Grief Therapists in Mill Bay, BC
Hello and welcome! I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor accepting new clients online. I utilize talk therapy and employ different treatment modalities. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, stress and related issues, Trauma, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Self-esteem issues, Relationship issues, Intimate Partner Violence & issues, grief & loss, Mood issues, Anger, Procrastination, behavioural issues, Substance misuse issues, other forms of addictions, phobias. I've also worked successfully with people with Suicidal ideation and non-suicidal self-injury. Do you feel you are stuck? Let us walk together.
Hello and welcome! I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor accepting new clients online. I utilize talk therapy and employ different treatment modalities. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, stress and related issues, Trauma, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Self-esteem issues, Relationship issues, Intimate Partner Violence & issues, grief & loss, Mood issues, Anger, Procrastination, behavioural issues, Substance misuse issues, other forms of addictions, phobias. I've also worked successfully with people with Suicidal ideation and non-suicidal self-injury. Do you feel you are stuck? Let us walk together.
Asking for help can feel scary and struggles such as depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, grief, self esteem, family conflict, work conflict can feel overwhelming and lonely.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor working in Nanaimo and Duncan BC. I've worked as a counsellor for over 15 years in various settings including agencies providing family therapy and parent teen counselling. I am now in private practice and working with individuals and families. I offer a warm, welcoming, calm, non- judgemental, space for you to share your story, your hopes, your fears and struggles. I work with folks who are struggling for a variety of reasons and want to discuss, explore, find solutions for and feel better about their situation.
Asking for help can feel scary and struggles such as depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, grief, self esteem, family conflict, work conflict can feel overwhelming and lonely.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor working in Nanaimo and Duncan BC. I've worked as a counsellor for over 15 years in various settings including agencies providing family therapy and parent teen counselling. I am now in private practice and working with individuals and families. I offer a warm, welcoming, calm, non- judgemental, space for you to share your story, your hopes, your fears and struggles. I work with folks who are struggling for a variety of reasons and want to discuss, explore, find solutions for and feel better about their situation.
With my own life experience, education, training and skills I have helped people with a wide variety of issues: Trauma, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Couple counselling, Grief and loss, Parenting, Blended families, Addiction, Coping, High conflict, Narcissist personalities, Work conflict and Family of origin issues.
I know you already have your own resources and skills to deal with your struggles. My skills and experiences are simply to help you find these resources within you. A person comes to me because they are stuck and lost in stressful worries or getting angry too quickly or frustrated and powerless in conflicts with other. Our work together is for you to find your natural instinct and insights to develop the clarity to move forward. The skills I use to help you are in grounded in Somatic Experiencing, an understanding of the dynamic of your nervous systems and Focusing, a therapy skill to open your clarity and the way to go forward.
With my own life experience, education, training and skills I have helped people with a wide variety of issues: Trauma, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Couple counselling, Grief and loss, Parenting, Blended families, Addiction, Coping, High conflict, Narcissist personalities, Work conflict and Family of origin issues.
I know you already have your own resources and skills to deal with your struggles. My skills and experiences are simply to help you find these resources within you. A person comes to me because they are stuck and lost in stressful worries or getting angry too quickly or frustrated and powerless in conflicts with other. Our work together is for you to find your natural instinct and insights to develop the clarity to move forward. The skills I use to help you are in grounded in Somatic Experiencing, an understanding of the dynamic of your nervous systems and Focusing, a therapy skill to open your clarity and the way to go forward.
We live in a rapidly changing and often unsettled world. Stress, anxiety and depression are common reactions to never ending barrage of the trials of daily life. Our bodies are adapting to these challenges in the best way they know how. Sometimes it's too much. Sometimes we need to ask for support to initiate change or make sense of our situations. 250-589-5500 (text only).
We live in a rapidly changing and often unsettled world. Stress, anxiety and depression are common reactions to never ending barrage of the trials of daily life. Our bodies are adapting to these challenges in the best way they know how. Sometimes it's too much. Sometimes we need to ask for support to initiate change or make sense of our situations. 250-589-5500 (text only).
