Grief Therapists in Edmonton, AB

Photo of Heather Andrew, BA , MSW, RCSW, Registered Social Worker
Heather Andrew
Registered Social Worker, BA , MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
After I completed my own healing from grief and trauma, it became my heart's mission to serve others as they sought healing through professional therapy.
I strive to build meaningful therapeutic relationships based on compassion, empathy and trust. I specialize in therapy with children 10+, youth, and adults who are experiencing symptoms of trauma, grief and loss, anxiety and depression. I work collaboratively with clients and their support network to promote positive growth and change. I recognize that personal growth is challenging and can feel daunting at times. My goal is to create a safe, confidential environment to explore individual strengths, resiliencies and wisdom, and to guide clients on their journey toward healing.
After I completed my own healing from grief and trauma, it became my heart's mission to serve others as they sought healing through professional therapy.
I strive to build meaningful therapeutic relationships based on compassion, empathy and trust. I specialize in therapy with children 10+, youth, and adults who are experiencing symptoms of trauma, grief and loss, anxiety and depression. I work collaboratively with clients and their support network to promote positive growth and change. I recognize that personal growth is challenging and can feel daunting at times. My goal is to create a safe, confidential environment to explore individual strengths, resiliencies and wisdom, and to guide clients on their journey toward healing.
(587) 507-8643 View (587) 507-8643
Photo of Shelby Loomis - Cornerstone Counselling , Psychologist
Cornerstone Counselling
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5N
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.
(587) 851-0929 View (587) 851-0929
Photo of Reena Samra - BIPOC Healing and Wellness Centre, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
BIPOC Healing and Wellness Centre
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6G
BIPOC Healing and Wellness Centre is a specialized service tailored to provide anti-racist, decolonizing, intersectional feminist & culturally-informed therapy to individuals, couples, families & groups who identify as Black, Indigenous & People of Colour (BIPOC) in Alberta. Our centre was born on the idea that racialized folks need & deserve access to healing & wellness supports that are representative of our unique lived experiences, cultures, societal barriers, systemic oppression & marginalization. We specialize in therapy for BIPOC mental health, grief, intergenerational & racial trauma and healing from racism & discrimination.
BIPOC Healing and Wellness Centre is a specialized service tailored to provide anti-racist, decolonizing, intersectional feminist & culturally-informed therapy to individuals, couples, families & groups who identify as Black, Indigenous & People of Colour (BIPOC) in Alberta. Our centre was born on the idea that racialized folks need & deserve access to healing & wellness supports that are representative of our unique lived experiences, cultures, societal barriers, systemic oppression & marginalization. We specialize in therapy for BIPOC mental health, grief, intergenerational & racial trauma and healing from racism & discrimination.
(587) 806-5920 View (587) 806-5920
Photo of Ben Bentum, MA, Psychologist
Ben Bentum
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5W
Many people feel lost in the rhythms and uncertainties of life. Feelings of emptiness, loneliness, hurt, confusion and anxiety can overwhelm our ability to live life deeply. Sometimes our usual patterns of living are no longer working. Other times sudden changes, such as world events, a loss, life transition, trauma, or a diagnosis swamp our emotional resources. The surfacing of past events such as abuse, grief, or accidents may stop us in our tracks. These are just some of the situations that can create barriers to living the life we want, and send us searching for deeper meaning, connection and belonging.
Many people feel lost in the rhythms and uncertainties of life. Feelings of emptiness, loneliness, hurt, confusion and anxiety can overwhelm our ability to live life deeply. Sometimes our usual patterns of living are no longer working. Other times sudden changes, such as world events, a loss, life transition, trauma, or a diagnosis swamp our emotional resources. The surfacing of past events such as abuse, grief, or accidents may stop us in our tracks. These are just some of the situations that can create barriers to living the life we want, and send us searching for deeper meaning, connection and belonging.
(587) 800-9685 View (587) 800-9685
Photo of Kenedy Dowler, MC, CGRS, RPsych, Psychologist
Kenedy Dowler
Psychologist, MC, CGRS, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6W
Loss is a universal experience. However, many of us are ill prepared to deal with the resulting, often conflicting mass of emotions we call grief. While the emotional incompleteness can have a lifelong, cumulatively negative impact on our capacity for happiness, it doesn't have to. The Grief Recovery Method provides the correct action choices that help individuals move beyond the pain, isolation, and loneliness caused by loss of any kind. I strive to provide a safe space within which you as a client can make these choices and move toward healing and recovery.
