Therapists in Sumter County, GA
![Photo of Holly Wingate, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d314dba-dcbb-4105-8adb-494f3aeb9229/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I am Holly WIngate, a Mental Health Therapist in Georgia, Virginia, and Florida. My therapy style is based on your, the client's, needs. I am not a "cookie-cutter" therapist. My focus is mostly a focus on thoughts that are not serving you well and helping to, as quickly as we can, get you back to a healthy and happy life. My approach works and is quick, and will lead you to a life full of happiness and fun. I am comfortable with older teens and adults. I specialize in helping victims of Narcissistic and Emotional abuse understand and move on from the abuse.
Hi, I am Holly WIngate, a Mental Health Therapist in Georgia, Virginia, and Florida. My therapy style is based on your, the client's, needs. I am not a "cookie-cutter" therapist. My focus is mostly a focus on thoughts that are not serving you well and helping to, as quickly as we can, get you back to a healthy and happy life. My approach works and is quick, and will lead you to a life full of happiness and fun. I am comfortable with older teens and adults. I specialize in helping victims of Narcissistic and Emotional abuse understand and move on from the abuse.
![Photo of Marylynn M P Mohr, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d91fe8e8-7135-4f5c-8491-b861a884c0c0/1/320x400.png)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Georgia with eight years of experience. I work with a wide array of clients; from survivors of trauma to those struggling with anxiety, coping skills, depression, obsessive-compulsive (OCD), stress, trauma and PTSD, adolescents/teens, dual diagnosis, life transitions, self-esteem, and self-harming. I utilize a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). I also offer parenting assistance to parents struggling with their children's behaviors. I believe the whole family benefits from progress in therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Georgia with eight years of experience. I work with a wide array of clients; from survivors of trauma to those struggling with anxiety, coping skills, depression, obsessive-compulsive (OCD), stress, trauma and PTSD, adolescents/teens, dual diagnosis, life transitions, self-esteem, and self-harming. I utilize a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). I also offer parenting assistance to parents struggling with their children's behaviors. I believe the whole family benefits from progress in therapy.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Nichola Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ae7f4c4-3dc3-4d73-b121-e5b1489cd749/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! My name is Nichola Smith and I am the owner of Tranquility Counseling and Consulting LLC. I have over 15 years of counseling experience. I have worked with diverse clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, interpersonal conflict, self-esteem issues, problems adjusting to change/life transitions, and career challenges. I have also helped many people who have experienced trauma or emotional abuse and grief and loss.
Hi! My name is Nichola Smith and I am the owner of Tranquility Counseling and Consulting LLC. I have over 15 years of counseling experience. I have worked with diverse clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, interpersonal conflict, self-esteem issues, problems adjusting to change/life transitions, and career challenges. I have also helped many people who have experienced trauma or emotional abuse and grief and loss.
![Photo of Stephanie Westbrook - Lotus Center For Counseling and Wellness LLC, MS, LPC, CPCS , CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65e00a3c-5eef-4791-99c0-2f9ea3c5c9c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lotus Center For Counseling and Wellness LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS , CCTP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, GA 30214 (Online Only)
smoking cessation, weight loss).
Do you feel stuck, as though no matter what you do, you always end up in the same space? Do you continue on with your daily responsibilities, but don't feel fulfilled or enthusiastic about life? Every day feels the same and the things that once excited you are now memories. So what now? What's next? Do you continue down the same path or do you start making changes? Today is the day to take the first step, in the right direction and, "Create A Life That You Love."
smoking cessation, weight loss).
Do you feel stuck, as though no matter what you do, you always end up in the same space? Do you continue on with your daily responsibilities, but don't feel fulfilled or enthusiastic about life? Every day feels the same and the things that once excited you are now memories. So what now? What's next? Do you continue down the same path or do you start making changes? Today is the day to take the first step, in the right direction and, "Create A Life That You Love."
![Photo of Roselle Holcombe - Georgia Behavioral, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45c3d719-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Georgia Behavioral provides treatment for mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief/loss, ADD/ADHD, behavioral issues, school issues, personality disorders, drug and alcohol and other conditions. We also provide medication management. We are located in the heart of Warner Robins, Georgia. Our facility provides safety and privacy for patients seeking healing and recovery. Our program treats patients age 5 and older in an outpatient setting. Our staff is specially trained to address the complex needs of individuals with co-occurring disorders and to treat the whole person in a comprehensive way.
