Grief Therapists in Surrey, BC

Photo of Kiran K. Sangha, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Kiran K. Sangha
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V4A
Kiran has a lively, warm and engaging personality and brings enthusiasm and passion to her work. She is committed to working with individuals who are facing difficulties in their lives, such as with anxiety, depression, trauma, immigration or cultural impacts, interpersonal relationships and bereavement. Kiran has over ten years of clinical experience in the mental health field working with children, adults and older adults from various cultural and religious backgrounds. She has a strong ability to put clients at ease very quickly through her gentle and transparent approach.
Kiran has a lively, warm and engaging personality and brings enthusiasm and passion to her work. She is committed to working with individuals who are facing difficulties in their lives, such as with anxiety, depression, trauma, immigration or cultural impacts, interpersonal relationships and bereavement. Kiran has over ten years of clinical experience in the mental health field working with children, adults and older adults from various cultural and religious backgrounds. She has a strong ability to put clients at ease very quickly through her gentle and transparent approach.
(431) 244-6230 View (431) 244-6230
Photo of Sharon Bulger, RCC, MA, Counsellor
Sharon Bulger
Counsellor, RCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3Z
While I am happy to come alongside clients with whatever they are navigating, some prominent areas of experience include life transitions, ADHD, anxiety, depression, life-threatening illnesses, medical trauma and diagnosis, grief, parenting and marriage and family dynamics.
Hello! I am passionate about the work I do with clients because I believe we all deserve to live our best lives, and to do so, we need to find our best selves. My desire to help others achieve healing and wellness is longstanding.
While I am happy to come alongside clients with whatever they are navigating, some prominent areas of experience include life transitions, ADHD, anxiety, depression, life-threatening illnesses, medical trauma and diagnosis, grief, parenting and marriage and family dynamics.
Hello! I am passionate about the work I do with clients because I believe we all deserve to live our best lives, and to do so, we need to find our best selves. My desire to help others achieve healing and wellness is longstanding.
(450) 390-2206 View (450) 390-2206
Photo of Dr. Paulo Matos, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Paulo Matos
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3R  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Psychologist with a combined 25+ years of education and experience in psychotherapy. I have extensive experience helping with diverse concerns including anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, and life transitions. I specialize in two areas: helping people overcome trauma/PTSD in individual therapy and improving relationships through couples therapy. I have a special interest in working with military veterans, first responders, public safety personnel, and health care professionals. I have a doctorate (Ph.D.) in Counselling Psychology and master’s degrees from Harvard University (Ed.M.) and UBC (M.A.).
I am a Registered Psychologist with a combined 25+ years of education and experience in psychotherapy. I have extensive experience helping with diverse concerns including anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, and life transitions. I specialize in two areas: helping people overcome trauma/PTSD in individual therapy and improving relationships through couples therapy. I have a special interest in working with military veterans, first responders, public safety personnel, and health care professionals. I have a doctorate (Ph.D.) in Counselling Psychology and master’s degrees from Harvard University (Ed.M.) and UBC (M.A.).
(855) 910-8444 View (855) 910-8444
Photo of Judi Arthur, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Judi Arthur
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V4A
I have advanced training in Bereavement, Indigenous Focusing Therapy & Complex Trauma, Play Therapy, Burnout, Attachment Somatic Therapy, and Eating Disorder Prevention & Recovery.
I'm passionate about empowering individuals who have lived through traumatic experiences, are facing grief & loss, or struggling with a health crisis to reorient themselves towards a healing pathway & restore their resiliency! My counselling practice is informed by over 15 years of experience supporting patients in the health care system, & focuses on promoting nurturing, healing, & balancing practices. I offer a welcoming space for individuals who are feeling stuck or living with grief, trauma, eating disorders, transition, & chronic illness. I provide trauma-informed, culturally responsive, gender-affirming, queer-friendly care.
I have advanced training in Bereavement, Indigenous Focusing Therapy & Complex Trauma, Play Therapy, Burnout, Attachment Somatic Therapy, and Eating Disorder Prevention & Recovery.
I'm passionate about empowering individuals who have lived through traumatic experiences, are facing grief & loss, or struggling with a health crisis to reorient themselves towards a healing pathway & restore their resiliency! My counselling practice is informed by over 15 years of experience supporting patients in the health care system, & focuses on promoting nurturing, healing, & balancing practices. I offer a welcoming space for individuals who are feeling stuck or living with grief, trauma, eating disorders, transition, & chronic illness. I provide trauma-informed, culturally responsive, gender-affirming, queer-friendly care.
