Grief Therapists in Wheaton, IL

Photo of Karen Lynn Kee, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Karen Lynn Kee
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
Many of us have or will experience emotional difficulties at some point in our lives. Sometimes it is not easy to overcome these roadblocks and we end up stuck in our emotional development. There are times in our lives when we need help to work through something, to regain our focus or to feel connected. I work with individuals, couples and families struggling with anxiety, trauma, grief & loss, and depression. I believe healing is possible.
Many of us have or will experience emotional difficulties at some point in our lives. Sometimes it is not easy to overcome these roadblocks and we end up stuck in our emotional development. There are times in our lives when we need help to work through something, to regain our focus or to feel connected. I work with individuals, couples and families struggling with anxiety, trauma, grief & loss, and depression. I believe healing is possible.
(630) 672-0625 View (630) 672-0625
Photo of Suzie Cuevas, LCPC, Counselor
Suzie Cuevas
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
Whether you are seeking guidance through anxiety, depression, grief/ bereavement, career transitions, mood disorder, anger management, bipolar disorder, or other mental health challenges, my goal is to provide a warm and friendly environment where you can explore, heal, and embrace positive change.
As a dedicated psychotherapist with 21 years experience, I hold a firm belief that every client deserves to be seen as an individual, beyond the confines of their mental health condition. My approach to therapy is rooted in a commitment to holistic healing, tailored to the unique needs of each person I work with. Drawing upon a blend of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), I strive to create a customized experience that fosters personal growth and well-being.
Whether you are seeking guidance through anxiety, depression, grief/ bereavement, career transitions, mood disorder, anger management, bipolar disorder, or other mental health challenges, my goal is to provide a warm and friendly environment where you can explore, heal, and embrace positive change.
As a dedicated psychotherapist with 21 years experience, I hold a firm belief that every client deserves to be seen as an individual, beyond the confines of their mental health condition. My approach to therapy is rooted in a commitment to holistic healing, tailored to the unique needs of each person I work with. Drawing upon a blend of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), I strive to create a customized experience that fosters personal growth and well-being.
(630) 937-3029 View (630) 937-3029
Photo of Alison Goshgarian, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alison Goshgarian
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
Maybe you’re needing to try and wade into the depths of self-work, the meaningful questions of existence, suffering or loss, who you are, or finding your place in this beautiful, painful world.
I believe therapy is a space where we explore the pain and the joy of human existence in a deep and meaningful way. My approach tends to be direct but I intentionally leave space for you to feel whatever comes up for you. My therapy room is a space where you and I get to delve into the realness of who you are without shame or judgment. It can be challenging to look at our internal world and acknowledge the reality of our lived experiences, but as someone who has done (and continues to do) that work, I can say this confidently: it is truly life changing to face yourself with courage.
Maybe you’re needing to try and wade into the depths of self-work, the meaningful questions of existence, suffering or loss, who you are, or finding your place in this beautiful, painful world.
I believe therapy is a space where we explore the pain and the joy of human existence in a deep and meaningful way. My approach tends to be direct but I intentionally leave space for you to feel whatever comes up for you. My therapy room is a space where you and I get to delve into the realness of who you are without shame or judgment. It can be challenging to look at our internal world and acknowledge the reality of our lived experiences, but as someone who has done (and continues to do) that work, I can say this confidently: it is truly life changing to face yourself with courage.
(630) 446-6297 View (630) 446-6297
Photo of Amira Mina, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amira Mina
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
A Warm Welcome! In life, we face relationship difficulties, seasons of adjustments, anxiety, and stress. We can struggle with the devastation of trauma, grief and loss, sexual problems, low self-esteem, depression, and addictions which impact every aspect of our lives. I believe that you don't have to be alone in your journey and that counseling can move individuals toward hope and healing while promoting growth, insights, tools, and purpose. I view counseling as a privilege, an honor, and a partnership between the individual and the therapist.
A Warm Welcome! In life, we face relationship difficulties, seasons of adjustments, anxiety, and stress. We can struggle with the devastation of trauma, grief and loss, sexual problems, low self-esteem, depression, and addictions which impact every aspect of our lives. I believe that you don't have to be alone in your journey and that counseling can move individuals toward hope and healing while promoting growth, insights, tools, and purpose. I view counseling as a privilege, an honor, and a partnership between the individual and the therapist.
