Grief Therapists in Leawood, KS

Photo of Grief Therapist Shannon Kirby, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Grief Therapist Shannon Kirby
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66211
Starting individual counseling or couples counseling can be intimidating. I know it’s uncomfortable to open yourself up to someone and really take a look at the painful stories you carry around. Finding yourself can be a daunting task. What’s more uncomfortable is carrying around pain and other stressors. I am well versed in combating these powerful narratives and I am not afraid of authenticity. I believe that most stories are laced with grief such as divorce, loss or just simply losing yourself. Having experienced layers of grief in my own life, I am ready and willing to join you as you explore by doing the work in therapy.
Starting individual counseling or couples counseling can be intimidating. I know it’s uncomfortable to open yourself up to someone and really take a look at the painful stories you carry around. Finding yourself can be a daunting task. What’s more uncomfortable is carrying around pain and other stressors. I am well versed in combating these powerful narratives and I am not afraid of authenticity. I believe that most stories are laced with grief such as divorce, loss or just simply losing yourself. Having experienced layers of grief in my own life, I am ready and willing to join you as you explore by doing the work in therapy.
(913) 380-0997 View (913) 380-0997
Photo of Sydney S. Spears, PhD, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sydney S. Spears
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66211  (Online Only)
I work with adults in their 30s-70s who is overwhelmed with chronic stress, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, grief/ loss and/or life disrupting childhood trauma/post-traumatic stress. I also work with individuals and couples who want to resolve problems within their relationships, life transitions, divorce, including cultural identity issues. I work well with men who are in midlife (30s-70s) struggling with anxiety, aging and/or depression. I also work with those who are going through many life changes and identity conflicts. These clients often feel lost, stuck and alone. Their anxiety, negativity and low mood is out of control.
I work with adults in their 30s-70s who is overwhelmed with chronic stress, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, grief/ loss and/or life disrupting childhood trauma/post-traumatic stress. I also work with individuals and couples who want to resolve problems within their relationships, life transitions, divorce, including cultural identity issues. I work well with men who are in midlife (30s-70s) struggling with anxiety, aging and/or depression. I also work with those who are going through many life changes and identity conflicts. These clients often feel lost, stuck and alone. Their anxiety, negativity and low mood is out of control.
(913) 305-4391 View (913) 305-4391
Photo of Eileen Connell, MS, RN, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eileen Connell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, RN, LPC
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66206
I have done extensive work with women during the reproductive years, for issues related to infertility, pregnancy, postpartum or perinatal loss.
My clients generally reach out for help when struggling with an adjustment, a loss, or a relationship that has problems. I most often see women, during pregnancy or postpartum, or at other times of crisis or difficulty during their lives. The relationship that I form with my clients is the most important aspect of the therapy, as it is the trust and emotional safety that is the foundation for the work we will do. It is within that therapeutic relationship that a deeper understanding of oneself and change can occur.
I have done extensive work with women during the reproductive years, for issues related to infertility, pregnancy, postpartum or perinatal loss.
My clients generally reach out for help when struggling with an adjustment, a loss, or a relationship that has problems. I most often see women, during pregnancy or postpartum, or at other times of crisis or difficulty during their lives. The relationship that I form with my clients is the most important aspect of the therapy, as it is the trust and emotional safety that is the foundation for the work we will do. It is within that therapeutic relationship that a deeper understanding of oneself and change can occur.
(816) 945-4890 View (816) 945-4890
Photo of Dr. Shari Grady, PhD, LCPC, LPC, NCC, CISM, Counselor
Dr. Shari Grady
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LPC, NCC, CISM
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66209
I specialize in treating stress/burnout, grief, anxiety, and depression, although I also enjoy working with relationship and blended family issues.
Most of my patients describe sessions with me as "effective." Yes, I'll sit and listen, empathize, and you'll know I genuinely care about you and your life. But you'll also probably hear things from me that others may not be willing to tell you. Why? Because I want to see you live the life you are capable of and unlocking many of those interactions helps with that process! I generally use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. They are both great types of therapy that focus on behavioral strategies for change after examination of your thinking.
I specialize in treating stress/burnout, grief, anxiety, and depression, although I also enjoy working with relationship and blended family issues.
Most of my patients describe sessions with me as "effective." Yes, I'll sit and listen, empathize, and you'll know I genuinely care about you and your life. But you'll also probably hear things from me that others may not be willing to tell you. Why? Because I want to see you live the life you are capable of and unlocking many of those interactions helps with that process! I generally use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. They are both great types of therapy that focus on behavioral strategies for change after examination of your thinking.
