Grief Therapists in 60661
![Photo of Suzie Thomas, LCPC, ATR-BC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4bef181-59c0-4e3f-a0e3-d8b95c0f0760/1/320x400.png)
Are you looking to understand yourself better, clarify your values and make strides towards your desired life? I'd love to support you. I have extensive experience helping clients through eating disorder recovery (including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and ARFID), body image, anxiety, grief and loss, and life transitions. I believe change is possible for every individual and that it’s easier to attain with support, skills and encouragement. I strive to create an accepting and non-judgmental environment where hard things can be explored and held with curiosity and compassion.
Are you looking to understand yourself better, clarify your values and make strides towards your desired life? I'd love to support you. I have extensive experience helping clients through eating disorder recovery (including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and ARFID), body image, anxiety, grief and loss, and life transitions. I believe change is possible for every individual and that it’s easier to attain with support, skills and encouragement. I strive to create an accepting and non-judgmental environment where hard things can be explored and held with curiosity and compassion.
![Photo of Grace Hicks, LCPC, NCC, MA, CGP, CCTP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/214c7177-2abc-45d8-916c-3d7a471b9d25/2/320x400.jpeg)
With a grief and trauma-informed approach, we will carefully hold all sorts of loss, little t traumas, and big T traumas.
Hello! I earned my MA from Northwestern University and have been honing my skills in private practice for six years. I use a relaxed and person-centered approach to help adults of all backgrounds authentically navigate the complexities of life. In a non-judgmental space, we will prioritize what is important to you. We will increase self-awareness by exploring relationship patterns, attachment styles, defense mechanisms, and meaningful memories. We will help daily life feel more manageable with mindfulness practice, communication/conflict management skills, and self-compassion.
With a grief and trauma-informed approach, we will carefully hold all sorts of loss, little t traumas, and big T traumas.
Hello! I earned my MA from Northwestern University and have been honing my skills in private practice for six years. I use a relaxed and person-centered approach to help adults of all backgrounds authentically navigate the complexities of life. In a non-judgmental space, we will prioritize what is important to you. We will increase self-awareness by exploring relationship patterns, attachment styles, defense mechanisms, and meaningful memories. We will help daily life feel more manageable with mindfulness practice, communication/conflict management skills, and self-compassion.
![Photo of Amalia Pryor-McClellan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1cbbd5f-0c0a-4ca8-83ee-b0056205804f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amalia Pryor-McClellan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
In addition to working with medical related transitions, I am committed to working with individuals who have experienced grief, loss, and trauma or abuse.
Life is ever changing, and with change can bring a plethora of other emotions including stress, depression and anxiety. It takes strength to seek help when we are feeling most vulnerable. I aim to create a safe, warm, and supportive connection with another person and use that connection to cultivate change. I’d like to help you become empowered to accomplish your own goals and to take control of your life. All transitions are difficult, whether it is anticipated or unexpected change. As adults, we have many responsibilities to uphold. This can include career, relationships, and family, emotional and physical health.
In addition to working with medical related transitions, I am committed to working with individuals who have experienced grief, loss, and trauma or abuse.
Life is ever changing, and with change can bring a plethora of other emotions including stress, depression and anxiety. It takes strength to seek help when we are feeling most vulnerable. I aim to create a safe, warm, and supportive connection with another person and use that connection to cultivate change. I’d like to help you become empowered to accomplish your own goals and to take control of your life. All transitions are difficult, whether it is anticipated or unexpected change. As adults, we have many responsibilities to uphold. This can include career, relationships, and family, emotional and physical health.
![Photo of Andrea Santiago, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6e8a287-05b2-4f6e-8062-27375e712d16/1/320x400.jpeg)
Specializing in supporting individuals through grief/loss and life transitions, I possess expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, identi.
Life seldom follows our plans. Instead, we often find ourselves navigating through its twists and turns. There's immense pressure to have a clear sense of self, direction, and purpose, all while maintaining a facade of bravery and happiness. Yet, life's unpredictable waves constantly challenge this, leading to emotional and psychological strain. In therapy, I partner with you to navigate life's complexities. Together, we explore difficult circumstances and profound questions, fostering deep healing, growth, and meaning in a secure environment.
Specializing in supporting individuals through grief/loss and life transitions, I possess expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, identi.
