Grief Therapists in West Lafayette, IN

Photo of Lynn Dotterer, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Lynn Dotterer
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Lafayette, IN 47906
I recognize that everyone needs a little help sometimes. My passion is to come alongside those who are hurting and journey with them toward healing. My goal as a counselor is to connect with clients and help them pursue their goals for wholeness and wellness. In my work with clients, I draw from a range of interventions while valuing the collaborative relationship that is so necessary for healing and growth. My experience has included working with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, life adjustments, grief and loss, relational issues, trauma, ADHD, and more.
I recognize that everyone needs a little help sometimes. My passion is to come alongside those who are hurting and journey with them toward healing. My goal as a counselor is to connect with clients and help them pursue their goals for wholeness and wellness. In my work with clients, I draw from a range of interventions while valuing the collaborative relationship that is so necessary for healing and growth. My experience has included working with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, life adjustments, grief and loss, relational issues, trauma, ADHD, and more.
(765) 737-2420 View (765) 737-2420
Photo of Tyra Moore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tyra Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
West Lafayette, IN 47906
I offer comprehensive approaches to grief, terminal illness, chronic illness, life transitions, adoptions and women's issues.
When you’re struggling to cope with the challenges in your life, starting therapy is a courageous step toward change. I specialize in treating adults and seniors struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, sexual health, chronic pain, trauma, stress, medical conditions, grief, adoption, women's issues, phobias, and OCD. I use Art Therapy, Behavioral Activation Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Existential Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Grief Therapy, Positive Psychology, Rational Emotive Therapy, Schema Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Strength-Based Therapy in sessions.
I offer comprehensive approaches to grief, terminal illness, chronic illness, life transitions, adoptions and women's issues.
When you’re struggling to cope with the challenges in your life, starting therapy is a courageous step toward change. I specialize in treating adults and seniors struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, sexual health, chronic pain, trauma, stress, medical conditions, grief, adoption, women's issues, phobias, and OCD. I use Art Therapy, Behavioral Activation Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Existential Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Grief Therapy, Positive Psychology, Rational Emotive Therapy, Schema Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Strength-Based Therapy in sessions.
(765) 637-4884 View (765) 637-4884
Photo of Megan Stevenson, LCSW, CFSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Stevenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Lafayette, IN 47906  (Online Only)
You don't want to relive those painful or frightening images, the helplessness or fear. The racing heart, shortness of breath, or overwhelming feelings of dread and panic as you approach doctor or dentist appointments. The emotional costs of medical care are often overlooked. For those living with a chronic illness, the journey can be filled with a sense of loss and grief. The life you once knew, filled with the freedom from constant medical interventions, can feel like a distant memory. You want to be able to get needed medical care without feeling like you need to escape.
You don't want to relive those painful or frightening images, the helplessness or fear. The racing heart, shortness of breath, or overwhelming feelings of dread and panic as you approach doctor or dentist appointments. The emotional costs of medical care are often overlooked. For those living with a chronic illness, the journey can be filled with a sense of loss and grief. The life you once knew, filled with the freedom from constant medical interventions, can feel like a distant memory. You want to be able to get needed medical care without feeling like you need to escape.
(812) 615-2381 View (812) 615-2381
Photo of Andrea Aichele, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Aichele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Lafayette, IN 47906  (Online Only)
Specializing in working with kids, perinatal mental health, trauma, and grief- meet Andrea Aichele, a compassionate and dedicated virtual therapist on the Thrive for Life team, currently accepting new clients in Indiana & Florida. With a client-centered and evidence-based approach, Andrea fosters a safe and supportive environment for individuals seeking personal growth and healing. Andrea utilizes her extensive experience to guide clients towards achieving their unique therapeutic goals. As a skilled and empathetic counselor, Andrea is committed to empowering individuals on their journey to emotional well-being.
Specializing in working with kids, perinatal mental health, trauma, and grief- meet Andrea Aichele, a compassionate and dedicated virtual therapist on the Thrive for Life team, currently accepting new clients in Indiana & Florida. With a client-centered and evidence-based approach, Andrea fosters a safe and supportive environment for individuals seeking personal growth and healing. Andrea utilizes her extensive experience to guide clients towards achieving their unique therapeutic goals. As a skilled and empathetic counselor, Andrea is committed to empowering individuals on their journey to emotional well-being.