Kim McCullough
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CAW
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Mill Bay, BC V0R
Waitlist for new clients
Today's world is stressful and it is easy to feel overwhelmed by conflict, stress, and everyday pressures. Let me help you find calm and the ability to cope with your own personal stressors. With 30 years' experience working with people in a variety of roles, I can work with you to discover, investigate, and address the stressors in your life, so you are a better person to yourself and those around you. If you are ready to take these steps, I encourage you to reach out and so we can work together to make the changes you envision in your life.
Today's world is stressful and it is easy to feel overwhelmed by conflict, stress, and everyday pressures. Let me help you find calm and the ability to cope with your own personal stressors. With 30 years' experience working with people in a variety of roles, I can work with you to discover, investigate, and address the stressors in your life, so you are a better person to yourself and those around you. If you are ready to take these steps, I encourage you to reach out and so we can work together to make the changes you envision in your life.
Living in today's world is hard and complex. Psychotherapies have also evolved a lot in the past 10 years, and the timing is ripe to heal intergenerational trauma. My approach seeks to meet people where they are at and provide a deep understanding from which change can happen. I've been a therapist for 14 years and retrained in trauma therapies such as EMDR and Somatic Psychotherapy halfway through my career. I have a lot of trust in people's ability to heal and change, having witnessed these profound journeys many times.
Living in today's world is hard and complex. Psychotherapies have also evolved a lot in the past 10 years, and the timing is ripe to heal intergenerational trauma. My approach seeks to meet people where they are at and provide a deep understanding from which change can happen. I've been a therapist for 14 years and retrained in trauma therapies such as EMDR and Somatic Psychotherapy halfway through my career. I have a lot of trust in people's ability to heal and change, having witnessed these profound journeys many times.
Lilypad Counselling and Clinical Supervision
Counsellor, RPC, MPCC-S
Verified Verified
Mill Bay, BC V0R
At Lilypad Counselling our counsellors connect with those who want to be inspired by life, who are seeking help with life overwhelm, stress and relationship issues. We believe the answers you seek are within and it’s our job to guide you to your own inner wisdom. We help you to explore new perspectives, to shine a light in the confusion. In addition to in office sessions, we offer online/video and phone/text/email support. At Lilypad Counselling we can meet your specific needs. Through personal insight and awareness, you can begin to mend relationships and feel lighter, more connected and equipped to manage life's challenges.
At Lilypad Counselling our counsellors connect with those who want to be inspired by life, who are seeking help with life overwhelm, stress and relationship issues. We believe the answers you seek are within and it’s our job to guide you to your own inner wisdom. We help you to explore new perspectives, to shine a light in the confusion. In addition to in office sessions, we offer online/video and phone/text/email support. At Lilypad Counselling we can meet your specific needs. Through personal insight and awareness, you can begin to mend relationships and feel lighter, more connected and equipped to manage life's challenges.
It is my role as a registered clinical counsellor to create an environment of trust and confidence. Each individual has the quintessential need to connect with others, to explore his/her sense of self, and to understand their cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and interpersonal reactions. I provide my clients the guidance to move toward this understanding. Together collaboratively, we work to remove the obstacles that are preventing forward movement towards a more positive fulfilling life. It is my goal, through therapy, to nurture and support my clients and to facilitate positive change.
It is my role as a registered clinical counsellor to create an environment of trust and confidence. Each individual has the quintessential need to connect with others, to explore his/her sense of self, and to understand their cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and interpersonal reactions. I provide my clients the guidance to move toward this understanding. Together collaboratively, we work to remove the obstacles that are preventing forward movement towards a more positive fulfilling life. It is my goal, through therapy, to nurture and support my clients and to facilitate positive change.
When we work together it will be about supporting you in moving out of ways of being that no longer serve you in a helpful way and into a more connected, aware and preferred place. Collaboratively working to understand and shift the impacts that traumatic events have had on your life and building on your energy levels so that you can feel a deeper sense of ease, belonging and happiness. Be it parenting support, family therapy or individual youth and or adult sessions, together we can create a space that upholds your dignity and highlights your intrinsic strengths as we navigate changes together towards a more preferred sense of you.
