Grief Therapists in Alberta
![Photo of Mercy Maviko - Veneka Therapy & Consulting, MSW, RSW, RCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9d5034f-a8fe-4c99-b928-668ce2d36d0e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Veneka Therapy & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2Z
I have experience working with military and RCMP members and veterans, First Responders, children, adolescents and adults who have endured traumatic experiences, loss/ grief, anxiety and depression.
Painful and terrifying experiences that we experience in childhood as well as in adulthood, can have lasting negative effects on our lives. These experiences often leave us feeling overwhelmed, stuck, isolated and having difficulties managing strong emotions such as anxiety, depression, anger, sadness, shame and guilt. Taking the first step towards addressing these challenges can be anxiety provoking; my role is to join you on this journey towards healing.
I have experience working with military and RCMP members and veterans, First Responders, children, adolescents and adults who have endured traumatic experiences, loss/ grief, anxiety and depression.
Painful and terrifying experiences that we experience in childhood as well as in adulthood, can have lasting negative effects on our lives. These experiences often leave us feeling overwhelmed, stuck, isolated and having difficulties managing strong emotions such as anxiety, depression, anger, sadness, shame and guilt. Taking the first step towards addressing these challenges can be anxiety provoking; my role is to join you on this journey towards healing.
![Photo of Lucy Nesbitt Holistic Trauma Therapy, RTC, CT, BMus, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/752526df-ba7b-447d-962a-b3b1e5ab7b38/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lucy Nesbitt Holistic Trauma Therapy
Counsellor, RTC, CT, BMus
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5H
I am a holistic, creative and somatic oriented counselling therapist who helps clients gently move deeper into their mental health and wellness journey. I typically work with clients to soothe and support their nervous system, integrate and heal trauma, find emotional regulation, heal from grief and loss, and rekindle a sense of agency in life. Whether you're experiencing cognitive, emotional or physical symptoms, my hope is that our work together can offer you a soft place to land and find solace, as well as a chance to metabolize past hurts, and generate new possibilities for ease and agency in your life.
I am a holistic, creative and somatic oriented counselling therapist who helps clients gently move deeper into their mental health and wellness journey. I typically work with clients to soothe and support their nervous system, integrate and heal trauma, find emotional regulation, heal from grief and loss, and rekindle a sense of agency in life. Whether you're experiencing cognitive, emotional or physical symptoms, my hope is that our work together can offer you a soft place to land and find solace, as well as a chance to metabolize past hurts, and generate new possibilities for ease and agency in your life.
![Photo of Kathy Stolson, BSc, MC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ca64a8d-4da4-4e01-8c81-85be0533859c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathy Stolson
Psychologist, BSc, MC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Red Deer, AB T4N
Waitlist for new clients
However the challenges of recovering from traumatic events, managing addiction,anxiety, depression and grief are experienced by many.
I am a registered psychologist and have worked with a diverse clientele over my career. I recognize it can take a tremendous amount of courage to ask for help however, almost everyone can benefit from the opportunity to share and explore in a non judgmental, comfortable setting. This experience can lead to learning new skills, recognizing existing strengths and/or gaining a new perspective. All of which can be helpful in reducing symptoms, discomfort and increase the quality of life.
However the challenges of recovering from traumatic events, managing addiction,anxiety, depression and grief are experienced by many.
I am a registered psychologist and have worked with a diverse clientele over my career. I recognize it can take a tremendous amount of courage to ask for help however, almost everyone can benefit from the opportunity to share and explore in a non judgmental, comfortable setting. This experience can lead to learning new skills, recognizing existing strengths and/or gaining a new perspective. All of which can be helpful in reducing symptoms, discomfort and increase the quality of life.
![Photo of Shelby Loomis - Cornerstone Counselling , Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7552351b-32e6-46d9-b9a8-86b74250a67c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our diverse team of accredited professionals provides a wide range of mental health services for individuals, couples, families, teens, and children who are experiencing a broad range of issues including emotional distress; addictions; trauma, violence, and abuse; relationship issues; coping and behavioural issues; loss and grief; and more.
Cornerstone Counselling is a not-for-profit agency committed to providing professional, affordable, and accessible counselling and mental health services for all Albertans. We offer subsidies and a sliding scale for rates, based upon financial need, to ensure that our counselling services are affordable. We provide secular and faith-based counselling in-person, virtually, and by phone.
