Grief Therapists in Towson, MD

Photo of Samantha Willett-Jackson, LCPAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Samantha Willett-Jackson
Art Therapist, LCPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286
Waitlist for new clients
I've worked in bereavement counseling, pediatric medical outpatient and inpatient centers, and in private practice.
I believe that the journey through growth in therapy is unique to every person. I work with those that are seeking assistance through life transitions, are processing intense emotions, need space with an unbiased support, or are looking for ways to invoke mindfulness and expression. Our paths in life frequently change, along with our perceptions and experiences. Starting therapy can be intimidating, and I am here to walk this path with you. Together we will explore obstacles and what makes us who we are to provide the power to change.
I've worked in bereavement counseling, pediatric medical outpatient and inpatient centers, and in private practice.
I believe that the journey through growth in therapy is unique to every person. I work with those that are seeking assistance through life transitions, are processing intense emotions, need space with an unbiased support, or are looking for ways to invoke mindfulness and expression. Our paths in life frequently change, along with our perceptions and experiences. Starting therapy can be intimidating, and I am here to walk this path with you. Together we will explore obstacles and what makes us who we are to provide the power to change.
(443) 972-5932 View (443) 972-5932
Photo of Alexandra Bradford, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Bradford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286  (Online Only)
Life presents everyone with challenges. Difficult changes, traumatic experiences, loss, work-life imbalance, and exhausting schedules can bring stress, depression, or just a feeling of being overwhelmed. There is no need to face this alone. When you are ready, a therapist can be a powerful partner. My therapeutic approach creates a safe space for you to be open and explore who you are and who you want to be. You gain insight into your thoughts and actions then learn new practices to create sustainable positive change. I strive to help clients feel more empowered and have more self-compassion.
Life presents everyone with challenges. Difficult changes, traumatic experiences, loss, work-life imbalance, and exhausting schedules can bring stress, depression, or just a feeling of being overwhelmed. There is no need to face this alone. When you are ready, a therapist can be a powerful partner. My therapeutic approach creates a safe space for you to be open and explore who you are and who you want to be. You gain insight into your thoughts and actions then learn new practices to create sustainable positive change. I strive to help clients feel more empowered and have more self-compassion.
(984) 212-2482 View (984) 212-2482
Photo of Donna Shin, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Donna Shin
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204
Find the freedom and confidence to discover your inner truth, your emotions, and your voice. Healing and becoming aligned with your true self is a life giving energetic and sacred experience that takes place within the safety and trust of the counseling relationship or in a confidential group of kindred spirits — often both. We must go deep to connect with the vital energy and core vitality that we were born with after life has brought pain, losses and various forms of trauma or abuse. Integrating my specialities of grief, trauma, and emotional recovery, I help survivors of narcissistic abuse heal and make meaning of it all.
Find the freedom and confidence to discover your inner truth, your emotions, and your voice. Healing and becoming aligned with your true self is a life giving energetic and sacred experience that takes place within the safety and trust of the counseling relationship or in a confidential group of kindred spirits — often both. We must go deep to connect with the vital energy and core vitality that we were born with after life has brought pain, losses and various forms of trauma or abuse. Integrating my specialities of grief, trauma, and emotional recovery, I help survivors of narcissistic abuse heal and make meaning of it all.
(410) 877-6217 View (410) 877-6217
Photo of Samantha Zipp Dowd, MS, LCPC, CYT, Counselor
Samantha Zipp Dowd
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CYT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204
I specialize in female and maternal mental health and have received training in: infertility, miscarriage, postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, menopausal transition, sleep disorders, grief and loss.
Greetings! Finding a therapist can be an intimidating experience and you are taking the hard step - the first one. In our therapeutic relationship, I provide a safe space to explore your struggles, recognize that you are not alone, and support you on your journey. Your feelings and experiences are valid and matter. I see adults (18+) who are facing a variety of challenges throughout the lifespan, particularly during times of transition, grief and loss. I work with you to identify and empower your own unique strengths and instill a sense of hope. From me you can expect authenticity, warmth, and reliability.
I specialize in female and maternal mental health and have received training in: infertility, miscarriage, postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, menopausal transition, sleep disorders, grief and loss.
Greetings! Finding a therapist can be an intimidating experience and you are taking the hard step - the first one. In our therapeutic relationship, I provide a safe space to explore your struggles, recognize that you are not alone, and support you on your journey. Your feelings and experiences are valid and matter. I see adults (18+) who are facing a variety of challenges throughout the lifespan, particularly during times of transition, grief and loss. I work with you to identify and empower your own unique strengths and instill a sense of hope. From me you can expect authenticity, warmth, and reliability.
