Grief Therapists in Colesville, MD

Photo of Rachel Ama Kwadu, LGPC, Counselor
Rachel Ama Kwadu
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Colesville, MD 20904  (Online Only)
Maternal and reproductive health, shame, grief, avoidance, sadness, overwhelm, flashbacks, relationship issues, transitions, worry, career work stress, sadness, immigrant identities, self-doubt and trauma are my expertise. We'll process the psychological stress caused by interactions with people, places and systems that are demeaning, hostile, dismissive and insensitive. My clients are able to improve or better manage distress tolerance; communication and relationships; ​assertiveness and autonomy; address family-of-origin challenges; life transitions; trauma and more. I diagnose and treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD and more.
Maternal and reproductive health, shame, grief, avoidance, sadness, overwhelm, flashbacks, relationship issues, transitions, worry, career work stress, sadness, immigrant identities, self-doubt and trauma are my expertise. We'll process the psychological stress caused by interactions with people, places and systems that are demeaning, hostile, dismissive and insensitive. My clients are able to improve or better manage distress tolerance; communication and relationships; ​assertiveness and autonomy; address family-of-origin challenges; life transitions; trauma and more. I diagnose and treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD and more.
(240) 213-9208 View (240) 213-9208
Photo of Aree Bartine, MA, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aree Bartine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Colesville, MD 20904  (Online Only)
Experiencing a heavy heart of pain from a small or sizeable traumatic experience can keep one from receiving a life of joy. So many times, we desire to lay that burden down, but we are unsure how to free ourselves from the hurt. Hope is available. There is a process that can help anyone ready for a change. My clients say they experience me as non-judgmental and caring while they process their painful places. I have a way of understanding and helping them to find answers to their hurts in an environment where they feel safe, so they can bring their concerns into a therapy session and gain healing.
Experiencing a heavy heart of pain from a small or sizeable traumatic experience can keep one from receiving a life of joy. So many times, we desire to lay that burden down, but we are unsure how to free ourselves from the hurt. Hope is available. There is a process that can help anyone ready for a change. My clients say they experience me as non-judgmental and caring while they process their painful places. I have a way of understanding and helping them to find answers to their hurts in an environment where they feel safe, so they can bring their concerns into a therapy session and gain healing.
(301) 685-0571 View (301) 685-0571
Photo of Kevin Morton, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin Morton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colesville, MD 20905
Kevin Morton's professional journey began with four years of dedicated service in the Marine Corps, starting in 1981. After his military service, he returned to the Washington DC area and pursued a Master's degree in social work, graduating in 1996. Since then, Kevin has accumulated a diverse range of experience working with various populations, including: Parents seeking support, Couples, Veterans and Active military reintegration and relationship. Kevin's passion for helping others and making a positive impact in his community has driven his career in the mental health field and as a psychotherapist.
Kevin Morton's professional journey began with four years of dedicated service in the Marine Corps, starting in 1981. After his military service, he returned to the Washington DC area and pursued a Master's degree in social work, graduating in 1996. Since then, Kevin has accumulated a diverse range of experience working with various populations, including: Parents seeking support, Couples, Veterans and Active military reintegration and relationship. Kevin's passion for helping others and making a positive impact in his community has driven his career in the mental health field and as a psychotherapist.
(240) 339-6772 View (240) 339-6772

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christina Chacko, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Chacko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Burtonsville, MD 20866
Life happens to all of us; stressors are inevitable, unresolved feelings may arise and it can all be just a little bit overwhelming. Despite our best efforts we may find ourselves overly stressed, alone, anxious, or just tired. Whether it’s dealing with a transition, a loss, a tragedy, a relationship, or just the daily highs and lows, we all deserve a place to decompress and process what life throws at us. Maybe this is a tough season for you, or maybe you just need support as you work on your goals. Therapy should act as both a safe space filled with warmth and compassion, and a brave space that challenges and empowers.
Life happens to all of us; stressors are inevitable, unresolved feelings may arise and it can all be just a little bit overwhelming. Despite our best efforts we may find ourselves overly stressed, alone, anxious, or just tired. Whether it’s dealing with a transition, a loss, a tragedy, a relationship, or just the daily highs and lows, we all deserve a place to decompress and process what life throws at us. Maybe this is a tough season for you, or maybe you just need support as you work on your goals. Therapy should act as both a safe space filled with warmth and compassion, and a brave space that challenges and empowers.
