Grief Therapists in Birmingham, MI

Photo of Melinda Abernathy-Pippel, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Melinda Abernathy-Pippel
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
I have extensive experience working with bereavement, panic attacks, OCD, sexual abuse and LGBTQ issues.
Are anxiety and depression ruling your life? Is everyday a struggle? I am a licensed counselor with experience who can transform your life for the better. I work with clients facing intimate relationship issues, bereavement, severe anxiety and depression. I am compassionate and possess the tools to create positive change in your life. I come from the perspective that everyone has a story to tell and deserves a place where it can be safely heard. My mission is to work with clients in a highly attuned and deeply caring way. I am also trained in EMDR for clients with trauma to help bring balance to their lives.
I have extensive experience working with bereavement, panic attacks, OCD, sexual abuse and LGBTQ issues.
Are anxiety and depression ruling your life? Is everyday a struggle? I am a licensed counselor with experience who can transform your life for the better. I work with clients facing intimate relationship issues, bereavement, severe anxiety and depression. I am compassionate and possess the tools to create positive change in your life. I come from the perspective that everyone has a story to tell and deserves a place where it can be safely heard. My mission is to work with clients in a highly attuned and deeply caring way. I am also trained in EMDR for clients with trauma to help bring balance to their lives.
(248) 714-0755 View (248) 714-0755
Photo of Dr. David R Dietrich, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. David R Dietrich
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
My book The Problem of Loss and Mourning (1989) grew from my experience as a psychologist and I describe we all experience losses.
As a very highly trained therapist I am compassionately and deeply interested in helping you. If you are having issues and suffering I believe I can help you. As a Training Analyst at the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute (I treat/ supervise psychologists/psychiatrists) when you begin therapy or analysis with me a powerful therapeutic process is activated leading to less suffering and to greater psychological liberation. Most clients/patients are successful and well-off and educated and self referred (or referred by their physician or a mental health professional). To make an appointment call my office (248) 646-6515.
My book The Problem of Loss and Mourning (1989) grew from my experience as a psychologist and I describe we all experience losses.
As a very highly trained therapist I am compassionately and deeply interested in helping you. If you are having issues and suffering I believe I can help you. As a Training Analyst at the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute (I treat/ supervise psychologists/psychiatrists) when you begin therapy or analysis with me a powerful therapeutic process is activated leading to less suffering and to greater psychological liberation. Most clients/patients are successful and well-off and educated and self referred (or referred by their physician or a mental health professional). To make an appointment call my office (248) 646-6515.
(248) 646-6515 View (248) 646-6515
Photo of Trudy Adler, LMSW, MPA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Trudy Adler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMSW, MPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
If you struggle with or have a number of tough decisions to make, are caregiving, grieving, and have a lack of energy - I may be the right therapist for you! I utilize a strengths-based approach, which typically uses tools that are readily available to you. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, while challenging you to reach your goals. What also sets me apart is my personal and professional experience with loss, grief, trauma, health challenges and depression paired with my understanding that those experiences are different for everyone. I am licensed in FL, MI, OH, VT.
If you struggle with or have a number of tough decisions to make, are caregiving, grieving, and have a lack of energy - I may be the right therapist for you! I utilize a strengths-based approach, which typically uses tools that are readily available to you. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, while challenging you to reach your goals. What also sets me apart is my personal and professional experience with loss, grief, trauma, health challenges and depression paired with my understanding that those experiences are different for everyone. I am licensed in FL, MI, OH, VT.
(248) 940-3305 View (248) 940-3305
Photo of Melissa Beach, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Beach
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
You are seeking to become the best version of yourself that is in true alignment with your inner being. You may be struggling with: anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationship and or, couples concerns, grief and loss, and low self-esteem. You yearn to deepen the understanding of yourself and the relationships you keep or have let go of. Life offers stages of change, loss and transformation, and we often find ourselves surrendering to merely being. You may get caught up in the day to day tasks and easily forget to take time to pause and reflect on what is really happening on the inside.
You are seeking to become the best version of yourself that is in true alignment with your inner being. You may be struggling with: anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationship and or, couples concerns, grief and loss, and low self-esteem. You yearn to deepen the understanding of yourself and the relationships you keep or have let go of. Life offers stages of change, loss and transformation, and we often find ourselves surrendering to merely being. You may get caught up in the day to day tasks and easily forget to take time to pause and reflect on what is really happening on the inside.
