Grief Therapists in Silver Spring, MD

Photo of Jennifer Fang Brehm, MS, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Fang Brehm
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20901
As humans, we experience pain, loss, or difficulties in our lives as individuals and in our family relationships. We make our best efforts to cope, adapt or resolve these trying experiences on our own. But sometimes, we get stuck or they are too great to endure alone. I believe the therapeutic relationship is a safe place, free of judgement, invested in exploring, healing, and growing. Together, we can work on the interpersonal, emotional, psychological, and spiritual issues that hinder you and your relationships from reaching full potential.
As humans, we experience pain, loss, or difficulties in our lives as individuals and in our family relationships. We make our best efforts to cope, adapt or resolve these trying experiences on our own. But sometimes, we get stuck or they are too great to endure alone. I believe the therapeutic relationship is a safe place, free of judgement, invested in exploring, healing, and growing. Together, we can work on the interpersonal, emotional, psychological, and spiritual issues that hinder you and your relationships from reaching full potential.
(301) 804-2241 View (301) 804-2241
Photo of Adela Lourdes Leon, LCPC, GC-C
Adela Lourdes Leon
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, GC-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20901  (Online Only)
In my work, I offer guidance in exploring and processing the pain of your loss or situation, help navigate the path towards healing and recovery; and aid in the formulation and adjustment of your "new normal.
Life and all of its beauty can at times, present us with challenges that leave us feeling overwhelmed with sadness and a sense of loss. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a certification in Loss and Grief Counseling who is deeply committed to supporting those whose lives have been impacted by painful life events and transitions, such as: the loss of a loved one, terminal illness of self or loved ones, loss of relationships (divorce/separation), loss of child custody, loss of employment, traumatic injuries, disability issues, stillbirths, miscarriages, or cancer diagnoses. I offer sessions in English and Spanish.
In my work, I offer guidance in exploring and processing the pain of your loss or situation, help navigate the path towards healing and recovery; and aid in the formulation and adjustment of your "new normal.
Life and all of its beauty can at times, present us with challenges that leave us feeling overwhelmed with sadness and a sense of loss. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a certification in Loss and Grief Counseling who is deeply committed to supporting those whose lives have been impacted by painful life events and transitions, such as: the loss of a loved one, terminal illness of self or loved ones, loss of relationships (divorce/separation), loss of child custody, loss of employment, traumatic injuries, disability issues, stillbirths, miscarriages, or cancer diagnoses. I offer sessions in English and Spanish.
(301) 852-6579 View (301) 852-6579
Photo of Michael Morad-McCoy, PhD, NCC, LPCC, Counselor
Michael Morad-McCoy
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Our lives are filled with loss: relationships, jobs, physical abilities; deaths of loved ones; our own mortality. These losses shape our sense of who we are and our assumptions about life. However, these losses can give us the chance to make meaning, not by “moving on” or “finding closure,” but by walking and working through darker times. My job is not to help you “feel better,” but to join you on your journey. I won’t bring timelines or stages or expectations. I will bring my training and lived experience and hope to work with you as a fellow traveler on this shared journey to make meaning of our losses.
Our lives are filled with loss: relationships, jobs, physical abilities; deaths of loved ones; our own mortality. These losses shape our sense of who we are and our assumptions about life. However, these losses can give us the chance to make meaning, not by “moving on” or “finding closure,” but by walking and working through darker times. My job is not to help you “feel better,” but to join you on your journey. I won’t bring timelines or stages or expectations. I will bring my training and lived experience and hope to work with you as a fellow traveler on this shared journey to make meaning of our losses.
(202) 935-7748 View (202) 935-7748
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)
You may need a safe space for grief to be witnessed.
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.
You may need a safe space for grief to be witnessed.
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 Jennifer Hackler - Jen Hackler, LCSW, SEP, LCSW-C, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen Hackler, LCSW, SEP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, SEP
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I specialize in grief and loss, traumatic death (homicide, suicide and child loss), addictions, alcoholism and 12 step recovery, gay and lesbian relationships, self-esteem, depression and anxiety.
In a non-judgemental, respectful atmosphere I accompany people along their journey to living richer, more meaningful life. I encourage people to broaden their awareness into their thoughts, feelings, reactions and behaviors to identify strengths and whats working and challenges and how they are getting in the way. Recognizing the the mind-body-spirit connection, understanding healthy and antiquated defenses and increasing capacity for feeling a greater range of emotions at a deeper level is an important focus of the psychotherapy process. Identifying feelings, understanding reactions and learning better, more effective means of communicating with others is integral as well.
