Grief Therapists in Kalkaska, MI
![Photo of Annette Goodyear - Goodyear Counseling, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f37fa00-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
"Learning, Healing, Growing" is my goal for your journey in life. I work from a Cognitive Behavorial Therapy system and take a mindfulness approach. I believe that our daily activities are based on our thinking processes. I like to teach hollistic approaches to dealing with life issues (deep breathing, mindfulness, meditation, etc.) and incorporating positive thinking into sessions. This works with many life issues: depression, stress/anxiety, emotional issues, grief, relationship issues, etc. I have experience with couples, helping to find communication errors and helping to relieve some of the issues that cause the space between two people grow larger.
"Learning, Healing, Growing" is my goal for your journey in life. I work from a Cognitive Behavorial Therapy system and take a mindfulness approach. I believe that our daily activities are based on our thinking processes. I like to teach hollistic approaches to dealing with life issues (deep breathing, mindfulness, meditation, etc.) and incorporating positive thinking into sessions. This works with many life issues: depression, stress/anxiety, emotional issues, grief, relationship issues, etc. I have experience with couples, helping to find communication errors and helping to relieve some of the issues that cause the space between two people grow larger.
![Photo of Amanda Fackler, MEd, LLPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ca7ba7f-6b26-4b58-aa8a-93d65a803f40/1/320x400.jpeg)
You may be feeling like you've lived with depression and anxiety this long, what could really change at this point? You may feel like you're in the sunset of your life, like you're a burden to your family, or you want to isolate. Maybe grief just keeps coming as others in your age range begin to deal with health issues, death, or permanently moving away. You may be the adult child of an aging parent looking for help for your parent because you see that they're hurting but they are too stubborn to ask for your help. Maybe you have just a sliver of hope that things could be different and you're not ready to give up yet.
You may be feeling like you've lived with depression and anxiety this long, what could really change at this point? You may feel like you're in the sunset of your life, like you're a burden to your family, or you want to isolate. Maybe grief just keeps coming as others in your age range begin to deal with health issues, death, or permanently moving away. You may be the adult child of an aging parent looking for help for your parent because you see that they're hurting but they are too stubborn to ask for your help. Maybe you have just a sliver of hope that things could be different and you're not ready to give up yet.
![Photo of Adam C DeVaney - Life's Work Clinic PLLC., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0385507-326a-4e49-8103-daac220938f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, isolation, trauma, grief or an addiction? Our behavioral health team specializes in helping people with these types of challenges. We also offer Psychiatric Services as well as Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Addiction. We see healing as a two way street. It is a partnership. We are all in this together.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, isolation, trauma, grief or an addiction? Our behavioral health team specializes in helping people with these types of challenges. We also offer Psychiatric Services as well as Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Addiction. We see healing as a two way street. It is a partnership. We are all in this together.
![Photo of Margaret (Maggie) Hartmann - Begin Again Counseling Pllc, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2026ee7f-207f-450b-9d07-827c7e57d586/1/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret (Maggie) Hartmann - Begin Again Counseling Pllc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Kalkaska, MI 49646 (Online Only)
My focus is women and adult individuals seeking support with trauma, substance use/addiction, co-occurring disorders, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, loss, aging, relationships and co-dependence. Perceptions can and do change throughout our lives. It is never too late to begin again and there is always hope! Therapy serves as a vehicle to help you safely navigate your learning and personal growth, and to open doors to new possibilities. Together, through non-judgmental supportive guidance, we’ll develop skills that are the best fit to empower and enable the attainment of the life you desire!
My focus is women and adult individuals seeking support with trauma, substance use/addiction, co-occurring disorders, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, loss, aging, relationships and co-dependence. Perceptions can and do change throughout our lives. It is never too late to begin again and there is always hope! Therapy serves as a vehicle to help you safely navigate your learning and personal growth, and to open doors to new possibilities. Together, through non-judgmental supportive guidance, we’ll develop skills that are the best fit to empower and enable the attainment of the life you desire!
![Photo of Jeffrey D Goodwin, MDiv, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a1d0137-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeffrey D Goodwin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kalkaska, MI 49646
I work with grief and trauma using talk therapy and EMDR.