(630) 473-9344 View (630) 473-9344
Photo of Angie Young, LCSW, EMDR, RYT200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angie Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, RYT200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
My experience working with individuals covers areas of disruption from complex trauma, sexual abuse, religious trauma, grief, attachment wounds, abandonment and shame.
I believe healing is possible through an invitation to connect with your body, emotions, and thoughts. To build understanding about how your experiences, relationships, and culture have impacted your life. I seek to be a companion in the process of sharing your personal story as you sift through the well of your entire lived experience to discover your authentic voice. Together, we will use body based interventions, emotionally focused work, and brain-based approaches like EMDR to reclaim the chapters of your life where difficult experiences stole your sense of who you are, and nurture growth, healing, and overcome loneliness.
My experience working with individuals covers areas of disruption from complex trauma, sexual abuse, religious trauma, grief, attachment wounds, abandonment and shame.
I believe healing is possible through an invitation to connect with your body, emotions, and thoughts. To build understanding about how your experiences, relationships, and culture have impacted your life. I seek to be a companion in the process of sharing your personal story as you sift through the well of your entire lived experience to discover your authentic voice. Together, we will use body based interventions, emotionally focused work, and brain-based approaches like EMDR to reclaim the chapters of your life where difficult experiences stole your sense of who you are, and nurture growth, healing, and overcome loneliness.
(630) 524-4362 View (630) 524-4362
Photo of Katie L Cockrell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie L Cockrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
My primary areas of specialty include: grief, depression, anxiety, self-harm, substance/drug abuse, difficult life stressors/circumstances, relationship issues, and family issues.
Life can be incredibly challenging and scary at times. Sometimes it can feel as if you are walking through it alone, unsure of which direction to head. Therapy is a great place to find direction. In therapy, I believe in the value of a supportive, trusting relationship between myself and my clients. My goal is to make sure my clients feel safe, comfortable, and understood. I feel that therapy is a partnership between therapist and client, working together while navigating through difficulties and struggles. I take pride in developing a strong relationship with my clients so that they feel confident in their treatment journey.
My primary areas of specialty include: grief, depression, anxiety, self-harm, substance/drug abuse, difficult life stressors/circumstances, relationship issues, and family issues.
Life can be incredibly challenging and scary at times. Sometimes it can feel as if you are walking through it alone, unsure of which direction to head. Therapy is a great place to find direction. In therapy, I believe in the value of a supportive, trusting relationship between myself and my clients. My goal is to make sure my clients feel safe, comfortable, and understood. I feel that therapy is a partnership between therapist and client, working together while navigating through difficulties and struggles. I take pride in developing a strong relationship with my clients so that they feel confident in their treatment journey.
(630) 653-1717 View (630) 653-1717
Photo of Tina Villis, MA, LCPC, PMH-C, Counselor
Tina Villis
Counselor, MA, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over fifteen years of experience in the mental health field. It is an honor to meet individuals from all walks of life, listen to their stories, and be a source of support for them during their most painful times. I work with individuals and couples who struggle with depression, anxiety, communication conflict, divorce, grief and loss, workplace stress, parenting, life transitions, infertility and adoption concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over fifteen years of experience in the mental health field. It is an honor to meet individuals from all walks of life, listen to their stories, and be a source of support for them during their most painful times. I work with individuals and couples who struggle with depression, anxiety, communication conflict, divorce, grief and loss, workplace stress, parenting, life transitions, infertility and adoption concerns.
(630) 526-7462 View (630) 526-7462
Photo of Nathan Chase, LCPC-IL, LPCMHSP, CADC
Nathan Chase
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC-IL, LPCMHSP, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Specializes in cross-cultural adjustment issues, trauma/PTSD, physical & sexual abuse, healing from racial discrimination, chemical dependency and sexual addictions, young adults, first responders, helping professions, compassion fatigue, at-risk youth, attachment disorders, depression/bi-polar, grief & loss, life transitions, and spiritual development.
Nathan has a pursued a career of inviting others into safety, healing, and growth through counseling, chaplaincy, and mentoring. He is licensed in both Illinois (Telehealth) and Tennessee (in-person and telehealth). Experienced in working with multiple varieties of trauma, addiction, grief, and life transitions.
