Grief Therapists in Pleasant Valley, WV

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Photo of Dolly Sullivan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasant Valley, WV
Dolly Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairmont, WV 26554
Hello there. My name is Dolly Sullivan, native of Fairmont, WV. I am the Founder, Managing Director, Clinical Social Worker & Consultant at Intentional Wellness and Consulting, LLC. I am most effective working with fellow healthcare providers, life transitions, ages 12 - 85, couples/families, Deaf & hard-of hearing communities, caregivers of family members, grief/loss including miscarriages, foster parents, those who have survived traumatic experiences & those struggling with addiction & their family members. I also do corporate consulting on improving organizational health and culture.
Hello there. My name is Dolly Sullivan, native of Fairmont, WV. I am the Founder, Managing Director, Clinical Social Worker & Consultant at Intentional Wellness and Consulting, LLC. I am most effective working with fellow healthcare providers, life transitions, ages 12 - 85, couples/families, Deaf & hard-of hearing communities, caregivers of family members, grief/loss including miscarriages, foster parents, those who have survived traumatic experiences & those struggling with addiction & their family members. I also do corporate consulting on improving organizational health and culture.
(681) 200-8608 View (681) 200-8608
Photo of Amy Burdette, Counselor in Pleasant Valley, WV
Amy Burdette
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fairmont, WV 26554
My specialties and experience include the following therapies/ focus: adjustment disorders, bereavement, DBT, CBT, depression, anxiety, and relationship stress.
Anxious? Do you feel like your brain gets stuck? Are you worried about what COULD happen? Are you getting easily irritated towards loved ones? Maybe you are feeling sad, overwhelmed, or having a difficult time with life's changes. Reaching out can be frightening, as well as the idea of these symptoms worsening. I provide a safe, comfortable environment for you and/or your child/family to connect, feel heard and understood, and learn the tools needed to get back to functioning at the level you desire. Let me help you turn life's challenges into a journey of bravery and self-care.
My specialties and experience include the following therapies/ focus: adjustment disorders, bereavement, DBT, CBT, depression, anxiety, and relationship stress.
Anxious? Do you feel like your brain gets stuck? Are you worried about what COULD happen? Are you getting easily irritated towards loved ones? Maybe you are feeling sad, overwhelmed, or having a difficult time with life's changes. Reaching out can be frightening, as well as the idea of these symptoms worsening. I provide a safe, comfortable environment for you and/or your child/family to connect, feel heard and understood, and learn the tools needed to get back to functioning at the level you desire. Let me help you turn life's challenges into a journey of bravery and self-care.
(304) 809-9897 View (304) 809-9897
Photo of Gwyn Fortney, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pleasant Valley, WV
Gwyn Fortney
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairmont, WV 26554
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with grief/loss, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, intrusive thoughts, women’s issues, PTSD / trauma, relationship issues, and processing childhood trauma later in life.
The core of my counseling approach is to provide an environment that is comfortable, judgment free, and prioritizes your mental health. I don’t believe in trying to “fix people”, rather support their journey alongside them. My office is a place to explore life’s ups and down, discuss coping skills that resonate with you, and a place where we can grow with each other. There is no “one size fits all” in counseling so getting to know you; your interest, your learning style, your strengths, helps me pull from therapeutic theories and techniques to best fit your needs and goals.
I have experience working with grief/loss, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, intrusive thoughts, women’s issues, PTSD / trauma, relationship issues, and processing childhood trauma later in life.
The core of my counseling approach is to provide an environment that is comfortable, judgment free, and prioritizes your mental health. I don’t believe in trying to “fix people”, rather support their journey alongside them. My office is a place to explore life’s ups and down, discuss coping skills that resonate with you, and a place where we can grow with each other. There is no “one size fits all” in counseling so getting to know you; your interest, your learning style, your strengths, helps me pull from therapeutic theories and techniques to best fit your needs and goals.
(304) 249-3619 View (304) 249-3619
Photo of Jamie Downs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasant Valley, WV
Jamie Downs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, AADC, CCJP
Verified Verified
Fairmont, WV 26554
I provide care for a variety of issues including stress, trauma, anxiety, PTSD, grief, anger, family issues, adjustment issues, depression, and addictions.
