Photo of Bevie LaBrie, Marriage & Family Therapist in Spokane, WA
Bevie LaBrie
Marriage & Family Therapist, ATR-BC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201
Waitlist for new clients
I help people access the intelligence of their right brain; unlock creativity, slow down reactions, process grief and trauma, resolve conflicts, reduce stress, increase self-identity and strengthen community through individual sessions, retreats and workshops.
Are you looking for a therapist that thinks outside of the box? Are you struggling in an area of life? I combine art and other creative therapies with talk therapy to enhance the therapeutic process. My expertise lies in working with trauma, creative blocks, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, stress resilience and life transitions. My passion is helping others discover the depths of their strength and resiliency. My love for people, creativity and nature greatly influence my approach to counseling.
I help people access the intelligence of their right brain; unlock creativity, slow down reactions, process grief and trauma, resolve conflicts, reduce stress, increase self-identity and strengthen community through individual sessions, retreats and workshops.
Are you looking for a therapist that thinks outside of the box? Are you struggling in an area of life? I combine art and other creative therapies with talk therapy to enhance the therapeutic process. My expertise lies in working with trauma, creative blocks, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, stress resilience and life transitions. My passion is helping others discover the depths of their strength and resiliency. My love for people, creativity and nature greatly influence my approach to counseling.
(509) 822-2918 View (509) 822-2918
Photo of Saryl Case, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Saryl Case
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99216
Immediate availability. When we meet, we'll focus on your needs and you'll be met with warmth. You'll feel supported in the courageous journey you're on. With me, topics that can feel uncomfortable do not feel uncomfortable. I have walked clients through talking about sex, relational discord, grief, and traumatic loss. Your emotional needs are valid, and to be known and seen are part of an enriching human experience; it would be an honor to meet you in such a way.
Immediate availability. When we meet, we'll focus on your needs and you'll be met with warmth. You'll feel supported in the courageous journey you're on. With me, topics that can feel uncomfortable do not feel uncomfortable. I have walked clients through talking about sex, relational discord, grief, and traumatic loss. Your emotional needs are valid, and to be known and seen are part of an enriching human experience; it would be an honor to meet you in such a way.
(509) 431-6039 View (509) 431-6039
Photo of Marilyn L Sears, Marriage & Family Therapist in Spokane, WA
Marilyn L Sears
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99208
Hello, my name is Marilyn Sears. You may be looking to discover new strategies for coping, and/or succeeding in your life's current challenges. If so, I would like to work with you in discussing issues that are important to you. My areas of specialization include working with relationship issues, couples therapy, grief/loss, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and postpartum adjustment. I may ask questions, clarify feelings, offer reassurance, interpret, and/or identify themes. Many people feel strengthened and supported in the process of counseling. If you would like, or simply have questions, please feel free to contact me.
Hello, my name is Marilyn Sears. You may be looking to discover new strategies for coping, and/or succeeding in your life's current challenges. If so, I would like to work with you in discussing issues that are important to you. My areas of specialization include working with relationship issues, couples therapy, grief/loss, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and postpartum adjustment. I may ask questions, clarify feelings, offer reassurance, interpret, and/or identify themes. Many people feel strengthened and supported in the process of counseling. If you would like, or simply have questions, please feel free to contact me.
(509) 316-0011 View (509) 316-0011
Photo of Cheryl Kay Wright, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Cheryl Kay Wright
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, NCC, CGIP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99223  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with women's issues, mood disorders, grief, loss, and PTSD.
Cheryl Wright M.ED, LMHC, SUDP, NCC, MAC, I have been a therapist over 12 years working with individuals who are struggling with life. It may be mental health, addiction, grief or relationship issues. My goal is to help you begin a healing journey to a more balanced self. I believe we need someone to talk to who will listen, not judge and accept us where we are. I want you to have peace, hope and make the changes you desire. I use a variety of approaches including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy and Reality Therapy. I believe everyone deserves the very best and I tailor my approach to meet your needs.
I enjoy working with women's issues, mood disorders, grief, loss, and PTSD.
Cheryl Wright M.ED, LMHC, SUDP, NCC, MAC, I have been a therapist over 12 years working with individuals who are struggling with life. It may be mental health, addiction, grief or relationship issues. My goal is to help you begin a healing journey to a more balanced self. I believe we need someone to talk to who will listen, not judge and accept us where we are. I want you to have peace, hope and make the changes you desire. I use a variety of approaches including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy and Reality Therapy. I believe everyone deserves the very best and I tailor my approach to meet your needs.
