Grief Therapists in Des Plaines, IL

Photo of Deborah Janos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Janos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016  (Online Only)
My experience includes extensive experience helping people manage feelings of grief and loss due to illness, divorce or death.
We all experience challenges and times when we feel overwhelmed. It's not uncommon to feel alone and isolated. We can work together to help you gain perspective, learn new coping strategies and change unhealthy ways of thinking. I take a caring, holistic approach that treats each person as a unique individual. My role is to be a guide in a partnership with you to help you define your goals in order to meet your full potential. I enjoy working with people to meet their goals through relational approaches and practical solutions to life concerns.
My experience includes extensive experience helping people manage feelings of grief and loss due to illness, divorce or death.
We all experience challenges and times when we feel overwhelmed. It's not uncommon to feel alone and isolated. We can work together to help you gain perspective, learn new coping strategies and change unhealthy ways of thinking. I take a caring, holistic approach that treats each person as a unique individual. My role is to be a guide in a partnership with you to help you define your goals in order to meet your full potential. I enjoy working with people to meet their goals through relational approaches and practical solutions to life concerns.
(224) 257-3264 View (224) 257-3264
Dyanne C Bresler
Counselor, MA, RN, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Plaines, IL 60016
All of those who suffer emotionally have something in common--a painful loss of security, of esteem, of support, of health, of love or of control.
I work to create an atmosphere that is safe for my clients. I may use humor, ask more questions, make comments. As we progress, I will suggest new ways to approach situations and problems. Sometimes I teach my clients relaxation techniques. We talk. I listen. Sometimes I teach or even pray with my clients. In my office, folks are invited to be direct, to be honest, and to know that there will be no judgment of them for revealing their "dark side." Their challenge is reveal who and what they are. Mine is to make it safe.
All of those who suffer emotionally have something in common--a painful loss of security, of esteem, of support, of health, of love or of control.
I work to create an atmosphere that is safe for my clients. I may use humor, ask more questions, make comments. As we progress, I will suggest new ways to approach situations and problems. Sometimes I teach my clients relaxation techniques. We talk. I listen. Sometimes I teach or even pray with my clients. In my office, folks are invited to be direct, to be honest, and to know that there will be no judgment of them for revealing their "dark side." Their challenge is reveal who and what they are. Mine is to make it safe.
(773) 414-4437 View (773) 414-4437
Photo of Maryam Yousuf, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maryam Yousuf
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Plaines, IL 60016  (Online Only)
As a Pakistani-American Muslim woman, I recognize that there is a significant need for counseling services within diverse communities. I'm especially passionate about working with individuals as they navigate major life transitions, such as going college, entering workforce, moving, marriage, parenthood, and so on. I also enjoy working with clients who experience grief and loss. I've worked with clients from various backgrounds and clinical presentations, focusing on addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, family issues, stressors, identity, etc.
As a Pakistani-American Muslim woman, I recognize that there is a significant need for counseling services within diverse communities. I'm especially passionate about working with individuals as they navigate major life transitions, such as going college, entering workforce, moving, marriage, parenthood, and so on. I also enjoy working with clients who experience grief and loss. I've worked with clients from various backgrounds and clinical presentations, focusing on addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, family issues, stressors, identity, etc.
(773) 232-7992 View (773) 232-7992
Photo of Sarah Maria Gutierrez, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Maria Gutierrez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60018  (Online Only)
As a licensed clinical social worker, I believe in every person's capacity to heal, grow and foster meaningful tranformation in their lives. In my practice, I am a companion to adults across the lifespan who have powerful stories to tell. People who work with me are often looking to develop a deeper, more conscious relationship with themselves. I strive to build a secure relationship with my clients, within which we might begin to reckon with experiences of complex trauma, process profound grief and pain, support greater connection with one's body, and make space for all aspects of one's Self to step into the light and be known.
As a licensed clinical social worker, I believe in every person's capacity to heal, grow and foster meaningful tranformation in their lives. In my practice, I am a companion to adults across the lifespan who have powerful stories to tell. People who work with me are often looking to develop a deeper, more conscious relationship with themselves. I strive to build a secure relationship with my clients, within which we might begin to reckon with experiences of complex trauma, process profound grief and pain, support greater connection with one's body, and make space for all aspects of one's Self to step into the light and be known.
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Photo of Deborah Garman, Psychologist
Deborah Garman
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016  (Online Only)
My clinical focus is on depression, anxiety, grief, loss and women's issues.
