Grief Therapists in Decatur, GA

Photo of Sara Zambo, MS, LAPC, NCC
Sara Zambo
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
I have experience working with childhood trauma, grief, anxiety, perfectionism, LGBTQIA+ concerns, ADHD, and autism.
I often work with people who are feeling stuck and disconnected from themselves and their loved ones because of past experiences that continue to impact them in the present. You may notice that strategies you developed to survive those periods of your life no longer serve you, but are unsure how to change. Taking the first step to get help and approach the thoughts, emotions, and events that have felt too difficult to touch can be intimidating and anxiety provoking. As your therapist it is my goal to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and accepting environment for you to process your past and find new ways of caring for yourself today.
I have experience working with childhood trauma, grief, anxiety, perfectionism, LGBTQIA+ concerns, ADHD, and autism.
I often work with people who are feeling stuck and disconnected from themselves and their loved ones because of past experiences that continue to impact them in the present. You may notice that strategies you developed to survive those periods of your life no longer serve you, but are unsure how to change. Taking the first step to get help and approach the thoughts, emotions, and events that have felt too difficult to touch can be intimidating and anxiety provoking. As your therapist it is my goal to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and accepting environment for you to process your past and find new ways of caring for yourself today.
(404) 383-6618 View (404) 383-6618
Photo of Ashley Ludwinski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Ludwinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I am a trauma-informed provider who supports individuals and couples navigating grief/loss, conflict, trauma and transition. I am passionate about supporting folks identifying with neurodiversity (eg. autistic, AuDH, diagnosed with ADHD, etc ). Clients I support often struggle with the impact of stories about who they "should be", questioning, "Do I matter?" or shedding pieces of themselves to create a sense of belonging. Understanding our stories is one of the bravest things we can do. Together we can explore yours, identify your values and strengths, and pursue healing and growth.
I am a trauma-informed provider who supports individuals and couples navigating grief/loss, conflict, trauma and transition. I am passionate about supporting folks identifying with neurodiversity (eg. autistic, AuDH, diagnosed with ADHD, etc ). Clients I support often struggle with the impact of stories about who they "should be", questioning, "Do I matter?" or shedding pieces of themselves to create a sense of belonging. Understanding our stories is one of the bravest things we can do. Together we can explore yours, identify your values and strengths, and pursue healing and growth.
(404) 531-7403 View (404) 531-7403
Photo of Olga A Attebery, LAMFT, LAPC, CCBRT-C, NCC
Olga A Attebery
Associate Professional Counselor, LAMFT, LAPC, CCBRT-C, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30033
Sometimes in the midst of struggle, it is hard to be hopeful. When it is hard, it is my privilege to hold that hope for you. I work with both men and women, as well as couples. I am passionate about working with couples through affair recovery and other difficult transitions. I am trained in the Gottman method and use this approach along with techniques from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help my couples reach their relationship goals. I also have a passion for working with trauma, grief and loss; and as a first-generation American, the complexities of a multicultural existence.
Sometimes in the midst of struggle, it is hard to be hopeful. When it is hard, it is my privilege to hold that hope for you. I work with both men and women, as well as couples. I am passionate about working with couples through affair recovery and other difficult transitions. I am trained in the Gottman method and use this approach along with techniques from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help my couples reach their relationship goals. I also have a passion for working with trauma, grief and loss; and as a first-generation American, the complexities of a multicultural existence.
(404) 620-2263 View (404) 620-2263
Photo of Abby Marateck, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Abby Marateck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
The future may not feel bright right now. You may be overcome by a feeling of hopelessness that seems like it will last forever. The death of a loved one, the loss of your identity, or loneliness might feel all-consuming. Let the part of you that wants things to be different help you to reach out. I am here to provide a safe space to be heard, to be supported, and to help you identify your unique gifts and strengths. Together we can collaborate to restore balance to your life and let some of the light back in.
The future may not feel bright right now. You may be overcome by a feeling of hopelessness that seems like it will last forever. The death of a loved one, the loss of your identity, or loneliness might feel all-consuming. Let the part of you that wants things to be different help you to reach out. I am here to provide a safe space to be heard, to be supported, and to help you identify your unique gifts and strengths. Together we can collaborate to restore balance to your life and let some of the light back in.
