Photo of Ella (Elzbieta) Wojnarowska, MS, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Ella (Elzbieta) Wojnarowska
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
I am skilled at addressing anxiety disorders, mood disorders, grief, self-esteem, and life transitions.
If you have been anxious, depressed, confused, or overwhelmed, I am here to help. I am committed to provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore, heal, and thrive. I will assist you with understanding how your experiences and values inform your decision making, communication with others, and choices of coping skills. I will collaborate with you on finding healthier approaches and more effective coping strategies. I am determined to use my education and experience to help you become more resilient.
I am skilled at addressing anxiety disorders, mood disorders, grief, self-esteem, and life transitions.
If you have been anxious, depressed, confused, or overwhelmed, I am here to help. I am committed to provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore, heal, and thrive. I will assist you with understanding how your experiences and values inform your decision making, communication with others, and choices of coping skills. I will collaborate with you on finding healthier approaches and more effective coping strategies. I am determined to use my education and experience to help you become more resilient.
(224) 212-1026 View (224) 212-1026
Photo of Jenn Balleto, LCPC
Jenn Balleto
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. Over the last 10 years, I have had the opportunity to provide compassionate service to individuals, groups, and families who are experiencing challenges related to, depression, anxiety/panic, mood disorders, mental health crisis, substance use, psychosis, life transitions, and additional life stressors; with an expertise in the areas of grief/loss, trauma, and traumatic loss.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. Over the last 10 years, I have had the opportunity to provide compassionate service to individuals, groups, and families who are experiencing challenges related to, depression, anxiety/panic, mood disorders, mental health crisis, substance use, psychosis, life transitions, and additional life stressors; with an expertise in the areas of grief/loss, trauma, and traumatic loss.
(815) 338-3590 View (815) 338-3590
Photo of Jim Grimm, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jim Grimm
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I have expertise dealing with anxiety issues, addiction and recovery, depression, complicated grief and loss with adults and children, behavioral and relationship issues, parenting, family and relationship issues and sports counseling that includes motivation, performance and code of conduct issues.
My broad base of experience recognizes the whole person in a solution-focused approach that is realistic and achievable. I utilize insight oriented, cognitive-behavioral and family oriented approaches in my counseling milieu. I am devoted to helping adults, children and adolescents (6-18 years), couples and families.
I have expertise dealing with anxiety issues, addiction and recovery, depression, complicated grief and loss with adults and children, behavioral and relationship issues, parenting, family and relationship issues and sports counseling that includes motivation, performance and code of conduct issues.
My broad base of experience recognizes the whole person in a solution-focused approach that is realistic and achievable. I utilize insight oriented, cognitive-behavioral and family oriented approaches in my counseling milieu. I am devoted to helping adults, children and adolescents (6-18 years), couples and families.
(847) 607-1125 x141 View (847) 607-1125 x141
Photo of Kristina Pomagier, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina Pomagier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Greetings, My name is Kristina Pomagier. My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced a variety of mental health issues including trauma, attachment disruptions, grief and loss, depression, and/or anxiety. Severe mental health issues, psychosis (hallucinations and delusional thinking), and personality disorders. Suicidal ideation and/or self-injurious thoughts or behaviors. Children, adolescents, and adults experiencing mood instability, emotional disturbance, or anger management. Specialized training in substance abuse across the lifespan. Sports performance. I look forward to helping you!
Greetings, My name is Kristina Pomagier. My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced a variety of mental health issues including trauma, attachment disruptions, grief and loss, depression, and/or anxiety. Severe mental health issues, psychosis (hallucinations and delusional thinking), and personality disorders. Suicidal ideation and/or self-injurious thoughts or behaviors. Children, adolescents, and adults experiencing mood instability, emotional disturbance, or anger management. Specialized training in substance abuse across the lifespan. Sports performance. I look forward to helping you!
(779) 244-4508 View (779) 244-4508
Photo of Tracy Soos, LCPC, CADC, ERYT, Counselor
Tracy Soos
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, ERYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I am also committed to helping individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder, trauma & acute stress disorders and have specific training working with individuals diagnosed with severe health conditions including heart disease, obesity, stroke, perinatal bereavement, compulsive over-eating and pre/post-op weight loss surgery patients.
