Photo of Donica Harper, MA, LCPC-S
Donica Harper
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Randallstown, MD 21133
Are you feeling invisible? Angry about a breakup? Have you recently experienced a loss/death? Do you feel misunderstood? Are you experiencing more pain, burnout, and/or fatigue than normal? Does your adolescent need extra support? Is your family/relationship falling apart? If your answer to any of these questions is "Yes," or even if you have questions of your own, it may be time to reach out and talk through those thoughts and feelings. I would be delighted to be the person you reach out to.
Are you feeling invisible? Angry about a breakup? Have you recently experienced a loss/death? Do you feel misunderstood? Are you experiencing more pain, burnout, and/or fatigue than normal? Does your adolescent need extra support? Is your family/relationship falling apart? If your answer to any of these questions is "Yes," or even if you have questions of your own, it may be time to reach out and talk through those thoughts and feelings. I would be delighted to be the person you reach out to.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Joanne M Boyle - Boyle Counseling Services, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Boyle Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
I also specialize in grief/loss therapy, healing trauma, and individual psychotherapy.
Hello and welcome to Boyle Counseling Services! Life brings many challenges and sometimes we need outside guidance and support. I have over 20 years of clinical experience helping couples and individuals navigate those challenges. My clients have described me as warm, insightful, easy to connect with, and caring. My specialty is in couple’s work, where you will find a non-judgmental, explorative approach to help clarify challenges and master the tools to navigate your own, unique dynamic.
I also specialize in grief/loss therapy, healing trauma, and individual psychotherapy.
Hello and welcome to Boyle Counseling Services! Life brings many challenges and sometimes we need outside guidance and support. I have over 20 years of clinical experience helping couples and individuals navigate those challenges. My clients have described me as warm, insightful, easy to connect with, and caring. My specialty is in couple’s work, where you will find a non-judgmental, explorative approach to help clarify challenges and master the tools to navigate your own, unique dynamic.
(410) 449-7847 View (410) 449-7847
Photo of Abbey Peko-Spicer, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abbey Peko-Spicer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21212  (Online Only)
I offer support to adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders, and especially enjoy supporting clients navigating life transitions, grief and loss.
We all have the capacity for growth and change, and the pain we carry usually develops from unhelpful stories that we've learned to tell ourselves over time. These stories - which we often learn through the systems we operate within - can impact the way we move, respond and connect, and can sometimes keep us stuck. I think we can grow by understanding how our stories started, by noticing the powerful information that our bodies give us about our emotional pain, and by working to unravel and re-craft our stories in a way that leaves us feeling more empowered, flexible, and whole.
I offer support to adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders, and especially enjoy supporting clients navigating life transitions, grief and loss.
We all have the capacity for growth and change, and the pain we carry usually develops from unhelpful stories that we've learned to tell ourselves over time. These stories - which we often learn through the systems we operate within - can impact the way we move, respond and connect, and can sometimes keep us stuck. I think we can grow by understanding how our stories started, by noticing the powerful information that our bodies give us about our emotional pain, and by working to unravel and re-craft our stories in a way that leaves us feeling more empowered, flexible, and whole.
(410) 264-1579 View (410) 264-1579
Photo of Marilyn Murphy, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marilyn Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* Therapy is a highly personal and emotional experience. My experience includes working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, isolation, substance use, grief, loss, abuse, neglect, trauma, low self-esteem, life transitions, gender issues, relationship and/or family issues.
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* Therapy is a highly personal and emotional experience. My experience includes working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, isolation, substance use, grief, loss, abuse, neglect, trauma, low self-esteem, life transitions, gender issues, relationship and/or family issues.
(443) 464-2784 View (443) 464-2784
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
Catonsville, MD 21228  (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 Jared Serrano Louie, LGPC, Counselor
Jared Serrano Louie
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
I offer individuals and couples the ability to work together to reduce tension, understand communication patterns, explore "stuck" feelings, improve depression/anxiety, and resolve the weight of grief and loss symptoms.
