Grief Therapists in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA

Photo of Ebony Canady, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Ebony Canady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
A graduate of University of California Riverside and Norfolk State University, Ebony is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience treating all age groups in various settings and modalities like EMDR. She is trained and certified to work with grief, intellectual disabilities, and critical incident stress debriefing. She is also comfortable with substance abuse counseling, acute mental illness and crisis intervention as well as family counseling, trauma recovery, and perinatal mental healthcare.
A graduate of University of California Riverside and Norfolk State University, Ebony is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience treating all age groups in various settings and modalities like EMDR. She is trained and certified to work with grief, intellectual disabilities, and critical incident stress debriefing. She is also comfortable with substance abuse counseling, acute mental illness and crisis intervention as well as family counseling, trauma recovery, and perinatal mental healthcare.
(703) 810-7279 View (703) 810-7279
Photo of Restore Counseling & Consulting,LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Restore Counseling & Consulting,LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314
I have extensive experience working with life's transitions, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, addictions, and trauma.
I am aware of the potential setbacks and implications of neglected substance abuse, mental health issues, and their impact if left untreated. While working in a variety of settings, I’ve seen first hand how they affect the individual, community, and the immediate family. I am fully committed to advocate for those in need of the highest quality of treatment services. I am a firm believer that when an individual is given the opportunity to tell his/her story and given a chance to heal and develop effective coping skills, they too, can find a road to restoration.
I have extensive experience working with life's transitions, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, addictions, and trauma.
I am aware of the potential setbacks and implications of neglected substance abuse, mental health issues, and their impact if left untreated. While working in a variety of settings, I’ve seen first hand how they affect the individual, community, and the immediate family. I am fully committed to advocate for those in need of the highest quality of treatment services. I am a firm believer that when an individual is given the opportunity to tell his/her story and given a chance to heal and develop effective coping skills, they too, can find a road to restoration.
(703) 879-3922 View (703) 879-3922
Photo of Kristin Nygaard-Daugherty, Pre-Licensed Professional in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Kristin Nygaard-Daugherty
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA , LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314
With a passion for working with youth and individuals who identify with the LGBTQIA+ community, I have experience with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, self-harm, grief, trauma, ADHD, self-esteem, stress, and adjusting to life transitions.
Taking the leap to find a therapist can feel overwhelming. The thought of talking to a complete stranger about the deepest darkest parts of your mind may feel frightening, but seeking help is something to celebrate. If you are searching for someone to help lighten the load of the weight of the world or even just the thoughts swirling around in your mind, I am here to help.
With a passion for working with youth and individuals who identify with the LGBTQIA+ community, I have experience with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, self-harm, grief, trauma, ADHD, self-esteem, stress, and adjusting to life transitions.
Taking the leap to find a therapist can feel overwhelming. The thought of talking to a complete stranger about the deepest darkest parts of your mind may feel frightening, but seeking help is something to celebrate. If you are searching for someone to help lighten the load of the weight of the world or even just the thoughts swirling around in your mind, I am here to help.
(540) 845-6940 x1 View (540) 845-6940 x1
Photo of Alexandra M. Knezo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Alexandra M. Knezo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
I provide individual and group therapy in a variety of areas including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, ADHD, women's issues, trauma, domestic violence, anger issues, disordered eating, addiction, and grief/loss.
Live the life you choose! Let me assist you in recognizing your own courage and transform frustration into strength! I utilize an integrative approach based on a strengths model of treatment. I have been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psycho-dynamic, interpersonal, solutions-focused, family systems, and empowerment. I will work with you to create a treatment plan that best meets your needs. We will work together to address challenges you are facing and identify solutions to cope. In addition, I will coordinate with other providers such as psychiatrists and physicians who are on your wellness team.
I provide individual and group therapy in a variety of areas including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, ADHD, women's issues, trauma, domestic violence, anger issues, disordered eating, addiction, and grief/loss.
Live the life you choose! Let me assist you in recognizing your own courage and transform frustration into strength! I utilize an integrative approach based on a strengths model of treatment. I have been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psycho-dynamic, interpersonal, solutions-focused, family systems, and empowerment. I will work with you to create a treatment plan that best meets your needs. We will work together to address challenges you are facing and identify solutions to cope. In addition, I will coordinate with other providers such as psychiatrists and physicians who are on your wellness team.