I have been helping clients for the past 24 years working through their mental health and substance use challenges. I am committed to helping you reducing your stress and better manage/change your overall mood through a variety of counseling & stress management techniques. I can help you increase your self-esteem, self worth and work through any body image and acceptance issues that may be challenging your patience. I truly understand anxiety disorders, codependency, health issues, relationship issues, women specific issues, depression and post-partum depressive disorders. I would love to help you make lasting lifestyle changes.
I am also committed to helping individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder, trauma & acute stress disorders and have specific training working with individuals diagnosed with severe health conditions including heart disease, obesity, stroke, perinatal bereavement, compulsive over-eating and pre/post-op weight loss surgery patients.
I have been helping clients for the past 24 years working through their mental health and substance use challenges. I am committed to helping you reducing your stress and better manage/change your overall mood through a variety of counseling & stress management techniques. I can help you increase your self-esteem, self worth and work through any body image and acceptance issues that may be challenging your patience. I truly understand anxiety disorders, codependency, health issues, relationship issues, women specific issues, depression and post-partum depressive disorders. I would love to help you make lasting lifestyle changes.
(815) 584-0108 View (815) 584-0108
Photo of Sara Lemke - Revival Therapy, MA, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Revival Therapy
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Our areas of expertise are: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, disordered eating, substance use disorders, personality disorders, grief, divorce, PTSD/trauma, co-dependency, narcissistic abuse, chronic illness, and life adjustments/transitions.
At Revival Therapy believe in compassionate care and authentic connections dedicated towards your wellness. Collectively our professional counselors have over 50 years of experience in the mental heath field working with individuals, couples and families. We believe the key towards your healing lies deeply within you. Our role is to be on the journey with you, helping guide you, and tap into those unrealized or forgotten strengths. We are with you every step of the way on your journey to a personal revival. We are accepting new clients. Let us help you begin your REVIVAL today. Your mental health matters!
Our areas of expertise are: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, disordered eating, substance use disorders, personality disorders, grief, divorce, PTSD/trauma, co-dependency, narcissistic abuse, chronic illness, and life adjustments/transitions.
At Revival Therapy believe in compassionate care and authentic connections dedicated towards your wellness. Collectively our professional counselors have over 50 years of experience in the mental heath field working with individuals, couples and families. We believe the key towards your healing lies deeply within you. Our role is to be on the journey with you, helping guide you, and tap into those unrealized or forgotten strengths. We are with you every step of the way on your journey to a personal revival. We are accepting new clients. Let us help you begin your REVIVAL today. Your mental health matters!
(779) 243-5246 View (779) 243-5246
Photo of Amy Fujino, LCPC, Counselor
Amy Fujino
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
In Touch Counseling Center, LLC is officially open for business! I am providing individual, family and couples therapy in person and Telehealth for individuals experiencing depression, generalized anxiety, ADHD, anger, adjustment difficulty, low self-esteem, grief & loss, eating disorders, negative body image, borderline personality disorder and stress.
In Touch Counseling Center, LLC is officially open for business! I am providing individual, family and couples therapy in person and Telehealth for individuals experiencing depression, generalized anxiety, ADHD, anger, adjustment difficulty, low self-esteem, grief & loss, eating disorders, negative body image, borderline personality disorder and stress.
(815) 524-8249 View (815) 524-8249
Photo of Julianna Evischi, MSW, LSW
Julianna Evischi
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
In addition, I treat anxiety, depression, BiPolar Disorder, disordered eating, PTSD/trauma, substance use disorders, co-dependency, life adjustments/life transitions, chronic stress related issues and grief.
Hi, I'm Julianna, and I work with both teens and adults! I believe that everyone has a unique story and I acknowledge that beginning therapy can feel intimidating and even scary. I approach therapy with a collaborative mindset, free of judgement, and built on mutual respect and trust. I value a therapeutic environment where one is free to be their authentic self. I value a focus on solutions, offering guidance and unconditional support, while simultaneously acknowledging that you are the expert of your own life.
