Grief Therapists in Wells River, VT

Photo of Aubrey Welch, LCMHC, Counselor
Aubrey Welch
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wells River, VT 05081
I think the connection between a therapist and client is the most important aspect of the counseling work. When a good relationship is established you can reach your goals and challenge yourself in an environment that feels safe. I enjoy working with children, teens, and families in a variety of ways. I also enjoy supporting parents with the many challenges of raising children in todays society. My theoretical approach is supported by Internal Family Systems theory where we will work with parts of self to help understand, and support a healthier version of ourselves.
I think the connection between a therapist and client is the most important aspect of the counseling work. When a good relationship is established you can reach your goals and challenge yourself in an environment that feels safe. I enjoy working with children, teens, and families in a variety of ways. I also enjoy supporting parents with the many challenges of raising children in todays society. My theoretical approach is supported by Internal Family Systems theory where we will work with parts of self to help understand, and support a healthier version of ourselves.
(802) 424-8349 View (802) 424-8349
Photo of Renee L Schulze, MSW, LICSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee L Schulze
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Wells River, VT 05081
Not accepting new clients
I have treated people with all forms of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and ADHD. I’m an EAP therapist and help employees with work stress and coping with difficult situations at work . I’m also trained in relief from narcissistic abuse and understanding “gaslighting” and “deflection” skills . I believe that people can feel better emotionally. I moved to VT in 2002 from CT where I worked for 14 years as a therapist in state facilities for the Department of Children and Families, the Department of Mental Health and the Department of Corrections.
I have treated people with all forms of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and ADHD. I’m an EAP therapist and help employees with work stress and coping with difficult situations at work . I’m also trained in relief from narcissistic abuse and understanding “gaslighting” and “deflection” skills . I believe that people can feel better emotionally. I moved to VT in 2002 from CT where I worked for 14 years as a therapist in state facilities for the Department of Children and Families, the Department of Mental Health and the Department of Corrections.
(802) 789-8467 View (802) 789-8467

Online Therapists

Photo of Lisa Lague-Greco, LCMHC, LADC, CCTP, Counselor
Lisa Lague-Greco
Counselor, LCMHC, LADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Jeffersonville, VT 05464  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor as well as a Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor, experienced working with adolescents, adults, and families with trauma, depression, anxiety, self harm, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, grief and loss, and end of life issues. My role is to help you in uncovering answers and to support you in your healing and development. I have great respect for your autonomy and your ability to be empowered to determine your own path, solutions, and direction in life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor as well as a Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor, experienced working with adolescents, adults, and families with trauma, depression, anxiety, self harm, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, grief and loss, and end of life issues. My role is to help you in uncovering answers and to support you in your healing and development. I have great respect for your autonomy and your ability to be empowered to determine your own path, solutions, and direction in life.
(802) 281-4504 View (802) 281-4504
Photo of Brooke W Lockwood-Cole - Brooke Lockwood-Cole, LCMHC, LCMHC, Counselor
Brooke Lockwood-Cole, LCMHC
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
), grief / bereavement work, hypnosis, solution focused therapy and psychodynamic.
I believe that each client is their own best expert, and has come to counseling because they have hit a log jam or bump in the road. Often times they have unresolved issues in their past that have been triggered by current issues that have the same theme. Also, some clients come to counseling due to current situations that are more short-term. My counseling style is very respectful, collaborative, going at a pace that meets the client's needs. Validation of the client's strengths, feelings and stressors is key to helping them transcend traumas and negative experience of the past and present.
), grief / bereavement work, hypnosis, solution focused therapy and psychodynamic.
I believe that each client is their own best expert, and has come to counseling because they have hit a log jam or bump in the road. Often times they have unresolved issues in their past that have been triggered by current issues that have the same theme. Also, some clients come to counseling due to current situations that are more short-term. My counseling style is very respectful, collaborative, going at a pace that meets the client's needs. Validation of the client's strengths, feelings and stressors is key to helping them transcend traumas and negative experience of the past and present.
(802) 435-0198 x511 View (802) 435-0198 x511
Photo of Beth Blair, LICSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Blair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williston, VT 05495  (Online Only)
My passion has always been to help and encourage others. Regardless of where you're at or what you're dealing with, there is always a way to overcome the obstacles life puts in your way. If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship distress, grief, or any other life impacting situation, I can help. I am trained in a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. I incorporate a holistic approach using mindfulness to strengthen the connection between mind, body, and spirit and to anchor us in the here and now.