Specializes in cross-cultural adjustment issues, trauma/PTSD, physical & sexual abuse, healing from racial discrimination, chemical dependency and sexual addictions, young adults, first responders, helping professions, compassion fatigue, at-risk youth, attachment disorders, depression/bi-polar, grief & loss, life transitions, and spiritual development.
Nathan has a pursued a career of inviting others into safety, healing, and growth through counseling, chaplaincy, and mentoring. He is licensed in both Illinois (Telehealth) and Tennessee (in-person and telehealth). Experienced in working with multiple varieties of trauma, addiction, grief, and life transitions.
(423) 556-4742 View (423) 556-4742
Photo of Laura J Wolfe, MSEd, LCPC, Counselor
Laura J Wolfe
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
An Invitation to come as you are...Sometimes it's easy to forget or move away from who you are and your story. There are many life circumstances that may impact and influence how you feel about and perceive yourself as well as others. Shame, guilt, fear, anxiety, anger, disappointment, sadness, illness, grief, loss and broken relationships are a part of many peoples' life stories yet sometimes it can be difficult to accept those parts of one's journey. I invite you to come with all the pieces of who you are and share your story.
An Invitation to come as you are...Sometimes it's easy to forget or move away from who you are and your story. There are many life circumstances that may impact and influence how you feel about and perceive yourself as well as others. Shame, guilt, fear, anxiety, anger, disappointment, sadness, illness, grief, loss and broken relationships are a part of many peoples' life stories yet sometimes it can be difficult to accept those parts of one's journey. I invite you to come with all the pieces of who you are and share your story.
(708) 462-4967 View (708) 462-4967
Photo of Donna Loza - Donna Loza, Midwest Center for Hope & Healing, Ltd, LCPC, CADC, CODP I, Counselor
Donna Loza, Midwest Center for Hope & Healing, Ltd
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CODP I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Donna aligns closely with Adlerian, Cognitive behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral and play therapy. Follow me on LinkedIn to see my latest articles. Adlerian theory has been shown in research for treating multiple mental health conditions: anxiety, depression, grief, postpartum, menopause, OCD, ADHD, eating disorders, personality disorders, schizophrenic, and substance abuse disorders. Adlerian theory suggests that people are driven by a need to feel that they matter, they have value, and they belong. How do you want to grow as a person, what are your dreams and goals?
Donna aligns closely with Adlerian, Cognitive behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral and play therapy. Follow me on LinkedIn to see my latest articles. Adlerian theory has been shown in research for treating multiple mental health conditions: anxiety, depression, grief, postpartum, menopause, OCD, ADHD, eating disorders, personality disorders, schizophrenic, and substance abuse disorders. Adlerian theory suggests that people are driven by a need to feel that they matter, they have value, and they belong. How do you want to grow as a person, what are your dreams and goals?
(630) 748-7709 View (630) 748-7709
Photo of Kay La Jeunesse, MS, LCPC
Kay La Jeunesse
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
My most recent work as a Bereavement Counselor in a Hospice setting has allowed me to put into practice my many years of loss and grief training.
I offer a calming and gentle approach to clients that enhances their comfort levels and allows for open discussion of problem areas. Together, we investigate the factors that cause and contribute to their issues. Together, we investigate coping skills and factors that will diminish symptoms and work toward resolution of these life issues. In the words of one client: "If what I have to say doesn't upset you, then maybe it isn't as bad as I feared." Mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, relationship conflicts as well as loss and grief issues are among my treatment specialties.
My most recent work as a Bereavement Counselor in a Hospice setting has allowed me to put into practice my many years of loss and grief training.
I offer a calming and gentle approach to clients that enhances their comfort levels and allows for open discussion of problem areas. Together, we investigate the factors that cause and contribute to their issues. Together, we investigate coping skills and factors that will diminish symptoms and work toward resolution of these life issues. In the words of one client: "If what I have to say doesn't upset you, then maybe it isn't as bad as I feared." Mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, relationship conflicts as well as loss and grief issues are among my treatment specialties.
(630) 473-3970 View (630) 473-3970
Photo of Saba Aqel, LCPC, Counselor
Saba Aqel
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to helping clients expand self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and process traumas and psychological wounds. With extensive experience in addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relational conflicts, burnout, and challenging life transitions, I offer compassionate and tailored support. I take great pride in working with BIPOC, immigrants, and first- and second-generation individuals navigating acculturation, racial identity, and cultural challenges, as well as young professionals and college students.