In addition, I treat anxiety, depression, BiPolar Disorder, disordered eating, PTSD/trauma, substance use disorders, co-dependency, life adjustments/life transitions, chronic stress related issues and grief.
Hi, I'm Julianna, and I work with both teens and adults! I believe that everyone has a unique story and I acknowledge that beginning therapy can feel intimidating and even scary. I approach therapy with a collaborative mindset, free of judgement, and built on mutual respect and trust. I value a therapeutic environment where one is free to be their authentic self. I value a focus on solutions, offering guidance and unconditional support, while simultaneously acknowledging that you are the expert of your own life.
(815) 396-6425 View (815) 396-6425
Photo of Judy A Carlson, LCSW, CRADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judy A Carlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I have over 30 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups addressing the following: anxiety, depression, addiction and recovery, substance use disorders, co-dependency, adolescent issues, relationship/family issues, grief and loss, adjustment issues, stress management and mood disorders.
I believe in working collaboratively with a client to help them work through problems and barriers so that they can reach their unique potential. I believe in a positive, solution focused approach, which encourages hope and gratitude related to all of life's lessons.
I have over 30 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups addressing the following: anxiety, depression, addiction and recovery, substance use disorders, co-dependency, adolescent issues, relationship/family issues, grief and loss, adjustment issues, stress management and mood disorders.
I believe in working collaboratively with a client to help them work through problems and barriers so that they can reach their unique potential. I believe in a positive, solution focused approach, which encourages hope and gratitude related to all of life's lessons.
(847) 813-7320 x132 View (847) 813-7320 x132
Photo of Mercedes Conus, MS, LPC, EMDR, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mercedes Conus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I am a fully bilingual Spanish/English EMDR therapist who treats trauma, post-partum depression, low self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, prolonged grief, school refusal, self-harm, ADHD, bipolar, DID, addiction, disruptive behavior, relationship conflict, and physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
We all have a story and this story guides us. I believe that life is a journey with good and bad moments. Coping with these challenges could be difficult; why do you have to go through it alone? I believe therapy is a place where you truly find yourself and grow as person. I believe it takes great courage, self insight, and strength to reach out for help. Often when we are adjusting to new life circumstances, we don't realize the importance of acceptance. Therapy is a great place to process, explore and adapt to these changes. In therapy, we will work together to identify your needs and find the best of you.
I am a fully bilingual Spanish/English EMDR therapist who treats trauma, post-partum depression, low self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, prolonged grief, school refusal, self-harm, ADHD, bipolar, DID, addiction, disruptive behavior, relationship conflict, and physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
We all have a story and this story guides us. I believe that life is a journey with good and bad moments. Coping with these challenges could be difficult; why do you have to go through it alone? I believe therapy is a place where you truly find yourself and grow as person. I believe it takes great courage, self insight, and strength to reach out for help. Often when we are adjusting to new life circumstances, we don't realize the importance of acceptance. Therapy is a great place to process, explore and adapt to these changes. In therapy, we will work together to identify your needs and find the best of you.
(847) 469-9869 View (847) 469-9869
Photo of Gale Lee Harris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gale Lee Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
I have worked with angry people, individuals with transgender and sexual orientation issues, and older adults dealing with loss.
My job, as I see it, is not to fix you, but to help you fix yourself. To do that, I help you find the tools you already have and remind you that - on some deep level - you already know how to use them. My approach is cognitive, because I believe the way we think about our lives helps create them.
I have worked with angry people, individuals with transgender and sexual orientation issues, and older adults dealing with loss.
My job, as I see it, is not to fix you, but to help you fix yourself. To do that, I help you find the tools you already have and remind you that - on some deep level - you already know how to use them. My approach is cognitive, because I believe the way we think about our lives helps create them.