(289) 312-8294 View (289) 312-8294
Photo of Kiran Dosanjh, BSc , MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Kiran Dosanjh
Counsellor, BSc , MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V4N
Over the past five years I have worked as a high school counsellor, ICBC and grief and loss counsellor.
Hello and thank you for visiting my page! My name is Kiran Dosanjh. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) and I want to support you on your journey towards wellness. Life is a journey of ups and downs and, sometimes we may feel stuck and hopeless. Sometimes we just need someone to listen, support, and guide us in life. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, stress, or the demands of everyday life, parenting, or grieving the loss of a loved one; I can be there to support you and help you navigate through this difficult time of your life.
Over the past five years I have worked as a high school counsellor, ICBC and grief and loss counsellor.
Hello and thank you for visiting my page! My name is Kiran Dosanjh. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) and I want to support you on your journey towards wellness. Life is a journey of ups and downs and, sometimes we may feel stuck and hopeless. Sometimes we just need someone to listen, support, and guide us in life. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, stress, or the demands of everyday life, parenting, or grieving the loss of a loved one; I can be there to support you and help you navigate through this difficult time of your life.
(782) 482-0094 View (782) 482-0094
Photo of Sara Jaswal - Sara Jaswal | Grief & Loss Practitioner, Coach, RTC, EDU, Counsellor
Sara Jaswal | Grief & Loss Practitioner
Counsellor, Coach, RTC, EDU
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
I know firsthand how heavy grief feels and how isolating it can be.
Hi! If you've found your way here, it’s likely because you're navigating the challenging terrain of grief. I'm sorry for your loss, and I'm so glad you're here. Grief is a deeply personal journey, and it’s not just about losing someone you love but also encompasses non- death losses such as life transitions, chronic health conditions, and other significant changes. You may feel overwhelmed by intense emotions, uncertainty about the future and not sure how to move forward. My goal is to support you in exploring all the ways grief is impacting your life and working towards finding meaning and purpose even when life feels uncertain.
I know firsthand how heavy grief feels and how isolating it can be.
Hi! If you've found your way here, it’s likely because you're navigating the challenging terrain of grief. I'm sorry for your loss, and I'm so glad you're here. Grief is a deeply personal journey, and it’s not just about losing someone you love but also encompasses non- death losses such as life transitions, chronic health conditions, and other significant changes. You may feel overwhelmed by intense emotions, uncertainty about the future and not sure how to move forward. My goal is to support you in exploring all the ways grief is impacting your life and working towards finding meaning and purpose even when life feels uncertain.
(249) 559-1424 View (249) 559-1424
Photo of Trevor Olson, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Trevor Olson
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V4A
I provide therapy for first responders and individuals who have experienced grief and trauma.
I try to help individuals find their inner worth and strengths. I believe that people can continue to learn, grow and change. It is important for you to feel comfortable with the therapist you decide to see. One of the things that I value the most within therapy is the importance of building an honest and genuine relationship. I try to meet people where they are at and offer services from a strengths-based and positive approach.
I provide therapy for first responders and individuals who have experienced grief and trauma.
I try to help individuals find their inner worth and strengths. I believe that people can continue to learn, grow and change. It is important for you to feel comfortable with the therapist you decide to see. One of the things that I value the most within therapy is the importance of building an honest and genuine relationship. I try to meet people where they are at and offer services from a strengths-based and positive approach.
(778) 828-0853 View (778) 828-0853
Photo of Elsje Hannah - Healing Place Counselling Centre, MA, CCS, RCC-ACS, Counsellor
Healing Place Counselling Centre
Counsellor, MA, CCS, RCC-ACS
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3S
I have specializations in terminal illness, prolonged chronic illness and bereavement.
Welcome to the counselling services at Celtic Place and Healing Place. Counselling provides a space and opportunity for you to explore thoughts and feelings, behaviours and relationships that may be troubling you or causing difficulty in your life. Counselling also offers a source of support in times of crisis and during difficult times such as you may be experiencing now. Some of the ways in which counselling can be beneficial is through bringing deeper personal insight, helping find better ways of coping with problems and it also can help you improve your relationships.
I have specializations in terminal illness, prolonged chronic illness and bereavement.
Welcome to the counselling services at Celtic Place and Healing Place. Counselling provides a space and opportunity for you to explore thoughts and feelings, behaviours and relationships that may be troubling you or causing difficulty in your life. Counselling also offers a source of support in times of crisis and during difficult times such as you may be experiencing now. Some of the ways in which counselling can be beneficial is through bringing deeper personal insight, helping find better ways of coping with problems and it also can help you improve your relationships.
