Grief Therapists in Essex Fells, NJ

Photo of Sandra Trzanowski, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Trzanowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Essex Fells, NJ 07021
I look forward to working with you to help break debilitating cycles, whether you are seeking support with marital conflict, grief, trauma, anxiety I am committed to you and your growth.
Do you feel stuck? Disconnected? I believe the potential for happiness and fulfillment in both one's relationship with themselves and others is universal. Through Emotionally Focused Therapy I have been able to help couples/individuals move through negative patterns that often leave one stuck and can lead to anger, resentment and self-criticism. Have you experienced a traumatic event and are looking to heal? I have been trained in EMDR which is a therapy designed to resolve unprocessed traumatic memories. EMDR enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life.
I look forward to working with you to help break debilitating cycles, whether you are seeking support with marital conflict, grief, trauma, anxiety I am committed to you and your growth.
Do you feel stuck? Disconnected? I believe the potential for happiness and fulfillment in both one's relationship with themselves and others is universal. Through Emotionally Focused Therapy I have been able to help couples/individuals move through negative patterns that often leave one stuck and can lead to anger, resentment and self-criticism. Have you experienced a traumatic event and are looking to heal? I have been trained in EMDR which is a therapy designed to resolve unprocessed traumatic memories. EMDR enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life.
(973) 440-2269 View (973) 440-2269
Photo of Cindy T Concannon - Mary Jo Rolli Codey Center, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Counselor
Mary Jo Rolli Codey Center
Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Essex Fells, NJ 07021
Feeling overwhelmed? At The Center, we support adults, children, teens, and seniors facing stress, life changes, relationship issues, grief, or anxiety. Our warm, empathetic clinicians guide you through life’s challenges with talk therapy and creative expression. You don’t need to be “going through something” to benefit—engage with us for emotional growth and well-being. We’re also Aphasia-friendly, ensuring everyone can find the support they need. Come to The Center and start your journey towards healing and resilience.
Feeling overwhelmed? At The Center, we support adults, children, teens, and seniors facing stress, life changes, relationship issues, grief, or anxiety. Our warm, empathetic clinicians guide you through life’s challenges with talk therapy and creative expression. You don’t need to be “going through something” to benefit—engage with us for emotional growth and well-being. We’re also Aphasia-friendly, ensuring everyone can find the support they need. Come to The Center and start your journey towards healing and resilience.
(973) 547-1839 View (973) 547-1839
Photo of Sue Waldman, MA, LPC, BCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sue Waldman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Essex Fells, NJ 07021
Do you want to feel better about yourself and your life? Are you challenged with relationship issues, low self -esteem or your body image? Are you suffering from grief, anxiety or depression? I am easy to talk to. I establish a safe, trustworthy relationship in which you can be yourself and express your deepest fears and concerns. Together, we examine self-defeating thoughts & behavior, identify life-transforming choices, learn new ways to manage disruptive feelings, cultivate effective communication skills and work on discovering joy, intimacy and meaning in life. Most importantly, I will help you love who you are and the life you are living.
Do you want to feel better about yourself and your life? Are you challenged with relationship issues, low self -esteem or your body image? Are you suffering from grief, anxiety or depression? I am easy to talk to. I establish a safe, trustworthy relationship in which you can be yourself and express your deepest fears and concerns. Together, we examine self-defeating thoughts & behavior, identify life-transforming choices, learn new ways to manage disruptive feelings, cultivate effective communication skills and work on discovering joy, intimacy and meaning in life. Most importantly, I will help you love who you are and the life you are living.
(973) 857-9090 View (973) 857-9090
Photo of Amanda Marie Aster-McKenna, PsyD, Psychologist
Amanda Marie Aster-McKenna
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Essex Fells, NJ 07021
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of adults suffering from anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, & substance abuse difficulties. I work from an evidence-based framework with emphasis on mindfulness practice, acceptance of difficult internal experiences, and valued-based living to increase quality of life. This approach to treatment is known as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT proposes that painful human experiences and life's struggles are all inevitable, and teaches how to learn acceptance of inevitable human difficulties and continuing to live a rich and meaningful life.