(805) 424-5740 View (805) 424-5740
Photo of Karen Bashawaty, MA, LPC, Counselor
Karen Bashawaty
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
Since every client is unique, I tailor my therapeutic approach to complement each client's individual personality, inviting them into a safe and accepting environment where they are met with respect and empathic concern. As a Radical Forgiveness Therapy Practitioner, I help clients accomplish the often difficult task of forgiveness, freeing them from long held anger and hurt. I'm trained in a highly effective treatment for trauma, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing),generating remarkable results with adults and couples, struggling with marital or relationship issues, phobias, anxiety, depression, poor self-esteem, work issues, or grief and loss.
Since every client is unique, I tailor my therapeutic approach to complement each client's individual personality, inviting them into a safe and accepting environment where they are met with respect and empathic concern. As a Radical Forgiveness Therapy Practitioner, I help clients accomplish the often difficult task of forgiveness, freeing them from long held anger and hurt. I'm trained in a highly effective treatment for trauma, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing),generating remarkable results with adults and couples, struggling with marital or relationship issues, phobias, anxiety, depression, poor self-esteem, work issues, or grief and loss.
(248) 383-5966 View (248) 383-5966
Photo of Tricia Lugger, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Tricia Lugger
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
I work with a diverse clientele of individuals on grief/ bereavement, anxiety, chronic pain, depression, life changes, childhood and adult trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sexual abuse, substance abuse and sexuality issues (LGBTQ).
The single most important factor in successful psychotherapy is the relationship between client and therapist; effective therapy starts from the moment you call or email. If you feel unsure, please contact me about setting up your first appointment.
I work with a diverse clientele of individuals on grief/ bereavement, anxiety, chronic pain, depression, life changes, childhood and adult trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sexual abuse, substance abuse and sexuality issues (LGBTQ).
The single most important factor in successful psychotherapy is the relationship between client and therapist; effective therapy starts from the moment you call or email. If you feel unsure, please contact me about setting up your first appointment.
(248) 461-3642 View (248) 461-3642
Photo of Ellen Craine - Craine Counseling and Consulting Group, JD, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Craine Counseling and Consulting Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
I am a licensed master's level Social Worker in the State of Michigan with a law degree. I provide social work ethics consultations, case assessments to attorneys in social work ethics cases and family law cases. Other services include: counseling services for individuals, couples, and families related to loss and grief as the result of death, illness or divorce and adjustment issues. I have over 25 years of experience in working with families and over 20 years of experience as a divorce and family mediator! In addition, I offer a variety of social work workshops. Class listings available on my website www.crainecounseling.com
I am a licensed master's level Social Worker in the State of Michigan with a law degree. I provide social work ethics consultations, case assessments to attorneys in social work ethics cases and family law cases. Other services include: counseling services for individuals, couples, and families related to loss and grief as the result of death, illness or divorce and adjustment issues. I have over 25 years of experience in working with families and over 20 years of experience as a divorce and family mediator! In addition, I offer a variety of social work workshops. Class listings available on my website www.crainecounseling.com
(248) 639-4144 View (248) 639-4144
Photo of Marie A Fox, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marie A Fox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
Are you someone who is ready to move in a new direction, release past hurts, overcome lifelong challenges? Are you struggling with addiction, depression, grief, anxiety, a trauma history or life transitions such as divorce, job loss, graduation, marriage or new parenthood? Maybe anger and stress or medical diagnosis are your challenge. If so, I can help. We will work together to help you find your way through this time in your life, to find more balance, ease and peace within yourself and your relationships.
Are you someone who is ready to move in a new direction, release past hurts, overcome lifelong challenges? Are you struggling with addiction, depression, grief, anxiety, a trauma history or life transitions such as divorce, job loss, graduation, marriage or new parenthood? Maybe anger and stress or medical diagnosis are your challenge. If so, I can help. We will work together to help you find your way through this time in your life, to find more balance, ease and peace within yourself and your relationships.
(248) 450-5206 View (248) 450-5206
Photo of Michelle Stinnett, LPC, NCC, CAADC, Counselor
Michelle Stinnett
Counselor, LPC, NCC, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
Lastly, I am a Certified Grief Educator, trained by David Kessler at grief.
