Grief Therapists in Shelbyville, IN

Photo of Alyssa Botte, PhD, MA, MDiv, LCMHC, LMHC, Counselor
Alyssa Botte
Counselor, PhD, MA, MDiv, LCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Shelbyville, IN 46176  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I am passionate about working with people trying to cope after experiencing trauma, grief, or major life transitions.
Do you feel constantly overwhelmed by the stress of everyday life? Does the pain you see at work, at school, or in your personal relationships threaten to steal your capacity for joy and peace? Have you experienced profound loss or trauma that makes it difficult to believe in any good in the world? Amanda Gorman wrote, "When day comes we step out of the shade, aflame and unafraid, the new dawn blooms as we free it. For there is always light, if only we're brave enough to see it. If only we're brave enough to be it." Can I help you in finding this light within yourself?
As a therapist, I am passionate about working with people trying to cope after experiencing trauma, grief, or major life transitions.
Do you feel constantly overwhelmed by the stress of everyday life? Does the pain you see at work, at school, or in your personal relationships threaten to steal your capacity for joy and peace? Have you experienced profound loss or trauma that makes it difficult to believe in any good in the world? Amanda Gorman wrote, "When day comes we step out of the shade, aflame and unafraid, the new dawn blooms as we free it. For there is always light, if only we're brave enough to see it. If only we're brave enough to be it." Can I help you in finding this light within yourself?
(317) 647-4238 View (317) 647-4238
Photo of Victoria A Harris, MSW, LCSW, LCAC, CTRTC, NCGC-, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria A Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAC, CTRTC, NCGC-
Verified Verified
Shelbyville, IN 46176
Victoria Harris has 20 years experience working with behavior problems, ADHD, Autism, Asperger's, self-harming behaviors, teen addiction and anger issues, co-dependency issues, adult addictions, gambling problems, trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, relationship issues, domestic violence and abuse.
The mission at ER Counseling LLC is dedicated to providing counseling services to empower individuals, couples, and families to improve their overall quality of life. Counseling is available for individuals, couples and families in a comfortable setting. Therapy focuses on the present not the past, on solutions not the problem utilizing a Client Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach. Certified as a Reality Therapy and Choice Theory therapist practical and effective approaches in helping people change are used. Clients learn skills and gain information they can use immediately.
Victoria Harris has 20 years experience working with behavior problems, ADHD, Autism, Asperger's, self-harming behaviors, teen addiction and anger issues, co-dependency issues, adult addictions, gambling problems, trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, relationship issues, domestic violence and abuse.
The mission at ER Counseling LLC is dedicated to providing counseling services to empower individuals, couples, and families to improve their overall quality of life. Counseling is available for individuals, couples and families in a comfortable setting. Therapy focuses on the present not the past, on solutions not the problem utilizing a Client Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach. Certified as a Reality Therapy and Choice Theory therapist practical and effective approaches in helping people change are used. Clients learn skills and gain information they can use immediately.
(812) 252-4589 View (812) 252-4589
Photo of Bonnie Spallinger, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Bonnie Spallinger
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shelbyville, IN 46176
Bonnie is able assist individuals and families with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, parenting issues, ADHD, self-harm, suicidal ideation, grief, substance use, and adjustment disorders.
Bonnie Spallinger is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Indiana. She completed her graduate program from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia in 2015. Bonnie has served in community health for 4.5 years and has experience working with families, women, men, adolescents, and children. Her expertise is working with adolescents and emerging adults struggling with trauma, decision making, life issues, and behavioral issues. She enjoys assisting parents in finding helpful methods to parent their children.
Bonnie is able assist individuals and families with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, parenting issues, ADHD, self-harm, suicidal ideation, grief, substance use, and adjustment disorders.
Bonnie Spallinger is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Indiana. She completed her graduate program from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia in 2015. Bonnie has served in community health for 4.5 years and has experience working with families, women, men, adolescents, and children. Her expertise is working with adolescents and emerging adults struggling with trauma, decision making, life issues, and behavioral issues. She enjoys assisting parents in finding helpful methods to parent their children.
(260) 296-2060 View (260) 296-2060
Photo of Deb Bragg, MS, LMFT, LPN, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deb Bragg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPN
Verified Verified
Shelbyville, IN 46176  (Online Only)
Making the decision to begin therapy is a healthy and courageous act that brings with it the potential for growth and healing. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I will work with you to provide confidential and caring services. I have a passion to help individuals, couples and families overcome challenges, grow in their relationships and find meaning and purpose in life. I feel it is important to "meet each client where they are" in their journey.
