Photo of Renee J Wolf - R J Wolf Counseling Services, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
R J Wolf Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28117
Life is full of twists and turns, often unexpected and challenging to even the most seasoned navigator. Individual, couple, and family therapy can provide relief to those seeking support by regrouping, learning coping skills and gaining helpful insight to promote empowered change. It is my honor to help individuals, couples, and families who are seeking help to either heal, learn new ways to manage their lives or adjust to new challenges. I have extensive experience in the fields of anxiety/depression/PTSD, adjustment, illness, grief, sudden loss, marriage, post-partum depression, blended family, parenting, and addiction. My practice encompasses adolescents to the young at heart.
Life is full of twists and turns, often unexpected and challenging to even the most seasoned navigator. Individual, couple, and family therapy can provide relief to those seeking support by regrouping, learning coping skills and gaining helpful insight to promote empowered change. It is my honor to help individuals, couples, and families who are seeking help to either heal, learn new ways to manage their lives or adjust to new challenges. I have extensive experience in the fields of anxiety/depression/PTSD, adjustment, illness, grief, sudden loss, marriage, post-partum depression, blended family, parenting, and addiction. My practice encompasses adolescents to the young at heart.
(704) 610-2455 View (704) 610-2455
Photo of Christy Gunther - Stellar Counseling Services, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Stellar Counseling Services
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
I also specialize in pet bereavement and facilitated a Pet Loss Support Group for 24 years.
I have a general practice whereby I offer individual and couple counseling. My approach is client-centered and I utilize several different therapeutic modalities, according to what is most effective with each individual client.
I also specialize in pet bereavement and facilitated a Pet Loss Support Group for 24 years.
I have a general practice whereby I offer individual and couple counseling. My approach is client-centered and I utilize several different therapeutic modalities, according to what is most effective with each individual client.
(828) 354-0395 View (828) 354-0395
Photo of Lori Marhefke, LCMHC , CRC
Lori Marhefke
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC , CRC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
If you are searching for assistance, I hope you find that in a professional in these profiles. I may be helpful if you are struggling with sleep, anxiety, and losses. If your thoughts are louder than what is happening right in front of you, I may be a good fit for you. It’s brave of you to be here. It takes courage to seek help. I serve Wisconsin, North Carolina, and Virginia. I’ve worked with wonderful clients, many of whom have suffered anxiety, panic, sleep disturbances, trauma, and grief. I’d be honored to provide a safe place for you to talk.
If you are searching for assistance, I hope you find that in a professional in these profiles. I may be helpful if you are struggling with sleep, anxiety, and losses. If your thoughts are louder than what is happening right in front of you, I may be a good fit for you. It’s brave of you to be here. It takes courage to seek help. I serve Wisconsin, North Carolina, and Virginia. I’ve worked with wonderful clients, many of whom have suffered anxiety, panic, sleep disturbances, trauma, and grief. I’d be honored to provide a safe place for you to talk.
(984) 203-9852 View (984) 203-9852
Photo of Joseph B Alexander - Footprints Counseling, MA, MDiv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Footprints Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Grief is another area I enjoy helping clients move from "victim" to "survivor.
Clients come to me in trying times for help dealing with issues like depression, anxiety, grief issues, and anger issues. I don't see myself as the "expert" who is going to provide all the "answers" but I do promise to walk with my clients as they address the issues we identify together that they want to address in therapy. I am comfortable working with clients individuals, couples and families, and kids (age 9 to adults). I have been theologically trained and can explore spiritual issues and crises as a pastoral counselor, also.
Grief is another area I enjoy helping clients move from "victim" to "survivor.
Clients come to me in trying times for help dealing with issues like depression, anxiety, grief issues, and anger issues. I don't see myself as the "expert" who is going to provide all the "answers" but I do promise to walk with my clients as they address the issues we identify together that they want to address in therapy. I am comfortable working with clients individuals, couples and families, and kids (age 9 to adults). I have been theologically trained and can explore spiritual issues and crises as a pastoral counselor, also.