Georgia Behavioral provides treatment for mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief/loss, ADD/ADHD, behavioral issues, school issues, personality disorders, drug and alcohol and other conditions. We also provide medication management. We are located in the heart of Warner Robins, Georgia. Our facility provides safety and privacy for patients seeking healing and recovery. Our program treats patients age 5 and older in an outpatient setting. Our staff is specially trained to address the complex needs of individuals with co-occurring disorders and to treat the whole person in a comprehensive way.
![Photo of Heather Merritt, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/760cb4d8-7764-477b-b172-8873fd9d7b1d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Merritt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Macon, GA 31204
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 23 years of experience in the field, 15 of which have been in counseling. I assist clients with issues surrounding self-esteem, body image, anxiety, depression and eating disorders. I also assist clients struggling with relationship issues and divorce. I have extensive experience in grief counseling and supporting clients as they process loss. I am passionate about helping others love themselves, take care of their bodies, and find freedom from societal standards!!
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 23 years of experience in the field, 15 of which have been in counseling. I assist clients with issues surrounding self-esteem, body image, anxiety, depression and eating disorders. I also assist clients struggling with relationship issues and divorce. I have extensive experience in grief counseling and supporting clients as they process loss. I am passionate about helping others love themselves, take care of their bodies, and find freedom from societal standards!!
![Photo of Cg Jefferson, LPC, NCC, MAC, CCTP, CAMS11, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82882156-faa9-4915-89d6-98027ab0f3c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cg Jefferson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MAC, CCTP, CAMS11
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31901 (Online Only)
I provide support for anxiety, ADHD, depression, anger, grief/loss, recovery/sobriety and men/women relationship concerns.
Hi, I'm "CG" Jefferson, I am excited to work with you! I’m LPC with over 23+ years of experience. I am patient, transparent and spiritual. I am well experienced and culturally competent. My primary focus is “Individual Therapy” No EAP-Adults 28+ & seniors. My “virtual practice” is Not a good fit for Couples, Chronic-MH, Personality Dis.-OCD/Tics, Psychosis-A/V/T Hallucinations, Bipolar, MR, SI/HI & atheist. If you are ready for self-discovery, grounded in "Truth and Facts" contact me to explore stressors, communication, overthinking, social/coping skills, relationship-personal/family probs. financial difficulties & lack of intimacy.
I provide support for anxiety, ADHD, depression, anger, grief/loss, recovery/sobriety and men/women relationship concerns.
Hi, I'm "CG" Jefferson, I am excited to work with you! I’m LPC with over 23+ years of experience. I am patient, transparent and spiritual. I am well experienced and culturally competent. My primary focus is “Individual Therapy” No EAP-Adults 28+ & seniors. My “virtual practice” is Not a good fit for Couples, Chronic-MH, Personality Dis.-OCD/Tics, Psychosis-A/V/T Hallucinations, Bipolar, MR, SI/HI & atheist. If you are ready for self-discovery, grounded in "Truth and Facts" contact me to explore stressors, communication, overthinking, social/coping skills, relationship-personal/family probs. financial difficulties & lack of intimacy.
![Photo of Lynn Burke Lynn Burke, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44412ad0-473c-413b-8415-8937a000975f/1/320x400.png)
I'm a licensed professional counselor and a master's addiction counselor with over 20 years in the field. I focus on depression, anxiety, loss, addiction, bipolar disorder, and relationship problems. I use a mix of motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness, cognitive processing therapy, pastoral counseling, and trauma-informed care. I've worked with students, professors, prisoners, addicts, survivors, vets, and parents, to name just a few. I'm confident we can find common ground to work together.
I'm a licensed professional counselor and a master's addiction counselor with over 20 years in the field. I focus on depression, anxiety, loss, addiction, bipolar disorder, and relationship problems. I use a mix of motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness, cognitive processing therapy, pastoral counseling, and trauma-informed care. I've worked with students, professors, prisoners, addicts, survivors, vets, and parents, to name just a few. I'm confident we can find common ground to work together.