As a queer clinician my practice is rooted in understanding, affirming, and supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. Creating a safe space for you to explore your needs and goals is my priority. I specialize in work with individuals and couples/relational units. My clients are often struggling with attachment or communication challenges; wanting to improve their relationships. They may have had a recent loss, or are suffering from nagging symptoms of anxiety or depression. My approach is engaging and collaborative, I enjoy truly understanding where you currently are, and where you see yourself in the future.
I offer individuals and couples the ability to work together to reduce tension, understand communication patterns, explore "stuck" feelings, improve depression/anxiety, and resolve the weight of grief and loss symptoms.
As a queer clinician my practice is rooted in understanding, affirming, and supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. Creating a safe space for you to explore your needs and goals is my priority. I specialize in work with individuals and couples/relational units. My clients are often struggling with attachment or communication challenges; wanting to improve their relationships. They may have had a recent loss, or are suffering from nagging symptoms of anxiety or depression. My approach is engaging and collaborative, I enjoy truly understanding where you currently are, and where you see yourself in the future.
(410) 888-0787 View (410) 888-0787
Photo of Heidi Schreiber-Pan - Chesapeake Mental Health Collaborative, PhD, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Chesapeake Mental Health Collaborative
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117
We are highly effective in Anxiety Disorder, Child, Adolescent & Family therapy, Depression, Grief & Loss, Trauma, eating disorders, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Led by one of the top Stress and Anxiety experts in the area Dr. Heidi Schreiber-Pan, Chesapeake Mental Health Collaborative (CMHC) has a team of highly rated psychotherapists with the complementary skill set and approaches. Whether you are experiencing work burnout or have a severe anxiety disorder, CMHC has the right therapist for you. In addition to the clinically sound traditional approach, CMHC also offers innovative technics like Nature Informed Therapy, guided mindfulness meditation, yoga for anxiety, art therapy, online telehealth counseling.
We are highly effective in Anxiety Disorder, Child, Adolescent & Family therapy, Depression, Grief & Loss, Trauma, eating disorders, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Led by one of the top Stress and Anxiety experts in the area Dr. Heidi Schreiber-Pan, Chesapeake Mental Health Collaborative (CMHC) has a team of highly rated psychotherapists with the complementary skill set and approaches. Whether you are experiencing work burnout or have a severe anxiety disorder, CMHC has the right therapist for you. In addition to the clinically sound traditional approach, CMHC also offers innovative technics like Nature Informed Therapy, guided mindfulness meditation, yoga for anxiety, art therapy, online telehealth counseling.
(443) 400-7281 View (443) 400-7281
Photo of Alyson Henry, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyson Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include depression, grief and loss, chronic health issues, chronic pain, trauma, and navigating non-traditional relationships including CNM, kink and relationship anarchy.
I know it can be hard to find someone who understands. I know life can be challenging and complicated. I know that navigating life off-map is scary, confusing, and exciting all at once. I’m here to help you find your way… My approach is to work as a partner in your healing journey as we explore your individual needs and help you to live life as your most authentic self.
My areas of specialty include depression, grief and loss, chronic health issues, chronic pain, trauma, and navigating non-traditional relationships including CNM, kink and relationship anarchy.
I know it can be hard to find someone who understands. I know life can be challenging and complicated. I know that navigating life off-map is scary, confusing, and exciting all at once. I’m here to help you find your way… My approach is to work as a partner in your healing journey as we explore your individual needs and help you to live life as your most authentic self.
(443) 251-3143 View (443) 251-3143
Photo of Diana Roscow Terrill, PhD, Psychologist
Diana Roscow Terrill
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I am experienced in connecting with individuals dealing with relationship issues, depression and mood disorders, women's issues, grief and loss, self-esteems, issues of identity, and anxiety.
When you're struggling with life's many challenges, you may find comfort in talking things through with someone who is supportive, perceptive and outside your inner circle. I see therapy as an opportunity to explore your personal dilemmas in a safe and confidential setting. I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each person with whom I work. The resulting relationship is one of warmth, openness and trust. My goal is to guide you to build your own tools for healing and coping. Our work will enable you to enhance your relationships and improve your life satisfaction.
