Grief Therapists in Markham, ON

Photo of Lily Zayed, BSc, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Lily Zayed
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6C
Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, trauma, or loss, I’m here to guide and support you every step of the way.
Does anxiety make it hard to enjoy life? Do you find yourself constantly worrying or feeling tense? Living with anxiety can feel exhausting, like there’s a weight you can’t shake that keeps you from feeling calm and present. Or maybe you’ve been through a difficult experience that still affects you, even if it happened years ago. Trauma can leave you feeling on edge, unable to trust, or haunted by memories that just won’t go away, making everyday life feel like a struggle. You may feel trapped by constant worry, haunted by difficult experiences, or left alone in grief after a significant loss.
Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, trauma, or loss, I’m here to guide and support you every step of the way.
Does anxiety make it hard to enjoy life? Do you find yourself constantly worrying or feeling tense? Living with anxiety can feel exhausting, like there’s a weight you can’t shake that keeps you from feeling calm and present. Or maybe you’ve been through a difficult experience that still affects you, even if it happened years ago. Trauma can leave you feeling on edge, unable to trust, or haunted by memories that just won’t go away, making everyday life feel like a struggle. You may feel trapped by constant worry, haunted by difficult experiences, or left alone in grief after a significant loss.
(289) 512-2485 View (289) 512-2485
Photo of Evan Frith, Pre-Licensed Professional
Evan Frith
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3P
My life experiences as a husband, father, business & church leader, and volunteer, along with life events of job loss, community change, moves, and chronic health issues offer an empathic basis of support for you.
Hi, I'm Evan, and I support individuals and couples who feel like life circumstances have left you stuck. Grief, anxiety, depression or perhaps even trauma have brought you to this point, the result of circumstances that range from a life of injustices to a specific event that has left you seeking support. You want to understand why you feel the way you do, and heal the pieces of you that hurt. For some, these truths have led to behaviors that don't reflect the real you, and you long for them to stop.
My life experiences as a husband, father, business & church leader, and volunteer, along with life events of job loss, community change, moves, and chronic health issues offer an empathic basis of support for you.
Hi, I'm Evan, and I support individuals and couples who feel like life circumstances have left you stuck. Grief, anxiety, depression or perhaps even trauma have brought you to this point, the result of circumstances that range from a life of injustices to a specific event that has left you seeking support. You want to understand why you feel the way you do, and heal the pieces of you that hurt. For some, these truths have led to behaviors that don't reflect the real you, and you long for them to stop.
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Photo of Marisol Cartagena - Marisol Cartagena | New Hope Grief Centre, MDiv, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Marisol Cartagena | New Hope Grief Centre
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MDiv
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L6C
Helping people cope with grief in a healthy and helpful manner is our passion.
Do you struggle with grief that affects your ability to function? Do you feel lost on how to get through the day after the loss of someone you love? Do you hope the pain can get better? Lighter? Now more than ever, people are feeling heartbroken, stuck, and overwhelmed about how to cope with grief. Not taking time for yourself to process and manage your loss can lead to additional stress and problems to your emotional, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. We believe there is hope and answers to finding a way to live life after a loss.
Helping people cope with grief in a healthy and helpful manner is our passion.
Do you struggle with grief that affects your ability to function? Do you feel lost on how to get through the day after the loss of someone you love? Do you hope the pain can get better? Lighter? Now more than ever, people are feeling heartbroken, stuck, and overwhelmed about how to cope with grief. Not taking time for yourself to process and manage your loss can lead to additional stress and problems to your emotional, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. We believe there is hope and answers to finding a way to live life after a loss.
(289) 724-3563 View (289) 724-3563
Photo of Yandong (Carol) Xiang, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Yandong (Carol) Xiang
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3R  (Online Only)
I am here to support you if you are struggling with depression and anxiety disorders, grief and bereavement, and the impact of past traumas (such as sexual assault, physical assault, MVA, and childhood abuse). If you lost your loved one or a pet and are going through grief and bereavement or if you are experiencing current life stressors and need to speak with a professional to learn how to cope, I am also here to support you.
I am here to support you if you are struggling with depression and anxiety disorders, grief and bereavement, and the impact of past traumas (such as sexual assault, physical assault, MVA, and childhood abuse). If you lost your loved one or a pet and are going through grief and bereavement or if you are experiencing current life stressors and need to speak with a professional to learn how to cope, I am also here to support you.