Wanting to make positive changes in your life? Ready to overcome limiting beliefs, strengthen self-acceptance, and live more fully in the present moment? I look forward to walking with you on your personal journey to living a more fulfilling life. My name is Jamie Downs and I am a LICSW and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor providing psychotherapy services and individualized addictions counseling to those living in Morgantown, WV and the surrounding areas. Licensed in WV and PA. Telehealth appointments are also available for individuals in both WV and PA.
I provide care for a variety of issues including stress, trauma, anxiety, PTSD, grief, anger, family issues, adjustment issues, depression, and addictions.
Wanting to make positive changes in your life? Ready to overcome limiting beliefs, strengthen self-acceptance, and live more fully in the present moment? I look forward to walking with you on your personal journey to living a more fulfilling life. My name is Jamie Downs and I am a LICSW and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor providing psychotherapy services and individualized addictions counseling to those living in Morgantown, WV and the surrounding areas. Licensed in WV and PA. Telehealth appointments are also available for individuals in both WV and PA.
(304) 760-5746 View (304) 760-5746
Photo of Children in Balance, Counselor in Pleasant Valley, WV
Children in Balance
Counselor, MA, PsyD
Not Verified Not Verified
Fairmont, WV 26554
Each counselor has attended several trainings and has extensive experience working with common childhood issues such as Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, Childhood Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Anger Management and Trauma.
Children In Balance, a division of Women in Balance, offers high quality behavioral and mental health counseling for children, adolescents and families. We offer individual or group therapy. Our counselors have significant experience and training in working with children and their families. While approaching each person as an individual with their own positive characteristics and one-of-a-kind needs, our counselors offer effective therapeutic techniques that enhance progress. We offer a warm and inviting space where each child can safely explore their emotions and behaviors.
Each counselor has attended several trainings and has extensive experience working with common childhood issues such as Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, Childhood Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Anger Management and Trauma.
Children In Balance, a division of Women in Balance, offers high quality behavioral and mental health counseling for children, adolescents and families. We offer individual or group therapy. Our counselors have significant experience and training in working with children and their families. While approaching each person as an individual with their own positive characteristics and one-of-a-kind needs, our counselors offer effective therapeutic techniques that enhance progress. We offer a warm and inviting space where each child can safely explore their emotions and behaviors.
(304) 782-6663 View (304) 782-6663
Photo of Mara Kirkpatrick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasant Valley, WV
Mara Kirkpatrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
Fairmont, WV 26554
My journey with my own mental health and experiences of loss have been a guiding force for me.
I firmly believe in client- centric approach, emphasizing that the therapy journey is for individuals to achieve their own objectives, not predetermined benchmarks set by me. The ideal patient approaches therapy with openness, honesty, and a willingness to communicate. For me, therapy is a collaborative venture, a shared exploration where clients are empowered to understand and reframe their presenting problems. I create a safe space, encouraging open dialogue that allows individuals to delve into their narratives, unraveling layers of emotions, and finding strength in vulnerability.
My journey with my own mental health and experiences of loss have been a guiding force for me.
I firmly believe in client- centric approach, emphasizing that the therapy journey is for individuals to achieve their own objectives, not predetermined benchmarks set by me. The ideal patient approaches therapy with openness, honesty, and a willingness to communicate. For me, therapy is a collaborative venture, a shared exploration where clients are empowered to understand and reframe their presenting problems. I create a safe space, encouraging open dialogue that allows individuals to delve into their narratives, unraveling layers of emotions, and finding strength in vulnerability.
(304) 902-6356 View (304) 902-6356
Photo of Keegan Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasant Valley, WV
Keegan Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairmont, WV 26554
I’ve worked closely with adolescents, college age students, adults, and working professionals experiencing behavioral concerns, addiction, loss, relationship discord, and those wanting to learn new skills to navigate a difficult world.
The process of asking for help can be truly frightening. Sometimes it’s difficult asking a simple request, like a ride to work, or asking someone to listen to you when you’re stressed. Therapy can be a step in improving that relationship with yourself, and to help you know your feelings and experiences are valid. A lot of life is adapting to our environments, often to keep ourselves safe, but sometimes those learned behaviors have long-term effects on our ability to understand our needs and others.
I’ve worked closely with adolescents, college age students, adults, and working professionals experiencing behavioral concerns, addiction, loss, relationship discord, and those wanting to learn new skills to navigate a difficult world.
