Grief Therapists in King, NC

Photo of Whitney B Smith, LCMHC, LPC
Whitney B Smith
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
King, NC 27021
My areas of competence include attachment, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, EMDR, somatic psychotherapy, codependency, boundary issues, anxiety, depression, grief, childhood trauma and abuse.
I am currently a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina and a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Virginia. To date, my clinical experience includes community mental health as a site supervisor of a school-based mental health program, a clinical trainer at the Center for Counselor Education and Family Studies at Liberty University, and as an outpatient therapist in two different practice. My experience in the community, private, and academic sectors has allowed me to work with a variety of clinical issues.
My areas of competence include attachment, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, EMDR, somatic psychotherapy, codependency, boundary issues, anxiety, depression, grief, childhood trauma and abuse.
I am currently a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina and a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Virginia. To date, my clinical experience includes community mental health as a site supervisor of a school-based mental health program, a clinical trainer at the Center for Counselor Education and Family Studies at Liberty University, and as an outpatient therapist in two different practice. My experience in the community, private, and academic sectors has allowed me to work with a variety of clinical issues.
(336) 347-4538 View (336) 347-4538
Photo of Nicole Powell, MEd, LCMHCA, Counselor
Nicole Powell
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
King, NC 27021
), personality disorders, grief and loss, life transitions, stress and coping skills.
I believe that every person has the ability to grow, heal and change. As a counselor, I provide a space of nonjudgmental acceptance and authenticity which invites clients to show up exactly as they are and to be valued and supported in all aspects of their identity. I aim to partner with and empower my clients, utilizing the strengths and skills they already possess, to work toward their goals for healing and growth. My counseling orientation is grounded in a family systems approach, though I also draw significantly from attachment theory and person-centered counseling.
), personality disorders, grief and loss, life transitions, stress and coping skills.
I believe that every person has the ability to grow, heal and change. As a counselor, I provide a space of nonjudgmental acceptance and authenticity which invites clients to show up exactly as they are and to be valued and supported in all aspects of their identity. I aim to partner with and empower my clients, utilizing the strengths and skills they already possess, to work toward their goals for healing and growth. My counseling orientation is grounded in a family systems approach, though I also draw significantly from attachment theory and person-centered counseling.
(336) 594-2301 View (336) 594-2301
Photo of Deidre Montgomery, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deidre Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
King, NC 27021
Outside of my focus areas, I have experience working with bipolar disorder, substance use, depression, grief, trauma, borderline personality disorder, chronic illness/pain, children, teens, young adults, older adults, and low-income.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is collaborative work with your goals as the focus. The number of different therapeutic treatments out there may be overwhelming, but I can help you find what works. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
Outside of my focus areas, I have experience working with bipolar disorder, substance use, depression, grief, trauma, borderline personality disorder, chronic illness/pain, children, teens, young adults, older adults, and low-income.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is collaborative work with your goals as the focus. The number of different therapeutic treatments out there may be overwhelming, but I can help you find what works. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
(336) 396-5798 View (336) 396-5798
Photo of April Milam - Hope Holistic Counseling And Wellness, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
April Milam - Hope Holistic Counseling And Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
King, NC 27021  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Helping the hurting is my focus, from the scrapes of life to the deep wounds. We all have challenges and can benefit from support, education, new skills, or other healing. A holistic approach allows for addressing the mind, body, and spirit when needed. I strive to provide a safe place to process emotions, solve problems, or seek growth. People are created for connection. Many problems come back to this core truth. I use these principles to examine blocks to this connection. Confidential. Nonjudgmental. Compassionate.
Helping the hurting is my focus, from the scrapes of life to the deep wounds. We all have challenges and can benefit from support, education, new skills, or other healing. A holistic approach allows for addressing the mind, body, and spirit when needed. I strive to provide a safe place to process emotions, solve problems, or seek growth. People are created for connection. Many problems come back to this core truth. I use these principles to examine blocks to this connection. Confidential. Nonjudgmental. Compassionate.