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of adults suffering from anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, & substance abuse difficulties. I work from an evidence-based framework with emphasis on mindfulness practice, acceptance of difficult internal experiences, and valued-based living to increase quality of life. This approach to treatment is known as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT proposes that painful human experiences and life's struggles are all inevitable, and teaches how to learn acceptance of inevitable human difficulties and continuing to live a rich and meaningful life.
(973) 528-7403 View (973) 528-7403
Photo of Tamara And Mark Sofair-Fisch - Relationship Solutions NJ, PhD, LCADC, Psychologist
Relationship Solutions NJ
Psychologist, PhD, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Essex Fells, NJ 07021
We are highly experienced (30 years), very caring, and effective psychologists. Clients often remark that it is a pleasure to be treated in a very personable manner. We determine with whom you will meet at our first phone conversation. For example, Dr. Mark is licensed in NJ as a Psychologist and a Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. At your initial visit, either Dr. Mark or Dr. Tamara will meet with you to discuss your presenting concerns in a comprehensive manner. We evaluate your problems, strengths, history and goals. We then develop a treatment plan that is unique for your needs.
We are highly experienced (30 years), very caring, and effective psychologists. Clients often remark that it is a pleasure to be treated in a very personable manner. We determine with whom you will meet at our first phone conversation. For example, Dr. Mark is licensed in NJ as a Psychologist and a Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. At your initial visit, either Dr. Mark or Dr. Tamara will meet with you to discuss your presenting concerns in a comprehensive manner. We evaluate your problems, strengths, history and goals. We then develop a treatment plan that is unique for your needs.
(609) 503-7042 View (609) 503-7042
Photo of Renee Moffett, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Moffett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Essex Fells, NJ 07021  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with relationships, work stress or managing your daily life? Do you feel uncomfortable with your thoughts, feelings, moods and emotions? Are you lost on how to cope and manage life stresses? Are you struggling with alcohol or substances? Through treatment there can be inner clarity, confidence, long-lasting skills and strategies. This can improve your relationship to yourself, others, resolve career-related issues and improve your ability to cope with life stressors.
Are you struggling with relationships, work stress or managing your daily life? Do you feel uncomfortable with your thoughts, feelings, moods and emotions? Are you lost on how to cope and manage life stresses? Are you struggling with alcohol or substances? Through treatment there can be inner clarity, confidence, long-lasting skills and strategies. This can improve your relationship to yourself, others, resolve career-related issues and improve your ability to cope with life stressors.
(732) 538-8082 View (732) 538-8082

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Connie Lieberman, LSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Connie Lieberman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Caldwell, NJ 07006
I have a special passion for working with and encouraging people experiencing depression, anxiety, loss, grief and suicidal ideation in a way that helps them feel that they are not alone in this struggle and that there is hope.
I view counseling as an opportunity to come alongside my clients and partner with them as they journey toward discovering a life of meaning and purpose. Through empathy, humor, and warmth, I aim to create and hold a safe space for my clients to begin the journey inward. My biggest joy is walking alongside my clients as they begin to realize their strength and resilience to find solutions to the issues they are facing.
I have a special passion for working with and encouraging people experiencing depression, anxiety, loss, grief and suicidal ideation in a way that helps them feel that they are not alone in this struggle and that there is hope.
I view counseling as an opportunity to come alongside my clients and partner with them as they journey toward discovering a life of meaning and purpose. Through empathy, humor, and warmth, I aim to create and hold a safe space for my clients to begin the journey inward. My biggest joy is walking alongside my clients as they begin to realize their strength and resilience to find solutions to the issues they are facing.
(732) 795-5790 View (732) 795-5790
Photo of Alice K Forsyth, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alice K Forsyth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
My approach to clinical practice is to create a warm, compassionate place where you can be heard, and heal. The process unfolds at your pace by using a variety of treatment modalities that best fit your specific goals and problem solving strengths. Human beings come from all walks of life, and share all manner of painful human experiences. Psychodynamic therapy can help address anxiety, depression, anger, caregiver stress, sexual identity, and painful loss from divorce, death, separation through foster care and adoption. From employment crisis to mid-life crisis, let me help you restore the peace of mind you deserve.