We all face times when life's challenges overwhelm our coping resources. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, career, family, or health issues, giving yourself space to sort through your feelings in a safe place can help build resilience and coping. Together we can identify the things that hold you back and prevent growth. I view therapy as an opportunity to reset the internal roadblocks and mindsets. My focus is on providing a non-judgemental and accepting environment in which to help for clients in both Illinois and Michigan.
My clinical focus is on depression, anxiety, grief, loss and women's issues.
We all face times when life's challenges overwhelm our coping resources. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, career, family, or health issues, giving yourself space to sort through your feelings in a safe place can help build resilience and coping. Together we can identify the things that hold you back and prevent growth. I view therapy as an opportunity to reset the internal roadblocks and mindsets. My focus is on providing a non-judgemental and accepting environment in which to help for clients in both Illinois and Michigan.
(773) 207-5386 View (773) 207-5386
Photo of Jennifer Pfaff, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Pfaff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
I believe in working with clients to help them reach their goals and improve their overall quality of life. I utilize a warm, relaxed, and welcoming approach to therapy and works with clients to create solutions to what has brought them to treatment. I don’t believe in one theory fits all clients or problems and adapt to meet the needs of those I am working with. I have experience working with clients facing depression, anxiety, trauma history, low self esteem, grief and loss, and school issues. I have specialized training in Play Therapy.
I believe in working with clients to help them reach their goals and improve their overall quality of life. I utilize a warm, relaxed, and welcoming approach to therapy and works with clients to create solutions to what has brought them to treatment. I don’t believe in one theory fits all clients or problems and adapt to meet the needs of those I am working with. I have experience working with clients facing depression, anxiety, trauma history, low self esteem, grief and loss, and school issues. I have specialized training in Play Therapy.
(847) 321-7064 View (847) 321-7064
Photo of Kim G Sherman, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Kim G Sherman
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Sometimes things get complicated. Life throws a lot at you and it is not always easy to cope. You deserve to feel good, be happy and function well. You will receive a genuine positive regard and therapy processing techniques to help you or your loved ones through transitional issues which may include anxiety, stress, loss, panic, interpersonal relationship issues or mental health disorders.
Sometimes things get complicated. Life throws a lot at you and it is not always easy to cope. You deserve to feel good, be happy and function well. You will receive a genuine positive regard and therapy processing techniques to help you or your loved ones through transitional issues which may include anxiety, stress, loss, panic, interpersonal relationship issues or mental health disorders.
(847) 457-0394 View (847) 457-0394
Photo of Annette Vander Ploeg, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annette Vander Ploeg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016  (Online Only)
For over 25 years, I have provided counseling and psychotherapy for children, adolescents, adults and couples. I am humbled by the courage it takes to reach out for help when faced with life's challenges. My approach is informed by my psychodynamic training, which acknowledges our early experiences, and cognitive behavioral therapy to help understand our thoughts, feelings and behaviors in the present day life. I work with a range of presenting problems such as depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic violence, loss and grief, relationship struggles, divorce and co-parenting issues and work place stress.
For over 25 years, I have provided counseling and psychotherapy for children, adolescents, adults and couples. I am humbled by the courage it takes to reach out for help when faced with life's challenges. My approach is informed by my psychodynamic training, which acknowledges our early experiences, and cognitive behavioral therapy to help understand our thoughts, feelings and behaviors in the present day life. I work with a range of presenting problems such as depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic violence, loss and grief, relationship struggles, divorce and co-parenting issues and work place stress.
(847) 423-6642 View (847) 423-6642
Photo of Maria Campuzano, MA, LCPC
Maria Campuzano
MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Des Plaines, IL 60018
Areas of interest include trauma, grief, mood and anxiety disorders, eating disorders, family/social conflict and life transitions.
I'm a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and work individuals, families, couples, children and adolescents and assist them in developing skills to live healthier and more functional lives. I take a warm, holistic and relational approach considering the mind-body connection and incorporate a variety of therapeutic techniques, including Eye Movement Desensitization And Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Family Systems. Grief Certified.
Areas of interest include trauma, grief, mood and anxiety disorders, eating disorders, family/social conflict and life transitions.
I'm a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and work individuals, families, couples, children and adolescents and assist them in developing skills to live healthier and more functional lives. I take a warm, holistic and relational approach considering the mind-body connection and incorporate a variety of therapeutic techniques, including Eye Movement Desensitization And Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Family Systems. Grief Certified.