(463) 232-6537 View (463) 232-6537
Photo of Dan Stribling-Vergara, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dan Stribling-Vergara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Lafayette, IN 47906  (Online Only)
Thank you for considering me for your healing journey. Many clients that I work with are members of the LGBTQ community, both teens and adults. In addition, I am a great fit for adults interested in finding the tools to navigate an increasingly more challenging world. I offer individual services as well as relationship therapy services. My areas of clinical expertise are working with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship concerns. I also have extensive experience supporting folks navigating grief and loss.
Thank you for considering me for your healing journey. Many clients that I work with are members of the LGBTQ community, both teens and adults. In addition, I am a great fit for adults interested in finding the tools to navigate an increasingly more challenging world. I offer individual services as well as relationship therapy services. My areas of clinical expertise are working with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship concerns. I also have extensive experience supporting folks navigating grief and loss.
(765) 275-9895 View (765) 275-9895
Photo of Megan Mahoney, LCSW, LCAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Mahoney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Lafayette, IN 47906
I also have considerable experience working with adjustment disorders and life transitions, grief, substance abuse, and serious and persistent mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
I have been working as a clinical therapist since 1992. I previously worked in mental health hospitals and in community mental health centers. I work with compassion and empathy to help clients address their mental health difficulties, by fostering an atmosphere of harmony allowing for open sharing of feelings and thought’s so they can reach their full potential. As a highly skilled, strength based, and solution oriented licensed clinical social worker, I have developed a track record of successfully working with a diverse population in a one on one or group setting.
I also have considerable experience working with adjustment disorders and life transitions, grief, substance abuse, and serious and persistent mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
I have been working as a clinical therapist since 1992. I previously worked in mental health hospitals and in community mental health centers. I work with compassion and empathy to help clients address their mental health difficulties, by fostering an atmosphere of harmony allowing for open sharing of feelings and thought’s so they can reach their full potential. As a highly skilled, strength based, and solution oriented licensed clinical social worker, I have developed a track record of successfully working with a diverse population in a one on one or group setting.
(765) 590-5755 View (765) 590-5755
Photo of Heather Levy-Wuertz, LMHCA, Counselor
Heather Levy-Wuertz
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
West Lafayette, IN 47906
My passion for over 20 years has been to walk alongside individuals struggling in everyday life. I believe there is hope for every person to learn skills and find encouragement to make their lives a little better. I seek to provide space where individuals can feel safe, comfortable, listened to, cared about. I am experienced in working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, family conflict, emotional regulation, trauma, life transitions, grief, self-esteem, self-identity, anger management, friendships, and school related issues. I have primary experience with children, adolescents, young adults, and women.
My passion for over 20 years has been to walk alongside individuals struggling in everyday life. I believe there is hope for every person to learn skills and find encouragement to make their lives a little better. I seek to provide space where individuals can feel safe, comfortable, listened to, cared about. I am experienced in working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, family conflict, emotional regulation, trauma, life transitions, grief, self-esteem, self-identity, anger management, friendships, and school related issues. I have primary experience with children, adolescents, young adults, and women.
(765) 232-3111 View (765) 232-3111
Photo of Catherine Lawhorne, MA, LMHC
Catherine Lawhorne
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
West Lafayette, IN 47906
I help teens and adults grappling with eating disorders, addiction, trauma, grief and loss, low motivation, mood fluctuation, conflict resolution, stress, and so much more.
At times, focusing on self-care or looking inward can be challenging. The pressures of everyday life often interfere with our better judgment to dedicate time to ourselves. Whether it's work, education, family, or any other numerous distractions that divert our attention from within, it's easy to overlook what our inner voice is trying to convey. My aim is to work together with each individual, recognizing that they are the authority on their own journey, to assist them in adopting effective coping mechanisms, acquiring new abilities, understanding themselves better, and discovering purpose and significance in their lives.
I help teens and adults grappling with eating disorders, addiction, trauma, grief and loss, low motivation, mood fluctuation, conflict resolution, stress, and so much more.