(509) 956-4891 View (509) 956-4891
Photo of Sarah X Winn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Spokane, WA
Sarah X Winn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMHC, LMFTA
Not Verified Not Verified
Spokane, WA 99204
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, grief and loss, healing from sexual abuse, healthy relationships, family of origin issues and LGBTQA issues.
I provide counseling services for children, youth, young adults, adults and families. I utilize a variety of orientations, methods and techniques, based on what is most appropriate for my clients at any given time. Together with clients I explore their unique selves, including their thoughts, feelings and experiences. My goal is to accompany them on their healing journey towards empowerment, greater self-awareness, knowledge and hope. I also aim to assist clients in identifying how their life experiences have helped make them the person they are and to recognize areas where they may have gotten stuck.
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, grief and loss, healing from sexual abuse, healthy relationships, family of origin issues and LGBTQA issues.
I provide counseling services for children, youth, young adults, adults and families. I utilize a variety of orientations, methods and techniques, based on what is most appropriate for my clients at any given time. Together with clients I explore their unique selves, including their thoughts, feelings and experiences. My goal is to accompany them on their healing journey towards empowerment, greater self-awareness, knowledge and hope. I also aim to assist clients in identifying how their life experiences have helped make them the person they are and to recognize areas where they may have gotten stuck.
(509) 412-3727 View (509) 412-3727
Photo of Artrice S Hughes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spokane, WA
Artrice S Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MHP, CCM
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201  (Online Only)
Life is a beautiful thing until one day you wake up to a nightmare. Feeling anger, anxious, betrayal, broken, defeated, loss, pain, or overwhelmed; unsure how to express your emotions or continue to live. Tired of hearing you are strong when in all actuality you feel yourself suffocating. I have been there and it is valid if you are too. A wise man once told me attack life's trials one nano second at a time and allow no one to take you out of your happy bubble. It's not the misery we face but the steps we take to overcoming those adversities to embrace your greatness. Healing is forever time to be free ReNana Your HeArt with me!
Life is a beautiful thing until one day you wake up to a nightmare. Feeling anger, anxious, betrayal, broken, defeated, loss, pain, or overwhelmed; unsure how to express your emotions or continue to live. Tired of hearing you are strong when in all actuality you feel yourself suffocating. I have been there and it is valid if you are too. A wise man once told me attack life's trials one nano second at a time and allow no one to take you out of your happy bubble. It's not the misery we face but the steps we take to overcoming those adversities to embrace your greatness. Healing is forever time to be free ReNana Your HeArt with me!
(509) 567-2573 View (509) 567-2573
Photo of John Stifter, Counselor in Spokane, WA
John Stifter
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99204
I am not your conventional psychotherapist. My journey into the world of mental health is uniquely shaped by my background as a ski journalist and lived experiences of grief, loss, tragedy, and trauma. Driven by a desire to bridge my passion for storytelling with holistic healing, I use my sincere interest in the human experience in the therapy setting to treat adults, couples, and families living with shame, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, addiction, and life transitions and questions. As the Sufi poet Rumi once wrote, “The cure for pain is in the pain.”
I am not your conventional psychotherapist. My journey into the world of mental health is uniquely shaped by my background as a ski journalist and lived experiences of grief, loss, tragedy, and trauma. Driven by a desire to bridge my passion for storytelling with holistic healing, I use my sincere interest in the human experience in the therapy setting to treat adults, couples, and families living with shame, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, addiction, and life transitions and questions. As the Sufi poet Rumi once wrote, “The cure for pain is in the pain.”
(509) 761-6396 View (509) 761-6396
Photo of Suzanne Apelskog And Associates Of Life's Learning, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Suzanne Apelskog And Associates Of Life's Learning
Counselor, MS, LMHC, PLLC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99205
At my very core, I enjoy and cherish people and your stories. That I get to be a part of your process of discovery, growth or healing is a great honor and one that I do not take lightly. I believe in the ability for people to heal, grow and change and draw from a holistic, person-centered approach. I specialize in assisting you through life's adjustments; meaning making, loss, grief and mourning; counseling with counselors; trauma, relationship challenges and struggles with a variety of mental health needs (e.g., anxiety, depression, anger, etc.). I believe in walking alongside you with your healing.
At my very core, I enjoy and cherish people and your stories. That I get to be a part of your process of discovery, growth or healing is a great honor and one that I do not take lightly. I believe in the ability for people to heal, grow and change and draw from a holistic, person-centered approach. I specialize in assisting you through life's adjustments; meaning making, loss, grief and mourning; counseling with counselors; trauma, relationship challenges and struggles with a variety of mental health needs (e.g., anxiety, depression, anger, etc.). I believe in walking alongside you with your healing.