(847) 558-7928 View (847) 558-7928
Photo of Gita Tewari, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gita Tewari
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016  (Online Only)
Telehealth - IL. Life can be complicated, messy and challenging. I work with adults, adolescents and children struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, bereavement, low self-esteem and life transitions. I provide a safe and accepting space where you can be open and honest with the difficulties you are experiencing in your life. As a career changer, my experiences as a writer and editor in the corporate and nonprofit sectors provide an additional perspective in my work with clients. My multicultural background is an asset in working with diverse populations.
Telehealth - IL. Life can be complicated, messy and challenging. I work with adults, adolescents and children struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, bereavement, low self-esteem and life transitions. I provide a safe and accepting space where you can be open and honest with the difficulties you are experiencing in your life. As a career changer, my experiences as a writer and editor in the corporate and nonprofit sectors provide an additional perspective in my work with clients. My multicultural background is an asset in working with diverse populations.
(847) 750-4965 View (847) 750-4965
Photo of Margo M Jacquot - The Juniper Center - Therapy for Children & Teens, PsyD, CSADC, BCETS, Psychologist
The Juniper Center - Therapy for Children & Teens
Psychologist, PsyD, CSADC, BCETS
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
We help kids and teens learn to reduce stress, deal effectively with anger and frustration, reduce stomachaches, headaches, and tics, cope with divorce and death, reduce sibling conflicts, increase concentration, sleep peacefully, and more.
As a parent, you want your child to be happy and successful. You want a calm, peaceful home where everyone feels safe and comfortable. If your child is sad, irritable, withdrawn, isolating, not sleeping, complaining of stomachaches or headaches, not getting the grades you know they can achieve or they just don't seem like themselves, our team of child and adolescent therapists will do everything in their power to help your child get back on track and feel better. Our therapists are easy to relate to and they get good results.
We help kids and teens learn to reduce stress, deal effectively with anger and frustration, reduce stomachaches, headaches, and tics, cope with divorce and death, reduce sibling conflicts, increase concentration, sleep peacefully, and more.
As a parent, you want your child to be happy and successful. You want a calm, peaceful home where everyone feels safe and comfortable. If your child is sad, irritable, withdrawn, isolating, not sleeping, complaining of stomachaches or headaches, not getting the grades you know they can achieve or they just don't seem like themselves, our team of child and adolescent therapists will do everything in their power to help your child get back on track and feel better. Our therapists are easy to relate to and they get good results.
(847) 973-7064 View (847) 973-7064
Photo of Mark Vogel, PsyD, Psychologist
Mark Vogel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
I treat people with depression, anxiety disorders, relationship issues, grief and loss issues, and those wanting to understand more about how their childhood years have impacted their personality and functioning.
I've worked in the mental health field since 1980. I look at therapy as a collaborative enterprise between client and therapist, with the aim of improving quality of life. I value a gentle, accepting way of looking at life problems, with an emphasis on understanding, rather than judging or condemning, oneself and others. I value curiosity as a valuable asset in the therapeutic process and I enjoy working with clients who can be curious about themselves and their lives. I work with the client to identify new skills, behaviors, or attitudes that can facilitate desired changes.
I treat people with depression, anxiety disorders, relationship issues, grief and loss issues, and those wanting to understand more about how their childhood years have impacted their personality and functioning.
I've worked in the mental health field since 1980. I look at therapy as a collaborative enterprise between client and therapist, with the aim of improving quality of life. I value a gentle, accepting way of looking at life problems, with an emphasis on understanding, rather than judging or condemning, oneself and others. I value curiosity as a valuable asset in the therapeutic process and I enjoy working with clients who can be curious about themselves and their lives. I work with the client to identify new skills, behaviors, or attitudes that can facilitate desired changes.
(847) 512-8698 View (847) 512-8698
Photo of Teresa Marzena Gielczynski, MSW, LCSW, ICDVP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teresa Marzena Gielczynski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ICDVP
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60018
During my 17 years of clinical experience, I worked with individuals, couples and families seeking therapy due to mental health concerns, behavioral problems, trauma, grief, and life transitions.
I understand that seeking counseling can be intimidating and may create many fears. This is why it is important to me to provide a safe, caring and nonjudgmental environment. I appreciate client's efforts and attempts to help themselves and I'm proud to be part of that process. I invite each client to be involved in the process of goal setting and treatment planning, which is specifically designed to each individual, based on their symptoms, needs and past experiences. Therapy is a process during which I address not only your symptoms but also any additional life stressors and challenges.
