Grief Therapists in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA

Photo of Caitlin A Jesse, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Caitlin A Jesse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
I specialize in the areas of grief and loss, particularly in working with young widows and bereaved men, and caregivers of those who are ill. I hope you will find working with me to be a safe, compassionate space in which to explore your experience, the story of your loss, the impact of grief in your everyday life, and progress towards building a life around your grief. My clients come to me with many areas of grief; challenging relationship dynamics or divorce, loss of a job or hope, change in health, or other significant life transition. My practice also addresses other areas of mental health, including anxiety and depression.
I specialize in the areas of grief and loss, particularly in working with young widows and bereaved men, and caregivers of those who are ill. I hope you will find working with me to be a safe, compassionate space in which to explore your experience, the story of your loss, the impact of grief in your everyday life, and progress towards building a life around your grief. My clients come to me with many areas of grief; challenging relationship dynamics or divorce, loss of a job or hope, change in health, or other significant life transition. My practice also addresses other areas of mental health, including anxiety and depression.
(206) 825-6312 View (206) 825-6312
Photo of T. Williams Counseling Services , Counselor in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
T. Williams Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
I am a Christian Therapist who believes that every life has value and everyone deserves to find their "happy" place. I have over 8 years experience working with individuals from all walks of life. As a graduate of City University of Seattle, I specializing in adult and childhood trauma providing clients opportunities to reclaim their lives. I also assist clients who may be suffering from the following issues: cultural & life transitions such as relocation and new employment/geo-cultural adjustments, grief & loss, depression, anxiety, and stress management.
I am a Christian Therapist who believes that every life has value and everyone deserves to find their "happy" place. I have over 8 years experience working with individuals from all walks of life. As a graduate of City University of Seattle, I specializing in adult and childhood trauma providing clients opportunities to reclaim their lives. I also assist clients who may be suffering from the following issues: cultural & life transitions such as relocation and new employment/geo-cultural adjustments, grief & loss, depression, anxiety, and stress management.
(206) 899-0256 View (206) 899-0256
Photo of Columbia City MIndfulness and DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Columbia City MIndfulness and DBT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
I welcome people who are facing any number of challenges including life transitions such as divorce, job loss, illness, death of a loved one; all shifting the ground beneath us in dramatic ways. What worked no longer works. My trMy training as a Mindfulness Meditation Teacher complements training and practice in psychotherapy addressing a dysregulated emotion system resulting in various symptoms such as anxiety, panic, depression, and identity disturbance and sometimes even a desire to die or hurt oneself. There can be a painful sense of isolation and feeling unmoored. There is a way out; first understanding, then tools to heal.
I welcome people who are facing any number of challenges including life transitions such as divorce, job loss, illness, death of a loved one; all shifting the ground beneath us in dramatic ways. What worked no longer works. My trMy training as a Mindfulness Meditation Teacher complements training and practice in psychotherapy addressing a dysregulated emotion system resulting in various symptoms such as anxiety, panic, depression, and identity disturbance and sometimes even a desire to die or hurt oneself. There can be a painful sense of isolation and feeling unmoored. There is a way out; first understanding, then tools to heal.
(206) 752-6263 View (206) 752-6263
Photo of Christine Tsui, Counselor in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Christine Tsui
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98144
My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, loss and grief, trauma, relationship difficulties, work-related stress, family of origin issues and life transitions.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I am experienced in treating a variety of mental health disorders. I work with children, adolescents and adults. My goal is to partner with my clients to work through various mental health issues, and move beyond their pain and distress so that they may experience more health and well-being in their lives. I feel honored and privileged to be on healing journeys with my clients. Additionally I am fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese.
My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, loss and grief, trauma, relationship difficulties, work-related stress, family of origin issues and life transitions.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I am experienced in treating a variety of mental health disorders. I work with children, adolescents and adults. My goal is to partner with my clients to work through various mental health issues, and move beyond their pain and distress so that they may experience more health and well-being in their lives. I feel honored and privileged to be on healing journeys with my clients. Additionally I am fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese.
(206) 800-8723 View (206) 800-8723
Photo of Molly Coffin Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Molly Coffin Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118
I know the isolation and grief that can arise during and after pregnancy.