(815) 572-4242 View (815) 572-4242
Photo of Kim Wilson, AMFT, CPT
Kim Wilson
AMFT, CPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
As a Marrriage and Famiy Therapist, Committed to assisting each individual as they build on their existing strengths to live their best life possible. The approach is to meet the clients where they are and help create a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can process and heal. Working with each client(s) to determine the best therapeutic approach. Experienced working with play therapy, anxiety, depression, ADHD, LGBTQ+ Community Members, abuse, trauma, grief, life transitions, family relational problems, BPD, and other life experiences and diagnosis. -we do not accept Medicaid or Medicare at this time-
As a Marrriage and Famiy Therapist, Committed to assisting each individual as they build on their existing strengths to live their best life possible. The approach is to meet the clients where they are and help create a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can process and heal. Working with each client(s) to determine the best therapeutic approach. Experienced working with play therapy, anxiety, depression, ADHD, LGBTQ+ Community Members, abuse, trauma, grief, life transitions, family relational problems, BPD, and other life experiences and diagnosis. -we do not accept Medicaid or Medicare at this time-
(847) 916-8473 View (847) 916-8473
Photo of Daniel Garcia, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I appreciate that you have made a choice to find a therapist with whom you would like to work. It is a crucial step that may have taken a great deal of deliberation. It is no easy feat to work with another in addressing past traumas, suffering, loss, pain, isolation, or the myriad of difficulties and stressors one may incur as a result of the human condition, though forging a story that is uniquely yours to transcend the hardships you have overcome takes tremendous strength and courage. I hope that you consider working with me in pursuing a path that leads towards self actualization, as it is profoundly rewarding and enriching.
I appreciate that you have made a choice to find a therapist with whom you would like to work. It is a crucial step that may have taken a great deal of deliberation. It is no easy feat to work with another in addressing past traumas, suffering, loss, pain, isolation, or the myriad of difficulties and stressors one may incur as a result of the human condition, though forging a story that is uniquely yours to transcend the hardships you have overcome takes tremendous strength and courage. I hope that you consider working with me in pursuing a path that leads towards self actualization, as it is profoundly rewarding and enriching.
(847) 892-4026 View (847) 892-4026
Photo of Sara A Forster, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara A Forster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I have experience and knowledge working with individuals who live with; depression, anxiety, bi-polar, personality disorders, schizophrenia, PTSD, substance abuse disorder, suicide and self-harm, LGBTQ+, and grief. I have an education in evidence-based therapies, such as but not limited to: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, motivational interviewing, harm-reduction, and SMART recovery. Newly (2024) added to my services, is animal assisted therapy. I acknowledge the uncertainty that comes with starting therapy, you’re not alone. I urge you though to not let fear stop you from getting the help you deserve.
I have experience and knowledge working with individuals who live with; depression, anxiety, bi-polar, personality disorders, schizophrenia, PTSD, substance abuse disorder, suicide and self-harm, LGBTQ+, and grief. I have an education in evidence-based therapies, such as but not limited to: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, motivational interviewing, harm-reduction, and SMART recovery. Newly (2024) added to my services, is animal assisted therapy. I acknowledge the uncertainty that comes with starting therapy, you’re not alone. I urge you though to not let fear stop you from getting the help you deserve.
(815) 859-8087 View (815) 859-8087
Photo of Megan Williams, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I utilize evidence-based techniques such as: mindfulness, expressive therapy, solution focused therapy, CBT, DBT, grief counseling.
We all experience times where we feel overwhelmed, stuck, struggle with a negative mindset, and need guidance to find new ways to cope. I encourage my clients to look at therapy as a consistent “check-up” purposefully focusing on both their mental health and overall well-being. I am an active and engaged therapist that will work with you to provide compassionate guidance, unconditional support and encouragement. I can treat teens as young as age 13, adults, and couples struggling with a vast number of issues. Let's work together to pave your new path to thriving instead of surviving one step at a time.
I utilize evidence-based techniques such as: mindfulness, expressive therapy, solution focused therapy, CBT, DBT, grief counseling.
We all experience times where we feel overwhelmed, stuck, struggle with a negative mindset, and need guidance to find new ways to cope. I encourage my clients to look at therapy as a consistent “check-up” purposefully focusing on both their mental health and overall well-being. I am an active and engaged therapist that will work with you to provide compassionate guidance, unconditional support and encouragement. I can treat teens as young as age 13, adults, and couples struggling with a vast number of issues. Let's work together to pave your new path to thriving instead of surviving one step at a time.