Loss is a universal experience. However, many of us are ill prepared to deal with the resulting, often conflicting mass of emotions we call grief. While the emotional incompleteness can have a lifelong, cumulatively negative impact on our capacity for happiness, it doesn't have to. The Grief Recovery Method provides the correct action choices that help individuals move beyond the pain, isolation, and loneliness caused by loss of any kind. I strive to provide a safe space within which you as a client can make these choices and move toward healing and recovery.
(825) 601-5652 View (825) 601-5652
Photo of Brittany Zabolotniuk, BA , MA , Registered Provisional Psychologist
Brittany Zabolotniuk
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA , MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6B
Welcome! As a registered provisional psychologist and grief recovery specialist it is an honour to work with you. One of my main passions includes working with grief and loss, utilizing The Grief Recovery Method. I work from a holistic biopsychosocial spiritual lens, focusing on mental/emotional, physical, and spiritual self.
Welcome! As a registered provisional psychologist and grief recovery specialist it is an honour to work with you. One of my main passions includes working with grief and loss, utilizing The Grief Recovery Method. I work from a holistic biopsychosocial spiritual lens, focusing on mental/emotional, physical, and spiritual self.
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Photo of Reena Samra, BSW, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reena Samra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6G
As the founder of BIPOC Healing and Wellness Centre, I specialize in healing from racism, racial trauma & racial grief.
Welcome! I am a trauma therapist with culturally informed, anti-racist & intersectional feminist values. I would be honored to walk through life's difficulties with you through creating a trusting relationship. We can process life experiences, break intergenerational trauma cycles, develop your unique identity, explore values, or set boundaries. Through being more compassionate to yourself, we can build your self worth and heal childhood wounds. I work holistically to support folks to deepen their connections to their mind, body, soul, spirit, emotions & community. I care about creating safer spaces that empower BIPOC mental health.
As the founder of BIPOC Healing and Wellness Centre, I specialize in healing from racism, racial trauma & racial grief.
Welcome! I am a trauma therapist with culturally informed, anti-racist & intersectional feminist values. I would be honored to walk through life's difficulties with you through creating a trusting relationship. We can process life experiences, break intergenerational trauma cycles, develop your unique identity, explore values, or set boundaries. Through being more compassionate to yourself, we can build your self worth and heal childhood wounds. I work holistically to support folks to deepen their connections to their mind, body, soul, spirit, emotions & community. I care about creating safer spaces that empower BIPOC mental health.
(587) 819-0278 View (587) 819-0278
Photo of Christine A Chaffey, MC, CCC, CT, CRS, Counsellor
Christine A Chaffey
Counsellor, MC, CCC, CT, CRS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Trauma and loss are inescapable in life, does not discriminate, significantly impacts individual well-being, and emerges in different symptoms and difficulties.
“A different therapy must be constructed for each client because each has a unique story.” – Irvin D. Yalom. I believe everybody’s story deserves to be heard, and we all have the intrinsic capacity to heal and change. Your presenting concern is as unique as your fingerprint influencing thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Our connections between yesterday and today are roots to be used as foundations to explore new possibilities, personal growth, wisdom and a deeper appreciation of self and others.
Trauma and loss are inescapable in life, does not discriminate, significantly impacts individual well-being, and emerges in different symptoms and difficulties.
“A different therapy must be constructed for each client because each has a unique story.” – Irvin D. Yalom. I believe everybody’s story deserves to be heard, and we all have the intrinsic capacity to heal and change. Your presenting concern is as unique as your fingerprint influencing thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Our connections between yesterday and today are roots to be used as foundations to explore new possibilities, personal growth, wisdom and a deeper appreciation of self and others.
(587) 602-2958 View (587) 602-2958
Photo of Bo Cao, MEng, MPS, CCC, Counsellor
Bo Cao
Counsellor, MEng, MPS, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5N
I am here to support individuals, couples and families if you are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief & loss, emotion management, trauma, and relationships.