(301) 804-2436 View (301) 804-2436
Photo of Dr. Renee Hicks, PhD, LCPC, Counselor
Dr. Renee Hicks
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20904
Dr. Renee has several years of clinical experience across various therapeutic environments including private practice, community-based systems, and structured outpatient programs. With a passionate dedication to her craft, Dr. Renee specializes in serving clients in the following areas: Women’s Issues, Crisis Intervention, Trauma and Abuse, Chronic Mental Illness, Grief Management, Relationship/Couples, Anxiety, Group Psychotherapy, Depression, and Assessments. She assists her clients in processing their losses, overcoming trauma, and finding renewed strength and resilience.
Dr. Renee has several years of clinical experience across various therapeutic environments including private practice, community-based systems, and structured outpatient programs. With a passionate dedication to her craft, Dr. Renee specializes in serving clients in the following areas: Women’s Issues, Crisis Intervention, Trauma and Abuse, Chronic Mental Illness, Grief Management, Relationship/Couples, Anxiety, Group Psychotherapy, Depression, and Assessments. She assists her clients in processing their losses, overcoming trauma, and finding renewed strength and resilience.
(443) 785-4202 View (443) 785-4202
Photo of Adrienne Londeree, LCSW-C, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrienne Londeree
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20904  (Online Only)
Women face many difficulties on their journey to motherhood. The most common difficulties are difficulties conceiving, stress preparing for the arrival of the baby, a birth experience that did not go the way they expected, and overwhelmed once the baby is here. My clients have a variety of perinatal experiences; struggles with emotions during pregnancy, postpartum as well miscarriage and infant loss. If you have lost your baby, it is a very difficult time; a loss of hopes and dreams and grieving in a world that does not have rituals or ways to respond to you.
Women face many difficulties on their journey to motherhood. The most common difficulties are difficulties conceiving, stress preparing for the arrival of the baby, a birth experience that did not go the way they expected, and overwhelmed once the baby is here. My clients have a variety of perinatal experiences; struggles with emotions during pregnancy, postpartum as well miscarriage and infant loss. If you have lost your baby, it is a very difficult time; a loss of hopes and dreams and grieving in a world that does not have rituals or ways to respond to you.
(301) 679-3164 View (301) 679-3164
Photo of Sarah Sullivan, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20904  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults and teens who are experiencing grief, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and addiction. I draw on various evidence-based practices in my work, and also believe in the healing power of nature, art, spirituality, books, routines and rituals, movement, alignment with core values, humor, infinite curiosity, a warm and nonjudgemental therapeutic relationship, and my clients’ innate wisdom and strengths. I also believe we are shaped by our environments, and work with clients on identifying sources of support and healing in their environments, as well as ways they have been impacted by harmful systems.
I specialize in working with adults and teens who are experiencing grief, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and addiction. I draw on various evidence-based practices in my work, and also believe in the healing power of nature, art, spirituality, books, routines and rituals, movement, alignment with core values, humor, infinite curiosity, a warm and nonjudgemental therapeutic relationship, and my clients’ innate wisdom and strengths. I also believe we are shaped by our environments, and work with clients on identifying sources of support and healing in their environments, as well as ways they have been impacted by harmful systems.
(443) 731-2528 View (443) 731-2528
Photo of Tonya M Logan, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tonya M Logan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20904  (Online Only)
Additionally, she is a clinician providing counseling to individuals and couples and on the Advisory Board of the Center for Infant and Child Loss.
Tonya M. Logan, LICSW, LCSW-C, has over 30 years of professional clinical experience working with those managing conflict and trauma. A native Washingtonian, she received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Virginia and her master’s degree in social work from the University of Maryland at Baltimore. Ms. Logan spent the bulk of her career, in D.C. and Maryland, working with biological and foster parents by securing permanency via reunification, adoption, or independent living.
Additionally, she is a clinician providing counseling to individuals and couples and on the Advisory Board of the Center for Infant and Child Loss.
Tonya M. Logan, LICSW, LCSW-C, has over 30 years of professional clinical experience working with those managing conflict and trauma. A native Washingtonian, she received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Virginia and her master’s degree in social work from the University of Maryland at Baltimore. Ms. Logan spent the bulk of her career, in D.C. and Maryland, working with biological and foster parents by securing permanency via reunification, adoption, or independent living.