I am dedicated to helping clients expand self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and process traumas and psychological wounds. With extensive experience in addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relational conflicts, burnout, and challenging life transitions, I offer compassionate and tailored support. I take great pride in working with BIPOC, immigrants, and first- and second-generation individuals navigating acculturation, racial identity, and cultural challenges, as well as young professionals and college students.
(630) 864-6238 View (630) 864-6238
Photo of Ronna Buckun, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ronna Buckun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Ronna Buckun is a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience working with aging adults, adults, and their families. Her approach to therapy balances her genuineness, humor, and compassion with the focus on problem-solving and client growth. She possesses a direct, yet comforting style. Ronna specializes in geriatric well-being, relational and family issues. She has a great deal of experience working with grief and loss, aging issues, adjustment disorders, and health and wellness. Her methods of practice include Cognitive Behavioral, Relaxation/Mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Ronna Buckun is a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience working with aging adults, adults, and their families. Her approach to therapy balances her genuineness, humor, and compassion with the focus on problem-solving and client growth. She possesses a direct, yet comforting style. Ronna specializes in geriatric well-being, relational and family issues. She has a great deal of experience working with grief and loss, aging issues, adjustment disorders, and health and wellness. Her methods of practice include Cognitive Behavioral, Relaxation/Mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(331) 256-2756 View (331) 256-2756
Photo of Christopher Poulakos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Poulakos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60189
Hello, glad you found me! I work with adolescents and adults ages 12+ to navigate various life difficulties. I enjoy working with those who struggle in managing grief, anxiety, depression, life-transitions, low self-esteem, and substance use/abuse
Hello, glad you found me! I work with adolescents and adults ages 12+ to navigate various life difficulties. I enjoy working with those who struggle in managing grief, anxiety, depression, life-transitions, low self-esteem, and substance use/abuse
(630) 866-8754 View (630) 866-8754
Photo of Jean M Hannigan, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jean M Hannigan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
My areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse recovery, grief, PTSD, gender identity and LGBTQ issues I am certified in hypnotherapy and have a particular passion for working with the LGBTQ community.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I intimately understand that life can be stressful and that life transitions can be overwhelming and confusing. I understand that the upheaval of life often leads to feelings of fear, helplessness, and hopelessness and can be experienced as anxiety, depression, or simply a loss of self. I understand that you have questions about therapy….
My areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse recovery, grief, PTSD, gender identity and LGBTQ issues I am certified in hypnotherapy and have a particular passion for working with the LGBTQ community.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I intimately understand that life can be stressful and that life transitions can be overwhelming and confusing. I understand that the upheaval of life often leads to feelings of fear, helplessness, and hopelessness and can be experienced as anxiety, depression, or simply a loss of self. I understand that you have questions about therapy….
(331) 771-7057 View (331) 771-7057
Photo of Becky Janssens, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Becky Janssens
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
My specialties include anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, loss, & trauma.
It takes courage to begin, and continue on your mental health journey. I can offer support as you step closer to where you'd like to be. I am clinically trained as both an art therapist and mental health counselor, which can help access places difficult to reach with words alone. My approach invites curiosity through a trauma informed & strengths-based lens to increase your understanding of self & relationships. If you are feeling stuck, we can find what helps you move through this and towards greater satisfaction in your daily life.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, loss, & trauma.
It takes courage to begin, and continue on your mental health journey. I can offer support as you step closer to where you'd like to be. I am clinically trained as both an art therapist and mental health counselor, which can help access places difficult to reach with words alone. My approach invites curiosity through a trauma informed & strengths-based lens to increase your understanding of self & relationships. If you are feeling stuck, we can find what helps you move through this and towards greater satisfaction in your daily life.
(630) 534-9518 View (630) 534-9518
Photo of Erin Troff, PhD, LCPC, Counselor
Erin Troff
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
I work with adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and address issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life transitions (such as graduation, relocation, pregnancy, career changes, breakups), trauma, grief and loss, stress management, divorce, and low self-esteem.
Are you struggling with mood or relational issues that leave you feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone. Many people grapple with these issues as they navigate everyday life, whether managing the stress of work/life balance or coping with relationships that leave them drained. With over 17 years of experience, I have successfully helped adults overcome these issues so they can live a happy, well-adjusted life.
