Photo of Walka Estevez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Walka Estevez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104  (Online Only)
Walka Estevez is a bilingual (Spanish, English) therapist with over 12 years of experience in the field working with adolescents, adults (female, male), providing them individual, family and group therapy. Walka is specializes in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, oppositional and defiant behavior.
Walka Estevez is a bilingual (Spanish, English) therapist with over 12 years of experience in the field working with adolescents, adults (female, male), providing them individual, family and group therapy. Walka is specializes in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, oppositional and defiant behavior.
(610) 756-9561 View (610) 756-9561
Photo of Letecia M Garcia, MA, LPC, CISTT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Letecia M Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CISTT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Emmaus, PA 18049  (Online Only)
The best days are yet to come. I am a liberation and embodiment-oriented healing companion, passionately empowering clients that are seeking a trauma-certified practitioner, are Queer/LGBTQ+ identified, as well as people exploring the spectrum of gender, sexuality, sexual expression as well as expansive relationship structures (poly, ethical non-monogamy, swinging, etc). I specialize in CPTSD, Sexual/Relational/Intergenerational Trauma, Gender Dysphoria, Grief, Anxiety, as well as treating and destigmatizing compulsive sexual and non-sexual behaviors of all types. Let's break cycles, challenge the status-quo and break free together.
The best days are yet to come. I am a liberation and embodiment-oriented healing companion, passionately empowering clients that are seeking a trauma-certified practitioner, are Queer/LGBTQ+ identified, as well as people exploring the spectrum of gender, sexuality, sexual expression as well as expansive relationship structures (poly, ethical non-monogamy, swinging, etc). I specialize in CPTSD, Sexual/Relational/Intergenerational Trauma, Gender Dysphoria, Grief, Anxiety, as well as treating and destigmatizing compulsive sexual and non-sexual behaviors of all types. Let's break cycles, challenge the status-quo and break free together.
(610) 569-0726 View (610) 569-0726
Photo of Michelle Dorshimer - Michelle D, LPC, CAGCS, CSAM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle D
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAGCS, CSAM
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18102
She holds certifications in Grief and Loss & Anger Management.
Therapy can be intimating, Michelle is able to provide a safe space by also having fun with a serene approach. Michelle is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Kutztown University. She has broad knowledge of community based mental health, utilizing community support specific to a client’s needs. She brings expertise from school-based and outpatient settings. She is skilled in working with all ages, but specializes in working with adolescents and adults as they navigate through new life transitions, anger, mood disturbances, and challenges.
She holds certifications in Grief and Loss & Anger Management.
Therapy can be intimating, Michelle is able to provide a safe space by also having fun with a serene approach. Michelle is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Kutztown University. She has broad knowledge of community based mental health, utilizing community support specific to a client’s needs. She brings expertise from school-based and outpatient settings. She is skilled in working with all ages, but specializes in working with adolescents and adults as they navigate through new life transitions, anger, mood disturbances, and challenges.
(610) 298-9442 View (610) 298-9442
Photo of Dorothy Cashore, PhD, Psychologist
Dorothy Cashore
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18102  (Online Only)
I bring over a decade of experience to my practice, where I work with a wide range of struggles. I bring special expertise to self-image/self-esteem issues, trauma, and grief. As a holistic practitioner, I don’t limit my focus to treating symptoms or replacing behaviors. I work with body, spirit, heart, and gut, offering a space where you can step into a transformed relationship with yourself. I go underneath strategies and tools to help you develop inner resources, listen to your body and nervous system, let go of what no longer serves you, and bring new energy and clarity to your most important connections.
I bring over a decade of experience to my practice, where I work with a wide range of struggles. I bring special expertise to self-image/self-esteem issues, trauma, and grief. As a holistic practitioner, I don’t limit my focus to treating symptoms or replacing behaviors. I work with body, spirit, heart, and gut, offering a space where you can step into a transformed relationship with yourself. I go underneath strategies and tools to help you develop inner resources, listen to your body and nervous system, let go of what no longer serves you, and bring new energy and clarity to your most important connections.