At times, focusing on self-care or looking inward can be challenging. The pressures of everyday life often interfere with our better judgment to dedicate time to ourselves. Whether it's work, education, family, or any other numerous distractions that divert our attention from within, it's easy to overlook what our inner voice is trying to convey. My aim is to work together with each individual, recognizing that they are the authority on their own journey, to assist them in adopting effective coping mechanisms, acquiring new abilities, understanding themselves better, and discovering purpose and significance in their lives.
(765) 246-3419 View (765) 246-3419
Photo of Teri L Cole, LPC, MSCC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teri L Cole
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSCC, NBCC
Verified Verified
West Lafayette, IN 47906  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples, and families who are searching for peace for themselves and their relationships with others. My specialty is working with survivors of trauma, abuse, deprivations, and loss. I work with women's issues and offer a Women's Healing Workshop.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who are searching for peace for themselves and their relationships with others. My specialty is working with survivors of trauma, abuse, deprivations, and loss. I work with women's issues and offer a Women's Healing Workshop.
(602) 714-8982 View (602) 714-8982
Photo of Ryaan J Mansouri, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryaan J Mansouri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Lafayette, IN 47906
Grief and Bereavement.
Ryaan Mansouri was awarded his Masters degree in Social Work from IUPUI of Indianapolis with a concentration in Mental Health and Addiction. He was awarded The certificate of professional practice with addictions. He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Indiana. He is a generalist that has worked extensively with families, groups, individuals, and couples counseling. Utilizing strategies from Dialectical, behavioral, and cognitive behavioral therapy to meet the needs of consumers. Well versed in substance use disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, attachment, family of origin work, and trauma work.
Grief and Bereavement.
Ryaan Mansouri was awarded his Masters degree in Social Work from IUPUI of Indianapolis with a concentration in Mental Health and Addiction. He was awarded The certificate of professional practice with addictions. He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Indiana. He is a generalist that has worked extensively with families, groups, individuals, and couples counseling. Utilizing strategies from Dialectical, behavioral, and cognitive behavioral therapy to meet the needs of consumers. Well versed in substance use disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, attachment, family of origin work, and trauma work.
(765) 207-5745 View (765) 207-5745
Photo of Wendy Galyen - Thrive for Life Counseling, LLC, LCSW, BC-TMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thrive for Life Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
West Lafayette, IN 47907  (Online Only)
Our team specializes in treatment of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, college transitions, couples/relationships, parenting, career planning, life coaching, grief, trauma, etc.
Group Practice - Accepting NEW clients in FL, IL, IN, & NH. Wendy Galyen & the team of psychotherapists at Thrive for Life offer VIDEO, PHONE, & EMAIL-based counseling - great for children, teens, busy professionals, college students, stay-at-home moms, retirees, or other clients who do not have time for traditional in-person sessions but who would benefit from counseling support in their daily lives. Insurance & private pay. Prices range from $100-$175/session. Team: Wendy Galyen, Andrea Aichele, Marilyn Verbiscer, Kelli Jones, Emma Flores & Indya Peoples
Our team specializes in treatment of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, college transitions, couples/relationships, parenting, career planning, life coaching, grief, trauma, etc.
Group Practice - Accepting NEW clients in FL, IL, IN, & NH. Wendy Galyen & the team of psychotherapists at Thrive for Life offer VIDEO, PHONE, & EMAIL-based counseling - great for children, teens, busy professionals, college students, stay-at-home moms, retirees, or other clients who do not have time for traditional in-person sessions but who would benefit from counseling support in their daily lives. Insurance & private pay. Prices range from $100-$175/session. Team: Wendy Galyen, Andrea Aichele, Marilyn Verbiscer, Kelli Jones, Emma Flores & Indya Peoples
(317) 548-0026 View (317) 548-0026
Photo of Courtney Stonehill, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Stonehill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Lafayette, IN 47907
Child therapy is my passion. I utilize a behavioral approach partnering with parents and school personnel to address issues impeding success. Often, children express their feelings and/or internal conflict through their behaviors and are seen as "bad kids." My goal is to identify and build on the child's strengths, explore what is impeding their success and to help channel feelings in a healthy way. I am here to assist your child in decreasing feelings of anxiety, reducing impulsive/hyperactive behaviors, process grief resulting from a divorce or loss of a loved one, heal from trauma, improve self-esteem and teach social skills.