I work with adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and address issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life transitions (such as graduation, relocation, pregnancy, career changes, breakups), trauma, grief and loss, stress management, divorce, and low self-esteem.
Are you struggling with mood or relational issues that leave you feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone. Many people grapple with these issues as they navigate everyday life, whether managing the stress of work/life balance or coping with relationships that leave them drained. With over 17 years of experience, I have successfully helped adults overcome these issues so they can live a happy, well-adjusted life.
(630) 280-3776 View (630) 280-3776
Photo of David S Panahi - Panahi Counseling, P.C., MA, NCC, LCPC, EMDR, CADC, Counselor
Panahi Counseling, P.C.
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC, EMDR, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
We have a wide range of specialties including anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, marriage counseling, eating disorders, substance abuse, co-dependence, grief and loss, life transitions, abuse, trauma.
We understand how difficult it can be to seek help for mental health issues. That is why our team at Panahi Counseling is committed to meeting you where you are and encouraging you. We never use shame as a motivator because we believe in providing a safe, nonjudgmental environment that supports healing. Each of our therapists has their own specialties and interests. Our shared commitment to walking alongside our clients on their path to healing is what brings us together.
We have a wide range of specialties including anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, marriage counseling, eating disorders, substance abuse, co-dependence, grief and loss, life transitions, abuse, trauma.
We understand how difficult it can be to seek help for mental health issues. That is why our team at Panahi Counseling is committed to meeting you where you are and encouraging you. We never use shame as a motivator because we believe in providing a safe, nonjudgmental environment that supports healing. Each of our therapists has their own specialties and interests. Our shared commitment to walking alongside our clients on their path to healing is what brings us together.
(630) 686-7977 View (630) 686-7977
Photo of Renee Barney, MA, LCPC
Renee Barney
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
Renee collaborates with you for processing and support of anxiety reduction, and grief and trauma as needed.
Renee is passionate about therapy; yet, she has a sensitive presence in the process. Renee works with teens, young adults and adults to create healthy change, relieve stress, and give support for relationship issues. She works with anxiety issues, while many of the clients she works with have a background of Complex Trauma. She gently and carefully approaches them to create more change for more ease, care and understanding in your life. As well, Renee does strength building therapy for identity development including 'the self', as well as, 'sexual and gender identity'.
Renee collaborates with you for processing and support of anxiety reduction, and grief and trauma as needed.
Renee is passionate about therapy; yet, she has a sensitive presence in the process. Renee works with teens, young adults and adults to create healthy change, relieve stress, and give support for relationship issues. She works with anxiety issues, while many of the clients she works with have a background of Complex Trauma. She gently and carefully approaches them to create more change for more ease, care and understanding in your life. As well, Renee does strength building therapy for identity development including 'the self', as well as, 'sexual and gender identity'.
(224) 210-1385 View (224) 210-1385
Photo of Vanessa Houdek, PsyD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Vanessa Houdek
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187  (Online Only)
I specialize as a pregnancy and postpartum mental health expert (fertility difficulties, pregnancy loss/infant loss, traumatic birth, coping with a NICU stay, anxiety/depression during pregnancy/postpartum period, adjustment to parenthood) but welcome clients outside of this population.
I specialize in "Moms," working mostly with women throughout different phases of motherhood including those trying to conceive, soon-to-be, new and seasoned mothers. Protecting and supporting mental health throughout each phase may look different for each client; however, my approach is always centered on creating a warm, supportive and relatable space. I focus on connection and find space for humor. I normalize so much of what women experience along this journey in becoming "Mom" but also provide real skills to use in daily life.
I specialize as a pregnancy and postpartum mental health expert (fertility difficulties, pregnancy loss/infant loss, traumatic birth, coping with a NICU stay, anxiety/depression during pregnancy/postpartum period, adjustment to parenthood) but welcome clients outside of this population.
I specialize in "Moms," working mostly with women throughout different phases of motherhood including those trying to conceive, soon-to-be, new and seasoned mothers. Protecting and supporting mental health throughout each phase may look different for each client; however, my approach is always centered on creating a warm, supportive and relatable space. I focus on connection and find space for humor. I normalize so much of what women experience along this journey in becoming "Mom" but also provide real skills to use in daily life.
(630) 216-8780 View (630) 216-8780
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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.