Grief Therapists in Youngsville, LA

Photo of Nina McAlvanah, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nina McAlvanah
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Youngsville, LA 70592
As of 2024, I am certified in grief & loss.
An ideal client would be motivated, willing to self disclose and devoid of embellishment or denial. Their needs would be to heal with the understanding that therapy is a process and optimum results occur when a client is proactive in his or her recovery. Clients should be aware that therapy is their platform to be seen and heard. With 40 years of experience, I promise my clients that I have seen and heard it all! I believe that each individual is creative and unique and that there is no "one" way to be happy or live life. I will work with you to increase your understanding of how thoughts, feelings and behaviors are connected.
As of 2024, I am certified in grief & loss.
An ideal client would be motivated, willing to self disclose and devoid of embellishment or denial. Their needs would be to heal with the understanding that therapy is a process and optimum results occur when a client is proactive in his or her recovery. Clients should be aware that therapy is their platform to be seen and heard. With 40 years of experience, I promise my clients that I have seen and heard it all! I believe that each individual is creative and unique and that there is no "one" way to be happy or live life. I will work with you to increase your understanding of how thoughts, feelings and behaviors are connected.
(337) 409-5274 View (337) 409-5274
Photo of Anita Pool, PhD, LPC, NCC, NCSC, Counselor
Anita Pool
Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, NCSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Youngsville, LA 70592
I especially enjoy counseling women who are dealing with women’s-related issues and grief.
Hi, I'm Dr. Anita Pool! Are you or your child struggling due to a transition, loss, or other life event? Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or in need of support? If so, I would love to help! Whether working with children or adults, I practice from a person-centered approach which relies heavily on the relationship between the client and counselor. As such, I see the counseling relationship as a critical element for change and work to create a warm, safe, and welcoming environment for my clients. I view counseling through a trauma-informed lens since many individuals have been affected by trauma and adverse childhood experiences.
I especially enjoy counseling women who are dealing with women’s-related issues and grief.
Hi, I'm Dr. Anita Pool! Are you or your child struggling due to a transition, loss, or other life event? Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or in need of support? If so, I would love to help! Whether working with children or adults, I practice from a person-centered approach which relies heavily on the relationship between the client and counselor. As such, I see the counseling relationship as a critical element for change and work to create a warm, safe, and welcoming environment for my clients. I view counseling through a trauma-informed lens since many individuals have been affected by trauma and adverse childhood experiences.
(337) 329-8320 View (337) 329-8320
Photo of Cristin M Saffo, PsyD, Psychologist
Cristin M Saffo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Youngsville, LA 70592  (Online Only)
While I see patients dealing with a wide range of issues, my main areas of focus and specialty are loss and grief and life transitions, including working with college and graduate students.
Whatever challenges you may be facing, you don’t need to be alone in your journey. Together, we can work to help you develop the necessary tools and skills to make positive changes in your life. I’m a licensed psychologist with over 25 years’ experience helping people overcome their struggles, achieve their goals, and live a more fulfilling, meaningful, and authentic life. I believe in a collaborative and interactive approach to therapy, combining my years of training and experience with each patient’s unique strengths to work toward achieving therapy goals.
While I see patients dealing with a wide range of issues, my main areas of focus and specialty are loss and grief and life transitions, including working with college and graduate students.
Whatever challenges you may be facing, you don’t need to be alone in your journey. Together, we can work to help you develop the necessary tools and skills to make positive changes in your life. I’m a licensed psychologist with over 25 years’ experience helping people overcome their struggles, achieve their goals, and live a more fulfilling, meaningful, and authentic life. I believe in a collaborative and interactive approach to therapy, combining my years of training and experience with each patient’s unique strengths to work toward achieving therapy goals.
(337) 282-8419 View (337) 282-8419
Photo of Lillian Ferguson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lillian Ferguson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Youngsville, LA 70592
Scared, anxious, depressed, frustrated, stuck? Looking to deepen your relationships and resolve ongoing conflicts? Experiencing painful loss, a difficult transition, or trauma? I help shed light on unconscious motives, patterns and beliefs that are no longer serving you in order to allow healing and positive changes. Just as importantly, I focus on utilizing your strengths so they better support you in this process. I listen deeply and compassionately in a safe, relaxing setting, and always with positive regard.
Scared, anxious, depressed, frustrated, stuck? Looking to deepen your relationships and resolve ongoing conflicts? Experiencing painful loss, a difficult transition, or trauma? I help shed light on unconscious motives, patterns and beliefs that are no longer serving you in order to allow healing and positive changes. Just as importantly, I focus on utilizing your strengths so they better support you in this process. I listen deeply and compassionately in a safe, relaxing setting, and always with positive regard.
