Grief Therapists in Denville, NJ

Photo of Kristi Capriglione, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristi Capriglione
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
Daylight Grief understands that grief and death can bring us to our knees where everything (thoughts, feelings, experiences, understanding, our world) changes in an instant.
Are you looking to learn more about the grieving process? Or would you like help in navigating the magnitude of emotions? Perhaps you’re looking to connect with others who might get what you’re experiencing – helping you to feel less alone? Whether it's working through strong and/or unfamiliar emotions, wanting to connect with others or just not wanting to do this grief thing alone, Daylight Grief can help. We work with those who have experienced sudden, traumatic and expected losses.
Daylight Grief understands that grief and death can bring us to our knees where everything (thoughts, feelings, experiences, understanding, our world) changes in an instant.
Are you looking to learn more about the grieving process? Or would you like help in navigating the magnitude of emotions? Perhaps you’re looking to connect with others who might get what you’re experiencing – helping you to feel less alone? Whether it's working through strong and/or unfamiliar emotions, wanting to connect with others or just not wanting to do this grief thing alone, Daylight Grief can help. We work with those who have experienced sudden, traumatic and expected losses.
(862) 420-9134 View (862) 420-9134
Photo of Leah Oswanski, MA, LPC, ACS, MT-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leah Oswanski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, MT-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
I have extensive training and experience in the areas of psycho-oncology, LGBTQ+ topics, codependency, grief, anxiety, and stress reduction.
Transitions. Grief. Loss. Fear. Change. Whether it is from the death of a loved one, divorce or marital discord, the coming out process, being diagnosed with a chronic or terminal illness, or adjusting to significant life changes: support can be a critical component of healing. I believe you already have everything you need within you to move through this. My focus is to collaborate with you in the exploration of feelings, cultivating your strengths, and creating/defining new coping skills to navigate this challenging time.
I have extensive training and experience in the areas of psycho-oncology, LGBTQ+ topics, codependency, grief, anxiety, and stress reduction.
Transitions. Grief. Loss. Fear. Change. Whether it is from the death of a loved one, divorce or marital discord, the coming out process, being diagnosed with a chronic or terminal illness, or adjusting to significant life changes: support can be a critical component of healing. I believe you already have everything you need within you to move through this. My focus is to collaborate with you in the exploration of feelings, cultivating your strengths, and creating/defining new coping skills to navigate this challenging time.
(862) 404-1092 View (862) 404-1092
Photo of Laura Irwin Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Irwin Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
I have experienced joy and grief in my life that help me to be empathetic and compassionate, including a child with significant medical trauma.
I believe that we all want to feel heard and understood, and experience feeling whole. These longings are inherent to the human experience. Therapy is an opportunity for me to partner with you to co-create a space that allows for this process to occur. My journey as a social worker started when I was in my 20’s and I have spent much of my life in the helper role. Personally/professionally, I have met all kinds of people, and experienced many circumstances, which have led me to develop strong therapeutic connections with individuals and families. I am non-judgmental and strength-focused, which allows for a safe space during therapy.
I have experienced joy and grief in my life that help me to be empathetic and compassionate, including a child with significant medical trauma.
I believe that we all want to feel heard and understood, and experience feeling whole. These longings are inherent to the human experience. Therapy is an opportunity for me to partner with you to co-create a space that allows for this process to occur. My journey as a social worker started when I was in my 20’s and I have spent much of my life in the helper role. Personally/professionally, I have met all kinds of people, and experienced many circumstances, which have led me to develop strong therapeutic connections with individuals and families. I am non-judgmental and strength-focused, which allows for a safe space during therapy.
(862) 212-3345 View (862) 212-3345
Photo of Jaclyn Leit, LCSW, BC-TMH, CGIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaclyn Leit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BC-TMH, CGIP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
Waitlist for new clients
I also am a Certified Grief Informed Professional.
No two individuals are the same & that is how I approach treatment. I make therapy fit your needs by drawing upon a variety of clinical frameworks to provide patient focused care. Therapy is about you & we focus on addressing what you want to heal. Working together, we build upon your strengths and help develop coping skills and support while working towards your goals. I have 2 decades of experience & I am trained to address many concerns. I see adults, adolescents & couples.
