Grief Therapists in Lakeview, IL

Photo of Helen Alex, PsyD, Psychologist
Helen Alex
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613  (Online Only)
We all respond differently to losses and life changes, so our work together will focus on your unique experiences and feelings.
Losses and life transitions can change everything you thought you knew. Maybe a family member has been recently diagnosed with cancer, the loss of someone close to you has altered your outlook on life, or life transitions have changed your relationships with others or with yourself. I specialize in supporting adults who are navigating life changes, transitions, and losses. Together we will explore the best ways for you to cope with difficult emotions, understand yourself and who you are becoming, increase your sense of self-worth and purpose, and discover renewed direction in life.
We all respond differently to losses and life changes, so our work together will focus on your unique experiences and feelings.
Losses and life transitions can change everything you thought you knew. Maybe a family member has been recently diagnosed with cancer, the loss of someone close to you has altered your outlook on life, or life transitions have changed your relationships with others or with yourself. I specialize in supporting adults who are navigating life changes, transitions, and losses. Together we will explore the best ways for you to cope with difficult emotions, understand yourself and who you are becoming, increase your sense of self-worth and purpose, and discover renewed direction in life.
(331) 233-1379 View (331) 233-1379
Photo of Stephanie Taiber, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stephanie Taiber
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613
I work with teens, adults of all ages, and couples to help them cope and thrive through life’s challenging transitions. With special sensitivity to trauma, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, I support clients in exploring internal and external challenges to develop healthy strategies for moving forward. I am particularly passionate about working with themes related to grief, loss, end-of-life, and reproductive mental health concerns. I also work with couples to navigate complex relationship dynamics and parenting stress.
I work with teens, adults of all ages, and couples to help them cope and thrive through life’s challenging transitions. With special sensitivity to trauma, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, I support clients in exploring internal and external challenges to develop healthy strategies for moving forward. I am particularly passionate about working with themes related to grief, loss, end-of-life, and reproductive mental health concerns. I also work with couples to navigate complex relationship dynamics and parenting stress.
(872) 278-5009 View (872) 278-5009
Photo of Suzie Thomas, LCPC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Suzie Thomas
Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Are you looking to understand yourself better, clarify your values and make strides towards your desired life? I'd love to support you. I have extensive experience helping clients through eating disorder recovery (including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and ARFID), body image, anxiety, grief and loss, and life transitions. I believe change is possible for every individual and that it’s easier to attain with support, skills and encouragement. I strive to create an accepting and non-judgmental environment where hard things can be explored and held with curiosity and compassion.
Are you looking to understand yourself better, clarify your values and make strides towards your desired life? I'd love to support you. I have extensive experience helping clients through eating disorder recovery (including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and ARFID), body image, anxiety, grief and loss, and life transitions. I believe change is possible for every individual and that it’s easier to attain with support, skills and encouragement. I strive to create an accepting and non-judgmental environment where hard things can be explored and held with curiosity and compassion.
(312) 586-9716 View (312) 586-9716
Photo of Kori C Mill, MA, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kori C Mill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613
I have particular interest and experience in dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, interpersonal problems, self-esteem, family of origin issues, young adults, abuse survivors, and personal growth.
Have you been in emotional pain for a long time, or do you feel that you are currently in a state of crisis? I can offer you an empathic and collaborative relationship that is focused on your healing and development. I will support and assist you in a process of self-exploration that involves making connections between your past experiences and your present relationships and functioning. Together we will identify your self-defeating patterns of perception and behavior and discover your own unique capacities for growth and change.
I have particular interest and experience in dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, interpersonal problems, self-esteem, family of origin issues, young adults, abuse survivors, and personal growth.
Have you been in emotional pain for a long time, or do you feel that you are currently in a state of crisis? I can offer you an empathic and collaborative relationship that is focused on your healing and development. I will support and assist you in a process of self-exploration that involves making connections between your past experiences and your present relationships and functioning. Together we will identify your self-defeating patterns of perception and behavior and discover your own unique capacities for growth and change.
(773) 717-2918 View (773) 717-2918
Photo of Jennifer Fuller - Fuller Counseling Group, LCPC, Counselor
Fuller Counseling Group
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613
If you have been struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, addiction, trauma-related difficulties, relationship issues, chronic stress, work stress, feeling stuck, low self-confidence, or any of the other areas we specialize in, and are ready to take the first step into living a healthier life, please contact us.