![Photo of Leah C. McMillan, DPA, LMFT, CFRC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a083b393-c23c-4c55-8aed-8e0cfcb1b89a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leah C. McMillan
Marriage & Family Therapist, DPA, LMFT, CFRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31602
My areas of specialty focus/expertise are PTSD/trauma, intimate partner violence, sexual assault/rape, child abuse, grief, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, couple/marital, divorce/co-parenting, & vicarious traumatization.
I have extensive clinical experience, 20 years+, working in the trauma-related, mental health, and counseling fields. I have been clinically licensed as a LMFT since 2006 and am an active member (clinical fellow) of AAMFT/GAMFT. My clinical path has allowed me to gain significant knowledge and experience in the field of mental health & counseling, clinical consultation, and speaking. I provide ongoing counseling in the areas of individual (children, adolescents, and adults), family, marital/couple/pre-marital, and group therapy. In addition, I am EMDR Trained and obtained my certification as a Certified First Responder Counselor.
My areas of specialty focus/expertise are PTSD/trauma, intimate partner violence, sexual assault/rape, child abuse, grief, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, couple/marital, divorce/co-parenting, & vicarious traumatization.
I have extensive clinical experience, 20 years+, working in the trauma-related, mental health, and counseling fields. I have been clinically licensed as a LMFT since 2006 and am an active member (clinical fellow) of AAMFT/GAMFT. My clinical path has allowed me to gain significant knowledge and experience in the field of mental health & counseling, clinical consultation, and speaking. I provide ongoing counseling in the areas of individual (children, adolescents, and adults), family, marital/couple/pre-marital, and group therapy. In addition, I am EMDR Trained and obtained my certification as a Certified First Responder Counselor.
![Photo of Nicole Jarman, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95b1a7ba-08ea-4ab0-a4ba-d79ae3e5596f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Does your child have difficulty managing those ‘big feelings’? Do you notice changes in their mood or behaviors? Sometimes it’s hard for children to put their thoughts and emotions into words which often leads to confusion, frustration, fear, or anxiety for caregivers. It’s even harder for children and teens to understand it themselves! I love to imagine kids like smaller humans- they experience the same feelings of sadness, anger, grief, anxiety, fear, and happiness that we as adults do! Children, adolescents, and teens deserve support and guidance too.
Does your child have difficulty managing those ‘big feelings’? Do you notice changes in their mood or behaviors? Sometimes it’s hard for children to put their thoughts and emotions into words which often leads to confusion, frustration, fear, or anxiety for caregivers. It’s even harder for children and teens to understand it themselves! I love to imagine kids like smaller humans- they experience the same feelings of sadness, anger, grief, anxiety, fear, and happiness that we as adults do! Children, adolescents, and teens deserve support and guidance too.
![Photo of Julie Johnston, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b6fbaa-3d99-4698-8ca7-eb8739e3dc68/5/320x400.png)
Julie Johnston
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Peachtree City, GA 30269
Adults: Anxiety, depression, grief & loss, intergenerational trauma, emotional growth, effective boundaries, work/life balance.
Julie received her bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. She earned her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy at Capella University. Julie currently works with young adults, adults, and couples. Her collaborative style focuses on the goals of the client, cultivating a space for growth, and understanding of the client’s lived experience. Julie’s therapeutic approach is grounded in emotionally focused and collaborative theory which allows her to tailor treatment to individual needs within a wide scope of client demographics including LGBTQIA+, gender diverse individuals, and CNM partners.
Adults: Anxiety, depression, grief & loss, intergenerational trauma, emotional growth, effective boundaries, work/life balance.
Julie received her bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. She earned her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy at Capella University. Julie currently works with young adults, adults, and couples. Her collaborative style focuses on the goals of the client, cultivating a space for growth, and understanding of the client’s lived experience. Julie’s therapeutic approach is grounded in emotionally focused and collaborative theory which allows her to tailor treatment to individual needs within a wide scope of client demographics including LGBTQIA+, gender diverse individuals, and CNM partners.
![Photo of Shanice Rice, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cdea4c4-c2ba-4733-ba66-d1ecb065255f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling stuck mentally and emotionally? Are you struggling with your sense of self and finding ways to make yourself a priority without feeling like your letting down those closest to you? As a Licensed therapist, I specialize in helping adults transform their lives by addressing and identifying problematic patterns, traumas and stressors reducing their quality of life through both spiritual and therapeutic interventions. I believe that there's a you that you have yet to discover. My approach is individualized and I utilize CBT, Mindfulness, DBT to address things like anxiety, depression, identity, and grief.