(336) 939-0412 View (336) 939-0412
Photo of George N Gates, DMin, MA, LPA, LPC, NCC
George N Gates
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, DMin, MA, LPA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
Specialities include major life transitions such as grief and loss, divorce and blended families, vocational challenges, overwhelming tension/stress or low outlook.
I have had good success with working with the resolution of depression and anxiety with clients for over 35 years. I work with people who are trying to improve their marriage or reluctantly must decide another direction. Sometimes men are ambivalent about trusting therapy. While the national norm is that therapist caseloads are 70/30 % women more than men, my norm is an even split between men and women. Men do find they can make headway on stubborn relational or emotional issues. I also see adolescent boys as they make their transition into young manhood.
Specialities include major life transitions such as grief and loss, divorce and blended families, vocational challenges, overwhelming tension/stress or low outlook.
I have had good success with working with the resolution of depression and anxiety with clients for over 35 years. I work with people who are trying to improve their marriage or reluctantly must decide another direction. Sometimes men are ambivalent about trusting therapy. While the national norm is that therapist caseloads are 70/30 % women more than men, my norm is an even split between men and women. Men do find they can make headway on stubborn relational or emotional issues. I also see adolescent boys as they make their transition into young manhood.
(910) 401-3384 View (910) 401-3384
Photo of Darnita D Samuels Lmft Supervisory Candidate, MSA, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Darnita D Samuels Lmft Supervisory Candidate
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
I am experienced in the following: pre-marital counseling, marriage/couples/individual therapies, grief/ loss issues, inner child wounds, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, family conflict, sexual abuse, racial justice issues, substance abuse recovery, stress management, work/life balance and change of life issues.
From time to time we all face challenges and may need someone to help us along the way. I provide a safe, supportive and collaborative environment to empower you in building the skills to manage your issues/concerns. It all starts with a conversation. Let's talk!!
I am experienced in the following: pre-marital counseling, marriage/couples/individual therapies, grief/ loss issues, inner child wounds, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, family conflict, sexual abuse, racial justice issues, substance abuse recovery, stress management, work/life balance and change of life issues.
From time to time we all face challenges and may need someone to help us along the way. I provide a safe, supportive and collaborative environment to empower you in building the skills to manage your issues/concerns. It all starts with a conversation. Let's talk!!
(919) 807-1692 View (919) 807-1692
Photo of Wanda Anthony Burger, LCMHCS, NCC, CCMC, CCS, PhD
Wanda Anthony Burger
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, NCC, CCMC, CCS, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yadkinville, NC 27055
Hello! At some point in life we find a need to talk to someone. Grief, loss, trauma, adjustment, relational issues are a few areas we can face. My specialties include: grief, trauma: civilian/military PTSD/PTSS, stress, substance abuse; Wellness Groups, Growing through Grief , prevention & early intervention. Boon and Katie, registered,therapy dogs, may join sessions. Boon began working at 9 weeks. In 2016 I added Military Trauma (CCMC) Certified Military Counselor Certificate. It was an honor to complete this certificate and begin working with our wonderful veterans and families. Come visit us at The Therapy House.
Hello! At some point in life we find a need to talk to someone. Grief, loss, trauma, adjustment, relational issues are a few areas we can face. My specialties include: grief, trauma: civilian/military PTSD/PTSS, stress, substance abuse; Wellness Groups, Growing through Grief , prevention & early intervention. Boon and Katie, registered,therapy dogs, may join sessions. Boon began working at 9 weeks. In 2016 I added Military Trauma (CCMC) Certified Military Counselor Certificate. It was an honor to complete this certificate and begin working with our wonderful veterans and families. Come visit us at The Therapy House.
(336) 344-7187 View (336) 344-7187
Photo of Kimberly Miller, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
I believe counseling is a collaborative process in which we work together to find solutions so you can return to a full and authentic life. By providing an open/accepting environment, you will have a safe space to transform challenges into opportunities for growth and learning. I have over 20 years of experience supporting and helping people struggling with a variety of concerns including such things like anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/ loss, coping skills, life transitions, self-esteem, chronic stress, and abuse.
