Grief Therapists in Prairie Village, KS

Photo of Marty Kraus, LCPC, LPC, Counselor
Marty Kraus
Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Prairie Village, KS 66208
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 Liz Pruett, LPC, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Liz Pruett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Prairie Village, KS 66208
As someone who is grieving or suffering through a life transition, you often find yourself wondering will I feel better, can I feel better? It seems like you’ve tried everything but nothing seems to work, at least not for very long. Imagine what it would feel like to move forward, what would it be like if your life wasn’t controlled by your pain? A life transition can be planned or unplanned, positive or negative. They may be dramatic as in accidents, death, divorce, job loss or serious illness or can come from positive experiences such as getting married, going away to college, starting a new job, moving away or giving birth.
As someone who is grieving or suffering through a life transition, you often find yourself wondering will I feel better, can I feel better? It seems like you’ve tried everything but nothing seems to work, at least not for very long. Imagine what it would feel like to move forward, what would it be like if your life wasn’t controlled by your pain? A life transition can be planned or unplanned, positive or negative. They may be dramatic as in accidents, death, divorce, job loss or serious illness or can come from positive experiences such as getting married, going away to college, starting a new job, moving away or giving birth.
(913) 354-7207 View (913) 354-7207
Photo of Dr. Shari Grady, PhD, LCPC, LPC, NCC, CISM, Counselor
Dr. Shari Grady
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LPC, NCC, CISM
Verified Verified
Prairie Village, KS 66208
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 Katie Dalbey - Katie Dalbey, LLC, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Dalbey, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prairie Village, KS 66208
I have experience working with symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, infertility, and grief and loss.
It is a true honor to meet my clients in the therapeutic space. I am reminded each time I meet a new client of the immense bravery and vulnerability it takes to show up for yourself. I believe therapy can help to ground us in the present, while exploring the parts of ourselves that need attention. The therapeutic space can serve as a holding container, while the internal and external work happens. My vision is to offer a safe environment to express your thoughts and emotions while in connection with one another.
I have experience working with symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, infertility, and grief and loss.
It is a true honor to meet my clients in the therapeutic space. I am reminded each time I meet a new client of the immense bravery and vulnerability it takes to show up for yourself. I believe therapy can help to ground us in the present, while exploring the parts of ourselves that need attention. The therapeutic space can serve as a holding container, while the internal and external work happens. My vision is to offer a safe environment to express your thoughts and emotions while in connection with one another.
(816) 339-4985 View (816) 339-4985
Photo of Grief Therapist Shannon Kirby, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Grief Therapist Shannon Kirby
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Prairie Village, KS 66208
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 Linda Woofter, LCPC, MA
Linda Woofter
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
Prairie Village, KS 66208
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 Marian G. Swartz, LSCSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marian G. Swartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prairie Village, KS 66207  (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 Carrie Soper, MA, LPC, PLPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carrie Soper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PLPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Prairie Village, KS 66208
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 Elizabeth Kaufman, MS, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Kaufman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prairie Village, KS 66208
Life can often feel painful, overwhelming and lonely. If you are feeling emotionally disconnected from your spouse or partner, struggling with feelings of sadness and anxiety, or suffering from past wounds, I am committed to helping you find balance and restoration. I am experienced in working with individuals, couples and families in all stages of life to foster individual healing, repair and strengthen relationships, and help shed the effects of abuse, loss, and other traumas. My goal is to cultivate a safe and supportive environment for you to process and grow, enabling you to live life with fullness and meaning.
Life can often feel painful, overwhelming and lonely. If you are feeling emotionally disconnected from your spouse or partner, struggling with feelings of sadness and anxiety, or suffering from past wounds, I am committed to helping you find balance and restoration. I am experienced in working with individuals, couples and families in all stages of life to foster individual healing, repair and strengthen relationships, and help shed the effects of abuse, loss, and other traumas. My goal is to cultivate a safe and supportive environment for you to process and grow, enabling you to live life with fullness and meaning.
