo of Patricia Cisnero, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Patricia Cisnero
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
During difficult times, the word “unravel” resonates with most of us. As human beings, at some point, we are bound to experience life stressors, trauma events, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, parenting struggles etc. I am aware there is no single therapeutic approach, and a range of flexibility and modalities is key to guide and assist in finding resolution and balance. My great passion is bringing healing to the people who have been through traumatic/stressful experiences and struggling to anchor, reflect and or reset. I believe in meeting clients where they are and in creating a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
During difficult times, the word “unravel” resonates with most of us. As human beings, at some point, we are bound to experience life stressors, trauma events, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, parenting struggles etc. I am aware there is no single therapeutic approach, and a range of flexibility and modalities is key to guide and assist in finding resolution and balance. My great passion is bringing healing to the people who have been through traumatic/stressful experiences and struggling to anchor, reflect and or reset. I believe in meeting clients where they are and in creating a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
(540) 274-0244 View (540) 274-0244
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.