(778) 200-2911 View (778) 200-2911
Photo of Sonya Randle - Sonya Randle Counselling, MAABS, MTC, RCS, BsCN, Counsellor
Sonya Randle Counselling
Counsellor, MAABS, MTC, RCS, BsCN
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3W
Do you struggle with loneliness, anxiety, self doubt, shame or anger? As a Master Counsellor and Supervisor I am here to invite every part of you to be present so you can live fully. My passion is to create a safe space for you to be heard and understood. You will experience the safety to process some of the roots of struggles in a non judgmental environment. I bring my years of experience with a successful practice and working through my own personal struggles with anxiety, grief, codependency and self esteem from a difficult past. I offer supervision to new and existing counsellors who want growth.
Do you struggle with loneliness, anxiety, self doubt, shame or anger? As a Master Counsellor and Supervisor I am here to invite every part of you to be present so you can live fully. My passion is to create a safe space for you to be heard and understood. You will experience the safety to process some of the roots of struggles in a non judgmental environment. I bring my years of experience with a successful practice and working through my own personal struggles with anxiety, grief, codependency and self esteem from a difficult past. I offer supervision to new and existing counsellors who want growth.
(604) 670-8529 View (604) 670-8529
Photo of Pavneet Sandhu, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Pavneet Sandhu
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V4A
I work with individuals experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, relational issues, and trauma-related stress. I specifically work with young adults, adults, and seniors. I use Person-Centered, Mindfulness-based, Narrative, Gestalt, EMDR and CBT approaches to help my clients to resolve challenging situations that are resulting in their mental health difficulties. I provide a safe space to explore emotional, mental, physical, and social aspects that clients are struggling with. I am aware that each client has their own unique healing process and I consider each client within the context of the culture and values.
I work with individuals experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, relational issues, and trauma-related stress. I specifically work with young adults, adults, and seniors. I use Person-Centered, Mindfulness-based, Narrative, Gestalt, EMDR and CBT approaches to help my clients to resolve challenging situations that are resulting in their mental health difficulties. I provide a safe space to explore emotional, mental, physical, and social aspects that clients are struggling with. I am aware that each client has their own unique healing process and I consider each client within the context of the culture and values.
(548) 800-1800 View (548) 800-1800
Photo of Heather Pattern, MA, RCC, MTA, Counsellor
Heather Pattern
Counsellor, MA, RCC, MTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V4A
With compassion, I can help you develop strategies for managing stress and life transitions, support your healing from past hurts, process parenting issues, support your journey through grief and loss, address anxiety and depression and create substance use goals.
Currently taking new clients online and in person. Through an empathic and relationship approach, I work to empower others to process challenges and identify greater personal meaning. Whether navigating life transitions, struggling with mental health concerns, or seeking greater self-awareness, I create a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgement. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology and an Accredited Music Therapist (MTA), bringing over 24 years of dedicated service to the therapy field.
With compassion, I can help you develop strategies for managing stress and life transitions, support your healing from past hurts, process parenting issues, support your journey through grief and loss, address anxiety and depression and create substance use goals.
Currently taking new clients online and in person. Through an empathic and relationship approach, I work to empower others to process challenges and identify greater personal meaning. Whether navigating life transitions, struggling with mental health concerns, or seeking greater self-awareness, I create a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgement. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology and an Accredited Music Therapist (MTA), bringing over 24 years of dedicated service to the therapy field.
(647) 559-1931 View (647) 559-1931
Photo of Charlene Monita Forbes, MA, RCC, BA, INHC, RYT, Counsellor
Charlene Monita Forbes
Counsellor, MA, RCC, BA, INHC, RYT
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3S
Life by its very nature is uncertain and comes with challenges, life transitions, grief, unexpected loss, illness, and change, and I am here to support and help make sense and help resolve the anxieties and issues that come along with it.
It is my goal to help, heal and empower clients through the challenges and uncertainties of life within a safe empathetic, culturally responsive, open, therapeutic alliance. My tailored approach is premised on making clients feel comfortable, validated, and understood and to help make sense of and resolve the anxieties and issues clients face so they can achieve their goals and live a peaceful and content life. My specialties include Anxiety, Depression, Self Esteem, Stress Management, Life Coaching, Mindfulness-Based Techniques, Health and Wellness, Couples, Separation/Divorce, Trauma, Eating Issues & Emotional Empowerment.
Life by its very nature is uncertain and comes with challenges, life transitions, grief, unexpected loss, illness, and change, and I am here to support and help make sense and help resolve the anxieties and issues that come along with it.
