Grief Therapists in Somers Point, NJ

Photo of Janelle Wynn, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janelle Wynn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Somers Point, NJ 08244
Grief.
I currently serve as an LCSW. My ideal client is 16 years old and above presenting for grief/loss, depression, anxiety, family hurt, trauma, and/or assistance through transitional periods. I am a certified grief counseling specialist and have also been trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP), and Illness Management and Recovery (IMR).
Grief.
I currently serve as an LCSW. My ideal client is 16 years old and above presenting for grief/loss, depression, anxiety, family hurt, trauma, and/or assistance through transitional periods. I am a certified grief counseling specialist and have also been trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP), and Illness Management and Recovery (IMR).
(640) 400-0771 View (640) 400-0771
Photo of Karly King - Karly King/Hello Wellness Counseling Services LLC, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karly King/Hello Wellness Counseling Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somers Point, NJ 08244
Hello! Reaching out for help can be difficult, but YOU did it. Thank you for considering me as your therapist. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) specializing in: couples/relationship challenges, grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, and self-esteem concerns. I am also a Licensed Clinical Alcohol Drug Counselor (LCADC). I utilize a person-centered approach pulling from treatment modalities such as Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT).
Hello! Reaching out for help can be difficult, but YOU did it. Thank you for considering me as your therapist. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) specializing in: couples/relationship challenges, grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, and self-esteem concerns. I am also a Licensed Clinical Alcohol Drug Counselor (LCADC). I utilize a person-centered approach pulling from treatment modalities such as Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT).
(609) 469-3958 View (609) 469-3958
Photo of Stephanie Willems, LCSW, CSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Willems
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somers Point, NJ 08244
I bring experience in working with a wide range of areas, including trauma, grief and loss, caregiver burden, end-of-life, mental health challenges, female experiences, and relationship dynamics.
Life has its ups and downs, and sometimes it feels like you’re searching for something—anything—that will pull you out of a difficult period. Whatever you’re going through that brought you to the moment of seeking therapy, I hope you find a place of healing, restoration, and comfort. My goal is to provide a safe space in supporting you in your journey of how to move forward.
I bring experience in working with a wide range of areas, including trauma, grief and loss, caregiver burden, end-of-life, mental health challenges, female experiences, and relationship dynamics.
Life has its ups and downs, and sometimes it feels like you’re searching for something—anything—that will pull you out of a difficult period. Whatever you’re going through that brought you to the moment of seeking therapy, I hope you find a place of healing, restoration, and comfort. My goal is to provide a safe space in supporting you in your journey of how to move forward.
(609) 542-2437 View (609) 542-2437
Photo of Laura Anne Gnall-Peter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Anne Gnall-Peter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somers Point, NJ 08244
There is value in knowing we are seen, heard, and understood. In addition to treating anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and trauma, I specialize in grief. Many times, we believe we are stuck, or that there is something abnormal about how long it is taking us to feel “better”. I understand that loss can be an isolating experience. Whether dealing with the death of a family member, friend, or beloved pet, or going through divorce, a cancer diagnosis, unexpected job loss, or an empty nest, how we process and adjust to an altered way of living are specific and unique to each person.
There is value in knowing we are seen, heard, and understood. In addition to treating anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and trauma, I specialize in grief. Many times, we believe we are stuck, or that there is something abnormal about how long it is taking us to feel “better”. I understand that loss can be an isolating experience. Whether dealing with the death of a family member, friend, or beloved pet, or going through divorce, a cancer diagnosis, unexpected job loss, or an empty nest, how we process and adjust to an altered way of living are specific and unique to each person.
(609) 710-7923 View (609) 710-7923
Photo of Allen J Wolf, MA, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allen J Wolf
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Somers Point, NJ 08244
Since 1989, I've had direct experience in virtually every continuum of behavioral health services and specialize in substance use, anxiety & depression, trauma and loss.
The foundation of my approach is client-centered, believing that through therapeutic rapport change is possible. This approach has provided me with the opportunity to provide adolescents, families, couples and adults my areas of expertise in which I utilize various disciplines of treatment. Such areas include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and skill building domains that include communication, the development of boundary setting, effective decision making and emotional regulation skills to help manage moods, sleep disturbance, stress and reactivity.
Since 1989, I've had direct experience in virtually every continuum of behavioral health services and specialize in substance use, anxiety & depression, trauma and loss.
The foundation of my approach is client-centered, believing that through therapeutic rapport change is possible. This approach has provided me with the opportunity to provide adolescents, families, couples and adults my areas of expertise in which I utilize various disciplines of treatment. Such areas include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and skill building domains that include communication, the development of boundary setting, effective decision making and emotional regulation skills to help manage moods, sleep disturbance, stress and reactivity.