Our diverse team of accredited professionals provides a wide range of mental health services for individuals, couples, families, teens, and children who are experiencing a broad range of issues including emotional distress; addictions; trauma, violence, and abuse; relationship issues; coping and behavioural issues; loss and grief; and more.
Cornerstone Counselling is a not-for-profit agency committed to providing professional, affordable, and accessible counselling and mental health services for all Albertans. We offer subsidies and a sliding scale for rates, based upon financial need, to ensure that our counselling services are affordable. We provide secular and faith-based counselling in-person, virtually, and by phone.
![Photo of Kimberly Craig, BA, MSc, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7dfd4c96-e5d9-40de-a8df-babb98bfbd89/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in depression, anxiety, addiction, grief and loss, and life transitions.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or lonely? Are you struggling in your relationships? Are wounds from your past keeping you from moving forward? Asking for help and making changes can be difficult - your courage in reaching out is the first step in moving towards the life you want to live. It is my privilege to walk alongside you as I support you to let go of what is holding you back and to embrace your very best self. I am excited to know you deeply and to and celebrate you as you embark on this journey!
I specialize in depression, anxiety, addiction, grief and loss, and life transitions.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or lonely? Are you struggling in your relationships? Are wounds from your past keeping you from moving forward? Asking for help and making changes can be difficult - your courage in reaching out is the first step in moving towards the life you want to live. It is my privilege to walk alongside you as I support you to let go of what is holding you back and to embrace your very best self. I am excited to know you deeply and to and celebrate you as you embark on this journey!
![Photo of Dr. Naomi Popeski, MA, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01387945-b18d-44e8-9db2-bad7dae0657a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have a PhD in Psychology and work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, mood changes during pregnancy and postpartum.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, and/or pregnancy/postpartum issues? Please know that I am here. I will provide and guide you with strategies to help identify ways of coping and ways of taking back control in your life. You and I together, will work collaboratively in a safe, confidential space to help you feel empowered, learn how to enhance your self-care and build resilience. During our sessions, expect some laughter and some tears and always no judgement. I do offer Couples Counselling to help with relationship issues; whether it is communication breakdown, intimacy issues, infidelity, or external stressors.
I have a PhD in Psychology and work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, mood changes during pregnancy and postpartum.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, and/or pregnancy/postpartum issues? Please know that I am here. I will provide and guide you with strategies to help identify ways of coping and ways of taking back control in your life. You and I together, will work collaboratively in a safe, confidential space to help you feel empowered, learn how to enhance your self-care and build resilience. During our sessions, expect some laughter and some tears and always no judgement. I do offer Couples Counselling to help with relationship issues; whether it is communication breakdown, intimacy issues, infidelity, or external stressors.
![Photo of Christina Larsen, MSW, RCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c335f1e2-de43-4a73-a4a9-45fed4ec0b2a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also have my own journey through loss and healing which has given me an exquisite understanding of the complexities of grief.
My work with people is rooted in the belief that we all have the strength and wisdom within ourselves to make the changes we wish to see. Within the context of a safe and meaningful therapeutic relationship, new ways of being can emerge. Living more fully aligned with our values and increasing our awareness of unhelpful patterns can allow us to live a more meaningful, vibrant, and joyful life. By working collaboratively with you at your own pace, I can support you in expanding your self-awareness and changing the maladaptive beliefs or behaviours that are getting in the way of living the full and rich life that you imagine.
I also have my own journey through loss and healing which has given me an exquisite understanding of the complexities of grief.
My work with people is rooted in the belief that we all have the strength and wisdom within ourselves to make the changes we wish to see. Within the context of a safe and meaningful therapeutic relationship, new ways of being can emerge. Living more fully aligned with our values and increasing our awareness of unhelpful patterns can allow us to live a more meaningful, vibrant, and joyful life. By working collaboratively with you at your own pace, I can support you in expanding your self-awareness and changing the maladaptive beliefs or behaviours that are getting in the way of living the full and rich life that you imagine.