I love helping adolescents and their families! Sounds strange I know, but it's true. I provide a listening ear and create a non-judgmental space for youth ages 11-24 to talk about life, love, friendship, and the challenges associated with transitioning into adulthood. I also work with struggling adults, couples and stressed families, and help individuals deal with things like depression and anxiety. Life puts lots of pressure on individuals, marriages, parents, and families, and I'd love to help you find ways to cope with the pressure and go from surviving to thriving!
I work with grief and trauma using talk therapy and EMDR.
I love helping adolescents and their families! Sounds strange I know, but it's true. I provide a listening ear and create a non-judgmental space for youth ages 11-24 to talk about life, love, friendship, and the challenges associated with transitioning into adulthood. I also work with struggling adults, couples and stressed families, and help individuals deal with things like depression and anxiety. Life puts lots of pressure on individuals, marriages, parents, and families, and I'd love to help you find ways to cope with the pressure and go from surviving to thriving!
![Photo of Roberta LaMont - Traverse Health Clinic, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa208a6a-3455-4966-976f-4e450ba223bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Traverse Health Clinic
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kalkaska, MI 49646
Waitlist for new clients
There are a variety of reasons you might want to receive behavioral health services: Adjustment issues, anger, anxiety, chronic illness, communication issues, depression, grief/ loss, panic, parenting issues, relationship issues, stress management, addictions, or trauma.
Traverse Health Clinic provides behavioral health services to adults and adolescents ages 12 and up, even if you haven't established primary care with one of our medical providers. Our behavioral health services are provided by licensed therapists who are trained and qualified to help patients experiencing life stressors or mental health issues. Therapists are able to assist individuals in learning constructive ways to handle problems that interfere with everyday life. Services are usually time-limited and focused on specific goals that you, the patient, have identified.
There are a variety of reasons you might want to receive behavioral health services: Adjustment issues, anger, anxiety, chronic illness, communication issues, depression, grief/ loss, panic, parenting issues, relationship issues, stress management, addictions, or trauma.
Traverse Health Clinic provides behavioral health services to adults and adolescents ages 12 and up, even if you haven't established primary care with one of our medical providers. Our behavioral health services are provided by licensed therapists who are trained and qualified to help patients experiencing life stressors or mental health issues. Therapists are able to assist individuals in learning constructive ways to handle problems that interfere with everyday life. Services are usually time-limited and focused on specific goals that you, the patient, have identified.
![Photo of Jennifer A Cramer - Jenny Cramer, LMSW, PLLC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0eb40b46-ed64-4914-b463-a7f783be6281/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jenny Cramer, LMSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalkaska, MI 49646
Life can be overwhelming at times. Clients often express a loss of their sense of self, struggles with anxiety, and symptoms of depression. Societal expectations for people can seem crushingly unrealistic, leaving individuals to believe they are not good enough. Many are impacted by trauma and have formed deep-seeded, skewed values that have led to regrettable decisions, failed or troubled relationships, or any number of other situations. Each person needs to feel heard, understood, and connected. Finding a sense of joy, peace, and increased self-worth is not impossible. Help is here, judgement-free.
Life can be overwhelming at times. Clients often express a loss of their sense of self, struggles with anxiety, and symptoms of depression. Societal expectations for people can seem crushingly unrealistic, leaving individuals to believe they are not good enough. Many are impacted by trauma and have formed deep-seeded, skewed values that have led to regrettable decisions, failed or troubled relationships, or any number of other situations. Each person needs to feel heard, understood, and connected. Finding a sense of joy, peace, and increased self-worth is not impossible. Help is here, judgement-free.
![Photo of Jenn Strange, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/071ee815-498e-4451-9719-ff7f09762a28/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jenn Strange
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalkaska, MI 49646
Providing a safe and supportive environment for a client to work on their issues is of the utmost importance for me. I truly try to meet clients where they are at in terms of their issues while providing encouraging and non-judgmental feedback. An individual looking to explore issues, enhance coping skills, and create positive change in their life is the ideal client for my practice. I'm honored anytime a client chooses to allow me to be part of their journey.
Providing a safe and supportive environment for a client to work on their issues is of the utmost importance for me. I truly try to meet clients where they are at in terms of their issues while providing encouraging and non-judgmental feedback. An individual looking to explore issues, enhance coping skills, and create positive change in their life is the ideal client for my practice. I'm honored anytime a client chooses to allow me to be part of their journey.