Life seldom follows our plans. Instead, we often find ourselves navigating through its twists and turns. There's immense pressure to have a clear sense of self, direction, and purpose, all while maintaining a facade of bravery and happiness. Yet, life's unpredictable waves constantly challenge this, leading to emotional and psychological strain. In therapy, I partner with you to navigate life's complexities. Together, we explore difficult circumstances and profound questions, fostering deep healing, growth, and meaning in a secure environment.
![Photo of Howard Ruan, LSW, MDiv](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e138dc88-759a-4631-85e5-db60b626d1c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with life transitions, grief, and spirituality. Maybe your sense of purpose or meaning has gone missing - maybe someone you know is no longer here, or perhaps something you thought was a certainty in your life - a job, a relationship, a friend, a pet, a community, your health or very life - isn't so certain anymore. You don't know why or maybe even how. That's okay. We'll start there. We'll hold space together as we work collaboratively to build awareness, cultivate compassion toward your self no matter how your self shows up, and act toward your values and desires.
I work with life transitions, grief, and spirituality. Maybe your sense of purpose or meaning has gone missing - maybe someone you know is no longer here, or perhaps something you thought was a certainty in your life - a job, a relationship, a friend, a pet, a community, your health or very life - isn't so certain anymore. You don't know why or maybe even how. That's okay. We'll start there. We'll hold space together as we work collaboratively to build awareness, cultivate compassion toward your self no matter how your self shows up, and act toward your values and desires.
![Photo of Dr. Julie Thomas, PhD, LCPC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6182e543-dd98-403b-9430-92a3eba4e84f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Julie Thomas
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
If you're struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, or if you're facing a big life decision, I can help! We'll work together to help you face these challenges head on. I have advanced training in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship concerns. My approach is strengths-based and designed to help my clients identify and remove barriers keeping them from living their best lives possible.
If you're struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, or if you're facing a big life decision, I can help! We'll work together to help you face these challenges head on. I have advanced training in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship concerns. My approach is strengths-based and designed to help my clients identify and remove barriers keeping them from living their best lives possible.
![Photo of Lucy Waldmeir, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b749c17f-18ca-4a18-89b5-914e3f0d3025/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a transnational and transracial adoptee with complex backgrounds, I'm passionate about working with the multicultural and multiracial individuals, adoptees and adolescents and adults from diverse racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds. I have experience working with individuals from marginalized communities experiencing a range of traumas, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, stressors, identity issues, etc. I understand adoptees may face unique difficulties, including interracial family conflict, self-esteem issues, race and cultural identity confusion, and feelings of grief and loss.
As a transnational and transracial adoptee with complex backgrounds, I'm passionate about working with the multicultural and multiracial individuals, adoptees and adolescents and adults from diverse racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds. I have experience working with individuals from marginalized communities experiencing a range of traumas, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, stressors, identity issues, etc. I understand adoptees may face unique difficulties, including interracial family conflict, self-esteem issues, race and cultural identity confusion, and feelings of grief and loss.
![Photo of Shirley Khong, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2d25724-30e7-4bfc-ad98-209455569e71/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shirley Khong
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
As a therapist, I specialize in supporting clients through a range of emotional challenges, including anxiety, grief, trauma, abuse, relationship transitions, and depression.
The world today is so loud with everything and everyone buzzing in your ear telling you how to live your life or how you are "doing things wrong". You care so much about others' needs and wants that maybe you forget your own. Or that you have a voice. Or that you can take up space. Your emotions may feel out of control which may make you feel not like yourself. "What's wrong with me?" you might ask. I want to help you create a quiet space for reflection on what YOU want your life to be like. Giving you permission to fully be un-apologetically you.
As a therapist, I specialize in supporting clients through a range of emotional challenges, including anxiety, grief, trauma, abuse, relationship transitions, and depression.
The world today is so loud with everything and everyone buzzing in your ear telling you how to live your life or how you are "doing things wrong". You care so much about others' needs and wants that maybe you forget your own. Or that you have a voice. Or that you can take up space. Your emotions may feel out of control which may make you feel not like yourself. "What's wrong with me?" you might ask. I want to help you create a quiet space for reflection on what YOU want your life to be like. Giving you permission to fully be un-apologetically you.