Making the decision to begin therapy is a healthy and courageous act that brings with it the potential for growth and healing. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I will work with you to provide confidential and caring services. I have a passion to help individuals, couples and families overcome challenges, grow in their relationships and find meaning and purpose in life. I feel it is important to "meet each client where they are" in their journey.
(910) 537-3143 View (910) 537-3143
Photo of Kimberly Hage, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Hage
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Shelbyville, IN 46176
One of my first goals in therapy is to provide an atmosphere of privacy, safety and confidentiality. Have you ever felt overwhelmed, struggling with images of a traumatic event, never told someone about sexual abuse that still haunts you? Are you trying to get clean from alcohol and or drugs? Plagued by panic attacks or hopelessness? I would love to work with you so you can achieve your goals. I have a blended family of 7 children am a grandmother of 8 beautiful grandchildren. I love camping, hiking, fishing, gardening, puzzles and spending time with my cats.
One of my first goals in therapy is to provide an atmosphere of privacy, safety and confidentiality. Have you ever felt overwhelmed, struggling with images of a traumatic event, never told someone about sexual abuse that still haunts you? Are you trying to get clean from alcohol and or drugs? Plagued by panic attacks or hopelessness? I would love to work with you so you can achieve your goals. I have a blended family of 7 children am a grandmother of 8 beautiful grandchildren. I love camping, hiking, fishing, gardening, puzzles and spending time with my cats.
(317) 973-3023 View (317) 973-3023
Photo of Danelle King - Danelle King, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danelle King, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shelbyville, IN 46176
My ideal client would be someone who would benefit from my inner gifts of nurturing and supportive sensitivity. My most successful clients are those who are open to exploring a variety of treatment models until we find the one that works best. I also offer professional supervision to emerging social workers who are seeking oversight toward clinical hours for their LCSW candidacy!
My ideal client would be someone who would benefit from my inner gifts of nurturing and supportive sensitivity. My most successful clients are those who are open to exploring a variety of treatment models until we find the one that works best. I also offer professional supervision to emerging social workers who are seeking oversight toward clinical hours for their LCSW candidacy!
(765) 345-8282 View (765) 345-8282
Photo of Desiree Audrina Marshall, LSW, MSW
Desiree Audrina Marshall
Social Worker, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shelbyville, IN 46176
Like a treasured friend, I'll be your trusted source of support and a treasured confidant. As your therapist, I'll sift through the "tea" to find the barriers that are keeping you and peace at odds with one another! Together we will work through personal dilemmas, past traumas, and flawed thinking patterns. Challenges can feel like mountains, but you and I (with the help of evidenced based practice methods that are proven),will scale them all!
Like a treasured friend, I'll be your trusted source of support and a treasured confidant. As your therapist, I'll sift through the "tea" to find the barriers that are keeping you and peace at odds with one another! Together we will work through personal dilemmas, past traumas, and flawed thinking patterns. Challenges can feel like mountains, but you and I (with the help of evidenced based practice methods that are proven),will scale them all!
(317) 659-6631 View (317) 659-6631
Photo of Katie Stafford, LCSW, LISW, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Stafford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shelbyville, IN 46176  (Online Only)
Welcome to a world of self-discovery and healing! If you're feeling stuck in life, overwhelmed by anxiety and depression, or struggling to navigate strained family relationships, you've come to the right place. As a compassionate and experienced therapist, I am here to help you find your way forward and create a life filled with purpose and joy. I believe that everyone has the power to create positive change in their lives, and I'm committed to helping you tap into your own inner strength and resilience. Whether you're dealing with past traumas or current challenges, I am here to support you every step of the way.
Welcome to a world of self-discovery and healing! If you're feeling stuck in life, overwhelmed by anxiety and depression, or struggling to navigate strained family relationships, you've come to the right place. As a compassionate and experienced therapist, I am here to help you find your way forward and create a life filled with purpose and joy. I believe that everyone has the power to create positive change in their lives, and I'm committed to helping you tap into your own inner strength and resilience. Whether you're dealing with past traumas or current challenges, I am here to support you every step of the way.