(336) 542-2299 View (336) 542-2299
Photo of Melissa Doerfer-Grace, MSEdS, LCMHC, NCC, CHT
Melissa Doerfer-Grace
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MSEdS, LCMHC, NCC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
King, NC 27021
Through great pain comes better awareness and understanding about ourselves and the world around us. My journey as a counselor began during my experience with war deployments, which inspired my search to find ways to help others who are hurting. After completing my Master's degrees in Couples and Family Counseling, I have worked extensively with the court system, with families in need, and with individuals of all ages. My other passion in life is speaking and learning more Spanish. I offer therapy sessions to adults, children, families, and couples. I am a certified hypnotherapist.
Through great pain comes better awareness and understanding about ourselves and the world around us. My journey as a counselor began during my experience with war deployments, which inspired my search to find ways to help others who are hurting. After completing my Master's degrees in Couples and Family Counseling, I have worked extensively with the court system, with families in need, and with individuals of all ages. My other passion in life is speaking and learning more Spanish. I offer therapy sessions to adults, children, families, and couples. I am a certified hypnotherapist.
(336) 592-7011 View (336) 592-7011
Photo of Michele Hairston - Faith First Christian Counseling, MAMF, LCMHC
Michele Hairston - Faith First Christian Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAMF, LCMHC
Verified Verified
King, NC 27021
As a counselor, I believe that true and lasting change comes from looking at the whole person. I work with patients to bring about transformation through an understanding of the body, emotional healing, behavioral change and a spiritual foundation. I enjoy working with adolescents and families who have been affected by violence, trauma, family changes, drugs and major life changes. I also work with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, life changes, addictions as a result of trauma, self-regulation, stress and conflict. I desire to help strengthen and deepen your personal relationship with Jesus Christ as you heal.
As a counselor, I believe that true and lasting change comes from looking at the whole person. I work with patients to bring about transformation through an understanding of the body, emotional healing, behavioral change and a spiritual foundation. I enjoy working with adolescents and families who have been affected by violence, trauma, family changes, drugs and major life changes. I also work with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, life changes, addictions as a result of trauma, self-regulation, stress and conflict. I desire to help strengthen and deepen your personal relationship with Jesus Christ as you heal.
(336) 663-0423 View (336) 663-0423
Photo of Caren M Jackson, MS/EdS, LCMHC
Caren M Jackson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS/EdS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
King, NC 27021
Offering more in-person availability in Winston-Salem, in November 2023, for clients who prefer to meet in an office setting! Telehealth appointments also immediately available. I know that having a good fit between a client and their counselor is the most important aspect in treating and improving mental wellbeing. I look forward to hearing from you. I come from a community mental health setting and have worked with a wide range of clinical conditions. My approach to counseling includes a family systems and community framework, with a focus on understanding and improving one's relationship to self and others.
Offering more in-person availability in Winston-Salem, in November 2023, for clients who prefer to meet in an office setting! Telehealth appointments also immediately available. I know that having a good fit between a client and their counselor is the most important aspect in treating and improving mental wellbeing. I look forward to hearing from you. I come from a community mental health setting and have worked with a wide range of clinical conditions. My approach to counseling includes a family systems and community framework, with a focus on understanding and improving one's relationship to self and others.
(336) 791-8284 View (336) 791-8284

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rachelle Evans Burrell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachelle Evans Burrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106  (Online Only)
Drawing from my extensive 30 years of experience, I have gained invaluable insights from resilient clients who have navigated through complex grief, surmounted numerous obstacles, and faced challenging life transitions.
I provide compassionate, confidential, trauma informed care to teens and adults. Every stage of life comes with unique challenges and victories, and therapy helps people to navigate through these transitions. Anxiety, depression, coping with chronic illness, grief and loss are all treatable conditions that can be reduced or eliminated. You need an opportunity to discuss current concerns with a neutral party and this can be obtained through a therapeutic alliance with a therapist. I strive to really listen to what's important to you so that we can jointly develop a plan just for you.
Drawing from my extensive 30 years of experience, I have gained invaluable insights from resilient clients who have navigated through complex grief, surmounted numerous obstacles, and faced challenging life transitions.
I provide compassionate, confidential, trauma informed care to teens and adults. Every stage of life comes with unique challenges and victories, and therapy helps people to navigate through these transitions. Anxiety, depression, coping with chronic illness, grief and loss are all treatable conditions that can be reduced or eliminated. You need an opportunity to discuss current concerns with a neutral party and this can be obtained through a therapeutic alliance with a therapist. I strive to really listen to what's important to you so that we can jointly develop a plan just for you.