I believe counseling is a collaborative process in which we work together to find solutions so you can return to a full and authentic life. By providing an open/accepting environment, you will have a safe space to transform challenges into opportunities for growth and learning. I have over 20 years of experience supporting and helping people struggling with a variety of concerns including such things like anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/ loss, coping skills, life transitions, self-esteem, chronic stress, and abuse.
(336) 697-6100 View (336) 697-6100
Photo of Susan A Lansche, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
Susan A Lansche
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562
As a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, I will help you identify "losses" that can be preventing you from reaching your goals or having a healthy relationship.
Years of working with women, families and couples continues to teach me that what is valued most is relationship and a sense of being heard. For most,the therapeutic relationship and discovery of their "voice" is the beginning of transformation. What a gift for me to be part of that process. Working from the framework of Person Centered Therapy, I marvel over my client's determination and abilities to overcome their depression, anxiety, co-dependency, use of substances, and negative self images (that developed as a result of abusive histories and/or unresolved grief). Holistically heart, mind and spirit!
As a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, I will help you identify "losses" that can be preventing you from reaching your goals or having a healthy relationship.
Years of working with women, families and couples continues to teach me that what is valued most is relationship and a sense of being heard. For most,the therapeutic relationship and discovery of their "voice" is the beginning of transformation. What a gift for me to be part of that process. Working from the framework of Person Centered Therapy, I marvel over my client's determination and abilities to overcome their depression, anxiety, co-dependency, use of substances, and negative self images (that developed as a result of abusive histories and/or unresolved grief). Holistically heart, mind and spirit!
(252) 410-1944 View (252) 410-1944
Photo of N. Diane Stamey, MA, LMFT, LFBPC, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
N. Diane Stamey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LFBPC, MDiv
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook, Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook, Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
(828) 348-6863 View (828) 348-6863
Photo of Holly Young, LMHC
Holly Young
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Statesville, NC 28677
Hello! My name is Holly Young, a licensed clinical mental health counselor with over six years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, grief & loss, and assertiveness training for teens and adults. I use a mix of modalities such as Dialectical (DBT), Eclectic, Trauma Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and Supportive therapy. I believe that kindness and authenticity are a great quality to have.
Hello! My name is Holly Young, a licensed clinical mental health counselor with over six years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, grief & loss, and assertiveness training for teens and adults. I use a mix of modalities such as Dialectical (DBT), Eclectic, Trauma Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and Supportive therapy. I believe that kindness and authenticity are a great quality to have.
(828) 547-9398 View (828) 547-9398
Photo of Laura Seitz - Advene Health Group, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Advene Health Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28270
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief and loss, living with chronic medical conditions, self-esteem issues, and relationship and career issues, among others.
My idea as a psychotherapist is to provide safe, comfortable & judgment-free environment for clients to work through issues. My role as a psychotherapist is to respect the goals that my clients come in with, and support the process of working toward these goals. I believe Psychotherapy can enhance one's self-awareness and the ability to recognize in one's own self-defeating and self-sabotaging patterns, and to change these patterns.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief and loss, living with chronic medical conditions, self-esteem issues, and relationship and career issues, among others.
My idea as a psychotherapist is to provide safe, comfortable & judgment-free environment for clients to work through issues. My role as a psychotherapist is to respect the goals that my clients come in with, and support the process of working toward these goals. I believe Psychotherapy can enhance one's self-awareness and the ability to recognize in one's own self-defeating and self-sabotaging patterns, and to change these patterns.
(980) 247-4144 View (980) 247-4144
Photo of Kelly L Harrison, MACC, LCMHC-S, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly L Harrison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACC, LCMHC-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I also enjoy working with clients facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, trauma, and spiritual matters.
Are you, or someone you love, at a crossroads in life? Deciding to contact a therapist is the first step to bringing about the change you desire. I recognize that it takes courage to begin this search, and it is usually the result of emotional pain. I want you to know that there is hope. Your present circumstances do not have to dictate your future. This does not need to become your new normal. Instead, you have the power to overcome your current circumstances. I believe that through a safe and trusting counseling relationship, true healing can begin.
I also enjoy working with clients facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, trauma, and spiritual matters.