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Photo of Sonya Hamilton-Padilla, MS, CMRFTC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sonya Hamilton-Padilla
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CMRFTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18106
My areas of expertise include working with those who are facing challenges of coping with grief, loneliness, fear, depression, family and marital conflict, anxiety, childhood trauma, relationship conflict, codependency, those who are adult children of emotional abusive and toxic parents, foster and adoptive parenting, and self-esteem struggles.
I have over 17-years of expertise as a therapist working in capacities such as a Family-Based Therapist, Outpatient Therapist, and as a Certified Marriage, Relationship & Family Trauma Coach. I am a warm, seasoned, and a compassionate healer. When we experience trauma and everyday life struggles, we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed; these things cause our lives to spiral. No single approach is the right fit for everyone and I utilize a range of therapy modalities. I also provide Christian Counseling by request. I provide therapeutic coaching to clients who live outside the state of PA and to expats who are living abroad.
My areas of expertise include working with those who are facing challenges of coping with grief, loneliness, fear, depression, family and marital conflict, anxiety, childhood trauma, relationship conflict, codependency, those who are adult children of emotional abusive and toxic parents, foster and adoptive parenting, and self-esteem struggles.
I have over 17-years of expertise as a therapist working in capacities such as a Family-Based Therapist, Outpatient Therapist, and as a Certified Marriage, Relationship & Family Trauma Coach. I am a warm, seasoned, and a compassionate healer. When we experience trauma and everyday life struggles, we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed; these things cause our lives to spiral. No single approach is the right fit for everyone and I utilize a range of therapy modalities. I also provide Christian Counseling by request. I provide therapeutic coaching to clients who live outside the state of PA and to expats who are living abroad.
(610) 859-4638 View (610) 859-4638
Photo of Stephanie Weber-Atkinson, PsyD, Psychologist
Stephanie Weber-Atkinson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Breinigsville, PA 18031
My passion is lifespan services; helping people adjust to transitional stages throughout their lives; school-transitions, marriage, divorce, developmental disabilities, academic difficulties, motivational issues, relationship roadblocks, grief and loss, geographic relocations, etc.
I am a Licensed Psychologist in Pennsylvania and New York with a specialty in clinical psychology. I specialize in psychological assessments and evaluations and utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy in my practice. I have years of experience with adjustment disorders, life transitions, and overall family development. Prior to working in private practice, I was sought after for my extensive psychological evaluations, including cognitive, academic/achievement, personality, and neuropsychological inventories. I believe that assessment tools, particularly self-report inventories, are useful in guiding therapeutic progress in therapy.
My passion is lifespan services; helping people adjust to transitional stages throughout their lives; school-transitions, marriage, divorce, developmental disabilities, academic difficulties, motivational issues, relationship roadblocks, grief and loss, geographic relocations, etc.
I am a Licensed Psychologist in Pennsylvania and New York with a specialty in clinical psychology. I specialize in psychological assessments and evaluations and utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy in my practice. I have years of experience with adjustment disorders, life transitions, and overall family development. Prior to working in private practice, I was sought after for my extensive psychological evaluations, including cognitive, academic/achievement, personality, and neuropsychological inventories. I believe that assessment tools, particularly self-report inventories, are useful in guiding therapeutic progress in therapy.
(610) 572-7893 View (610) 572-7893
Photo of Inner Most Healing Therapy Shannon Myers, LMFT, Counselor
Inner Most Healing Therapy Shannon Myers
Counselor, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18106
I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families dealing with relational issues, life cycle changes, communication, marriage difficulties, stress, adolescent struggles, depression, spiritual struggles, grief and overcoming the grid lock that often gets us stuck in negative patterns.
My passion as a therapist is to help foster growth and wholeness among individuals, couples and families. It takes incredible courage to reach out for help, so it is important for me to meet each person exactly where they are on their journey. It is essential that I foster a safe environment that allows for vulnerability, which leads to healing.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families dealing with relational issues, life cycle changes, communication, marriage difficulties, stress, adolescent struggles, depression, spiritual struggles, grief and overcoming the grid lock that often gets us stuck in negative patterns.