(913) 386-6785 View (913) 386-6785
Photo of Marty Kraus, LCPC, LPC, Counselor
Marty Kraus
Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leawood, KS 66206
I provide therapeutic guidance and support for a variety of issues including, but not limited to: Anxiety disorders, Depression, Recovery, Grief, Trauma, Life transitions, Relationships, Stress, and Spirituality.
Most people go through periods when they need extra support and guidance. I care about you and helping you to move beyond the difficulties you are currently facing. I provide therapy in a safe, unbiased, and nonjudgmental environment. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Kansas. I have a MS in Counseling Psychology, a graduate certification in Child and Adolescent Psychology from Avila University, and a BS in Developmental Psychology from the University of Kansas. I work with all age groups and specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment disorders, and Trauma.
I provide therapeutic guidance and support for a variety of issues including, but not limited to: Anxiety disorders, Depression, Recovery, Grief, Trauma, Life transitions, Relationships, Stress, and Spirituality.
Most people go through periods when they need extra support and guidance. I care about you and helping you to move beyond the difficulties you are currently facing. I provide therapy in a safe, unbiased, and nonjudgmental environment. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Kansas. I have a MS in Counseling Psychology, a graduate certification in Child and Adolescent Psychology from Avila University, and a BS in Developmental Psychology from the University of Kansas. I work with all age groups and specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment disorders, and Trauma.
(913) 349-7942 View (913) 349-7942
Photo of Rachel Hills - Maternal Mental Health KC, LLC, MS, LPC, LCPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maternal Mental Health KC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66206
I am a clinician that works exclusively with folks experiencing Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders, pregnancy and birth trauma and bereavement with pregnancy or infant loss. Growing a family can be full of twists, turns, ups and downs, often creating heartache, grief, depression, trauma, anxiety and a whole host of other challenges before during and after a baby. I work to meet my clients where they are in their journey. I will walk beside you, empower and support you and your family in reaching your goals, whatever that looks like.
I am a clinician that works exclusively with folks experiencing Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders, pregnancy and birth trauma and bereavement with pregnancy or infant loss. Growing a family can be full of twists, turns, ups and downs, often creating heartache, grief, depression, trauma, anxiety and a whole host of other challenges before during and after a baby. I work to meet my clients where they are in their journey. I will walk beside you, empower and support you and your family in reaching your goals, whatever that looks like.
(816) 299-6222 View (816) 299-6222
Photo of Carrie Soper, MA, LPC, PLPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carrie Soper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PLPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Leawood, KS 66209
Are you walking through a season of grief + loss? Are you worried about your biggest fear happening? I know that feeling: depression, anxiety, and profound worry. Seasons of uncertainty can be terrifying. And, when living through tragedy is your only option, making it to the next day can feel like a marathon. Friend, you don't have to walk this journey alone. My life experience and professional training have equipped me to come alongside others in a season of despair. Together, we can cultivate the tools for rediscovering joy, confidence, self-esteem & purpose. Healing is hard work, and you are worthy of feeling free to live fully.
Are you walking through a season of grief + loss? Are you worried about your biggest fear happening? I know that feeling: depression, anxiety, and profound worry. Seasons of uncertainty can be terrifying. And, when living through tragedy is your only option, making it to the next day can feel like a marathon. Friend, you don't have to walk this journey alone. My life experience and professional training have equipped me to come alongside others in a season of despair. Together, we can cultivate the tools for rediscovering joy, confidence, self-esteem & purpose. Healing is hard work, and you are worthy of feeling free to live fully.
(913) 246-4843 View (913) 246-4843
Photo of Dani Novo, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dani Novo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Leawood, KS 66209
My pronouns are ey/em/eir (but they/them works, too). I work primarily with queer persons to help them with mental health challenges at the unique intersections that are part of the LGBTQ+ identity. I specialize in issues of identity, gender, and sexuality, but I also bring a queer lens to our struggles with anxiety, depression, grief or anything that makes you less happy than you deserve to be. I work with young adults and adults, and with teens (and their families). I am not a good fit for people looking for couples counseling.
My pronouns are ey/em/eir (but they/them works, too). I work primarily with queer persons to help them with mental health challenges at the unique intersections that are part of the LGBTQ+ identity. I specialize in issues of identity, gender, and sexuality, but I also bring a queer lens to our struggles with anxiety, depression, grief or anything that makes you less happy than you deserve to be. I work with young adults and adults, and with teens (and their families). I am not a good fit for people looking for couples counseling.