Fuller Counseling was founded with the mission of creating a space that is comfortable, warm, compassionate, and free of judgment. We aim to work with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples and families to challenge negative beliefs, patterns, maladaptive coping skills, along with other difficult cycles that may have appeared throughout the course of life. We work with clients to create goals and treatment plans that will lead to healthier ways of living and utilize productive coping mechanisms. We empower our clients to make changes and gain insight that will stop old patterns and increase self-awareness and confidence.
If you have been struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, addiction, trauma-related difficulties, relationship issues, chronic stress, work stress, feeling stuck, low self-confidence, or any of the other areas we specialize in, and are ready to take the first step into living a healthier life, please contact us.
Fuller Counseling was founded with the mission of creating a space that is comfortable, warm, compassionate, and free of judgment. We aim to work with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples and families to challenge negative beliefs, patterns, maladaptive coping skills, along with other difficult cycles that may have appeared throughout the course of life. We work with clients to create goals and treatment plans that will lead to healthier ways of living and utilize productive coping mechanisms. We empower our clients to make changes and gain insight that will stop old patterns and increase self-awareness and confidence.
(773) 242-9523 View (773) 242-9523
Photo of John Moore - Calm Anxiety Clinic , Licensed Professional Counselor
Calm Anxiety Clinic
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613
Our therapists offer a warm, gentle environment to help you with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, self-esteem & identity challenges.
A solution focused team of professionals who want to help you reduce anxiety, dial down stress, and create inner balance. Learn how to live a calmer, more relaxed life. Our staff truly believes that every person - including you - holds the power to effect meaningful, lasting change. When you visit with one of our therapists, you can expect a warm, affirming, and caring environment. Using a collaborative approach rooted in evidence-based modalities, we encourage self-awareness, skill-building and new beginnings. Helping you get "un-stuck" is part of what we do.
Our therapists offer a warm, gentle environment to help you with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, self-esteem & identity challenges.
A solution focused team of professionals who want to help you reduce anxiety, dial down stress, and create inner balance. Learn how to live a calmer, more relaxed life. Our staff truly believes that every person - including you - holds the power to effect meaningful, lasting change. When you visit with one of our therapists, you can expect a warm, affirming, and caring environment. Using a collaborative approach rooted in evidence-based modalities, we encourage self-awareness, skill-building and new beginnings. Helping you get "un-stuck" is part of what we do.
(773) 985-8812 View (773) 985-8812
Photo of Melanie Burbules, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melanie Burbules
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613
I love working with clients who are feeling stuck or sense something holding them back from their true selves, and am especially skilled in helping those who are dealing with anxiety, depression, chronic stress, identity exploration, life transitions, grief, trauma, and body image. I acknowledge how systemic injustice impacts wellbeing, particularly for women of color and the LGBTQIA+ community. Healing is about discovery, with evolving goals and sometimes contradictions as you align with your true self. Through a safe and collaborative therapeutic environment, I encourage you to explore and embrace your authenticity.
I love working with clients who are feeling stuck or sense something holding them back from their true selves, and am especially skilled in helping those who are dealing with anxiety, depression, chronic stress, identity exploration, life transitions, grief, trauma, and body image. I acknowledge how systemic injustice impacts wellbeing, particularly for women of color and the LGBTQIA+ community. Healing is about discovery, with evolving goals and sometimes contradictions as you align with your true self. Through a safe and collaborative therapeutic environment, I encourage you to explore and embrace your authenticity.
(708) 905-4309 View (708) 905-4309
Photo of Cristina From, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cristina From
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613
I work with adults of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, mood and bipolar disorders, life stressors and transitions, relationship issues, self-esteem, stress management, health issues, trauma, and grief. My clients will work toward gaining the confidence and skills they need to accomplish their goals, whatever they may be. I pride myself on building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients and creating a safe, empathetic, judgment-free, and compassionate environment in which they can feel comfortable and thrive in.
I work with adults of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, mood and bipolar disorders, life stressors and transitions, relationship issues, self-esteem, stress management, health issues, trauma, and grief. My clients will work toward gaining the confidence and skills they need to accomplish their goals, whatever they may be. I pride myself on building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients and creating a safe, empathetic, judgment-free, and compassionate environment in which they can feel comfortable and thrive in.