(703) 935-5821 View (703) 935-5821
Photo of Sibila Jahangiri, Pre-Licensed Professional in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Sibila Jahangiri
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314
Did you struggle to build essential life skills due to growing up without much support or adequate psychological nurturance? Or you were born in a healthy and loving family, but life did not turn as planned? Feeling stuck in life, having lost its purpose, feeling lonely and unable to build or maintain healthy relationships, going through a loss (of a loved one, an opportunity, a job, an ability, or even a dream), all of these can take your energy and prevent you from living your best life. Turning a crisis into an opportunity can be a painful process.
Did you struggle to build essential life skills due to growing up without much support or adequate psychological nurturance? Or you were born in a healthy and loving family, but life did not turn as planned? Feeling stuck in life, having lost its purpose, feeling lonely and unable to build or maintain healthy relationships, going through a loss (of a loved one, an opportunity, a job, an ability, or even a dream), all of these can take your energy and prevent you from living your best life. Turning a crisis into an opportunity can be a painful process.
(540) 845-6940 x147 View (540) 845-6940 x147
Photo of Rashida Latef, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Rashida Latef
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Whether your process is delicate or vigorous, I facilitate a safe, client-centered, decolonial practice. My praxis is informed by being a psychotherapist, community organizer. and yoga teacher. I have extensive experience serving and affirming diverse communities, values, and needs on a range of topics from trauma, loss, life adjustments, relationships (including friendships and sisterhood), workplace belonging and equity, and institutional abuse. You will be challenged, and although your growing pains may be uncomfortable, you will not be alone, unsupported, or bored!
Whether your process is delicate or vigorous, I facilitate a safe, client-centered, decolonial practice. My praxis is informed by being a psychotherapist, community organizer. and yoga teacher. I have extensive experience serving and affirming diverse communities, values, and needs on a range of topics from trauma, loss, life adjustments, relationships (including friendships and sisterhood), workplace belonging and equity, and institutional abuse. You will be challenged, and although your growing pains may be uncomfortable, you will not be alone, unsupported, or bored!
(703) 215-2026 View (703) 215-2026
Photo of Lisa Staab, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Lisa Staab
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
I bring personal experience to the table, caring for an elderly parent that has dementia and navigating the struggles associated with memory loss and the responsibilities associated with being a caregiver.
I am a Master’s Level trained, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist with a background in Geriatric counseling and Family Counseling. My background includes in-depth training and experience with multiple therapeutic modalities. Clinically and personally, I bring a broad-range of experience to my practice. My work can be described as being inclusive of individual and group psychotherapy with people from varying backgrounds, age, races, genders, and sexual preferences.
I bring personal experience to the table, caring for an elderly parent that has dementia and navigating the struggles associated with memory loss and the responsibilities associated with being a caregiver.
I am a Master’s Level trained, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist with a background in Geriatric counseling and Family Counseling. My background includes in-depth training and experience with multiple therapeutic modalities. Clinically and personally, I bring a broad-range of experience to my practice. My work can be described as being inclusive of individual and group psychotherapy with people from varying backgrounds, age, races, genders, and sexual preferences.
(703) 337-3302 View (703) 337-3302
Photo of Dr. Anita Payne- Comprehensive Clinical Solutions, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Dr. Anita Payne- Comprehensive Clinical Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314
I am here to help you no matter what you are going through! With over 20 years experience including expertise with Anxiety Anger Management, Depression Domestic Violence, Trauma Treatment (PTSD), Narcissism, Gender Issues, Phase of life changes, Grief and Loss Life Stressors, Sexual Issues Mood disorders Relationship challenges, couples and families.
My mission is to provide the highest quality and compassionate behavior health care to our clients, families and people in need through a comprehensive arrangement of services and effective clinical care. If you have found yourself feeling down lately and nothing seems to be going your way, making it difficult to lift your spirits, It might be time to seek help from a licensed professional. My Individual Therapy sessions help clients develop positive attitudes towards life’s most complex and challenging circumstances. All sessions are tailored to client's individual needs.