![Photo of Inner Tides Counseling Pllc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b56e916f-4650-44b2-80c6-c5cb9ce57ed4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Inner Tides Counseling Pllc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Darlene, founder/owner of Inner Tides Counseling, PLLC. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Illinois and Florida. I have over 8 years of experience primarily working with children, adolescents, and adults who experienced various forms trauma. I also support people in addressing areas of relationships, parenting, life transitions, grief/loss, depression & anxiety. I use relational, trauma-informed, anti-oppressive frameworks rooted in feminist, attachment, systems theories.
Hi, my name is Darlene, founder/owner of Inner Tides Counseling, PLLC. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Illinois and Florida. I have over 8 years of experience primarily working with children, adolescents, and adults who experienced various forms trauma. I also support people in addressing areas of relationships, parenting, life transitions, grief/loss, depression & anxiety. I use relational, trauma-informed, anti-oppressive frameworks rooted in feminist, attachment, systems theories.
![Photo of Kirsten Hall, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41f47c96-94bc-455b-abb6-9e546103d3d8/2/320x400.jpeg)
As your therapist, I prioritize learning about you, I’m here to listen. Whether you’re looking to cope with a major life transition, grief, stress or coping skills to manage anxiety or depression, I customize my approach to meet your needs so we can work to create positive change. During difficult times, it is my hope to help you feel more connected, understood, and supported. Together we can work to find light among what may feel like dark times.
As your therapist, I prioritize learning about you, I’m here to listen. Whether you’re looking to cope with a major life transition, grief, stress or coping skills to manage anxiety or depression, I customize my approach to meet your needs so we can work to create positive change. During difficult times, it is my hope to help you feel more connected, understood, and supported. Together we can work to find light among what may feel like dark times.
![Photo of Angie Green, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9af0fb18-f52b-4618-8117-bc61e95cdf84/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with individuals who want to focus on life adjustments/transitions, identity development, relationship concerns, grief and loss concerns, substance use concerns, trauma, depressive symptoms and anxiety symptoms.
Hi there, glad you’re here. If you’re ready, I’m excited to get started on your journey in therapy together. As someone who comes to the work with warmth and empathy, I strive to build a therapeutic relationship with my clients that opens up space for healing and growth. In our time together, I would aim to help you understand how past events and relationships have shaped your way in the world and look to open up new possibilities. By discussing how the past may be impeding our present, I believe we can build towards a future worth looking forward to.
I enjoy working with individuals who want to focus on life adjustments/transitions, identity development, relationship concerns, grief and loss concerns, substance use concerns, trauma, depressive symptoms and anxiety symptoms.
Hi there, glad you’re here. If you’re ready, I’m excited to get started on your journey in therapy together. As someone who comes to the work with warmth and empathy, I strive to build a therapeutic relationship with my clients that opens up space for healing and growth. In our time together, I would aim to help you understand how past events and relationships have shaped your way in the world and look to open up new possibilities. By discussing how the past may be impeding our present, I believe we can build towards a future worth looking forward to.
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![Photo of Maryrose Fernandes Bolgar, MS, MA, LPC, MCH, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/514e9108-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maryrose Fernandes Bolgar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, MCH
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661
Usually, people look for help when they are faced with a situation that they are unable to find a satisfactory solution to either in their own repertoire of experiences or within their immediate environment. Situations can involve the loss of a loved one, or a marriage. It can also include a family crisis, anxiety, depression, difficulty connecting and maintaining a connection with others, work troubles, and illness and death.
Usually, people look for help when they are faced with a situation that they are unable to find a satisfactory solution to either in their own repertoire of experiences or within their immediate environment. Situations can involve the loss of a loved one, or a marriage. It can also include a family crisis, anxiety, depression, difficulty connecting and maintaining a connection with others, work troubles, and illness and death.
![Photo of Sheina Dixon, MA, LCPC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0715f4d-43e3-4f2b-b555-abeefb3ac489/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sheina Dixon
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
I have worked with a diverse population of clients by factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and ethnic groups that have dealt with varying challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, parent/child conflicts, grief, mood & behavior disorders, PTSD, and ADD/ADHD.
My main focus has been to empower clients to reach a higher level of self-sufficiency and healing through supportive practices. Understanding that the world in which we live, how we function, and the resources available to us determines the perspective and navigation in which one has. I approach things through a holistic( mind, body, soul) lens as people cannot function as their best self in fragmented pieces. I am looking to serve individuals who have difficulty with coping through life stressors, while being open to the possibilities of transformative solutions.