I specialize in grief and loss, traumatic death (homicide, suicide and child loss), addictions, alcoholism and 12 step recovery, gay and lesbian relationships, self-esteem, depression and anxiety.
In a non-judgemental, respectful atmosphere I accompany people along their journey to living richer, more meaningful life. I encourage people to broaden their awareness into their thoughts, feelings, reactions and behaviors to identify strengths and whats working and challenges and how they are getting in the way. Recognizing the the mind-body-spirit connection, understanding healthy and antiquated defenses and increasing capacity for feeling a greater range of emotions at a deeper level is an important focus of the psychotherapy process. Identifying feelings, understanding reactions and learning better, more effective means of communicating with others is integral as well.
(301) 684-8137 View (301) 684-8137
Photo of Melinda C Salzman, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melinda C Salzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
In the area of grief and loss, I offer education to the community and train other professionals.
I believe it is possible for people to change. For over 25 years, I have been working with teens, adults and seniors, helping them reassess what they want out of life and how to get it, change their approach to work and relationships, and heal the emotional and spiritual pain of loss, anxiety and depression. My areas of special interest include: Couples Therapy: Resolving Conflict and Deepening Intimacy; Grief and Loss: Healing the Pain of Loss and Adjusting to Living--Washingtonian magazine has named me a Top 10 Grief Therapist; Chronic Illness and Care Giving: Balancing Reality and Hope
In the area of grief and loss, I offer education to the community and train other professionals.
I believe it is possible for people to change. For over 25 years, I have been working with teens, adults and seniors, helping them reassess what they want out of life and how to get it, change their approach to work and relationships, and heal the emotional and spiritual pain of loss, anxiety and depression. My areas of special interest include: Couples Therapy: Resolving Conflict and Deepening Intimacy; Grief and Loss: Healing the Pain of Loss and Adjusting to Living--Washingtonian magazine has named me a Top 10 Grief Therapist; Chronic Illness and Care Giving: Balancing Reality and Hope
(301) 288-1431 View (301) 288-1431
Photo of Cara Miller, PhD, SEP, Psychologist
Cara Miller
Psychologist, PhD, SEP
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
I believe every person has the ability to grow and transform. I believe that we can best do so when accompanied compassionately along our journeys. Through increasing self-awareness, cultivating our inner and external resources, and understanding the interconnected influences of mind and body in our daily lives, we can transform through painful times and arrive into greater and deeper capacity for relationships to ourselves and with others. I specialize in working with adults through trauma healing, grief and loss (including that of beloved animals), LGBTQIA+ identities and relationships, depression/anxiety, and life transitions.
I believe every person has the ability to grow and transform. I believe that we can best do so when accompanied compassionately along our journeys. Through increasing self-awareness, cultivating our inner and external resources, and understanding the interconnected influences of mind and body in our daily lives, we can transform through painful times and arrive into greater and deeper capacity for relationships to ourselves and with others. I specialize in working with adults through trauma healing, grief and loss (including that of beloved animals), LGBTQIA+ identities and relationships, depression/anxiety, and life transitions.
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Photo of Jennifer Purnell-Joe, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Purnell-Joe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues, etc. Learning distress tolerance skills is a way to improve the quality of life and allows for a person to be empowered.
I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues, etc. Learning distress tolerance skills is a way to improve the quality of life and allows for a person to be empowered.
(240) 384-5875 View (240) 384-5875
Photo of Lorraine Biros, LCPC
Lorraine Biros
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Leading grief groups and support groups for women with cancer and their caregivers has taught me more about life, resilience, and living each day to the fullest than all my training and continuing ed combined.
I have a laid-back style and focus on creating safe space. My approach is pretty eclectic. Although my primary work is with the LGBTQ community--I have a strong LGBT and social justice background--it is not exclusive. I enjoy working with people willing to push their boundaries and learn about themselves. I also enjoy working with people exploring all kinds of creativity. I focus on what you see as your strengths. Building on those strengths makes the most sense to me when working with you.
Leading grief groups and support groups for women with cancer and their caregivers has taught me more about life, resilience, and living each day to the fullest than all my training and continuing ed combined.
I have a laid-back style and focus on creating safe space. My approach is pretty eclectic. Although my primary work is with the LGBTQ community--I have a strong LGBT and social justice background--it is not exclusive. I enjoy working with people willing to push their boundaries and learn about themselves. I also enjoy working with people exploring all kinds of creativity. I focus on what you see as your strengths. Building on those strengths makes the most sense to me when working with you.
(301) 747-1973 View (301) 747-1973
Photo of Tonya Frazier, PhD, LCPC, Counselor
Tonya Frazier
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Yes. I am accepting new clients. Areas of focus include: Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Phobias, Grief and Loss.