(289) 778-0183 View (289) 778-0183
Photo of Rachelle Watson - Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L6B  (Online Only)
My areas of practice include emotion dysregulation (BPD and bipolar disorder), depression and anxiety, and grief and loss.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
My areas of practice include emotion dysregulation (BPD and bipolar disorder), depression and anxiety, and grief and loss.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
(289) 806-5137 View (289) 806-5137
Photo of Suzie Quan, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Suzie Quan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3R
I have a specialty in grief and can support individuals in their caregiving, grief and bereavement journeys.
Life can present many different challenges. Some days can be more difficult than others. If you are experiencing feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, loss or loneliness, I am here for support. Whether the challenges include past pain, present stressors or concerns for your future, I can help you navigate through your days, explore ways to regain control of your life and create a better future with healthy relationships. I believe in every individual’s intrinsic worth and innate ability to tap into their strengths and rise out of life’s challenges. I am here to help you find your joy again.
I have a specialty in grief and can support individuals in their caregiving, grief and bereavement journeys.
Life can present many different challenges. Some days can be more difficult than others. If you are experiencing feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, loss or loneliness, I am here for support. Whether the challenges include past pain, present stressors or concerns for your future, I can help you navigate through your days, explore ways to regain control of your life and create a better future with healthy relationships. I believe in every individual’s intrinsic worth and innate ability to tap into their strengths and rise out of life’s challenges. I am here to help you find your joy again.
(289) 274-5590 View (289) 274-5590
Photo of Jennifer Emanoilidis, HBSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jennifer Emanoilidis
Registered Social Worker, HBSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3P  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have dedicated my work to the field of mental health, and have provided therapeutic interventions in relation to grief, loss and bereavement, mood and anxiety disorders, trauma/PTSD, schizophrenia, first episode psychosis, and forensic social work.
Life can be difficult, unpredictable, and overwhelming at times. Therapy can assist with reestablishing and developing skills and resources to better manage and cope when facing life's challenges. I would like to help you to realize your personal goals through open communication and the establishment of a respectful therapeutic relationship. I strive to work with individuals to take full advantage of their own internal coping strategies towards achieving balance and improved quality of life. I provide psycho-educational support and supportive counselling to adolescents, adults and their families.
I have dedicated my work to the field of mental health, and have provided therapeutic interventions in relation to grief, loss and bereavement, mood and anxiety disorders, trauma/PTSD, schizophrenia, first episode psychosis, and forensic social work.
Life can be difficult, unpredictable, and overwhelming at times. Therapy can assist with reestablishing and developing skills and resources to better manage and cope when facing life's challenges. I would like to help you to realize your personal goals through open communication and the establishment of a respectful therapeutic relationship. I strive to work with individuals to take full advantage of their own internal coping strategies towards achieving balance and improved quality of life. I provide psycho-educational support and supportive counselling to adolescents, adults and their families.
(289) 799-3521 View (289) 799-3521
Photo of May Li, MSW, RP, Registered Social Worker
May Li
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RP
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3R
I have been working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationships and a wide range of other issues for 19 years.
Meeting your searching eyes, my heart feels the pain. I ask myself, what I could offer? As human, we inevitably deal with pain, loss, sadness, anger, anxiety, depression --- I might not be able to feel the deep pain you are experiencing, but I am here, ready to go through it with you and know it will be overcome. I also know when the waves of pain subside, we always find treasures left behind. Life doesn’t mean to survive, but to thrive. Challenges help us to expand our heart, our view, our belief in ourselves, and make us grow. It is often not easy. But you are here, ready to meet it courageously, aren't you?
I have been working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationships and a wide range of other issues for 19 years.
Meeting your searching eyes, my heart feels the pain. I ask myself, what I could offer? As human, we inevitably deal with pain, loss, sadness, anger, anxiety, depression --- I might not be able to feel the deep pain you are experiencing, but I am here, ready to go through it with you and know it will be overcome. I also know when the waves of pain subside, we always find treasures left behind. Life doesn’t mean to survive, but to thrive. Challenges help us to expand our heart, our view, our belief in ourselves, and make us grow. It is often not easy. But you are here, ready to meet it courageously, aren't you?