I am a warm and caring Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who is concerned with promoting change in the life of adults. I have a special interest in promoting healing and change with those with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, grief and loss and substance abuse. My therapy approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-focused Therapy (SFT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (CBT). I am dedicated to teach, coach, encourage and support those who are willing to take the journey to improve their quality of life. CHANGE IS POSSIBLE!!!
Lastly, I am a Certified Grief Educator, trained by David Kessler at grief.
I am a warm and caring Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who is concerned with promoting change in the life of adults. I have a special interest in promoting healing and change with those with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, grief and loss and substance abuse. My therapy approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-focused Therapy (SFT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (CBT). I am dedicated to teach, coach, encourage and support those who are willing to take the journey to improve their quality of life. CHANGE IS POSSIBLE!!!
(586) 782-3384 View (586) 782-3384
Photo of Donna Marie Widman, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donna Marie Widman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
I have experience in working with issues related to depression, anxiety, grief and loss, bipolar, self-esteem, chronic health concerns, and self-exploration.
A trusting therapeutic relationship is essential for successful therapy. It is my goal to develop strong working relationships with my clients based on creating an environment that is comfortable, open, and judgment free. A supportive environment for clients will help to promote overall wellness, hope, growth, and insight as clients develop new tools for meaningful change and growth.
I have experience in working with issues related to depression, anxiety, grief and loss, bipolar, self-esteem, chronic health concerns, and self-exploration.
A trusting therapeutic relationship is essential for successful therapy. It is my goal to develop strong working relationships with my clients based on creating an environment that is comfortable, open, and judgment free. A supportive environment for clients will help to promote overall wellness, hope, growth, and insight as clients develop new tools for meaningful change and growth.
(248) 834-2591 View (248) 834-2591
Photo of Troy Amber, MA, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Troy Amber
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
Do you feel that contemporary life has taken a toll on you, especially with stressful life events and your many obligations? Are you facing challenges that are hard to deal with? I specialize in anxiety, panic, depression, stress, trauma, substance use, anger, relationships, and grief. My goal is to help you alleviate your symptoms. I strive to consistently build trust and safety in our communications and in our therapeutic relationship.
Do you feel that contemporary life has taken a toll on you, especially with stressful life events and your many obligations? Are you facing challenges that are hard to deal with? I specialize in anxiety, panic, depression, stress, trauma, substance use, anger, relationships, and grief. My goal is to help you alleviate your symptoms. I strive to consistently build trust and safety in our communications and in our therapeutic relationship.
(248) 965-5148 View (248) 965-5148
Photo of Early Wellness Group - Early Wellness Group, MSW, LMSW, CTP-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Early Wellness Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, CTP-C
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
Our practice specializes in child, adolescent and adult grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, and depression, family therapy, couples therapy, and more.
Have you noticed increased stress, overwhelming emotions or moods, difficulty with school or work after the pandemic, or other emotional, social, or behavioral changes? Maybe you have wondered if it would be beneficial to work with someone. Therapy can help you, your child, your teen, and your family. Our goal at Early Wellness Group is to provide our clients with the tools they need to support life-long mental health practices. These are applicable tools used to return to a place of stability, balance, and joy throughout your lives.
Our practice specializes in child, adolescent and adult grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, and depression, family therapy, couples therapy, and more.
Have you noticed increased stress, overwhelming emotions or moods, difficulty with school or work after the pandemic, or other emotional, social, or behavioral changes? Maybe you have wondered if it would be beneficial to work with someone. Therapy can help you, your child, your teen, and your family. Our goal at Early Wellness Group is to provide our clients with the tools they need to support life-long mental health practices. These are applicable tools used to return to a place of stability, balance, and joy throughout your lives.
(313) 217-6072 View (313) 217-6072
Photo of Paige Moore, LMSW, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paige Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
Is there something holding you back from living the life you want? Do you feel anxious, depressed, uncertain, fearful or confused as to how to move forward? Do you hope to change an aspect of your life but you don’t know where to start? The journey of therapy can be a powerful tool to help you move through and uncover some of these obstacles and propel you towards the life that you have imagined. While I commonly see people facing life adjustments, anxiety, or depression, some other common themes include grief, self-acceptance, relationship concerns, chronic illness, and perinatal/ postpartum mental health concerns.