My passion has always been to help and encourage others. Regardless of where you're at or what you're dealing with, there is always a way to overcome the obstacles life puts in your way. If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship distress, grief, or any other life impacting situation, I can help. I am trained in a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. I incorporate a holistic approach using mindfulness to strengthen the connection between mind, body, and spirit and to anchor us in the here and now.
View
Photo of Kathryn Shaffer, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Shaffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Albans, VT 05478  (Online Only)
I am a professional Social Worker specializing in death, dying, bereavement, and chronic and persistent physical debilities as well as mental health issues. I have extensive experience working with issues related to chronic and life limiting illness, chronic pain, aging, and dementia, and caring for the needs of the dying at end of life. Other experience includes working with adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, self-esteem, trauma, and coping skills. My therapeutic approaches are rooted in Narrative, Existential, and Psychodynamic therapy.
I am a professional Social Worker specializing in death, dying, bereavement, and chronic and persistent physical debilities as well as mental health issues. I have extensive experience working with issues related to chronic and life limiting illness, chronic pain, aging, and dementia, and caring for the needs of the dying at end of life. Other experience includes working with adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, self-esteem, trauma, and coping skills. My therapeutic approaches are rooted in Narrative, Existential, and Psychodynamic therapy.
(802) 200-2865 View (802) 200-2865
Photo of Eli Burke, MEd, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eli Burke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LICSW
Verified Verified
Calais, VT 05648  (Online Only)
I offer a warm and safe therapy environment, and specialize in childhood and adult issues related to trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, life-stage transitions, relationships and identity questions.
Consider we create belief systems around experience... past, present or future. At best, beliefs are flexible, forgiving, and optimistic, and we feel mostly in sync with humanity. Sometimes, perhaps due to old patterns of functional behavior, traumatic memories/events, or just familiarity, beliefs and attachments may interfere with growth and healing, and become the root of suffering. If this is true for you, together we'll uncover paths to more adaptive, compassionate self-narratives, while learning ways to hold experience to increase your life's meaning.
I offer a warm and safe therapy environment, and specialize in childhood and adult issues related to trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, life-stage transitions, relationships and identity questions.
Consider we create belief systems around experience... past, present or future. At best, beliefs are flexible, forgiving, and optimistic, and we feel mostly in sync with humanity. Sometimes, perhaps due to old patterns of functional behavior, traumatic memories/events, or just familiarity, beliefs and attachments may interfere with growth and healing, and become the root of suffering. If this is true for you, together we'll uncover paths to more adaptive, compassionate self-narratives, while learning ways to hold experience to increase your life's meaning.
(802) 549-4563 View (802) 549-4563
Photo of Allie Andrus McCann, MA, MFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allie Andrus McCann
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
East Montpelier, VT 05651  (Online Only)
I support individuals, couples and families with diverse needs, and specialize in work with children, adolescents, parents, and families. I see my work with clients as a co-creative process, drawing on my clients' unique character, strength, and values, as well as a variety of therapeutic techniques and tools. I have a holistic view of health and well-being, and take into account the mind, body, and spirit. I offer support for a variety of issues, especially anxiety and mood issues, grief, loss, trauma, and parenting issues. I am an Art Therapist as well as a Marriage and Family Therapist.
I support individuals, couples and families with diverse needs, and specialize in work with children, adolescents, parents, and families. I see my work with clients as a co-creative process, drawing on my clients' unique character, strength, and values, as well as a variety of therapeutic techniques and tools. I have a holistic view of health and well-being, and take into account the mind, body, and spirit. I offer support for a variety of issues, especially anxiety and mood issues, grief, loss, trauma, and parenting issues. I am an Art Therapist as well as a Marriage and Family Therapist.
(650) 646-9051 View (650) 646-9051
Photo of Jade Martin-Willis, LCMHC, LMHC, R-DMT, Counselor
Jade Martin-Willis
Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brattleboro, VT 05301  (Online Only)
I can help with but am not limited to helping people with grief, anxiety, depression, major life transitions, relationship issues, adjustment disorders, trauma related disorders and disordered eating patterns.
I am a licensed clinician in New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts, and I am a Registered Dance/Movement Therapist. I have a person-centered and holistic approach. I enjoy blending traditional talk therapy, expressive arts, and movement therapy in my counseling sessions. Typically I begin therapy with traditional talk therapy and then at that point I am open to using any particular style depending on your preferred way of processing. Typically my clients are people who feel overwhelmed, have recent loss, need help improving self-esteem, need help improving relationships, and want realistic coping skills in their life.