When we work together it will be about supporting you in moving out of ways of being that no longer serve you in a helpful way and into a more connected, aware and preferred place. Collaboratively working to understand and shift the impacts that traumatic events have had on your life and building on your energy levels so that you can feel a deeper sense of ease, belonging and happiness. Be it parenting support, family therapy or individual youth and or adult sessions, together we can create a space that upholds your dignity and highlights your intrinsic strengths as we navigate changes together towards a more preferred sense of you.
Wanting to create a better life rather than settling for status quo, just getting by while filled with anxiety and feelings of hopeless; coping with excess food, drugs or alcohol. It takes courage and tremendous willingness to begin a path of change and it is an honour and a joy to walk with people on their journey toward wholeness. My work with people often leaves me in awe of the strength of the human spirit as I witness them overcome trauma and self-destructive behaviours and move toward their dreams while embracing their authentic self.
Wanting to create a better life rather than settling for status quo, just getting by while filled with anxiety and feelings of hopeless; coping with excess food, drugs or alcohol. It takes courage and tremendous willingness to begin a path of change and it is an honour and a joy to walk with people on their journey toward wholeness. My work with people often leaves me in awe of the strength of the human spirit as I witness them overcome trauma and self-destructive behaviours and move toward their dreams while embracing their authentic self.
More Therapists Nearby
Carla Mae Leuschen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shawnigan Lake, BC V0R
I work with clients whom wish to push the boundaries of “normal” to uncover & deconstruct the root causes of their suffering. Many of the people that I work with are dealing with major depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and overall frustration with the current state of society and the environment. The clients that I see often present to me with symptoms such as feeling blocked, overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, alone, and powerless in their life. I support clients to transform their pain into strength so that they can live a more fulfilled life.
I work with clients whom wish to push the boundaries of “normal” to uncover & deconstruct the root causes of their suffering. Many of the people that I work with are dealing with major depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and overall frustration with the current state of society and the environment. The clients that I see often present to me with symptoms such as feeling blocked, overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, alone, and powerless in their life. I support clients to transform their pain into strength so that they can live a more fulfilled life.
Do you struggle with past trauma, depression, anxiety, and letting go of hurt and pain? Are you dealing with grief and loss that is overwhelming? I'm here to journey with you as you explore new possibilities for your life. Past hurts, trauma, intrusive thoughts, anxiety, depression do not need to define you. The courage and strength to change is within you, and I consider it a sacred honour to journey with you towards change and freedom.
Do you struggle with past trauma, depression, anxiety, and letting go of hurt and pain? Are you dealing with grief and loss that is overwhelming? I'm here to journey with you as you explore new possibilities for your life. Past hurts, trauma, intrusive thoughts, anxiety, depression do not need to define you. The courage and strength to change is within you, and I consider it a sacred honour to journey with you towards change and freedom.
Marilyn Conner Counselling & Consulting Services
Counsellor, MACP, RCC, MBA, CEC
Verified Verified
Gabriola, BC V0R
I am approachable, insightful, and compassionate and have a special interest in helping people who are managing loss, transitions, and anxiety in their personal or professional lives.
We each have our own story and through a safe and compassionate space, I will support you in gaining the insight and awareness necessary for personal change. It takes courage to make this first step and in choosing to move forward, you have already started. Having grown up as an identical twin, I am keenly aware of the unique challenges, needs, and desire for individuality we all face. With this in mind, and with the understanding that people approach counselling for many different reasons, we will move forward together in a way that best meets your individual needs.
I am approachable, insightful, and compassionate and have a special interest in helping people who are managing loss, transitions, and anxiety in their personal or professional lives.