(404) 724-5511 View (404) 724-5511
Photo of Lakeesha Love - Love Integrative Therapies, Inc., MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Love Integrative Therapies, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30033  (Online Only)
We work with individuals including children and families to improve mental health, encourage individuals to discuss emotions and past experiences, examine issues including Stress, Depression, ADHD, Grief and Anxiety as well as help individuals define goals, plan action and gain insight.
Love Integrative Therapies, Inc. (LIT) is a mental health organization whose focus is to support individuals through distress through a variety of modalities. LIT is dedicated to working with each individual to ensure that they receive the type of service to best fit their needs with respect to their personal preferences.
We work with individuals including children and families to improve mental health, encourage individuals to discuss emotions and past experiences, examine issues including Stress, Depression, ADHD, Grief and Anxiety as well as help individuals define goals, plan action and gain insight.
Love Integrative Therapies, Inc. (LIT) is a mental health organization whose focus is to support individuals through distress through a variety of modalities. LIT is dedicated to working with each individual to ensure that they receive the type of service to best fit their needs with respect to their personal preferences.
(770) 680-4090 View (770) 680-4090
Photo of Elizabeth Valera, LPC, CT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Valera
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CT
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30033
Life often seems to move so quickly, barely allowing a chance to take in all that we have experienced. Especially in times of change or intense grief, you may want a space to process your experiences-both the mundane moments and major life-changing events-in order to understand what is going on inside. Therapy can be the perfect space to sort through your experiences, search for meaning and understanding, and discern the path forward that is right for you.
Life often seems to move so quickly, barely allowing a chance to take in all that we have experienced. Especially in times of change or intense grief, you may want a space to process your experiences-both the mundane moments and major life-changing events-in order to understand what is going on inside. Therapy can be the perfect space to sort through your experiences, search for meaning and understanding, and discern the path forward that is right for you.
(404) 948-3063 View (404) 948-3063
Photo of Stephanie Borer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Borer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Waitlist for new clients
Have you suffered overwhelming experiences that are too big for words? Maybe you believe what you are going through is too great a burden to share with others? Are you ready for your past to loosen its grip on your present, and future? I am here, with no judgments, to hold a calm and nurturing space for you. My passion is in providing a safe and collaborative space for healing, where you are seen, heard, and understood. I specialize in working with trauma, grief, chronic illness, anxiety and depression. If you are ready to reconnect with your authentic self and live life in the present, I would be honored to work with you.
Have you suffered overwhelming experiences that are too big for words? Maybe you believe what you are going through is too great a burden to share with others? Are you ready for your past to loosen its grip on your present, and future? I am here, with no judgments, to hold a calm and nurturing space for you. My passion is in providing a safe and collaborative space for healing, where you are seen, heard, and understood. I specialize in working with trauma, grief, chronic illness, anxiety and depression. If you are ready to reconnect with your authentic self and live life in the present, I would be honored to work with you.
(470) 296-1966 View (470) 296-1966
Photo of Chris Dorsey, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Dorsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Using a person-centered approach, my specialty areas include Internal Family Systems, grief and loss, men's and women's issues, trauma and aging.
Feeling overwhelmed and frustrated when outcomes do not meet your expectations? Burdened with strong emotions that continually cause reactivity and negative consequences? Experiencing pain and suffering from a recent loss of a loved one, job, relationship or even a pet? These symptoms are difficult to treat on your own. They need openness and validation from a professional. A place to calm the nervous system and feel safe to vulnerably explore the issues at-hand. I take great pride in providing that environment. Someone did that for me and it transformed my life. It would be a privilege to do the same for you.
Using a person-centered approach, my specialty areas include Internal Family Systems, grief and loss, men's and women's issues, trauma and aging.
Feeling overwhelmed and frustrated when outcomes do not meet your expectations? Burdened with strong emotions that continually cause reactivity and negative consequences? Experiencing pain and suffering from a recent loss of a loved one, job, relationship or even a pet? These symptoms are difficult to treat on your own. They need openness and validation from a professional. A place to calm the nervous system and feel safe to vulnerably explore the issues at-hand. I take great pride in providing that environment. Someone did that for me and it transformed my life. It would be a privilege to do the same for you.