Yes. I am accepting new clients. Areas of focus include: Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Phobias, Grief and Loss.
(443) 291-7688 View (443) 291-7688
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 20910  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am Adrienne, an LCSW-C, with 28 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. I believe that every person has the capacity for growth and healing and I am committed to providing a supportive, non judgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, major life transitions, I am here to help you move toward a more balanced and fulfilling life. I specialize in the journey to motherhood, struggles with emotions during pregnancy, postpartum as well miscarriage and infant loss.
Welcome! I am Adrienne, an LCSW-C, with 28 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. I believe that every person has the capacity for growth and healing and I am committed to providing a supportive, non judgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, major life transitions, I am here to help you move toward a more balanced and fulfilling life. I specialize in the journey to motherhood, struggles with emotions during pregnancy, postpartum as well miscarriage and infant loss.
(301) 679-3164 View (301) 679-3164
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 Emily Coco, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Coco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20906
Whether you're struggling with overwhelming anxiety or depression, navigating through grief, or experiencing conflicts within your family, I can offer guidance & tools to help you overcome obstacles & achieve emotional well-being.
Do you want to increase self-awareness, reduce symptoms of anxiety/depression, improve communication & relationships within your family, process grief, find balance in your maternal role, and learn effective stress management techniques? Ultimately, do you want to regain control over your life and cultivate greater resilience and happiness? My primary goal is to provide my clients with coping strategies, build resilience, foster a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships, & create a more fulfilling life.
Whether you're struggling with overwhelming anxiety or depression, navigating through grief, or experiencing conflicts within your family, I can offer guidance & tools to help you overcome obstacles & achieve emotional well-being.
Do you want to increase self-awareness, reduce symptoms of anxiety/depression, improve communication & relationships within your family, process grief, find balance in your maternal role, and learn effective stress management techniques? Ultimately, do you want to regain control over your life and cultivate greater resilience and happiness? My primary goal is to provide my clients with coping strategies, build resilience, foster a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships, & create a more fulfilling life.
(240) 852-1925 View (240) 852-1925
Photo of Tonya M Logan, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tonya M Logan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 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 Joselyn Brown, LCPC
Joselyn Brown
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20906
My ideal client presents depressive symptoms related to trauma & grief. They express that they want to process unresolved childhood issues. They express that the issues have prevented close relationships with their adult children. They want forgiveness and help in creating better ties. The goal may be to explore & resolve issues related to traumatic events and improve overall mood. Interventions may include sharing details of the event and how it has affected their relationships, using positive self-talk, developing positive coping skills, and identifying effective strategies to communicate thoughts and feelings.
My ideal client presents depressive symptoms related to trauma & grief. They express that they want to process unresolved childhood issues. They express that the issues have prevented close relationships with their adult children. They want forgiveness and help in creating better ties. The goal may be to explore & resolve issues related to traumatic events and improve overall mood. Interventions may include sharing details of the event and how it has affected their relationships, using positive self-talk, developing positive coping skills, and identifying effective strategies to communicate thoughts and feelings.
(240) 262-4299 View (240) 262-4299
Photo of Amanda Rahimi, PhD, Psychologist
Amanda Rahimi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20901  (Online Only)
I have expertise in treating over- and binge eating concerns, grief/ loss, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and identity-related concerns.
Are you grieving a significant loss? Or, are your eating patterns are leading you to feel like you are losing yourself or that you have lost a sense of control over your life? I have over 15 years of experience treating grief/ loss concerns and overeating/binge eating behaviors. My clients are those that recognize a) they are engaging in coping skills that do not serve them, b) they are feeling stuck and ready to put in the emotional and behavioral work to change, c) they are ready to make connections between their past experiences and present-day concerns, and d) that therapy alone will not solve all of their concerns.
I have expertise in treating over- and binge eating concerns, grief/ loss, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and identity-related concerns.
Are you grieving a significant loss? Or, are your eating patterns are leading you to feel like you are losing yourself or that you have lost a sense of control over your life? I have over 15 years of experience treating grief/ loss concerns and overeating/binge eating behaviors. My clients are those that recognize a) they are engaging in coping skills that do not serve them, b) they are feeling stuck and ready to put in the emotional and behavioral work to change, c) they are ready to make connections between their past experiences and present-day concerns, and d) that therapy alone will not solve all of their concerns.
(301) 701-2529 View (301) 701-2529
Janice Lee Krupnick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
My particular areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, PTSD, trauma (sexual and physical assault, abuse, combat), self-image and self-esteem issues,as well as bereavement and other types of loss.