(609) 604-7203 View (609) 604-7203
Photo of Rachael Mecholsky Pelikan, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, LCADC, CCTP, Counselor
Rachael Mecholsky Pelikan
Counselor, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, LCADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Somers Point, NJ 08244
Rachael utilizes her numerous certifications, including, EMDR Certified Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization Processing), C-DBT (Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and CGP (Certified Informed Grief Professional), to provide clients with the most well-rounded as possible.
Rachael, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, LCADC, CCTP, EMDR Certified, is a George Washington University alum, where she received her MA in Art Therapy and Mental Health Counseling. She is currently a licensed clinician, alcohol/drug counselor, board certified art therapist, and eating disorder specialist in training. She has several years of experience working with individuals of all ages who struggle with eating disorders, addiction and/or co-occurring disorders, through individual, couples, and/or family counseling, in order to effectively treat the whole individual and their family unit.
Rachael utilizes her numerous certifications, including, EMDR Certified Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization Processing), C-DBT (Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and CGP (Certified Informed Grief Professional), to provide clients with the most well-rounded as possible.
Rachael, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, LCADC, CCTP, EMDR Certified, is a George Washington University alum, where she received her MA in Art Therapy and Mental Health Counseling. She is currently a licensed clinician, alcohol/drug counselor, board certified art therapist, and eating disorder specialist in training. She has several years of experience working with individuals of all ages who struggle with eating disorders, addiction and/or co-occurring disorders, through individual, couples, and/or family counseling, in order to effectively treat the whole individual and their family unit.
(609) 853-5965 View (609) 853-5965
Photo of Melissa Mccue, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Mccue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Somers Point, NJ 08244
Melissa is a licensed Social Worker with several years of experience treating children, adolescents and adults with a multitude of backgrounds and dynamics. Melissa utilizes a person centered approach and has a focus but not limited to grief and loss, family conflict, parenting support as well as treating individuals with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma and mood disorders. Melissa is committed to prioritizing the therapeutic relationship so each one of her clients feels safe, supported, comfortable and validated in their process of healing and growth.
Melissa is a licensed Social Worker with several years of experience treating children, adolescents and adults with a multitude of backgrounds and dynamics. Melissa utilizes a person centered approach and has a focus but not limited to grief and loss, family conflict, parenting support as well as treating individuals with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma and mood disorders. Melissa is committed to prioritizing the therapeutic relationship so each one of her clients feels safe, supported, comfortable and validated in their process of healing and growth.
(640) 300-3920 View (640) 300-3920
Photo of Jillian Betz, BA, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jillian Betz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Somers Point, NJ 08244
I assist clients with disordered eating, obsessive compulsive disorder, grief or major change of life, anxiety, and depression.
I believe that the relationship between therapist and client is the most crucial component in ensuring that the client can make significant changes in their life. Everyone deserves to discuss their personal issues in an environment that provides safety, validation, compassion, and empathy. I utilize a psychodynamic approach when working with clients because I feel that our environments shape who we are. During different developmental periods in our life, there can be disruptions that cause future heartache, some which may need to be uncovered. I offer virtual sessions as well as in person sessions.
I assist clients with disordered eating, obsessive compulsive disorder, grief or major change of life, anxiety, and depression.
I believe that the relationship between therapist and client is the most crucial component in ensuring that the client can make significant changes in their life. Everyone deserves to discuss their personal issues in an environment that provides safety, validation, compassion, and empathy. I utilize a psychodynamic approach when working with clients because I feel that our environments shape who we are. During different developmental periods in our life, there can be disruptions that cause future heartache, some which may need to be uncovered. I offer virtual sessions as well as in person sessions.
(609) 913-2559 View (609) 913-2559
Photo of Dr. Sue Hoey, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Sue Hoey
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somers Point, NJ 08244
I am a hard-working, passionate, and empathic person who is dedicated to her clients. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families; however, I see individuals of all ages with a variety of presenting issues (e.g., stress, anxiety, depression, postpartum mood disorders, such as postpartum depression, grief / loss, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders). It is important for my clients to be aware that in addition to obtaining my LPC, I have finished extensive training in the field of psychology as I completed an APA accredited doctoral program in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) from Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
I am a hard-working, passionate, and empathic person who is dedicated to her clients. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families; however, I see individuals of all ages with a variety of presenting issues (e.g., stress, anxiety, depression, postpartum mood disorders, such as postpartum depression, grief / loss, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders). It is important for my clients to be aware that in addition to obtaining my LPC, I have finished extensive training in the field of psychology as I completed an APA accredited doctoral program in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) from Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
(609) 601-2479 View (609) 601-2479
Photo of Deana Ingemi, MA, LAC, Counselor
Deana Ingemi
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somers Point, NJ 08244
Much of my work is focused on anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, trauma, loss, and life transitions.