(289) 210-7356 View (289) 210-7356
Photo of Sanjay Mathew, RP (Q), BComm, MDiv, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sanjay Mathew
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q), BComm, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
Life is a journey. Often in this journey, challenges from our past and present hinder us from living life to our full potential. Let us journey together to navigate these challenges so that we can live our lives according to our values. Using spiritually integrated psychotherapy, I facilitate a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can be true to yourself. I have experience working in various hospitals in and around Toronto with various client populations focusing on mental health, palliative care, grief support, living with life limiting/altering illness and long-term care clients.
Life is a journey. Often in this journey, challenges from our past and present hinder us from living life to our full potential. Let us journey together to navigate these challenges so that we can live our lives according to our values. Using spiritually integrated psychotherapy, I facilitate a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can be true to yourself. I have experience working in various hospitals in and around Toronto with various client populations focusing on mental health, palliative care, grief support, living with life limiting/altering illness and long-term care clients.
(289) 277-8502 View (289) 277-8502
Briana Gregoris
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MTA, MMT, BFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
As a music therapist and registered psychotherapist, my areas of focus includes: Children, teens, life-limiting illnesses, grief, anxiety.
Therapy can look different depending on your needs and goals. I provide therapy that offers conversation and creativity to provide a holistic approach. Whether that looks like writing a song, playing instruments, finding your voice, or having an honest talk, my goal is to help people heal and grow. I believe in person-centered care and a non-judgmental stance in therapy. I have compassion for people going through hard times and use my psychotherapeutic skills to help them work through them.
As a music therapist and registered psychotherapist, my areas of focus includes: Children, teens, life-limiting illnesses, grief, anxiety.
Therapy can look different depending on your needs and goals. I provide therapy that offers conversation and creativity to provide a holistic approach. Whether that looks like writing a song, playing instruments, finding your voice, or having an honest talk, my goal is to help people heal and grow. I believe in person-centered care and a non-judgmental stance in therapy. I have compassion for people going through hard times and use my psychotherapeutic skills to help them work through them.
(289) 806-5094 View (289) 806-5094
Photo of Bonnie Lam, RP, MPS, OAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist
Bonnie Lam
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MPS, OAMHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3P
I work with diverse clients experiencing grief, trauma, addictions recovery, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and pregnancy and infant loss.
Are you experiencing challenges that seem too big to navigate on your own? My name is Bonnie and I want to journey with you. We all experience seasons in life where challenges can appear like a mountain in front of us. I want to work with you to navigate this terrain, to find new paths to help you move beyond the challenges.
I work with diverse clients experiencing grief, trauma, addictions recovery, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and pregnancy and infant loss.
Are you experiencing challenges that seem too big to navigate on your own? My name is Bonnie and I want to journey with you. We all experience seasons in life where challenges can appear like a mountain in front of us. I want to work with you to navigate this terrain, to find new paths to help you move beyond the challenges.
(289) 670-3535 View (289) 670-3535
Photo of Stephen Craig Ashley, RP, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Stephen Craig Ashley
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6B
I work with clients struggling with anxiety, anger, chronic illness/pain, depression, grief, loss, life transitions, self-esteem, and stress.
I am a therapist who is passionate about working with my clients to achieve their personal goals, whether they are facing personal difficulties, life challenges, life transitions, or looking for personal growth and self-improvement. I take a client-centred and solutions focused approach and believe in working together with each of my clients to find the effective strategies and solutions that work best for them.
I work with clients struggling with anxiety, anger, chronic illness/pain, depression, grief, loss, life transitions, self-esteem, and stress.
I am a therapist who is passionate about working with my clients to achieve their personal goals, whether they are facing personal difficulties, life challenges, life transitions, or looking for personal growth and self-improvement. I take a client-centred and solutions focused approach and believe in working together with each of my clients to find the effective strategies and solutions that work best for them.
(289) 210-4760 View (289) 210-4760
Photo of Appoline Lydia Nimbeshaho, RP, MDiv, BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Appoline Lydia Nimbeshaho
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP, MDiv, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
Creating a safe environment where clients feel empowered to share their stories is at the heart of my practice. My therapy approach is trauma-informed and person-centered, combining evidence-based modalities to meet each client's needs. I have experience in supporting clients from diverse backgrounds who have experienced trauma, PTSD, grief, chronic stress, chronic anger, depression, anxiety, suicide ideations, Relationship issues, and life transitions. Together, we can work towards gaining independence in managing your wellness. I provide personalized care that is unique to you.