We each have our own story and through a safe and compassionate space, I will support you in gaining the insight and awareness necessary for personal change. It takes courage to make this first step and in choosing to move forward, you have already started. Having grown up as an identical twin, I am keenly aware of the unique challenges, needs, and desire for individuality we all face. With this in mind, and with the understanding that people approach counselling for many different reasons, we will move forward together in a way that best meets your individual needs.
I work as a Registered Counsellor & Social Worker with over 10 years experience. I offer virtual, outdoor & surf therapy to individuals aged 12+ in Ontario and BC. I'm a settler, originally from Scarborough, and I'm currently living on Vancouver Island (Coast Salish and Nuu-chah-nulth territories). I often work with people experiencing: depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, life transitions, work stress, grief, trauma, & more! I'm particularly passionate about helping people reconnect with nature, and manage trauma. More info: www.steadyandwildcounselling.ca
I work as a Registered Counsellor & Social Worker with over 10 years experience. I offer virtual, outdoor & surf therapy to individuals aged 12+ in Ontario and BC. I'm a settler, originally from Scarborough, and I'm currently living on Vancouver Island (Coast Salish and Nuu-chah-nulth territories). I often work with people experiencing: depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, life transitions, work stress, grief, trauma, & more! I'm particularly passionate about helping people reconnect with nature, and manage trauma. More info: www.steadyandwildcounselling.ca
This can stem from past trauma, abusive relationships, sexual assault, spiritual crisis, patriarchal social conditioning, loss of a loved one, or life transitions.
What a courageous step you're taking, to reach out for help. I honour what you've been through to bring you to this moment. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed with life and trying to "hold it all together", or maybe your needs are falling to the bottom of the priority list. Maybe you notice patterns in your life that keep repeating such as perfectionism, negative self-talk, destructive behaviours, unsatisfying relationships, or mindlessly distracting yourself. If you yearn to: know and trust yourself more deeply, be more gentle and tender with yourself, and feel the freedom to be yourself, I am here to support your journey.
This can stem from past trauma, abusive relationships, sexual assault, spiritual crisis, patriarchal social conditioning, loss of a loved one, or life transitions.
What a courageous step you're taking, to reach out for help. I honour what you've been through to bring you to this moment. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed with life and trying to "hold it all together", or maybe your needs are falling to the bottom of the priority list. Maybe you notice patterns in your life that keep repeating such as perfectionism, negative self-talk, destructive behaviours, unsatisfying relationships, or mindlessly distracting yourself. If you yearn to: know and trust yourself more deeply, be more gentle and tender with yourself, and feel the freedom to be yourself, I am here to support your journey.
You are feeling stuck. You may be navigating some form of life transition such as a recent move, job change, loss of an important relationship, new parenthood, or retirement. Perhaps you are noticing that with this change come feelings of overwhelm, anxiousness, depression and possibly grief. The feelings are real. And they are painful. You feel disconnected from the person you know you want to be. Yet the pain is getting in the way of moving forward. I am here to help you become unstuck.
You are feeling stuck. You may be navigating some form of life transition such as a recent move, job change, loss of an important relationship, new parenthood, or retirement. Perhaps you are noticing that with this change come feelings of overwhelm, anxiousness, depression and possibly grief. The feelings are real. And they are painful. You feel disconnected from the person you know you want to be. Yet the pain is getting in the way of moving forward. I am here to help you become unstuck.
I specialize in issues related to acute and chronic illness, grief/loss and stresses related to life transitions such as shifts in relationships.
Welcome! Reaching out to find support when we're struggling can bring up a lot of feelings. I meet you where you are and join with you in figuring out how to make life's challenges a little lighter. If you are living with anxiety, depression, or navigating a life transition, I would be honoured to support you in working through it. The body is a central focus in my work, and I specialize in experiences of illness and of addiction. I worked in the healthcare and education systems. I have an eclectic professional and academic path that feeds my practice, and I offer talk therapy as well as drama therapy sessions.
I specialize in issues related to acute and chronic illness, grief/loss and stresses related to life transitions such as shifts in relationships.