(337) 284-9227 View (337) 284-9227
Photo of Lauren Delahoussaye, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Delahoussaye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Youngsville, LA 70592
I am also able to provide therapy during grief and loss, relationship struggles, and managing anxiety.
You feel overwhelmed by life, you're trying to remember your old self, you're not sure how you're coping with what life has thrown at you. Something has to change and for some reason you're feeling stuck. You're feeling like this is your new identity and you're drowning. Now imagine liking yourself again and being kind and forgiving to yourself, even when you're not checking off all the items on that endless to-do list. I can help navigate these feelings and help you find peace within yourself. You don't have to continue feeling this way.
I am also able to provide therapy during grief and loss, relationship struggles, and managing anxiety.
You feel overwhelmed by life, you're trying to remember your old self, you're not sure how you're coping with what life has thrown at you. Something has to change and for some reason you're feeling stuck. You're feeling like this is your new identity and you're drowning. Now imagine liking yourself again and being kind and forgiving to yourself, even when you're not checking off all the items on that endless to-do list. I can help navigate these feelings and help you find peace within yourself. You don't have to continue feeling this way.
(337) 448-4405 View (337) 448-4405
Photo of Andrea Gary -Acadian Counseling Center, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Gary -Acadian Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Youngsville, LA 70592
Counseling is a place where you can come to feel heard, to share and work through what you are experiencing; past or present. These experiences can be related to family, relationships, work, grief, life changes and much more. I am here to offer you a safe place that ensures trust, safety and comfort without judgment and where you can grow. I bring to you over seven years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I am here to build a therapeutic relationship with you in order to face and work through these experiences and create a sense of clarity, strength, empowerment and new coping skills for life.
Counseling is a place where you can come to feel heard, to share and work through what you are experiencing; past or present. These experiences can be related to family, relationships, work, grief, life changes and much more. I am here to offer you a safe place that ensures trust, safety and comfort without judgment and where you can grow. I bring to you over seven years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I am here to build a therapeutic relationship with you in order to face and work through these experiences and create a sense of clarity, strength, empowerment and new coping skills for life.
(337) 202-8144 View (337) 202-8144
Photo of Jeane Carmichael, MA, LPC, NCC, CTP, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeane Carmichael
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Youngsville, LA 70592
Have you experienced traumatic events and no longer desire symptoms such as depression, grief, PTSD, anxiety, phobias, insomnia, disturbing memories, and panic attacks to control your life? Or maybe you and your spouse would like the help of a Christian counselor to improve your communication and conflict-resolution skills so you can enjoy a more satisfying marital relationship. If you fit in one of these scenarios and are serious about turning your life or relationships around for the better, I am here for you!
Have you experienced traumatic events and no longer desire symptoms such as depression, grief, PTSD, anxiety, phobias, insomnia, disturbing memories, and panic attacks to control your life? Or maybe you and your spouse would like the help of a Christian counselor to improve your communication and conflict-resolution skills so you can enjoy a more satisfying marital relationship. If you fit in one of these scenarios and are serious about turning your life or relationships around for the better, I am here for you!
(337) 202-8461 View (337) 202-8461
Photo of Jessica Leslie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Leslie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Youngsville, LA 70592  (Online Only)
My name is Jessica Leslie and I've been assisting all ages from newborns to centenarians for 18 years. I specialize in grief and bereavement, chronic disabilities, geriatrics, and adjustment. I have experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, ocd, and ptsd. I enjoy my profession and practice true presence with my clients. From a young age I was fascinated with discovering there are different modalities to help us cope. The mind, body, and spirit can heal at any time, at any age. Please join me in discovering your inner strengths. I will meet you where you are and guide you as far as you feel comfortable.
My name is Jessica Leslie and I've been assisting all ages from newborns to centenarians for 18 years. I specialize in grief and bereavement, chronic disabilities, geriatrics, and adjustment. I have experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, ocd, and ptsd. I enjoy my profession and practice true presence with my clients. From a young age I was fascinated with discovering there are different modalities to help us cope. The mind, body, and spirit can heal at any time, at any age. Please join me in discovering your inner strengths. I will meet you where you are and guide you as far as you feel comfortable.