I am a clinical psychologist with more than 35 years of experience. My primary orientation is interpersonal/psychodynamic, but I am also familiar with cognitive behavioral therapy approaches and use them when appropriate. In addition to my private psychotherapy practice, I am a professor of psychiatry at Georgetown University and I have also served on the psychiatry faculties of The George Washington University and University of California, San Francisco. My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety (particularly posttraumatic stress disorder), relationship problems, self-esteem issues, and marital conflict. I am the author of several articles on psychotherapy practice.
My particular areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, PTSD, trauma (sexual and physical assault, abuse, combat), self-image and self-esteem issues,as well as bereavement and other types of loss.
I am a clinical psychologist with more than 35 years of experience. My primary orientation is interpersonal/psychodynamic, but I am also familiar with cognitive behavioral therapy approaches and use them when appropriate. In addition to my private psychotherapy practice, I am a professor of psychiatry at Georgetown University and I have also served on the psychiatry faculties of The George Washington University and University of California, San Francisco. My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety (particularly posttraumatic stress disorder), relationship problems, self-esteem issues, and marital conflict. I am the author of several articles on psychotherapy practice.
(301) 852-7592 View (301) 852-7592
Photo of Noa Ashman, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Noa Ashman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I work with individuals and couples and have experience with many presenting issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief & loss, career development & life transitions, trauma & PTSD, addictions, chronic pain, and low self esteem.
In my practice, I believe it is the relationship you share with a therapist that drives growth, change and relief from the symptoms that lead you to seek out therapy. Above all, for your therapy to be successful, you must feel safe, supported and understood. For many people, the hardest part of starting is making that first phone call to ask for help. From the beginning, I strive to meet you where you are and make a meaningful connection, so we can actively work together to help you feel better.
I work with individuals and couples and have experience with many presenting issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief & loss, career development & life transitions, trauma & PTSD, addictions, chronic pain, and low self esteem.
In my practice, I believe it is the relationship you share with a therapist that drives growth, change and relief from the symptoms that lead you to seek out therapy. Above all, for your therapy to be successful, you must feel safe, supported and understood. For many people, the hardest part of starting is making that first phone call to ask for help. From the beginning, I strive to meet you where you are and make a meaningful connection, so we can actively work together to help you feel better.
(301) 275-2327 View (301) 275-2327
Photo of Jonathan Kirkendall, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jonathan Kirkendall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20901
Whether you're a young professional starting out or an older adult, facing a loss, a traumatic event, or a period of uncertainty can be chaotic.
I'm a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience helping individuals in DC navigate grief, depression, anxiety, and trauma. Using a blend of techniques with a strong emphasis on mindfulness to foster self-compassion and emotional well-being, I genuinely love helping clients build a lifestyle that promotes a life of mental well-being. I also has a deep understanding of military families and veterans, having served them for 12 years. I have a warm and conversational approach, which creates a safe space for healing. In-person (Dupont) and telehealth sessions available.
Whether you're a young professional starting out or an older adult, facing a loss, a traumatic event, or a period of uncertainty can be chaotic.
I'm a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience helping individuals in DC navigate grief, depression, anxiety, and trauma. Using a blend of techniques with a strong emphasis on mindfulness to foster self-compassion and emotional well-being, I genuinely love helping clients build a lifestyle that promotes a life of mental well-being. I also has a deep understanding of military families and veterans, having served them for 12 years. I have a warm and conversational approach, which creates a safe space for healing. In-person (Dupont) and telehealth sessions available.
(202) 250-3744 View (202) 250-3744
Photo of Katrin J. Haller, MSW, MBA, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katrin J. Haller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MBA, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20902
Being aware how difficult it is to reach out for help, I am committed to meet you where you are. I am a licensed Psychotherapist and Psychoanalyst. I focus on understanding intersections of thoughts, behaviors that have developed over a lifetime creating difficulties in the present. I have completed analytic training as the most thorough training available to consider development. I have specialized knowledge in a wide range of issues including grief, postpartum, life/ international transitions and anxiety. I focus on the influence of race, culture and gender. I am LGBTQ+ affirmative and non- discriminatory.
Being aware how difficult it is to reach out for help, I am committed to meet you where you are. I am a licensed Psychotherapist and Psychoanalyst. I focus on understanding intersections of thoughts, behaviors that have developed over a lifetime creating difficulties in the present. I have completed analytic training as the most thorough training available to consider development. I have specialized knowledge in a wide range of issues including grief, postpartum, life/ international transitions and anxiety. I focus on the influence of race, culture and gender. I am LGBTQ+ affirmative and non- discriminatory.
(240) 317-3830 View (240) 317-3830
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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.