Grief Therapists in Scottdale, GA

Photo of Wendy Fritz, LPC, NCC, ASDCS, CAIP, ADHDCCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wendy Fritz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ASDCS, CAIP, ADHDCCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottdale, GA 30079
I provide play therapy to children ages 2-11 years who are challenged with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Anger/Behavior Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Grief/Loss. I also do parent coaching with parents of kids struggling with said challenges. Together we can work on improving executive functioning skills, social skills, increase self-esteem and self-confidence, and work to decrease anxious thoughts, obsessions and compulsions, and episodes of dysregulation.
I provide play therapy to children ages 2-11 years who are challenged with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Anger/Behavior Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Grief/Loss. I also do parent coaching with parents of kids struggling with said challenges. Together we can work on improving executive functioning skills, social skills, increase self-esteem and self-confidence, and work to decrease anxious thoughts, obsessions and compulsions, and episodes of dysregulation.
(404) 390-2765 View (404) 390-2765
Photo of Dr. Shnequia Webb, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Shnequia Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scottdale, GA 30079  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Georgia with over 15 years of experience working as a social worker and psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, communication issues, advocacy, grief and loss, and life transitions.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Georgia with over 15 years of experience working as a social worker and psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, communication issues, advocacy, grief and loss, and life transitions.
(678) 928-5799 View (678) 928-5799
Photo of Barbara Lewison, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Lewison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scottdale, GA 30079
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, &/or depressed? Are mental health concerns, family issues, & traumas, affecting your relationships? Are you feeling numb or numbing out intense feelings, emotional pain, or symptoms? Please have hope - you are not alone. Dedicated to my professional development for over 34 years, I'm motivated to help adults heal and recover from traumas, mental health & coexisting chronic medical issues, relationship conflicts & stressful life transitions. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, body-image & eating problems, grief, chronic medical illnesses, & BFRBs. Call: 706-389-0527
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, &/or depressed? Are mental health concerns, family issues, & traumas, affecting your relationships? Are you feeling numb or numbing out intense feelings, emotional pain, or symptoms? Please have hope - you are not alone. Dedicated to my professional development for over 34 years, I'm motivated to help adults heal and recover from traumas, mental health & coexisting chronic medical issues, relationship conflicts & stressful life transitions. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, body-image & eating problems, grief, chronic medical illnesses, & BFRBs. Call: 706-389-0527
(762) 214-2456 View (762) 214-2456
Photo of Adria Hickson, PsyD, Psychologist
Adria Hickson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Scottdale, GA 30079
As a licensed clinical psychologist (GA) and certified school psychologist (GA) I provide psychoeducation and mental health evaluations to children, adolescents, and adults. I also provide individual therapy to adults for depression, anxiety, grief/loss, mood disorders, stress, and life transitions. I am a client-centered therapist who seeks to meet my clients where they are but also encourages them to test the limits and build upon what they have. I believe therapy is a wonderful tool that can be used to help someone through a particularly difficult time while serving as a place to check in on progress.
As a licensed clinical psychologist (GA) and certified school psychologist (GA) I provide psychoeducation and mental health evaluations to children, adolescents, and adults. I also provide individual therapy to adults for depression, anxiety, grief/loss, mood disorders, stress, and life transitions. I am a client-centered therapist who seeks to meet my clients where they are but also encourages them to test the limits and build upon what they have. I believe therapy is a wonderful tool that can be used to help someone through a particularly difficult time while serving as a place to check in on progress.
(404) 600-0572 View (404) 600-0572
Photo of Kay Dreyer Watkins, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kay Dreyer Watkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Scottdale, GA 30079  (Online Only)
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist and have been an Army spouse since 2003. I accept clients in Virginia and Georgia. Change is constant and flexibility is a necessity. I have worked with Soldiers, military families, government workers, and civilians. I work with clients to set specific goals to work towards in a nonjudgmental, safe space. I will work with clients, focusing on your strengths. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I believe that small changes can sometimes lead to bigger changes. If things are not working for you, let's find a different way for you to move forward. Together we can find solutions.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist and have been an Army spouse since 2003. I accept clients in Virginia and Georgia. Change is constant and flexibility is a necessity. I have worked with Soldiers, military families, government workers, and civilians. I work with clients to set specific goals to work towards in a nonjudgmental, safe space. I will work with clients, focusing on your strengths. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I believe that small changes can sometimes lead to bigger changes. If things are not working for you, let's find a different way for you to move forward. Together we can find solutions.