![Photo of Andrew O'Brien, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/032b07f8-ae73-462a-b76f-e1be4a31d681/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be tough, and sometimes it feels like everything is falling apart. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about where to turn, I'm here to help. As a trained clinical social worker, I'm honored to support you on your journey towards healing and growth. Whether you're new to therapy or coming back after a break, taking that first step can be hard. But remember, you're not alone. Together, we can achieve great things and create the life you truly want.
Life can be tough, and sometimes it feels like everything is falling apart. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about where to turn, I'm here to help. As a trained clinical social worker, I'm honored to support you on your journey towards healing and growth. Whether you're new to therapy or coming back after a break, taking that first step can be hard. But remember, you're not alone. Together, we can achieve great things and create the life you truly want.
![Photo of Zane Schwaiger, LMFT, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ad3000d-631a-40c4-aeec-31bfd9bc763a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zane Schwaiger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalkaska, MI 49646
In my work with couples and families, I provide a warm, non-judgmental presence to help you share your story, make discoveries, and meet your goals. I have a particular passion for helping couples, and I also work with individuals of all ages. I see family members as part of a connected system, and I honor each person's need for belonging and independence within their closest relationships. My background in education and love for the natural world shape my connection with clients.
In my work with couples and families, I provide a warm, non-judgmental presence to help you share your story, make discoveries, and meet your goals. I have a particular passion for helping couples, and I also work with individuals of all ages. I see family members as part of a connected system, and I honor each person's need for belonging and independence within their closest relationships. My background in education and love for the natural world shape my connection with clients.
![Photo of Lindsay K. King, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2709218b-3eef-401b-bcf6-2ce810202e87/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsay K. King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kalkaska, MI 49646
Waitlist for new clients
“You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop.”-Rumi. You matter. What you think and feel matters. How you are treated matters. What you have been through matters. Perhaps you are a new mom, feeling overwhelmed and scared to admit things aren’t picture perfect. Perhaps you’re going though a hard transition, and feeling alone, lost, or confused. Maybe you’re no longer sure a relationship, or a job, is right for you, and are tired of not feeling seen or heard, valued or understood. Maybe constant worrying, or a hurtful past, is keeping you from living your life the way you want-with laughter, love, and hope.
“You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop.”-Rumi. You matter. What you think and feel matters. How you are treated matters. What you have been through matters. Perhaps you are a new mom, feeling overwhelmed and scared to admit things aren’t picture perfect. Perhaps you’re going though a hard transition, and feeling alone, lost, or confused. Maybe you’re no longer sure a relationship, or a job, is right for you, and are tired of not feeling seen or heard, valued or understood. Maybe constant worrying, or a hurtful past, is keeping you from living your life the way you want-with laughter, love, and hope.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Melissa Kathryn Maxwell - Reflect, Renew PLC, LMSW, CAADC, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4e66a47-07a4-40e6-85e9-6d98895e3473/2/320x400.jpeg)
Reflect, Renew PLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland, MI 48640 (Online Only)
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about services through Reflect, Renew PLC. I am an experienced clinician rooted in trauma informed, cognitive behavioral therapy. I have over 20 years of experience working with people impacted by trauma, grief, addiction and other adverse experiences. I work with both adults and families and would love to learn more about you and how I can help you meet your goals!
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about services through Reflect, Renew PLC. I am an experienced clinician rooted in trauma informed, cognitive behavioral therapy. I have over 20 years of experience working with people impacted by trauma, grief, addiction and other adverse experiences. I work with both adults and families and would love to learn more about you and how I can help you meet your goals!
![Photo of Jake Tracy, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da625707-a961-410b-bbb0-8d442cc9d17c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I love helping teens and their parents thrive! Serving hurting children, teens and adults working through depression, anxiety, anger, grief, self-esteem and more. We all need a guide sometimes, someone who walks alongside you, listening without judgment, helping you find answers. I don't pretend to know you better than you know you. I aim to ask the right questions, to listen, encourage, and teach practical steps for your success, to find answers within yourself. I can help you to establish systems to focus on your solutions. Our relationship focuses on changing both unhealthy thought processes, and behaviors.