The process of asking for help can be truly frightening. Sometimes it’s difficult asking a simple request, like a ride to work, or asking someone to listen to you when you’re stressed. Therapy can be a step in improving that relationship with yourself, and to help you know your feelings and experiences are valid. A lot of life is adapting to our environments, often to keep ourselves safe, but sometimes those learned behaviors have long-term effects on our ability to understand our needs and others.
(304) 602-7332 View (304) 602-7332
Photo of Judith (Jude) Black, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pleasant Valley, WV
Judith (Jude) Black
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, ALPS, CCTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fairmont, WV 26554
I am an ALPS and multi-certified with over 25 years of experience specializing trauma, relationships, military, and life! I am a regular contributor for Home Business & have been featured in Elle Magazine, MTVNews, Modern Loss, Refinery 29, and Military Times and more.
Are you feeling stuck, alone, lost? I can help. Everyone struggles with navigating a world that's often unkind, confusing, and overwhelming. I get it, it's hard to be a human. Having lived all over the world & moved 19 times, I know life can be tricky to navigate. Sometimes you need someone from the outside to help you make sense of life's messy stuff. I can. I've worked in prisons, with veterans, mil-families, trauma victims, govt officials, celebrities, moms, dads, college students, people like you and me, just trying to do life. I'm confident that together, we can shift, adjust, adapt and thrive. Breathe, then get unstuck.
I am an ALPS and multi-certified with over 25 years of experience specializing trauma, relationships, military, and life! I am a regular contributor for Home Business & have been featured in Elle Magazine, MTVNews, Modern Loss, Refinery 29, and Military Times and more.
Are you feeling stuck, alone, lost? I can help. Everyone struggles with navigating a world that's often unkind, confusing, and overwhelming. I get it, it's hard to be a human. Having lived all over the world & moved 19 times, I know life can be tricky to navigate. Sometimes you need someone from the outside to help you make sense of life's messy stuff. I can. I've worked in prisons, with veterans, mil-families, trauma victims, govt officials, celebrities, moms, dads, college students, people like you and me, just trying to do life. I'm confident that together, we can shift, adjust, adapt and thrive. Breathe, then get unstuck.
(304) 467-4109 View (304) 467-4109
Photo of Appalachian Life Enrichment Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pleasant Valley, WV
Appalachian Life Enrichment Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairmont, WV 26554
Now in Morgantown! Therapy is a place to pause, reflect on what you are seeking in life and explore the barriers preventing you from taking that next step in your journey. Life changes or chronic situations can throw us off course, leaving us to feel out of sync, confused, & disconnected from life. Whether you are looking to reconnect, find purpose, learn new coping skills, process trauma or loss, manage anxiety, deal with shame or make a life changing decision, therapy can be a safe place to discover the power you have within yourself to design your own solutions & find new ways to navigate challenging situations. Multisites!
Now in Morgantown! Therapy is a place to pause, reflect on what you are seeking in life and explore the barriers preventing you from taking that next step in your journey. Life changes or chronic situations can throw us off course, leaving us to feel out of sync, confused, & disconnected from life. Whether you are looking to reconnect, find purpose, learn new coping skills, process trauma or loss, manage anxiety, deal with shame or make a life changing decision, therapy can be a safe place to discover the power you have within yourself to design your own solutions & find new ways to navigate challenging situations. Multisites!
(304) 467-4175 View (304) 467-4175
Photo of Christian Counseling Associates of West Virginia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pleasant Valley, WV
Christian Counseling Associates of West Virginia
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Fairmont, WV 26554
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(304) 449-5274 View (304) 449-5274
Photo of Kari Kahl, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pleasant Valley, WV
Kari Kahl
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairmont, WV 26554
Waitlist for new clients
I’m Kari Kahl and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor at Thomas Integrative Psychotherapy and with PSIMED, Inc. in Morgantown, WV. As a Trauma-Informed therapist, I am sensitive to the influence of past experiences on present challenges. I work with my clients to revise the narrative of their life and help to heal old wounds in order for clients to heal and move on with a newfound feeling of freedom and sense of relief. I have experience and training in many different techniques and therapeutic approaches which helps me to be multifaceted with treatment plans that are truly individualistic.
I’m Kari Kahl and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor at Thomas Integrative Psychotherapy and with PSIMED, Inc. in Morgantown, WV. As a Trauma-Informed therapist, I am sensitive to the influence of past experiences on present challenges. I work with my clients to revise the narrative of their life and help to heal old wounds in order for clients to heal and move on with a newfound feeling of freedom and sense of relief. I have experience and training in many different techniques and therapeutic approaches which helps me to be multifaceted with treatment plans that are truly individualistic.
