Therapists in Crystal Lake, IL
![Photo of Sara Lemke - Revival Therapy, MA, LCPC, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bfd0a47-b9a4-4dc1-b765-9e715932a981/2/320x400.jpeg)
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!
![Photo of Megan Williams, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8dd74f09-dabf-47a2-ac67-06c41033fff9/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Mercedes Conus, MS, LPC, EMDR, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ee5238a-4977-4246-8726-0212f2629c62/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dan Blair - Blair Counseling and Mediation, LMFT, LCPC, NCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cef6143-bc9f-4bbb-b20a-64b6f96ad2c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our clients enjoy humor, are honest, and are wanting to try new things if it makes sense to them. Some want relief from depression, or various forms of anxiety including trauma and grief. Others struggle with addictions and addictive behavior and are looking for ways to feel more in control. Or, they have concerns about their kids, ADHD, autism, or other behavior, and would like someone to come along side them to help support them or their child. Services are also available in Spanish. Christian counseling can be requested. Prefer Communication Coaching to Therapy? Find our app (MinuteMood.com) on Google Play and Apple Play stores.
Our clients enjoy humor, are honest, and are wanting to try new things if it makes sense to them. Some want relief from depression, or various forms of anxiety including trauma and grief. Others struggle with addictions and addictive behavior and are looking for ways to feel more in control. Or, they have concerns about their kids, ADHD, autism, or other behavior, and would like someone to come along side them to help support them or their child. Services are also available in Spanish. Christian counseling can be requested. Prefer Communication Coaching to Therapy? Find our app (MinuteMood.com) on Google Play and Apple Play stores.
![Photo of Torrie L Benson-Pryor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d0ab585-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Loan Nguyen Korolczuk, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9783e408-7d70-469f-9b3f-675d555b267f/3/320x400.jpeg)
My experience varies in different areas such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/loss, crisis/trauma, family of origin issues, and any other struggles you may have.
I think of life as a cross-country road trip taking us on an adventure. The adventure can be exciting but also scary at times. We make choices on where we wish to go. However, the ride can be smooth or shaky and take us through dark tunnels, across bridges, rivers, and hills. I'm your assistant navigator offering support, encouragement, empowerment, but also challenging you forward towards your chosen destination(s). Together we navigate through any obstacles in order to help you achieve your goals and discover the life you want to live.
My experience varies in different areas such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/loss, crisis/trauma, family of origin issues, and any other struggles you may have.
I think of life as a cross-country road trip taking us on an adventure. The adventure can be exciting but also scary at times. We make choices on where we wish to go. However, the ride can be smooth or shaky and take us through dark tunnels, across bridges, rivers, and hills. I'm your assistant navigator offering support, encouragement, empowerment, but also challenging you forward towards your chosen destination(s). Together we navigate through any obstacles in order to help you achieve your goals and discover the life you want to live.
![Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners Pllc - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9dfe2c4-5d39-4b53-b388-3b012a927917/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jennifer Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, LPC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f2999b9-10a8-4153-8f75-7b2c2704a914/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jennifer L. Jackson, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff34282f-ffba-4580-ba49-eda9e05a266b/2/320x400.png)
Jennifer L. Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Hello, my name is Jennifer Lee Jackson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience working with clients living with depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Excoriation Disorder, addiction, unhelpful thinking styles, low self-esteem, codependency, poor boundary setting, PMDD, and trauma. I am an eclectic therapist who uses Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical, Eclectic, Psychodynamic, and Couples Therapy during treatment with my clients. I believe in creating an egalitarian relationship with you to foster a safe and empowering environment for long-term recovery and stability.
Hello, my name is Jennifer Lee Jackson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience working with clients living with depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Excoriation Disorder, addiction, unhelpful thinking styles, low self-esteem, codependency, poor boundary setting, PMDD, and trauma. I am an eclectic therapist who uses Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical, Eclectic, Psychodynamic, and Couples Therapy during treatment with my clients. I believe in creating an egalitarian relationship with you to foster a safe and empowering environment for long-term recovery and stability.
![Photo of Celeste Ballard - Within Holistic Counseling, MA, LCPC, LMT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/384b34df-8041-4335-bcc8-501588c4179d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Within Holistic Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
At Within Holistic Counseling, we believe in getting to the root of the problem. Traditional talk therapy has been proven highly effective, so we combine this with meditation based therapy and somatic psychology to make it even better. To create lasting change in your life, you need to understand where your feelings are coming from. We are clinically trained in psychological techniques as well as, having specialized training in mindfulness meditation and the ability to create a holistic framework that will assist you in getting to the root of your patterns to heal and change them. Your work will be tailored individually for you.