Are you, or someone you love, at a crossroads in life? Deciding to contact a therapist is the first step to bringing about the change you desire. I recognize that it takes courage to begin this search, and it is usually the result of emotional pain. I want you to know that there is hope. Your present circumstances do not have to dictate your future. This does not need to become your new normal. Instead, you have the power to overcome your current circumstances. I believe that through a safe and trusting counseling relationship, true healing can begin.
(919) 713-0260 View (919) 713-0260
Photo of Brian Purnell, MEd, LCMHCS, ACS, EAS-C, BC-TMH, Counselor
Brian Purnell
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS, ACS, EAS-C, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Some of the specialities are blended families, broken relationships in families and marriages, gang prevention for teens, grief and loss of self as well as someone close.
Journey Through Life, PLLC sees all kinds of families that maybe hurting from divorce, grief, blended families and broken relationships. In addition, the practice specializes in significant and marital relationships. The ideal is for a family that may not have the skills to see past the forest, but will be open to the infinite possibilities. Individual, Group Clinical Supervision, and Parenting Workshops are offered at the practice as well.
Some of the specialities are blended families, broken relationships in families and marriages, gang prevention for teens, grief and loss of self as well as someone close.
Journey Through Life, PLLC sees all kinds of families that maybe hurting from divorce, grief, blended families and broken relationships. In addition, the practice specializes in significant and marital relationships. The ideal is for a family that may not have the skills to see past the forest, but will be open to the infinite possibilities. Individual, Group Clinical Supervision, and Parenting Workshops are offered at the practice as well.
(919) 267-2483 View (919) 267-2483
Photo of Laura Lohr Moncaleano, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Lohr Moncaleano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
High Point, NC 27265
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with clients throughout various major life events, including marriage/divorce, pregnancy/postpartum, parenting, retirement, and grief/ loss.
I believe that the therapy process is rooted in rapport, transparency, and hard work between the therapist and client. My approach is direct, honest, and straightforward. I strive to create a safe, comfortable, and judgment free space for clients to unload and discuss their most intimate life concerns. I enjoy working with other professionals (teachers, healthcare workers) experiencing burnout; who are wanting to learn skills in order to create work/life balance, manage stress levels, and cultivate happy/healthy relationships. This might involve learning to say "no" with boundary implementation and assertive communication.
I am passionate about working with clients throughout various major life events, including marriage/divorce, pregnancy/postpartum, parenting, retirement, and grief/ loss.
I believe that the therapy process is rooted in rapport, transparency, and hard work between the therapist and client. My approach is direct, honest, and straightforward. I strive to create a safe, comfortable, and judgment free space for clients to unload and discuss their most intimate life concerns. I enjoy working with other professionals (teachers, healthcare workers) experiencing burnout; who are wanting to learn skills in order to create work/life balance, manage stress levels, and cultivate happy/healthy relationships. This might involve learning to say "no" with boundary implementation and assertive communication.
(336) 864-9625 View (336) 864-9625
Photo of Garlande Powell, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, ICAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Garlande Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, ICAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
My purpose is to assist you in restoring your soul to health and peace, whatever the conflict you are struggling with today. I have assisted people in overcoming their abuse, anxiety, anger, grief, addictions, stress, and depression. Pulling from my professional training and combining this with Biblical principles to enhance my effectiveness as God brings restoration and healing. My intent is to help you learn new strategies and develop better resources to overcome the challenges you are facing. I endeavor to walk this journey beside you to improve your life and give you the tools to maintain your new healthy lifestyle.
My purpose is to assist you in restoring your soul to health and peace, whatever the conflict you are struggling with today. I have assisted people in overcoming their abuse, anxiety, anger, grief, addictions, stress, and depression. Pulling from my professional training and combining this with Biblical principles to enhance my effectiveness as God brings restoration and healing. My intent is to help you learn new strategies and develop better resources to overcome the challenges you are facing. I endeavor to walk this journey beside you to improve your life and give you the tools to maintain your new healthy lifestyle.