(816) 293-3182 View (816) 293-3182
Jeanne P Mosca
Psychologist, PhD, LLC
Verified Verified
Prairie Village, KS 66208
My areas of specialization include the treatment of anxiety, depression, long-standing feelings of unhappiness; grief, loss; feelings of emptiness, alienation, not knowing oneself; history of trauma, sex abuse; life transitions (college, divorce, retirement, etc.
With over twenty years of experience, I offer compassionate care in treating problems that have been resistant to change. Through depth psychology, I help clients address issues such as loss, alienation, lack of intimacy, insecurity, feelings of emptiness, and the scars of prior traumatic experiences, all of which often lead to depression and anxiety. My expertise includes individual short- and long- term psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and couples counseling for adults of all ages.
My areas of specialization include the treatment of anxiety, depression, long-standing feelings of unhappiness; grief, loss; feelings of emptiness, alienation, not knowing oneself; history of trauma, sex abuse; life transitions (college, divorce, retirement, etc.
With over twenty years of experience, I offer compassionate care in treating problems that have been resistant to change. Through depth psychology, I help clients address issues such as loss, alienation, lack of intimacy, insecurity, feelings of emptiness, and the scars of prior traumatic experiences, all of which often lead to depression and anxiety. My expertise includes individual short- and long- term psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and couples counseling for adults of all ages.
(913) 601-8317 View (913) 601-8317
Birchwood Counseling Group
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Prairie Village, KS 66208
Our team of highly skilled therapists offers a diverse range of expertise, including treatment modalities for anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, grief, trauma, EMDR, and couples counseling.
Whether you are dealing with stress from a life transition or a major mental health issue, we are here for you. Our team offers a variety of specialties and treatment approaches. We aim to work with you to achieve the best possible outcome for whatever you are going through so you can live your best life. Scheduling with us is easy! Just click here to access our patient portal under the scheduling tab at Birchwoodkc.com
Our team of highly skilled therapists offers a diverse range of expertise, including treatment modalities for anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, grief, trauma, EMDR, and couples counseling.
Whether you are dealing with stress from a life transition or a major mental health issue, we are here for you. Our team offers a variety of specialties and treatment approaches. We aim to work with you to achieve the best possible outcome for whatever you are going through so you can live your best life. Scheduling with us is easy! Just click here to access our patient portal under the scheduling tab at Birchwoodkc.com
(913) 733-3915 View (913) 733-3915
Photo of Kelly Trowbridge, PhD, LSCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Trowbridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Prairie Village, KS 66208
Are you grappling with significant life changes or facing circumstances such as disability, chronic illness, dementia, or loss? Perhaps you're contending with daunting day-to-day to challenges within these circumstances. Whether you're an individual, partner, parent, family member, or health careprovider, these situations may prompt questions about identity, purpose, and meaning, fostering a need for compassionate understanding, support, and practical strategies. Amidst uncertainty, stress, and overwhelm, I offer a secure and accepting relationship to explore these complexities for growth and connection.
Are you grappling with significant life changes or facing circumstances such as disability, chronic illness, dementia, or loss? Perhaps you're contending with daunting day-to-day to challenges within these circumstances. Whether you're an individual, partner, parent, family member, or health careprovider, these situations may prompt questions about identity, purpose, and meaning, fostering a need for compassionate understanding, support, and practical strategies. Amidst uncertainty, stress, and overwhelm, I offer a secure and accepting relationship to explore these complexities for growth and connection.
(913) 937-5355 View (913) 937-5355
Photo of Valery Johnson, MS, LCPC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Valery Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Prairie Village, KS 66208
Sometimes life can be too much to handle by yourself. Seeking help is brave and if you are looking for a caring partner to make important changes in your life, I am here to help. Whether your struggles include anxiety, depression, past trauma, emotional management, grief, substance use, difficulty in relationships or career issues we can find a way to wellness. The most important step in therapy is cultivating a trusting relationship between the therapist and the client. We will start by finding comfort in our sessions. We will seek to find the most effective therapeutic techniques that work for you.