(337) 455-7952 View (337) 455-7952
Photo of Sandy Baker- Abundant Life Mental Health Llc, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandy Baker- Abundant Life Mental Health Llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Youngsville, LA 70592  (Online Only)
I utilize an integrative therapeutic approach to help adolescents and adults to cope with the effects of trauma, grief and loss, explore identity issues, respond to life transitions, develop healthy relationships, goal setting and create an effective plan for self-care.
Are you feeling stuck or complacent in life? Are you in constant fear of failure, worrying about things to come and things out of your control? Some days you may feel like you’re paralyzed by the challenges you face. You might often wonder how you have made it from one day to the next, that is what I call surviving. Based on your experience, I think you realize how difficult and exhausting it can be to feel like you’re just surviving, I believe you are here because you are ready to shift in your life from surviving to thriving. Are you ready to do the work that will gain you a life of abundance?
I utilize an integrative therapeutic approach to help adolescents and adults to cope with the effects of trauma, grief and loss, explore identity issues, respond to life transitions, develop healthy relationships, goal setting and create an effective plan for self-care.
Are you feeling stuck or complacent in life? Are you in constant fear of failure, worrying about things to come and things out of your control? Some days you may feel like you’re paralyzed by the challenges you face. You might often wonder how you have made it from one day to the next, that is what I call surviving. Based on your experience, I think you realize how difficult and exhausting it can be to feel like you’re just surviving, I believe you are here because you are ready to shift in your life from surviving to thriving. Are you ready to do the work that will gain you a life of abundance?
(337) 243-1430 View (337) 243-1430
Photo of Jill Yeates - Jill Yeates - Pivot Counseling, MSW, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Yeates - Pivot Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Youngsville, LA 70592
Welcome, I'm glad you're here. At Pivot Counseling, LLC, I strive to create an environment that fosters growth and change. My work with you will encompass the biological, emotional, relational and spiritual aspects of mental health. I will approach the complexities of these factors in your life with both compassion and respect. I specialize in anxiety, trauma, addiction, and grief. However, my practice is open to everyone, regardless of your specific challenges. I warmly welcome all individuals seeking support and guidance.
Welcome, I'm glad you're here. At Pivot Counseling, LLC, I strive to create an environment that fosters growth and change. My work with you will encompass the biological, emotional, relational and spiritual aspects of mental health. I will approach the complexities of these factors in your life with both compassion and respect. I specialize in anxiety, trauma, addiction, and grief. However, my practice is open to everyone, regardless of your specific challenges. I warmly welcome all individuals seeking support and guidance.
(337) 221-9164 View (337) 221-9164
Photo of Mandy A McCoy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mandy A McCoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Youngsville, LA 70592
Hi, I’m Mandy, a licensed clinical social worker and certified clinical trauma professional. I treat a variety of issues related to substance abuse, trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and relationships.
Hi, I’m Mandy, a licensed clinical social worker and certified clinical trauma professional. I treat a variety of issues related to substance abuse, trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and relationships.
(337) 273-0603 View (337) 273-0603
Photo of James E Reaux 'jimmy', MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
James E Reaux 'jimmy'
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Youngsville, LA 70592
I am experienced at a variety of life issues including anxiety, sadness and depression, grief, trauma, relationship and communication, parent-child issues, transitional and work related problems, among others.
Everyone has the capacity to make changes in their lives to promote healing and peace. The therapist role is to foster and guide that process by offering alternative outlooks on life circumstances, and identify individual strengths to promote positive behavioral changes and ways of thinking. These changes come through the development of a sincere, honest relationship between client and therapist. I am non-judgemental and dedicated to every person who comes to me for help. I believe that each of us is resilient with the ability to overcome any of lifes obstacles.
I am experienced at a variety of life issues including anxiety, sadness and depression, grief, trauma, relationship and communication, parent-child issues, transitional and work related problems, among others.
Everyone has the capacity to make changes in their lives to promote healing and peace. The therapist role is to foster and guide that process by offering alternative outlooks on life circumstances, and identify individual strengths to promote positive behavioral changes and ways of thinking. These changes come through the development of a sincere, honest relationship between client and therapist. I am non-judgemental and dedicated to every person who comes to me for help. I believe that each of us is resilient with the ability to overcome any of lifes obstacles.
(337) 205-2590 View (337) 205-2590
Photo of Diane Dodt, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diane Dodt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Youngsville, LA 70592
Have you identified as a people pleaser? Do you lack self-worth? Are you seeking joy? Do you have a strong Inner Critic? I am here to help you get to the core of your difficulties, develop a deep understanding of yourself and provide the skills you need experience freedom and live in a way you have never felt before. Whether you are experiencing a deep sense of sadness, excess worry, grieving a loss, anger, difficulties with coworkers, family/friends, going through a life changing event OR you simply can't define how you feel, I can help you. I have skills I can teach you to get relief from your suffering.