During my 17 years of clinical experience, I worked with individuals, couples and families seeking therapy due to mental health concerns, behavioral problems, trauma, grief, and life transitions.
I understand that seeking counseling can be intimidating and may create many fears. This is why it is important to me to provide a safe, caring and nonjudgmental environment. I appreciate client's efforts and attempts to help themselves and I'm proud to be part of that process. I invite each client to be involved in the process of goal setting and treatment planning, which is specifically designed to each individual, based on their symptoms, needs and past experiences. Therapy is a process during which I address not only your symptoms but also any additional life stressors and challenges.
(847) 737-9626 View (847) 737-9626
Photo of Catherine Hauser, PhD, RN, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Catherine Hauser
Counselor, PhD, RN, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
When I utilize Stress-Reduction techniques, my experience has been that persons experience freedom from anxiety, depression, and fear of loss of control over life events as well as the absence or lessening of symptoms, such as pain.
For over 20 years I have been helping people deal with the stress in their lives that contributes to depression, anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive behaviors, anger management, relationship and addiction problems. acute and chronic illness, such as cancer In overcoming stress, I use an interpersonal approach, combining both cognitive behavioral strategies, along with mind-body stress-reduction techniques, such as hypnosis and meditation training. When individuals improve their quality of life by reducing stress and dealing with underlying psychological problems, they are able to regain control over their lives,and have more meaningful relationships. I provide the following programs:Stress-Reduction for Emotional Distress,and for Acute and Chronic Illness,Group Therapy for Cancer Survivors, and Parent Coaching.
When I utilize Stress-Reduction techniques, my experience has been that persons experience freedom from anxiety, depression, and fear of loss of control over life events as well as the absence or lessening of symptoms, such as pain.
For over 20 years I have been helping people deal with the stress in their lives that contributes to depression, anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive behaviors, anger management, relationship and addiction problems. acute and chronic illness, such as cancer In overcoming stress, I use an interpersonal approach, combining both cognitive behavioral strategies, along with mind-body stress-reduction techniques, such as hypnosis and meditation training. When individuals improve their quality of life by reducing stress and dealing with underlying psychological problems, they are able to regain control over their lives,and have more meaningful relationships. I provide the following programs:Stress-Reduction for Emotional Distress,and for Acute and Chronic Illness,Group Therapy for Cancer Survivors, and Parent Coaching.
(847) 416-0247 View (847) 416-0247
Photo of Lisa Campbell, PsyD, Psychologist
Lisa Campbell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Aging can be difficult--whether your own or in people you love. You might be grieving the loss of treasured relationships, frustrated with declining health, struggling with caregiving and changing roles ... or simply wanting to age gracefully. Many people experience worry, depression, and anger at times like this; others feel tired or overwhelmed; few know where to turn for information and guidance you can trust, from people who might understand. Aging is my specialty, and I would like the chance to help you reach some peace with your midlife crisis, life transition, grief or pain, caregiving, ... your life.
Aging can be difficult--whether your own or in people you love. You might be grieving the loss of treasured relationships, frustrated with declining health, struggling with caregiving and changing roles ... or simply wanting to age gracefully. Many people experience worry, depression, and anger at times like this; others feel tired or overwhelmed; few know where to turn for information and guidance you can trust, from people who might understand. Aging is my specialty, and I would like the chance to help you reach some peace with your midlife crisis, life transition, grief or pain, caregiving, ... your life.
(224) 676-9539 View (224) 676-9539
Photo of Veronica K. Gulezian, LCPC, CADC, EMDR
Veronica K. Gulezian
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016  (Online Only)
My specialties include trauma and grief (including suicide bereavement), relationship concerns (especially healing from narcissistic abuse - I no longer see clients with NPD), anxiety, identity development, life transitions, LGBTQ+ issues, and addictions counseling.
Choosing to seek counseling can be a vulnerable decision. Maybe you're wondering if things are really that bad, or if counseling can even work. As someone who has been on both sides of the therapist's chair, I can confidently say that counseling can provide relief. I strive to create a safe and collaborative therapeutic space in order to help you develop a stronger, peaceful, and more positive sense of self. Together, we can figure out how to address any personal, professional, or relationship issues you want to bring to the table.
My specialties include trauma and grief (including suicide bereavement), relationship concerns (especially healing from narcissistic abuse - I no longer see clients with NPD), anxiety, identity development, life transitions, LGBTQ+ issues, and addictions counseling.