As a counselor I am committed to providing a nurturing and nonjudgmental environment in which you can feel validated, gain insight, and be supported in taking steps to make positive change. In working with children and adults, I have found that creating a safe space for clients to share their story is extremely important to successful therapy outcomes.
Much of my work is focused on anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, trauma, loss, and life transitions.
As a counselor I am committed to providing a nurturing and nonjudgmental environment in which you can feel validated, gain insight, and be supported in taking steps to make positive change. In working with children and adults, I have found that creating a safe space for clients to share their story is extremely important to successful therapy outcomes.
(609) 697-2170 View (609) 697-2170
Photo of Jo Ann Duvall Kurek - EMDR Counseling with JoAnn Duvall Kurek, MSS, LCSW, LISW, NBCCH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
EMDR Counseling with JoAnn Duvall Kurek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, LISW, NBCCH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somers Point, NJ 08244
Let’s work together in a comfy, relaxed environment to create a stronger, wiser you, leaving your issues in the past. I use a client centered approach to identify & strategize coping skills for positive change. My clients are adults who are motivated to move forward. We work on a customized treatment plan. I’m an EMDR Consultant, therapist & Staff Faciltator for the EMDR Institute. So, you could say I am highest credentialed, most experienced EMDR clinician & facilitator in NJ. EMDR is a clinically based treatment for trauma, depression, anxiety, grief & other issues. My hours are afternoons & evenings on Tuesday, Wed., & Friday.
Let’s work together in a comfy, relaxed environment to create a stronger, wiser you, leaving your issues in the past. I use a client centered approach to identify & strategize coping skills for positive change. My clients are adults who are motivated to move forward. We work on a customized treatment plan. I’m an EMDR Consultant, therapist & Staff Faciltator for the EMDR Institute. So, you could say I am highest credentialed, most experienced EMDR clinician & facilitator in NJ. EMDR is a clinically based treatment for trauma, depression, anxiety, grief & other issues. My hours are afternoons & evenings on Tuesday, Wed., & Friday.
(609) 622-4338 View (609) 622-4338
Photo of Richard Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Somers Point, NJ 08244
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
(609) 849-5562 View (609) 849-5562
Photo of Arlene K Licata, MA, LPC, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Arlene K Licata
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, MFT
Verified Verified
Somers Point, NJ 08244
Welcome to my practice! There are many reasons that you might seek professional help. At the root of them all is the desire to improve yourself, your life, or your relationship(s). For me, being a therapist means sharing my humanity with others, while maintaining an objective perspective that facilitates learning and change. My office is a nurturing space where you can take some time for yourself in the presence of a supportive counselor. My purpose is to provide comfort and safety as well as the guidance and focus that will help you reach the best resolutions to your challenges.
Welcome to my practice! There are many reasons that you might seek professional help. At the root of them all is the desire to improve yourself, your life, or your relationship(s). For me, being a therapist means sharing my humanity with others, while maintaining an objective perspective that facilitates learning and change. My office is a nurturing space where you can take some time for yourself in the presence of a supportive counselor. My purpose is to provide comfort and safety as well as the guidance and focus that will help you reach the best resolutions to your challenges.
(609) 359-0632 View (609) 359-0632
Photo of Rachael Clark, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachael Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somers Point, NJ 08244
Rachael is an LCSW located at the Jersey Shore. She uses a multi-modal approach in therapy sessions, which guides her to determine the most effective technique for each individual. In addition, she works with those who experience anger, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, suicidal ideation, PTSD and substance use disorders. Rachael has provided individual counseling to those in a variety of settings along with medication assisted treatment. Rachael also utilizes the Gottman Method in her work with couples.
Rachael is an LCSW located at the Jersey Shore. She uses a multi-modal approach in therapy sessions, which guides her to determine the most effective technique for each individual. In addition, she works with those who experience anger, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, suicidal ideation, PTSD and substance use disorders. Rachael has provided individual counseling to those in a variety of settings along with medication assisted treatment. Rachael also utilizes the Gottman Method in her work with couples.
(609) 905-4136 View (609) 905-4136
Photo of Lisa Listo, MA,  NCC, EdS, LAC, Counselor
Lisa Listo
Counselor, MA, NCC, EdS, LAC
Verified Verified
Somers Point, NJ 08244  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Lisa! I believe that therapy should be a safe space for you to be yourself. Therapy should also be inclusive and relevant to your own unique identity and background. I understand that everyone enters therapy at different levels of readiness and recognizing this fact is crucial in building a trusting & therapeutic relationship with you. I meet my clients where they are, gradually leading you through the therapeutic process. I employ a high level of support, respect, and empathy with all of my clients while providing a non-judgmental environment so that you always feel heard and validated.