(913) 423-2459 View (913) 423-2459
Photo of Linda Woofter, LCPC, MA
Linda Woofter
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66211
Is your life overwhelming right now? You may be feeling frustrated, confused, sad, angry, exhausted and/or just "stuck." Contacting a therapist is a courageous step in the path to change. I will support you at the pace that makes sense for you with empathy and compassion and without judgment. My focus areas are trauma and PTSD, anxiety, grief, depression, bipolar disorders, substance use, life transitions, workplace concerns, and other emotional, psychological, and relational concerns (see detailed list on this page).
Is your life overwhelming right now? You may be feeling frustrated, confused, sad, angry, exhausted and/or just "stuck." Contacting a therapist is a courageous step in the path to change. I will support you at the pace that makes sense for you with empathy and compassion and without judgment. My focus areas are trauma and PTSD, anxiety, grief, depression, bipolar disorders, substance use, life transitions, workplace concerns, and other emotional, psychological, and relational concerns (see detailed list on this page).
(913) 347-5593 View (913) 347-5593
Photo of Jennifer Dawdy, LSCSW, LCAC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Dawdy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCAC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66206
Whether you are coping with a miscarriage, death in the family, or challenges with a teenager, I will provide a welcoming office or a visit to your home to put your family at ease.
Are you experiencing anxiety, life challenges or grief and heartache? I’m here to provide empathy and expert guidance to ensure you and your family overcome these difficulties together.
Whether you are coping with a miscarriage, death in the family, or challenges with a teenager, I will provide a welcoming office or a visit to your home to put your family at ease.
Are you experiencing anxiety, life challenges or grief and heartache? I’m here to provide empathy and expert guidance to ensure you and your family overcome these difficulties together.
(913) 544-5877 View (913) 544-5877
Photo of Theresa Montgomery, MA , LCPC, Counselor
Theresa Montgomery
Counselor, MA , LCPC
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66211
I am passionate about helping people in the process of self-discovery and personal growth. I am particularly skilled in counseling adults and have significant experience helping individuals suffering with trauma, depression, anxiety, codependency, and life transition issues. I also provide care to those experiencing grief and loss that cannot be openly acknowledged. I earned my Master of Arts degree in Counseling from MidAmerica Nazarene University and am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Kansas.
I am passionate about helping people in the process of self-discovery and personal growth. I am particularly skilled in counseling adults and have significant experience helping individuals suffering with trauma, depression, anxiety, codependency, and life transition issues. I also provide care to those experiencing grief and loss that cannot be openly acknowledged. I earned my Master of Arts degree in Counseling from MidAmerica Nazarene University and am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Kansas.
(913) 490-0358 View (913) 490-0358
Photo of Stephanie Andrews, LSCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Andrews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66211
I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families experiencing challenges within the family system, which often show up as belligerent teens, difficulties in relationships, anxiety, depression, as well as the myriad issues that arise in the general navigation of life. These issues may include parenting issues, grief and loss, relationships, being part of the sandwich generation, work/life balance. I truly believe you already have the knowledge and wisdom needed to address these issues. As we work together, I will support and guide you as you gain clarity and identify steps to navigate your current challenges.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families experiencing challenges within the family system, which often show up as belligerent teens, difficulties in relationships, anxiety, depression, as well as the myriad issues that arise in the general navigation of life. These issues may include parenting issues, grief and loss, relationships, being part of the sandwich generation, work/life balance. I truly believe you already have the knowledge and wisdom needed to address these issues. As we work together, I will support and guide you as you gain clarity and identify steps to navigate your current challenges.
(913) 937-5524 View (913) 937-5524
Photo of Jan Goodison Comeau, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jan Goodison Comeau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66209
This treatment approach is very effective with all mood disorders, anxieties, trauma's, relationship issues, grief etc.
Everyone has problems. We cannot control the circumstances or people that show up in our lives, but we can decide how we are going to respond to them. Not knowing how you feel, what you think or what you want contributes to confusion, frustration, anxiety and depression. Establishing your own authentic self, as opposed to what others want you to be, can be a difficult task. Developing assertive communication skills and understanding your own emotional boundaries are essential to managing distressing symptoms and situations. I can help you take charge of your life and create the one you want.