(509) 563-7297 View (509) 563-7297
Photo of Mikayla Logue, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Mikayla Logue
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99223
I have experience working with adolescents, college students, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, and life transitions.
Life can be beautiful, challenging, inspiring, overwhelming, everything in between. Through life’s challenges, I believe there are opportunities for growth and healing through self-compassion, flexibility, and courage. As a counselor, I strive to step in and walk with you, wherever you are in your journey. Just as life is unique to the individual, the counseling journey is also personal to you. believe through exploring past patterns and creating flexibility to lean into the discomfort. Together we can dismantle disenfranchising stories and replace them with new and empowering stories that are aligned with your personal values.
I have experience working with adolescents, college students, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, and life transitions.
Life can be beautiful, challenging, inspiring, overwhelming, everything in between. Through life’s challenges, I believe there are opportunities for growth and healing through self-compassion, flexibility, and courage. As a counselor, I strive to step in and walk with you, wherever you are in your journey. Just as life is unique to the individual, the counseling journey is also personal to you. believe through exploring past patterns and creating flexibility to lean into the discomfort. Together we can dismantle disenfranchising stories and replace them with new and empowering stories that are aligned with your personal values.
(509) 286-2310 View (509) 286-2310
Photo of Ben Mandel, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Ben Mandel
Counselor, MC61310
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
Counseling is a wonderful step toward desired change, and it can also be a bit daunting at first. That's why I take time to form the therapeutic relationship at a pace that is comfortable for you. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and other various presenting problems. I am especially passionate about helping clients with relationship issues. We often engage in patterns that leave us feeling isolated or frustrated in our relationships. Learning new ways to tune into ourselves and our partner can help ease feelings of distress and improve connectedness.
Counseling is a wonderful step toward desired change, and it can also be a bit daunting at first. That's why I take time to form the therapeutic relationship at a pace that is comfortable for you. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and other various presenting problems. I am especially passionate about helping clients with relationship issues. We often engage in patterns that leave us feeling isolated or frustrated in our relationships. Learning new ways to tune into ourselves and our partner can help ease feelings of distress and improve connectedness.
(509) 204-9782 View (509) 204-9782
Photo of Kelly Massey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spokane, WA
Kelly Massey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201  (Online Only)
Some seasons (or years) of life can leave us feeling stuck, disconnected, and fearful. Life can be devastatingly full of loss with little hope of recovery. I believe the best way to experience change and move towards recovery starts with acknowledging our unique strengths and resources - what are those things that keep us going? It also requires confronting the darker parts of life with a few trusted people. We are meant for connection. I would be honored to be a trusted person who walks towards healing with you. Are you open to exploring your own road of recovery with me?
Some seasons (or years) of life can leave us feeling stuck, disconnected, and fearful. Life can be devastatingly full of loss with little hope of recovery. I believe the best way to experience change and move towards recovery starts with acknowledging our unique strengths and resources - what are those things that keep us going? It also requires confronting the darker parts of life with a few trusted people. We are meant for connection. I would be honored to be a trusted person who walks towards healing with you. Are you open to exploring your own road of recovery with me?
(425) 517-1242 View (425) 517-1242
Photo of Jason McAllister, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Jason McAllister
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
I have specialties in existentialism, such as grief and loss, life transitions, spirituality and quarter-life/mid-life crises.
I have worked with a variety of different clients with unique and diverse walks of life. I became a counselor because I believe in people's ability to grow, learn and heal. I am here to help guide and facilitate that growth, to meet you where you are to help you heal, learn and grow. I provide a space of non-judgment, that is safe to walk on your path of discovery and recovery. Life can be a difficult journey at times and for different reasons, but it helps to have someone walk along side you as you persevere through these trials. I believe in hope, that even in our darkest of days, hope is on the horizon.
I have specialties in existentialism, such as grief and loss, life transitions, spirituality and quarter-life/mid-life crises.
I have worked with a variety of different clients with unique and diverse walks of life. I became a counselor because I believe in people's ability to grow, learn and heal. I am here to help guide and facilitate that growth, to meet you where you are to help you heal, learn and grow. I provide a space of non-judgment, that is safe to walk on your path of discovery and recovery. Life can be a difficult journey at times and for different reasons, but it helps to have someone walk along side you as you persevere through these trials. I believe in hope, that even in our darkest of days, hope is on the horizon.
(509) 204-8152 View (509) 204-8152
Photo of Wellness Encompassed, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Wellness Encompassed
Counselor
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99203
As well as Grief, couples counseling, life transitions and mood disorders.