I have worked with a diverse population of clients by factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and ethnic groups that have dealt with varying challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, parent/child conflicts, grief, mood & behavior disorders, PTSD, and ADD/ADHD.
My main focus has been to empower clients to reach a higher level of self-sufficiency and healing through supportive practices. Understanding that the world in which we live, how we function, and the resources available to us determines the perspective and navigation in which one has. I approach things through a holistic( mind, body, soul) lens as people cannot function as their best self in fragmented pieces. I am looking to serve individuals who have difficulty with coping through life stressors, while being open to the possibilities of transformative solutions.
![Photo of Maureen Kernan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4655059c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maureen Kernan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients on relationship issues, work-life stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss issues, eating disorders and traumatic experiences.
While life's challenges and transitions are often times when we feel greater anxiety and stress, I believe they are also opportunities for self-understanding and growth. Whether you are dealing with stress in relationships or at work, feeling worn out or depressed, or struggling to cope with a loss, you don't have to work through it alone. I strive to provide a safe, supportive and reflective environment where clients can feel comfortable to explore their concerns, feelings, and relationship patterns and build upon their strengths to develop different ways of understanding, coping, and relating to themselves and others.
I have experience working with clients on relationship issues, work-life stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss issues, eating disorders and traumatic experiences.
While life's challenges and transitions are often times when we feel greater anxiety and stress, I believe they are also opportunities for self-understanding and growth. Whether you are dealing with stress in relationships or at work, feeling worn out or depressed, or struggling to cope with a loss, you don't have to work through it alone. I strive to provide a safe, supportive and reflective environment where clients can feel comfortable to explore their concerns, feelings, and relationship patterns and build upon their strengths to develop different ways of understanding, coping, and relating to themselves and others.
![Photo of Bushra Sarkar, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8222ac1e-cdd7-40dd-9fde-632e7b973c31/5/320x400.jpeg)
Bushra Sarkar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
For some of you, this is the first time you are choosing to live the life you want to live outside of the cultural and religious lines that were set for you. For others, this is the first time you are setting out on your own in a new city for school or a job. Maybe you just went through your first breakup and you are rediscovering yourself. Maybe this is the first time you’re grieving the loss of someone. These first moments can be significant in life, and while some firsts are more exciting than others, they all have something in common – our first moments, whatever they are, can bring out a mixed bag of complicated feelings.
For some of you, this is the first time you are choosing to live the life you want to live outside of the cultural and religious lines that were set for you. For others, this is the first time you are setting out on your own in a new city for school or a job. Maybe you just went through your first breakup and you are rediscovering yourself. Maybe this is the first time you’re grieving the loss of someone. These first moments can be significant in life, and while some firsts are more exciting than others, they all have something in common – our first moments, whatever they are, can bring out a mixed bag of complicated feelings.
![Photo of Amy Groessl, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74a18b97-5712-40b8-94ab-d2a7301d13b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Groessl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical expertise focuses on trauma, attachment, grief/loss, relationship dynamics, and working with those within the adoption triad or misattributed parentage.
Whether you wish to gain clarity about a life challenge or seek to resolve a deeper change from within, our work together will present an opportunity to rework the patterns that may be disrupting your relationships or preventing you from fulfilling your life goals. I have advanced training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, viewing our therapeutic relationship as central to the change process while helping you understand how past conflicts affect how you feel in the present. I approach our work together from a genuine, empathetic stance with openness, humor, and curiosity. It is important that we are partners in your healing process.
My clinical expertise focuses on trauma, attachment, grief/loss, relationship dynamics, and working with those within the adoption triad or misattributed parentage.
Whether you wish to gain clarity about a life challenge or seek to resolve a deeper change from within, our work together will present an opportunity to rework the patterns that may be disrupting your relationships or preventing you from fulfilling your life goals. I have advanced training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, viewing our therapeutic relationship as central to the change process while helping you understand how past conflicts affect how you feel in the present. I approach our work together from a genuine, empathetic stance with openness, humor, and curiosity. It is important that we are partners in your healing process.
