Grief Therapists in Frankfort, IL

Photo of Tracey Kim Snow, Counselor in Frankfort, IL
Tracey Kim Snow
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LFT, RMT, CFT
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
I have multiple specialties including; adult and womens' issues, grief and bereavement, family and couples counseling, anxiety and depression, bipolar, positive psychology, spirituality and mindfulness, child and adolescent counseling, young adults, divorce and life transitions, self esteem, parenting, blended families, caregivers, self care, personal coaching and empowerment, trauma, addiction & recovery.
Counseling is my calling. I feel honored to play a role in assisting people to overcome obstacles and to become the person that they always felt was possible. I am hear to guide people on their journey of self discovery while also providing the skills and tools necessary to overcome what ever challenges life has brought their way. I truly love what I do and provide caring acceptance and support to my clients. I am proud to say that my biggest referral base is former clients and I could not ask for a biggest compliment. Looking forward to helping you.
I have multiple specialties including; adult and womens' issues, grief and bereavement, family and couples counseling, anxiety and depression, bipolar, positive psychology, spirituality and mindfulness, child and adolescent counseling, young adults, divorce and life transitions, self esteem, parenting, blended families, caregivers, self care, personal coaching and empowerment, trauma, addiction & recovery.
Counseling is my calling. I feel honored to play a role in assisting people to overcome obstacles and to become the person that they always felt was possible. I am hear to guide people on their journey of self discovery while also providing the skills and tools necessary to overcome what ever challenges life has brought their way. I truly love what I do and provide caring acceptance and support to my clients. I am proud to say that my biggest referral base is former clients and I could not ask for a biggest compliment. Looking forward to helping you.
(815) 737-7968 View (815) 737-7968
Photo of Jessica Kaminsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Frankfort, IL
Jessica Kaminsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, IL 60423
I currently work with teens (14+), young adults, and adults on a number of concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, grief, trauma, sexual violence, and life transitions.
I am passionate about empowering clients to connect with their authentic selves and their strengths in order to heal, grow, and make meaningful life changes. I utilize an integrative and collaborative approach with clients to help them identify their individual goals and provide insight, tools, and techniques to reach them. I believe working together with clients is important, and I aim to provide a calm, laid-back, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel safe to talk and process openly.
I currently work with teens (14+), young adults, and adults on a number of concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, grief, trauma, sexual violence, and life transitions.
I am passionate about empowering clients to connect with their authentic selves and their strengths in order to heal, grow, and make meaningful life changes. I utilize an integrative and collaborative approach with clients to help them identify their individual goals and provide insight, tools, and techniques to reach them. I believe working together with clients is important, and I aim to provide a calm, laid-back, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel safe to talk and process openly.
(630) 642-6471 View (630) 642-6471
Photo of Elizabeth Mabbott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Frankfort, IL
Elizabeth Mabbott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
I have worked with individuals and families struggling with grief, loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, self harm, lgbtqia relational conflicts, suicide ideation and more.
By gaining a deeper understanding of ourselves and our relationships, learning life-changing skills, discovering unique strengths, and collaborating with a therapist, we can reduce intolerable symptoms and change negative repeating patterns. We will work together to cultivate powerful insights that provide the path needed to reach your goals.
I have worked with individuals and families struggling with grief, loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, self harm, lgbtqia relational conflicts, suicide ideation and more.
By gaining a deeper understanding of ourselves and our relationships, learning life-changing skills, discovering unique strengths, and collaborating with a therapist, we can reduce intolerable symptoms and change negative repeating patterns. We will work together to cultivate powerful insights that provide the path needed to reach your goals.
(708) 834-7980 View (708) 834-7980
Photo of Sarah Hart, Counselor in Frankfort, IL
Sarah Hart
Counselor, MA, LCPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frankfort, IL 60423
Sarah is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who obtained her Master's degree in Clinical Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Sarah provides individual, family and couples counseling to all age ranges. Sarah has had all-encompassing experience across therapeutic settings, including residential treatment settings, partial hospitalization, community based and on an outpatient basis. Sarah specializes in treating individuals who suffer from suicidal ideations, self-injuring behaviors, depression, anxiety/panic, personality disorders, trauma, loss, transitional phases, eating disorders and substance abuse/dependence.
Sarah is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who obtained her Master's degree in Clinical Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Sarah provides individual, family and couples counseling to all age ranges. Sarah has had all-encompassing experience across therapeutic settings, including residential treatment settings, partial hospitalization, community based and on an outpatient basis. Sarah specializes in treating individuals who suffer from suicidal ideations, self-injuring behaviors, depression, anxiety/panic, personality disorders, trauma, loss, transitional phases, eating disorders and substance abuse/dependence.