I am here to help you no matter what you are going through! With over 20 years experience including expertise with Anxiety Anger Management, Depression Domestic Violence, Trauma Treatment (PTSD), Narcissism, Gender Issues, Phase of life changes, Grief and Loss Life Stressors, Sexual Issues Mood disorders Relationship challenges, couples and families.
My mission is to provide the highest quality and compassionate behavior health care to our clients, families and people in need through a comprehensive arrangement of services and effective clinical care. If you have found yourself feeling down lately and nothing seems to be going your way, making it difficult to lift your spirits, It might be time to seek help from a licensed professional. My Individual Therapy sessions help clients develop positive attitudes towards life’s most complex and challenging circumstances. All sessions are tailored to client's individual needs.
(301) 273-1964 View (301) 273-1964
Photo of Inner Calm Therapy Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Inner Calm Therapy Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MA, MS, LMT
Verified Verified
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314
Grief.
Innercalm is a safe and welcoming space for individuals to explore their innermost thoughts and emotions, allowing them to find peace and clarity within themselves. Through a combination mindful walking, somatic and attuning to nature practices, clients are able to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, true self and spiritual wellbeing. The hope is to help clients navigate through life's challenges and stresses, promoting self-awareness and personal growth. I use expressive art, nature and walking to foster an environment where clients are able to delve into their inner world and uncover the root causes of their struggles.
Grief.
Innercalm is a safe and welcoming space for individuals to explore their innermost thoughts and emotions, allowing them to find peace and clarity within themselves. Through a combination mindful walking, somatic and attuning to nature practices, clients are able to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, true self and spiritual wellbeing. The hope is to help clients navigate through life's challenges and stresses, promoting self-awareness and personal growth. I use expressive art, nature and walking to foster an environment where clients are able to delve into their inner world and uncover the root causes of their struggles.
(808) 353-4232 View (808) 353-4232
Photo of Christy Heyn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Christy Heyn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Therapy is a space to develop strengths and resources, as well as examine problems and pain. Clients work on both their strengths and struggles in my practice. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with twelve years of experience working in a variety of settings within the mental health field to include residential/educational programs for at-risk adolescents and in private practice working with individuals and families facing so many of life's challenges. I believe in working together to address the distress you're experiencing (depression, anxiety, trauma, or inter-personal issues) and to build resilience and restore hope.
Therapy is a space to develop strengths and resources, as well as examine problems and pain. Clients work on both their strengths and struggles in my practice. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with twelve years of experience working in a variety of settings within the mental health field to include residential/educational programs for at-risk adolescents and in private practice working with individuals and families facing so many of life's challenges. I believe in working together to address the distress you're experiencing (depression, anxiety, trauma, or inter-personal issues) and to build resilience and restore hope.
(540) 845-6940 View (540) 845-6940
Photo of Joardan Thornton, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Joardan Thornton
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
I am a Supervisee in Social Work, practicing under Tierra Hereford, LCSW. I believe in creating a calm and inviting space to help navigate you through your process of healing. My goal is to build rapport through compassion, empathy, and care throughout this therapeutic process. Therapy is a collaborative effort; with the tools I provide, we can facilitate a space that not only encourages growth but also motivates you for long-term change. Some issues that I work primarily with are concerns around sex and couples.
I am a Supervisee in Social Work, practicing under Tierra Hereford, LCSW. I believe in creating a calm and inviting space to help navigate you through your process of healing. My goal is to build rapport through compassion, empathy, and care throughout this therapeutic process. Therapy is a collaborative effort; with the tools I provide, we can facilitate a space that not only encourages growth but also motivates you for long-term change. Some issues that I work primarily with are concerns around sex and couples.
(757) 210-7262 View (757) 210-7262
Photo of Lourdes San Pedro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Lourdes San Pedro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314
My role as a therapist is to provide a safe, judgment-free and compassionate environment for clients to be understood and supported in their personal growth. I enjoy working with clients from all walks of life. Whether you are interested in moving forward from the past, feel overwhelmed by the stress of the day-to-day, worry about the future, or ir you are struggling with effects of trauma, depression, anxiety or stress, I am here for you.