(410) 204-2042 View (410) 204-2042
Photo of Donna Mason Mitchell - Wellspring Restorative Therapy Services, LLC, LCPC, MBA, GC-C, Supervi
Wellspring Restorative Therapy Services, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MBA, GC-C, Supervi
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20904  (Online Only)
We can assist clients with healing based on trauma (including childhood, sexual, PTSD), grief, and other mental health issues through a holistic approach of treating mind, body and spirit. We help children, Adolescents and Adults with Anxiety Disorders, Bi-Polar Disorders, Conduct/Disruptive/Impulse-Control Disorders Depressive Disorders, Eating and Feeding Disorders, Death and Survivor Grief, Mood Disorders, and Trauma Disorders.
We can assist clients with healing based on trauma (including childhood, sexual, PTSD), grief, and other mental health issues through a holistic approach of treating mind, body and spirit. We help children, Adolescents and Adults with Anxiety Disorders, Bi-Polar Disorders, Conduct/Disruptive/Impulse-Control Disorders Depressive Disorders, Eating and Feeding Disorders, Death and Survivor Grief, Mood Disorders, and Trauma Disorders.
(240) 453-4723 View (240) 453-4723
Photo of Shilpa Saroop - Therapy with Empathy, LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Therapy with Empathy, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I am an Associate Professor in the Women's Mental Health Program at Georgetown University, School of Medicine and have a speciality in perinatal mood & anxiety disorders, grief/loss, parenting and assisting parents who have or have had a baby in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
Do you ever wonder if it is possible to experience more enjoyment or peace of mind and heart? I work with clients to identify sources of worry, unhappiness or self-criticism. Together we identify one's strengths and build on those strengths in a positive, supportive way to create a life one would like to live and experience. I employ strategies from family systems, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, self-compassion, psychodynamic and mindfulness models in my practice. I work with individuals, couples, families and first and second generation immigrants in a collaborative and compassionate manner.
I am an Associate Professor in the Women's Mental Health Program at Georgetown University, School of Medicine and have a speciality in perinatal mood & anxiety disorders, grief/loss, parenting and assisting parents who have or have had a baby in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
Do you ever wonder if it is possible to experience more enjoyment or peace of mind and heart? I work with clients to identify sources of worry, unhappiness or self-criticism. Together we identify one's strengths and build on those strengths in a positive, supportive way to create a life one would like to live and experience. I employ strategies from family systems, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, self-compassion, psychodynamic and mindfulness models in my practice. I work with individuals, couples, families and first and second generation immigrants in a collaborative and compassionate manner.
(301) 812-4725 View (301) 812-4725
Photo of Evelyn Goldstein, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evelyn Goldstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20904
As a former hospice social worker, I have extensive experience in working with medical struggles, bereavement, family dynamics and struggles connected to caregiving, aging, dementia and chronic illness.
I offer short term, brief therapy to support individuals, couples and families in moving forward in some way. Brief therapy typically focuses on solutions rather than problems. The aim is to emphasize strengths and to work collaboratively to figure out alternatives for what the future might look like. I strive to offer a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental environment that allows clients to feel safe to genuinely express themselves and consider new possibilities.
As a former hospice social worker, I have extensive experience in working with medical struggles, bereavement, family dynamics and struggles connected to caregiving, aging, dementia and chronic illness.
I offer short term, brief therapy to support individuals, couples and families in moving forward in some way. Brief therapy typically focuses on solutions rather than problems. The aim is to emphasize strengths and to work collaboratively to figure out alternatives for what the future might look like. I strive to offer a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental environment that allows clients to feel safe to genuinely express themselves and consider new possibilities.
(301) 637-7583 View (301) 637-7583
Photo of Ashley Henley, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Henley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20905  (Online Only)
I use empathetic listening to understand your concerns and apply Cognitive Behavioral techniques, narrative therapy, interpersonal therapy, grief and loss support, and trauma processing to offer support and techniques to manage mood and life challenges.
I’m so happy you came across my profile and I am excited at the chance to walk in this journey to mental wellness with you! Whether you’ve been in therapy before and are looking for a fresh perspective, or are taking a leap and seeking support for the first time, we are going to do great work together! As a licensed therapist for more than 10 years, I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples in urban areas and with diverse cultural backgrounds.