Have you identified as a people pleaser? Do you lack self-worth? Are you seeking joy? Do you have a strong Inner Critic? I am here to help you get to the core of your difficulties, develop a deep understanding of yourself and provide the skills you need experience freedom and live in a way you have never felt before. Whether you are experiencing a deep sense of sadness, excess worry, grieving a loss, anger, difficulties with coworkers, family/friends, going through a life changing event OR you simply can't define how you feel, I can help you. I have skills I can teach you to get relief from your suffering.
(337) 508-0044 View (337) 508-0044
Photo of Tamra Griffin- The Well, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamra Griffin- The Well
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Youngsville, LA 70592
I specialize in helping individuals overcome depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, life transitions, perfectionism, spiritual issues, disordered eating patterns, trauma, grief, and relationship issues.
Would you like to stop judging yourself according to what somebody else might think? I am here to help in your journey towards ending depression, increasing confidence, and living a more fulfilling life. Your worth is a given. Nothing can take that away. Whether you are dealing with everyday life challenges, decisions, or transitions-you will be empowered to make the right move for you. As a trained Anthetic therapist, I share the gift of Inner Freedom with my clients. This therapeutic approach involves identifying goals and overcoming blocks in order to experience personal power & create a more satisfying life.
I specialize in helping individuals overcome depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, life transitions, perfectionism, spiritual issues, disordered eating patterns, trauma, grief, and relationship issues.
Would you like to stop judging yourself according to what somebody else might think? I am here to help in your journey towards ending depression, increasing confidence, and living a more fulfilling life. Your worth is a given. Nothing can take that away. Whether you are dealing with everyday life challenges, decisions, or transitions-you will be empowered to make the right move for you. As a trained Anthetic therapist, I share the gift of Inner Freedom with my clients. This therapeutic approach involves identifying goals and overcoming blocks in order to experience personal power & create a more satisfying life.
(337) 451-2279 View (337) 451-2279
Photo of Bess Ewing, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bess Ewing
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Youngsville, LA 70592
Life can be tough but you don't have to do it alone! Hi my name is Bess and I am a PLPC in Louisiana. I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults/adults to help build confidence and self-esteem by exploring your past and present while preparing for your future. I believe the client is the expert on their own life and I am here to walk along side them on their journey. I have experience working with trauma, adjustment/life transition, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, boundary issues, suicidal ideation, grief, and more. I am known to have a laid back, comforting and kind but direct approach and also enjoy joking around at times
Life can be tough but you don't have to do it alone! Hi my name is Bess and I am a PLPC in Louisiana. I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults/adults to help build confidence and self-esteem by exploring your past and present while preparing for your future. I believe the client is the expert on their own life and I am here to walk along side them on their journey. I have experience working with trauma, adjustment/life transition, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, boundary issues, suicidal ideation, grief, and more. I am known to have a laid back, comforting and kind but direct approach and also enjoy joking around at times
(337) 419-3993 View (337) 419-3993
Photo of Lisa Landry Headspace Counseling And Recovery, Lisa Landry, MS, PLPC, LAC
Lisa Landry Headspace Counseling And Recovery
Lisa Landry, MS, PLPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Youngsville, LA 70592
I strive to help people overcome trauma, codependency, habitual behaviors, addiction, communication issues, self-esteem, grief, & boundaries.
If your goal is to face & tackle challenging life circumstances head-on in order to lead a happier, more fulfilling life, then I’d be honored to work with you. As your counselor, I strive to help you feel welcome & accept you without judgment. As a therapist, I balance being supportive, kind, & caring with being direct & goal-oriented. I specialize in helping people that have been impacted by addiction. Not only do I have professional experience with being a Licensed Addiction Counselor, I also bring my personalized experiences with these issues. I also very much enjoy helping couples learn how to love in the best ways possible.
I strive to help people overcome trauma, codependency, habitual behaviors, addiction, communication issues, self-esteem, grief, & boundaries.
If your goal is to face & tackle challenging life circumstances head-on in order to lead a happier, more fulfilling life, then I’d be honored to work with you. As your counselor, I strive to help you feel welcome & accept you without judgment. As a therapist, I balance being supportive, kind, & caring with being direct & goal-oriented. I specialize in helping people that have been impacted by addiction. Not only do I have professional experience with being a Licensed Addiction Counselor, I also bring my personalized experiences with these issues. I also very much enjoy helping couples learn how to love in the best ways possible.