(336) 962-2598 View (336) 962-2598
Open Hearts Healing Minds Corporation
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27105
We specialize in substance use and recovery, trauma, attachment issues, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, academic struggles, improving family life, anger management, interpersonal issues, women's issues, LGBTQ+, and improving communication.
We believe in the client being the expert on what they need and the power of the therapeutic relationship. We believe in partnering with the client to foster healing, introspection, and growth. We are enthusiastically committed to helping people holistically—integrating mind, body, and spirit. We will work together to develop your short and long-term goals and to continue this collaboration throughout our work together. We utilize an eclectic approach to meet the therapeutic needs of each client. We serve adolescents (15-17), adults (18+), couples, and families. We bring an array of experience to ensure your needs are met.
We specialize in substance use and recovery, trauma, attachment issues, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, academic struggles, improving family life, anger management, interpersonal issues, women's issues, LGBTQ+, and improving communication.
We believe in the client being the expert on what they need and the power of the therapeutic relationship. We believe in partnering with the client to foster healing, introspection, and growth. We are enthusiastically committed to helping people holistically—integrating mind, body, and spirit. We will work together to develop your short and long-term goals and to continue this collaboration throughout our work together. We utilize an eclectic approach to meet the therapeutic needs of each client. We serve adolescents (15-17), adults (18+), couples, and families. We bring an array of experience to ensure your needs are met.
(336) 568-8101 View (336) 568-8101
Photo of Kimberly Autrey, MA, LCMHC, NCC, ACC
Kimberly Autrey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, ACC
Verified Verified
Pfafftown, NC 27040  (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. As a therapist, I love seeing people grow and make the changes they want to restore balance to their lives. My goal is to help you navigate life's challenges by offering a safe space to share your feelings and to deepen your understanding of your emotional health. I frequently serve clients experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, grief, relationship struggles, and school and work transitions. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or just feeling stuck, today you are one step closer to feeling empowered to move forward in your life.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. As a therapist, I love seeing people grow and make the changes they want to restore balance to their lives. My goal is to help you navigate life's challenges by offering a safe space to share your feelings and to deepen your understanding of your emotional health. I frequently serve clients experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, grief, relationship struggles, and school and work transitions. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or just feeling stuck, today you are one step closer to feeling empowered to move forward in your life.
(336) 791-0876 View (336) 791-0876
Photo of DeeDee Fetters, MACPC, LCMHC, LPCC, NCC
DeeDee Fetters
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MACPC, LCMHC, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rural Hall, NC 27045
We will reach for a band-aid or a medication without question. If our brain or heart hurts, we feel weak or inadequate, struggling to reach out for help. Mental Health is not seen as important and we stuff our emotions. Pain is just alerting us for a change, to be seen, and new ways to forge through our weaknesses. When we overcome our fears & anxieties -we find our strength, compassion, and then healing. Counseling provides options: putting our pain in the past, moving on to future, and giving hope. Choosing it -is up to you. We look forward to hearing your story and being a part of your healing.
We will reach for a band-aid or a medication without question. If our brain or heart hurts, we feel weak or inadequate, struggling to reach out for help. Mental Health is not seen as important and we stuff our emotions. Pain is just alerting us for a change, to be seen, and new ways to forge through our weaknesses. When we overcome our fears & anxieties -we find our strength, compassion, and then healing. Counseling provides options: putting our pain in the past, moving on to future, and giving hope. Choosing it -is up to you. We look forward to hearing your story and being a part of your healing.
(336) 502-7159 View (336) 502-7159
Photo of Elissa M Schroeder, PhD, Psychologist
Elissa M Schroeder
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pfafftown, NC 27040
I appreciate the variety and have the skills to help a wide range of patients, but I'm especially useful with patients who've had problems connecting with other therapists. I'm very familiar with physical and sexual abuse, but also with alienation and with spiritual and emotional trauma. Adoption and attachment issues are also a special interest. I'm trained and certified (Level II) in EMDR and DNMS, trauma-based treatments for people whose developmental needs were not met as children. I have extensive experience working with PTSD and dissociative patients, but also with "plain vanilla" folks -- of varying ethnicities -- challenged by difficult circumstances.
