Grief Therapists in Overland Park, KS

Photo of Natalie Fitts, Pre-Licensed Professional
Natalie Fitts
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66207
I enjoy working with attachment issues, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, codependency, and sexual and relationship issues.
I am a Master’s degree level counselor in a clinical internship through Seattle University where I am pursuing a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. With my unique background in journalism and law, I work hard to understand complex human stories by listening empathetically, asking insightful questions, and uncovering the deeper narratives within people’s experiences. I approach therapy with curiosity and the belief that every person deserves to live a life of joy, hope, and growth.
I enjoy working with attachment issues, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, codependency, and sexual and relationship issues.
I am a Master’s degree level counselor in a clinical internship through Seattle University where I am pursuing a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. With my unique background in journalism and law, I work hard to understand complex human stories by listening empathetically, asking insightful questions, and uncovering the deeper narratives within people’s experiences. I approach therapy with curiosity and the belief that every person deserves to live a life of joy, hope, and growth.
(913) 404-8267 View (913) 404-8267
Photo of Marian Swartz - Video And Phone Counseling, LSCSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marian Swartz - Video And Phone Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66212  (Online Only)
Therapy helps you to create the life you want. Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, the loss of a loved one, grief, past trauma, or major life changes? Are you feeling unsure about the future, or caught in a rut and worried things won't get better? Therapy is a process of self-discovery and growth. Are you ready to focus on building the new, instead of fighting the old? Together, we will identify the thoughts, behaviors, and emotions keeping you from having genuine happiness and contentment in your life.
Therapy helps you to create the life you want. Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, the loss of a loved one, grief, past trauma, or major life changes? Are you feeling unsure about the future, or caught in a rut and worried things won't get better? Therapy is a process of self-discovery and growth. Are you ready to focus on building the new, instead of fighting the old? Together, we will identify the thoughts, behaviors, and emotions keeping you from having genuine happiness and contentment in your life.
(913) 347-8031 View (913) 347-8031
Photo of Heather Hargrove, MA, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Hargrove
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66212
I specialize in working with people to identify negative thought patterns, working through past trauma, and grief/ loss.
Are you struggling with grief and loss? I can help. You may be experiencing waves of despair that are indescribable and feel overwhelming. I can help you navigate through such a difficult time. You deserve happiness. My goal is to work with you to meet your needs and to help you work through the pain towards healing. This is your first step to begin to heal and reconnect with yourself. I use evidenced-based techniques and interventions to help clients with not only grief, but also anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relational issues, and trauma.
I specialize in working with people to identify negative thought patterns, working through past trauma, and grief/ loss.
Are you struggling with grief and loss? I can help. You may be experiencing waves of despair that are indescribable and feel overwhelming. I can help you navigate through such a difficult time. You deserve happiness. My goal is to work with you to meet your needs and to help you work through the pain towards healing. This is your first step to begin to heal and reconnect with yourself. I use evidenced-based techniques and interventions to help clients with not only grief, but also anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relational issues, and trauma.
(913) 490-0790 View (913) 490-0790
Photo of Lisa O Redlingshafer - Lisa O. Redlingshafer Counseling Services, LLC, MS, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa O. Redlingshafer Counseling Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66210
I believe in the human capacity for resilience and recovery and I am inspired by individual courage during times of adversity. I enjoy helping clients understand and deal with the complicated feelings associated with relationship issues, medical illness, life's transitions and grief and loss. If your relationships lack intimacy and support, if you are feeling overwhelmed with life's challenges, or if your sadness or fear make it impossible to move forward in a healthy way, I provide a warm and compassionate approach to help you find hope and comfort during difficult and painful times.
I believe in the human capacity for resilience and recovery and I am inspired by individual courage during times of adversity. I enjoy helping clients understand and deal with the complicated feelings associated with relationship issues, medical illness, life's transitions and grief and loss. If your relationships lack intimacy and support, if you are feeling overwhelmed with life's challenges, or if your sadness or fear make it impossible to move forward in a healthy way, I provide a warm and compassionate approach to help you find hope and comfort during difficult and painful times.