We can never be fully prepared for how life changes once we have children. Learning how to be a parent without losing other important relationships and parts of ourselves can be even more challenging if we’re dealing with a traumatic birth, unexpected medical diagnoses, or an increase in anxiety, overwhelm, or anger. I am a therapist who listens closely and with curiosity, who will support you in processing loss and rebuilding your sense of self and your relationships. With humor and compassion, I can guide you in strengthening your confidence and identity as a parent and a partner.
I know the isolation and grief that can arise during and after pregnancy.
We can never be fully prepared for how life changes once we have children. Learning how to be a parent without losing other important relationships and parts of ourselves can be even more challenging if we’re dealing with a traumatic birth, unexpected medical diagnoses, or an increase in anxiety, overwhelm, or anger. I am a therapist who listens closely and with curiosity, who will support you in processing loss and rebuilding your sense of self and your relationships. With humor and compassion, I can guide you in strengthening your confidence and identity as a parent and a partner.
(206) 589-1740 View (206) 589-1740
Photo of Calla Lily Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Calla Lily Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
With over 10 years in the healthcare field, I have experience supporting individuals struggling with grief/loss, chronic illnesses, anxiety, depression and trauma.
Calla Lily Counseling is an intentional space for compassionate therapy. We often get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, it can be difficult to stop and reflect on ourselves. Calla Lily Counseling is a dedicated space to pause and reflect. A non-judgemental space. An open space. An intentional space. YOUR space. It is a space for change, a space for healing, a space to find meaning. Now is the time to invest in your mental health.
With over 10 years in the healthcare field, I have experience supporting individuals struggling with grief/loss, chronic illnesses, anxiety, depression and trauma.
Calla Lily Counseling is an intentional space for compassionate therapy. We often get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, it can be difficult to stop and reflect on ourselves. Calla Lily Counseling is a dedicated space to pause and reflect. A non-judgemental space. An open space. An intentional space. YOUR space. It is a space for change, a space for healing, a space to find meaning. Now is the time to invest in your mental health.
(425) 272-6749 View (425) 272-6749
Photo of Nancy Montstream, Counselor in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Nancy Montstream
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am glad you are here and taking the first step to make change in your life. I practice from an integrative perspective to fit the needs of each client. Each person has a unique situation that requires me to listen to your story with compassion, curiosity, and openness. I work with clients across the age-span, though I have extensive experience with ages 15-30. Many of my clients enter therapy after a life crisis such as a struggling child or adolescent, a death or illness, a change in career, a break-up, the affect of an addiction, identity issues, or simply patterns of worry or regret.
Welcome! I am glad you are here and taking the first step to make change in your life. I practice from an integrative perspective to fit the needs of each client. Each person has a unique situation that requires me to listen to your story with compassion, curiosity, and openness. I work with clients across the age-span, though I have extensive experience with ages 15-30. Many of my clients enter therapy after a life crisis such as a struggling child or adolescent, a death or illness, a change in career, a break-up, the affect of an addiction, identity issues, or simply patterns of worry or regret.
(206) 385-1289 View (206) 385-1289
Photo of Ashley Glass, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Ashley Glass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
I have worked in a variety of settings with virtually all walks of life. My areas of specialization include chronic pain, life transitions, loss, sleep issues, caregivers, issues associated with aging, and disabilities.
I have worked in a variety of settings with virtually all walks of life. My areas of specialization include chronic pain, life transitions, loss, sleep issues, caregivers, issues associated with aging, and disabilities.
(206) 678-0324 View (206) 678-0324
Stefanie Talmadge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma, sexual abuse (all ages and genders, including adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse), gender identity, OCD, behavioral issues in children/teens, parent coaching and grief and loss.
I believe that every individual has the ability to make change, heal and grow. I will create a supportive environment where you will be heard, new skills can be learned and also practiced. My treatment methods are grounded in evidence-based models, while allowing for the flexibility to individualize to best meet your needs. I want to make therapy work for you and know that no approach is perfect for everyone. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), exposure, Mindfulness techniques and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Together we will decide what works for you.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma, sexual abuse (all ages and genders, including adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse), gender identity, OCD, behavioral issues in children/teens, parent coaching and grief and loss.