This treatment approach is very effective with all mood disorders, anxieties, trauma's, relationship issues, grief etc.
Everyone has problems. We cannot control the circumstances or people that show up in our lives, but we can decide how we are going to respond to them. Not knowing how you feel, what you think or what you want contributes to confusion, frustration, anxiety and depression. Establishing your own authentic self, as opposed to what others want you to be, can be a difficult task. Developing assertive communication skills and understanding your own emotional boundaries are essential to managing distressing symptoms and situations. I can help you take charge of your life and create the one you want.
(913) 667-4547 View (913) 667-4547
Photo of Dori A Velasquez-Peach, MA, LCP
Dori A Velasquez-Peach
MA, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leawood, KS 66211
I have treated children, adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of issues including Anxiety disorders, ADHD, anger, depression, life stressors and changes, relationships, social and emotional needs; bereavement; co-occurring developmental delays.
I believe the most important factor to success in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. Finding the right fit is essential. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive environment to address your specific needs. I work with both adults and children, as young as preschool age. I utilize a variety of evidence-based therapy techniques and activities. In order to be successful, one on one therapy is provided at your child’s social, emotional, and developmental level. I actively support and collaborate with parents. I work to develop a relationship with adults to identify their strengths and goals. My goal is for you to feel successful.
I have treated children, adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of issues including Anxiety disorders, ADHD, anger, depression, life stressors and changes, relationships, social and emotional needs; bereavement; co-occurring developmental delays.
I believe the most important factor to success in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. Finding the right fit is essential. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive environment to address your specific needs. I work with both adults and children, as young as preschool age. I utilize a variety of evidence-based therapy techniques and activities. In order to be successful, one on one therapy is provided at your child’s social, emotional, and developmental level. I actively support and collaborate with parents. I work to develop a relationship with adults to identify their strengths and goals. My goal is for you to feel successful.
(913) 828-3461 View (913) 828-3461
Photo of Fred Mayfield, PhD, LCPC, LCMFT, Counselor
Fred Mayfield
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66211
I have the most experience with Marriage Counseling, Parent /Adult Child, Care Giving, Blending Families, Childhood Issues, Parenting, Careers, Grief, Divorce Adjustment, Sexual Difficulties, Shy Bladder, Depression, Parenting, Self harming behaviors, Asperger's, Anxiety, and Needle Phobia.
I am grateful to have been a part of helping so many individuals, couples, and blending families resolve their issues over the past 35 years. While the experience has honed my therapy skills, each new person or relationship is unique and requires exploring solutions that fit their individual personality.
I have the most experience with Marriage Counseling, Parent /Adult Child, Care Giving, Blending Families, Childhood Issues, Parenting, Careers, Grief, Divorce Adjustment, Sexual Difficulties, Shy Bladder, Depression, Parenting, Self harming behaviors, Asperger's, Anxiety, and Needle Phobia.
I am grateful to have been a part of helping so many individuals, couples, and blending families resolve their issues over the past 35 years. While the experience has honed my therapy skills, each new person or relationship is unique and requires exploring solutions that fit their individual personality.
(913) 667-7149 View (913) 667-7149
Photo of James (Jamie) Copaken, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James (Jamie) Copaken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66206
Since earning degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and Columbia University, I have helped people work through difficulties, including peer and family conflict, addiction, depression, anxiety, divorce, and grief.
We're all faced with challenges, big and small. Sometimes these grow to overpower and overwhelm us. The adults, children, and families I work with say that I help them feel heard, valued, comfortable, and that I provide a safe place to explore options and pick the right solutions.
Since earning degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and Columbia University, I have helped people work through difficulties, including peer and family conflict, addiction, depression, anxiety, divorce, and grief.
We're all faced with challenges, big and small. Sometimes these grow to overpower and overwhelm us. The adults, children, and families I work with say that I help them feel heard, valued, comfortable, and that I provide a safe place to explore options and pick the right solutions.
(913) 355-6267 View (913) 355-6267
Photo of Sylvia Neil, LPC, ALMFT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sylvia Neil
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ALMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66209  (Online Only)
I specialize in the areas of stress, anxiety, depression, self-worth, irrational and ruminating thoughts, grief, trauma, life transitions, relational distress, communication and intimacy concerns, emotional healing, infidelity, and the challenges and opportunities of blended families.
My passion is for strengthening adolescents, teens, adults, couples, marriages, and families. I bring a sense of mature wisdom, powerful presence, and hopefulness to each of my clients.