Is there something holding you back from living the life you want? Do you feel anxious, depressed, uncertain, fearful or confused as to how to move forward? Do you hope to change an aspect of your life but you don’t know where to start? The journey of therapy can be a powerful tool to help you move through and uncover some of these obstacles and propel you towards the life that you have imagined. While I commonly see people facing life adjustments, anxiety, or depression, some other common themes include grief, self-acceptance, relationship concerns, chronic illness, and perinatal/ postpartum mental health concerns.
(248) 422-1808 View (248) 422-1808
Photo of David J Schwartz, PhD, Psychologist
David J Schwartz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
My experience includes working with; depression, panic attacks, generalized anxiety, OCD, grief, ADHD, developmental disabilities, and behavior problems in children, to name a few.
Thank you for your interest in my services. I am a fully licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have significant experience in working with a wide variety of clients, treatment issues, and treatment styles. As a result I am able to tailor my therapeutic style to fit the specific needs of each individual or family. I am an active participant in the treatment process and view the therapeutic relationship as a 'team', where we work together to find solutions that are right for you.
My experience includes working with; depression, panic attacks, generalized anxiety, OCD, grief, ADHD, developmental disabilities, and behavior problems in children, to name a few.
Thank you for your interest in my services. I am a fully licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have significant experience in working with a wide variety of clients, treatment issues, and treatment styles. As a result I am able to tailor my therapeutic style to fit the specific needs of each individual or family. I am an active participant in the treatment process and view the therapeutic relationship as a 'team', where we work together to find solutions that are right for you.
(248) 220-7315 View (248) 220-7315
Photo of Sylvia Delgado, MS, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Sylvia Delgado
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
Services I offer therapy and analysis for a wide range of psychological concerns. In my practice, each treatment is tailored to meet each client's unique needs. I most often address anxiety and fears, relationship and behavioral issues, depression, family conflict, loss or grief, self-esteem. I am also able to help with career counseling, divorce, and emotional disturbances. I have helped treat certain difficulties, such as Attention Deficit (ADHD), Trauma and PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality, and Mood Disorders.; Ofrezco servicios en ESPANOL. Terapia y psicoanalysis para ayudar a una gama amplia de dificultades psicologicas y emocionales. Soy Bilingue y versada en problemas biculturales.
Services I offer therapy and analysis for a wide range of psychological concerns. In my practice, each treatment is tailored to meet each client's unique needs. I most often address anxiety and fears, relationship and behavioral issues, depression, family conflict, loss or grief, self-esteem. I am also able to help with career counseling, divorce, and emotional disturbances. I have helped treat certain difficulties, such as Attention Deficit (ADHD), Trauma and PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality, and Mood Disorders.; Ofrezco servicios en ESPANOL. Terapia y psicoanalysis para ayudar a una gama amplia de dificultades psicologicas y emocionales. Soy Bilingue y versada en problemas biculturales.
(248) 850-2303 View (248) 850-2303
Photo of Emily Szabla, MA, LLPC, RYT, Counselor
Emily Szabla
Counselor, MA, LLPC, RYT
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
I specialize in Young Adult Females, and my areas of particular focus include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, relationship issues, grief & loss, life transitions, mood disorders, body image issues, and women's issues.
My hope is that I'll make it a safe enough place for you to feel good about taking that first step in your very own journey of growth and exploration.. It can be easy to fall into a pattern of anxious or depressed moods, feeling like you don't fit in, or struggling to adjust to changing environments or relationships. I strive to produce an environment where you feel validated, heard, and empowered so that together we find a better way to move through this world as well as possible.
I specialize in Young Adult Females, and my areas of particular focus include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, relationship issues, grief & loss, life transitions, mood disorders, body image issues, and women's issues.
My hope is that I'll make it a safe enough place for you to feel good about taking that first step in your very own journey of growth and exploration.. It can be easy to fall into a pattern of anxious or depressed moods, feeling like you don't fit in, or struggling to adjust to changing environments or relationships. I strive to produce an environment where you feel validated, heard, and empowered so that together we find a better way to move through this world as well as possible.