I love helping teens and their parents thrive! Serving hurting children, teens and adults working through depression, anxiety, anger, grief, self-esteem and more. We all need a guide sometimes, someone who walks alongside you, listening without judgment, helping you find answers. I don't pretend to know you better than you know you. I aim to ask the right questions, to listen, encourage, and teach practical steps for your success, to find answers within yourself. I can help you to establish systems to focus on your solutions. Our relationship focuses on changing both unhealthy thought processes, and behaviors.
![Photo of Salena Phillips-Baker - Healthy Mind Counseling , Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51d4fa39-6bff-4df9-ae65-bee648b7cf06/1/320x400.jpeg)
We are trained to address a variety of needs for adults and adolescents who struggle with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, anger, phobias, sleep problems, grief and loss, addictions, pain, and feelings of worthlessness/low self-esteem.
Sometimes you need someone to talk too... Someone to listen...Someone who can help! Healthy Mind Counseling is a group of professionals who are dedicated to helping you. Life is complicated; whether it is a change in your mood, relationships, health, employment, or other current or past disturbing life event; we can help you find a way to thrive and work through the unique challenges you are facing.
We are trained to address a variety of needs for adults and adolescents who struggle with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, anger, phobias, sleep problems, grief and loss, addictions, pain, and feelings of worthlessness/low self-esteem.
Sometimes you need someone to talk too... Someone to listen...Someone who can help! Healthy Mind Counseling is a group of professionals who are dedicated to helping you. Life is complicated; whether it is a change in your mood, relationships, health, employment, or other current or past disturbing life event; we can help you find a way to thrive and work through the unique challenges you are facing.
![Photo of Anne Marie Brooks, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45bbedc6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Anne Marie Brooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Midland, MI 48640 (Online Only)
Keep It Real Counseling,LLC. Telehealth-thera 6py from the privacy of your home.anywhere in Michigan available! ,Experiencing substance abuse/compulsive behaviors? I'm a recovering alcoholic, sober since 3/3/06, a unique connection if you are also having issues with abusing substances. I've been through it! I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults going through their natural developmental changes. This can be a tough time and I provide strategies to is life stage. I have special training to assist families and couples if you are experiencing conflict. Are you dealing with depression, anxiety or grief? I can help!
Keep It Real Counseling,LLC. Telehealth-thera 6py from the privacy of your home.anywhere in Michigan available! ,Experiencing substance abuse/compulsive behaviors? I'm a recovering alcoholic, sober since 3/3/06, a unique connection if you are also having issues with abusing substances. I've been through it! I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults going through their natural developmental changes. This can be a tough time and I provide strategies to is life stage. I have special training to assist families and couples if you are experiencing conflict. Are you dealing with depression, anxiety or grief? I can help!
![Photo of Danielle Portillo, BSW, LMSW, SSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5196f833-0ab3-432b-a970-fa82f5844fa2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Portillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, LMSW, SSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
My experience in social work includes work in healing from trauma, violence, sexual abuse, oppression, grief, adjustment, & sense of self worth.
My work as a therapist is grounded in the core values of human relationships, dignity and worth of the person, human and cultural diversity, social justice and advocacy, and community mental health. I offer goal oriented and person-centered therapy individualized to client's expressive nature. I work with clients who would like to challenge their growth and get to know themselves in order become a better version of who they are. I believe that each of us has a life path and holds the capacity to authentically contribute to our world in a unique & positive manner.
My experience in social work includes work in healing from trauma, violence, sexual abuse, oppression, grief, adjustment, & sense of self worth.
My work as a therapist is grounded in the core values of human relationships, dignity and worth of the person, human and cultural diversity, social justice and advocacy, and community mental health. I offer goal oriented and person-centered therapy individualized to client's expressive nature. I work with clients who would like to challenge their growth and get to know themselves in order become a better version of who they are. I believe that each of us has a life path and holds the capacity to authentically contribute to our world in a unique & positive manner.
![Photo of Deanna Heath - Deanna Heath Mt. Pleasant Counseling, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/088016e9-441e-4ac2-b9e1-ef7e0f2fb40f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deanna Heath Mt. Pleasant Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, MI 48858
Whether it be depression, anxiety, low self esteem, grief, divorce, relationships or other difficult life situations, I work with clients to make the changes needed to lead to a happier, more meaningful life.