Free 15-min virtual meeting! Are you feeling distressed and longing to make a change in your life? Are you struggling with hurtful past wounds or an unendurable present reality? Do you have difficulties in relationships? Are you feeling helpless seeing your kids suffering from mental health issues? Sometimes life hurts and we may struggle. I believe no one is wired to deal with difficulties alone. With a keen spirit and a gentle presence, I hold a safe space to support individuals, couples and families in processing the hard stuff, exploring possibilities, and navigating more authentic pathways to growth and connection.
I am here to support individuals, couples and families if you are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief & loss, emotion management, trauma, and relationships.
Free 15-min virtual meeting! Are you feeling distressed and longing to make a change in your life? Are you struggling with hurtful past wounds or an unendurable present reality? Do you have difficulties in relationships? Are you feeling helpless seeing your kids suffering from mental health issues? Sometimes life hurts and we may struggle. I believe no one is wired to deal with difficulties alone. With a keen spirit and a gentle presence, I hold a safe space to support individuals, couples and families in processing the hard stuff, exploring possibilities, and navigating more authentic pathways to growth and connection.
(587) 816-6369 View (587) 816-6369
Photo of Libby Kostromin, MPS, CCC, Counsellor
Libby Kostromin
Counsellor, MPS, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5W
Hello, and welcome. I am a Certified Canadian Counsellor specialising in individual and group counselling. I work with adolescents (14+), adults and elders experiencing: grief and loss, anxiety, depression, purposelessness, existential angst, spiritual/religious issues and/or abuse, relationship difficulties, work-related stress and burnout, and life transitions relating to career/education, marriage, parenthood, divorce, retirement, ageing and dying. Please see my website for more information: www.libbykostromin.com.
Hello, and welcome. I am a Certified Canadian Counsellor specialising in individual and group counselling. I work with adolescents (14+), adults and elders experiencing: grief and loss, anxiety, depression, purposelessness, existential angst, spiritual/religious issues and/or abuse, relationship difficulties, work-related stress and burnout, and life transitions relating to career/education, marriage, parenthood, divorce, retirement, ageing and dying. Please see my website for more information: www.libbykostromin.com.
(825) 605-4620 View (825) 605-4620
Photo of Lisa McMorrow, MA, CCC, CT, GRS, Counsellor
Lisa McMorrow
Counsellor, MA, CCC, CT, GRS
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5P
Life can present challenges that leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck and unsure of what to do. This may make it difficult to manage or thrive in our daily lives. If this sounds familiar, you do not have to do this alone. I have experience supporting clients through depression, anxiety, life transitions, burnout, addictions, personal growth and grief and loss.
Life can present challenges that leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck and unsure of what to do. This may make it difficult to manage or thrive in our daily lives. If this sounds familiar, you do not have to do this alone. I have experience supporting clients through depression, anxiety, life transitions, burnout, addictions, personal growth and grief and loss.
(825) 601-5734 View (825) 601-5734
Photo of Samantha Dover, MC, CCTP-II, PMH-C, Psychologist
Samantha Dover
Psychologist, MC, CCTP-II, PMH-C
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Waitlist for new clients
I find that I work very well with those who have experienced abuse/trauma at any point in life and those that are suffering from grief and loss.
Waitlist Available - I aim to to provide a space where I sit with, support, and at times, guide others to rediscover their most balanced selves. I specifically choose the word balanced because I understand that we cannot strive for things to be successful, or even happy, all of the time. Life will always present challenges, but I work to help my clients find the strength to meet those challenges when they arrive, to cope and find recovery when those challenges knock us down, and to soak up the moments and sense of contentment that exist when the challenges are not present (or at least are less present).
I find that I work very well with those who have experienced abuse/trauma at any point in life and those that are suffering from grief and loss.
Waitlist Available - I aim to to provide a space where I sit with, support, and at times, guide others to rediscover their most balanced selves. I specifically choose the word balanced because I understand that we cannot strive for things to be successful, or even happy, all of the time. Life will always present challenges, but I work to help my clients find the strength to meet those challenges when they arrive, to cope and find recovery when those challenges knock us down, and to soak up the moments and sense of contentment that exist when the challenges are not present (or at least are less present).