I specialize in the areas of stress, anxiety, depression, self-worth, irrational and ruminating thoughts, grief, trauma, life transitions, relational distress, communication and intimacy concerns, emotional healing, infidelity, and the challenges and opportunities of blended families.
My passion is for strengthening adolescents, teens, adults, couples, marriages, and families. I bring a sense of mature wisdom, powerful presence, and hopefulness to each of my clients.
(913) 937-5321 View (913) 937-5321
Photo of Melissa Dorsett, LSCSW, LMAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Dorsett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LMAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leawood, KS 66211
Waitlist for new clients
I also have experience helping with problems related to alcohol and/or drug abuse, depression, marital problems including infidelity, and grief associated with caring for children with mental and behavioral challenges.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and out of ideas. Making the decision to talk with a therapist is one that many people put off for some time, but most report improvement of life satisfaction as a result of taking this step. My priorities when working with individuals and couples in therapy are: 1. Fostering trust through authenticity, unconditional positive regard and confidentiality 2. Building a collaborative relationship through listening 3. Utilizing therapy techniques that have been proven to help people achieve more satisfying relationships with themselves and others.
I also have experience helping with problems related to alcohol and/or drug abuse, depression, marital problems including infidelity, and grief associated with caring for children with mental and behavioral challenges.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and out of ideas. Making the decision to talk with a therapist is one that many people put off for some time, but most report improvement of life satisfaction as a result of taking this step. My priorities when working with individuals and couples in therapy are: 1. Fostering trust through authenticity, unconditional positive regard and confidentiality 2. Building a collaborative relationship through listening 3. Utilizing therapy techniques that have been proven to help people achieve more satisfying relationships with themselves and others.
(913) 318-5693 View (913) 318-5693
Photo of Lynne Weilert, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynne Weilert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66211
I also have experience in treating OCD, Grief and Loss, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and many other issues, utilizing various treatment modalities tailored to the individual or couples specific needs.
My clients have ranged from 16 to 96. I try to identify with clients of all ages, male or female. Although I practice Christianity, I welcome clients of any faith. I have personally experienced many of the hardships, work and relationship issues, and struggles many of my clients face. My goal is to address your issues with compassion, empathy, confidentiality, and expertise. I provide a safe, warm, and friendly environment to help clients “ find their way through the storms of life.” Call me today!
I also have experience in treating OCD, Grief and Loss, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and many other issues, utilizing various treatment modalities tailored to the individual or couples specific needs.
My clients have ranged from 16 to 96. I try to identify with clients of all ages, male or female. Although I practice Christianity, I welcome clients of any faith. I have personally experienced many of the hardships, work and relationship issues, and struggles many of my clients face. My goal is to address your issues with compassion, empathy, confidentiality, and expertise. I provide a safe, warm, and friendly environment to help clients “ find their way through the storms of life.” Call me today!
(913) 349-5209 View (913) 349-5209
Photo of Dr. Thomas M. Letvinchuck Ironwoods Behavioral Health, PhD, LCMFT
Dr. Thomas M. Letvinchuck Ironwoods Behavioral Health
PhD, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66211
My focus also includes life transitions; work stress; loss and grief; and relationship problems on an individual basis.
Greetings! My name is Dr. Thomas M. Letvinchuck. I am the founder of Ironwoods Behavioral Health here in Leawood, Kansas. I hold a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and maintain a LCMFT license in the State of Kansas. "I believe it is important to establish a good rapport with you; I want you to feel safe, seen, and understood; to achieve symptom relief, solutions, and to get you back on the right track. The types of treatment utilized in my practice will be tailored to your individual needs. Psychotherapy is not just about talking out problems and crisis issues, but about building self-confidence, courage and a belief in oneself."
My focus also includes life transitions; work stress; loss and grief; and relationship problems on an individual basis.
Greetings! My name is Dr. Thomas M. Letvinchuck. I am the founder of Ironwoods Behavioral Health here in Leawood, Kansas. I hold a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and maintain a LCMFT license in the State of Kansas. "I believe it is important to establish a good rapport with you; I want you to feel safe, seen, and understood; to achieve symptom relief, solutions, and to get you back on the right track. The types of treatment utilized in my practice will be tailored to your individual needs. Psychotherapy is not just about talking out problems and crisis issues, but about building self-confidence, courage and a belief in oneself."
(913) 357-6319 View (913) 357-6319
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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.