(708) 816-5495 View (708) 816-5495
Photo of Kristen Dundee, Counselor in Frankfort, IL
Kristen Dundee
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
Waitlist for new clients
There are many situations that can influence a person to seek therapy services. Maybe you are going through a difficult transition, such as grief, loss, or divorce. Maybe you are experiencing signs and symptoms of anxiety or depression and are feeling nervous, worried, or sad. Regardless of the life transition or the type of symptoms you are struggling with, therapy can help. My goal is to understand what has led to this point in time, what this experience has been like for you, and what direction in life you want to go. Working together, we’ll determine what obstacles are getting in the way of moving forward and what steps can be
There are many situations that can influence a person to seek therapy services. Maybe you are going through a difficult transition, such as grief, loss, or divorce. Maybe you are experiencing signs and symptoms of anxiety or depression and are feeling nervous, worried, or sad. Regardless of the life transition or the type of symptoms you are struggling with, therapy can help. My goal is to understand what has led to this point in time, what this experience has been like for you, and what direction in life you want to go. Working together, we’ll determine what obstacles are getting in the way of moving forward and what steps can be
(815) 806-9300 View (815) 806-9300
Photo of Rick Adema, Counselor in Frankfort, IL
Rick Adema
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
Have you hit a point in your life where you feel like you’re spinning your wheels in a rut on the side of the road while the rest of life is flying past you? Would you like to feel that you have a handle on how to manage your life, rather than just fighting through the days? I work with the stress and anxiety that has touched so many lives, especially in this past year. I also work with people struggling with difficulties in their relationships, experiencing loss or loneliness, having trouble meeting goals, or a history of trauma. By listening to your life experiences and roadblocks we will begin to develop a big picture and a plan.
Have you hit a point in your life where you feel like you’re spinning your wheels in a rut on the side of the road while the rest of life is flying past you? Would you like to feel that you have a handle on how to manage your life, rather than just fighting through the days? I work with the stress and anxiety that has touched so many lives, especially in this past year. I also work with people struggling with difficulties in their relationships, experiencing loss or loneliness, having trouble meeting goals, or a history of trauma. By listening to your life experiences and roadblocks we will begin to develop a big picture and a plan.
(779) 204-4943 View (779) 204-4943
Photo of Ralph Pollaro, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frankfort, IL
Ralph Pollaro
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
Is every day life pulling you down? Do you feel overwhelmed or are you looking for a sense of direction? I have frequently found that people wait a while before finally making a decision to try therapy. Most of them comment that they wish they would’ve done this sooner. So much growth, awareness, and contentment can come from this process. I work with a wide variety of approaches, such Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). These are highly regarded in dealing with such issues as anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma.
Is every day life pulling you down? Do you feel overwhelmed or are you looking for a sense of direction? I have frequently found that people wait a while before finally making a decision to try therapy. Most of them comment that they wish they would’ve done this sooner. So much growth, awareness, and contentment can come from this process. I work with a wide variety of approaches, such Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). These are highly regarded in dealing with such issues as anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma.
(779) 600-2650 View (779) 600-2650
Photo of Dr. Amy Suszko Brown, Psychologist in Frankfort, IL
Dr. Amy Suszko Brown
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
Anxiety, depression, health issues, stress, relationship issues, grief, worry, loneliness, and feeling completely overwhelmed can be a struggle. Life is challenging, and it can be difficult to know where to begin. Making changes to your life is a big step and you do not have to do it alone. Therapy is a collaborative conversation designed to better understand you and your life. Whether you are experiencing a temporary disruption due to a life stressor, or are constantly feeling overwhelmed, therapy can help you achieve the sense of well-being everyone is entitled.
Anxiety, depression, health issues, stress, relationship issues, grief, worry, loneliness, and feeling completely overwhelmed can be a struggle. Life is challenging, and it can be difficult to know where to begin. Making changes to your life is a big step and you do not have to do it alone. Therapy is a collaborative conversation designed to better understand you and your life. Whether you are experiencing a temporary disruption due to a life stressor, or are constantly feeling overwhelmed, therapy can help you achieve the sense of well-being everyone is entitled.