My passion as a therapist is to help foster growth and wholeness among individuals, couples and families. It takes incredible courage to reach out for help, so it is important for me to meet each person exactly where they are on their journey. It is essential that I foster a safe environment that allows for vulnerability, which leads to healing.
(484) 778-4212 View (484) 778-4212
Photo of Leslie Chaundy - Mind Matters , PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP, Psychologist
Mind Matters
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18106
We offer help for anxiety, depression, grief and loss, academic and behavioral concerns, ADHD and other developmental issues, addictions, trauma and PTSD, plus much more.
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
We offer help for anxiety, depression, grief and loss, academic and behavioral concerns, ADHD and other developmental issues, addictions, trauma and PTSD, plus much more.
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
(610) 595-5762 View (610) 595-5762
Photo of Marlena Wendrick, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marlena Wendrick
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Center Valley, PA 18034
You're not alone if you're feelings stuck or grappling with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, grief, loss, or any other challenges.
I specialize in providing tailored support for women, millennials and gen Z facing a myriad of challenges. Whether it's navigating the pressures of career and academic stress, exploring identity, or managing financial strain, I offer compassionate guidance to foster growth and resilience. From navigating complex family dynamics to addressing existential concerns and combating feelings of loneliness and isolation, my approach encompasses holistic well-being. Together, we'll navigate relationship dynamics, including those with aging parents, and prioritize self-care practices to cultivate a fulfilling life.
You're not alone if you're feelings stuck or grappling with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, grief, loss, or any other challenges.
I specialize in providing tailored support for women, millennials and gen Z facing a myriad of challenges. Whether it's navigating the pressures of career and academic stress, exploring identity, or managing financial strain, I offer compassionate guidance to foster growth and resilience. From navigating complex family dynamics to addressing existential concerns and combating feelings of loneliness and isolation, my approach encompasses holistic well-being. Together, we'll navigate relationship dynamics, including those with aging parents, and prioritize self-care practices to cultivate a fulfilling life.
(484) 956-7139 View (484) 956-7139
Photo of Prof. Ida Andrea Olmeda, MS, PC/RP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Prof. Ida Andrea Olmeda
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PC/RP
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18109
Waitlist for new clients
There comes a time when we all need a safe and comfortable place we can take our personal experiences and express that which may be keeping us from living our best life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, divorce, anger, self-esteem, relationship challenges or any other issue, I am committed to helping you navigate through those difficult and rough terrains. I consider it a privilege when I am invited into the most personal and sacred spaces of my clients’ lives. Therefore I am committed to providing each client with an individually tailored treatment plan that will address their specific needs.
There comes a time when we all need a safe and comfortable place we can take our personal experiences and express that which may be keeping us from living our best life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, divorce, anger, self-esteem, relationship challenges or any other issue, I am committed to helping you navigate through those difficult and rough terrains. I consider it a privilege when I am invited into the most personal and sacred spaces of my clients’ lives. Therefore I am committed to providing each client with an individually tailored treatment plan that will address their specific needs.
(610) 295-5079 View (610) 295-5079
Photo of Nancy E. Dutt, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy E. Dutt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Emmaus, PA 18049  (Online Only)
Areas of practice include personal loss, (this takes the form of grief, loss of job, retirement, major life changes), Stress, Anxiety, Self Esteem, Worry, Panic Attacks, Life Decisions, Communication Issues, Depression, Over Eating Issues, Relationship Issues Career Stress, Life transitions, and Co-Dependency.
I offer my clients a safe, comfortable atmosphere in which to process difficulties/concerns they are currently experiencing. I believe in taking all aspects of a person's life into consideration when planning treatment. I work with my clients to plan an approach to change and empowerment that is tailored to meet their personality, background experiences, and goals. I look for strengths my clients already possess and build upon them, also taking into consideration areas in their lives they believe need healing and development. I assist my clients in working at a pace that is right and comfortable for then.
Areas of practice include personal loss, (this takes the form of grief, loss of job, retirement, major life changes), Stress, Anxiety, Self Esteem, Worry, Panic Attacks, Life Decisions, Communication Issues, Depression, Over Eating Issues, Relationship Issues Career Stress, Life transitions, and Co-Dependency.