Welcome! Reaching out to find support when we're struggling can bring up a lot of feelings. I meet you where you are and join with you in figuring out how to make life's challenges a little lighter. If you are living with anxiety, depression, or navigating a life transition, I would be honoured to support you in working through it. The body is a central focus in my work, and I specialize in experiences of illness and of addiction. I worked in the healthcare and education systems. I have an eclectic professional and academic path that feeds my practice, and I offer talk therapy as well as drama therapy sessions.
I have been working as a registered psychologist since 2008. It's important to me to create a safe, caring respectful environment where anyone, no matter who they are, feels welcome. The relationship between us is one of the most important factors in determining how helpful counselling with me will be. Clients often come to me with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, difficulties with life transitions, and grief or loss. We will work together to develop a plan to deal effectively with the issues that bring you to see me. (Can also contact by Fax: 250.984.0859)
I have been working as a registered psychologist since 2008. It's important to me to create a safe, caring respectful environment where anyone, no matter who they are, feels welcome. The relationship between us is one of the most important factors in determining how helpful counselling with me will be. Clients often come to me with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, difficulties with life transitions, and grief or loss. We will work together to develop a plan to deal effectively with the issues that bring you to see me. (Can also contact by Fax: 250.984.0859)
Wise Body Counselling: Keisha Virago
Registered Professional Counsellor - Candidate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cowichan Bay, BC V0R (Online Only)
If you're struggling with repressed trauma, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, or life transitions, these are areas we can work through together.
I help people learn to forgive themselves for the things they had to do in order to survive. I believe that when we feel safe in our body and free from the shackles of our past, we can create our dream reality. By honouring our sensitive nature, and creating a safe space to explore, we can set our inner child free - inviting playfulness, humour, and curiosity to the healing process. We are not what has happened to us, we are who we choose to become. I'm here to help you discover who you truly are on a soul level.
If you're struggling with repressed trauma, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, or life transitions, these are areas we can work through together.
I help people learn to forgive themselves for the things they had to do in order to survive. I believe that when we feel safe in our body and free from the shackles of our past, we can create our dream reality. By honouring our sensitive nature, and creating a safe space to explore, we can set our inner child free - inviting playfulness, humour, and curiosity to the healing process. We are not what has happened to us, we are who we choose to become. I'm here to help you discover who you truly are on a soul level.
Carruthers Counselling & Consulting
Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bowser, BC V0R
I support children and youth around a variety of topics from dealing with divorce, loss, absence of a parent to providing tools for anxiety, etc.
I have been supporting children & youth, and their families for the past 17 years in public education. I facilitate workshops and also do group counselling. I have a strong background in special education, which means I often observe the behaviour(s) of children and youth, collaborate with them and their families, and implement/teach tools for alleviating a child's stress. I have experience as a clinician for Adult Mental Health & Addictions in both inpatient and outpatient care from the hospital. This has benefited early recognition and prevention.
I support children and youth around a variety of topics from dealing with divorce, loss, absence of a parent to providing tools for anxiety, etc.
I have been supporting children & youth, and their families for the past 17 years in public education. I facilitate workshops and also do group counselling. I have a strong background in special education, which means I often observe the behaviour(s) of children and youth, collaborate with them and their families, and implement/teach tools for alleviating a child's stress. I have experience as a clinician for Adult Mental Health & Addictions in both inpatient and outpatient care from the hospital. This has benefited early recognition and prevention.
Hello, my name is Monique Hendricks, and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in B.C. I help people of all ages who are dealing with anxiety, depression, overthinking, self-confidence, grief and loss, and relationship/family challenges. My practice is guided through a trauma-focused lens, and I integrate a variety of counselling approaches depending on your therapy needs. With your consent, I will incorporate aspects of mindfulness and somatic-sensory (physical) awareness into the space of wellness that we create together.
Hello, my name is Monique Hendricks, and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in B.C. I help people of all ages who are dealing with anxiety, depression, overthinking, self-confidence, grief and loss, and relationship/family challenges. My practice is guided through a trauma-focused lens, and I integrate a variety of counselling approaches depending on your therapy needs. With your consent, I will incorporate aspects of mindfulness and somatic-sensory (physical) awareness into the space of wellness that we create together.