It is my goal to help, heal and empower clients through the challenges and uncertainties of life within a safe empathetic, culturally responsive, open, therapeutic alliance. My tailored approach is premised on making clients feel comfortable, validated, and understood and to help make sense of and resolve the anxieties and issues clients face so they can achieve their goals and live a peaceful and content life. My specialties include Anxiety, Depression, Self Esteem, Stress Management, Life Coaching, Mindfulness-Based Techniques, Health and Wellness, Couples, Separation/Divorce, Trauma, Eating Issues & Emotional Empowerment.
(867) 292-0561 View (867) 292-0561
Photo of Debi Shannon - Debi Shannon Counselling & Consulting, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Debi Shannon Counselling & Consulting
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V4P
As an older adult, I understand first-hand the often overwhelming impact of grief and loss, as well as the ambiguous loss and the difficulties in supporting a loved one who struggles with Alzheimer's Disease.
We all have a fundamental need to connect and to be heard. I believe sharing our struggles and pain is often the first step towards healing. I provide a compassionate and safe space to support clients as they navigate life transitions, immediate and ongoing concerns, and personal growth. You don't have to do it alone. Together we will explore ways to harness your courage for change and work collaboratively, using your strengths, insights and life experiences to fulfill your goals. I am an optimist and believe change is possible at any stage of life. I'm here to help.
As an older adult, I understand first-hand the often overwhelming impact of grief and loss, as well as the ambiguous loss and the difficulties in supporting a loved one who struggles with Alzheimer's Disease.
We all have a fundamental need to connect and to be heard. I believe sharing our struggles and pain is often the first step towards healing. I provide a compassionate and safe space to support clients as they navigate life transitions, immediate and ongoing concerns, and personal growth. You don't have to do it alone. Together we will explore ways to harness your courage for change and work collaboratively, using your strengths, insights and life experiences to fulfill your goals. I am an optimist and believe change is possible at any stage of life. I'm here to help.
(778) 764-1370 View (778) 764-1370
Photo of Gabrielle Grimes, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Gabrielle Grimes
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3R
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the weight of anxiety, grief, or relationship challenges? Whether it’s the pain of abuse, neglect, a difficult separation, family estrangement, or the grief that follows sudden (suicide, homicide, or automobile accident) or unrecognized (health, job, or identity) losses, it’s common to feel unseen or misunderstood. Symptoms of anxiety and depression often arise alongside these challenges, deepening one’s sense of isolation. You don’t have to carry this alone—I’m here to navigate this with you.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the weight of anxiety, grief, or relationship challenges? Whether it’s the pain of abuse, neglect, a difficult separation, family estrangement, or the grief that follows sudden (suicide, homicide, or automobile accident) or unrecognized (health, job, or identity) losses, it’s common to feel unseen or misunderstood. Symptoms of anxiety and depression often arise alongside these challenges, deepening one’s sense of isolation. You don’t have to carry this alone—I’m here to navigate this with you.
(587) 804-8637 View (587) 804-8637
Photo of Cody O'Neill, MSW, BSW, BAACS, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Cody O'Neill
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, BAACS, RSW
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3R  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In the journey of grief, nurturing "continuing bonds" with departed loved ones holds profound significance, offering solace, comfort, and connection in their absence. If you've experienced profound loss (human or pet) and have been grieving for over a year, I offer a unique therapy intended to help reduce sadness and foster a deeper connection with your loved one. Understanding the importance of allowing your mind to adapt to grief's natural rhythm, is part of this process; so we typically wait a year or more post- loss before beginning therapy, honouring the organic flow of grief, and trusting in the brain's innate healing capacity.
In the journey of grief, nurturing "continuing bonds" with departed loved ones holds profound significance, offering solace, comfort, and connection in their absence. If you've experienced profound loss (human or pet) and have been grieving for over a year, I offer a unique therapy intended to help reduce sadness and foster a deeper connection with your loved one. Understanding the importance of allowing your mind to adapt to grief's natural rhythm, is part of this process; so we typically wait a year or more post- loss before beginning therapy, honouring the organic flow of grief, and trusting in the brain's innate healing capacity.
(819) 410-8962 View (819) 410-8962
Photo of Bernard Piprah, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Bernard Piprah
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3R
Life unavoidably throws obstacles in our direction that can threaten our security, challenge our relationships and endanger the achievements we deserve. I can help you and your family navigate through grief, anxiety, depression, relationship conflict and other life stressors. During difficult times constructive help from an open, relatable and skilled registered clinical counsellor (No. 16789) can make a world of a difference towards creating lasting change.