![Photo of Victoria Hebert, MC, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8136f9d-dbdc-4be1-969b-c472c00d2b9c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a local Registered Psychologist and the Director of Heartland Psychology, specializing in the treatment of trauma, grief & loss, anxiety, and depression. In addition to working in private practice, I enjoy teaching in the Master of Counselling program at City University of Seattle as an Associate Faculty member. It was the loss of my mother to cancer six years ago that changed how I viewed the world and led me into working with others in their struggles. I am currently offering in-person and video sessions from our clinic in Fort Saskatchewan.
I am a local Registered Psychologist and the Director of Heartland Psychology, specializing in the treatment of trauma, grief & loss, anxiety, and depression. In addition to working in private practice, I enjoy teaching in the Master of Counselling program at City University of Seattle as an Associate Faculty member. It was the loss of my mother to cancer six years ago that changed how I viewed the world and led me into working with others in their struggles. I am currently offering in-person and video sessions from our clinic in Fort Saskatchewan.
![Photo of Karen Yakimchuk - Karen Yakimchuk | Pure Living Counselling , MC, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a478c1c-e218-4106-8c41-206723cf55df/3/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Yakimchuk | Pure Living Counselling
Counsellor, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2Y
A warm welcome! Are you navigating a life transition, feeling disconnected from yourself and others, or struggling with anxiety/worry that keeps you from living the life you desire? Perhaps you seek to foster a life that aligns with your authentic self, but are unsure where to start? You are not alone. When women encounter adversity, the effects are often multifaceted; creating unbalance, strain on relationships, and impacting overall wellbeing. As a dedicated counsellor, I support women encountering challenges in the areas of anxiety, life transitions, trauma, relationship matters, grief/ loss, and self-discovery.
A warm welcome! Are you navigating a life transition, feeling disconnected from yourself and others, or struggling with anxiety/worry that keeps you from living the life you desire? Perhaps you seek to foster a life that aligns with your authentic self, but are unsure where to start? You are not alone. When women encounter adversity, the effects are often multifaceted; creating unbalance, strain on relationships, and impacting overall wellbeing. As a dedicated counsellor, I support women encountering challenges in the areas of anxiety, life transitions, trauma, relationship matters, grief/ loss, and self-discovery.
![Photo of Emily McDonald, MA, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad20d095-149b-4443-89a5-84e93a516dab/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Emily, and I am dedicated to fostering growth and empowerment with my clients. With expertise in individual, couples, and youth therapy, I use a comprehensive array of therapeutic methods, including Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Couples Therapy (level 1), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Grief Therapy. Beyond clinical techniques, my approach is infused with warmth, compassion, and a touch of humor. These elements are not just additives but key components of my therapeutic approach.
I'm Emily, and I am dedicated to fostering growth and empowerment with my clients. With expertise in individual, couples, and youth therapy, I use a comprehensive array of therapeutic methods, including Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Couples Therapy (level 1), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Grief Therapy. Beyond clinical techniques, my approach is infused with warmth, compassion, and a touch of humor. These elements are not just additives but key components of my therapeutic approach.
![Photo of Celeste Ferguson, MACP, Registered Provisional Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d33c205c-96b4-45ee-8fdb-968d87dd2011/3/320x400.jpeg)
Celeste Ferguson
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6W
I use an integrative approach pulling from different modalities and techniques like Eye Movement and Desensitization (EMDR) therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Grief Recovery Method (GRM), play-based approaches, and Somatic Embodiment to meet the individual needs and goals of my clients.
Wherever you are on your therapeutic journey, welcome. I support children, adolescents, and adults experiencing grief, stress, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, depression, and other challenges that impact daily functioning. I support self-reflection and use concrete tools and strategies to support clients to develop a deeper connection to self and others. I strongly believe in creating a safe and supportive environment that supports healing and that emphasizes clients as the expert of their own life and experiences. If you are wanting a therapist that is gentle, compassionate, but directive when helpful, we may be a good fit.
I use an integrative approach pulling from different modalities and techniques like Eye Movement and Desensitization (EMDR) therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Grief Recovery Method (GRM), play-based approaches, and Somatic Embodiment to meet the individual needs and goals of my clients.
Wherever you are on your therapeutic journey, welcome. I support children, adolescents, and adults experiencing grief, stress, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, depression, and other challenges that impact daily functioning. I support self-reflection and use concrete tools and strategies to support clients to develop a deeper connection to self and others. I strongly believe in creating a safe and supportive environment that supports healing and that emphasizes clients as the expert of their own life and experiences. If you are wanting a therapist that is gentle, compassionate, but directive when helpful, we may be a good fit.