I also am a Certified Grief Informed Professional.
No two individuals are the same & that is how I approach treatment. I make therapy fit your needs by drawing upon a variety of clinical frameworks to provide patient focused care. Therapy is about you & we focus on addressing what you want to heal. Working together, we build upon your strengths and help develop coping skills and support while working towards your goals. I have 2 decades of experience & I am trained to address many concerns. I see adults, adolescents & couples.
(201) 419-6341 View (201) 419-6341
Photo of Amy Callahan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Callahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
I have special training in The Treatment of Addictions, depression and anxiety, grief- loss and divorce, couples and family work, play therapy, school issues, and eastern philosophy( for those interested only).
Life is challenging and therapy is a wonderful gift. It takes bravery to admit there are things we need assistance in coping with. Finding the right fit in a therapist can make all the difference in changing our lives. I work with children ( Toddlers- adolescents) Adults, couples and families. I bring a wealth of knowledge and different therapeutic techniques to match your level of comfort. My practice, is warm, welcoming and confidential.I also provide clinical supervision.
I have special training in The Treatment of Addictions, depression and anxiety, grief- loss and divorce, couples and family work, play therapy, school issues, and eastern philosophy( for those interested only).
Life is challenging and therapy is a wonderful gift. It takes bravery to admit there are things we need assistance in coping with. Finding the right fit in a therapist can make all the difference in changing our lives. I work with children ( Toddlers- adolescents) Adults, couples and families. I bring a wealth of knowledge and different therapeutic techniques to match your level of comfort. My practice, is warm, welcoming and confidential.I also provide clinical supervision.
(201) 774-7027 View (201) 774-7027
Photo of Jolene Winsor, MA,  LAC,  CTP, MAT
Jolene Winsor
Associate Counselor, MA, LAC, CTP, MAT
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834  (Online Only)
In order to support you to address thought processes, feelings, and sensations linked to distressing events, I integrate a variety of interventions including: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing (SE), grief counseling, and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFBT).
Do you find yourself feeling isolated in your feelings or struggles, like no one quite understands? Have you suffered a loss or experienced a life change that has resulted in grief? Do you feel as if you should have “moved on” by now or are “stuck”? Do your struggles prevent you from feeling as if you can be fully present and enjoy your life as you would like to? Would you like to develop skills to assist in living the life you desire?
In order to support you to address thought processes, feelings, and sensations linked to distressing events, I integrate a variety of interventions including: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing (SE), grief counseling, and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFBT).
Do you find yourself feeling isolated in your feelings or struggles, like no one quite understands? Have you suffered a loss or experienced a life change that has resulted in grief? Do you feel as if you should have “moved on” by now or are “stuck”? Do your struggles prevent you from feeling as if you can be fully present and enjoy your life as you would like to? Would you like to develop skills to assist in living the life you desire?
(862) 500-4935 View (862) 500-4935
Photo of Martha I Deutch - Martha I. Deutch, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Martha I. Deutch, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
I can help you to cope with loss of independence, caregiver stress, illness, grief, and a variety of other losses-spouse, friends, pets, adjusting to a new living environment, as well as many other geriatric concerns.
Are you having difficulty adjusting to changes in your life, especially during Covid-19? Are you feeling scared? Isolated? Lonely? Anxious and/or depressed? Overwhelmed? Have everyday problems become magnified? If you answered YES to any of these questions, then now is the time to give me a call. I am here to help. We will work together for positive outcomes.
I can help you to cope with loss of independence, caregiver stress, illness, grief, and a variety of other losses-spouse, friends, pets, adjusting to a new living environment, as well as many other geriatric concerns.
Are you having difficulty adjusting to changes in your life, especially during Covid-19? Are you feeling scared? Isolated? Lonely? Anxious and/or depressed? Overwhelmed? Have everyday problems become magnified? If you answered YES to any of these questions, then now is the time to give me a call. I am here to help. We will work together for positive outcomes.