I am experienced in connecting with individuals dealing with relationship issues, depression and mood disorders, women's issues, grief and loss, self-esteems, issues of identity, and anxiety.
When you're struggling with life's many challenges, you may find comfort in talking things through with someone who is supportive, perceptive and outside your inner circle. I see therapy as an opportunity to explore your personal dilemmas in a safe and confidential setting. I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each person with whom I work. The resulting relationship is one of warmth, openness and trust. My goal is to guide you to build your own tools for healing and coping. Our work will enable you to enhance your relationships and improve your life satisfaction.
(410) 489-1590 View (410) 489-1590
Photo of Jeanne M Deignan-Kosmides Ms Ncc C-Iayt E-Ryt, LCPC, NCC , E-RYT, C-IAYT, MS
Jeanne M Deignan-Kosmides Ms Ncc C-Iayt E-Ryt
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC , E-RYT, C-IAYT, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Reisterstown, MD 21136
I provide compassionate counseling when you are facing mental health challenges - transitions in your life, relationship issues, trauma, grief, personal growth, anxiety, depression and stress related issues. I use a variety of counseling methods & incorporate mindfulness & relaxation into my counseling sessions when appropriate. I hope to bring a broad, warm and unique quality of experience, knowledge and nurturing support to the counseling sessions. I am also a Kripalu senior level yoga teacher, Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapist and Reiki Master.
I provide compassionate counseling when you are facing mental health challenges - transitions in your life, relationship issues, trauma, grief, personal growth, anxiety, depression and stress related issues. I use a variety of counseling methods & incorporate mindfulness & relaxation into my counseling sessions when appropriate. I hope to bring a broad, warm and unique quality of experience, knowledge and nurturing support to the counseling sessions. I am also a Kripalu senior level yoga teacher, Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapist and Reiki Master.
(410) 587-0201 View (410) 587-0201
Photo of Shelby Murtagh, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shelby Murtagh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
I work with clients who are ready to regain joy, feel better, and move forward from the past. Clients who are ready to take the next step in their healing journey, but might need a little help along the way are typically a great fit. I use a strengths-based perspective to help improve the skills clients already have in order to help them create a happier and healthier life for themselves and/or their families. I offer my services to children, teens, and adults who are seeking help for grief and loss, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
I work with clients who are ready to regain joy, feel better, and move forward from the past. Clients who are ready to take the next step in their healing journey, but might need a little help along the way are typically a great fit. I use a strengths-based perspective to help improve the skills clients already have in order to help them create a happier and healthier life for themselves and/or their families. I offer my services to children, teens, and adults who are seeking help for grief and loss, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
(240) 617-4088 View (240) 617-4088
Photo of Ashley Swift, LCPC, NCC
Ashley Swift
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21210  (Online Only)
Looking for both comfort and change? I strongly believe that growth happens when we feel supported and understood. As a therapist, my role is to facilitate your goals by highlighting new and old ways of processing and understanding the world around us. I am passionate about identifying and understanding the impact of values in ourselves, our support structures, and the community. A majority of the clients I work with experience anxiety, sadness, or grief, or they face challenges stemming from life transitions or from self-esteem, relationship, and identity. I hold particular interest working with transitional youth.
Looking for both comfort and change? I strongly believe that growth happens when we feel supported and understood. As a therapist, my role is to facilitate your goals by highlighting new and old ways of processing and understanding the world around us. I am passionate about identifying and understanding the impact of values in ourselves, our support structures, and the community. A majority of the clients I work with experience anxiety, sadness, or grief, or they face challenges stemming from life transitions or from self-esteem, relationship, and identity. I hold particular interest working with transitional youth.
(443) 338-8352 View (443) 338-8352
Photo of Yeshe Clarke, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yeshe Clarke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Owings Mills, MD 21117
I specialize in mindfulness and loving kindness and in grief and loss.
We all possess natural wisdom and the inherent capacity for health and healing. By engaging in mindfulness and loving kindness practices and principles we can take an honest look at ourselves, cultivate gentleness and compassion and work more skillfully with the make-up that we have. With this as our foundation we can realize that times of difficulty and struggle are also opportunities for tremendous growth and discovery.