(561) 468-3507 View (561) 468-3507

Online Therapists

Photo of Mary E. Walker, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Mary E. Walker
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Terre Haute, IN 47803
Waitlist for new clients
IN and FL- Have you hit a place where you aren't feeling quite yourself or struggling to get to the root of some of your problems and finding yourself feeling more lost and overwhelmed? Perhaps you are looking to improve your life realizing there is so much more you can do but you don't know where to start? I work with people along the entire spectrum of functioning related to career/life transitions, performance enhancement to tackling issues issues of anxiety, depression, alcoholism/addiction/recovery, PTSD, chronic pain/medical issues, grief, sexual assault, trauma, and even spiritual/generational healing work.
IN and FL- Have you hit a place where you aren't feeling quite yourself or struggling to get to the root of some of your problems and finding yourself feeling more lost and overwhelmed? Perhaps you are looking to improve your life realizing there is so much more you can do but you don't know where to start? I work with people along the entire spectrum of functioning related to career/life transitions, performance enhancement to tackling issues issues of anxiety, depression, alcoholism/addiction/recovery, PTSD, chronic pain/medical issues, grief, sexual assault, trauma, and even spiritual/generational healing work.
(812) 308-3402 View (812) 308-3402
Photo of Quanik Hunter, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Quanik Hunter
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220  (Online Only)
Many of which, have struggled with life transitions, PTSD, postpartum, self esteem issues, grief and loss, abuse, eating disorders, past trauma, and variety of other issues.
Seeking help is the first step in the healing process. I understand the strength it takes to ask for help and attempt to move forward. Life can be challenging at times. During those times it can be difficult to understand what is happening around you. Having someone to help you through those challenges can be pivotal for change.
Many of which, have struggled with life transitions, PTSD, postpartum, self esteem issues, grief and loss, abuse, eating disorders, past trauma, and variety of other issues.
Seeking help is the first step in the healing process. I understand the strength it takes to ask for help and attempt to move forward. Life can be challenging at times. During those times it can be difficult to understand what is happening around you. Having someone to help you through those challenges can be pivotal for change.
(317) 483-8117 View (317) 483-8117
Photo of Jennifer Lee, MA,  LMHC, Counselor
Jennifer Lee
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123
Jennifer is particularly passionate about supporting individuals through midlife transitions, grief, and women’s issues.
Jennifer Lee, LMHC, offers empathetic and personalized therapy services to individuals seeking support and healing in their mental health journey. Jennifer is dedicated to fostering genuine connections with her clients and providing tailored treatment plans to address their unique needs. With a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Ball State University, Jennifer brings a depth of clinical expertise and a compassionate approach to her practice. She specializes in treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, and postpartum depression/anxiety.
Jennifer is particularly passionate about supporting individuals through midlife transitions, grief, and women’s issues.
Jennifer Lee, LMHC, offers empathetic and personalized therapy services to individuals seeking support and healing in their mental health journey. Jennifer is dedicated to fostering genuine connections with her clients and providing tailored treatment plans to address their unique needs. With a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Ball State University, Jennifer brings a depth of clinical expertise and a compassionate approach to her practice. She specializes in treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, and postpartum depression/anxiety.
(463) 255-4755 View (463) 255-4755
Photo of Chantel White, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chantel White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204  (Online Only)
I specialize working with individuals experiencing severe mental illness, addiction, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, grief, suicidal ideation, stress, relationship issues, family conflict, trauma, adjustment disorder, and life changes.
Hello, I am Chantel and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in Indiana, Kentucky, and Michigan. I received my Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Indiana University Bloomington in 2017 and my Masters of Social Work (MSW) specializing in mental health and addictions from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis in 2020. I have been practicing in the social work field for 7 years working in child welfare, home based services, case management, legal system, and those in crisis. I am a trained professional with experience practicing in a wide variety of settings with a diverse group of individuals.
I specialize working with individuals experiencing severe mental illness, addiction, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, grief, suicidal ideation, stress, relationship issues, family conflict, trauma, adjustment disorder, and life changes.
Hello, I am Chantel and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in Indiana, Kentucky, and Michigan. I received my Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Indiana University Bloomington in 2017 and my Masters of Social Work (MSW) specializing in mental health and addictions from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis in 2020. I have been practicing in the social work field for 7 years working in child welfare, home based services, case management, legal system, and those in crisis. I am a trained professional with experience practicing in a wide variety of settings with a diverse group of individuals.