Here at Wellness Encompassed we believe in treating the human and not the symptom. We see the client as an individual on a path that we embark on together, where we walk along side them, to support, advocate, and to provide guidance to as we meet them with compassion and understanding. We work with our clients to meet their needs and connect them to our community partners if requested, such as nutritional counseling, medication management, physical therapy, chiropractic care and even massage therapy. We believe we grow as a community the more we support one another in the spirit of compassion.
As well as Grief, couples counseling, life transitions and mood disorders.
Here at Wellness Encompassed we believe in treating the human and not the symptom. We see the client as an individual on a path that we embark on together, where we walk along side them, to support, advocate, and to provide guidance to as we meet them with compassion and understanding. We work with our clients to meet their needs and connect them to our community partners if requested, such as nutritional counseling, medication management, physical therapy, chiropractic care and even massage therapy. We believe we grow as a community the more we support one another in the spirit of compassion.
(509) 519-1641 View (509) 519-1641
Photo of Arynn Prescott, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Spokane, WA
Arynn Prescott
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99208  (Online Only)
You may notice self-doubt, overwhelm, or disconnection showing up in your life. Anxieties like these often overflow into our relationships too, which can feel like a lot to untangle. Thankfully, relationships can be a powerful place for growth. Our close relationships can even be the mirrors that help us see deeper pain and patterns we couldn't see before. I offer support to reconnect with yourself or your partner, lower relationship anxiety, understand your anger, rebuild trust and intimacy, heal after loss, or untangle old patterns that keep you from fully living. You don't have to carry the weight of this stress alone.
You may notice self-doubt, overwhelm, or disconnection showing up in your life. Anxieties like these often overflow into our relationships too, which can feel like a lot to untangle. Thankfully, relationships can be a powerful place for growth. Our close relationships can even be the mirrors that help us see deeper pain and patterns we couldn't see before. I offer support to reconnect with yourself or your partner, lower relationship anxiety, understand your anger, rebuild trust and intimacy, heal after loss, or untangle old patterns that keep you from fully living. You don't have to carry the weight of this stress alone.
(253) 243-3240 View (253) 243-3240
Photo of Life’s Learning and Associates (a group practice), Counselor in Spokane, WA
Life’s Learning and Associates (a group practice)
Counselor, MS, LMHC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99206
Specialties range from couples counseling (Emotional Focused Therapy and Gottman), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (anxiety and depression), trauma treatment (EMDR), Grief and Mourning and Expressive Therapies (use of art, sandplay and play) and person centered principles.
Some Openings via telehealth and in person, depending on flexibility with scheduling. At Life's Learning, we understand that life can be beautiful and hard both at once. Whether it is relationship challenges, feeling anxious or depressed, experiencing loss/transition or adjusting to something tough that is happening, we are here to support you to find hope and healing. We are a team of caring clinicians, who serve individuals and couples of various ages, with a warm welcome and compassion for the challenges life can bring. We currently have openings, depending on your counseling, billing, office or telehealth & scheduling needs.
Specialties range from couples counseling (Emotional Focused Therapy and Gottman), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (anxiety and depression), trauma treatment (EMDR), Grief and Mourning and Expressive Therapies (use of art, sandplay and play) and person centered principles.
Some Openings via telehealth and in person, depending on flexibility with scheduling. At Life's Learning, we understand that life can be beautiful and hard both at once. Whether it is relationship challenges, feeling anxious or depressed, experiencing loss/transition or adjusting to something tough that is happening, we are here to support you to find hope and healing. We are a team of caring clinicians, who serve individuals and couples of various ages, with a warm welcome and compassion for the challenges life can bring. We currently have openings, depending on your counseling, billing, office or telehealth & scheduling needs.
(509) 519-3678 View (509) 519-3678
Photo of Nicholas B Lauderdale, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Nicholas B Lauderdale
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99205  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! Reframing the way you think can be a life long process. My goal is help you change the way you look at yourself, life, goals, and even counseling. I take a more down to earth approach, and do my best to help relate therapeutic subject matter to a topic you can understand. I work to build a therapeutic alliance with you in order to meet your mental health needs and give you the tools necessary to improve your life. My areas of clinical focus are depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions (new job, or school transitions) and interpersonal communication between family, coworkers, and/or friends.