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Each of us is on a sacred journey of becoming – to know and understand ourselves and the stories we find ourselves in. There are seasons in every person's life when we are no longer able to make sense of our stories. We can lose touch with or feel stuck in our stories when we are wounded by painful experiences or past trauma, struggling with relationships, weighed down by grief and loss, or weary with lost purpose and meaning in our lives. What do you do when you find yourself "a stranger in your own story"?
Each of us is on a sacred journey of becoming – to know and understand ourselves and the stories we find ourselves in. There are seasons in every person's life when we are no longer able to make sense of our stories. We can lose touch with or feel stuck in our stories when we are wounded by painful experiences or past trauma, struggling with relationships, weighed down by grief and loss, or weary with lost purpose and meaning in our lives. What do you do when you find yourself "a stranger in your own story"?
![Photo of Kimberly F Hamilton, MC, BEd, RPPsych, SEP, Registered Provisional Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8eb746b9-3405-48f2-9bb4-5c85dc295bc4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly F Hamilton
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC, BEd, RPPsych, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5H (Online Only)
Sometimes it’s the grief of losing a loved one, or a traumatic experience they had.
I believe that our mind, body and spirit hold the key to our emotional wellbeing. Somewhere along the way into adulthood, this connection between the head, the heart, and the body falter and begin to cause us distress. People lose the ability to "trust their gut" or are unable to identify what they are feeling during particular times of loss or conflict. My approach aims to identify where the disconnect is, and work collaboratively to bring all three back into focus. It is said "the longest journey you will ever make is from your head to your heart" and my goal is to support people as they take the steps needed to get there.
Sometimes it’s the grief of losing a loved one, or a traumatic experience they had.
I believe that our mind, body and spirit hold the key to our emotional wellbeing. Somewhere along the way into adulthood, this connection between the head, the heart, and the body falter and begin to cause us distress. People lose the ability to "trust their gut" or are unable to identify what they are feeling during particular times of loss or conflict. My approach aims to identify where the disconnect is, and work collaboratively to bring all three back into focus. It is said "the longest journey you will ever make is from your head to your heart" and my goal is to support people as they take the steps needed to get there.
![Photo of Myrna Isaac Van Veen, MSW, RCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48946052-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Myrna Isaac Van Veen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5M
If you are looking for support for yourself or a family member in facing challenges that impact day-to-day functioning, I can provide this therapeutic support. I will work with you/your family according to your goals and strengths; I can help with strategies and ideas to bolster strengths you already possess. Some of the concerns I can help with include anxiety, depression, bereavement, trauma, addictions, relationship issues, stress, and life adjustments.
If you are looking for support for yourself or a family member in facing challenges that impact day-to-day functioning, I can provide this therapeutic support. I will work with you/your family according to your goals and strengths; I can help with strategies and ideas to bolster strengths you already possess. Some of the concerns I can help with include anxiety, depression, bereavement, trauma, addictions, relationship issues, stress, and life adjustments.
![Photo of Salvatore Durante, MEd, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b058f1a-f34b-4b75-99b5-a01d39a6a53a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Registered Psychologist who provides individual counselling to adults, in the areas of work-life stress, trauma, difficulties managing emotions and troubling thoughts, body concerns, identity, relationship problems, communication difficulties, guilt-shame, grief, and perfectionism.
I am a Registered Psychologist who provides individual counselling to adults, in the areas of work-life stress, trauma, difficulties managing emotions and troubling thoughts, body concerns, identity, relationship problems, communication difficulties, guilt-shame, grief, and perfectionism.
![Photo of Michelle R. Gartner-Mall, MA, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3df487de-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My specialization is working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing grief and loss.
At times anxiety, depression and/or trauma may impede an individual's natural ability to cope. I believe when a safe and supportive environment is created, individuals may openly explore their struggles and find healthier ways of coping. I have many years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families regarding development, disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders, and brain injury/stroke. For the past 10 years, I have specialized in supporting sexual and gender diverse children, youth, and families.
My specialization is working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing grief and loss.