I appreciate the variety and have the skills to help a wide range of patients, but I'm especially useful with patients who've had problems connecting with other therapists. I'm very familiar with physical and sexual abuse, but also with alienation and with spiritual and emotional trauma. Adoption and attachment issues are also a special interest. I'm trained and certified (Level II) in EMDR and DNMS, trauma-based treatments for people whose developmental needs were not met as children. I have extensive experience working with PTSD and dissociative patients, but also with "plain vanilla" folks -- of varying ethnicities -- challenged by difficult circumstances.
(336) 891-0967 View (336) 891-0967
Photo of Rebecca L. Stone, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca L. Stone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
My passion is to bring hope and healing to the most difficult of circumstances. Are you suffering with depression or anxiety, going through a divorce or recovering from an abusive relationship? Are you struggling with addiction, grieving, or having trouble with your children/teenagers? Have you fallen out of love with your spouse? Do you find you are having the same arguments but nothing seems to change? Life can be difficult with a solution nowhere in sight.
My passion is to bring hope and healing to the most difficult of circumstances. Are you suffering with depression or anxiety, going through a divorce or recovering from an abusive relationship? Are you struggling with addiction, grieving, or having trouble with your children/teenagers? Have you fallen out of love with your spouse? Do you find you are having the same arguments but nothing seems to change? Life can be difficult with a solution nowhere in sight.
(336) 777-7494 View (336) 777-7494
Photo of Robyn Noftle, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn Noftle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pfafftown, NC 27040
As a therapist at Lewisville Family Counseling, I am passionate about working with clients to reach their self-identified goals. I work with a variety of mental and emotional issues, including anxiety, depression, maternal mental health, life transitions, school/work problems, relationship issues, and stress.
As a therapist at Lewisville Family Counseling, I am passionate about working with clients to reach their self-identified goals. I work with a variety of mental and emotional issues, including anxiety, depression, maternal mental health, life transitions, school/work problems, relationship issues, and stress.
(336) 777-7664 View (336) 777-7664
Photo of Brittany Calhoun, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Calhoun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Rural Hall, NC 27045
Committed social worker serving disadvantaged youth, adults, LGBTQ+ community, veterans, and the elderly. I empower clients to take charge of their own journey and find solutions to their unique situations. As a dedicated mental health professional, I bring a wealth of experience in therapy, and psychoeducation. With a focus on evidence-based practices, and a compassionate approach. I strive to empower individuals to overcome challenges and achieve holistic well-being. As a mental health professional specializing in substance use disorders, I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction and reclaim their lives.
Committed social worker serving disadvantaged youth, adults, LGBTQ+ community, veterans, and the elderly. I empower clients to take charge of their own journey and find solutions to their unique situations. As a dedicated mental health professional, I bring a wealth of experience in therapy, and psychoeducation. With a focus on evidence-based practices, and a compassionate approach. I strive to empower individuals to overcome challenges and achieve holistic well-being. As a mental health professional specializing in substance use disorders, I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction and reclaim their lives.
(336) 742-5107 View (336) 742-5107
Jenifer Shadrick
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Pfafftown, NC 27040  (Online Only)
Jenifer Shadrick is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). Jenifer obtained a Bachelor's degree in Psychology Christian Counseling with a minor in Special Education in 2013 from Liberty University and then went on to graduate with a Master’s degree of Professional Counseling in 2015. Jenifer works with individuals struggling with communication, impulse control, relationships, social skills, self esteem, anxiety, addictions, and adjustment issues.
Jenifer Shadrick is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). Jenifer obtained a Bachelor's degree in Psychology Christian Counseling with a minor in Special Education in 2013 from Liberty University and then went on to graduate with a Master’s degree of Professional Counseling in 2015. Jenifer works with individuals struggling with communication, impulse control, relationships, social skills, self esteem, anxiety, addictions, and adjustment issues.