(269) 257-7182 View (269) 257-7182
Photo of Katie Dines, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Dines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with dealing with the storms of life? Please know - you are not alone! Many of us experience challenges, yet oftentimes it's difficult to find a safe person and space to express these concerns without being judged. Life changes constantly! Every day events leave you feeling overwhelmed, drained and unmotivated. Even every day activities seem to be extremely difficult. Constant demands of family, work and relationships are stressful, and you know it’s time to make some changes. Losses of all kinds (the loss of a loved one, job, or relationship), can trigger a mirage of emotions or feelings of lack of control.
Are you struggling with dealing with the storms of life? Please know - you are not alone! Many of us experience challenges, yet oftentimes it's difficult to find a safe person and space to express these concerns without being judged. Life changes constantly! Every day events leave you feeling overwhelmed, drained and unmotivated. Even every day activities seem to be extremely difficult. Constant demands of family, work and relationships are stressful, and you know it’s time to make some changes. Losses of all kinds (the loss of a loved one, job, or relationship), can trigger a mirage of emotions or feelings of lack of control.
(248) 780-1898 View (248) 780-1898
Photo of Cally Kantarian, MA, LLP, MLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Cally Kantarian
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, MLP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
Waitlist for new clients
I see clients with a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, transitions, and relationship issues.
EVERY human deserves a place in which they can feel safe, un-judged, and respected. Within that safety comes true growth, understanding, realization and acceptance for yourself and your story. I hope to walk with you on your personal journey in finding the grace and compassion to find your authentic self.
I see clients with a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, transitions, and relationship issues.
EVERY human deserves a place in which they can feel safe, un-judged, and respected. Within that safety comes true growth, understanding, realization and acceptance for yourself and your story. I hope to walk with you on your personal journey in finding the grace and compassion to find your authentic self.
(248) 988-3015 View (248) 988-3015
Photo of Alexis Stone, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
These include issues with anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, and other mental health issues that interfere with daily functioning and enjoyment.
Are you looking for change, and seeking your happier self, healthier partnership, or assistance for a child? Then I am here to help you identify problem areas, learn to effectively communicate with others, learn to set limits, and improve overall well-being. I provide a person centered approach in a supportive, welcoming, and confidential environment. I do not believe in one approach fits all therapy. I offer a wide array of best-practices, evidence-based approaches that are adjusted to address individual needs. I am committed to helping you heal in a way that brings lasting changes.
These include issues with anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, and other mental health issues that interfere with daily functioning and enjoyment.
Are you looking for change, and seeking your happier self, healthier partnership, or assistance for a child? Then I am here to help you identify problem areas, learn to effectively communicate with others, learn to set limits, and improve overall well-being. I provide a person centered approach in a supportive, welcoming, and confidential environment. I do not believe in one approach fits all therapy. I offer a wide array of best-practices, evidence-based approaches that are adjusted to address individual needs. I am committed to helping you heal in a way that brings lasting changes.
(248) 282-4247 View (248) 282-4247
Photo of Pamela H. Minelli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela H. Minelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
Client needs are my FIRST priority. I am a specialist in evidence-based treatments (EBT), which radically improves my client's success rates, increases effectiveness of treatment, and gets results quickly. The majority of my client's report improvements, within the first session: life-functioning (work- home-school-relationships) and report immediate reduction in symptoms. Reducing anxiety/panic, decreasing depression, developing stronger coping strategies to stress and balancing mood dysregulation are my specialty, as symptoms can result from adjustment challenges to sudden life changes: parenthood/divorce/ grief/college. We collaborate on thinking traps, tracking triggers, modifying behavior, successful coping skills and strengthening resiliency.
Client needs are my FIRST priority. I am a specialist in evidence-based treatments (EBT), which radically improves my client's success rates, increases effectiveness of treatment, and gets results quickly. The majority of my client's report improvements, within the first session: life-functioning (work- home-school-relationships) and report immediate reduction in symptoms. Reducing anxiety/panic, decreasing depression, developing stronger coping strategies to stress and balancing mood dysregulation are my specialty, as symptoms can result from adjustment challenges to sudden life changes: parenthood/divorce/ grief/college. We collaborate on thinking traps, tracking triggers, modifying behavior, successful coping skills and strengthening resiliency.
(248) 243-9214 View (248) 243-9214
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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.