(667) 206-3706 View (667) 206-3706
Photo of Dr. Nicole Michelle Holden - The Holden Grace Group, LLC, Pastoral Counselor
The Holden Grace Group, LLC
Pastoral Counselor
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204
As your therapist, I understand that you seek a safe, supportive space to navigate life's challenges, whether it's coping with grief, improving relationships, or addressing anxiety. Your goal is to find peace, resilience, and a deeper understanding of yourself and your experiences. You want to feel heard, valued, and empowered to make positive changes.
As your therapist, I understand that you seek a safe, supportive space to navigate life's challenges, whether it's coping with grief, improving relationships, or addressing anxiety. Your goal is to find peace, resilience, and a deeper understanding of yourself and your experiences. You want to feel heard, valued, and empowered to make positive changes.
(443) 720-7080 View (443) 720-7080
Photo of Hansi Onyemezikeya, LGPC, Counselor
Hansi Onyemezikeya
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286  (Online Only)
Has experience working with clients to cope with profound encounters of grief, loss, & the emotional challenges of infertility. With deep empathy and a non-judgmental approach, she creates a compassionate space where clients feel safe to explore their most vulnerable thoughts and feelings. Whether addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship challenges, she approaches each client with compassion and a genuine desire to support their growth and healing. She provides counseling to clients at all stages of life.
Has experience working with clients to cope with profound encounters of grief, loss, & the emotional challenges of infertility. With deep empathy and a non-judgmental approach, she creates a compassionate space where clients feel safe to explore their most vulnerable thoughts and feelings. Whether addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship challenges, she approaches each client with compassion and a genuine desire to support their growth and healing. She provides counseling to clients at all stages of life.
(443) 291-5375 View (443) 291-5375
Photo of Dorcas K. Hutton, MS, LCPC, NCC
Dorcas K. Hutton
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204
I provide a safe place for you to discuss your issues. I work with clients on life transitions, relationship issues, anger management, grief and loss, parenting, and childhood trauma. My treatment approach is a combination of cognitive-behavior, solution-focused, and family systems. My goal is to bring hope to your situation and help you construct positive changes in your life's journey.
I provide a safe place for you to discuss your issues. I work with clients on life transitions, relationship issues, anger management, grief and loss, parenting, and childhood trauma. My treatment approach is a combination of cognitive-behavior, solution-focused, and family systems. My goal is to bring hope to your situation and help you construct positive changes in your life's journey.
(443) 692-7936 View (443) 692-7936
Photo of Julie G. Kays, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Julie G. Kays
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204
Are you or your family hurting and don’t know where to start? Have you experienced accumulated loss throughout life or a recent loss which requires support to make sense of it all? Please reach out to someone who can help you face suffering, navigate the pain of loss and find a path towards healing.
Life is filled with loss, yet we live in a grief-illiterate culture that wants to bypass pain at all costs, leaving us unprepared to navigate both death and non- death losses when they come. When looked at through the lens of loss, many emotional states that plague us – anxiety, depression, trauma – can be tied to unresolved grief in our lives. Every loss must be grieved and in finding a path through the pain, healing can begin.
Are you or your family hurting and don’t know where to start? Have you experienced accumulated loss throughout life or a recent loss which requires support to make sense of it all? Please reach out to someone who can help you face suffering, navigate the pain of loss and find a path towards healing.
Life is filled with loss, yet we live in a grief-illiterate culture that wants to bypass pain at all costs, leaving us unprepared to navigate both death and non- death losses when they come. When looked at through the lens of loss, many emotional states that plague us – anxiety, depression, trauma – can be tied to unresolved grief in our lives. Every loss must be grieved and in finding a path through the pain, healing can begin.
(410) 210-4965 View (410) 210-4965
Photo of Diana Roscow Terrill, PhD, Psychologist
Diana Roscow Terrill
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204
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 Emily C Walker, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily C Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204  (Online Only)
I specialize in depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma/PTSD, grief/ loss, and addiction.
Therapy is a process and a journey to becoming the best version of yourself. I have a deep appreciation for every one’s story. My passion is to help each person with whom I am lucky to work achieve breakthroughs and transform their life.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma/PTSD, grief/ loss, and addiction.
Therapy is a process and a journey to becoming the best version of yourself. I have a deep appreciation for every one’s story. My passion is to help each person with whom I am lucky to work achieve breakthroughs and transform their life.