Life unavoidably throws obstacles in our direction that can threaten our security, challenge our relationships and endanger the achievements we deserve. I can help you and your family navigate through grief, anxiety, depression, relationship conflict and other life stressors. During difficult times constructive help from an open, relatable and skilled registered clinical counsellor (No. 16789) can make a world of a difference towards creating lasting change.
(604) 706-2544 View (604) 706-2544
Photo of Jill Craven, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Jill Craven
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3R
Stress levels, anxiety and depression, anger, grief/ loss, feelings of distress and relationships are impacted daily. Counselling can help you to feel physically and emotionally better, you can find relief. By exploring a new understanding of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, and processing your experiences, healing happens. I provide a safe and judgment free environment to encourage clients to explore and process their past and current experiences. I integrate therapy styles, so clients can find healing and strength based on their own preferences. I offer EMDR, CBT, and Mindful based therapies.
Stress levels, anxiety and depression, anger, grief/ loss, feelings of distress and relationships are impacted daily. Counselling can help you to feel physically and emotionally better, you can find relief. By exploring a new understanding of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, and processing your experiences, healing happens. I provide a safe and judgment free environment to encourage clients to explore and process their past and current experiences. I integrate therapy styles, so clients can find healing and strength based on their own preferences. I offer EMDR, CBT, and Mindful based therapies.
(587) 507-5009 View (587) 507-5009
Photo of Donna Cruikshank, MSW, RSW, RCC, Registered Social Worker
Donna Cruikshank
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
Are you experiencing the despair, confusion, and guilt that sometimes follow a loss? This can be the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, the loss of a beloved pet, or the end of a significant relationship. I specialize in grief and loss. I bring over 30 years of experience working with depression, anxiety, and healing traumatic life events. I worked in the palliative care field as a social worker for over 15 years and as a result understand the health system challenges and the roller coaster of emotions that come with waiting for a loved one’s death. I will walk alongside you as you attempt to make sense of life after loss.
Are you experiencing the despair, confusion, and guilt that sometimes follow a loss? This can be the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, the loss of a beloved pet, or the end of a significant relationship. I specialize in grief and loss. I bring over 30 years of experience working with depression, anxiety, and healing traumatic life events. I worked in the palliative care field as a social worker for over 15 years and as a result understand the health system challenges and the roller coaster of emotions that come with waiting for a loved one’s death. I will walk alongside you as you attempt to make sense of life after loss.
(236) 359-5105 View (236) 359-5105
Photo of Brenda Hunt - Brenda Hunt, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Brenda Hunt
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3R
I've spent years working with prospective adoptive parents, adoptive children and their families, as well as children, youth and families who have experienced grief, loss and trauma.
Life is a journey with many ups and downs and sometimes we may feel like we are in a place where we are stuck and feel alone. Sometimes we may just need support in a big decision that we are facing. It can be an extremely difficult place to be when we feel vulnerable and need to reach out for help. Whether you are dealing with the overwhelming stressors and pressures of daily life, parenting or relationship challenges, grief or loss of someone important, or perhaps worried about your your child,I can be there to support and navigate you or your child through this part of your journey in a supportive and non-judgemental environment.
I've spent years working with prospective adoptive parents, adoptive children and their families, as well as children, youth and families who have experienced grief, loss and trauma.
Life is a journey with many ups and downs and sometimes we may feel like we are in a place where we are stuck and feel alone. Sometimes we may just need support in a big decision that we are facing. It can be an extremely difficult place to be when we feel vulnerable and need to reach out for help. Whether you are dealing with the overwhelming stressors and pressures of daily life, parenting or relationship challenges, grief or loss of someone important, or perhaps worried about your your child,I can be there to support and navigate you or your child through this part of your journey in a supportive and non-judgemental environment.
(778) 770-1806 View (778) 770-1806
Photo of Maja Futrell-Frühling, MSc, RTC, Counsellor
Maja Futrell-Frühling
Counsellor, MSc, RTC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3R
Specializing in bereavement, traumatic loss and suicide awareness/support.
If we all could have the option to be supported and heard with our struggles, to be connected and cared for, perhaps our ability to move through them and towards our goals would be different. What is it you wish to shift, where would your life be right now? How can I help you get there? If you are a victim of crime you may be eligible for counselling through CVAP. I am an approved CVAP counsellor.
Specializing in bereavement, traumatic loss and suicide awareness/support.
If we all could have the option to be supported and heard with our struggles, to be connected and cared for, perhaps our ability to move through them and towards our goals would be different. What is it you wish to shift, where would your life be right now? How can I help you get there? If you are a victim of crime you may be eligible for counselling through CVAP. I am an approved CVAP counsellor.
(604) 305-2868 View (604) 305-2868
1
...

See more therapy options for Surrey

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.