My role as a therapist is to provide a safe, judgment-free and compassionate environment for clients to be understood and supported in their personal growth. I enjoy working with clients from all walks of life. Whether you are interested in moving forward from the past, feel overwhelmed by the stress of the day-to-day, worry about the future, or ir you are struggling with effects of trauma, depression, anxiety or stress, I am here for you.
(571) 554-5091 View (571) 554-5091
Photo of Carolyn Stephanie Alvarado, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Carolyn Stephanie Alvarado
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual (fluent Spanish Speaker) Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia and provide Individual counseling to young adults and adults. My work as a counselor reflects my compassionate nature and desire to be authentic, and develop impactful relationships with clients. Core to my approach is being person-centered and culturally competent/sensitive.
I am a bilingual (fluent Spanish Speaker) Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia and provide Individual counseling to young adults and adults. My work as a counselor reflects my compassionate nature and desire to be authentic, and develop impactful relationships with clients. Core to my approach is being person-centered and culturally competent/sensitive.
(540) 845-6940 x1 View (540) 845-6940 x1
Photo of Healthy Minds Therapy in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Healthy Minds Therapy
Verified Verified
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314
Accepting NEW patients! for medication management AND therapy! Our mission at Healthy Minds Therapy is inspiring thriving, healthier communities by making therapy modern and accessible. Dedicated to wellness and mental wealth. We help anxious individuals, provide relief for discouraged parents and help distant couples get connected. We provide individual therapy across the lifespan. As well as couples and family therapy. We also offer group therapy! There is something for everybody. Healthier days are here! Serving VA, MD, & DC!
Accepting NEW patients! for medication management AND therapy! Our mission at Healthy Minds Therapy is inspiring thriving, healthier communities by making therapy modern and accessible. Dedicated to wellness and mental wealth. We help anxious individuals, provide relief for discouraged parents and help distant couples get connected. We provide individual therapy across the lifespan. As well as couples and family therapy. We also offer group therapy! There is something for everybody. Healthier days are here! Serving VA, MD, & DC!
(540) 215-8569 x1 View (540) 215-8569 x1
Photo of Margaret Moira Kappler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Margaret Moira Kappler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Not Accepting New Patients. Please reach out and see if there is another good fit at the practice. HMT has many wonderful clinicians! I am comfortable working with many different populations with varying levels of issues. Depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and military specific stressors are a small cross-section of the issues I treat. I am a sex-positive, kink informed and trauma informed clinician. I am a laid-back person with a robust, and admittedly sometimes immature, sense of humor who is a big believer in radical acceptance. You can expect these things, and many more during our sessions.
Not Accepting New Patients. Please reach out and see if there is another good fit at the practice. HMT has many wonderful clinicians! I am comfortable working with many different populations with varying levels of issues. Depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and military specific stressors are a small cross-section of the issues I treat. I am a sex-positive, kink informed and trauma informed clinician. I am a laid-back person with a robust, and admittedly sometimes immature, sense of humor who is a big believer in radical acceptance. You can expect these things, and many more during our sessions.
(540) 845-6940 View (540) 845-6940
Photo of Maxine Iida, Resident in Counseling in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Maxine Iida
Resident in Counseling, BS, MA, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
You want to live a full life but feel that anxiety, depression, or you past are getting in the way. You struggle with trying to make everything happen in day-to-day life, but feel depleted and stressed. Life has many ups and downs, and perfectionism or unrealistic expectations can rob us of the joy in the moment. Therapy can provide a space to become clear on what you want from life and can provide tools to begin living out those values today!
You want to live a full life but feel that anxiety, depression, or you past are getting in the way. You struggle with trying to make everything happen in day-to-day life, but feel depleted and stressed. Life has many ups and downs, and perfectionism or unrealistic expectations can rob us of the joy in the moment. Therapy can provide a space to become clear on what you want from life and can provide tools to begin living out those values today!