(910) 292-4215 View (910) 292-4215
Photo of Nicole Leigh Bettis, EdS, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Leigh Bettis
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Emerald Isle, NC 28594
I am a marriage & family therapist and a registered play therapist. I have a wide range of experience in working with children, adolescents, couples, individuals, and families. My areas of specialization working with issues related to divorce, child custody, parenting, co-parenting, infidelity, family loss/ grief, military family issues, school or work related problems, adoption, infertility, emotion regulation, trust and abandonment issues. My goal is to provide a private, safe place for you to better understand your situation and to help you make the changes necessary to live the life you desire.
I am a marriage & family therapist and a registered play therapist. I have a wide range of experience in working with children, adolescents, couples, individuals, and families. My areas of specialization working with issues related to divorce, child custody, parenting, co-parenting, infidelity, family loss/ grief, military family issues, school or work related problems, adoption, infertility, emotion regulation, trust and abandonment issues. My goal is to provide a private, safe place for you to better understand your situation and to help you make the changes necessary to live the life you desire.
(252) 377-4047 View (252) 377-4047
Photo of Jennifer Noble Lamberth - CareNet/Fayetteville Family Life Center, MA, LMFT-S, LCMHCS, Marriage & Family Therapist
CareNet/Fayetteville Family Life Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28305  (Online Only)
My priority, as a therapist is to assist you through the challenges one faces in life. I am a Person-Centered therapist acknowledging the individuality of each client. I am trained in the integration of psychology and faith. Therapeutic interventions are eclectic incorporating a holistic approach of mind, body and spirit. I have experience in treating Anxiety, Depression, Mood/Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorder, Life Transition Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Grief, Anger Management, and Women Issues. I, also have experience working with Couple/Marital Counseling and Family-related concerns. As a military spouse, I enjoy assisting military families.
My priority, as a therapist is to assist you through the challenges one faces in life. I am a Person-Centered therapist acknowledging the individuality of each client. I am trained in the integration of psychology and faith. Therapeutic interventions are eclectic incorporating a holistic approach of mind, body and spirit. I have experience in treating Anxiety, Depression, Mood/Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorder, Life Transition Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Grief, Anger Management, and Women Issues. I, also have experience working with Couple/Marital Counseling and Family-related concerns. As a military spouse, I enjoy assisting military families.
(910) 377-0101 View (910) 377-0101
Photo of Paula Briedis, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paula Briedis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, NC 28540
I am dedicated to providing thoughtful, compassionate, and individualized therapy to help individuals, couples, and families achieve change and personal growth. My goal is to help equip, encourage, and engage clients as they journey through difficulties they face in their lives. My expertise covers a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, grief, relational problems, or those simply wanting to live life more fully. I also works with survivors of sexual abuse and trauma. Offering individual, couples or group therapy, I am committed to helping others navigate the rough roads of life.
I am dedicated to providing thoughtful, compassionate, and individualized therapy to help individuals, couples, and families achieve change and personal growth. My goal is to help equip, encourage, and engage clients as they journey through difficulties they face in their lives. My expertise covers a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, grief, relational problems, or those simply wanting to live life more fully. I also works with survivors of sexual abuse and trauma. Offering individual, couples or group therapy, I am committed to helping others navigate the rough roads of life.
(833) 878-3793 View (833) 878-3793
Photo of Erica Ann Striblin, MA, LCMHC , NBCC, LCMHCS, Counselor
Erica Ann Striblin
Counselor, MA, LCMHC , NBCC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358
I am Erica Striblin, MA, LCMHCS currently located in Lumberton NC. I am a trauma focused and EMDR trained clinician. I currently assist ,adults, children and their families with history of sexual,physical and child neglect. I serve ages 3 through 100 in areas of depression, anxiety, grief, etc. in a professional and therapeutic setting.
I am Erica Striblin, MA, LCMHCS currently located in Lumberton NC. I am a trauma focused and EMDR trained clinician. I currently assist ,adults, children and their families with history of sexual,physical and child neglect. I serve ages 3 through 100 in areas of depression, anxiety, grief, etc. in a professional and therapeutic setting.
(910) 816-1878 View (910) 816-1878

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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.