Grief Psychiatrists in Harrisonburg, VA

Photo of Carey Dean, APRN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carey Dean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Hi, my name is Carey Dean. I am a FNP-C who has practiced in psychiatry for the last 5 years. I am weeks away from obtaining my PMHNP. Psychiatry is truly my passion, even more sharing my experience and knowledge with the community. I have just opened a small practice called Authentic Self Complete Wellness, I want to help everyone feel they are able to become the best version of themselves. In my practice I provide evaluations, assessments, diagnosis, and medication management. I can treat all major mental health diagnosis to include depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, an many other mood disorders.
Hi, my name is Carey Dean. I am a FNP-C who has practiced in psychiatry for the last 5 years. I am weeks away from obtaining my PMHNP. Psychiatry is truly my passion, even more sharing my experience and knowledge with the community. I have just opened a small practice called Authentic Self Complete Wellness, I want to help everyone feel they are able to become the best version of themselves. In my practice I provide evaluations, assessments, diagnosis, and medication management. I can treat all major mental health diagnosis to include depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, an many other mood disorders.
(540) 873-6393 View (540) 873-6393
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
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Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
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Photo of Molly Yazman, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Molly Yazman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about working with young people who are discovering where they exist in this world, struggling with new or existing mental illness, or questioning their identity. I feel that this population is unique and requires someone who is willing to see the whole picture and to educate, listen, and empathize with them and their experiences.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about working with young people who are discovering where they exist in this world, struggling with new or existing mental illness, or questioning their identity. I feel that this population is unique and requires someone who is willing to see the whole picture and to educate, listen, and empathize with them and their experiences.
(434) 442-2689 View (434) 442-2689

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Brittany Chandler, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23294  (Online Only)
~ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - TELE-HEALTH ONLY~ ~SELF-PAY WELCOME~ My ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. I am here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
~ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - TELE-HEALTH ONLY~ ~SELF-PAY WELCOME~ My ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. I am here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
(804) 409-7965 View (804) 409-7965
Photo of Danielle Free, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Free
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22903
Danielle offers a holistic, person-centered approach to working with patients who experience life disruptions from depression, anxiety, disorganized attention, stress, relationship dynamics, trauma, mood dysregulation, and grief. Her treatment philosophy is centered on a patient-provider partnership with a goal of cultivating mental wellness through empathic support, emotional awareness, and balancing techniques. She aims to prescribe medications in a conservative, effective and safe manner.
Danielle offers a holistic, person-centered approach to working with patients who experience life disruptions from depression, anxiety, disorganized attention, stress, relationship dynamics, trauma, mood dysregulation, and grief. Her treatment philosophy is centered on a patient-provider partnership with a goal of cultivating mental wellness through empathic support, emotional awareness, and balancing techniques. She aims to prescribe medications in a conservative, effective and safe manner.
(434) 280-3003 View (434) 280-3003
Photo of Dr. Ifeanyi Olele - Genesis Psychiatric Solutions, DO, MBA, MS, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ifeanyi Olele - Genesis Psychiatric Solutions
Psychiatrist, DO, MBA, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Thank you so much for considering Genesis Psychiatric Solutions. It is really a big step. Here are some reasons why people contact us: We work with busy professionals, healthcare workers, entrepreneurs, influencers, and creatives that are dealing with depression, anxiety, sleep issues, workplace stress/burnout, grief or trauma, OCD, and ADHD. We do not see you as a disorder, but a person who wants to improve their quality of life. We factor your total wellness and address it in your treatment.
Thank you so much for considering Genesis Psychiatric Solutions. It is really a big step. Here are some reasons why people contact us: We work with busy professionals, healthcare workers, entrepreneurs, influencers, and creatives that are dealing with depression, anxiety, sleep issues, workplace stress/burnout, grief or trauma, OCD, and ADHD. We do not see you as a disorder, but a person who wants to improve their quality of life. We factor your total wellness and address it in your treatment.
(571) 200-5305 View (571) 200-5305
Photo of Peggy Doyle - Peggy Doyle, Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse, PMH, CNS, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Peggy Doyle, Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH, CNS, BC
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
During the 50+ years I have been serving the community as a nurse and mental health therapist I have learned that you who come to me for help have your own answers locked inside. My work is to share my skills and experience to help you unravel your confusion and ease your emotional pain. Couples with relationship issues learn to listen. Individuals learn to deal with loss and grief. Anxiety dissipates with insight and learned skills. Children and Adolescents improve self esteem and confidence. Changing the way you look at your world will change the way you feel and act.
During the 50+ years I have been serving the community as a nurse and mental health therapist I have learned that you who come to me for help have your own answers locked inside. My work is to share my skills and experience to help you unravel your confusion and ease your emotional pain. Couples with relationship issues learn to listen. Individuals learn to deal with loss and grief. Anxiety dissipates with insight and learned skills. Children and Adolescents improve self esteem and confidence. Changing the way you look at your world will change the way you feel and act.