(913) 766-2732 View (913) 766-2732
Photo of Theresa Montgomery, MA , LCPC, Counselor
Theresa Montgomery
Counselor, MA , LCPC
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66212
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 Margaret P Ragan, MA, LCPC, CEAP, Counselor
Margaret P Ragan
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CEAP
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66202
Waitlist for new clients
Problems overwhelming you? Ready to take action and make changes within a confidential, supportive environment? I've helped people with relationship issues; bereavement issues; job problems; substance abuse; stress and anxiety; women's issues; improving communication skills. I believe we gain new insights when we are able to look at our problems and lives through a different perspective. My goal is to teach clients new ways of perceiving the problem, healthy coping skills for responding to the problem, and healthy attitudes and communication skills for working with partners, families or work environments.
Problems overwhelming you? Ready to take action and make changes within a confidential, supportive environment? I've helped people with relationship issues; bereavement issues; job problems; substance abuse; stress and anxiety; women's issues; improving communication skills. I believe we gain new insights when we are able to look at our problems and lives through a different perspective. My goal is to teach clients new ways of perceiving the problem, healthy coping skills for responding to the problem, and healthy attitudes and communication skills for working with partners, families or work environments.
(816) 659-3145 View (816) 659-3145
Photo of Dani Novo, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dani Novo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66204
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 Debra K Nixon, MA, NCC, LCPC, C-SATP, NARM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debra K Nixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC, C-SATP, NARM
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
I enjoy working with individuals and couples, and with issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, infidelity, sexual abuse, grief, faith dilemma's, or chronic pain.
Passion...not everyone has it or even knows where to begin to find it. So much gets in the way of it, such as life, work, raising a family, running a business, being a single parent, saving a marriage, surviving grief...or just surviving. I want to help you reconnect with those parts of yourself that have been put aside, help to restore meaningful relationships, self-worth, self-respect, and to assist in finding passion in living, while overcoming obstacles of grief, addiction, trauma, guilt, or fear. Let's get started! I work from an Attachment framework, NARM, CBT, EFT and other modalities including Faith (when requested).
I enjoy working with individuals and couples, and with issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, infidelity, sexual abuse, grief, faith dilemma's, or chronic pain.
Passion...not everyone has it or even knows where to begin to find it. So much gets in the way of it, such as life, work, raising a family, running a business, being a single parent, saving a marriage, surviving grief...or just surviving. I want to help you reconnect with those parts of yourself that have been put aside, help to restore meaningful relationships, self-worth, self-respect, and to assist in finding passion in living, while overcoming obstacles of grief, addiction, trauma, guilt, or fear. Let's get started! I work from an Attachment framework, NARM, CBT, EFT and other modalities including Faith (when requested).
(913) 800-4613 View (913) 800-4613
Photo of Emily Aguilar, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Aguilar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
My specialties are grief/ loss, transitions, religious trauma, and couples.
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming, and at times, intimidating. I can relate to that! That's why I've made it my goal to create a safe and approachable space that naturally yields growth and accountability. My approach is mostly client-centered. I believe you are the expert on YOU and I am here to be a compassionate facilitator, listener, encourager and supporter in your process of self-discovery and healing.
My specialties are grief/ loss, transitions, religious trauma, and couples.
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming, and at times, intimidating. I can relate to that! That's why I've made it my goal to create a safe and approachable space that naturally yields growth and accountability. My approach is mostly client-centered. I believe you are the expert on YOU and I am here to be a compassionate facilitator, listener, encourager and supporter in your process of self-discovery and healing.
(913) 430-1817 View (913) 430-1817
Photo of Angela L Lake, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela L Lake
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66212
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, personal relationships? Concerned about finding a therapist who will be a good fit for you? My view of therapy is to come alongside you; to support transformation into the best version of yourself; to allow you to integrate thoughts, feelings, and emotions; to work through old wounds and barriers...so you can learn to use healthier coping skills, better communication skills, and handle conflict. I believe when you feel accepted and supported, then you are more able to risk vulnerability, to look into yourself in order to grow, enjoy being you and have healthier connections.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, personal relationships? Concerned about finding a therapist who will be a good fit for you? My view of therapy is to come alongside you; to support transformation into the best version of yourself; to allow you to integrate thoughts, feelings, and emotions; to work through old wounds and barriers...so you can learn to use healthier coping skills, better communication skills, and handle conflict. I believe when you feel accepted and supported, then you are more able to risk vulnerability, to look into yourself in order to grow, enjoy being you and have healthier connections.
(913) 728-5132 View (913) 728-5132
Photo of Tara Tooley, LCSW, LMSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Tooley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66212
I can't remove the cause of your pain, but I can help you through your pain, fear, grief & anxiety.