Creating a safe environment where clients feel empowered to share their stories is at the heart of my practice. My therapy approach is trauma-informed and person-centered, combining evidence-based modalities to meet each client's needs. I have experience in supporting clients from diverse backgrounds who have experienced trauma, PTSD, grief, chronic stress, chronic anger, depression, anxiety, suicide ideations, Relationship issues, and life transitions. Together, we can work towards gaining independence in managing your wellness. I provide personalized care that is unique to you.
(289) 274-7332 View (289) 274-7332
Photo of Olfat Sakr, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Olfat Sakr
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3P  (Online Only)
” I believe that our faith and/or spirituality play an important role in helping us find meaning and purpose while navigating loss, pain, and the struggles we face in life.
My third culture kid (TCK) upbringing nurtured in me an interest in cross-cultural dialogue and interfaith work, and I eventually became passionate about peacebuilding. I facilitated cross-cultural dialogue among university students from different countries and worked with unaccompanied refugee youth from various African countries. This has equipped me with the ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds. Inner peace is essential for peaceful relationships with others, and I learned this after witnessing the trauma of the revolution and its aftermath.
” I believe that our faith and/or spirituality play an important role in helping us find meaning and purpose while navigating loss, pain, and the struggles we face in life.
My third culture kid (TCK) upbringing nurtured in me an interest in cross-cultural dialogue and interfaith work, and I eventually became passionate about peacebuilding. I facilitated cross-cultural dialogue among university students from different countries and worked with unaccompanied refugee youth from various African countries. This has equipped me with the ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds. Inner peace is essential for peaceful relationships with others, and I learned this after witnessing the trauma of the revolution and its aftermath.
(226) 781-3842 View (226) 781-3842
Photo of Angela Colangelo, MA, RP, RMFT, Registered Psychotherapist
Angela Colangelo
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6E
I also help individuals in the areas of depression, stress, grief/ loss.
Relationships fulfill and sustain us. Sometimes we are challenged to grow and change so that we may strengthen and deepen these relationships. At these moments we may feel afraid, confused or at a loss for what to do. Therapy is about asking for guidance as we begin to explore and accept change. I work with the belief that we all share a common emotional experience despite the differences in the way we choose to express ourselves. As every issue is unique, I offer my clients the opportunity to tell their story in their own way.
I also help individuals in the areas of depression, stress, grief/ loss.
Relationships fulfill and sustain us. Sometimes we are challenged to grow and change so that we may strengthen and deepen these relationships. At these moments we may feel afraid, confused or at a loss for what to do. Therapy is about asking for guidance as we begin to explore and accept change. I work with the belief that we all share a common emotional experience despite the differences in the way we choose to express ourselves. As every issue is unique, I offer my clients the opportunity to tell their story in their own way.
(289) 212-6947 View (289) 212-6947
Photo of Michelle McMinassian, MSW, RSW, LCSW-Ca, Registered Social Worker
Michelle McMinassian
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, LCSW-Ca
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3P
My goal is to support people who are coping with challenges that can deter them from feeling balanced and comfortable. I am skilled at providing support to adolescents and adults coping with anxiety concerns, low moods, as well as end of life/ grief concerns. I hope to provide helpful tools and strategies so you can create significant impactful change. With an open mind, both you and I can build a foundation that gives you strength even when you may feel your weakest.
My goal is to support people who are coping with challenges that can deter them from feeling balanced and comfortable. I am skilled at providing support to adolescents and adults coping with anxiety concerns, low moods, as well as end of life/ grief concerns. I hope to provide helpful tools and strategies so you can create significant impactful change. With an open mind, both you and I can build a foundation that gives you strength even when you may feel your weakest.
(289) 274-9331 View (289) 274-9331
Photo of Emily Davison, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Emily Davison
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
Are you feeling uncertain, anxious, or overwhelmed? That’s okay - that's where I come in! I'm a Social Worker with 10 years experience in non-profit, social service, and healthcare spaces. I work with children, teens, and adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, loss/ grief, life transitions, and stress. With me you’ll find warmth, curiosity, empathy, compassion, and humor. In a space where you'll be heard and validated, we'll build a strong foundation built on trust. Together, we can find the tools to help you get "unstuck" and move forward.