(708) 955-8070 View (708) 955-8070
Photo of Dr. Joyce Nugent Hirschbeck, Psychologist in Frankfort, IL
Dr. Joyce Nugent Hirschbeck
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423  (Online Only)
Deciding to seek therapy can be both exciting and frightening. It is a time when you have made an important decision to improve your life, to seek balance, and to find solutions to your problems. I am open, welcoming, and empathic in my approach. I work with adults, teens, couples, and families. My treatment orientations are family systems & cognitive-behavioral therapy. I specialize in the treatment of pathologies such as: Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Personality Disorders, Couple Conflict, Divorce, and Families in Crisis. I specialize in marital & family therapy, grief work, and trauma.
Deciding to seek therapy can be both exciting and frightening. It is a time when you have made an important decision to improve your life, to seek balance, and to find solutions to your problems. I am open, welcoming, and empathic in my approach. I work with adults, teens, couples, and families. My treatment orientations are family systems & cognitive-behavioral therapy. I specialize in the treatment of pathologies such as: Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Personality Disorders, Couple Conflict, Divorce, and Families in Crisis. I specialize in marital & family therapy, grief work, and trauma.
(815) 446-1132 View (815) 446-1132
Photo of Dr. Jackie Kamradt, Psychologist in Frankfort, IL
Dr. Jackie Kamradt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
I offer counseling/psychotherapy for a range of mental health problems including trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, relational concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, & have expertise helping people in the perinatal period, NICU families, veterans, & individuals with ADHD & concentration/attentional concerns.
As a clinical psychologist & certified yoga instructor, I am passionate about taking a holistic & tailored approach when working with clients. I am committed to helping you get out of your “analysis paralysis” & into your life. I want to help you to discover your freedom in how you relate to your mind (& body!) & share the secret your brain has been keeping from you your whole life: Your thoughts are not your boss. I aim to help not only reduce the symptoms interfering with your life, but also to help optimize your mental health/well-being to live a life aligned with how you want to be in the world.
I offer counseling/psychotherapy for a range of mental health problems including trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, relational concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, & have expertise helping people in the perinatal period, NICU families, veterans, & individuals with ADHD & concentration/attentional concerns.
As a clinical psychologist & certified yoga instructor, I am passionate about taking a holistic & tailored approach when working with clients. I am committed to helping you get out of your “analysis paralysis” & into your life. I want to help you to discover your freedom in how you relate to your mind (& body!) & share the secret your brain has been keeping from you your whole life: Your thoughts are not your boss. I aim to help not only reduce the symptoms interfering with your life, but also to help optimize your mental health/well-being to live a life aligned with how you want to be in the world.
(779) 201-6824 View (779) 201-6824
Photo of Liz Fleming-Willis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Frankfort, IL
Liz Fleming-Willis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, IL 60423
Is your child going through a hard time? Are you struggling to navigate the ups and downs of your life or your child's life? Whatever circumstances you or your young person may be facing, I am here to walk alongside you to empower your path onward. I create a safe space for child, adolescent, and adult clients to fully encounter themselves and identify personal insight. I specialize in grief, anger management, self-esteem issues, trauma, substance use, and other child and adolescent issues. I am passionate about advocating for clients to develop their self-advocacy and empower their ability to thrive.
Is your child going through a hard time? Are you struggling to navigate the ups and downs of your life or your child's life? Whatever circumstances you or your young person may be facing, I am here to walk alongside you to empower your path onward. I create a safe space for child, adolescent, and adult clients to fully encounter themselves and identify personal insight. I specialize in grief, anger management, self-esteem issues, trauma, substance use, and other child and adolescent issues. I am passionate about advocating for clients to develop their self-advocacy and empower their ability to thrive.
(708) 394-7420 View (708) 394-7420
Photo of Megan Johnson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frankfort, IL
Megan Johnson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
They often describe a history of trauma or loss, substance concerns, loneliness, ADHD, low self-esteem and just a wide variety of life challenges.
Do you often wish you could stop overthinking? Have you been trying to figure out where to start fixing what’s wrong? Therapy can be an amazing tool. Working with someone that has an objective ear and that can help you sort it all out can be such a relief. When you find that right fit, it allows you to begin to understand yourself in ways that you never have before. This new understanding leads to changes that often seemed out of reach. I firmly believe that developing a strong sense of self awareness leads to self compassion and clarity. And that opens you up to make the changes you want that will last.
They often describe a history of trauma or loss, substance concerns, loneliness, ADHD, low self-esteem and just a wide variety of life challenges.