(815) 686-1484 View (815) 686-1484
Photo of Mary Rizzo, PsyD, Psychologist
Mary Rizzo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
My experience includes work in behavioral health hospitals, university counseling centers, and an outpatient family counseling setting. I work with adolescents, adults, and families, specializing in grief and loss, trauma, and relationship concerns. I also works with caregivers for chronic diseases, the transgender population, and those struggling with identity exploration. In addition to therapy, Dr. Rizzo provides psychological testing across the lifespan to assess intellectual functioning, academic concerns, ADHD-related symptoms, learning and behavioral styles, and diagnostic clarification regarding clinical diagnosis.
My experience includes work in behavioral health hospitals, university counseling centers, and an outpatient family counseling setting. I work with adolescents, adults, and families, specializing in grief and loss, trauma, and relationship concerns. I also works with caregivers for chronic diseases, the transgender population, and those struggling with identity exploration. In addition to therapy, Dr. Rizzo provides psychological testing across the lifespan to assess intellectual functioning, academic concerns, ADHD-related symptoms, learning and behavioral styles, and diagnostic clarification regarding clinical diagnosis.
(708) 294-7813 View (708) 294-7813
Photo of Torrie L Benson-Pryor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Torrie L Benson-Pryor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Waitlist for new clients
My experience in social services consists of 20+ years of growth, first as a case manager and Social Svc. Director prior to licensure, then clinical experience as a child and family therapist in community mental health, an LCSW in an small group practice, and now my own practice since February 2016. I have extensive knowledge working with people living with grief/loss, Childhood trauma, Depression, Anxiety/Panic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and Personality disorders. I am experienced and passionate about working with First Responders, Military, Medical Professional, and anyone that has had traumatic experiences.
My experience in social services consists of 20+ years of growth, first as a case manager and Social Svc. Director prior to licensure, then clinical experience as a child and family therapist in community mental health, an LCSW in an small group practice, and now my own practice since February 2016. I have extensive knowledge working with people living with grief/loss, Childhood trauma, Depression, Anxiety/Panic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and Personality disorders. I am experienced and passionate about working with First Responders, Military, Medical Professional, and anyone that has had traumatic experiences.
(815) 322-6310 View (815) 322-6310
Photo of Kelly Vinehout - Transformation Behavioral Health, PsyD, RN, DBT-LBC, Psychologist
Transformation Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PsyD, RN, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
Our approach to therapy is genuine, supportive, and solution-focused. We work collaboratively with you to build upon your strengths and find new ways to face challenges that lead to a more content and balanced life. Our experienced therapists treat ages 6 and older and use evidence-based treatments for a wide range of concerns, such as coping with chronic pain and medical conditions, mood swings, suicidal thoughts, self-harm urges, impulsivity, emotional reactivity, post-traumatic stress, difficulties in relationships, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life changes, and feeling stuck in achieving goals.
Our approach to therapy is genuine, supportive, and solution-focused. We work collaboratively with you to build upon your strengths and find new ways to face challenges that lead to a more content and balanced life. Our experienced therapists treat ages 6 and older and use evidence-based treatments for a wide range of concerns, such as coping with chronic pain and medical conditions, mood swings, suicidal thoughts, self-harm urges, impulsivity, emotional reactivity, post-traumatic stress, difficulties in relationships, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life changes, and feeling stuck in achieving goals.
(815) 323-6094 View (815) 323-6094
Photo of Jessica Lupont, MSW, LCSW, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Lupont
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Some of the therapeutic approaches you can expect to experience in my office include Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, Art Therapy and Grief Therapy.
I believe that building a trusting, therapeutic relationship with my clients is extremely important. I value meeting my clients where they are in their journey of life. By processing past experiences, we can work together to change negative patterns and build upon positive patterns.
Some of the therapeutic approaches you can expect to experience in my office include Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, Art Therapy and Grief Therapy.
I believe that building a trusting, therapeutic relationship with my clients is extremely important. I value meeting my clients where they are in their journey of life. By processing past experiences, we can work together to change negative patterns and build upon positive patterns.
(815) 567-8376 View (815) 567-8376
Photo of Jennifer Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, LPC, MA, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
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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.