Are you feeling stuck mentally and emotionally? Are you struggling with your sense of self and finding ways to make yourself a priority without feeling like your letting down those closest to you? As a Licensed therapist, I specialize in helping adults transform their lives by addressing and identifying problematic patterns, traumas and stressors reducing their quality of life through both spiritual and therapeutic interventions. I believe that there's a you that you have yet to discover. My approach is individualized and I utilize CBT, Mindfulness, DBT to address things like anxiety, depression, identity, and grief.
![Photo of Kay Hill Stargill, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef2d84d8-6f0f-4831-b83a-e9fddedc7d82/2/320x400.jpeg)
Though trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, my humanistic background is the foundation for my belief that true healing occurs within relationships. Because I value the power of relationship, I want you to know that I have personally experienced hard things too. My own experiences with anxiety, loss and trauma all contribute to my caring, compassionate and personalized approach in therapy. I also believe that every behavior has a purpose and a payoff. If we can understand what drives the behavior, then we can begin work on strategies that will develop new skills to help you.
Though trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, my humanistic background is the foundation for my belief that true healing occurs within relationships. Because I value the power of relationship, I want you to know that I have personally experienced hard things too. My own experiences with anxiety, loss and trauma all contribute to my caring, compassionate and personalized approach in therapy. I also believe that every behavior has a purpose and a payoff. If we can understand what drives the behavior, then we can begin work on strategies that will develop new skills to help you.
![Photo of David Manuel, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca569290-c4fb-4a99-b52e-ed7524479d98/1/320x400.png)
Hello, I'm David Manuel Ed.S LPC, NCC. I have facilitated therapy with clients for almost 4 years. My approach to therapy is eclectic. I have extended experience working in mental health, including various clinics, hospitals, and virtual settings. My clients are aged 5 yr- 64 yr. I see clients for Depression, Anxiety, Career Counseling, Anger, Grief, Men Issues, Women's Issues, and Stress. Working with clients ages 5 yrs to 64 yrs allows me to work with clients with various conditions, including depression, anxiety, stress, career questioning, grief, loss, school issues, peer-related adjustment, men's issues, and women's issues.
Hello, I'm David Manuel Ed.S LPC, NCC. I have facilitated therapy with clients for almost 4 years. My approach to therapy is eclectic. I have extended experience working in mental health, including various clinics, hospitals, and virtual settings. My clients are aged 5 yr- 64 yr. I see clients for Depression, Anxiety, Career Counseling, Anger, Grief, Men Issues, Women's Issues, and Stress. Working with clients ages 5 yrs to 64 yrs allows me to work with clients with various conditions, including depression, anxiety, stress, career questioning, grief, loss, school issues, peer-related adjustment, men's issues, and women's issues.
![Photo of Alicia Seymour, NCC, ATR-P, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da07ab66-43dd-4878-a85f-0cba7245de39/1/320x400.jpeg)
As the author of the upcoming internationally published book Artful Grieving (Jessica Kingsley Publishers), I am on the cutting edge of combining art therapy techniques with traditional grief counseling to address all losses.
Services are anchored in acceptance of the individual regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, or religious/spiritual beliefs. My goal in starting my own practice was to create a space where everyone felt welcome and free to be themselves. Recognizing that no two people are the same, services are customized to meet the unique needs of the individual.
As the author of the upcoming internationally published book Artful Grieving (Jessica Kingsley Publishers), I am on the cutting edge of combining art therapy techniques with traditional grief counseling to address all losses.
Services are anchored in acceptance of the individual regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, or religious/spiritual beliefs. My goal in starting my own practice was to create a space where everyone felt welcome and free to be themselves. Recognizing that no two people are the same, services are customized to meet the unique needs of the individual.
![Photo of Rebecca Short, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2523ccb-df9b-4123-b363-52c7e6746901/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Short
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Columbus, GA 31901 (Online Only)
I also have a special connection with those experiencing grief, facing terminal illness, those involved in caregiving of family members, and those coping with chronic pain in their own lives, especially fibromyalgia.