Are you feeling uncertain, anxious, or overwhelmed? That’s okay - that's where I come in! I'm a Social Worker with 10 years experience in non-profit, social service, and healthcare spaces. I work with children, teens, and adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, loss/ grief, life transitions, and stress. With me you’ll find warmth, curiosity, empathy, compassion, and humor. In a space where you'll be heard and validated, we'll build a strong foundation built on trust. Together, we can find the tools to help you get "unstuck" and move forward.
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Photo of Kristina Katsoras, RP , Registered Psychotherapist
Kristina Katsoras
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3R
My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, open-ended, and collaborative. I have a high capacity to stay present with you in your darkest and most difficult moments. I trust you to move at your own pace, and find your way as I walk beside and support you. I'm here for you if you're ready to go deep in your healing. I'm a good resource if you're starting to notice that your relationships are not working, no matter how hard you try and how much effort you put into them. I have experience supporting through infertility and pregnancy loss, deep grief, and recovery from trauma, particularly emotional neglect and abuse.
My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, open-ended, and collaborative. I have a high capacity to stay present with you in your darkest and most difficult moments. I trust you to move at your own pace, and find your way as I walk beside and support you. I'm here for you if you're ready to go deep in your healing. I'm a good resource if you're starting to notice that your relationships are not working, no matter how hard you try and how much effort you put into them. I have experience supporting through infertility and pregnancy loss, deep grief, and recovery from trauma, particularly emotional neglect and abuse.
(365) 602-2478 View (365) 602-2478
Photo of Monica Lau, RPq, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Monica Lau
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RPq, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3P
I will support you in mourning, changing & rebuilding after tragedy through deep exploration, create meaning & for some, psychedelic prep & integration.
Experiencing loss in life is 100% going to happen. This could be a death, loss of a relationship, a friendship, a pet. Sometimes you can see it coming and wonder if there is any way to stop it. Other times you're blindsided. Now your world feels unstable or $h!t is upside down. Navigating or preparing for loss is isolating & may make you feel and do all sorts of confusing things. You may be trying to emerge from this with a deeper understanding of yourself, improve your relationships, find confidence in your direction in life, restore a sense of safety/stability in the world or just cope with what is happening. Either way, I'm here.
I will support you in mourning, changing & rebuilding after tragedy through deep exploration, create meaning & for some, psychedelic prep & integration.
Experiencing loss in life is 100% going to happen. This could be a death, loss of a relationship, a friendship, a pet. Sometimes you can see it coming and wonder if there is any way to stop it. Other times you're blindsided. Now your world feels unstable or $h!t is upside down. Navigating or preparing for loss is isolating & may make you feel and do all sorts of confusing things. You may be trying to emerge from this with a deeper understanding of yourself, improve your relationships, find confidence in your direction in life, restore a sense of safety/stability in the world or just cope with what is happening. Either way, I'm here.
(647) 370-1778 View (647) 370-1778
Photo of Catherine Chan, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Catherine Chan
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3P  (Online Only)
I bring to you my training and expertise as a Clinical Social Worker and Consultant, lived experience in freeing from the bondage of oppression, grief, and loss, the joy of parenting, intimate relationship, personal and professional connectedness, and most of all, track record in helping to make a difference in the lives of people I serve.
Need a breakthrough? Stand at a crossroad? Wish to take a second look at your road map? Wonder about your dreams and hopes? Want to become the best you can be? Worry about someone? Feel lonely? Exhausted? Anxious? Depressed? Angry? Vulnerable? Are any of these images filling up your space? Do you want some caring, respectful, and inspirational professional support for de-stressing yourself?
I bring to you my training and expertise as a Clinical Social Worker and Consultant, lived experience in freeing from the bondage of oppression, grief, and loss, the joy of parenting, intimate relationship, personal and professional connectedness, and most of all, track record in helping to make a difference in the lives of people I serve.
Need a breakthrough? Stand at a crossroad? Wish to take a second look at your road map? Wonder about your dreams and hopes? Want to become the best you can be? Worry about someone? Feel lonely? Exhausted? Anxious? Depressed? Angry? Vulnerable? Are any of these images filling up your space? Do you want some caring, respectful, and inspirational professional support for de-stressing yourself?
(289) 207-6684 View (289) 207-6684
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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.