I believe that every individual has the ability to make change, heal and grow. I will create a supportive environment where you will be heard, new skills can be learned and also practiced. My treatment methods are grounded in evidence-based models, while allowing for the flexibility to individualize to best meet your needs. I want to make therapy work for you and know that no approach is perfect for everyone. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), exposure, Mindfulness techniques and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Together we will decide what works for you.
(206) 207-4676 View (206) 207-4676
Photo of Jennifer Schulz, Counselor in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Jennifer Schulz
Counselor, MA, LMHC, PhD
Verified Verified
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118
I work with individual adult clients and couples who are facing anxiety, depression, life transitions, loss, trauma, and challenges at work or in relationships. Since 2002, I have counseled adults, couples, and groups in community mental health and medical clinics, as well as in my private practice. I have also conducted in-depth research on trauma, hopelessness, empathy, and intimacy. Above all, I believe that my clients, not I, hold the key to their growth and that emotional pain and anxiety, when given respect and non-judgmental attention, can often provide some of the best opportunities for learning.
I work with individual adult clients and couples who are facing anxiety, depression, life transitions, loss, trauma, and challenges at work or in relationships. Since 2002, I have counseled adults, couples, and groups in community mental health and medical clinics, as well as in my private practice. I have also conducted in-depth research on trauma, hopelessness, empathy, and intimacy. Above all, I believe that my clients, not I, hold the key to their growth and that emotional pain and anxiety, when given respect and non-judgmental attention, can often provide some of the best opportunities for learning.
(206) 395-3354 View (206) 395-3354
Photo of Stories Of Hope - Tania Beaudet, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Stories Of Hope - Tania Beaudet
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118
Additionally helping humans through big life transitions whether that is childhood trauma, adolescence/young adult, grief work, aging, menopause, loss of parent, marriage, blending families, and end of life support.
Cultivating meaning in our life and connections with our loved ones serves as the cornerstones in discovering growth, purpose and happiness within our lives. As a trauma informed systemic relational therapist, I use narrative therapy, IFS, couples therapy, EMDR and mindfulness to assist clients working through life transitions, challenges, relationship/family/parenting issues, trauma, anxiety, depression and grief. I am dedicated to offering therapy that is inclusive and empathetic, as well as offering care to clients of systemically oppressed communities. I want to offer a safer environment for all. Accepting new clients
Additionally helping humans through big life transitions whether that is childhood trauma, adolescence/young adult, grief work, aging, menopause, loss of parent, marriage, blending families, and end of life support.
Cultivating meaning in our life and connections with our loved ones serves as the cornerstones in discovering growth, purpose and happiness within our lives. As a trauma informed systemic relational therapist, I use narrative therapy, IFS, couples therapy, EMDR and mindfulness to assist clients working through life transitions, challenges, relationship/family/parenting issues, trauma, anxiety, depression and grief. I am dedicated to offering therapy that is inclusive and empathetic, as well as offering care to clients of systemically oppressed communities. I want to offer a safer environment for all. Accepting new clients
(425) 374-4642 View (425) 374-4642
Photo of Jeanne M Reina, Counselor in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Jeanne M Reina
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118
I work with clients ages 18 and older from a variety of diverse backgrounds. I specialize in working with past trauma, emotional neglect, grief, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, and everyday stressors, secondary trauma (especially for caregivers). In addition if you find that you have become stuck and need a boost to get back to enjoying life again, I can assist you in overcoming these challenges and discovering your own untapped inner resilience, strength, and authenticity in a way that is deeply meaningful.
I work with clients ages 18 and older from a variety of diverse backgrounds. I specialize in working with past trauma, emotional neglect, grief, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, and everyday stressors, secondary trauma (especially for caregivers). In addition if you find that you have become stuck and need a boost to get back to enjoying life again, I can assist you in overcoming these challenges and discovering your own untapped inner resilience, strength, and authenticity in a way that is deeply meaningful.
(425) 903-3193 View (425) 903-3193
Photo of Talya Rozenberg, Counselor in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Talya Rozenberg
Counselor, MEd, LMHCA, CCC
Verified Verified
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
I offer support through life’s transitions, including adjusting to postpartum/parenthood, dealing with health challenges like a new cancer diagnosis, processing grief, or navigating infidelity or a break up.