I offer my clients a safe, comfortable atmosphere in which to process difficulties/concerns they are currently experiencing. I believe in taking all aspects of a person's life into consideration when planning treatment. I work with my clients to plan an approach to change and empowerment that is tailored to meet their personality, background experiences, and goals. I look for strengths my clients already possess and build upon them, also taking into consideration areas in their lives they believe need healing and development. I assist my clients in working at a pace that is right and comfortable for then.
(610) 915-8428 View (610) 915-8428
Photo of Leslie Chaundy - Mind Matters Counseling & Psychological Assocs, PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP, Psychologist
Mind Matters Counseling & Psychological Assocs
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18106
We offer help for anxiety, depression, grief and loss, academic and behavioral concerns, ADHD and other developmental issues, addictions, trauma and PTSD, plus much more.
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
We offer help for anxiety, depression, grief and loss, academic and behavioral concerns, ADHD and other developmental issues, addictions, trauma and PTSD, plus much more.
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
(610) 816-6232 View (610) 816-6232
Photo of Adila Cosgrove - Anwari Counseling Services LLC, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anwari Counseling Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18102
Hi there, we are glad to see you taking the first step towards finding a therapist. At Anwari Counseling Services we believe in the power of diversity to provide comprehensive and tailored mental health care. Our team of experienced therapists come from varied backgrounds and possesses a wide range of specialties, ensuring that we can meet the unique needs of every individual who walks through our doors. The diversity allows us to offer a broad spectrum of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Child and Adolescent, Family and Couples Counseling, Trauma Informed care and EMDR therapy.
Hi there, we are glad to see you taking the first step towards finding a therapist. At Anwari Counseling Services we believe in the power of diversity to provide comprehensive and tailored mental health care. Our team of experienced therapists come from varied backgrounds and possesses a wide range of specialties, ensuring that we can meet the unique needs of every individual who walks through our doors. The diversity allows us to offer a broad spectrum of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Child and Adolescent, Family and Couples Counseling, Trauma Informed care and EMDR therapy.
(610) 590-8315 View (610) 590-8315
Photo of Anastasia Katchan, LCSW, CCTP, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anastasia Katchan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Macungie, PA 18062  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging. Stress, anxiety, depression and relationship problems can affect a quality of your life. You might feel overwhelmed and unsure what to do. I help clients to learn about themselves, heal from negative life experiences, learn coping skills and have an exciting and satisfying sex life. I work with clients who have lack of sexual desire, difficulties with reaching an orgasm, pain during sex and erectile difficulties. I am a certified clinical trauma professional, and an AASECT certified sex therapist.
Life can be challenging. Stress, anxiety, depression and relationship problems can affect a quality of your life. You might feel overwhelmed and unsure what to do. I help clients to learn about themselves, heal from negative life experiences, learn coping skills and have an exciting and satisfying sex life. I work with clients who have lack of sexual desire, difficulties with reaching an orgasm, pain during sex and erectile difficulties. I am a certified clinical trauma professional, and an AASECT certified sex therapist.
(610) 439-9825 View (610) 439-9825
Photo of Corinne Rieksts Todd, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Corinne Rieksts Todd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103
Each person deserves to have an environment where they can feel secure, validated and free to be who they are without worry of judgement. Having access to an encouraging environment can promote a journey towards a healthier perspective on life, along with increased feelings of peace and satisfaction. My approach to treatment is geared towards those who can use support in modifying negative thinking patterns, feelings of uneasiness, challenges in acknowledging personal strengths, difficulty with healthy boundary setting, ongoing or acute life challenges and relationship difficulties.
Each person deserves to have an environment where they can feel secure, validated and free to be who they are without worry of judgement. Having access to an encouraging environment can promote a journey towards a healthier perspective on life, along with increased feelings of peace and satisfaction. My approach to treatment is geared towards those who can use support in modifying negative thinking patterns, feelings of uneasiness, challenges in acknowledging personal strengths, difficulty with healthy boundary setting, ongoing or acute life challenges and relationship difficulties.