(404) 528-1998 View (404) 528-1998
Photo of Elisabeth Bletsch, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elisabeth Bletsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scottdale, GA 30079
There are many things that may impact a person's ability to lead a full life, including challenges at work or school, relationship issues, depression and anxiety, and past traumas or losses. My goal as a therapist is to help clients move through their challenges and develop a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so they are able to live more satisfying and present lives. I do this by assisting clients in processing their feelings and identifying and connecting the things that have shaped them - including their relationships, thoughts, and attachment/trauma experiences - to their current issues.
There are many things that may impact a person's ability to lead a full life, including challenges at work or school, relationship issues, depression and anxiety, and past traumas or losses. My goal as a therapist is to help clients move through their challenges and develop a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so they are able to live more satisfying and present lives. I do this by assisting clients in processing their feelings and identifying and connecting the things that have shaped them - including their relationships, thoughts, and attachment/trauma experiences - to their current issues.
(616) 828-1992 View (616) 828-1992
Photo of Naomi Black, DEL, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Naomi Black
Licensed Professional Counselor, DEL, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottdale, GA 30079
I utilize my emotional intelligence and intuitiveness to join the journey of others and increase their fortitude to navigate through difficult challenges together. I believe that a therapeutic alliance tailored for each individual drives the momentum necessary to enhance their level of empowerment which recharges, reconnects, and reclaims their perception of happiness. We are entitled to enjoy the abundance of life and that is unlimited and determined by our terms. It is our choices that directs our path to an unapologetic abundant life.
I utilize my emotional intelligence and intuitiveness to join the journey of others and increase their fortitude to navigate through difficult challenges together. I believe that a therapeutic alliance tailored for each individual drives the momentum necessary to enhance their level of empowerment which recharges, reconnects, and reclaims their perception of happiness. We are entitled to enjoy the abundance of life and that is unlimited and determined by our terms. It is our choices that directs our path to an unapologetic abundant life.
(404) 974-3096 View (404) 974-3096
Photo of Charles Westbrook, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Charles Westbrook
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Scottdale, GA 30079
You are smart and resourceful, but your emotional difficulties and insecurities have proven to be more stubborn than other problems you've faced. Despite learning a lot about yourself through self-inquiry, reading, and prior experiences with therapy, you have once again come to the point of feeling stuck. You may feel like you are falling short of your potential. You may be exhausted yet too stressed out to rest. You may be too burnt out to work - almost as if you are broken. You may be experiencing intense feelings without obvious cause. Or maybe your relationship or parenting situation is so high-conflict that you feel hopeless.
You are smart and resourceful, but your emotional difficulties and insecurities have proven to be more stubborn than other problems you've faced. Despite learning a lot about yourself through self-inquiry, reading, and prior experiences with therapy, you have once again come to the point of feeling stuck. You may feel like you are falling short of your potential. You may be exhausted yet too stressed out to rest. You may be too burnt out to work - almost as if you are broken. You may be experiencing intense feelings without obvious cause. Or maybe your relationship or parenting situation is so high-conflict that you feel hopeless.
(404) 795-7507 View (404) 795-7507
Photo of Monique Wischusen, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monique Wischusen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottdale, GA 30079  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Session times are 9 am-12 pm M-F. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Georgia. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of New Orleans and my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern Mississippi. I also earned the TeleMental Health Training Certificate (THTC) through the completion of the comprehensive THTC program. I have training in EMDR and Internal Family Systems and also am an adjunct faculty at the University of Southern New Hampshire in the Psychology Department.
Session times are 9 am-12 pm M-F. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Georgia. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of New Orleans and my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern Mississippi. I also earned the TeleMental Health Training Certificate (THTC) through the completion of the comprehensive THTC program. I have training in EMDR and Internal Family Systems and also am an adjunct faculty at the University of Southern New Hampshire in the Psychology Department.
(404) 369-1041 View (404) 369-1041
Photo of Lauren Street, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Street
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
Scottdale, GA 30079  (Online Only)
I work with adolescents and young adults to address a wide range of emotional and interpersonal problems. My counseling approach is based on your needs, strengths and goals. I have knowledge and experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Being able to use my knowledge and experience to assist individuals in healing from negative experiences and overcoming obstacles is something that I not only am passionate about, but also have experience with.
I work with adolescents and young adults to address a wide range of emotional and interpersonal problems. My counseling approach is based on your needs, strengths and goals. I have knowledge and experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Being able to use my knowledge and experience to assist individuals in healing from negative experiences and overcoming obstacles is something that I not only am passionate about, but also have experience with.