It takes a lot of courage to begin therapy. That is why I use a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach. I hope to create a safe therapeutic space to help you feel supported while you take steps towards desired change so you can live a more meaningful and fulfilling life. I believe in the profound impact of relationships and connection on our lives. Yet, when things aren’t going well in this area it can be all-consuming. Specializing in working with both individuals and couples, I address issues like anxiety, perfectionism, and burnout, and work to enhance intimacy and satisfaction in relationships.
I offer support through life’s transitions, including adjusting to postpartum/parenthood, dealing with health challenges like a new cancer diagnosis, processing grief, or navigating infidelity or a break up.
It takes a lot of courage to begin therapy. That is why I use a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach. I hope to create a safe therapeutic space to help you feel supported while you take steps towards desired change so you can live a more meaningful and fulfilling life. I believe in the profound impact of relationships and connection on our lives. Yet, when things aren’t going well in this area it can be all-consuming. Specializing in working with both individuals and couples, I address issues like anxiety, perfectionism, and burnout, and work to enhance intimacy and satisfaction in relationships.
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Photo of Lizette Arroyo-Dillard, Pre-Licensed Professional in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Lizette Arroyo-Dillard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98144
I wish to serve people of color and other marginalized groups who have experienced chronic oppression and injustices. I would love to work with individuals, couples and families who are ready to step into their power and reclaim their voice. I wish to serve those who are in need of healing and need assistance processing grief, loss, frustration and exhaustion from life's trials and adversities. Being a person of color poses many challenges in this country and seeking help from professionals who look or talk nothing like you makes it far more difficult. I see you and I'm here for you.
I wish to serve people of color and other marginalized groups who have experienced chronic oppression and injustices. I would love to work with individuals, couples and families who are ready to step into their power and reclaim their voice. I wish to serve those who are in need of healing and need assistance processing grief, loss, frustration and exhaustion from life's trials and adversities. Being a person of color poses many challenges in this country and seeking help from professionals who look or talk nothing like you makes it far more difficult. I see you and I'm here for you.
(206) 483-0434 View (206) 483-0434
Photo of Ed Aronwald, Counselor in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Ed Aronwald
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118
I work with children and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief and loss, family changes, challenging peer relationships and the behaviors that can result from these issues. I have training and experience using Play Therapy and Sandplay, which employ children's natural way of communicating and learning, as well as other therapeutic modalities as appropriate to each individual. My approach is client centered and often non-directive, believing that when children experience emotional safety in a non-judgmental relationship, their inner wisdom naturally emerges to guide their learning, healing and growth.
I work with children and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief and loss, family changes, challenging peer relationships and the behaviors that can result from these issues. I have training and experience using Play Therapy and Sandplay, which employ children's natural way of communicating and learning, as well as other therapeutic modalities as appropriate to each individual. My approach is client centered and often non-directive, believing that when children experience emotional safety in a non-judgmental relationship, their inner wisdom naturally emerges to guide their learning, healing and growth.
(206) 565-1437 View (206) 565-1437
Photo of Helen R Estoque, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Helen R Estoque
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
Specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, childhood trauma recovery, grief work, and life transitions.
Feelings of loneliness, depression, and isolation are often a surprise when we are surrounded by people at work, home, and in social connections. In over 20 years of practice, I have helped adults and couples to identify and resolve the issues that are obstacles to creating more fulfilling lives and relationships. I bring the qualities of warmth and connection, honesty, sensitivity, creativity, flexibility, humor, clarity and openmindedness, and interactive exchange to sessions. Individual, couples, and group therapy are included in my practice.
Specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, childhood trauma recovery, grief work, and life transitions.
Feelings of loneliness, depression, and isolation are often a surprise when we are surrounded by people at work, home, and in social connections. In over 20 years of practice, I have helped adults and couples to identify and resolve the issues that are obstacles to creating more fulfilling lives and relationships. I bring the qualities of warmth and connection, honesty, sensitivity, creativity, flexibility, humor, clarity and openmindedness, and interactive exchange to sessions. Individual, couples, and group therapy are included in my practice.
(206) 693-4315 View (206) 693-4315
Photo of Susannah Brister, Counselor in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Susannah Brister
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
Every feeling in your body and mind has a story to tell about both your present and your past. Healing begins when we listen with compassion to those stories. I am committed to being a kind and honest partner with you in considering the way your experiences have shaped the way you show up in day-to-day life. Maybe you struggle to maintain boundaries, or to feel truly connected in relationships. Maybe you need to process recent changes in your life, or are seeking to drop deeper into your body. Maybe you are navigating loss or loneliness, or even wondering who you truly are.