(337) 409-8287 View (337) 409-8287
Photo of Hilari Rashel Mestayer, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hilari Rashel Mestayer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Youngsville, LA 70592
I champion you to b lossom into your natural self! .
How do you envision your life? Would you like to experience more pleasure and less suffering? Perhaps you want to accept yourself unconditionally and feel more empowered to live from your natural self? Would you like to understand what is causing problems in your life at a deeper level? Would you like to be more in touch with your feelings and the behaviors associated with those feelings? Do you want to be less self-critical and break free from self-imposed limitations? Do you view pain and suffering as not useful to your life? If this speaks to your soul, then yours is a journey to claiming your inner freedom and I cheer you on!
I champion you to b lossom into your natural self! .
How do you envision your life? Would you like to experience more pleasure and less suffering? Perhaps you want to accept yourself unconditionally and feel more empowered to live from your natural self? Would you like to understand what is causing problems in your life at a deeper level? Would you like to be more in touch with your feelings and the behaviors associated with those feelings? Do you want to be less self-critical and break free from self-imposed limitations? Do you view pain and suffering as not useful to your life? If this speaks to your soul, then yours is a journey to claiming your inner freedom and I cheer you on!
(337) 202-2491 View (337) 202-2491
Photo of Catrina Broussard, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catrina Broussard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Youngsville, LA 70592
I have experience in a variety of mental health concerns but have a particular interest in working with trauma, grief (infant - personal experience), and addiction.
I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated for change. Individuals who may not know where to start or what they might need. We tend to live in a very fast paced world where we seldom take the time to stop and process the day to day life experiences whether good or bad. I hope to help you process the day to day stuff so you can live life to its fullest! I also have a special interest in working with first responders and have specialized peer to peer training and experience.
I have experience in a variety of mental health concerns but have a particular interest in working with trauma, grief (infant - personal experience), and addiction.
I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated for change. Individuals who may not know where to start or what they might need. We tend to live in a very fast paced world where we seldom take the time to stop and process the day to day life experiences whether good or bad. I hope to help you process the day to day stuff so you can live life to its fullest! I also have a special interest in working with first responders and have specialized peer to peer training and experience.
(337) 340-9114 View (337) 340-9114
Photo of Zachary Smith, PLPC
Zachary Smith
PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Youngsville, LA 70592
Hey there! I'm Zachary. My passion is helping people develop meaningful and intentional lives. I see all kinds of clients: from individuals struggling with social anxiety, grief, family conflict, or religious trauma, to couples struggling with communication, old wounds, and life transitions (and much more)! My clients appreciate that I am gentle and compassionate, but also honest and direct. My goal is to help you identify problems and patterns, help you adapt to your world in a flexible and open way, and explore with you the deepest parts of your self and the way you see the world.
Hey there! I'm Zachary. My passion is helping people develop meaningful and intentional lives. I see all kinds of clients: from individuals struggling with social anxiety, grief, family conflict, or religious trauma, to couples struggling with communication, old wounds, and life transitions (and much more)! My clients appreciate that I am gentle and compassionate, but also honest and direct. My goal is to help you identify problems and patterns, help you adapt to your world in a flexible and open way, and explore with you the deepest parts of your self and the way you see the world.
(337) 366-1160 View (337) 366-1160
Photo of Rachel Geiger, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Geiger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Youngsville, LA 70592
Waitlist for new clients
If you are looking for someone to help your child or teen process thoughts and emotions, and cope with life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma, give me a call.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and creative, rooted in an appreciation and respect for each human being that chooses to work with me as they move towards greater wholeness in their lives. I see my role as offering support and guidance to help each person in their own unique process of growth and healing. I offer training in various skills that may be useful in the process, depending on the client’s individual needs. My approach is trauma-informed and rooted in cognitive skill building, mindfulness, expressive arts therapies, play therapy, systems theory, and somatic therapy.
If you are looking for someone to help your child or teen process thoughts and emotions, and cope with life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma, give me a call.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and creative, rooted in an appreciation and respect for each human being that chooses to work with me as they move towards greater wholeness in their lives. I see my role as offering support and guidance to help each person in their own unique process of growth and healing. I offer training in various skills that may be useful in the process, depending on the client’s individual needs. My approach is trauma-informed and rooted in cognitive skill building, mindfulness, expressive arts therapies, play therapy, systems theory, and somatic therapy.
(717) 910-3512 View (717) 910-3512
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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.