(404) 309-5789 View (404) 309-5789
Photo of Betsy Frasier, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Betsy Frasier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years experience in the area of adult mental health. My approach to therapy emphasizes a genuine presence and warmth. I believe deep listening and presence establish a bond between client and therapist that must be present before theory or technique can be effective. I believe that bearing compassionate witness to others stories can lessen despair, increase trust, and create a safe place for the healing process to begin. I have interest and experience in grief work, persistent anxiety/depression, problems that follow traumatic events or abuse, and helping with life transitions.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years experience in the area of adult mental health. My approach to therapy emphasizes a genuine presence and warmth. I believe deep listening and presence establish a bond between client and therapist that must be present before theory or technique can be effective. I believe that bearing compassionate witness to others stories can lessen despair, increase trust, and create a safe place for the healing process to begin. I have interest and experience in grief work, persistent anxiety/depression, problems that follow traumatic events or abuse, and helping with life transitions.
(404) 369-2111 View (404) 369-2111
Photo of Kendal Harrod, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kendal Harrod
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034  (Online Only)
In my role as a therapist, I aim to help clients foster meaningful relationships with self and others, develop interpersonal skills, work through trauma, develop healthy and positive thought patterns, navigate the complexities of grief and pain, and provide guidance through life transitions.
My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for self-exploration and development of tools to navigate life's challenges. My therapeutic approach is highlighted through a person-centered, solution-focused approach by helping identify individual strengths and increase self-esteem/confidence.
In my role as a therapist, I aim to help clients foster meaningful relationships with self and others, develop interpersonal skills, work through trauma, develop healthy and positive thought patterns, navigate the complexities of grief and pain, and provide guidance through life transitions.
My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for self-exploration and development of tools to navigate life's challenges. My therapeutic approach is highlighted through a person-centered, solution-focused approach by helping identify individual strengths and increase self-esteem/confidence.
(470) 782-8457 View (470) 782-8457
Photo of Erica 'yarona Rapha' Miles - Rooted Reflections Pastoral Counseling, PC, BS, PP, Pastoral Counselor
Rooted Reflections Pastoral Counseling
Pastoral Counselor, PC, BS, PP
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034  (Online Only)
If you have faced traumatic loss, a life-threatening situation, or a perceived failure, we're here to offer genuine hope through our rootedness in the everlasting truth of God's word.
Spiritual warfare seems to be getting more and more common. You are never alone. Sometimes we need a starting point and a bit of hope. Romans 15:4 KJV - "For whatsoever things were written afore time were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope."
If you have faced traumatic loss, a life-threatening situation, or a perceived failure, we're here to offer genuine hope through our rootedness in the everlasting truth of God's word.
Spiritual warfare seems to be getting more and more common. You are never alone. Sometimes we need a starting point and a bit of hope. Romans 15:4 KJV - "For whatsoever things were written afore time were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope."
(678) 274-9940 View (678) 274-9940
Photo of Kate Zera Kray, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Zera Kray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Are you overcome with grief and wondering how you will (ever) recover from the death of a loved one; the loss of a job; a divorce; or your own decline in health? Are you finding that time does not heal all wounds? I am sorry you are going through a difficult time and I commend you for reaching out for support along your journey. It is my hope that my extensive clinical experience, coupled with your resiliency and resolve, will enable us to uncover the tools necessary to reinvest in your life. I am accepting new clients for virtual meetings. I am licensed in Georgia, Illinois and Iowa.
Are you overcome with grief and wondering how you will (ever) recover from the death of a loved one; the loss of a job; a divorce; or your own decline in health? Are you finding that time does not heal all wounds? I am sorry you are going through a difficult time and I commend you for reaching out for support along your journey. It is my hope that my extensive clinical experience, coupled with your resiliency and resolve, will enable us to uncover the tools necessary to reinvest in your life. I am accepting new clients for virtual meetings. I am licensed in Georgia, Illinois and Iowa.
(404) 341-6729 View (404) 341-6729
Photo of Franklin Abbott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Franklin Abbott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I am very experienced in helping people with grief and loss.
I form a therapeutic relationship with my clients to help them deal with the issues they present. I draw on my years of experience and training to create the most effective treatment. Most of my clients experience relief within weeks of beginning therapy. Depending on the depth of the issues presented therapy can last a few months to a few years. Trust is the foundation and insight the main tool to create positive and long lasting change. I work with my clients to find what is best for them and support them in making the changes they want.
I am very experienced in helping people with grief and loss.