(463) 244-5508 View (463) 244-5508
Photo of Lia Stallworth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lia Stallworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
Lia meets clients where they are on their journey as they encounter crisis, stress, burnout, trauma response, racial trauma, partner relational issues, caregiver/child relational issues, life transitions, depression, anxiety, worry, grief and loss. Lia has been a licensed clinical social worker for over 17 years and has been working in the field of counseling and mental health for 21 years. Lia has a Masters Degree in Social Work from IUPUI. She has advanced training in CBT, ACT, and DBT, and is certified in Crisis Intervention Response and Critical Incident Stress Management.
Lia meets clients where they are on their journey as they encounter crisis, stress, burnout, trauma response, racial trauma, partner relational issues, caregiver/child relational issues, life transitions, depression, anxiety, worry, grief and loss. Lia has been a licensed clinical social worker for over 17 years and has been working in the field of counseling and mental health for 21 years. Lia has a Masters Degree in Social Work from IUPUI. She has advanced training in CBT, ACT, and DBT, and is certified in Crisis Intervention Response and Critical Incident Stress Management.
(463) 444-7786 View (463) 444-7786
Photo of Grace Hanson, LMHC, Counselor
Grace Hanson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenwood, IN 46143
Coming to counseling is no easy feat, and finding the right counselor can seem daunting. Life experience has helped me to understand this firsthand and is what drives my work as a counselor. It is my hope that through the process of building the therapeutic relationship, I can offer clients treatment modalities that are tailored to their needs. I value the counseling relationship and desire to practice with a client-centered approach. I have experience working with families, specifically with children and adolescent clients. My clinical passions include working with those struggling with difficult emotions and complicated grief.
Coming to counseling is no easy feat, and finding the right counselor can seem daunting. Life experience has helped me to understand this firsthand and is what drives my work as a counselor. It is my hope that through the process of building the therapeutic relationship, I can offer clients treatment modalities that are tailored to their needs. I value the counseling relationship and desire to practice with a client-centered approach. I have experience working with families, specifically with children and adolescent clients. My clinical passions include working with those struggling with difficult emotions and complicated grief.
(317) 961-7074 View (317) 961-7074
Photo of Lotus Of Life - Lotus of Life Counseling, LLC, MSW, LCSW, LMHC, LMHCA, Interns, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lotus of Life Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMHC, LMHCA, Interns
Verified Verified
Westfield, IN 46074
Lotus of Life is a growing group private practice serving individuals, couples and families. Our experience and areas of focus include: chronic health conditions, Grief/ Loss, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, School/ Academic/ Career issues, Social/ Emotional challenges, Disordered Eating, LGBTQ+, Couples, Perinatal/ Infant loss and more. Therapy is provided virtually (Statewide) and in person in Westfield, Indiana by a Pre-licensed or fully licensed Therapist assigned based on specific needs and availability. Please reach out to see which provider would best fit your needs!
Lotus of Life is a growing group private practice serving individuals, couples and families. Our experience and areas of focus include: chronic health conditions, Grief/ Loss, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, School/ Academic/ Career issues, Social/ Emotional challenges, Disordered Eating, LGBTQ+, Couples, Perinatal/ Infant loss and more. Therapy is provided virtually (Statewide) and in person in Westfield, Indiana by a Pre-licensed or fully licensed Therapist assigned based on specific needs and availability. Please reach out to see which provider would best fit your needs!
(317) 854-5804 View (317) 854-5804
Photo of Deb Havill, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deb Havill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markleville, IN 46056  (Online Only)
My role is to help you figure out what you want, what gets in the way, and how to get there. Lack of focus in life often is at the heart of peoples' problems. If you have concerns with depression, anxiety, fear, confusion, relationship, identity, spirituality, career options, personality, sadness, hopelessness, a sense of aimlessness, loss, even anger and irritability--all of these concerns can be helped by learning how to direct yourself.
My role is to help you figure out what you want, what gets in the way, and how to get there. Lack of focus in life often is at the heart of peoples' problems. If you have concerns with depression, anxiety, fear, confusion, relationship, identity, spirituality, career options, personality, sadness, hopelessness, a sense of aimlessness, loss, even anger and irritability--all of these concerns can be helped by learning how to direct yourself.
(317) 480-1664 View (317) 480-1664
Photo of Ellie Benz, MA, LMHCA, NPT-C, Counselor
Ellie Benz
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, NPT-C
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47403
Waitlist for new clients
My experience is primarily with adults healing from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma/abuse/neglect, substance use, shame/guilt, and grief/loss.