Grief can imprison our soul, mind & body. Spiritually this can trigger the darkness we courageously battle alone. When our soul is trapped within this darkness it can be difficult to navigate towards the doorway of freedom. Loss can take many forms-the death of a loved one or cherished pet, an unexpected medical diagnosis, the end of a relationship, a miscarriage, even the loss of a body part or job. No matter the source of your grief, it is valid & real. I will provide you with compassion, support & unique solutions using evidenced based techniques to help you cope & recover from grief & loss, anxiety, depression, trauma & cancer.
I can't remove the cause of your pain, but I can help you through your pain, fear, grief & anxiety.
Grief can imprison our soul, mind & body. Spiritually this can trigger the darkness we courageously battle alone. When our soul is trapped within this darkness it can be difficult to navigate towards the doorway of freedom. Loss can take many forms-the death of a loved one or cherished pet, an unexpected medical diagnosis, the end of a relationship, a miscarriage, even the loss of a body part or job. No matter the source of your grief, it is valid & real. I will provide you with compassion, support & unique solutions using evidenced based techniques to help you cope & recover from grief & loss, anxiety, depression, trauma & cancer.
(913) 347-5486 View (913) 347-5486
Photo of Dr. Becky Hunter, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Becky Hunter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
I welcome all clients looking to improve their life, work on relationships, manage anxiety and/or depression, process trauma, and navigate grief.
Making the decision to start therapy is not easy, and finding the right therapist can feel nearly impossible. I tell my clients that no one should be in therapy forever; rather, therapy provides an opportunity to process your experiences and learn strategies to keep moving forward as you ride the roller coaster of life. I value the implementation of therapeutic techniques supported by research while providing a nonjudgmental, supportive, strengths-based approach.
I welcome all clients looking to improve their life, work on relationships, manage anxiety and/or depression, process trauma, and navigate grief.
Making the decision to start therapy is not easy, and finding the right therapist can feel nearly impossible. I tell my clients that no one should be in therapy forever; rather, therapy provides an opportunity to process your experiences and learn strategies to keep moving forward as you ride the roller coaster of life. I value the implementation of therapeutic techniques supported by research while providing a nonjudgmental, supportive, strengths-based approach.
(913) 386-6015 View (913) 386-6015
Photo of Cheryl Herzog-Arneill, LMSW, SEP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cheryl Herzog-Arneill
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66212
Are you facing difficulties in your life, such as anxiety, depression, grief or lack of motivation? Perhaps you’ve heard that working with your body and nervous system—also known as somatic therapy—can be helpful and bring more vitality to your life, help reduce stress, or heal past trauma. If so, then my approach may be a good fit for you. My goal is to collaborate with you to heal trauma, restore resiliency, and develop skills so that you can show up in your unique, beautiful life and shine. I specialize in working with the nervous system to help you get in touch with your true essence & aliveness.
Are you facing difficulties in your life, such as anxiety, depression, grief or lack of motivation? Perhaps you’ve heard that working with your body and nervous system—also known as somatic therapy—can be helpful and bring more vitality to your life, help reduce stress, or heal past trauma. If so, then my approach may be a good fit for you. My goal is to collaborate with you to heal trauma, restore resiliency, and develop skills so that you can show up in your unique, beautiful life and shine. I specialize in working with the nervous system to help you get in touch with your true essence & aliveness.
(913) 794-3885 View (913) 794-3885
Photo of Jessica Carter, LSCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66210
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri and Kansas. I have worked with adolescents in crisis and suffering from addictions since 2000. I have worked with adults and veterans with Co-occurring Disorders and trauma since 2006. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma, addictions, and grief and loss issues. I utilize Cognitive Processing Theory, EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Theory, Mindfulness, Motivational Enhancement Theory, and Solution Focused to help individuals identify and cope with mental health issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri and Kansas. I have worked with adolescents in crisis and suffering from addictions since 2000. I have worked with adults and veterans with Co-occurring Disorders and trauma since 2006. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma, addictions, and grief and loss issues. I utilize Cognitive Processing Theory, EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Theory, Mindfulness, Motivational Enhancement Theory, and Solution Focused to help individuals identify and cope with mental health issues.