Child therapy is my passion. I utilize a behavioral approach partnering with parents and school personnel to address issues impeding success. Often, children express their feelings and/or internal conflict through their behaviors and are seen as "bad kids." My goal is to identify and build on the child's strengths, explore what is impeding their success and to help channel feelings in a healthy way. I am here to assist your child in decreasing feelings of anxiety, reducing impulsive/hyperactive behaviors, process grief resulting from a divorce or loss of a loved one, heal from trauma, improve self-esteem and teach social skills.
(219) 778-5109 View (219) 778-5109
Photo of Margarita Lora, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Margarita Lora
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Lafayette, IN 47906
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 View (765) 358-7154
Photo of Mercedes Hockemeyer - Mercedes Hockemeyer, LSW, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mercedes Hockemeyer, LSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
West Lafayette, IN 47906
Waitlist for new clients
Over the past four years I have collaborated with my clients to manage their mental health symptoms and life stressors using clinically proven therapeutic methods. I am passionate about my career and have experience with adolescents and adults who struggle with family and relationship problems, anxiety, grief, depression, addiction, trauma, self-esteem and motivation, and regulating difficult emotions. I want to help you determine why you are currently experiencing challenges and develop goals and actions to resolve these issues.
Over the past four years I have collaborated with my clients to manage their mental health symptoms and life stressors using clinically proven therapeutic methods. I am passionate about my career and have experience with adolescents and adults who struggle with family and relationship problems, anxiety, grief, depression, addiction, trauma, self-esteem and motivation, and regulating difficult emotions. I want to help you determine why you are currently experiencing challenges and develop goals and actions to resolve these issues.
(765) 548-3986 View (765) 548-3986
Photo of Lea Scott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lea Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Lafayette, IN 47906
My main expertise is anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, dysregulation of mood/anger, and grief/loss.
Hello, I am so glad you are here! Life can be overwhelming at any stage of life and challenges that we face can make this even more difficult. It can be hard to know where to start to make changes or where to turn to for help. I provide that listening ear that so many of us need. Together we identify goals to help you create the positive mental health that you seek.
My main expertise is anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, dysregulation of mood/anger, and grief/loss.
Hello, I am so glad you are here! Life can be overwhelming at any stage of life and challenges that we face can make this even more difficult. It can be hard to know where to start to make changes or where to turn to for help. I provide that listening ear that so many of us need. Together we identify goals to help you create the positive mental health that you seek.
(765) 375-2452 View (765) 375-2452
Photo of Tiffanie Desmangles, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffanie Desmangles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Lafayette, IN 47906
Are you tired of feeling stressed out and stuck? Do you need someone who truly understands what you’re going through? I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field who enjoys helping others make positive changes. I offer a safe space in which you can freely express your concerns without fear of judgement. I frequently work with adults who are facing anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. It can be overwhelming to be dealing with these issues on your own. But please know that you don't have to do this alone and that you can feel better and start to enjoy your life again.
Are you tired of feeling stressed out and stuck? Do you need someone who truly understands what you’re going through? I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field who enjoys helping others make positive changes. I offer a safe space in which you can freely express your concerns without fear of judgement. I frequently work with adults who are facing anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. It can be overwhelming to be dealing with these issues on your own. But please know that you don't have to do this alone and that you can feel better and start to enjoy your life again.
(765) 565-5314 View (765) 565-5314
Photo of Pei-Yi Lin, PhD, HSPP, Psychologist
Pei-Yi Lin
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Lafayette, IN 47907  (Online Only)
Are you overwhelmed by struggling with anxiety & depression or navigating complex trauma? As a licensed bilingual psychologist in English & Mandarin with 30 years of experience, I specialize in supporting you in overcoming obstacles, finding clarity, & reclaiming a sense of empowerment in your lives. My goal is to create a safe & nonjudgmental space where you can explore your inner world & work towards achieving your personal growth & healing goals. Whether you're struggling with self-esteem, relationship issues, grief, & PTSD, my approach is to meet your specific needs and guide you toward a future filled with hopes and resilience.