Sometimes life can be too much to handle by yourself. Seeking help is brave and if you are looking for a caring partner to make important changes in your life, I am here to help. Whether your struggles include anxiety, depression, past trauma, emotional management, grief, substance use, difficulty in relationships or career issues we can find a way to wellness. The most important step in therapy is cultivating a trusting relationship between the therapist and the client. We will start by finding comfort in our sessions. We will seek to find the most effective therapeutic techniques that work for you.
(913) 318-4709 View (913) 318-4709
Photo of Janie Faville, LCSW, LSCSW, CSW, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janie Faville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW, CSW, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prairie Village, KS 66208
I have experience providing CBT and EMDR to individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, grief and loss, the effects of trauma, and other life-stressors.
No matter what has brought you to this place, change is possible. You may feel exhausted on the hamster wheel of anxiety or stuck in a pit of depression. You may be grieving a life that you used to know and struggling to find your new footing. You may just feel stagnant and in need of a fresh perspective. If therapy is the next right thing for you, I’d be honored to walk alongside you in uncovering the path forward as you discover more “next right things.”
I have experience providing CBT and EMDR to individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, grief and loss, the effects of trauma, and other life-stressors.
No matter what has brought you to this place, change is possible. You may feel exhausted on the hamster wheel of anxiety or stuck in a pit of depression. You may be grieving a life that you used to know and struggling to find your new footing. You may just feel stagnant and in need of a fresh perspective. If therapy is the next right thing for you, I’d be honored to walk alongside you in uncovering the path forward as you discover more “next right things.”
(913) 380-8144 View (913) 380-8144
Photo of Anne Schleicher, MSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Schleicher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Prairie Village, KS 66208  (Online Only)
Therapy is a creative partnership. I bring to it compassion, 23 years of experience, and extensive skills in working with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, and family dynamics. I believe managing life's challenges and transitions is most effective through helping clients utilize their own inner strengths and resources to change their thinking and behaviors. Through the pandemic, I came to believe that working virtually provides a variety of therapeutic advantages such as allowing the client to participate from his or her own comfortable space and without geographic limitations.
Therapy is a creative partnership. I bring to it compassion, 23 years of experience, and extensive skills in working with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, and family dynamics. I believe managing life's challenges and transitions is most effective through helping clients utilize their own inner strengths and resources to change their thinking and behaviors. Through the pandemic, I came to believe that working virtually provides a variety of therapeutic advantages such as allowing the client to participate from his or her own comfortable space and without geographic limitations.
(913) 357-5698 View (913) 357-5698
Photo of Jaimee Harris, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jaimee Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Prairie Village, KS 66208
My clients benefit from a powerful combination of evidence-based technique and a nurturing presence to heal past wounds, process lingering effects of trauma, loss or abuse and can restore healthy relationships and experience a sense of wholeness. I am devoted to serving others through connection and warmth with non judgmental guidance. Through commitment to genuine acceptance and perceptive insight, I help identify the impact of life issues and a variety of mental health concerns. As a passionate and professional Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals, couples and families. My approach emphasizes repair, rediscovery of choice and hope.
My clients benefit from a powerful combination of evidence-based technique and a nurturing presence to heal past wounds, process lingering effects of trauma, loss or abuse and can restore healthy relationships and experience a sense of wholeness. I am devoted to serving others through connection and warmth with non judgmental guidance. Through commitment to genuine acceptance and perceptive insight, I help identify the impact of life issues and a variety of mental health concerns. As a passionate and professional Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals, couples and families. My approach emphasizes repair, rediscovery of choice and hope.
(913) 423-8141 View (913) 423-8141
Photo of Julie Kaufmanschmidt, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Kaufmanschmidt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prairie Village, KS 66208
Welcome! I would love to work with you to improve your life. I've helped many people with personal growth issues. I've seen clients improve from the curve balls life has thrown at them like infidelity, health issues, infertility, and grief. I've helped clients improve their functioning while dealing with severe diagnoses of depression, bipolar and anxiety. Family peace can be restored between parents and children.