(304) 318-7752 View (304) 318-7752
Photo of Bartley Deane Gibson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasant Valley, WV
Bartley Deane Gibson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ADHD-PT, CCT-TP, SFT-PT
Verified Verified
Fairmont, WV 26555
Waitlist for new clients
I feel privileged to have worked as a helping professional for over 25 years. I became a social worker after serving on active duty in the United States Army. I began my career serving children, adolescents, their parents and families, in their home, school and community settings. I’ve been a foster adoptive parent to troubled and troubling children and am proudly the father of our 13, year old multiple diagnosis special needs daughter. I’ve dedicated myself to helping people learn to heal from trauma and mental health symptoms in general by helping them to develop their personal best path forward.
I feel privileged to have worked as a helping professional for over 25 years. I became a social worker after serving on active duty in the United States Army. I began my career serving children, adolescents, their parents and families, in their home, school and community settings. I’ve been a foster adoptive parent to troubled and troubling children and am proudly the father of our 13, year old multiple diagnosis special needs daughter. I’ve dedicated myself to helping people learn to heal from trauma and mental health symptoms in general by helping them to develop their personal best path forward.
(304) 407-4321 View (304) 407-4321
Photo of Mark A. King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasant Valley, WV
Mark A. King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairmont, WV 26554  (Online Only)
I find it important to meet people where they are in life. Taking the steps towards healing and change is not easy. Exploring values and identifying barriers gives a path towards the things you may want in life. My favorite question to ask is “What do YOU want?”, followed by my second which is “What are YOU doing to get there?” With those two questions you and
I find it important to meet people where they are in life. Taking the steps towards healing and change is not easy. Exploring values and identifying barriers gives a path towards the things you may want in life. My favorite question to ask is “What do YOU want?”, followed by my second which is “What are YOU doing to get there?” With those two questions you and
(304) 245-6602 View (304) 245-6602
Photo of Kiley R Brescoach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasant Valley, WV
Kiley R Brescoach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Fairmont, WV 26554
My approach is kind, direct and compassionate. You as a client, are my number one priority. We all are different so that means we all need different things to help us grow! My focus is to meet you where you are, assess your strengths and uniqueness, then work together to find a way to utilize and integrate those into accomplishing your goals. I like to gently push my clients toward openness, vulnerability and change. It’s so important to feel heard. It IS necessary for healing, & change. I am committed to offering a safe space for you to learn more about you and meet your goals. You deserve the opportunity to explore your feelings.
My approach is kind, direct and compassionate. You as a client, are my number one priority. We all are different so that means we all need different things to help us grow! My focus is to meet you where you are, assess your strengths and uniqueness, then work together to find a way to utilize and integrate those into accomplishing your goals. I like to gently push my clients toward openness, vulnerability and change. It’s so important to feel heard. It IS necessary for healing, & change. I am committed to offering a safe space for you to learn more about you and meet your goals. You deserve the opportunity to explore your feelings.
(304) 467-4386 View (304) 467-4386
Photo of Michelle Wakeley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasant Valley, WV
Michelle Wakeley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fairmont, WV 26554  (Online Only)
If you're looking to "talk to someone," let's talk. Life stressors, unresolved childhood trauma, PTSD, anxiety, or new challenges can be overwhelming to deal with alone. You deserve to give yourself a chance for things to be different. I have over 10 years of experience helping clients achieve more fulfilling and meaningful lives.
If you're looking to "talk to someone," let's talk. Life stressors, unresolved childhood trauma, PTSD, anxiety, or new challenges can be overwhelming to deal with alone. You deserve to give yourself a chance for things to be different. I have over 10 years of experience helping clients achieve more fulfilling and meaningful lives.
(304) 534-9321 View (304) 534-9321
Photo of Bonnie Strayer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasant Valley, WV
Bonnie Strayer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairmont, WV 26554
Stressful and terrifying experiences can leave people feeling isolated. Feeling detached from others and like no one can understand what happens in your mind makes it difficult to interact with people. It’s hard to be hopeful when you are experiencing mental health symptoms like this, but you’re here looking for someone to talk to, and that’s really wonderful. If you’d like, check out my website and see if I’m someone you could chat with. We can set up a time to talk on the phone for a no cost 15 minute consultation so that you can get a feel for who I am.