My ideal client is you. You are on a journey of self-discovery and healing that has led you to this site and my profile. You are courageous, brave, and determined to make meaning in your life. You are tired of hurting. You are looking for someone to accompany you on this journey who understands what it’s like to be in your shoes and honors that knowledge with empathy and respect. It would be a privilege to be that person to accompany you.
I also have a special connection with those experiencing grief, facing terminal illness, those involved in caregiving of family members, and those coping with chronic pain in their own lives, especially fibromyalgia.
My ideal client is you. You are on a journey of self-discovery and healing that has led you to this site and my profile. You are courageous, brave, and determined to make meaning in your life. You are tired of hurting. You are looking for someone to accompany you on this journey who understands what it’s like to be in your shoes and honors that knowledge with empathy and respect. It would be a privilege to be that person to accompany you.
![Photo of Michelle Alden - Michelle Alden Counseling Services, MS, LPC, NCC, CAMS, II, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e0de50e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Alden Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CAMS, II
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31605
I am a fully licensed, bilingual clinician working with a diverse population. Since 2010, I have worked with Adolescents and Children as well as with families, and groups. The populations were diverse anywhere from depression, multiple personalities, trauma victims, alcohol abuse, physical/emotional and sexual abuse, anxiety, anger management, self-mutilators, bipolar, bullying victims, OCD, conduct/Oppositional, some eating disorders, grief self-esteem to name a few.
I am a fully licensed, bilingual clinician working with a diverse population. Since 2010, I have worked with Adolescents and Children as well as with families, and groups. The populations were diverse anywhere from depression, multiple personalities, trauma victims, alcohol abuse, physical/emotional and sexual abuse, anxiety, anger management, self-mutilators, bipolar, bullying victims, OCD, conduct/Oppositional, some eating disorders, grief self-esteem to name a few.
![Photo of Abby Leedy, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3dbc93e-5abd-4bd0-b321-364be239b1f6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Abby Leedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peachtree City, GA 30269
Hi I’m Abby! I work with children (ages 5 and up), adolescents, and adults, and have experience working with many different challenges including ADHD, Autism, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and self-harm as well as providing support for parents and family therapy.
Hi I’m Abby! I work with children (ages 5 and up), adolescents, and adults, and have experience working with many different challenges including ADHD, Autism, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and self-harm as well as providing support for parents and family therapy.
![Photo of Rochely Terrón - HOPE Virtual Counseling & Therapy - Healing Online, MS, LPC, LMHC, CFRC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7468b677-ab1b-48d5-ada8-d5de4b2fc0f5/1/320x400.png)
HOPE Virtual Counseling & Therapy - Healing Online
Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC, CFRC
Verified Verified
Byron, GA 31008 (Online Only)
I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor with 20+ years experience in treating issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, family issues, grief, behavior problems and many other problems that people may be experiencing. I work with clients from diverse ethnic backgrounds and different sexual orientations. I have a unique, interdisciplinary background. The well-being of my clients is my biggest passion. I am committed to helping people avoid negative consequences in their lives and resolve their issues and internal conflict sensibly, effectively, and compassionately.
I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor with 20+ years experience in treating issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, family issues, grief, behavior problems and many other problems that people may be experiencing. I work with clients from diverse ethnic backgrounds and different sexual orientations. I have a unique, interdisciplinary background. The well-being of my clients is my biggest passion. I am committed to helping people avoid negative consequences in their lives and resolve their issues and internal conflict sensibly, effectively, and compassionately.
![Photo of Lynn Burke Reyes, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eae0a410-42e4-4993-b5b0-e3501db812e5/1/320x400.png)
I'm a licensed professional counselor and a master's addiction counselor with over 20 years in the field. I focus on depression, anxiety, loss, addiction, bipolar disorder, and relationship problems. I use a mix of motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness, cognitive processing therapy, pastoral counseling, and trauma-informed care. I've worked with students, professors, prisoners, addicts, survivors, vets, and parents, to name just a few. I'm confident we can find common ground to work together.
I'm a licensed professional counselor and a master's addiction counselor with over 20 years in the field. I focus on depression, anxiety, loss, addiction, bipolar disorder, and relationship problems. I use a mix of motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness, cognitive processing therapy, pastoral counseling, and trauma-informed care. I've worked with students, professors, prisoners, addicts, survivors, vets, and parents, to name just a few. I'm confident we can find common ground to work together.
See more therapy options for Sumter County
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.