I use empathetic listening to understand your concerns and apply Cognitive Behavioral techniques, narrative therapy, interpersonal therapy, grief and loss support, and trauma processing to offer support and techniques to manage mood and life challenges.
I’m so happy you came across my profile and I am excited at the chance to walk in this journey to mental wellness with you! Whether you’ve been in therapy before and are looking for a fresh perspective, or are taking a leap and seeking support for the first time, we are going to do great work together! As a licensed therapist for more than 10 years, I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples in urban areas and with diverse cultural backgrounds.
(919) 849-3546 View (919) 849-3546
Photo of Paul E Ruffer, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul E Ruffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20902
I work with individuals, couples, and families, focusing on relationship building, conflict and anger management, and coping with grief and loss. I help couples create a safe and nurturing bond that allows them to become close again and heal. No matter the issue that brings a couple, individual, or family into my office, they will all be learning a new way to look at relationship and be introduced to a toolkit of skills essential to staying in conversation and connection.
I work with individuals, couples, and families, focusing on relationship building, conflict and anger management, and coping with grief and loss. I help couples create a safe and nurturing bond that allows them to become close again and heal. No matter the issue that brings a couple, individual, or family into my office, they will all be learning a new way to look at relationship and be introduced to a toolkit of skills essential to staying in conversation and connection.
(202) 759-2307 View (202) 759-2307
Photo of Kathleen Landers - Sequence Counseling & Consulting Services, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sequence Counseling & Consulting Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20904
How does anyone choose a therapist? The variety of options are daunting, and while many, many people have been to or go to a therapist, it is not a topic easily discussed, so it can be hard to find a recommendation. Many people resort to picking the person whose face looked nice, or went to a school they recognize, or work in a convenient location or accept their insurance. Often these techniques are sufficient, but when they are not it is a great loss, as it takes so much courage to look for a therapist in the first place.
How does anyone choose a therapist? The variety of options are daunting, and while many, many people have been to or go to a therapist, it is not a topic easily discussed, so it can be hard to find a recommendation. Many people resort to picking the person whose face looked nice, or went to a school they recognize, or work in a convenient location or accept their insurance. Often these techniques are sufficient, but when they are not it is a great loss, as it takes so much courage to look for a therapist in the first place.
(240) 428-2646 View (240) 428-2646
Photo of Shelley Driskell, LPC
Shelley Driskell
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20904  (Online Only)
Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult life transitions, substance abuse issues or grief, I offer a safe, non-judgmental place to feel supported and work through these things.
Hello, I’m Shelley. Life is a beautiful journey. However, at times we all face challenges that seem insurmountable, which can cause us to feel isolated, alone, and powerless. “Feelings are messages from our soul – negative ones are a sign that something needs addressing. Not out there – but inside of us.” Unknown. We all have the resources within us to heal ourselves. Sometimes we just need assistance identifying them and a safe place to find the courage to utilize them.
Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult life transitions, substance abuse issues or grief, I offer a safe, non-judgmental place to feel supported and work through these things.
Hello, I’m Shelley. Life is a beautiful journey. However, at times we all face challenges that seem insurmountable, which can cause us to feel isolated, alone, and powerless. “Feelings are messages from our soul – negative ones are a sign that something needs addressing. Not out there – but inside of us.” Unknown. We all have the resources within us to heal ourselves. Sometimes we just need assistance identifying them and a safe place to find the courage to utilize them.
(301) 381-3928 View (301) 381-3928
Photo of Genevieve Yirenkyi - GY Counseling, LLC, PhD, Psychologist
GY Counseling, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20904  (Online Only)
IMMEDIATE sessions available. Please visit: www.gycounseling.com to request an appointment. GY COUNSELING, LLC is a thriving mental health group private practice that is owned by a Black woman Psychologist. We work with diverse clientele who are in the mist of grief/loss, life transitions, and emotional challenges, to achieve a more effective and healthier outlook on your life. We establish rapport and utilize the therapeutic relationship to promote the change process. With compassion and understanding, we work with individuals to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.
IMMEDIATE sessions available. Please visit: www.gycounseling.com to request an appointment. GY COUNSELING, LLC is a thriving mental health group private practice that is owned by a Black woman Psychologist. We work with diverse clientele who are in the mist of grief/loss, life transitions, and emotional challenges, to achieve a more effective and healthier outlook on your life. We establish rapport and utilize the therapeutic relationship to promote the change process. With compassion and understanding, we work with individuals to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.