Choosing to seek counseling can be a vulnerable decision. Maybe you're wondering if things are really that bad, or if counseling can even work. As someone who has been on both sides of the therapist's chair, I can confidently say that counseling can provide relief. I strive to create a safe and collaborative therapeutic space in order to help you develop a stronger, peaceful, and more positive sense of self. Together, we can figure out how to address any personal, professional, or relationship issues you want to bring to the table.
(773) 347-7528 View (773) 347-7528
Photo of Analeise Parchen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Analeise Parchen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR and EFT/Tapping lend themselves to my intuitive side, and Cognitive Behavioral Treatment helps a person shift anxiety disorders as well grief treatment.
Hello! I am Analeise, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working in the NW side of Chicago where I offer individual and family therapy. I chiefly use Strengths Based, Client-Driven, and Person-Centered therapy. We are the experts on ourselves, even when thinking that conditions inside or outside of us are running the show. We have an innate drive to heal and grow. Therapy is designed to connect us with the truest expression of ourselves, not driven by anxiety or reactivity. It is a relief to know this is possible to access our best self; as a partner, parent, family member, or co-worker.
EMDR and EFT/Tapping lend themselves to my intuitive side, and Cognitive Behavioral Treatment helps a person shift anxiety disorders as well grief treatment.
Hello! I am Analeise, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working in the NW side of Chicago where I offer individual and family therapy. I chiefly use Strengths Based, Client-Driven, and Person-Centered therapy. We are the experts on ourselves, even when thinking that conditions inside or outside of us are running the show. We have an innate drive to heal and grow. Therapy is designed to connect us with the truest expression of ourselves, not driven by anxiety or reactivity. It is a relief to know this is possible to access our best self; as a partner, parent, family member, or co-worker.
(773) 832-5650 View (773) 832-5650
Photo of Tanya Pashkuleva, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tanya Pashkuleva
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Plaines, IL 60016  (Online Only)
If you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions and adjustments, trauma, relational issues, addictive behaviors, or other concerns, and you strive to move toward greater self-awareness, emotional well-being and flexibility, recognize your inner strengths and resourcefulness, and take steps toward positive growth, let's connect.
If you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions and adjustments, trauma, relational issues, addictive behaviors, or other concerns, and you strive to move toward greater self-awareness, emotional well-being and flexibility, recognize your inner strengths and resourcefulness, and take steps toward positive growth, let's connect.
(872) 326-9595 View (872) 326-9595
Photo of Tory Krone - Proactive Therapy, LLC, AM, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Proactive Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Plaines, IL 60018
Life can be difficult and all of us struggle at times. We deal with hardship, loss, pain, break ups, hurt, relationship turmoil, tough transitions, crisis, sadness, worry and difficulty managing intense feelings. We are also resillient. We all have the inherent ability to change and better ourselves. We offer you the space and tools to learn and grow through collaborative, non-judgmental, compassionate therapy.
Life can be difficult and all of us struggle at times. We deal with hardship, loss, pain, break ups, hurt, relationship turmoil, tough transitions, crisis, sadness, worry and difficulty managing intense feelings. We are also resillient. We all have the inherent ability to change and better ourselves. We offer you the space and tools to learn and grow through collaborative, non-judgmental, compassionate therapy.
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Photo of Christina DeMeola, MA, LCPC
Christina DeMeola
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Des Plaines, IL 60018  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Something is not ok. Maybe you can't stop worrying, and stress wakes you up at night and you can't turn off your brain. Maybe there are things that you can't talk to your friends about. A relationship has ended, or you've found yourself in the same kind of relationship again. Maybe someone you love has died and you don't know what to do, or it's been a while and people think you should be "over it" by now. Maybe you've just gotten a scary diagnosis. Maybe you have a decision to make and need help figuring out what to do. Being human is really, really hard sometimes; being in therapy can help.
Something is not ok. Maybe you can't stop worrying, and stress wakes you up at night and you can't turn off your brain. Maybe there are things that you can't talk to your friends about. A relationship has ended, or you've found yourself in the same kind of relationship again. Maybe someone you love has died and you don't know what to do, or it's been a while and people think you should be "over it" by now. Maybe you've just gotten a scary diagnosis. Maybe you have a decision to make and need help figuring out what to do. Being human is really, really hard sometimes; being in therapy can help.
(872) 231-3539 View (872) 231-3539
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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.