My approach to clinical practice is to create a warm, compassionate place where you can be heard, and heal. The process unfolds at your pace by using a variety of treatment modalities that best fit your specific goals and problem solving strengths. Human beings come from all walks of life, and share all manner of painful human experiences. Psychodynamic therapy can help address anxiety, depression, anger, caregiver stress, sexual identity, and painful loss from divorce, death, separation through foster care and adoption. From employment crisis to mid-life crisis, let me help you restore the peace of mind you deserve.
(973) 255-8206 View (973) 255-8206
Photo of Ann Rasmussen, PsyD, Psychologist
Ann Rasmussen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
I will skillfully help you navigate the greatest struggles of your life, and emerge empowered to move beyond whatever patterns are holding you back. Whether it's external pain (trauma, betrayal, death, illness) or internal (anxiety, depression, shame, self-sabotage), I approach all with compassionate accepting care. I am not passively silent- I will endow you with self-empowering techniques, while also coaxing forth your best inner resources. I am LGBTQ affirming. We will create an open, authentic bond through which you can access and honor your own truths, and emerge confident, self-aligned, resourced, and relieved of symptoms.
I will skillfully help you navigate the greatest struggles of your life, and emerge empowered to move beyond whatever patterns are holding you back. Whether it's external pain (trauma, betrayal, death, illness) or internal (anxiety, depression, shame, self-sabotage), I approach all with compassionate accepting care. I am not passively silent- I will endow you with self-empowering techniques, while also coaxing forth your best inner resources. I am LGBTQ affirming. We will create an open, authentic bond through which you can access and honor your own truths, and emerge confident, self-aligned, resourced, and relieved of symptoms.
(973) 988-1540 View (973) 988-1540
Photo of Ginny Laracy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ginny Laracy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
I have experience working with a variety of populations: people with eating disorders, those who struggle with addictions, adolescents, people who are older and adjusting to aging, and people struggling with loss.
I hope for my clients to walk away from therapy feeling like they can handle whatever bumps they may encounter in life. This can happen by becoming aware of habits and patterns that are problematic; fully exploring and understanding them spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and then coming up with alternative ways of navigating. I offer short and long term treatment options as well as a sliding scale fee when appropriate. I enjoy teaching meditation so that people can move through the world from a place of mindfulness.
I have experience working with a variety of populations: people with eating disorders, those who struggle with addictions, adolescents, people who are older and adjusting to aging, and people struggling with loss.
I hope for my clients to walk away from therapy feeling like they can handle whatever bumps they may encounter in life. This can happen by becoming aware of habits and patterns that are problematic; fully exploring and understanding them spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and then coming up with alternative ways of navigating. I offer short and long term treatment options as well as a sliding scale fee when appropriate. I enjoy teaching meditation so that people can move through the world from a place of mindfulness.
(973) 520-0071 View (973) 520-0071
Photo of Karen Herrera - Braverman, LCSW, DTR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Herrera - Braverman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DTR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
I specialize in grief, relationship issues, marital counseling, depression and life's transitions.
Stress has become a daily part of life and unexpected life events happen. Rarely are we taught how to manage our stress. You may be struggling with a marital or relationship issue, a loss, anxiety or a life change. I am a very experienced therapist and a deeply compassionate person..... with a lot of life experience. Together we will figure out what you are going to need to heal. I will be with you ever step of the way. I take my work very seriously and am committed to helping you.
I specialize in grief, relationship issues, marital counseling, depression and life's transitions.
Stress has become a daily part of life and unexpected life events happen. Rarely are we taught how to manage our stress. You may be struggling with a marital or relationship issue, a loss, anxiety or a life change. I am a very experienced therapist and a deeply compassionate person..... with a lot of life experience. Together we will figure out what you are going to need to heal. I will be with you ever step of the way. I take my work very seriously and am committed to helping you.