(678) 944-7982 View (678) 944-7982
Photo of Alicia Philipp, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Philipp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Scottdale, GA 30079
Not accepting new clients
Does the thought of continuing along the same path you are currently on seem exhausting? Are you feeling down, find yourself anxious, stressed about life, struggling with relationships, and maybe not even sure why? While we can’t go back and change the past, we can start today and make a new ending. Whether you are struggling with aspects of your personal life, or your career, we can work together to help you gain understanding, implement strategies & make better choices that impact your work & personal life.
Does the thought of continuing along the same path you are currently on seem exhausting? Are you feeling down, find yourself anxious, stressed about life, struggling with relationships, and maybe not even sure why? While we can’t go back and change the past, we can start today and make a new ending. Whether you are struggling with aspects of your personal life, or your career, we can work together to help you gain understanding, implement strategies & make better choices that impact your work & personal life.
(770) 823-2563 View (770) 823-2563
Photo of Julie Coker, LPC, CPCS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Coker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Scottdale, GA 30079
Not accepting new clients
Nice to meet you! Unforeseen challenges and issues going on in the world can leave you reeling. Maybe you've been a pillar of strength to those around you but, at the same time, there seems to be no space left for you to meet your own needs. Self-critical thoughts, perfectionism and fear of falling behind can leave you feeling stuck: you want a better life for yourself and, at the same time, change seems daunting. Therapy can provide an accepting, wellness-focused environment for you to move to a place of growth and positive change.
Nice to meet you! Unforeseen challenges and issues going on in the world can leave you reeling. Maybe you've been a pillar of strength to those around you but, at the same time, there seems to be no space left for you to meet your own needs. Self-critical thoughts, perfectionism and fear of falling behind can leave you feeling stuck: you want a better life for yourself and, at the same time, change seems daunting. Therapy can provide an accepting, wellness-focused environment for you to move to a place of growth and positive change.
(678) 719-0294 View (678) 719-0294

More Therapists Nearby

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 Karen Horne, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Horne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I have over 20 years of experience and specialize in depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, substance abuse, addictions, trauma, stress management and grief and loss.
My goal as your therapist is to provide a warm, engaging, collaborative and challenging environment to help you discover your true self and live a balanced life with direction and purpose.
I have over 20 years of experience and specialize in depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, substance abuse, addictions, trauma, stress management and grief and loss.
My goal as your therapist is to provide a warm, engaging, collaborative and challenging environment to help you discover your true self and live a balanced life with direction and purpose.
(678) 771-6310 View (678) 771-6310
Photo of Jamie Fernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Fernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
I wholeheartedly believe that because the majority of our wounds occur inside relationship, healing will come through relationship as well. In our work, I can offer you warmth and empathy as we gently explore the ‘why’ behind what you do while uncovering your strength and resilience. My work with clients focuses on grief and loss, trauma, relational discord, anxiety, depression, body image, life-transitions, adoption-related issues, parenthood and the intersection of faith and spirituality with day to day living.
I wholeheartedly believe that because the majority of our wounds occur inside relationship, healing will come through relationship as well. In our work, I can offer you warmth and empathy as we gently explore the ‘why’ behind what you do while uncovering your strength and resilience. My work with clients focuses on grief and loss, trauma, relational discord, anxiety, depression, body image, life-transitions, adoption-related issues, parenthood and the intersection of faith and spirituality with day to day living.
(404) 924-4456 View (404) 924-4456
Photo of Sherita Tartt, LPC, NCC, MSMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sherita Tartt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MSMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30034  (Online Only)
I have over 10 years experience in the background of Individual Therapy, Group Therapy, Substance Abuse(Sobriety Maintenance), Children and Adolescence and Geriatrics with Developmental Disabilities, Health Management, Anger Management, Career Counseling, Issues of Grief and Depression and Trauma Issues.
Licensed in GA and South Carolina. Welcome to Pathway To H.O.M.E. (Healing, Opportunity, Motivation, Empowerment) Counseling and Wellness Services, LLC. Now offering Telehealth services. If you feel lost and need someone to help you talk through certain life issues, then I am here to help you find the right path. At Pathway, you will gain insight on yourself, find tools that help set things in motion and give you that piece of mind. Everyone deserves to be happy and have self fulfillment. When you are on the right path, you start to unlock doors to greatness. So let’s get started. Come on H.O.M.E and get to know the new "YOU!"