(312) 854-8440 View (312) 854-8440
Photo of Beckie Fischer, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Beckie Fischer
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) licensed in Illinois with over 18 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, infertility, parenting difficulties, career challenges, OCD and PTSD/trauma. I have a specialization in working with victims of crime (physical/sexual abuse and traumatic grief and loss) as well as law enforcement/military members and their significant others and children.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) licensed in Illinois with over 18 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, infertility, parenting difficulties, career challenges, OCD and PTSD/trauma. I have a specialization in working with victims of crime (physical/sexual abuse and traumatic grief and loss) as well as law enforcement/military members and their significant others and children.
(773) 974-4141 View (773) 974-4141
Photo of Nikki Malazarte, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nikki Malazarte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613
I enjoy working with individuals navigating their anxiety, feelings of walking between two cultural worlds, complex grief & loss, depression, family dynamics, forced displacement, gender identity, intergenerational trauma, all life stage transitions, spirituality, & relationship with a breast cancer diagnosis. With a trauma-focused & intersectional lens, I primarily work with adolescents, young adults & elderly people from AAPI, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, immigrant & refugee communities. I focus on 1.5 and 2nd generation Filipino/a/x & South Asian American Immigrants, young adults with breast cancer & older adults chronic comorbidities.
I enjoy working with individuals navigating their anxiety, feelings of walking between two cultural worlds, complex grief & loss, depression, family dynamics, forced displacement, gender identity, intergenerational trauma, all life stage transitions, spirituality, & relationship with a breast cancer diagnosis. With a trauma-focused & intersectional lens, I primarily work with adolescents, young adults & elderly people from AAPI, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, immigrant & refugee communities. I focus on 1.5 and 2nd generation Filipino/a/x & South Asian American Immigrants, young adults with breast cancer & older adults chronic comorbidities.
(773) 945-9823 View (773) 945-9823
Photo of Jack Beck, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jack Beck
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613
I specialize in working with young people and adolescents struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, grief & loss, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Social Worker who is passionate about helping youth, adolescents, and adults establish meaning in their lives. My approach helps my clients feel both motivated and comfortable to produce change by focusing on the strengths of each client. I understand that therapy can be quite intimidating and I seek to establish a safe and understood relationship to empower change. I believe that when you feel safe and are heard, it unlocks the potential to heal and grow.
I specialize in working with young people and adolescents struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, grief & loss, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Social Worker who is passionate about helping youth, adolescents, and adults establish meaning in their lives. My approach helps my clients feel both motivated and comfortable to produce change by focusing on the strengths of each client. I understand that therapy can be quite intimidating and I seek to establish a safe and understood relationship to empower change. I believe that when you feel safe and are heard, it unlocks the potential to heal and grow.
(224) 505-8449 View (224) 505-8449
Photo of Angie Green, PsyD, Psychologist
Angie Green
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals who want to focus on life adjustments/transitions, identity development, relationship concerns, grief and loss concerns, substance use concerns, trauma, depressive symptoms and anxiety symptoms.
Hi there, glad you’re here. If you’re ready, I’m excited to get started on your journey in therapy together. As someone who comes to the work with warmth and empathy, I strive to build a therapeutic relationship with my clients that opens up space for healing and growth. In our time together, I would aim to help you understand how past events and relationships have shaped your way in the world and look to open up new possibilities. By discussing how the past may be impeding our present, I believe we can build towards a future worth looking forward to.
I enjoy working with individuals who want to focus on life adjustments/transitions, identity development, relationship concerns, grief and loss concerns, substance use concerns, trauma, depressive symptoms and anxiety symptoms.
Hi there, glad you’re here. If you’re ready, I’m excited to get started on your journey in therapy together. As someone who comes to the work with warmth and empathy, I strive to build a therapeutic relationship with my clients that opens up space for healing and growth. In our time together, I would aim to help you understand how past events and relationships have shaped your way in the world and look to open up new possibilities. By discussing how the past may be impeding our present, I believe we can build towards a future worth looking forward to.
(708) 773-4616 View (708) 773-4616
Photo of Gail Gogliotti, LCPC, BC-DMT, Counselor
Gail Gogliotti
Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613
I frequently work with adults and couples who are looking to improve communication patterns, process grief and loss, integrate trauma, and find stability during life's ups and downs.