(443) 991-8325 View (443) 991-8325
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
Towson, MD 21204
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 Dr. Renee Hicks, PhD, LCPC, Counselor
Dr. Renee Hicks
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21286  (Online Only)
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 Bobbi Parks, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bobbi Parks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286  (Online Only)
We are confronted with stress and negativity on a daily basis. At times it may feel too overwhelming to cope with it all. Perhaps you are seeking treatment to cope with a loss, to manage anxiety or mood swings, or are struggling with a difficult relationship. Therapy provides you with a safe, supportive and healing environment to explore your innermost thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement. I practice using a psychodynamic approach, also known as insight-oriented therapy. I also utilize other approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, and mindfulness techniques.
We are confronted with stress and negativity on a daily basis. At times it may feel too overwhelming to cope with it all. Perhaps you are seeking treatment to cope with a loss, to manage anxiety or mood swings, or are struggling with a difficult relationship. Therapy provides you with a safe, supportive and healing environment to explore your innermost thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement. I practice using a psychodynamic approach, also known as insight-oriented therapy. I also utilize other approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, and mindfulness techniques.
(443) 903-2232 View (443) 903-2232
Dustin F Sentz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204  (Online Only)
In addition to considerable experience with anxiety spectrum disorders, depressive and other mood disorders, and relationship or adjustment issues, I specialize in couples counseling and grief counseling.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is central to success in therapy, and I work collaboratively with clients to design the best course of treatment. I am an active, genuine therapist with a humanistic and cognitive-behavioral focus. I promote self-awareness and positive interpersonal interactions while attending to the unique needs of each client. I work with adults of all ages on a range of client concerns including, but not limited to; anxiety, depression, mood disorders, self-esteem, relationship issues, cognitive issues, and life transitions.
In addition to considerable experience with anxiety spectrum disorders, depressive and other mood disorders, and relationship or adjustment issues, I specialize in couples counseling and grief counseling.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is central to success in therapy, and I work collaboratively with clients to design the best course of treatment. I am an active, genuine therapist with a humanistic and cognitive-behavioral focus. I promote self-awareness and positive interpersonal interactions while attending to the unique needs of each client. I work with adults of all ages on a range of client concerns including, but not limited to; anxiety, depression, mood disorders, self-esteem, relationship issues, cognitive issues, and life transitions.
(410) 881-0471 View (410) 881-0471
Photo of Jacqueline Stilling, LCPC, MS, Counselor
Jacqueline Stilling
Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286
Using a psychodynamic and IFS (Parts Work) approach, I provide therapy for individual adults, couples, and families. Patients learn to recognize patterns in their behaviors that are causing them discomfort. Through the therapeutic approach and the therapeutic relationship, patients begin to make meaning of their internal system thus enabling them to utilize new ways of coping with grief, transitions (newly married, divorce, raising children, new job, relocation), anxiety, and past trauma.
Using a psychodynamic and IFS (Parts Work) approach, I provide therapy for individual adults, couples, and families. Patients learn to recognize patterns in their behaviors that are causing them discomfort. Through the therapeutic approach and the therapeutic relationship, patients begin to make meaning of their internal system thus enabling them to utilize new ways of coping with grief, transitions (newly married, divorce, raising children, new job, relocation), anxiety, and past trauma.
(410) 846-0624 View (410) 846-0624
Photo of Dr. Radhika Parekh, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Radhika Parekh
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204
My specialized training in trauma, pediatric psychology, and child development have shaped my understanding of the ways in which traumatic stress, grief and loss, chronic illness, anxiety, and depression can affect people in childhood and young adulthood.
Are you (or your child) struggling to cope with a traumatic experience, loss, anxiety, depression, and/or a chronic illness? If so, I am here to support you! I specialize in providing trauma-informed, culturally responsive therapy to kids, teens, & young adults (ages 5 to 30) experiencing trauma, grief, chronic medical conditions (Type 1/Type 2 diabetes, PCOS, other endocrine disorders, autoimmune disorders, GI issues), mood concerns, identity issues, and family/relationship stress. Therapy is a space where you (and/or your child) can feel heard, understood, and supported. We will work together to navigate life’s stressful moments.
My specialized training in trauma, pediatric psychology, and child development have shaped my understanding of the ways in which traumatic stress, grief and loss, chronic illness, anxiety, and depression can affect people in childhood and young adulthood.