Every feeling in your body and mind has a story to tell about both your present and your past. Healing begins when we listen with compassion to those stories. I am committed to being a kind and honest partner with you in considering the way your experiences have shaped the way you show up in day-to-day life. Maybe you struggle to maintain boundaries, or to feel truly connected in relationships. Maybe you need to process recent changes in your life, or are seeking to drop deeper into your body. Maybe you are navigating loss or loneliness, or even wondering who you truly are.
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Photo of Taen Marie Scherer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Taen Marie Scherer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118
I work with you to uncover underlying self destructive belief/ behavior patterns, then move into more life-enhancing patterns. My approach is culturally aware, founded in understanding the relationships systems within which you live and work, and guided by my intuitive knowledge of change and growth acquired during over 20 years of experience. My advanced training in EMDR eases your movement through grief, loss or trauma. Accountability and "keeping an eye on the goal" is an important part of our work together. I also specialize in LGBTQ concerns as well as the specific pain of the adult adoptee.
I work with you to uncover underlying self destructive belief/ behavior patterns, then move into more life-enhancing patterns. My approach is culturally aware, founded in understanding the relationships systems within which you live and work, and guided by my intuitive knowledge of change and growth acquired during over 20 years of experience. My advanced training in EMDR eases your movement through grief, loss or trauma. Accountability and "keeping an eye on the goal" is an important part of our work together. I also specialize in LGBTQ concerns as well as the specific pain of the adult adoptee.
(206) 518-9480 View (206) 518-9480
Photo of Anna Rhodes, Counselor in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Anna Rhodes
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118
I offer a Three Day Intensive: a ten hour therapy program for treating depression, stress, anxiety, phobia, loss of confidence, PTSD, the affects of illness and grief.
I am an interactive, solution-focused therapist dedicated to providing psychotherapy, EMDR, counseling, education, and support services to individuals, couples and professionals. I specialize in areas regarding the impact of stress, illness and loss, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, post-traumatic stress, life transitions, phobias, conflict resolution and all areas pertaining to creating and maintaining healthy relationships. Clients experience support, practical feedback, empathy, and insight to help them address life's challenges.
I offer a Three Day Intensive: a ten hour therapy program for treating depression, stress, anxiety, phobia, loss of confidence, PTSD, the affects of illness and grief.
I am an interactive, solution-focused therapist dedicated to providing psychotherapy, EMDR, counseling, education, and support services to individuals, couples and professionals. I specialize in areas regarding the impact of stress, illness and loss, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, post-traumatic stress, life transitions, phobias, conflict resolution and all areas pertaining to creating and maintaining healthy relationships. Clients experience support, practical feedback, empathy, and insight to help them address life's challenges.
(206) 735-3589 View (206) 735-3589
Photo of Valorie Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA
Valorie Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Rainier Valley, Seattle, WA 98118
Children and teens often need special support and encouragement around expressing feelings of grief and loss due to the death of a loved one, divorce, or transition.
Hello and welcome to my practice! My approach to therapy with you will be a collaborative process to help you frame problems not only in a personal context, but also in a social and cultural context. We all possess resilience and have many resources within us, some not yet realized. There are times in life when you may need a caring professional to walk with you on a journey toward a more peaceful, healthy, integrated self. My office is cozy and conveniently located in the Alaska Junction of West Seattle, with handicap access and 2 hour free parking.
Children and teens often need special support and encouragement around expressing feelings of grief and loss due to the death of a loved one, divorce, or transition.
Hello and welcome to my practice! My approach to therapy with you will be a collaborative process to help you frame problems not only in a personal context, but also in a social and cultural context. We all possess resilience and have many resources within us, some not yet realized. There are times in life when you may need a caring professional to walk with you on a journey toward a more peaceful, healthy, integrated self. My office is cozy and conveniently located in the Alaska Junction of West Seattle, with handicap access and 2 hour free parking.
(206) 489-3811 View (206) 489-3811

See more therapy options for Rainier Valley, Seattle

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.