(973) 310-5532 View (973) 310-5532
Photo of Meredith K Gondo, PsyD, Psychologist
Meredith K Gondo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
Waitlist for new clients
I strive to provide a safe space for healing and connection where my clients feel supported without judgement. I have experience working with chronic health and chronic pain conditions, end of life concerns, caregivers support, grief, healthy aging, anxiety, and depression. I support individuals working through a variety of life transitions such as career change, job loss, marital issues, divorce, parenting, and more.
I strive to provide a safe space for healing and connection where my clients feel supported without judgement. I have experience working with chronic health and chronic pain conditions, end of life concerns, caregivers support, grief, healthy aging, anxiety, and depression. I support individuals working through a variety of life transitions such as career change, job loss, marital issues, divorce, parenting, and more.
(862) 640-1556 View (862) 640-1556
Photo of Chloe G Bland, PhD, Psychologist
Chloe G Bland
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
Waitlist for new clients
My private practice, Goodale Wellness, LLC, is located in Denville, NJ. I see clients both in-person and virtually. In my practice, I support children, adolescents, and their families, with a specialty of helping families heal during and after trauma, loss, and grief. During this time in our country, most people have been touched by trauma, loss, and grief of some kind or another. Since the global pandemic, many children struggled and are now facing challenges in their homes, schools, and social lives. At Goodale Wellness, LLC, we have experience with this and can help your child and your family heal and grow.
My private practice, Goodale Wellness, LLC, is located in Denville, NJ. I see clients both in-person and virtually. In my practice, I support children, adolescents, and their families, with a specialty of helping families heal during and after trauma, loss, and grief. During this time in our country, most people have been touched by trauma, loss, and grief of some kind or another. Since the global pandemic, many children struggled and are now facing challenges in their homes, schools, and social lives. At Goodale Wellness, LLC, we have experience with this and can help your child and your family heal and grow.
(973) 281-4529 View (973) 281-4529
Photo of Laurie Leinwand, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laurie Leinwand
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
You are in the process of taking a very important step in getting to a healthier you. Often, the first step is the most difficult. Be proud that you are now making a choice that will likely lead to healing and growth and will enable you to make more positive choices moving forward. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, having relationship difficulties, suffering from grief or loss, demonstrating communication problems or simply feeling "stuck," contact me at Three Steps Forward to discuss how I can help you. I now offer Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT). Call to inquire.
You are in the process of taking a very important step in getting to a healthier you. Often, the first step is the most difficult. Be proud that you are now making a choice that will likely lead to healing and growth and will enable you to make more positive choices moving forward. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, having relationship difficulties, suffering from grief or loss, demonstrating communication problems or simply feeling "stuck," contact me at Three Steps Forward to discuss how I can help you. I now offer Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT). Call to inquire.
(973) 453-4276 View (973) 453-4276
Photo of Richard Drobnick - Mars & Venus Counseling Center, LCSW, DCSW, CPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mars & Venus Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW, CPC
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
Morrisa specializes in family counseling and grief/ bereavement.
In Manhattan, NY and Parsippany, Denville, Teaneck, Oradell, Ridgewood, Ramsey, Paramus, NJ - Full-service counseling - Adult counseling - Couples counseling - Relationship counseling - Premarital counseling - Marriage counseling - Family counseling - Child counseling - Teen counseling - ADHD - Addiction counseling - Grief & bereavement counseling - Pet loss therapy - Stress and anxiety - Depression - Low self-esteem - Perfectionism - Worry - Indecision - Procrastination - Phobias - Assertiveness issues - Panic - Life Coaching / Daytime, evenings, and weekends available / Spanish-speaking counselors / Most insurances welcomed.
Morrisa specializes in family counseling and grief/ bereavement.
In Manhattan, NY and Parsippany, Denville, Teaneck, Oradell, Ridgewood, Ramsey, Paramus, NJ - Full-service counseling - Adult counseling - Couples counseling - Relationship counseling - Premarital counseling - Marriage counseling - Family counseling - Child counseling - Teen counseling - ADHD - Addiction counseling - Grief & bereavement counseling - Pet loss therapy - Stress and anxiety - Depression - Low self-esteem - Perfectionism - Worry - Indecision - Procrastination - Phobias - Assertiveness issues - Panic - Life Coaching / Daytime, evenings, and weekends available / Spanish-speaking counselors / Most insurances welcomed.