Welcome! I am a clinical counselor and dance/movement therapist, and I am deeply committed to helping my clients find balance and achieve positive change. In my work, I integrate both talking and movement as therapeutic tools to explore the underlying issues and patterns that may be affecting your well-being. My approach is holistic, considering not just the mind but also the body in the healing process. My goal is to guide you towards a life that you create, want, and deserve. I believe in the power of both verbal and non-verbal communication to help you understand how you process your experiences and interact with the world.
I frequently work with adults and couples who are looking to improve communication patterns, process grief and loss, integrate trauma, and find stability during life's ups and downs.
Welcome! I am a clinical counselor and dance/movement therapist, and I am deeply committed to helping my clients find balance and achieve positive change. In my work, I integrate both talking and movement as therapeutic tools to explore the underlying issues and patterns that may be affecting your well-being. My approach is holistic, considering not just the mind but also the body in the healing process. My goal is to guide you towards a life that you create, want, and deserve. I believe in the power of both verbal and non-verbal communication to help you understand how you process your experiences and interact with the world.
(773) 823-0890 View (773) 823-0890
Photo of Becca Rich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Becca Rich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613
I have significant experience working with children and teens who need support with emotional regulation, school issues, and navigating the effects of grief and loss.
I view therapy as a partnership, one where individuals can feel empowered to be their most genuine self and take ownership of their stories and values. I strive to create a nonjudgmental, warm, and culturally affirming environment where individuals can find a sense of relief from life’s biggest challenges and work towards their own healing. I view every client as a unique individual and will adapt my approach based on what they need. When appropriate and if the client is comfortable with it, I also enjoy adding in some lightness and humor into sessions.
I have significant experience working with children and teens who need support with emotional regulation, school issues, and navigating the effects of grief and loss.
I view therapy as a partnership, one where individuals can feel empowered to be their most genuine self and take ownership of their stories and values. I strive to create a nonjudgmental, warm, and culturally affirming environment where individuals can find a sense of relief from life’s biggest challenges and work towards their own healing. I view every client as a unique individual and will adapt my approach based on what they need. When appropriate and if the client is comfortable with it, I also enjoy adding in some lightness and humor into sessions.
(773) 364-1916 View (773) 364-1916
Photo of Josie Dangler, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Josie Dangler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613
I have clinical experience working with life transitions, adjustment periods, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, grief, and family issues.
Connecting with ourselves is a crucial and often overlooked practice. I understand the courage it requires to take this first step of reaching out. Starting or continuing therapy is a wonderful way to understand and address your mental health, hardships, and the effects of everyday life on your well-being. I hope to offer a compassionate and collaborative space that fosters connection and healing. In therapy, we will work together to set treatment goals and highlight your strengths. I will work with you to navigate and accept thoughts and feelings, which is essential when working toward positive change.
I have clinical experience working with life transitions, adjustment periods, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, grief, and family issues.
Connecting with ourselves is a crucial and often overlooked practice. I understand the courage it requires to take this first step of reaching out. Starting or continuing therapy is a wonderful way to understand and address your mental health, hardships, and the effects of everyday life on your well-being. I hope to offer a compassionate and collaborative space that fosters connection and healing. In therapy, we will work together to set treatment goals and highlight your strengths. I will work with you to navigate and accept thoughts and feelings, which is essential when working toward positive change.
(773) 729-6998 View (773) 729-6998
Photo of Rebecca Gronceski, (LPC), NCC, CTP, ADHD-SP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Gronceski
Licensed Professional Counselor, (LPC), NCC, CTP, ADHD-SP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613
I offer a space where we can explore and find functional approaches to concerns like anxiety, panic, OCD, depression, trauma, life transitions, loss, ADHD, ASD, and interpersonal difficulties. My clients may be facing overwhelm, sadness, worry, intrusive thoughts, difficulty concentrating, or burnout. If you are looking for an engaging therapist to work with you towards self-advocacy, growth, and healing, we will be a great fit.
I offer a space where we can explore and find functional approaches to concerns like anxiety, panic, OCD, depression, trauma, life transitions, loss, ADHD, ASD, and interpersonal difficulties. My clients may be facing overwhelm, sadness, worry, intrusive thoughts, difficulty concentrating, or burnout. If you are looking for an engaging therapist to work with you towards self-advocacy, growth, and healing, we will be a great fit.