I can help with but am not limited to helping people with grief, anxiety, depression, major life transitions, relationship issues, adjustment disorders, trauma related disorders and disordered eating patterns.
I am a licensed clinician in New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts, and I am a Registered Dance/Movement Therapist. I have a person-centered and holistic approach. I enjoy blending traditional talk therapy, expressive arts, and movement therapy in my counseling sessions. Typically I begin therapy with traditional talk therapy and then at that point I am open to using any particular style depending on your preferred way of processing. Typically my clients are people who feel overwhelmed, have recent loss, need help improving self-esteem, need help improving relationships, and want realistic coping skills in their life.
(603) 903-1414 View (603) 903-1414
Photo of Joy King, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Joy King
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lyndonville, VT 05851  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with your mental health, experiencing loss, exploring your belief system, or looking to make changes please reach out.
Seeking therapy can be a difficult step to take and it is important to work with someone who feels like a good fit for you. Every therapist approaches the work differently. I approached therapy as a collaborative process by which I provide a safe space for clients to discuss the difficult things in life without judgment. I do not view myself as "the expert" but support clients in finding their own solutions. I will ask questions, explore patterns, teach skills, and challenge perspectives, but the goals you set and the path you take to achieving them are up to you.
If you are struggling with your mental health, experiencing loss, exploring your belief system, or looking to make changes please reach out.
Seeking therapy can be a difficult step to take and it is important to work with someone who feels like a good fit for you. Every therapist approaches the work differently. I approached therapy as a collaborative process by which I provide a safe space for clients to discuss the difficult things in life without judgment. I do not view myself as "the expert" but support clients in finding their own solutions. I will ask questions, explore patterns, teach skills, and challenge perspectives, but the goals you set and the path you take to achieving them are up to you.
(802) 471-2793 View (802) 471-2793
Photo of Xander Lodge - Xander Lodge, MA, PLC, MA, Psychologist
Xander Lodge, MA, PLC
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Williston, VT 05495
Waitlist for new clients
I offer support for loneliness, isolation, grief, and other related emotional consequences of the pandemic.
My work as a therapist is to empower and motivate people to access inner resources to lead fulfilling lives, explore emotional experience and its personal meaning, find wellness and harmony in relationships, and grow and change in alignment with their ideals. I believe that the therapeutic relationship opens the door to honest and fruitful self-exploration. Engagement in this relationship mirrors patterns of social interaction in a person's life, illuminating emotional experience and relationship patterns. This approach produces long-term improvements for people suffering from a variety of personal and interpersonal conflicts.
I offer support for loneliness, isolation, grief, and other related emotional consequences of the pandemic.
My work as a therapist is to empower and motivate people to access inner resources to lead fulfilling lives, explore emotional experience and its personal meaning, find wellness and harmony in relationships, and grow and change in alignment with their ideals. I believe that the therapeutic relationship opens the door to honest and fruitful self-exploration. Engagement in this relationship mirrors patterns of social interaction in a person's life, illuminating emotional experience and relationship patterns. This approach produces long-term improvements for people suffering from a variety of personal and interpersonal conflicts.
(802) 444-8509 View (802) 444-8509
Photo of Steve Waye, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Steve Waye
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Johnsbury, VT 05819
In person in St. Johnsbury only. Adult individuals AND couples with Blue Cross or MVP. Medicare, VT Medicaid & Cigna - Individuals ONLY. You or a loved one might have a serious or terminal illness, and need support and a place to share your fears and get support. You might need grief counseling because life is more disrupted than you thought it would be. You could want help with coming out or living trans or gay, or you just want to talk about anything else with someone who gets you. You feel like you're slipping with with anxiety, depression or bipolar and need to have a sense of gaining ground and optimism again.
In person in St. Johnsbury only. Adult individuals AND couples with Blue Cross or MVP. Medicare, VT Medicaid & Cigna - Individuals ONLY. You or a loved one might have a serious or terminal illness, and need support and a place to share your fears and get support. You might need grief counseling because life is more disrupted than you thought it would be. You could want help with coming out or living trans or gay, or you just want to talk about anything else with someone who gets you. You feel like you're slipping with with anxiety, depression or bipolar and need to have a sense of gaining ground and optimism again.