At times anxiety, depression and/or trauma may impede an individual's natural ability to cope. I believe when a safe and supportive environment is created, individuals may openly explore their struggles and find healthier ways of coping. I have many years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families regarding development, disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders, and brain injury/stroke. For the past 10 years, I have specialized in supporting sexual and gender diverse children, youth, and families.
![Photo of Carly Bruce, MC, BEd, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b784c49-9f5d-4ad4-b544-35ba7847bac3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize therapy interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Person-centered, mindfulness and The Grief Recovery Method®.
Are you looking to move beyond what's plaguing you and walk in freedom and peace? Would you like to gain tools and techniques to be able to conquer your presenting issues? I believe that with insight, clarity, and acceptance, you can learn better self-awareness and take steps towards healing. I provide a safe environment for you to look at unhelpful thoughts and beliefs, losses, and take actions that can help lead you towards healing and feeling lighter.
I utilize therapy interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Person-centered, mindfulness and The Grief Recovery Method®.
Are you looking to move beyond what's plaguing you and walk in freedom and peace? Would you like to gain tools and techniques to be able to conquer your presenting issues? I believe that with insight, clarity, and acceptance, you can learn better self-awareness and take steps towards healing. I provide a safe environment for you to look at unhelpful thoughts and beliefs, losses, and take actions that can help lead you towards healing and feeling lighter.
![Photo of Katrina Shaw, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4ebeedd-7a97-4829-a10a-0bbfd54b637b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience working with a variety of client challenges, including relationship challenges (e.g. family conflict, polyamory/open, infidelity, sexuality, attachment patterns), anxiety, depression, identity concerns, life purpose, and transition. I have specialized experience in suicide bereavement, and my predominant areas of practice include grief, attachment, and trauma. My training in somatic attachment is rooted in rewiring the patterning of our interpersonal relationships, which directly impacts how we emotionally process and behave within these relationships.
I have experience working with a variety of client challenges, including relationship challenges (e.g. family conflict, polyamory/open, infidelity, sexuality, attachment patterns), anxiety, depression, identity concerns, life purpose, and transition. I have specialized experience in suicide bereavement, and my predominant areas of practice include grief, attachment, and trauma. My training in somatic attachment is rooted in rewiring the patterning of our interpersonal relationships, which directly impacts how we emotionally process and behave within these relationships.
![Photo of Rita Ann Martino - Rita Martino Psychotherapy, CCPA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38aede6b-fd81-4c1b-bcdd-4c9abd025f5f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rita Martino Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, CCPA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5N
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I have been counselling for 25 years. I work with individuals, couples, groups, and families; offering trauma and grief based EMDR and Somatic Experiencing. My other specialties include pre-marital, CBT, solution focused, experiential, suicidality, depression and anxiety, addictions, and crisis and faith.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I have been counselling for 25 years. I work with individuals, couples, groups, and families; offering trauma and grief based EMDR and Somatic Experiencing. My other specialties include pre-marital, CBT, solution focused, experiential, suicidality, depression and anxiety, addictions, and crisis and faith.
![Photo of Justine Elliot, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0dd0b95f-b5b3-4a8d-aec8-ca9d31f26302/3/320x400.jpeg)
Justine Elliot
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Waitlist for new clients
I am a member of the College of Alberta Psychologists, Psychologists’ Association of Alberta, The Grief Recovery Institute, and the Canadian Association for Play Therapy.
I value authenticity and enjoy bringing humor, generosity, and evidence-based practices to my clients. My therapeutic approach is integrative in which I use a variety of techniques and approaches to customize therapy to individual needs. I believe healing is achieved in relationships and strive to build supportive and safe connections with my clients. I enjoy working with individuals facing any life struggle at any age but I am particularly passionate about supporting children and parents impacted by traumatic loss.
I am a member of the College of Alberta Psychologists, Psychologists’ Association of Alberta, The Grief Recovery Institute, and the Canadian Association for Play Therapy.
I value authenticity and enjoy bringing humor, generosity, and evidence-based practices to my clients. My therapeutic approach is integrative in which I use a variety of techniques and approaches to customize therapy to individual needs. I believe healing is achieved in relationships and strive to build supportive and safe connections with my clients. I enjoy working with individuals facing any life struggle at any age but I am particularly passionate about supporting children and parents impacted by traumatic loss.
See more therapy options for Alberta
Grief Counsellors
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.