I have over 10 years experience in the background of Individual Therapy, Group Therapy, Substance Abuse(Sobriety Maintenance), Children and Adolescence and Geriatrics with Developmental Disabilities, Health Management, Anger Management, Career Counseling, Issues of Grief and Depression and Trauma Issues.
Licensed in GA and South Carolina. Welcome to Pathway To H.O.M.E. (Healing, Opportunity, Motivation, Empowerment) Counseling and Wellness Services, LLC. Now offering Telehealth services. If you feel lost and need someone to help you talk through certain life issues, then I am here to help you find the right path. At Pathway, you will gain insight on yourself, find tools that help set things in motion and give you that piece of mind. Everyone deserves to be happy and have self fulfillment. When you are on the right path, you start to unlock doors to greatness. So let’s get started. Come on H.O.M.E and get to know the new "YOU!"
(678) 846-6842 View (678) 846-6842
Photo of Alia Azmat, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alia Azmat
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I have extensive training in grief and loss, immigration-related trauma, gender-based violence and multicultural/liberation psychology.
Hello and welcome! If you are reading this, you might be feeling stuck, frustrated, or upset with yourself or others in your life. I am encouraged that you have started to explore your options around feeling better. Whether you are starting therapy for the first time or returning to therapy, it is normal to be curious, scared, and maybe even overwhelmed when starting with a new therapist. Given all these factors, know that I approach your life story and symptoms with curiosity, compassion, cultural context, and confidentiality.
I have extensive training in grief and loss, immigration-related trauma, gender-based violence and multicultural/liberation psychology.
Hello and welcome! If you are reading this, you might be feeling stuck, frustrated, or upset with yourself or others in your life. I am encouraged that you have started to explore your options around feeling better. Whether you are starting therapy for the first time or returning to therapy, it is normal to be curious, scared, and maybe even overwhelmed when starting with a new therapist. Given all these factors, know that I approach your life story and symptoms with curiosity, compassion, cultural context, and confidentiality.
(470) 206-2115 View (470) 206-2115
Photo of Tamara S Ashley, MS, LPC, NCC, RRT-CP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamara S Ashley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, RRT-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
RRT can also provide effective treatment for other concerns including grief, guilt, anger, anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias.
Have you been dealing with trauma, PTSD, guilt & shame, panic attacks, anxiety, or phobias? I use a gentle, effective therapy approach that can provide healing without the need to relive the emotional pain of the past. As a trauma specialist, I work with rape survivors, veterans, police and other first responders, and clients with trauma from childhood abuse, domestic violence, traumatic childbirth, car accidents, and other traumatic events.
RRT can also provide effective treatment for other concerns including grief, guilt, anger, anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias.
Have you been dealing with trauma, PTSD, guilt & shame, panic attacks, anxiety, or phobias? I use a gentle, effective therapy approach that can provide healing without the need to relive the emotional pain of the past. As a trauma specialist, I work with rape survivors, veterans, police and other first responders, and clients with trauma from childhood abuse, domestic violence, traumatic childbirth, car accidents, and other traumatic events.
(678) 929-1174 View (678) 929-1174
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 Maggie Akstin, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maggie Akstin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30033
If you struggle with anxiety, have experienced a recent significant loss, are experiencing relationship difficulties, craving vocational change, face a harsh inner critic, struggle with perfectionism, or grapple with life's essential meaning or your sense of purpose - I invite you to contact me.
My highest ambition in my work with clients is to help you to discover your own inherent strengths, resources, wisdom, and power, and to help you to cultivate compassion for yourself through mindfulness, radical self acceptance and self compassion. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, OCD, grief and loss, life transitions, family of origin issues, relationship challenges, sexual orientation and gender identity questions, vocational and existential concerns. I have training and experience working with LGBTIQ+ folk, as well as clients in non traditional relationships.
If you struggle with anxiety, have experienced a recent significant loss, are experiencing relationship difficulties, craving vocational change, face a harsh inner critic, struggle with perfectionism, or grapple with life's essential meaning or your sense of purpose - I invite you to contact me.
My highest ambition in my work with clients is to help you to discover your own inherent strengths, resources, wisdom, and power, and to help you to cultivate compassion for yourself through mindfulness, radical self acceptance and self compassion. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, OCD, grief and loss, life transitions, family of origin issues, relationship challenges, sexual orientation and gender identity questions, vocational and existential concerns. I have training and experience working with LGBTIQ+ folk, as well as clients in non traditional relationships.
(762) 200-1914 View (762) 200-1914

See more therapy options for Scottdale

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.