(540) 736-8887 View (540) 736-8887
Photo of Stephen Narigon, DNP, MBA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephen Narigon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23230  (Online Only)
Behavioral Problems • Autism • Depression • Anxiety Disorders • PTSD • Anger Management • Bipolar Disorder • Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder • Personality Disorders • Autism • PTSD • OCD •Trauma or Abuse • Depression • Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders • Grief & Loss.
We are accepting new pediatric and adult clients in North Carolina and Virginia. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of experience in psychiatry treating Autism, personality disorders, and mood disorders. The care provided includes solution-focused therapy, medication support, and psych-educational support. My primary areas of interest include positive and supportive psychology, optimizing human performance, and evidence-based methodologies in psychiatry. I collaborate with my clients to help discover personal treatment goals and formulate a mutually agreed-upon strategy for treatment.
Behavioral Problems • Autism • Depression • Anxiety Disorders • PTSD • Anger Management • Bipolar Disorder • Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder • Personality Disorders • Autism • PTSD • OCD •Trauma or Abuse • Depression • Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders • Grief & Loss.
We are accepting new pediatric and adult clients in North Carolina and Virginia. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of experience in psychiatry treating Autism, personality disorders, and mood disorders. The care provided includes solution-focused therapy, medication support, and psych-educational support. My primary areas of interest include positive and supportive psychology, optimizing human performance, and evidence-based methodologies in psychiatry. I collaborate with my clients to help discover personal treatment goals and formulate a mutually agreed-upon strategy for treatment.
(984) 203-9158 View (984) 203-9158
Psychiatric Associates of Northern Virginia LLC,
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chantilly, VA 20151
We offer management of common psychiatric disorders such as: Adult Attention deficit disorder, Anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, postpartum anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, Mood disorders, including major depression, postpartum depression, complicated grief, premenopausal and premenstrual mood disorder, seasonal affective disorder and depression related to medical conditions.
Psychiatrist Associates of Northern Virginia (paofnova.com) is comprehensive behavioral health practice geared to meet the psychiatric needs for individuals 18 and over. Our emphasis as clinicians is to build a seamless model, which integrates mind, spirit and body. Empathy, education, and support are extremely helpful while encouraging the person to continue until the best response can be achieved.
We offer management of common psychiatric disorders such as: Adult Attention deficit disorder, Anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, postpartum anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, Mood disorders, including major depression, postpartum depression, complicated grief, premenopausal and premenstrual mood disorder, seasonal affective disorder and depression related to medical conditions.
Psychiatrist Associates of Northern Virginia (paofnova.com) is comprehensive behavioral health practice geared to meet the psychiatric needs for individuals 18 and over. Our emphasis as clinicians is to build a seamless model, which integrates mind, spirit and body. Empathy, education, and support are extremely helpful while encouraging the person to continue until the best response can be achieved.
(571) 414-0242 View (571) 414-0242
Photo of Stephanie Waggel - Improve Life PLLC, Psychiatrist
Improve Life PLLC
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
We also have a therapist that specializes in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, dual diagnosis, grief, adjustment, and relational problems.
Improve Life provides medication management, therapy, and wellness strategies to children 12 and older, pregnant mothers, young adults, and women anywhere in Virginia. We also diagnose and treat ADHD in men and women of all ages. Next day appointments are usually available (as long as you do the paperwork). Come improve your life with us with one of our two highly experienced psychiatrists and/or our in-house therapist!
We also have a therapist that specializes in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, dual diagnosis, grief, adjustment, and relational problems.
Improve Life provides medication management, therapy, and wellness strategies to children 12 and older, pregnant mothers, young adults, and women anywhere in Virginia. We also diagnose and treat ADHD in men and women of all ages. Next day appointments are usually available (as long as you do the paperwork). Come improve your life with us with one of our two highly experienced psychiatrists and/or our in-house therapist!
(571) 496-8208 View (571) 496-8208
Photo of Tika Northington, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tika Northington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23235
Providing care both through therapy and medication management to children and adults with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family conflict, grief and loss, relationship clients, self-harm, self-esteem, and other disorders.
Tika brings to Lifestance years of experience working with children and teenagers both in and out of the medical field. These experiences have resulted in being able to relate to and enjoy working with this patient population. Her nursing career started in Washington, D. C. working with adults, and she loved it. It was here that she grew in her skills as a nurse and she began to see a common need of mental health in each and every one of her patients. Being able to walk with patients through some of the hardest moments of their life really increased her love for the field of mental health for both pediatrics and adults.