(336) 276-2753 View (336) 276-2753
Photo of Karen Arthur, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Karen Arthur
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pfafftown, NC 27040
I believe that healing that takes place with another person present is sacred. I enjoy working with clients at any stage of the healing process, from just starting their journey to feeling confident in their abilities. We will create a safe, supportive environment for you to explore yourself and become the best possible you through listening, education, and creative counseling techniques that are NOT Freud's psychotherapy. I love it when clients bring in questions, ask for homework, and commit to the process of counseling. At the same time, I have worked successfully with numerous clients who weren't so sure about going on their journey yet. If motivation is lacking, I like to provide a sounding board for clients who want to be inspired and empowered to decide what's right for them. I regularly ask my clients to get their hands dirty so that in the future, you will have the tools and coping skills you need to embrace your life. Much of counseling is a "choose your own ending" adventure novel, and when you are up for those twists, I'll be right beside you so you do not have to walk through the dark alone.
I believe that healing that takes place with another person present is sacred. I enjoy working with clients at any stage of the healing process, from just starting their journey to feeling confident in their abilities. We will create a safe, supportive environment for you to explore yourself and become the best possible you through listening, education, and creative counseling techniques that are NOT Freud's psychotherapy. I love it when clients bring in questions, ask for homework, and commit to the process of counseling. At the same time, I have worked successfully with numerous clients who weren't so sure about going on their journey yet. If motivation is lacking, I like to provide a sounding board for clients who want to be inspired and empowered to decide what's right for them. I regularly ask my clients to get their hands dirty so that in the future, you will have the tools and coping skills you need to embrace your life. Much of counseling is a "choose your own ending" adventure novel, and when you are up for those twists, I'll be right beside you so you do not have to walk through the dark alone.
(336) 203-8341 View (336) 203-8341

Online Therapists

Photo of Diana Green, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106  (Online Only)
Welcome! It's nice to meet you. I work with adults of all ages who are unhappy with their day-to-day quality of life. My primary specialties are anxiety, depression, and grief. Perhaps you want to figure out how to improve your mood, learn coping strategies, and make changes for the better. I believe everyone has the right and the capacity for a vibrant and full life, and I would love to support you on your journey. My goal is to be on your team and to work with you: therapy is a collaborative process.
Welcome! It's nice to meet you. I work with adults of all ages who are unhappy with their day-to-day quality of life. My primary specialties are anxiety, depression, and grief. Perhaps you want to figure out how to improve your mood, learn coping strategies, and make changes for the better. I believe everyone has the right and the capacity for a vibrant and full life, and I would love to support you on your journey. My goal is to be on your team and to work with you: therapy is a collaborative process.
(336) 360-8632 View (336) 360-8632
Photo of Caitlin Eckert, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Eckert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27617  (Online Only)
Working with a therapist should feel safe, and that is one of my top priorities. Some of my clients have had therapists before, and others are brand new to therapy. Many of my clients are working through previous trauma (childhood and adulthood), have experienced loss, and many belong to a marginalized community. Some of my clients benefit from long-term therapy, while others engage in brief therapy to help get back on track to a better quality of life. Wherever you are in this process, I welcome you.
Working with a therapist should feel safe, and that is one of my top priorities. Some of my clients have had therapists before, and others are brand new to therapy. Many of my clients are working through previous trauma (childhood and adulthood), have experienced loss, and many belong to a marginalized community. Some of my clients benefit from long-term therapy, while others engage in brief therapy to help get back on track to a better quality of life. Wherever you are in this process, I welcome you.
(984) 464-4597 View (984) 464-4597
Photo of Jenna Daley, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Daley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
I have worked with many individuals who have struggled with anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD/ADD, life changes such as loss of loved one, divorce/separation, moving, and many more life stressors.
I earned my undergraduate degree from University of Southern Maine and went on to receive my Masters of Social Work degree from University of Southern Maine. I have worked in various therapeutic settings such as group homes, a psychiatric hospital, community mental health center and most recently been in private practice for the past 11 years within the Lake Norman community. I opened Peaceful Path Counseling, PLLC in 2021.
I have worked with many individuals who have struggled with anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD/ADD, life changes such as loss of loved one, divorce/separation, moving, and many more life stressors.
I earned my undergraduate degree from University of Southern Maine and went on to receive my Masters of Social Work degree from University of Southern Maine. I have worked in various therapeutic settings such as group homes, a psychiatric hospital, community mental health center and most recently been in private practice for the past 11 years within the Lake Norman community. I opened Peaceful Path Counseling, PLLC in 2021.
(980) 372-4920 View (980) 372-4920

See more therapy options for King

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.