(780) 817-3099 View (780) 817-3099
Photo of Cyndi Millett, MC, Psychologist
Cyndi Millett
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6X
My specialized areas include Trauma-Informed Care, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Grief Recovery Method (GRM), Pragmatic Experiential Therapy-for Couples (PET-C) Level 2, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT).
I see healing as a holistic, sacred process, deserving honour and witness. I value genuine relationships, while inviting humour into the process. I use an integrative approach to support unique needs and healing. I enjoy working with a range of ages and concerns such as anxiety, stress, lifespan adjustments, relationship concerns, parenting, trauma processing, grief processing, self-esteem, mens & women's issues, character development, caregivers support, frontline workers support. I also enjoy supporting people through spiritual crisis, growth, deconstructing, supporting members of clergy, and spiritual consulting.
My specialized areas include Trauma-Informed Care, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Grief Recovery Method (GRM), Pragmatic Experiential Therapy-for Couples (PET-C) Level 2, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT).
I see healing as a holistic, sacred process, deserving honour and witness. I value genuine relationships, while inviting humour into the process. I use an integrative approach to support unique needs and healing. I enjoy working with a range of ages and concerns such as anxiety, stress, lifespan adjustments, relationship concerns, parenting, trauma processing, grief processing, self-esteem, mens & women's issues, character development, caregivers support, frontline workers support. I also enjoy supporting people through spiritual crisis, growth, deconstructing, supporting members of clergy, and spiritual consulting.
(587) 805-0768 View (587) 805-0768
Photo of Melanie Bradley, MC, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Melanie Bradley
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6X
This includes addressing challenges such as grief and loss, anxiety, depression, relational issues, behavioral issues, neurodivergence, and trauma.
I adopt a client-centered and compassionate approach, recognizing my clients as the authorities in their own lives. My role is to assist them in finding solutions that align best with their individual circumstances, enabling them to connect with their inner selves and uncover hidden insights.
This includes addressing challenges such as grief and loss, anxiety, depression, relational issues, behavioral issues, neurodivergence, and trauma.
I adopt a client-centered and compassionate approach, recognizing my clients as the authorities in their own lives. My role is to assist them in finding solutions that align best with their individual circumstances, enabling them to connect with their inner selves and uncover hidden insights.
(587) 800-3661 View (587) 800-3661
Photo of Kristie Bennett, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Kristie Bennett
Registered Provisional Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5J
The sudden loss of my mom in 2015 to cancer was pivotal and life-changing for me - I understand what it means to be heartbroken, overwhelmed and purposeless.
NOW Accepting New Clients! Specializing in midlife women. Are you feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from those you love? Do you struggle to balance family and work pressures? All you know is that this isn't the life or relationships you want. Traumatic experiences, lack of intentional self-care and boundaries can leave us feeling depleted, resentful, and stuck. It doesn't have to be this way. You can find love and happiness. By turning within and discovering what you want, you can start living your best life and cultivate more authentic and meaningful relationships.
The sudden loss of my mom in 2015 to cancer was pivotal and life-changing for me - I understand what it means to be heartbroken, overwhelmed and purposeless.
NOW Accepting New Clients! Specializing in midlife women. Are you feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from those you love? Do you struggle to balance family and work pressures? All you know is that this isn't the life or relationships you want. Traumatic experiences, lack of intentional self-care and boundaries can leave us feeling depleted, resentful, and stuck. It doesn't have to be this way. You can find love and happiness. By turning within and discovering what you want, you can start living your best life and cultivate more authentic and meaningful relationships.
(587) 847-5440 View (587) 847-5440
Photo of Kayla Rubis, BSc OT, MC, Psychologist
Kayla Rubis
Psychologist, BSc OT, MC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
During my 17+ years working in healthcare, I have developed a passion for supporting people who are experiencing difficult life transitions and grief, including end of life.
I am a Registered Psychologist and Canadian Certified Counsellor. I understand that physical and mental health concerns can impact life in various ways. My approach is to provide a non-judgmental space for people to find the root cause of their presenting concerns, while providing practical tools that can be applied immediately towards the change people would like to see in themselves. I have experience working with clients who have borderline personality disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and/or who are experiencing difficulties with life transitions such as with illness, relationships, and grief, including end of life.