(540) 845-6940 x1 View (540) 845-6940 x1
Photo of Christopher Boler, Resident in Counseling in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Christopher Boler
Resident in Counseling, MSEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Are some of your past coping skills not having the same effect? In our sessions, we will focus on being present with our mind and body. Through this gained awareness, we will co-construct meaningful experiences. Sometimes we may need the space or support to tune into our needs, body and its reactions. Therapy can be a place to learn and cultivate that. I use an integrative approach to counseling and therapy. This way, I tailor make our treatment to meet your goals. I'm trained in LGBTQ+ affirming counseling, CBT, Person Centered, Gestalt and Narrative Therapies.
Are some of your past coping skills not having the same effect? In our sessions, we will focus on being present with our mind and body. Through this gained awareness, we will co-construct meaningful experiences. Sometimes we may need the space or support to tune into our needs, body and its reactions. Therapy can be a place to learn and cultivate that. I use an integrative approach to counseling and therapy. This way, I tailor make our treatment to meet your goals. I'm trained in LGBTQ+ affirming counseling, CBT, Person Centered, Gestalt and Narrative Therapies.
(571) 418-6281 View (571) 418-6281
Photo of Melissa Long, Resident in Counseling in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Melissa Long
Resident in Counseling
Verified Verified
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Melissa is a compassionate and skilled therapist, who is dedicated to helping individuals on their journey to healing and growth. As a Resident in Counseling, she bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise in addressing a wide range of mental health challenges. She has experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, relationships, and bipolar disorder and she provides a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotions and experiences. With a warm and inclusive approach, this therapist warmly welcomes LGBTQ+ clients, understanding the unique struggles they may face.
Melissa is a compassionate and skilled therapist, who is dedicated to helping individuals on their journey to healing and growth. As a Resident in Counseling, she bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise in addressing a wide range of mental health challenges. She has experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, relationships, and bipolar disorder and she provides a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotions and experiences. With a warm and inclusive approach, this therapist warmly welcomes LGBTQ+ clients, understanding the unique struggles they may face.
(703) 546-9090 View (703) 546-9090
Photo of Ann-Marie Wingerter, Resident in Counseling in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Ann-Marie Wingerter
Resident in Counseling, MA, LPC-R, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Counseling becomes less intimidating if you think of it like going to a doctor for medication: if something works, keep doing it! If not, then say so and we can find something else for you to try. My ideal client is someone who is ready to take an open, honest look at themself and their situation. Improved mental health and/or interpersonal relationships are attainable! Assessing where you are and where you want to be is the first step. I work with clients on behavior modification, social skills training, anxiety, depression, interpersonal issues, and life transitions. Life can be hard, but you don't have to figure things out alone.
Counseling becomes less intimidating if you think of it like going to a doctor for medication: if something works, keep doing it! If not, then say so and we can find something else for you to try. My ideal client is someone who is ready to take an open, honest look at themself and their situation. Improved mental health and/or interpersonal relationships are attainable! Assessing where you are and where you want to be is the first step. I work with clients on behavior modification, social skills training, anxiety, depression, interpersonal issues, and life transitions. Life can be hard, but you don't have to figure things out alone.
(540) 845-6940 x1 View (540) 845-6940 x1
Photo of Elizabeth A Perry, LPC Intern in Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA
Elizabeth A Perry
LPC Intern, MEd, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eisenhower East, Alexandria, VA 22314
Trying to find a supportive, affirming therapist can be a daunting experience for anyone. especially when you are LGBTQ+. Maybe you're thinking, "Will they really accept me for who I really am? Can I trust them not to reject me?" I know it takes courage to reach out for help. I offer a listening, non-judgmental ear in a safe, caring environment. We can unpack the issues that are making you feel overwhelmed and unable to cope. Together we will work to identify what is most important to you, and ways to move forward.
Trying to find a supportive, affirming therapist can be a daunting experience for anyone. especially when you are LGBTQ+. Maybe you're thinking, "Will they really accept me for who I really am? Can I trust them not to reject me?" I know it takes courage to reach out for help. I offer a listening, non-judgmental ear in a safe, caring environment. We can unpack the issues that are making you feel overwhelmed and unable to cope. Together we will work to identify what is most important to you, and ways to move forward.
(540) 845-6940 x1 View (540) 845-6940 x1

See more therapy options for Eisenhower East, Alexandria


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.