![Photo of Tara Thomason, JD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4660ce76-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tara Thomason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
My approach to therapy is reflective, authentic and insight oriented, with an emphasis on creating a trusting and collaborative relationship. With more than 20 years experience working with individuals, couples and families, my practice is informed by clinical expertise in treating symptoms of trauma, depression, and anxiety. I also counsel for issues related to life transitions, complex relationships, intimacy, parenting, identity, grief and loss. I greet clients with openness and curiosity, engaging a process that best fits their individual needs.
My approach to therapy is reflective, authentic and insight oriented, with an emphasis on creating a trusting and collaborative relationship. With more than 20 years experience working with individuals, couples and families, my practice is informed by clinical expertise in treating symptoms of trauma, depression, and anxiety. I also counsel for issues related to life transitions, complex relationships, intimacy, parenting, identity, grief and loss. I greet clients with openness and curiosity, engaging a process that best fits their individual needs.
![Photo of Stephanie Korpal, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8bed97b5-f35a-4756-8ba0-8ab7c60cf79c/2/320x400.png)
Stephanie Korpal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief & loss, & maternal mental health.
You feel like you're barely hanging in there. Like you've lost your way, or maybe even yourself. You just can't seem to get back on solid footing-emotionally OR mentally. You’ve tried your usual tips and tricks to feel better, but they’ve barely moved the needle. Your brain feels like it's not your friend and it's tough to find happiness in the things that usually bring you joy. Your confidence has been knocked down a few pegs. You either feel keyed up with constant worry or knocked flat, laying on the couch or your bed without the energy to do anything. And now you've decided: it's time for a change.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief & loss, & maternal mental health.
You feel like you're barely hanging in there. Like you've lost your way, or maybe even yourself. You just can't seem to get back on solid footing-emotionally OR mentally. You’ve tried your usual tips and tricks to feel better, but they’ve barely moved the needle. Your brain feels like it's not your friend and it's tough to find happiness in the things that usually bring you joy. Your confidence has been knocked down a few pegs. You either feel keyed up with constant worry or knocked flat, laying on the couch or your bed without the energy to do anything. And now you've decided: it's time for a change.
![Photo of Alexis Schmiedigen, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f67068a-8eb3-4000-b2f4-aa878a953f1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether entering therapy for symptom relief, a desire for greater self-understanding, or to cope with a particular crisis, I am committed to helping clients achieve their goals. I treat a variety of concerns including anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, grief/loss, self-esteem, life transitions, women’s issues, infertility, eating disorders, stress management, acculturative stress and cross-cultural challenges. Using telehealth, I am able to work with adults from various professional, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds who reside in IL, MA, and PSYPACT participating states.
Whether entering therapy for symptom relief, a desire for greater self-understanding, or to cope with a particular crisis, I am committed to helping clients achieve their goals. I treat a variety of concerns including anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, grief/loss, self-esteem, life transitions, women’s issues, infertility, eating disorders, stress management, acculturative stress and cross-cultural challenges. Using telehealth, I am able to work with adults from various professional, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds who reside in IL, MA, and PSYPACT participating states.
![Photo of Jessica Guha, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2fc24da-47a4-4425-a8d6-13c14b458db7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Guha
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
I particularly enjoy working with individuals and couples who are navigating life transitions, such as having a new baby or experiencing divorce or loss of a loved one.
We are more than the stories we have been told about ourselves. However, learning to let go of these narratives or rewrite them in a more compassionate way can be challenging. Mindful of the impact of trauma and systems of oppression, I will work with you to identify clues that tell us when you are feeling overwhelmed and more likely to fall back into unhelpful patterns of thought and behavior. I use our therapeutic relationship as a mirror and a safety net to encourage both reflection and self-compassion. I understand the importance of meeting clients where they are at, a practice I bring from my time as a classroom teacher.
I particularly enjoy working with individuals and couples who are navigating life transitions, such as having a new baby or experiencing divorce or loss of a loved one.
We are more than the stories we have been told about ourselves. However, learning to let go of these narratives or rewrite them in a more compassionate way can be challenging. Mindful of the impact of trauma and systems of oppression, I will work with you to identify clues that tell us when you are feeling overwhelmed and more likely to fall back into unhelpful patterns of thought and behavior. I use our therapeutic relationship as a mirror and a safety net to encourage both reflection and self-compassion. I understand the importance of meeting clients where they are at, a practice I bring from my time as a classroom teacher.
See more therapy options for 60661
Grief Therapists
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.