I specialize in: trauma and domestic violence; parenting; childhood anxiety and attachment; separation and divorce; co-parenting; child and teen counselling; LGBTQ+; relationship and Gottman therapy; response-based approaches, anti-violence work; anxiety and depression; mental health; grief and loss; suicidal ideation and self-harm.
I am a warmhearted and respectful professional with over 18 years of counselling experience. I offer individual, child, teen, parent & family counselling with a safe, therapeutic, and non-judgmental lens. I use a variety of counselling approaches, such as CBT, Trauma-informed and Psychodynamic Therapy to suit your circumstances, experiences, and preferences to create a respectful and empowering approach to the work together. I hold a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I am a Registered Counsellor Provider with the BC Crime Victim Assistance Program, First Nations Health Authority and Humanacare EAP.
I specialize in: trauma and domestic violence; parenting; childhood anxiety and attachment; separation and divorce; co-parenting; child and teen counselling; LGBTQ+; relationship and Gottman therapy; response-based approaches, anti-violence work; anxiety and depression; mental health; grief and loss; suicidal ideation and self-harm.
I am a warmhearted and respectful professional with over 18 years of counselling experience. I offer individual, child, teen, parent & family counselling with a safe, therapeutic, and non-judgmental lens. I use a variety of counselling approaches, such as CBT, Trauma-informed and Psychodynamic Therapy to suit your circumstances, experiences, and preferences to create a respectful and empowering approach to the work together. I hold a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I am a Registered Counsellor Provider with the BC Crime Victim Assistance Program, First Nations Health Authority and Humanacare EAP.
Elly Boer Counselling & Art Therapy
Counsellor, RCC, DVATI, MC:AT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cumberland, BC V0R
Creativity and an inner sense of knowing exists within each of us, even if you do not identify as artistic. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor and professional art therapist, I offer creative, sensory and experiential tools and activities to help clients tap into insight and knowledge with less effort and more ease.
Creativity and an inner sense of knowing exists within each of us, even if you do not identify as artistic. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor and professional art therapist, I offer creative, sensory and experiential tools and activities to help clients tap into insight and knowledge with less effort and more ease.
Relationships are built at the speed of trust and I believe the relationship created between therapist and client is the foundational component in the therapeutic process. I bring 15 years of experience working with families and individuals in various capacities and create a treatment plan specific to your individual needs. I identify as a female from a mixed ancestry- European/French/Indigenous, and honour the ability to work and play on the traditional lands and territory of the ɬaʔamɩn Peoples. I'm grateful to be able to walk alongside you and support you on your journey.
Relationships are built at the speed of trust and I believe the relationship created between therapist and client is the foundational component in the therapeutic process. I bring 15 years of experience working with families and individuals in various capacities and create a treatment plan specific to your individual needs. I identify as a female from a mixed ancestry- European/French/Indigenous, and honour the ability to work and play on the traditional lands and territory of the ɬaʔamɩn Peoples. I'm grateful to be able to walk alongside you and support you on your journey.
Are you struggling with something? Let's talk about it. I'm here to support individuals and couples with a variety of mental health concerns while providing a holistic approach to health and well-being. We will work together to achieve your goals through non-judgement, skill building, coping strategies and empowerment. I'm here to hep you feel better so you can fully enjoy your life.
Are you struggling with something? Let's talk about it. I'm here to support individuals and couples with a variety of mental health concerns while providing a holistic approach to health and well-being. We will work together to achieve your goals through non-judgement, skill building, coping strategies and empowerment. I'm here to hep you feel better so you can fully enjoy your life.
See more therapy options for Mill Bay
Nearby Grief Counsellors Searches for Mill Bay
- Chemainus
- Cobble Hill
- Cowichan Bay
- Cumberland
- Lake Cowichan
- Lantzville
- Nanoose Bay
- Parksville
- Port Alberni
- Qualicum Beach
- Shawnigan Lake
- Tofino
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.