At Within Holistic Counseling, we believe in getting to the root of the problem. Traditional talk therapy has been proven highly effective, so we combine this with meditation based therapy and somatic psychology to make it even better. To create lasting change in your life, you need to understand where your feelings are coming from. We are clinically trained in psychological techniques as well as, having specialized training in mindfulness meditation and the ability to create a holistic framework that will assist you in getting to the root of your patterns to heal and change them. Your work will be tailored individually for you.
![Photo of Shirley Horsley - Holistic Care for Women & Family-Shirley Horsley , LCPC, Life, Coach](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/645e9b7a-5af6-479a-9d30-dfe29af512e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Holistic Care for Women & Family-Shirley Horsley
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Are you experiencing anxiety, sadness, family discord, or depressed mood? Are you in a relationship that makes you feel powerless, devalued or unimportant? My focus is to empower women to overcome their fears and face life challenges with confidence. Together we can discover your strengths and develop new ways to approach and solve problems and transform your life from the ordinary to the extraordinary. Once a woman understands herself and is able to recognize her triggers that hold her back from living up to her potential that is the beginning of the healing process and unleashing the power within.
Are you experiencing anxiety, sadness, family discord, or depressed mood? Are you in a relationship that makes you feel powerless, devalued or unimportant? My focus is to empower women to overcome their fears and face life challenges with confidence. Together we can discover your strengths and develop new ways to approach and solve problems and transform your life from the ordinary to the extraordinary. Once a woman understands herself and is able to recognize her triggers that hold her back from living up to her potential that is the beginning of the healing process and unleashing the power within.
15 Second Videos
Mercedes Conus
Blair Counseling and Mediation
Loan Nguyen Korolczuk
![Photo of Cindy Lynn Esposito, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46c53d89-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
All of my clients are the best! They come to see me with all types of issues and I enjoy treating each client as an individual. I treat many different types of clients with mutual respect and empathy. I feel blessed to be with clients on their journey whatever that may be.
All of my clients are the best! They come to see me with all types of issues and I enjoy treating each client as an individual. I treat many different types of clients with mutual respect and empathy. I feel blessed to be with clients on their journey whatever that may be.
![Photo of Natalie Freeman, LPC, CDWF, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8abf5767-deb0-41aa-8969-6dbcdd17b843/3/320x400.jpeg)
Natalie Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CDWF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
You may notice distrust of change, discomfort with a lack of direction, or maybe you numb or isolate when overwhelmed. You may also have friends and family you "should" be able to talk with, however without the space to explore and ability to give yourself permission, we often feel stuck or that something is missing.
You may notice distrust of change, discomfort with a lack of direction, or maybe you numb or isolate when overwhelmed. You may also have friends and family you "should" be able to talk with, however without the space to explore and ability to give yourself permission, we often feel stuck or that something is missing.
![Photo of Justin William Schloer - Changing Phases, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b391492d-12d6-4273-bee9-bdab5c5204a0/3/320x400.jpeg)
My outlook on life is that we are all on a journey. Some people move faster than others. Some need a helping hand along the way; but we can all arrive to where we are going, where we want to be…every single one of us. I am here to help motivate when you lack motivation. I am here to listen when you feel unheard. I am here to push when you feel weak, or pull when you don’t feel strong enough. I’m also here to sit with you when you aren’t ready or feel unable to make a decision. I am here at your pace.
My outlook on life is that we are all on a journey. Some people move faster than others. Some need a helping hand along the way; but we can all arrive to where we are going, where we want to be…every single one of us. I am here to help motivate when you lack motivation. I am here to listen when you feel unheard. I am here to push when you feel weak, or pull when you don’t feel strong enough. I’m also here to sit with you when you aren’t ready or feel unable to make a decision. I am here at your pace.
![Photo of Denene S Lewis, MS, LCPC, LPHA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa6c8e70-2a63-4f59-9f49-a3c0e60676a9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Denene Lewis has been working in the mental health field for over 25 years and has been providing counseling services for 20+ years. Her approach is integrative and individualized to meet each client’s needs. The goal is to assist clients in reaching their full potential through education, teaching, and modeling skills while helping them identify barriers that prevent change.
Denene Lewis has been working in the mental health field for over 25 years and has been providing counseling services for 20+ years. Her approach is integrative and individualized to meet each client’s needs. The goal is to assist clients in reaching their full potential through education, teaching, and modeling skills while helping them identify barriers that prevent change.