Accepting New Clients! Reframing the way you think can be a life long process. My goal is help you change the way you look at yourself, life, goals, and even counseling. I take a more down to earth approach, and do my best to help relate therapeutic subject matter to a topic you can understand. I work to build a therapeutic alliance with you in order to meet your mental health needs and give you the tools necessary to improve your life. My areas of clinical focus are depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions (new job, or school transitions) and interpersonal communication between family, coworkers, and/or friends.
(509) 402-1019 View (509) 402-1019
Photo of Sarah Harrison (Small), Licensed Professional Counselor in Spokane, WA
Sarah Harrison (Small)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99204  (Online Only)
I provide online counseling to individuals 14yo+ struggling with self-esteem issues, anxiety, emotional abuse, life transitions, identity questions, grief and loss, and depression.
My approach involves empathically engaging with your past, present, and future to increase self-empowerment and identify new paths toward thriving. The process of therapy is a collaboration between the client and clinician, but you will be the ultimate agent of change in your life. At the heart of my process, I use sensitive-inquiry and mindfulness-based practices to nudge you toward an integrated relationship with yourself. I will encourage you to feel deeply, tune into the physical sensations of your emotions, and find meaning-making systems. Self-compassion is a primary emphasis in my work.
I provide online counseling to individuals 14yo+ struggling with self-esteem issues, anxiety, emotional abuse, life transitions, identity questions, grief and loss, and depression.
My approach involves empathically engaging with your past, present, and future to increase self-empowerment and identify new paths toward thriving. The process of therapy is a collaboration between the client and clinician, but you will be the ultimate agent of change in your life. At the heart of my process, I use sensitive-inquiry and mindfulness-based practices to nudge you toward an integrated relationship with yourself. I will encourage you to feel deeply, tune into the physical sensations of your emotions, and find meaning-making systems. Self-compassion is a primary emphasis in my work.
(503) 751-8597 View (503) 751-8597
Photo of Lindy Turner - Life Tango Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Spokane, WA
Lindy Turner - Life Tango Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99202
Life can take many a difficult turn. A sudden tragedy, abrupt life change, or physical loss can leave us not knowing how to handle the emotional distress. Sometimes we find ourselves struggling to cope in a relationship that once was beautiful. Young families with developing children can begin experiencing great conflict for no apparent reason. The anxiety and depression we feel because of past neglect, abuse, or trauma can become overwhelming even years after the fact. Some of us feel like we have always been broken. Good news! There is healing. There is hope. There is a brighter tomorrow with a new, joyful outlook on life.
Life can take many a difficult turn. A sudden tragedy, abrupt life change, or physical loss can leave us not knowing how to handle the emotional distress. Sometimes we find ourselves struggling to cope in a relationship that once was beautiful. Young families with developing children can begin experiencing great conflict for no apparent reason. The anxiety and depression we feel because of past neglect, abuse, or trauma can become overwhelming even years after the fact. Some of us feel like we have always been broken. Good news! There is healing. There is hope. There is a brighter tomorrow with a new, joyful outlook on life.
(509) 204-8743 View (509) 204-8743
Photo of Sarah Leverett, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Sarah Leverett
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
I have the education, personal experience and compassion to help clients deal with difficult personal and family issues. I enjoy working with you individually or as a couple. My life experiences have given me the empathy and understanding needed to be a trusted psychotherapist. We can work on relationship issues, decision making, struggling through grief or divorce, PTSD, past trauma, or sexuality concerns. I have been a therapist, business woman, teacher, school counselor, university professor and mother for over 40 years, and I understand how challenging life can be!
I have the education, personal experience and compassion to help clients deal with difficult personal and family issues. I enjoy working with you individually or as a couple. My life experiences have given me the empathy and understanding needed to be a trusted psychotherapist. We can work on relationship issues, decision making, struggling through grief or divorce, PTSD, past trauma, or sexuality concerns. I have been a therapist, business woman, teacher, school counselor, university professor and mother for over 40 years, and I understand how challenging life can be!
(509) 987-5919 View (509) 987-5919
Photo of Melissa Roloff (Mindful Matters Counseling), Counselor in Spokane, WA
Melissa Roloff (Mindful Matters Counseling)
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, ADHD-PT, SFT-PT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99207  (Online Only)
I am your partner in your healing process to uncover your true potential and will assist you as you discover a life worth celebrating. While we cannot change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. I view people as experts in their own lives and am honored to walk with those seeking help through paths of trauma, grief, discovery, healing and restoration.
I am your partner in your healing process to uncover your true potential and will assist you as you discover a life worth celebrating. While we cannot change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. I view people as experts in their own lives and am honored to walk with those seeking help through paths of trauma, grief, discovery, healing and restoration.
(509) 485-8917 View (509) 485-8917

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.