Are you (or your child) struggling to cope with a traumatic experience, loss, anxiety, depression, and/or a chronic illness? If so, I am here to support you! I specialize in providing trauma-informed, culturally responsive therapy to kids, teens, & young adults (ages 5 to 30) experiencing trauma, grief, chronic medical conditions (Type 1/Type 2 diabetes, PCOS, other endocrine disorders, autoimmune disorders, GI issues), mood concerns, identity issues, and family/relationship stress. Therapy is a space where you (and/or your child) can feel heard, understood, and supported. We will work together to navigate life’s stressful moments.
(443) 331-9588 View (443) 331-9588
Photo of Mary Sue McCarthy, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Mary Sue McCarthy
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204
Helping clients recover from the effects of PTSD including military and FIRST RESPONDERS, or childhood and adult trauma ( abuse, accidents, witnessing, job or relationship loss, death) is my speciality using EMDR and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Equine Assisted Therapy.
My therapy practice is founded on my belief that inherent in everyone is the ability to know their wants and needs, declare their own truths and find the best way forward. As your therapist, my role is to support you in your journey, at whatever place you start, to help you clear the way, navigate through the storms, and celebrate the sunshine. My specialties are Addictions Recovery, EMDR/Trauma Therapy , Anger Management and Conflict Resolution and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. All potential new clients are welcome to an initial 30 minute consultation, at no charge.
Helping clients recover from the effects of PTSD including military and FIRST RESPONDERS, or childhood and adult trauma ( abuse, accidents, witnessing, job or relationship loss, death) is my speciality using EMDR and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Equine Assisted Therapy.
My therapy practice is founded on my belief that inherent in everyone is the ability to know their wants and needs, declare their own truths and find the best way forward. As your therapist, my role is to support you in your journey, at whatever place you start, to help you clear the way, navigate through the storms, and celebrate the sunshine. My specialties are Addictions Recovery, EMDR/Trauma Therapy , Anger Management and Conflict Resolution and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. All potential new clients are welcome to an initial 30 minute consultation, at no charge.
(410) 514-3263 View (410) 514-3263
Photo of Réné Pallace, CPCC
Réné Pallace
CPCC
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21252
Grief coaching is mindful mindwork.
People who love grieve. I am a credentialed counselor with years of experience and training and plenty of personal experience with grief and loss. I do not diagnose or prescribe. I coach through the experience of grief: holding space for you; witnessing your love; acknowledging your despair; working with you to reframe your hopes and fears. Grief coaching is mindful mindwork. You are naturally creative, resourceful and whole. Changing your thinking changes your life and enhances your well being. Count on my support to navigate your grief so you are more response-able and grounded.
Grief coaching is mindful mindwork.
People who love grieve. I am a credentialed counselor with years of experience and training and plenty of personal experience with grief and loss. I do not diagnose or prescribe. I coach through the experience of grief: holding space for you; witnessing your love; acknowledging your despair; working with you to reframe your hopes and fears. Grief coaching is mindful mindwork. You are naturally creative, resourceful and whole. Changing your thinking changes your life and enhances your well being. Count on my support to navigate your grief so you are more response-able and grounded.
(667) 206-3710 View (667) 206-3710
Debbi g Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204
With many years of experience treating individuals and families working through Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Illness and Life Transitions, and with 8 years of specific and specialized experience focused on the treatment of Eating Disorders in young adolescents, I have now opened my own practice in the heart of Pikesville.
I received my Master's in Social Work, from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, in 1999. I then trained at Jewish Family Services where I practiced for 11 years, seeing children, adults and families. In 2009, I began work at the Center for Eating Disorders at Sheppard Pratt where I received extensive training in the Maudsley Method/ Family Based Therapy Approach to treating Anorexia in adolescent patients and working with their families. Additionally, I have training in Sand Tray Therapy, a nonverbal modality that is helpful with the treatment of trauma as well as other concerns.
With many years of experience treating individuals and families working through Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Illness and Life Transitions, and with 8 years of specific and specialized experience focused on the treatment of Eating Disorders in young adolescents, I have now opened my own practice in the heart of Pikesville.
I received my Master's in Social Work, from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, in 1999. I then trained at Jewish Family Services where I practiced for 11 years, seeing children, adults and families. In 2009, I began work at the Center for Eating Disorders at Sheppard Pratt where I received extensive training in the Maudsley Method/ Family Based Therapy Approach to treating Anorexia in adolescent patients and working with their families. Additionally, I have training in Sand Tray Therapy, a nonverbal modality that is helpful with the treatment of trauma as well as other concerns.
(410) 807-3844 View (410) 807-3844
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
Towson, MD 21286  (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
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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.