Therapy is healing, growth, and recovery. I am passionate about providing you with a safe environment to explore your wants and needs, and find the best version of yourself. I believe in empowerment and resilience. Together, we will learn and practice coping skills of mindfulness, being present, and grounding, to help you manage life. With a non-judgmental, supportive, curious, and challenging approach, we will work on facing your inner critic to become your own best friend while identifying personal identity traits. I encourage building agency to take accountability in personal healing, growth, and recovery.
My experience is primarily with adults healing from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma/abuse/neglect, substance use, shame/guilt, and grief/loss.
Therapy is healing, growth, and recovery. I am passionate about providing you with a safe environment to explore your wants and needs, and find the best version of yourself. I believe in empowerment and resilience. Together, we will learn and practice coping skills of mindfulness, being present, and grounding, to help you manage life. With a non-judgmental, supportive, curious, and challenging approach, we will work on facing your inner critic to become your own best friend while identifying personal identity traits. I encourage building agency to take accountability in personal healing, growth, and recovery.
(812) 220-3399 View (812) 220-3399
Photo of Jemardrais M Clark, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Jemardrais M Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Noblesville, IN 46060
Today is an opportunity to choose healing over the pain of the past. If you are ready to address any negative cycles in your life. Let's talk. The truth is, we will experience loss, setbacks, disappointments and deep hurts at some point in our lives. Together we can develop self-awareness, self-regulation skills, proper response to difficulties that arise. You are stronger than you think. My goal is promoting growth, change, creativity, enhance self-esteem, and encourage honest emotion.
Today is an opportunity to choose healing over the pain of the past. If you are ready to address any negative cycles in your life. Let's talk. The truth is, we will experience loss, setbacks, disappointments and deep hurts at some point in our lives. Together we can develop self-awareness, self-regulation skills, proper response to difficulties that arise. You are stronger than you think. My goal is promoting growth, change, creativity, enhance self-esteem, and encourage honest emotion.
(463) 263-4775 View (463) 263-4775
Photo of Margarita Lora, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Margarita Lora
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lafayette, IN 47905
I am a Licensed Mental Counselor with a Masters degree from Purdue University and 12 years of experience working with children, adults and families. I was born and raised in Colombia, South America. I am fluent in both, Spanish and English and able to provide therapy in either language. My areas of expertise include: children who present mild through severe emotional and behavioral problems due to a history of trauma and/or difficult life events (i.e., death in the family, illness, divorce, other losses and family changes); working with parents struggling with parenting issues, adjustment to life events and parent/child relationship difficulties; and working with adults in a variety of problems including, adjustment disorders, post traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, grieving, and post-partum depression.
I am a Licensed Mental Counselor with a Masters degree from Purdue University and 12 years of experience working with children, adults and families. I was born and raised in Colombia, South America. I am fluent in both, Spanish and English and able to provide therapy in either language. My areas of expertise include: children who present mild through severe emotional and behavioral problems due to a history of trauma and/or difficult life events (i.e., death in the family, illness, divorce, other losses and family changes); working with parents struggling with parenting issues, adjustment to life events and parent/child relationship difficulties; and working with adults in a variety of problems including, adjustment disorders, post traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, grieving, and post-partum depression.
(765) 358-7154 x84 View (765) 358-7154 x84
Photo of Lou Ann Hamilton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lou Ann Hamilton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monticello, IN 47960  (Online Only)
I have a long history of working with grief and loss issues.
I am a generalist social worker who treats clients for a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and especially grief, bereavement and loss. I have a great deal of experience with LGBTQ clients. Having worked at Purdue for 14 years I saw many young adults through the coming out process. I have also worked with clients from many diverse cultures around the world. I am client centered, and believe people can change their lives through talk therapy, emphasizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic therapy. I enjoy my work assisting adolescents and adults to make life changes.
I have a long history of working with grief and loss issues.
I am a generalist social worker who treats clients for a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and especially grief, bereavement and loss. I have a great deal of experience with LGBTQ clients. Having worked at Purdue for 14 years I saw many young adults through the coming out process. I have also worked with clients from many diverse cultures around the world. I am client centered, and believe people can change their lives through talk therapy, emphasizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic therapy. I enjoy my work assisting adolescents and adults to make life changes.
(765) 587-3254 View (765) 587-3254

See more therapy options for Shelbyville

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.