(833) 242-8611 View (833) 242-8611
Photo of Marlene Feder, LPCC, LCPC
Marlene Feder
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66210
As a non-judgmental witness I'll help you: explore pain & grief; navigate life transitions; examine past issues that impact you today; develop strategies to move through the stuckness; and find ways to cope with things that seem unmanageable.
Counseling is often thought of as something "weak people" turn to or something to use when you're "going crazy". In reality, counseling is a process that helps people deal with problems that occur with living our day-to-day lives. When life feels difficult or stressful, it often helps to talk with a person who listens well - to have a place where you can be heard and understood in a way that makes a difference. Counseling is that place; a collaborative process that can help you explore what's working well in your life and what you want to be different. With counseling, I want you to be able to live your most authentic life.
As a non-judgmental witness I'll help you: explore pain & grief; navigate life transitions; examine past issues that impact you today; develop strategies to move through the stuckness; and find ways to cope with things that seem unmanageable.
Counseling is often thought of as something "weak people" turn to or something to use when you're "going crazy". In reality, counseling is a process that helps people deal with problems that occur with living our day-to-day lives. When life feels difficult or stressful, it often helps to talk with a person who listens well - to have a place where you can be heard and understood in a way that makes a difference. Counseling is that place; a collaborative process that can help you explore what's working well in your life and what you want to be different. With counseling, I want you to be able to live your most authentic life.
(913) 845-7690 View (913) 845-7690
Photo of Jennifer Dawdy, LSCSW, LCAC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Dawdy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCAC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66204
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 Carrie Soper, MA, LPC, PLPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carrie Soper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PLPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66213
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 Linda Woofter, LCPC, MA
Linda Woofter
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66210
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 Patti DeMarco, LCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patti DeMarco
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66207  (Online Only)
I am a certified grief educator through David Kessler, Inc, passionate about working with grief by utilizing a combination of Acceptance and Commitment therapy, mindfulness, and experiential techniques.
Sometimes things happen that profoundly change the way we experience life. Whether expected or not, life transitions can leave us feeling anxious, angry, alone, or depressed. These changes can come in many forms, including the loss of a loved one, infertility, a divorce or break up, job changes, chronic illness, leaving home, etc. My goal is to help you process the many emotions that accompany the adjustments in your life and discover new strengths and experiences that come along with it. Give me a call to embrace your new day.
I am a certified grief educator through David Kessler, Inc, passionate about working with grief by utilizing a combination of Acceptance and Commitment therapy, mindfulness, and experiential techniques.
Sometimes things happen that profoundly change the way we experience life. Whether expected or not, life transitions can leave us feeling anxious, angry, alone, or depressed. These changes can come in many forms, including the loss of a loved one, infertility, a divorce or break up, job changes, chronic illness, leaving home, etc. My goal is to help you process the many emotions that accompany the adjustments in your life and discover new strengths and experiences that come along with it. Give me a call to embrace your new day.
(281) 247-6944 View (281) 247-6944
Photo of Dacia Moore - GateWay of Hope Women's Counseling Center, LPC, LCPC, LCSW, LMFT
GateWay of Hope Women's Counseling Center
LPC, LCPC, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66213
We have a variety of counselors of different ages and backgrounds that work with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, domestic violence, suicide are just a few examples.
Feel like you don’t have enough time in a day? Feel exhausted, overwhelmed and hopeless? In need of a safe place to relax? Gateway is here to help! GateWay of Hope offers a safe, caring, healing environment that exclusively works with women. Our counselors are here to meet your needs in a home like setting with a relaxed atmosphere. Our relaxed setting will enable you to heal at your own comfort with highly skilled licensed counselors and life coaches who have a passion for helping women. We offer counseling from a Christian perspective, but you tell us how much of your faith you want in your healing. Call Us!
We have a variety of counselors of different ages and backgrounds that work with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, domestic violence, suicide are just a few examples.
Feel like you don’t have enough time in a day? Feel exhausted, overwhelmed and hopeless? In need of a safe place to relax? Gateway is here to help! GateWay of Hope offers a safe, caring, healing environment that exclusively works with women. Our counselors are here to meet your needs in a home like setting with a relaxed atmosphere. Our relaxed setting will enable you to heal at your own comfort with highly skilled licensed counselors and life coaches who have a passion for helping women. We offer counseling from a Christian perspective, but you tell us how much of your faith you want in your healing. Call Us!
(913) 225-8840 View (913) 225-8840
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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.