Change is difficult for everyone. Whether it is in ourselves, from life situations or in a relationship, roadblocks often keep us from living the best life possible. I enjoy working with people to make positive changes, enhancing their lives. I welcome new clients and look forward to working with you.
Whether it be depression, anxiety, low self esteem, grief, divorce, relationships or other difficult life situations, I work with clients to make the changes needed to lead to a happier, more meaningful life.
Change is difficult for everyone. Whether it is in ourselves, from life situations or in a relationship, roadblocks often keep us from living the best life possible. I enjoy working with people to make positive changes, enhancing their lives. I welcome new clients and look forward to working with you.
![Photo of Hollye Jacobs, RN, MS, MSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92ad66c1-80fa-442d-bbc7-61db5d746ea6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Why me? In addition to my professional qualifications, I have personally been to hell & back via cancer, natural disasters, bereavement, recovery, infertility, empty-nesting, sexual assault, & divorce.
Are you in transition and wondering: What's next and how do I get there? Have you experienced a loss (of normalcy, predictability, health, job, relationship)? Are you stuck, languishing in the liminal, in between place? Are you curious, willing to change and have an open mind and willingness to work collaboratively to identify and achieve future goals? Would you like to move from "now what?" to "know what!"? If so, let's talk.
Why me? In addition to my professional qualifications, I have personally been to hell & back via cancer, natural disasters, bereavement, recovery, infertility, empty-nesting, sexual assault, & divorce.
Are you in transition and wondering: What's next and how do I get there? Have you experienced a loss (of normalcy, predictability, health, job, relationship)? Are you stuck, languishing in the liminal, in between place? Are you curious, willing to change and have an open mind and willingness to work collaboratively to identify and achieve future goals? Would you like to move from "now what?" to "know what!"? If so, let's talk.
![Photo of Renee Clark, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f5a1fe6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Times are challenging. If you're feeling dissatisfied, depressed, unfulfilled, nervous, or disconnected from others, I can offer guidance and support. The therapy I provide is grounded in compassion, non-judgment, and curiosity. Utilizing an integrative approach, we'll find a path that works for you. Some of the issues my clients navigate: grief and loss; depression and anxiety; relationships (friends, family, romantic partners); life transitions (parenting, gender, career, marriage/divorce, menopause/mid-life); finding purpose/meaning; creating healthy boundaries; perfectionism; healing trauma (historical, childhood, etc.).
Times are challenging. If you're feeling dissatisfied, depressed, unfulfilled, nervous, or disconnected from others, I can offer guidance and support. The therapy I provide is grounded in compassion, non-judgment, and curiosity. Utilizing an integrative approach, we'll find a path that works for you. Some of the issues my clients navigate: grief and loss; depression and anxiety; relationships (friends, family, romantic partners); life transitions (parenting, gender, career, marriage/divorce, menopause/mid-life); finding purpose/meaning; creating healthy boundaries; perfectionism; healing trauma (historical, childhood, etc.).
![Photo of Colette Gomez - Thrive Therapy & Wellness, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca40e78-ce8e-4945-8eef-a51f08d2ef08/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am experienced in helping women managing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions or adjustments, grief, self-esteem, and trauma.
Hi! I'm Colette and I am happy you landed here on my page. It is important to me that you feel heard, accepted, and safe as we begin our work together. I take a person centered, strength-based approach to therapy, as well as a trauma informed care approach to therapy. I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship between client and therapist is pivotal to us working together. I understand that whatever path has led you here is unique to you. I strive to meet clients where they are in their personal journey. You can expect a collaborative environment with Thrive.
I am experienced in helping women managing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions or adjustments, grief, self-esteem, and trauma.
Hi! I'm Colette and I am happy you landed here on my page. It is important to me that you feel heard, accepted, and safe as we begin our work together. I take a person centered, strength-based approach to therapy, as well as a trauma informed care approach to therapy. I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship between client and therapist is pivotal to us working together. I understand that whatever path has led you here is unique to you. I strive to meet clients where they are in their personal journey. You can expect a collaborative environment with Thrive.
See more therapy options for Kalkaska
Nearby Grief Therapists Searches for Kalkaska
- Boyne City
- Cadillac
- Elk Rapids
- Gaylord
- Grayling
- Interlochen
- Kingsley
- Lake Leelanau
- Roscommon
- Suttons Bay
- Traverse City
- Williamsburg
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.