(973) 718-9734 View (973) 718-9734
Photo of Ciara Bello, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ciara Bello
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
I utilize a person-centered approach with my clients in which the therapeutic relationship is the driving force in helping to navigate issues involving behavior modification, depression, anxiety, grief, and parenting.
Taking the first step towards change is a challenge on its own but I believe that it does not have to be a lonely or a daunting process. Through my work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and parents in a variety of settings ranging from partial hospitalization/intensive outpatient, outpatient, and therapeutic supervised visitation, I have learned that simply a small desire for something different can be the catalyst for a profound transformation.
I utilize a person-centered approach with my clients in which the therapeutic relationship is the driving force in helping to navigate issues involving behavior modification, depression, anxiety, grief, and parenting.
Taking the first step towards change is a challenge on its own but I believe that it does not have to be a lonely or a daunting process. Through my work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and parents in a variety of settings ranging from partial hospitalization/intensive outpatient, outpatient, and therapeutic supervised visitation, I have learned that simply a small desire for something different can be the catalyst for a profound transformation.
(862) 314-6698 View (862) 314-6698
Photo of Caitlin Northern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Northern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
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Photo of Dawn T Rivera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn T Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
I help people with real fears, anxiety, depression, grief and family conflict.
Are you drained from your stressful life? Are you contemplating if therapy is the right choice for you, your teen or family? Deciding can be such a difficult choice. My goal is to create a safe environment even when it can be difficult to share your thoughts, challenges and fears. Together we can create trust, hope, goals and change. I provide a place of non judgment and collaboratively we can explore struggles that interfere with your daily life in order to find healthy solutions.
I help people with real fears, anxiety, depression, grief and family conflict.
Are you drained from your stressful life? Are you contemplating if therapy is the right choice for you, your teen or family? Deciding can be such a difficult choice. My goal is to create a safe environment even when it can be difficult to share your thoughts, challenges and fears. Together we can create trust, hope, goals and change. I provide a place of non judgment and collaboratively we can explore struggles that interfere with your daily life in order to find healthy solutions.
(973) 453-3483 View (973) 453-3483
Photo of Allison Zeis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Zeis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
"When there are no enemies within, the enemies outside cannot hurt you". ~ancient African proverb~ So many suffer everyday in silence because of their own negative inner voice. Whether you are struggling due to anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, loss, or for any other reason, know that you do not have to suffer forever and that change is possible. I work with children, adolescents, adults and families helping each to bring their strengths into focus and harmony back into their family lives.
"When there are no enemies within, the enemies outside cannot hurt you". ~ancient African proverb~ So many suffer everyday in silence because of their own negative inner voice. Whether you are struggling due to anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, loss, or for any other reason, know that you do not have to suffer forever and that change is possible. I work with children, adolescents, adults and families helping each to bring their strengths into focus and harmony back into their family lives.
(973) 755-2383 View (973) 755-2383
Photo of Lauren Manning, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Manning
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
I have worked closely with families majorly affected by chronic illness, encouraged children and teens managing their ever-changing worlds and challenges that are unique to them, and have supported adults through the many transitions and loss that occur throughout life.
Deciding to participate in the therapeutic process is a big leap for many, and it’s a win that can and should be celebrated. I hope you feel a sense of pride for taking your first step; even searching for a therapist can be challenging! With many therapists to choose from, it’s important to find the one that aligns with your goals. My objective is that from working together, we can build your inner strength and look at any obstacles you may be facing in a non-judgmental and supportive environment.
I have worked closely with families majorly affected by chronic illness, encouraged children and teens managing their ever-changing worlds and challenges that are unique to them, and have supported adults through the many transitions and loss that occur throughout life.