During my 17+ years working in healthcare, I have developed a passion for supporting people who are experiencing difficult life transitions and grief, including end of life.
I am a Registered Psychologist and Canadian Certified Counsellor. I understand that physical and mental health concerns can impact life in various ways. My approach is to provide a non-judgmental space for people to find the root cause of their presenting concerns, while providing practical tools that can be applied immediately towards the change people would like to see in themselves. I have experience working with clients who have borderline personality disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and/or who are experiencing difficulties with life transitions such as with illness, relationships, and grief, including end of life.
(587) 802-3650 View (587) 802-3650
Photo of Pinar Bereketoglu, MC, RPsych, Psychologist
Pinar Bereketoglu
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5H
I am passionate about the areas of grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, attachment-related challenges, emotional regulation, and developmental disorders.
Welcome! You’re taking one of the first steps towards healing: finding a therapist! I am a registered psychologist, Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, EMDR clinician, and have almost a decade of experience supporting autistic children. I would be honoured to walk alongside you in your journey toward healing. There are many things in life that can negatively impact our well-being. I believe everyone is worthy of healing and growth and I work from a culturally sensitive and trauma-informed lens to help you get there. I also strive to create a nonjudgmental space where you can feel safe, heard, and accepted.
I am passionate about the areas of grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, attachment-related challenges, emotional regulation, and developmental disorders.
Welcome! You’re taking one of the first steps towards healing: finding a therapist! I am a registered psychologist, Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, EMDR clinician, and have almost a decade of experience supporting autistic children. I would be honoured to walk alongside you in your journey toward healing. There are many things in life that can negatively impact our well-being. I believe everyone is worthy of healing and growth and I work from a culturally sensitive and trauma-informed lens to help you get there. I also strive to create a nonjudgmental space where you can feel safe, heard, and accepted.
(825) 250-8546 View (825) 250-8546
Photo of Shedean Jones Infidelity Childhood Trauma Infertility Addictions, MC, AGRM, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Shedean Jones Infidelity Childhood Trauma Infertility Addictions
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC, AGRM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Thank you for being here. Are you struggling with the pain of a breakup, the loss of a significant relationship, or the impact of infidelity? Do you need help navigating the complexities of infertility, miscarriage, an abortion or fertility treatments? Are you and your partner seeking ways to rebuild trust, enhance communication, and make positive life transitions together? Addressing these issues can lead to profound personal growth and improved relationships, providing a foundation for a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Thank you for being here. Are you struggling with the pain of a breakup, the loss of a significant relationship, or the impact of infidelity? Do you need help navigating the complexities of infertility, miscarriage, an abortion or fertility treatments? Are you and your partner seeking ways to rebuild trust, enhance communication, and make positive life transitions together? Addressing these issues can lead to profound personal growth and improved relationships, providing a foundation for a more authentic and fulfilling life.
(587) 855-4470 View (587) 855-4470
Photo of Carly Bruce, MC, BEd, Psychologist
Carly Bruce
Psychologist, MC, BEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6G
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.
(587) 210-5467 View (587) 210-5467
Photo of Aspen Wellness Centre - Aspen Wellness Centre, MSW RSW, RPysch, CCC
Aspen Wellness Centre
MSW RSW, RPysch, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
When we are experiencing grief, loss, trauma and mental health challenges, it can feel overwhelming. The process of healing is a journey that involves self exploration, personal growth and skill development. Our intention is to guide you on this journey toward physical, mental and emotional wellness. We specialize in treating grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, relationship issues and life transitions. We offer mental health therapy to children 10+, youth, adults, couples and families. Our sessions are available in person or via telehealth so you can access support when and where you need it.
When we are experiencing grief, loss, trauma and mental health challenges, it can feel overwhelming. The process of healing is a journey that involves self exploration, personal growth and skill development. Our intention is to guide you on this journey toward physical, mental and emotional wellness. We specialize in treating grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, relationship issues and life transitions. We offer mental health therapy to children 10+, youth, adults, couples and families. Our sessions are available in person or via telehealth so you can access support when and where you need it.
(587) 851-5681 View (587) 851-5681
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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.