I form a therapeutic relationship with my clients to help them deal with the issues they present. I draw on my years of experience and training to create the most effective treatment. Most of my clients experience relief within weeks of beginning therapy. Depending on the depth of the issues presented therapy can last a few months to a few years. Trust is the foundation and insight the main tool to create positive and long lasting change. I work with my clients to find what is best for them and support them in making the changes they want.
(404) 900-7646 View (404) 900-7646
Photo of Stacie Chisolm Cook, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacie Chisolm Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Waitlist for new clients
I also have a special interest in grief and trauma especially the impact of sudden loss on the individual and family unit.
Hello, and thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. I believe in the power of a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. It is within this relationship that growth and change occur. I view my role in the therapeutic relationship as the coach. I am here to coach you through life's challenges and problems as well as celebrate along with you in your accomplishments and victories. I offer guidance and support in addition to knowledge, experience, skill and a listening ear. I utilize a variety of treatment modalities which include DBT, CBT, solution focused, and family systems.
I also have a special interest in grief and trauma especially the impact of sudden loss on the individual and family unit.
Hello, and thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. I believe in the power of a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. It is within this relationship that growth and change occur. I view my role in the therapeutic relationship as the coach. I am here to coach you through life's challenges and problems as well as celebrate along with you in your accomplishments and victories. I offer guidance and support in addition to knowledge, experience, skill and a listening ear. I utilize a variety of treatment modalities which include DBT, CBT, solution focused, and family systems.
(404) 438-2347 View (404) 438-2347
Photo of Jenny Clark, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I’m Jenny. As a therapist, I support individuals in their work to pursue personal growth and a better quality of life. My approach is strengths based and client led - guided by you and designed to meet your unique needs and priorities. I strive to create an authentically warm and welcoming space for you to share your thoughts and feelings free from judgment, building a platform for positive change. Together we will explore your concerns related to stress, trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, identity, and relationships.
Hi! I’m Jenny. As a therapist, I support individuals in their work to pursue personal growth and a better quality of life. My approach is strengths based and client led - guided by you and designed to meet your unique needs and priorities. I strive to create an authentically warm and welcoming space for you to share your thoughts and feelings free from judgment, building a platform for positive change. Together we will explore your concerns related to stress, trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, identity, and relationships.
(404) 941-1826 View (404) 941-1826
Photo of Hanna Rodgers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hanna Rodgers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
I work with individuals experiencing/concerned with: anxiety, grief/loss/bereavement, depression, relationship conflict, self-esteem/self-worth concerns, complex medical conditions, trauma survivorship(childhood/sexual & domestic violence/accidents) cancer, difficulty coping, divorce, infertility, LGBTQ, family planning, intimacy, & parenting concerns.
I am a Georgia licensed clinical social worker providing holistic therapy to adults, through individual therapy and group therapy. I practice within a proactive compassionate teamwork based model. If you are ready to jump in, I am right here to jump in with you. This may include homework between sessions and other ways to continue toward your goals in and out of the therapy office. Our connection and team-spiritedness is the foundation of our work together. I promise to always treat you with kindness, compassion, respect, cultural competency and unconditional positive regard.
I work with individuals experiencing/concerned with: anxiety, grief/loss/bereavement, depression, relationship conflict, self-esteem/self-worth concerns, complex medical conditions, trauma survivorship(childhood/sexual & domestic violence/accidents) cancer, difficulty coping, divorce, infertility, LGBTQ, family planning, intimacy, & parenting concerns.
I am a Georgia licensed clinical social worker providing holistic therapy to adults, through individual therapy and group therapy. I practice within a proactive compassionate teamwork based model. If you are ready to jump in, I am right here to jump in with you. This may include homework between sessions and other ways to continue toward your goals in and out of the therapy office. Our connection and team-spiritedness is the foundation of our work together. I promise to always treat you with kindness, compassion, respect, cultural competency and unconditional positive regard.
(404) 975-1143 View (404) 975-1143
Photo of Caroline Singletary, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Caroline Singletary
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
There are many reasons why you might be seeking therapy at this very moment. It could be because of a major life event- a death, a cancer diagnosis, the end of a relationship, or trauma. It could be because of a lot of small things that have accumulated over time. It could be preventative or restorative. Or it could be just because. You might be therapy-curious, or wonder if you even need therapy. Whatever has brought you to this point, I believe that the most important part of a therapeutic relationship is connection. Our first session is an opportunity to get to know each other and see whether we both feel like it’s the right fit.