(802) 278-6568 View (802) 278-6568
Photo of Wendy Lee Stous - Wendy Stous M.S. LLC, MA, BA, Assoc
Wendy Stous M.S. LLC
Unlicensed Psychotherapist, MA, BA, Assoc
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Albans, VT 05478
Covid-19 support and protocol ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: WEEKEND, EVENING, DAY & ONLINE APPOINTMENTS. Monday, Wednesday,Thursday, Friday and Sundays. Hours 10am to 5p If you have challenges in your life that you need help resolving, contact me for a free phone consultation. You will discover that when I work with you, you are not just a client, you are an individual. Together, we would develop a plan to improve your life in a manner that is right for you. My specializations include grief & loss, anxiety, effective communication for couples and more. If you are ready to make meaningful changes in your life, contact me. I am here to help.
Covid-19 support and protocol ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: WEEKEND, EVENING, DAY & ONLINE APPOINTMENTS. Monday, Wednesday,Thursday, Friday and Sundays. Hours 10am to 5p If you have challenges in your life that you need help resolving, contact me for a free phone consultation. You will discover that when I work with you, you are not just a client, you are an individual. Together, we would develop a plan to improve your life in a manner that is right for you. My specializations include grief & loss, anxiety, effective communication for couples and more. If you are ready to make meaningful changes in your life, contact me. I am here to help.
(802) 520-2664 View (802) 520-2664
Photo of Heather Leonard, MA, CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Heather Leonard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Albans, VT 05478
I specialize in grief counseling, trauma work, and developmental diagnoses.
Loss and trauma come in all shapes and sizes. The death of a loved one, the loss of relationships, traumatic events, and various life changes (even ones that seem to be typical) can lead to feelings of intense sadness, confusion, anger, and anxiety. They can impact our day-to-day functioning, our relationships with others, our jobs, our sleep, and our overall wellbeing. Too often, problems we could manage or avoid in the past become barriers to living quality lives, and we're left feeling hopeless and alone.
I specialize in grief counseling, trauma work, and developmental diagnoses.
Loss and trauma come in all shapes and sizes. The death of a loved one, the loss of relationships, traumatic events, and various life changes (even ones that seem to be typical) can lead to feelings of intense sadness, confusion, anger, and anxiety. They can impact our day-to-day functioning, our relationships with others, our jobs, our sleep, and our overall wellbeing. Too often, problems we could manage or avoid in the past become barriers to living quality lives, and we're left feeling hopeless and alone.
(802) 454-3526 View (802) 454-3526
Photo of Darlene Furey, MSS, MLSP, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darlene Furey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, MLSP, LICSW
Verified Verified
Marshfield, VT 05658  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker. My online practice is with adults, couples and families of all kinds, including lgbtqia and folx who practice polyamory or ENM. I have a great deal experience with individuals, couples and families who are undergoing a transition: marriage, coming out as an lgbtq person, birth, divorce or separation, chronic illness or disability or loss. Using a client centered, empowerment approach, I utilize traditional "talk therapy" I emphasize the relational aspect of therapy, providing a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere for clients to explore their concerns as they move towards healing and growth.
I am a licensed clinical social worker. My online practice is with adults, couples and families of all kinds, including lgbtqia and folx who practice polyamory or ENM. I have a great deal experience with individuals, couples and families who are undergoing a transition: marriage, coming out as an lgbtq person, birth, divorce or separation, chronic illness or disability or loss. Using a client centered, empowerment approach, I utilize traditional "talk therapy" I emphasize the relational aspect of therapy, providing a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere for clients to explore their concerns as they move towards healing and growth.
(802) 455-4660 View (802) 455-4660
Photo of Kimberly Hannah Caterino - Kimberly Hannah LLC, MS,  MEd, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kimberly Hannah LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MEd, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Most conditions that I treat- anxiety, depression, grief, & painful attachment patterns-are logical responses to external situations.
I welcome people of all ages, races, faiths, abilities, identities, ethnicities, and orientations. I'm dedicated to holding emotional safety. I work with clients to help them achieve connection, confidence, and a calm sense of safety. Painful emotions can be buried by responses to life experiences, long or short term, from long ago or yesterday. I aim to help set clients free from their extreme thoughts and emotions by building a new connection with their authentic self.
Most conditions that I treat- anxiety, depression, grief, & painful attachment patterns-are logical responses to external situations.