Welcome! I would love to work with you to improve your life. I've helped many people with personal growth issues. I've seen clients improve from the curve balls life has thrown at them like infidelity, health issues, infertility, and grief. I've helped clients improve their functioning while dealing with severe diagnoses of depression, bipolar and anxiety. Family peace can be restored between parents and children.
(816) 307-0696 View (816) 307-0696
Photo of Kathryn Grant, MA, LPC, LCAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathryn Grant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCAC
Verified Verified
Prairie Village, KS 66208
I have a back ground working in addiction treatment centers and I work with clients needing assistance with general mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress reduction, grief, healthy communication skills and conflict resolution.
I am currently accepting new clients and am enthusiastic in my approach to therapy! I have been in practice 19 years and continue to feel privileged and look forward to meeting with and talking to my clients daily! I have a background in working with clients with substance use issues and also work extensively with families and loved ones affected by substance use. I also help clients with issues like depression, anxiety, grief and stress. I use mindfulness, meditation, solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and ACT among others to help clients change their internal dialogs.
I have a back ground working in addiction treatment centers and I work with clients needing assistance with general mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress reduction, grief, healthy communication skills and conflict resolution.
I am currently accepting new clients and am enthusiastic in my approach to therapy! I have been in practice 19 years and continue to feel privileged and look forward to meeting with and talking to my clients daily! I have a background in working with clients with substance use issues and also work extensively with families and loved ones affected by substance use. I also help clients with issues like depression, anxiety, grief and stress. I use mindfulness, meditation, solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and ACT among others to help clients change their internal dialogs.
(913) 325-4625 View (913) 325-4625
Photo of Joel Gustafson, MA, LCMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joel Gustafson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LCMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Prairie Village, KS 66208
I serve people in the areas of anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, identity formation, parenting, couples and pre-marital/marital.
At the core of every person are innate needs to feel safe, secure, protection, love and connection. These innate needs follow us throughout life and have a significant impact on our ability to experience life to the fullest. When our innate needs are not being met we can experience significant negative emotion & stress. If we pay attention to our emotions, they help shed light on areas in our life where these needs are not being satisfied, which often results in stress. Our innate needs are satisfied physically, emotionally, psychologically, spiritually & behaviorally, but we have to be intentional and active in that process.
I serve people in the areas of anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, identity formation, parenting, couples and pre-marital/marital.
At the core of every person are innate needs to feel safe, secure, protection, love and connection. These innate needs follow us throughout life and have a significant impact on our ability to experience life to the fullest. When our innate needs are not being met we can experience significant negative emotion & stress. If we pay attention to our emotions, they help shed light on areas in our life where these needs are not being satisfied, which often results in stress. Our innate needs are satisfied physically, emotionally, psychologically, spiritually & behaviorally, but we have to be intentional and active in that process.
(913) 608-4717 View (913) 608-4717
Photo of Rebecca Sue Baxter - KC Counseling Studio, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
KC Counseling Studio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Prairie Village, KS 66208
My therapeutic style is ideal for clients looking to reconnect with themselves on all levels. Clients should come curious about identifying emotional and psychological blocks, as well as where trauma, tension, anxiety, or depression is stored in the physical body. I specialize in treating people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, illness, death, sexual assault survivors, and bi-polar. I frequently work with women who are trying to stabilize their body and mind after childbirth, trauma, or menapause. All are welcome.
My therapeutic style is ideal for clients looking to reconnect with themselves on all levels. Clients should come curious about identifying emotional and psychological blocks, as well as where trauma, tension, anxiety, or depression is stored in the physical body. I specialize in treating people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, illness, death, sexual assault survivors, and bi-polar. I frequently work with women who are trying to stabilize their body and mind after childbirth, trauma, or menapause. All are welcome.
(816) 623-1011 View (816) 623-1011
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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.