I specialize in mindfulness and loving kindness and in grief and loss.
We all possess natural wisdom and the inherent capacity for health and healing. By engaging in mindfulness and loving kindness practices and principles we can take an honest look at ourselves, cultivate gentleness and compassion and work more skillfully with the make-up that we have. With this as our foundation we can realize that times of difficulty and struggle are also opportunities for tremendous growth and discovery.
(443) 965-9138 View (443) 965-9138
Photo of Emily Bitner, MS, LCPC, NCC, RYT500, Counselor
Emily Bitner
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, RYT500
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Reisterstown, MD 21136
It is a difficult thing to heal what we don't realize is impacting us. Recognizing we continually come back to the same belief or feeling over & over, helps us to know our past is informing our present. Trauma comes in all forms; death, abuse, difficult relationships, and less obvious ways: a hard time in childhood, not getting the emotional support we needed when we were young, even a constant fear of not having money or safety. Trauma doesn't look the same for everyone. Big 'T' or little 't' trauma plays a role in our present lives AND we can grow beyond it.
It is a difficult thing to heal what we don't realize is impacting us. Recognizing we continually come back to the same belief or feeling over & over, helps us to know our past is informing our present. Trauma comes in all forms; death, abuse, difficult relationships, and less obvious ways: a hard time in childhood, not getting the emotional support we needed when we were young, even a constant fear of not having money or safety. Trauma doesn't look the same for everyone. Big 'T' or little 't' trauma plays a role in our present lives AND we can grow beyond it.
(443) 863-7466 View (443) 863-7466
Photo of Sarah Burke, LCPC
Sarah Burke
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21043
I draw from both my clinical training and diverse life experiences to work with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief and loss, chronic pain, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes we need support to face our challenges. I believe it is possible to grow from our struggles and learn from the difficult experiences we go through. I work with adolescents and adults ages 18 and up and provide a client-centered approach that meets the unique needs of each person. I support my clients in building self-esteem, resolving core issues causing anxiety and depression, and developing coping skills to reduce stress. I strive to empower my clients to develop self-compassion, acceptance, and insight to improve quality of life and wellbeing.
I draw from both my clinical training and diverse life experiences to work with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief and loss, chronic pain, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes we need support to face our challenges. I believe it is possible to grow from our struggles and learn from the difficult experiences we go through. I work with adolescents and adults ages 18 and up and provide a client-centered approach that meets the unique needs of each person. I support my clients in building self-esteem, resolving core issues causing anxiety and depression, and developing coping skills to reduce stress. I strive to empower my clients to develop self-compassion, acceptance, and insight to improve quality of life and wellbeing.
(443) 730-5612 View (443) 730-5612
Photo of Kerriann E Murray, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kerriann E Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Reisterstown, MD 21136  (Online Only)
I support my clients with parenting, anxiety, and grief/loss.
If you're a mom who's feeling overwhelmed by the endless ups and downs of parenting, I can help. I'm a telehealth therapist specializing in anxiety, grief and loss, and parenting support. I love to work with moms, caregivers, and helping professionals who need a safe space to talk through their stressors and meet their challenges with a solution-focused mindset. If you're looking for support so that you can show up the way you want to for your people, please visit kerriannmurraylcsw.com today.
I support my clients with parenting, anxiety, and grief/loss.
If you're a mom who's feeling overwhelmed by the endless ups and downs of parenting, I can help. I'm a telehealth therapist specializing in anxiety, grief and loss, and parenting support. I love to work with moms, caregivers, and helping professionals who need a safe space to talk through their stressors and meet their challenges with a solution-focused mindset. If you're looking for support so that you can show up the way you want to for your people, please visit kerriannmurraylcsw.com today.
(301) 321-8569 View (301) 321-8569
Photo of Liza Hicks, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liza Hicks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228
I have been working with individuals who have experienced trauma, grief, and intense anxiety for 17 years.
I trust that finding a therapist is challenging and can be overwhelming. I am a caring, supportive, intelligent and well trained therapist. I am committed to helping people overcome challenges and pain in their lives.