![Photo of Jennifer C Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5292c9de-7673-4aea-be21-9a357368b291/2/320x400.jpeg)
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
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 and Integrative approach and have 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 and Integrative approach and have 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.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Leida Woodham, MA, CRC, LCPC, AMFT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edd87fcb-2e29-4406-924f-a8fa4c367e7e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in helping clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and bipolar related disorders.
Personal growth and soul-searching take courage. Therapy is a journey, and I am ready to begin that journey with those courageous clients. It takes courage to seek help and sit with a stranger, the therapist, and talk about what troubles you, what motivates you and what you love. Counseling is about you and for you. No matter the age and stage in your life seek help if you feel you need it. At times, what is going on in our lives seems insurmountable. Having someone to provide encouragement, listen without judgement, and helping you set goals and realistic expectations can ease the burden.
I specialize in helping clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and bipolar related disorders.
Personal growth and soul-searching take courage. Therapy is a journey, and I am ready to begin that journey with those courageous clients. It takes courage to seek help and sit with a stranger, the therapist, and talk about what troubles you, what motivates you and what you love. Counseling is about you and for you. No matter the age and stage in your life seek help if you feel you need it. At times, what is going on in our lives seems insurmountable. Having someone to provide encouragement, listen without judgement, and helping you set goals and realistic expectations can ease the burden.
![Photo of Leila B Nelson, MA, LCPC, CCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1b171c7-b905-4265-bb5f-36632bdf679d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have considerable experience treating: Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Crisis and Trauma Issues, Codependency, Couples & Family Therapy, Decision Making Depression, Emotional Struggles, Grief, Improving Relationships, OCD, Panic Attacks, PTSD, and Women's Issues.
Struggling from time to time with life's stresses is something we all have in common. I'm easy to talk to, practical, down to earth and good at what I do. I specialize in helping people just like you discover meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral and relational struggles.
I have considerable experience treating: Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Crisis and Trauma Issues, Codependency, Couples & Family Therapy, Decision Making Depression, Emotional Struggles, Grief, Improving Relationships, OCD, Panic Attacks, PTSD, and Women's Issues.
Struggling from time to time with life's stresses is something we all have in common. I'm easy to talk to, practical, down to earth and good at what I do. I specialize in helping people just like you discover meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral and relational struggles.
![Photo of Julia Werderitch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9efc9464-4646-48bf-be52-8fe7d3cf64c1/1/320x400.png)
Julia Werderitch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McHenry, IL 60051 (Online Only)
or new stressors such as grief, a breakup, life transitions, general life or work, we will come up with a plan.
Life is sometimes hard & the idea of starting the process of therapy can add to that stress and anxiety. You've already taken the first step by being here on Psychology Today. If you are constantly feeling frustrated, anxious or overwhelmed, I am here to help you figure out what's going on and move towards the life you want to live. I will support you on your journey towards positive change and emotional well-being. My approach is warm, engaging, collaborative and sometimes even humorous.
or new stressors such as grief, a breakup, life transitions, general life or work, we will come up with a plan.
Life is sometimes hard & the idea of starting the process of therapy can add to that stress and anxiety. You've already taken the first step by being here on Psychology Today. If you are constantly feeling frustrated, anxious or overwhelmed, I am here to help you figure out what's going on and move towards the life you want to live. I will support you on your journey towards positive change and emotional well-being. My approach is warm, engaging, collaborative and sometimes even humorous.
![Photo of Melody Wilson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e22cc93a-9c6b-46bc-b6ce-8ecc4d1beb24/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Melody Wilson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Indiana with over 16 years of clinical experience working with adults with Anger Management, Coping Skills, Grief, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Life Coaching, Parenting, Schizophrenia, Stress, Self Esteem, and Life Transitions. I use various therapy modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and all those which are adequate for my client’s mental health needs. I firmly believe that support is not a weakness but a need!
My name is Melody Wilson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Indiana with over 16 years of clinical experience working with adults with Anger Management, Coping Skills, Grief, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Life Coaching, Parenting, Schizophrenia, Stress, Self Esteem, and Life Transitions. I use various therapy modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and all those which are adequate for my client’s mental health needs. I firmly believe that support is not a weakness but a need!
See more therapy options for Crystal Lake
Nearby Grief Therapists Searches for Crystal Lake
- Algonquin
- Carpentersville
- Cary
- Fox River Grove
- Huntley
- Johnsburg
- Lake In The Hills
- McHenry
- South Barrington
- Wauconda
- West Dundee
- Woodstock
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.