Deciding to participate in the therapeutic process is a big leap for many, and it’s a win that can and should be celebrated. I hope you feel a sense of pride for taking your first step; even searching for a therapist can be challenging! With many therapists to choose from, it’s important to find the one that aligns with your goals. My objective is that from working together, we can build your inner strength and look at any obstacles you may be facing in a non-judgmental and supportive environment.
(862) 375-5239 View (862) 375-5239
Photo of Richard Drobnick - Mars & Venus Counseling Center, LCSW, DCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mars & Venus Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
Morrisa specializes in family counseling and grief/ bereavement.
In Manhattan, NY and Parsippany, Denville, Teaneck, Oradell, Ridgewood, Ramsey, Paramus, NJ - Full-service counseling - Adult counseling - Couples counseling - Relationship counseling - Premarital counseling - Marriage counseling - Family counseling - Child counseling - Teen counseling - ADHD - Addiction counseling - Grief & bereavement counseling - Pet loss therapy - Stress and anxiety - Depression - Low self-esteem - Perfectionism - Worry - Indecision - Procrastination - Phobias - Assertiveness issues - Panic - Life Coaching / Daytime, evenings, and weekends available / Spanish-speaking counselors / Most insurances welcomed.
Morrisa specializes in family counseling and grief/ bereavement.
In Manhattan, NY and Parsippany, Denville, Teaneck, Oradell, Ridgewood, Ramsey, Paramus, NJ - Full-service counseling - Adult counseling - Couples counseling - Relationship counseling - Premarital counseling - Marriage counseling - Family counseling - Child counseling - Teen counseling - ADHD - Addiction counseling - Grief & bereavement counseling - Pet loss therapy - Stress and anxiety - Depression - Low self-esteem - Perfectionism - Worry - Indecision - Procrastination - Phobias - Assertiveness issues - Panic - Life Coaching / Daytime, evenings, and weekends available / Spanish-speaking counselors / Most insurances welcomed.
(973) 281-4164 View (973) 281-4164
Photo of Tara Devine, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Devine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event such as an accident, assault, natural disaster, or loss.
Trauma specialist dedicated to helping individuals and families cope with trauma symptoms. I am driven to help heal the mind and body from trauma responses.
Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event such as an accident, assault, natural disaster, or loss.
Trauma specialist dedicated to helping individuals and families cope with trauma symptoms. I am driven to help heal the mind and body from trauma responses.
(973) 791-7691 View (973) 791-7691
Photo of Helen Shasa-Rotile, MSW, LCSW, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Helen Shasa-Rotile
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCS
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in various treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment-Focus Therapies, Parenting Skills, Grief and Trauma Focused Work.
Sometimes in life we come to a crossroad, and we are unsure as to what direction we should take. Intellectually, we are pulled in one direction; yet emotionally in another. I am a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in treating adults, adolescents, and children in various settings. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, panic disorder/agoraphobia, depression, and the emotional impact related to life-changing health issues.
I have extensive training in various treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment-Focus Therapies, Parenting Skills, Grief and Trauma Focused Work.
Sometimes in life we come to a crossroad, and we are unsure as to what direction we should take. Intellectually, we are pulled in one direction; yet emotionally in another. I am a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in treating adults, adolescents, and children in various settings. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, panic disorder/agoraphobia, depression, and the emotional impact related to life-changing health issues.
(973) 287-3580 View (973) 287-3580
Photo of Lisa C Fassett, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa C Fassett
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
Fassett has nearly 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families addressing issues including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, conflict resolution, infidelity, anger, divorce, and grief.
New Genesis Counseling has been serving the community for nearly 20 years by providing Counseling services to individuals, couples, and families of those suffering from stress, anxiety & depression, anger, marital conflict, divorce care, parenting, adolescent issues, as well other unique areas of distress or impairment.
Fassett has nearly 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families addressing issues including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, conflict resolution, infidelity, anger, divorce, and grief.
New Genesis Counseling has been serving the community for nearly 20 years by providing Counseling services to individuals, couples, and families of those suffering from stress, anxiety & depression, anger, marital conflict, divorce care, parenting, adolescent issues, as well other unique areas of distress or impairment.
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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.