(267) 686-9029 View (267) 686-9029
Photo of Lauren Falgout - Hope and Healing Wellness Center,LLC, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hope and Healing Wellness Center,LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Breinigsville, PA 18031
Life can get stressful and overwhelming, but your mental health treatment does not have to be . We believe that where there is hope there can be healing. Having been trained in both mental health and substance abuse therapy, we can assist you in meeting both your personal and therapeutic goals, so that you can live the life you wish to lead. We are equipped to work with people of all races, ethnicities, religious backgrounds, ages, and sexual orientations.
Life can get stressful and overwhelming, but your mental health treatment does not have to be . We believe that where there is hope there can be healing. Having been trained in both mental health and substance abuse therapy, we can assist you in meeting both your personal and therapeutic goals, so that you can live the life you wish to lead. We are equipped to work with people of all races, ethnicities, religious backgrounds, ages, and sexual orientations.
(610) 890-9696 View (610) 890-9696
Photo of Patricia Terreros - Carter Ed Consulting and Family Counseling , MS , MEd
Carter Ed Consulting and Family Counseling
MS , MEd
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104
If you are looking for support to work on yourself, your family or increase your relationships with others, we are here. If learning has been difficult and seems out of reach, lets talk. If you are experiencing some conflict either internally or with others, we offer an empathic approach to support you on your journey to understanding. If you have lived a life of traumatic events or one, we are here to help. If you love people who just can't love you back, we are here to help you explore. For parents of adult children who have been left out, cut off or distanced, don't go it alone. For children, we are always here for you.
If you are looking for support to work on yourself, your family or increase your relationships with others, we are here. If learning has been difficult and seems out of reach, lets talk. If you are experiencing some conflict either internally or with others, we offer an empathic approach to support you on your journey to understanding. If you have lived a life of traumatic events or one, we are here to help. If you love people who just can't love you back, we are here to help you explore. For parents of adult children who have been left out, cut off or distanced, don't go it alone. For children, we are always here for you.
(610) 298-9277 View (610) 298-9277
Photo of Lorraine M Dorfman, PhD, Psychologist
Lorraine M Dorfman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103
Building Better Relationships. I specialize in relationships, whether it is with a partner, a friend, a family member, or yourself.
Building Better Relationships. I specialize in relationships, whether it is with a partner, a friend, a family member, or yourself.
(610) 915-8035 View (610) 915-8035
Photo of Jana Hanna, MA, NCC, CTP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jana Hanna
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18106
I am passionate about helping clients access their true selves and live their most abundant lives. Whether you are recovering from a traumatic event, experiencing a mental health concern, or simply feeling out of sync, I believe that you can experience healing through a helping relationship. I have specialized experience in working with foster families and children/adolescents as well as active duty military/veterans (and families), and issues including depression, anxiety, relationships, attachment, and childhood trauma.
I am passionate about helping clients access their true selves and live their most abundant lives. Whether you are recovering from a traumatic event, experiencing a mental health concern, or simply feeling out of sync, I believe that you can experience healing through a helping relationship. I have specialized experience in working with foster families and children/adolescents as well as active duty military/veterans (and families), and issues including depression, anxiety, relationships, attachment, and childhood trauma.
(610) 379-1427 View (610) 379-1427
Photo of Aliya Kenyatta, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aliya Kenyatta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18109  (Online Only)
“How do I keep ending up here? Is there something wrong with me?” It feels exhausting and embarrassing to be thriving in most areas of your life, while continuing to struggle with relationships. Running into the same relational issues over and over wreaks havoc on your nervous system and overall well being. Imagine how amazing it would feel to be comfortable and confident in this realm; To cruise this part of your life with the same knowledge and skill as you do with your career; To hold less resentment toward yourself and others in your life.
“How do I keep ending up here? Is there something wrong with me?” It feels exhausting and embarrassing to be thriving in most areas of your life, while continuing to struggle with relationships. Running into the same relational issues over and over wreaks havoc on your nervous system and overall well being. Imagine how amazing it would feel to be comfortable and confident in this realm; To cruise this part of your life with the same knowledge and skill as you do with your career; To hold less resentment toward yourself and others in your life.
(610) 379-3551 View (610) 379-3551

See more therapy options for Lehigh County

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.