Are you overwhelmed by struggling with anxiety & depression or navigating complex trauma? As a licensed bilingual psychologist in English & Mandarin with 30 years of experience, I specialize in supporting you in overcoming obstacles, finding clarity, & reclaiming a sense of empowerment in your lives. My goal is to create a safe & nonjudgmental space where you can explore your inner world & work towards achieving your personal growth & healing goals. Whether you're struggling with self-esteem, relationship issues, grief, & PTSD, my approach is to meet your specific needs and guide you toward a future filled with hopes and resilience.
(317) 666-4808 View (317) 666-4808
Photo of Kayla Carlson - Bright Sprout Therapy, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bright Sprout Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Lafayette, IN 47906
I’ve been in clinical practice for over seven years, and have worked as a social worker since 2010. I work with all ages because I believe we all need a little support from time to time, no matter our phase of life. I strive to create a collaborative, safe space to explore openly and engage genuinely. Individuals may seek therapy with me for many reasons, and no reason is “more valid” than any other. Some of these might be: self-esteem, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, major life changes, parenting, fertility challenges and/or pregnancy loss, postpartum adjustments, relationship challenges, personal development and growth.
I’ve been in clinical practice for over seven years, and have worked as a social worker since 2010. I work with all ages because I believe we all need a little support from time to time, no matter our phase of life. I strive to create a collaborative, safe space to explore openly and engage genuinely. Individuals may seek therapy with me for many reasons, and no reason is “more valid” than any other. Some of these might be: self-esteem, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, major life changes, parenting, fertility challenges and/or pregnancy loss, postpartum adjustments, relationship challenges, personal development and growth.
View
Photo of Bradley Dobson, LMHC, LCAC, Counselor
Bradley Dobson
Counselor, LMHC, LCAC
Verified Verified
West Lafayette, IN 47906  (Online Only)
I view therapy as a journey to reconcile the story that we write for our life with the reality that exists. This inevitable disparity is where most of our tension in life exists. This may include grieving a loss of some kind or learning how to accept what we can actually control in life. My specialty is clinical addiction treatment, but my diverse experience in university counseling, community mental health, and college teaching allow me to offer unique expertise in a variety of areas. No matter how lost you feel, you can find find your true self again in treatment at Dobson Counseling Inc.
I view therapy as a journey to reconcile the story that we write for our life with the reality that exists. This inevitable disparity is where most of our tension in life exists. This may include grieving a loss of some kind or learning how to accept what we can actually control in life. My specialty is clinical addiction treatment, but my diverse experience in university counseling, community mental health, and college teaching allow me to offer unique expertise in a variety of areas. No matter how lost you feel, you can find find your true self again in treatment at Dobson Counseling Inc.
(765) 275-1094 View (765) 275-1094
Photo of Jacque Hanslow, LMHC, Counselor
Jacque Hanslow
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Lafayette, IN 47906
“Shame dies when stories are told in safe places,” writes Ann Voskamp. And shame is woven into so many of our stories - whether we're dealing with depression, trauma, loss, or challenging relationships - past or present. In my work with clients, I seek to provide that safe place where those stories can begin to be told, healing can begin, and shame can die. I honor my clients’ stories and I value the collaborative relationship so necessary for healing and growth to occur, realizing, in the words of Lysa TerKeurst, that “there is this beautiful thing called imperfect progress – slow steps of progress wrapped in grace.”
“Shame dies when stories are told in safe places,” writes Ann Voskamp. And shame is woven into so many of our stories - whether we're dealing with depression, trauma, loss, or challenging relationships - past or present. In my work with clients, I seek to provide that safe place where those stories can begin to be told, healing can begin, and shame can die. I honor my clients’ stories and I value the collaborative relationship so necessary for healing and growth to occur, realizing, in the words of Lysa TerKeurst, that “there is this beautiful thing called imperfect progress – slow steps of progress wrapped in grace.”
(765) 295-7129 View (765) 295-7129
1

See more therapy options for West Lafayette

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.