I have been working with individuals who have experienced trauma, grief, and intense anxiety for 17 years.
I trust that finding a therapist is challenging and can be overwhelming. I am a caring, supportive, intelligent and well trained therapist. I am committed to helping people overcome challenges and pain in their lives.
(443) 406-2363 View (443) 406-2363
Victoria M Cofield-Aber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MA, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042
Many changes occur across the life span. Some changes are more difficult to manage than others. I encourage your exploration of the change process and openness to accepting the challenges in your life. I will partner with you and assist you with developing mindfulness strategies and techniques to help you move through your experience. Whether you are dealing with grief and loss issues, depression and anxiety, under achievement in work and school, or adjusting to changes in marriage or significant relationships, I can help you recognize and utilize your strengths to empower you to meet the changes in your life.
Many changes occur across the life span. Some changes are more difficult to manage than others. I encourage your exploration of the change process and openness to accepting the challenges in your life. I will partner with you and assist you with developing mindfulness strategies and techniques to help you move through your experience. Whether you are dealing with grief and loss issues, depression and anxiety, under achievement in work and school, or adjusting to changes in marriage or significant relationships, I can help you recognize and utilize your strengths to empower you to meet the changes in your life.
(443) 291-7781 View (443) 291-7781
Photo of 'mira' Mary Elizabeth Tessman, MA, LCPC, RYT-500, C-IAYT, Counselor
'mira' Mary Elizabeth Tessman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, RYT-500, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
My training in Mind-Body Medicine, IFS, CBT, Positive Psychology, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, meditation and yoga therapy and work in private practice, clinics, schools, psychiatric wards has provided me with a diverse set of clinical skills that relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, attentional challenges, grief, and relationship issues.
Beneath all of our disappointments, losses, and heartbreaks, we all want to be valued for who we are, accepted for how we feel, and respected for what we think. I will encourage you to cultivate present moment awareness and self-compassion for the painful difficulties, challenging life circumstances, and to the inner narrative that keeps you stuck in habitual patterns of reacting. While fear and doubt may obscure your perspective, we will work together to help you develop strength-based skills and capacities for moving through challenges. I will help you access your inner wisdom for cultivating trust, balance, clarity, & connection.
My training in Mind-Body Medicine, IFS, CBT, Positive Psychology, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, meditation and yoga therapy and work in private practice, clinics, schools, psychiatric wards has provided me with a diverse set of clinical skills that relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, attentional challenges, grief, and relationship issues.
Beneath all of our disappointments, losses, and heartbreaks, we all want to be valued for who we are, accepted for how we feel, and respected for what we think. I will encourage you to cultivate present moment awareness and self-compassion for the painful difficulties, challenging life circumstances, and to the inner narrative that keeps you stuck in habitual patterns of reacting. While fear and doubt may obscure your perspective, we will work together to help you develop strength-based skills and capacities for moving through challenges. I will help you access your inner wisdom for cultivating trust, balance, clarity, & connection.
(410) 881-0233 View (410) 881-0233
Photo of Elizabeth H Pilson, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth H Pilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21042  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is help empower my clients with the tools and skills needed to manage anxiety and grief in a health way.
When certain aspects of your life feel unmanageable, entering therapy can be a rewarding journey of self-discovery, healing, and transformation. Do challenges arise repeatedly in personal and professional relationships, especially during times of transition? Therapy is one of the most effective ways to improve relationships with others by exploring and strengthening a trusting relationship with Self. Often, my clients experience a significant reduction in anxiety, an improvement in communication, and effective problem resolution.
My goal is help empower my clients with the tools and skills needed to manage anxiety and grief in a health way.
When certain aspects of your life feel unmanageable, entering therapy can be a rewarding journey of self-discovery, healing, and transformation. Do challenges arise repeatedly in personal and professional relationships, especially during times of transition? Therapy is one of the most effective ways to improve relationships with others by exploring and strengthening a trusting relationship with Self. Often, my clients experience a significant reduction in anxiety, an improvement in communication, and effective problem resolution.
(410) 394-8482 View (410) 394-8482

See more therapy options for Randallstown

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.