(301) 710-9706 View (301) 710-9706
Photo of Katie Culbertson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Culbertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20904
I have experience working with clients to address relational or family concerns, anxiety, depression, loss, stress, and adjustment/transition concerns.
My focus in therapy is to meet clients where they are and help them get to where they want to be. I believe this begins with providing a supportive and trusting relationship where clients feel comfortable to share and explore their experiences. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to help them navigate through challenges and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their strengths.
I have experience working with clients to address relational or family concerns, anxiety, depression, loss, stress, and adjustment/transition concerns.
My focus in therapy is to meet clients where they are and help them get to where they want to be. I believe this begins with providing a supportive and trusting relationship where clients feel comfortable to share and explore their experiences. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to help them navigate through challenges and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their strengths.
(301) 349-1631 View (301) 349-1631
Photo of Kavita Shanbhag, MS, LCPC
Kavita Shanbhag
MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20904  (Online Only)
My specialty is in the area of grief and loss and involves clients who have lost a parent, grandparent, or friend through natural or unnatural causes. I provided a safe space for clients to integrate their losses into their lives by helping them find meaning in their world that has drastically changed as well as manage a mixture of emotions that impact them. I am a certified Grief Educator and trained under a well-known Grief Expert, David Kessler. I also help anxious clients discover a sense of control, serenity, and relief from what they perceive as chaos. The tailored strategies I provide will help you lower anxiety's voice.
My specialty is in the area of grief and loss and involves clients who have lost a parent, grandparent, or friend through natural or unnatural causes. I provided a safe space for clients to integrate their losses into their lives by helping them find meaning in their world that has drastically changed as well as manage a mixture of emotions that impact them. I am a certified Grief Educator and trained under a well-known Grief Expert, David Kessler. I also help anxious clients discover a sense of control, serenity, and relief from what they perceive as chaos. The tailored strategies I provide will help you lower anxiety's voice.
(301) 450-8852 View (301) 450-8852
Photo of Doha Chibani, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Doha Chibani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20904  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in helping support blended families and those experiencing the grief of childlessness after infertility.
As your counselor my goal is to serve as your guide while you navigate through life's transitions. My goal is to guide you unpack the barriers that hinder you from reaching your potential. I tailor treatment to meet your needs and will work collaboratively with you to move forward. I have experience working with clients from all backgrounds and experiences and I specialize in working with the LGB, Trans and Non binary community, racial and ethnic minority identity exploration. I have experience helping heal the trauma experienced by refugees, asylees and immigrants, and from childhood abuse.
I have specialized training in helping support blended families and those experiencing the grief of childlessness after infertility.
As your counselor my goal is to serve as your guide while you navigate through life's transitions. My goal is to guide you unpack the barriers that hinder you from reaching your potential. I tailor treatment to meet your needs and will work collaboratively with you to move forward. I have experience working with clients from all backgrounds and experiences and I specialize in working with the LGB, Trans and Non binary community, racial and ethnic minority identity exploration. I have experience helping heal the trauma experienced by refugees, asylees and immigrants, and from childhood abuse.
(301) 478-8859 View (301) 478-8859
Photo of Tenneh Johnson Kemah, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tenneh Johnson Kemah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20904
When you are looking for a therapist, that decision often comes during times of crisis. This loss of balance and connection makes it hard to make decisions or trust anyone. But as you take this first step, I will honor your trust with a relationship that is free of judgement and focused on finding your foundation. Whether you are coping with trauma, depression, stress, anxiety, life transition, relationship or marital issues, we can work together to make things better. I bring to the table a deep knowledge of a diverse set of treatment methods that allow me to tailor your therapy uniquely to your personality, challenges and life.
When you are looking for a therapist, that decision often comes during times of crisis. This loss of balance and connection makes it hard to make decisions or trust anyone. But as you take this first step, I will honor your trust with a relationship that is free of judgement and focused on finding your foundation. Whether you are coping with trauma, depression, stress, anxiety, life transition, relationship or marital issues, we can work together to make things better. I bring to the table a deep knowledge of a diverse set of treatment methods that allow me to tailor your therapy uniquely to your personality, challenges and life.
(667) 200-0575 View (667) 200-0575

See more therapy options for Colesville

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.