Do you often wish you could stop overthinking? Have you been trying to figure out where to start fixing what’s wrong? Therapy can be an amazing tool. Working with someone that has an objective ear and that can help you sort it all out can be such a relief. When you find that right fit, it allows you to begin to understand yourself in ways that you never have before. This new understanding leads to changes that often seemed out of reach. I firmly believe that developing a strong sense of self awareness leads to self compassion and clarity. And that opens you up to make the changes you want that will last.
(779) 246-3990 View (779) 246-3990
Briana Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
As a licensed clinical social worker, I create a space of safety and trust. I listen and provide support to assist in the process of self-discovery, healing, growth and empowerment. I am committed to treating individuals, couples, and children and developing strategies that improve your mental and spiritual health. I am experienced in treating anxiety, anger management, depression, grief and loss, post-traumatic stress, racial trauma and healthy relationship management.
As a licensed clinical social worker, I create a space of safety and trust. I listen and provide support to assist in the process of self-discovery, healing, growth and empowerment. I am committed to treating individuals, couples, and children and developing strategies that improve your mental and spiritual health. I am experienced in treating anxiety, anger management, depression, grief and loss, post-traumatic stress, racial trauma and healthy relationship management.
(708) 766-8837 View (708) 766-8837
Photo of Veronica Torres, Pre-Licensed Professional in Frankfort, IL
Veronica Torres
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Frankfort, IL 60423
Currently accepting new clients. I am currently working as a Counselor at Beyond Healing Counseling & Wellness Center. I have experience working with individuals (children, teens, adults, older adults) and couples. My approach is person-centered and meeting my client's where they're at and building trust. My clinical background includes experience with: depression, anxiety, women’s issues, navigating cultural issues, self-esteem, family conflict, life transitions & adjustments, trauma, divorce, marital/relationship issues, boundary setting, work-life balance, career issues, parenting issues, grief & loss, communication & stress.
Currently accepting new clients. I am currently working as a Counselor at Beyond Healing Counseling & Wellness Center. I have experience working with individuals (children, teens, adults, older adults) and couples. My approach is person-centered and meeting my client's where they're at and building trust. My clinical background includes experience with: depression, anxiety, women’s issues, navigating cultural issues, self-esteem, family conflict, life transitions & adjustments, trauma, divorce, marital/relationship issues, boundary setting, work-life balance, career issues, parenting issues, grief & loss, communication & stress.
(708) 787-0099 View (708) 787-0099
Photo of Mia Micele, Pre-Licensed Professional in Frankfort, IL
Mia Micele
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Frankfort, IL 60423
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorders, stress management, grief, anger, relationships issues, family issues, self-esteem issues, boundary setting, career development, school related concerns, communication issues, conflict-resolution, and life transitions.
My theory of choice is Adlerian theory which is a holistic approach to psychology that emphasizes the importance of overcoming feels of inferiority and gaining a sense of belonging in order to achieve success and happiness. One thing that I really enjoy about Adlerian theory is that it is integrative and can be adapted for specific needs of the individual. It emphasizes techniques that promote growth and resilience and some of the techniques used in this type of therapy include: Providing encouragement, creating expectations, examining the purposes for behavior, examining memories, and an establishment of goals.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorders, stress management, grief, anger, relationships issues, family issues, self-esteem issues, boundary setting, career development, school related concerns, communication issues, conflict-resolution, and life transitions.
My theory of choice is Adlerian theory which is a holistic approach to psychology that emphasizes the importance of overcoming feels of inferiority and gaining a sense of belonging in order to achieve success and happiness. One thing that I really enjoy about Adlerian theory is that it is integrative and can be adapted for specific needs of the individual. It emphasizes techniques that promote growth and resilience and some of the techniques used in this type of therapy include: Providing encouragement, creating expectations, examining the purposes for behavior, examining memories, and an establishment of goals.
(708) 766-8117 View (708) 766-8117
Photo of Ericka Swanson, Psychologist in Frankfort, IL
Ericka Swanson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, IL 60423  (Online Only)
WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH, THE TOUGH GET GOING You may not feel tough right now, but deep down you know you have the strength to tackle the problems you are facing. These problems may be extraordinary stressors, life transitions, combat fatigue, post-partum depression, unexpected/expected loss of close relationships, trauma, abuse, or relationship problems. I can be part of the team that assists you in strengthening the resources that you have inside. RELATIONSHIPS AND FAMILIES CAN BE LIKE DOMINOS Families and couples are linked. If part of that link is broke or off balance, other members involved can be affected.
WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH, THE TOUGH GET GOING You may not feel tough right now, but deep down you know you have the strength to tackle the problems you are facing. These problems may be extraordinary stressors, life transitions, combat fatigue, post-partum depression, unexpected/expected loss of close relationships, trauma, abuse, or relationship problems. I can be part of the team that assists you in strengthening the resources that you have inside. RELATIONSHIPS AND FAMILIES CAN BE LIKE DOMINOS Families and couples are linked. If part of that link is broke or off balance, other members involved can be affected.
(708) 512-7179 View (708) 512-7179
Reem Mohamed
Counselor, MA, LCPC, Certifi, School, Counsel
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are struggling in a relationship, overwhelmed with stressors in your life, feeling anxious, experiencing a loss, or simply need a empathic ear, allow me to walk alongside as we restructure and repair your emotional wellness.
One of the greatest gifts you can give yourself is a therapeutic experience that allows you a sacred place to gain support, perspective, healing, and most importantly, freedom. I have a passion for helping clients through their journey to healthy healing and emotional wellness. I provide a space for clients to transform their obstacles into resilience, hope, and success.
Whether you are struggling in a relationship, overwhelmed with stressors in your life, feeling anxious, experiencing a loss, or simply need a empathic ear, allow me to walk alongside as we restructure and repair your emotional wellness.
One of the greatest gifts you can give yourself is a therapeutic experience that allows you a sacred place to gain support, perspective, healing, and most importantly, freedom. I have a passion for helping clients through their journey to healthy healing and emotional wellness. I provide a space for clients to transform their obstacles into resilience, hope, and success.
(708) 315-2796 View (708) 315-2796
Photo of Abundant Life Counseling & Wellness Group, Inc., Counselor in Frankfort, IL
Abundant Life Counseling & Wellness Group, Inc.
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clients include individual adults, couples, families, and groups. During my years in the counseling field I've worked with depression, anxiety, adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse, trauma, self-harm, addictions, dissociative disorders, men's and women's issues, codepedency, communication, infidelity, grief and loss, boundaries, divorce, parenting, marital problems, eating disorders, life transitions, adjustment difficulties, and many other issues.
My clients include individual adults, couples, families, and groups. During my years in the counseling field I've worked with depression, anxiety, adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse, trauma, self-harm, addictions, dissociative disorders, men's and women's issues, codepedency, communication, infidelity, grief and loss, boundaries, divorce, parenting, marital problems, eating disorders, life transitions, adjustment difficulties, and many other issues.
(815) 274-1205 View (815) 274-1205
Photo of Kristen Marie Scott, Counselor in Frankfort, IL
Kristen Marie Scott
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
Whether you are struggling with a typical life transition such as: marriage, divorce, adoption, or death, or suffering from anxiety, anger, depression, or self-harm/sabotaging behaviors, therapy will be tailored to your individual situation.
I believe that, without exception, every individual carries within, the capacity required for healing to occur. As a therapist, it is my honor and privilege to help clients and their families uncover and understand the meanings and feelings associated with their symptoms. Whether the primary client is a child, adolescent, or adult, I work collaboratively with couples/parents to create a treatment plan that is right for the family as a whole. From this perspective we can then work together to discover more adaptive and creative ways to solve problems, build relationships, and live rich and fulfilling lives.
Whether you are struggling with a typical life transition such as: marriage, divorce, adoption, or death, or suffering from anxiety, anger, depression, or self-harm/sabotaging behaviors, therapy will be tailored to your individual situation.
I believe that, without exception, every individual carries within, the capacity required for healing to occur. As a therapist, it is my honor and privilege to help clients and their families uncover and understand the meanings and feelings associated with their symptoms. Whether the primary client is a child, adolescent, or adult, I work collaboratively with couples/parents to create a treatment plan that is right for the family as a whole. From this perspective we can then work together to discover more adaptive and creative ways to solve problems, build relationships, and live rich and fulfilling lives.
(773) 598-4532 View (773) 598-4532
Photo of Maggie Mahoney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frankfort, IL
Maggie Mahoney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, IL 60423
Waitlist for new clients
Maggie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who obtained her Master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University, specializing in clinical mental health. She has extensive experience in providing therapy to those with trauma, grief and loss, transitional phases, anxiety, mood disorders, self-injurious behaviors, suicidal thoughts, and personality disorders.
Maggie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who obtained her Master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University, specializing in clinical mental health. She has extensive experience in providing therapy to those with trauma, grief and loss, transitional phases, anxiety, mood disorders, self-injurious behaviors, suicidal thoughts, and personality disorders.
(708) 745-6087 View (708) 745-6087
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.