Providing care both through therapy and medication management to children and adults with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family conflict, grief and loss, relationship clients, self-harm, self-esteem, and other disorders.
Tika brings to Lifestance years of experience working with children and teenagers both in and out of the medical field. These experiences have resulted in being able to relate to and enjoy working with this patient population. Her nursing career started in Washington, D. C. working with adults, and she loved it. It was here that she grew in her skills as a nurse and she began to see a common need of mental health in each and every one of her patients. Being able to walk with patients through some of the hardest moments of their life really increased her love for the field of mental health for both pediatrics and adults.
(804) 676-6509 View (804) 676-6509
Photo of Pamela Shipp, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pamela Shipp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23294
Accepting New Patients. Our ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life we are here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. We are here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
Accepting New Patients. Our ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life we are here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. We are here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
(804) 265-4330 View (804) 265-4330
Photo of Amy Rizkallah, PA-C, MHSc, MS, Physician Assistant
Amy Rizkallah
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MHSc, MS
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20152  (Online Only)
I specialize in women's mental health. I treat a range of psychiatric issues including anxiety, depression, OCD, PMDD, bipolar, pregnancy and postpartum depression/anxiety. The overlap between mental health and hormones is often ignored. I specializes in mental health issues during fertility treatment, pregnancy loss, pregnancy planning, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. In partnership with Dr. Julie Brownley, I provide an evidence-based, holistic approach, focusing on utilizing the fewest medications possible, and optimizing all facets of wellness.
I specialize in women's mental health. I treat a range of psychiatric issues including anxiety, depression, OCD, PMDD, bipolar, pregnancy and postpartum depression/anxiety. The overlap between mental health and hormones is often ignored. I specializes in mental health issues during fertility treatment, pregnancy loss, pregnancy planning, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. In partnership with Dr. Julie Brownley, I provide an evidence-based, holistic approach, focusing on utilizing the fewest medications possible, and optimizing all facets of wellness.
(646) 397-7210 View (646) 397-7210
Photo of Igor Pryadkin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Igor Pryadkin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
Life can be challenging, and it's okay to seek help when you are facing difficulties, As a dedicated certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I'm here to provide you with compassionate and personalized care. Services I offer is Anxiety and Stress Management, Mood disorders, Trauma and PTSD counseling, Anger management, OCD & Compulsive Habits, Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder(ADHD) support, Autism spectrum guidance, Behavioral issues, Grief counseling, Insomnia Solutions, Parenting support.
Life can be challenging, and it's okay to seek help when you are facing difficulties, As a dedicated certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I'm here to provide you with compassionate and personalized care. Services I offer is Anxiety and Stress Management, Mood disorders, Trauma and PTSD counseling, Anger management, OCD & Compulsive Habits, Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder(ADHD) support, Autism spectrum guidance, Behavioral issues, Grief counseling, Insomnia Solutions, Parenting support.
(703) 997-4626 View (703) 997-4626
Photo of Brianna Rodriguez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brianna Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101  (Online Only)
Brianna is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, panic disorders, grief, trauma, and life transitions. She focuses her practice on providing quality and evidenced-based care to her clients while using a compassionate approach. In her multifaceted role as a PMHNP, she acts as an educator, and mental health advocate, providing medication management and therapy services. Brianna completed her Master's in Nursing at Walden University with a specialty in Psychiatric and Mental Health.
Brianna is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, panic disorders, grief, trauma, and life transitions. She focuses her practice on providing quality and evidenced-based care to her clients while using a compassionate approach. In her multifaceted role as a PMHNP, she acts as an educator, and mental health advocate, providing medication management and therapy services. Brianna completed her Master's in Nursing at Walden University with a specialty in Psychiatric and Mental Health.
(339) 244-7023 View (339) 244-7023
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23220  (Online Only)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
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Photo of Jennifer Sims, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(571) 554-1308 View (571) 554-1308
Photo of Jeanne Chutuape, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeanne Chutuape
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
We all have solutions within us – it is a matter of learning how to tap into these solutions. The most effective way to heal is by focusing on your strengths and harnessing your available resources while controlling the symptoms. At Inspire Behavioral Health, we consider all treatment options available and strive to take a balanced and integrative approach. While it’s necessary to target the symptoms that lead someone to get help, but it is also important to understand that people are much more than the symptoms they are experiencing.
We all have solutions within us – it is a matter of learning how to tap into these solutions. The most effective way to heal is by focusing on your strengths and harnessing your available resources while controlling the symptoms. At Inspire Behavioral Health, we consider all treatment options available and strive to take a balanced and integrative approach. While it’s necessary to target the symptoms that lead someone to get help, but it is also important to understand that people are much more than the symptoms they are experiencing.
(571) 427-0742 View (571) 427-0742

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Grief Psychiatrists

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.