Stressful and terrifying experiences can leave people feeling isolated. Feeling detached from others and like no one can understand what happens in your mind makes it difficult to interact with people. It’s hard to be hopeful when you are experiencing mental health symptoms like this, but you’re here looking for someone to talk to, and that’s really wonderful. If you’d like, check out my website and see if I’m someone you could chat with. We can set up a time to talk on the phone for a no cost 15 minute consultation so that you can get a feel for who I am.
(304) 451-5708 View (304) 451-5708
Photo of Emily Reel Professional Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pleasant Valley, WV
Emily Reel Professional Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , AADC-S, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairmont, WV 26554
Change can be difficult, seem impossible, and leave a person feeling overwhelmed, powerless, and destined to stay stuck. I believe that change is achievable, and each person can become the person he/she wants to be in life. The process of change is unique for each person, and it is my goal to empower and encourage each person to identify and harness personal strengths while overcoming problematic thoughts and behaviors. Change is challenging but possible. I would like to help you achieve your change.
Change can be difficult, seem impossible, and leave a person feeling overwhelmed, powerless, and destined to stay stuck. I believe that change is achievable, and each person can become the person he/she wants to be in life. The process of change is unique for each person, and it is my goal to empower and encourage each person to identify and harness personal strengths while overcoming problematic thoughts and behaviors. Change is challenging but possible. I would like to help you achieve your change.
(304) 692-5779 View (304) 692-5779
Photo of Brittney Matlick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pleasant Valley, WV
Brittney Matlick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMFT, NCC, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairmont, WV 26554
I work from a person-centered approach to promote an empowering atmosphere for my clients. It is important to me to help clients become aware of their own unique set of strengths that give them the ability to create positive change in their lives and relationships. I am passionate about facilitating growth within clients' marriages, love relationships, parent-child relationships, and any other relationships they wish to strengthen. Rather than focusing strictly on the symptomatic nature of clients' concerns, I take a holistic approach and foster an overall healing of the self.
I work from a person-centered approach to promote an empowering atmosphere for my clients. It is important to me to help clients become aware of their own unique set of strengths that give them the ability to create positive change in their lives and relationships. I am passionate about facilitating growth within clients' marriages, love relationships, parent-child relationships, and any other relationships they wish to strengthen. Rather than focusing strictly on the symptomatic nature of clients' concerns, I take a holistic approach and foster an overall healing of the self.
(304) 381-1536 View (304) 381-1536
Photo of Ellis Moran, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pleasant Valley, WV
Ellis Moran
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Fairmont, WV 26554
Therapy is a collaborative process where one can explore their thoughts, behaviors and emotions and how those can have an impact on our mental health, interpersonal relationships, and overall daily functioning. There is a power in embracing vulnerability and learning to accept oneself and identify areas where one may want to improve to get where they want to be. I enjoy helping my clients to make meaningful connections and navigate the challenges that life tends to throw at us.
Therapy is a collaborative process where one can explore their thoughts, behaviors and emotions and how those can have an impact on our mental health, interpersonal relationships, and overall daily functioning. There is a power in embracing vulnerability and learning to accept oneself and identify areas where one may want to improve to get where they want to be. I enjoy helping my clients to make meaningful connections and navigate the challenges that life tends to throw at us.
(304) 396-7060 View (304) 396-7060
Photo of Alexandra Ludden, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pleasant Valley, WV
Alexandra Ludden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairmont, WV 26554
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of WV, able to virtually meet with people across the state and those near by in office, as they choose . I have six years of experiences in many areas of therapy. I want to help others find their path to gain control of their struggles with mental health issues, and empower them by finding the right tools and ways of thought to bring empowerment to their lives. I have found that my strengths as a therapist include crisis management, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, BPD, trauma, couples counseling and helping those struggling with gender identity and LGBTQ+ issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of WV, able to virtually meet with people across the state and those near by in office, as they choose . I have six years of experiences in many areas of therapy. I want to help others find their path to gain control of their struggles with mental health issues, and empower them by finding the right tools and ways of thought to bring empowerment to their lives. I have found that my strengths as a therapist include crisis management, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, BPD, trauma, couples counseling and helping those struggling with gender identity and LGBTQ+ issues.
(304) 486-3258 View (304) 486-3258

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.