Hi, I'm Lisa! I believe that therapy should be a safe space for you to be yourself. Therapy should also be inclusive and relevant to your own unique identity and background. I understand that everyone enters therapy at different levels of readiness and recognizing this fact is crucial in building a trusting & therapeutic relationship with you. I meet my clients where they are, gradually leading you through the therapeutic process. I employ a high level of support, respect, and empathy with all of my clients while providing a non-judgmental environment so that you always feel heard and validated.
(908) 347-2729 View (908) 347-2729
Photo of Dr. Gina M. Innocente, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Gina M. Innocente
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Somers Point, NJ 08244
We all have a story. We often cling persistently to the stories of our past, where our earliest dysfunctional patterns of relating to others created templates for future relationships. Such templates can be filled with distorted beliefs and expectations of ourselves and others. Your story may have some significant challenges to overcome. But your story doesn’t have to be a tale of woe. And you don't have to change it all by yourself. I'm here to help you rewrite your story so you experience more fulfilling relationships, live more fully in the present, and find the best parts of yourself.
We all have a story. We often cling persistently to the stories of our past, where our earliest dysfunctional patterns of relating to others created templates for future relationships. Such templates can be filled with distorted beliefs and expectations of ourselves and others. Your story may have some significant challenges to overcome. But your story doesn’t have to be a tale of woe. And you don't have to change it all by yourself. I'm here to help you rewrite your story so you experience more fulfilling relationships, live more fully in the present, and find the best parts of yourself.
(609) 834-4602 View (609) 834-4602
Photo of Lisa Cordasco - Rewired Path, LCSW, LSW, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rewired Path
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Somers Point, NJ 08244
We are a group practicing ready to support you and your loved ones as a guide on your path to wellness, wholeness and worthiness. We use a holistic, person-centered and individualized approach to help you to achieve your goals to be the most fulfilled version of you. Our practice believes in tailoring our treatment approach to your individual needs and our clinicians specialize in a variety of approaches and modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Behavioral Therapies, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Approach, Play Therapy, Art Therapy and Brainspotting
We are a group practicing ready to support you and your loved ones as a guide on your path to wellness, wholeness and worthiness. We use a holistic, person-centered and individualized approach to help you to achieve your goals to be the most fulfilled version of you. Our practice believes in tailoring our treatment approach to your individual needs and our clinicians specialize in a variety of approaches and modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Behavioral Therapies, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Approach, Play Therapy, Art Therapy and Brainspotting
(609) 566-8516 View (609) 566-8516
Photo of Angie Corry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angie Corry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Somers Point, NJ 08244
EMDR Therapy Now Available! My mission is to provide a space for adults and children to be seen, feel heard, and develop the tools to live a meaningful life. I provide evidence-based therapeutic approaches that are holistic and culturally sensitive. Depending on your needs, therapy sessions incorporate mindfulness and mind-body awareness . I am trained in approaches including, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Play Therapy Techniques. I am also certified in postpartum support for perinatal mood disorders.
EMDR Therapy Now Available! My mission is to provide a space for adults and children to be seen, feel heard, and develop the tools to live a meaningful life. I provide evidence-based therapeutic approaches that are holistic and culturally sensitive. Depending on your needs, therapy sessions incorporate mindfulness and mind-body awareness . I am trained in approaches including, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Play Therapy Techniques. I am also certified in postpartum support for perinatal mood disorders.
(609) 554-5537 View (609) 554-5537
Photo of John Patrick Davis, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Patrick Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somers Point, NJ 08244
I work with adolescents and adults as individuals, couples, and families, with issues such as addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, panic attacks, impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, interpersonal difficulties, intimacy struggles, and existential crises. People inherently want to feel at peace, safe, secure, understood, and cared about .
I work with adolescents and adults as individuals, couples, and families, with issues such as addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, panic attacks, impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, interpersonal difficulties, intimacy struggles, and existential crises. People inherently want to feel at peace, safe, secure, understood, and cared about .
(609) 785-3668 View (609) 785-3668
Photo of Michael A Michnya, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael A Michnya
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Somers Point, NJ 08244
I specialize in building relationships: helping parents get more cooperation and compliance from their children with less energy; helping couples beat the odds to stay happily married; and helping all types of artists connect to their creativity. My clients appreciate creativity and honest communication, value our relationship and time together and are hopeful about the future. They understand that true and lasting change comes from within and is the result of patience and concentrated effort - both in and between sessions. The process encourages clients to tell me what is and isn't working in our sessions.
I specialize in building relationships: helping parents get more cooperation and compliance from their children with less energy; helping couples beat the odds to stay happily married; and helping all types of artists connect to their creativity. My clients appreciate creativity and honest communication, value our relationship and time together and are hopeful about the future. They understand that true and lasting change comes from within and is the result of patience and concentrated effort - both in and between sessions. The process encourages clients to tell me what is and isn't working in our sessions.
(609) 601-4173 View (609) 601-4173
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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.