I welcome people of all ages, races, faiths, abilities, identities, ethnicities, and orientations. I'm dedicated to holding emotional safety. I work with clients to help them achieve connection, confidence, and a calm sense of safety. Painful emotions can be buried by responses to life experiences, long or short term, from long ago or yesterday. I aim to help set clients free from their extreme thoughts and emotions by building a new connection with their authentic self.
(802) 210-1638 View (802) 210-1638
Photo of Sandra Nigolian, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Nigolian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05408
I have experience with acute mental health crisis, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, adoption, ADHD, substance misuse, and a variety of other life situations.
Life presents challenges sometimes. Learning how to access our resiliency, explore negative thought patterns, and strengthen new positive beliefs assists us in creating and maintaining a thriving daily life. I recognize that each person is diverse, having a unique family, social, and cultural history, and that healing and growth can be dependent on numerous factors. I use therapy methods that help bridge communication with children, youth and adults. I hold also hold BA in studio art that contributes to the creativity element of my work with individuals.
I have experience with acute mental health crisis, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, adoption, ADHD, substance misuse, and a variety of other life situations.
Life presents challenges sometimes. Learning how to access our resiliency, explore negative thought patterns, and strengthen new positive beliefs assists us in creating and maintaining a thriving daily life. I recognize that each person is diverse, having a unique family, social, and cultural history, and that healing and growth can be dependent on numerous factors. I use therapy methods that help bridge communication with children, youth and adults. I hold also hold BA in studio art that contributes to the creativity element of my work with individuals.
(802) 255-9991 View (802) 255-9991
Photo of Michelle Minogue, MBA, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Minogue
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05405  (Online Only)
Often people feel a loss of connection, have communication difficulties, or find their relationship is in crisis, without having appropriate skills to manage these obstacles.
Do you feel discouraged, anxious, or just unable to feel better? Do you ever get stuck in your thoughts or worry that you aren't good enough? Experiencing conflict in your relationship? Struggling with adoption issues? Have a family member with special needs? Life presents us with many challenges that can be overwhelming. My priority as a therapist is to provide you with a caring, compassionate, and non-judgmental environment where your strengths, unrecognized needs, and goals can be realized. I work with clients on creating meaningful connections, improving self-esteem and confidence, self-care, and achieving overall well-being.
Often people feel a loss of connection, have communication difficulties, or find their relationship is in crisis, without having appropriate skills to manage these obstacles.
Do you feel discouraged, anxious, or just unable to feel better? Do you ever get stuck in your thoughts or worry that you aren't good enough? Experiencing conflict in your relationship? Struggling with adoption issues? Have a family member with special needs? Life presents us with many challenges that can be overwhelming. My priority as a therapist is to provide you with a caring, compassionate, and non-judgmental environment where your strengths, unrecognized needs, and goals can be realized. I work with clients on creating meaningful connections, improving self-esteem and confidence, self-care, and achieving overall well-being.
(203) 220-6147 View (203) 220-6147
Photo of Cathy W Rousse - Life Works Counseling LLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Life Works Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Johnsbury, VT 05819
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years experience helping folks navigate through life's unexpected challenges whether that be loss of a job, a marriage, a loved one, one's health or one's dream.
Welcome to Life Works Counseling! Are you having a difficult time coping, struggling at work, at home, with relationships or just feeling like you can't get out of your own way? Life is hard and the world is changing, sometimes we just need to a safe place to process what's working and what's not in our lives. At Life Works Counseling we can help with that!
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years experience helping folks navigate through life's unexpected challenges whether that be loss of a job, a marriage, a loved one, one's health or one's dream.
Welcome to Life Works Counseling! Are you having a difficult time coping, struggling at work, at home, with relationships or just feeling like you can't get out of your own way? Life is hard and the world is changing, sometimes we just need to a safe place to process what's working and what's not in our lives. At Life Works Counseling we can help with that!
(802) 455-4558 View (802) 455-4558
Photo of Keri Kritchman, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Keri Kritchman
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Middlesex, VT 05602  (Online Only)
I am a Vermont-Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a private practice in Central VT. I have been in this field for over 25 years. I take a heart-centered approach to meeting others where they are. I believe in creating an authentic and therapeutic relationship with my clients. I specialize in treating individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-harm, and substance use.
I am a Vermont-Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a private practice in Central VT. I have been in this field for over 25 years. I take a heart-centered approach to meeting others where they are. I believe in creating an authentic and therapeutic relationship with my clients. I specialize in treating individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-harm, and substance use.
(802) 392-0942 View (802) 392-0942

See more therapy options for Wells River

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.