There are many reasons why you might be seeking therapy at this very moment. It could be because of a major life event- a death, a cancer diagnosis, the end of a relationship, or trauma. It could be because of a lot of small things that have accumulated over time. It could be preventative or restorative. Or it could be just because. You might be therapy-curious, or wonder if you even need therapy. Whatever has brought you to this point, I believe that the most important part of a therapeutic relationship is connection. Our first session is an opportunity to get to know each other and see whether we both feel like it’s the right fit.
(470) 625-5868 View (470) 625-5868
Photo of Rebecca Anne Jones, PhD, Psychologist
Rebecca Anne Jones
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
My goal is to provide focused treatment to help you feel better quickly. You can learn skills to reduce anxiety, mood swings, and negative life patterns. We may be a good match if you are experiencing grief or loss, relationship distress, anxiety, depression, or PTSD from trauma, or if you want to increase self-care. I also work well with children of alcoholics and caregivers (w/ a loved-one with dementia or illness.) Overall, I strive to help clients become more joyful and successful with themselves and with others. I welcome clients with a range of multicultural, gender and sexual identities, and I am committed to social justice.
My goal is to provide focused treatment to help you feel better quickly. You can learn skills to reduce anxiety, mood swings, and negative life patterns. We may be a good match if you are experiencing grief or loss, relationship distress, anxiety, depression, or PTSD from trauma, or if you want to increase self-care. I also work well with children of alcoholics and caregivers (w/ a loved-one with dementia or illness.) Overall, I strive to help clients become more joyful and successful with themselves and with others. I welcome clients with a range of multicultural, gender and sexual identities, and I am committed to social justice.
(678) 931-9671 View (678) 931-9671
Photo of Chandra F Johnson, PhD, LPC, CGE, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chandra F Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CGE
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
I am a certified grief educator, and a certified grief counseling specialist.
Do you feel like you are walking alone after the loss of a loved one? Are you tired of being a bystander watching life unfold without meaning or excitement? Do you feel overwhelmed by the demands of life, relationships, work, or school? Have unfortunate circumstances threatened to get the best of you? If you answered yes to any of the above, your journey to "greater living" awaits you. I offer a safe, supportive, space for you to work, grow, and create a more fulfilling life on your terms. I will work with you to clarify your counseling goals, develop a plan to accomplish them, and acquire the insight and tools for "greater living".
I am a certified grief educator, and a certified grief counseling specialist.
Do you feel like you are walking alone after the loss of a loved one? Are you tired of being a bystander watching life unfold without meaning or excitement? Do you feel overwhelmed by the demands of life, relationships, work, or school? Have unfortunate circumstances threatened to get the best of you? If you answered yes to any of the above, your journey to "greater living" awaits you. I offer a safe, supportive, space for you to work, grow, and create a more fulfilling life on your terms. I will work with you to clarify your counseling goals, develop a plan to accomplish them, and acquire the insight and tools for "greater living".
(678) 541-7224 View (678) 541-7224
Photo of Lauren Shemain, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Shemain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I am skilled in working with clients to address issues related to anxiety and anxiety spectrum disorders, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, stress management, maternal mental health, and interpersonal struggles.
Hi, there! Thanks for visiting my page. Sometimes we may encounter times when it is hard for us to stay attuned to our authentic needs and wants. That’s where I come in - to help facilitate a process of change for my clients, by walking alongside them. I believe that everyone’s mental health is fluid and impacted by our environments and relationships. My goal is to encourage and support optimal mental health functioning and provide clients with an exploratory and safe space to delve deeper into self-understanding, acceptance, and love. My office is conveniently located in downtown Decatur.
I am skilled in working with clients to address issues related to anxiety and anxiety spectrum disorders, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, stress management, maternal mental health, and interpersonal struggles.
Hi, there! Thanks for visiting my page. Sometimes we may encounter times when it is hard for us to stay attuned to our authentic needs and wants. That’s where I come in - to help facilitate a process of change for my clients, by walking alongside them. I believe that everyone’s mental health is fluid and impacted by our environments and relationships. My goal is to encourage and support optimal mental health functioning and provide clients with an exploratory and safe space to delve deeper into self-understanding, acceptance, and love. My office is conveniently located in downtown Decatur.
(470) 329-3421 View (470) 329-3421
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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.