(872) 395-4946 View (872) 395-4946
Photo of Jennifer Byrne, LCSW, CADC, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Byrne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613
Healing through our pain is the most profound and self-loving work we can do. Whether it's chronic stress, emotional pain, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, life transitions, grief/ loss, or problematic substance use, there is a pathway to healing. Maybe you have experienced with trauma, childhood abuse, or are struggling to understand problematic patterns in yourself or your life.. Maybe you have wanted to address feeling “stuck” or dissatisfied. Therapy can help you navigate these challenges and be a space of healing, empowerment, and growth.
Healing through our pain is the most profound and self-loving work we can do. Whether it's chronic stress, emotional pain, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, life transitions, grief/ loss, or problematic substance use, there is a pathway to healing. Maybe you have experienced with trauma, childhood abuse, or are struggling to understand problematic patterns in yourself or your life.. Maybe you have wanted to address feeling “stuck” or dissatisfied. Therapy can help you navigate these challenges and be a space of healing, empowerment, and growth.
(847) 813-7567 View (847) 813-7567
Photo of Fradine Kipnis, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Fradine Kipnis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613
Her clinical interests include: depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, marital distress, self-esteem, life coaching, life transitions, suicidal ideation, career counseling, stress, divorce, codependency, grief and women’s issues.
Fradine is truly passionate about helping individuals, couples and families to get to a better place in their lives. She applies the most effective counseling techniques offered through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as others that bring evidenced based results. Realizing that every person, couple or family is unique and requires a custom treatment plan, she will incorporate what is best for your specific situation. Fradine also utilizes techniques from Person Centered Therapy, Parts Therapy, Positive Psychology, Mindfulness, Solution Focused and Emotionally Focused Therapy, when appropriate with her patients.
Her clinical interests include: depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, marital distress, self-esteem, life coaching, life transitions, suicidal ideation, career counseling, stress, divorce, codependency, grief and women’s issues.
Fradine is truly passionate about helping individuals, couples and families to get to a better place in their lives. She applies the most effective counseling techniques offered through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as others that bring evidenced based results. Realizing that every person, couple or family is unique and requires a custom treatment plan, she will incorporate what is best for your specific situation. Fradine also utilizes techniques from Person Centered Therapy, Parts Therapy, Positive Psychology, Mindfulness, Solution Focused and Emotionally Focused Therapy, when appropriate with her patients.
(847) 558-6998 View (847) 558-6998
Photo of Whitney Fricke, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Whitney Fricke
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613
My expertise includes work with individuals who experienced trauma, especially related to childhood, military and relational abuse. Creating a place of understanding for the needs of the military community is near to my heart. I enjoy supporting clients in building healthy relationships (couples, family, peers, etc.). I work with the neurodivergent population, especially late diagnosed autistic adults, to support them in understanding their needs in a manner that honors their experiences. I work with clients from children to adults. Other interests: Boundaries, self-care, life transition, grief, self-identity, military partners, MST
My expertise includes work with individuals who experienced trauma, especially related to childhood, military and relational abuse. Creating a place of understanding for the needs of the military community is near to my heart. I enjoy supporting clients in building healthy relationships (couples, family, peers, etc.). I work with the neurodivergent population, especially late diagnosed autistic adults, to support them in understanding their needs in a manner that honors their experiences. I work with clients from children to adults. Other interests: Boundaries, self-care, life transition, grief, self-identity, military partners, MST
(847) 393-0894 View (847) 393-0894
Photo of Jake Stone, MA, MSW, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jake Stone
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613
I work with many types of clients, but specialize in working with queer and trans people, couples, and other forms of relationships (triads, polycules, open, polygamous, etc.). I deal primarily with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, grief and loss, transitions, stress management, trauma, sex-related issues and traumas, kink and BDSM, behavioral and substance addictions, and chronic pain and chronic illness. I tend to work with adults. I love working with clients that bring their whole self to therapy as I do too. I always encourage feedback to ensure the therapeutic process feels affirming and healing.
I work with many types of clients, but specialize in working with queer and trans people, couples, and other forms of relationships (triads, polycules, open, polygamous, etc.). I deal primarily with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, grief and loss, transitions, stress management, trauma, sex-related issues and traumas, kink and BDSM, behavioral and substance addictions, and chronic pain and chronic illness. I tend to work with adults. I love working with clients that bring their whole self to therapy as I do too. I always encourage feedback to ensure the therapeutic process feels affirming and healing.
(312) 626-3082 View (312) 626-3082
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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.