(973) 671-8241 View (973) 671-8241
Photo of Jolene Winsor, MA,  LAC,  CTP, MAT
Jolene Winsor
Associate Counselor, MA, LAC, CTP, MAT
Verified Verified
North Caldwell, NJ 07006  (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 Laurye Abraham, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurye Abraham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Are you dealing with a life change, anxiety, feelings of loss? Feeling stuck and wanting to make positive changes in your life but have no idea where to start? Seeking help is the first step, this is where change begins. I work with adolescents, adults and seniors from diverse backgrounds dealing with a wide range of clinical issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, and adjustments of all kinds.
Are you dealing with a life change, anxiety, feelings of loss? Feeling stuck and wanting to make positive changes in your life but have no idea where to start? Seeking help is the first step, this is where change begins. I work with adolescents, adults and seniors from diverse backgrounds dealing with a wide range of clinical issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, and adjustments of all kinds.
(973) 841-8796 View (973) 841-8796
Photo of Anna Kirshblum, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Kirshblum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052  (Online Only)
As a trained bereavement therapist with a strong background in trauma treatment I can provide a safe environment through a combination of insight oriented therapy, mindfullness and relaxation techniques and focus on future goals in which to explore your thoughts and emotions.
Have you experienced the loss of a person, a pregnancy, a relationship or dream? Grief effects the mind, the body and the spirit. It can feel overwhelming and without end. Family and friends mean well but often want you to "move on". Sometimes it is easier to just be quiet but it can be a lonely, anxious place to be.
As a trained bereavement therapist with a strong background in trauma treatment I can provide a safe environment through a combination of insight oriented therapy, mindfullness and relaxation techniques and focus on future goals in which to explore your thoughts and emotions.
Have you experienced the loss of a person, a pregnancy, a relationship or dream? Grief effects the mind, the body and the spirit. It can feel overwhelming and without end. Family and friends mean well but often want you to "move on". Sometimes it is easier to just be quiet but it can be a lonely, anxious place to be.
(973) 834-8140 View (973) 834-8140
Photo of Alla Rachel Shapiro, LMHC, LPC, CCPT-I, Counselor
Alla Rachel Shapiro
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CCPT-I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with debilitating anxiety because of chronic family and relationship stress, and perfectionism? Are you trying to work through grief and loss of someone, or even an opportunity you waited so long for? You have come to the right place. I can give you a space in which you can process your emotions and find clarity again. Your experiences shape how you treat yourself and how you have relationships. I wonder if you understand why you are repeating relationship patterns in your life. Therapy can help you understand and also greatly improve the quality of your life.
Are you struggling with debilitating anxiety because of chronic family and relationship stress, and perfectionism? Are you trying to work through grief and loss of someone, or even an opportunity you waited so long for? You have come to the right place. I can give you a space in which you can process your emotions and find clarity again. Your experiences shape how you treat yourself and how you have relationships. I wonder if you understand why you are repeating relationship patterns in your life. Therapy can help you understand and also greatly improve the quality of your life.
(347) 801-0129 View (347) 801-0129
Photo of Brooke Myers Sorger, PhD, Psychologist
Brooke Myers Sorger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
She is specialty trained in the area of palliative care medicine with focus on chronic and potentially life threatening illness, death, and grief and the psychological ramifications for patients and their families.
Finding yourself is a profound process which has no end. Dr. Sorger invites you to join her in a search for your organic self. Do you wonder where the truest parts of yourself reside? Do you wonder how you became so bitter and broken down by a life that you intended to live quite differently? We are our conditioning and our defenses. As a result, we can learn new ways of being and unlearn old ways. Dr. Sorger believes that the teacher and the taught together create the teachings. Come and create the life that you have envisioned.
She is specialty trained in the area of palliative care medicine with focus on chronic and potentially life threatening illness, death, and grief and the psychological ramifications for patients and their families.
Finding yourself is a profound process which has no end. Dr. Sorger invites you to join her in a search for your organic self. Do you wonder where the truest parts of yourself reside? Do you wonder how you became so bitter and broken down by a life that you intended to live quite differently? We are our conditioning and our defenses. As a result, we can learn new ways of being and unlearn old ways. Dr. Sorger believes that the teacher and the taught together create the teachings. Come and create the life that you have envisioned.
(973) 797-9057 View (973) 797-9057
Photo of Laurel N Raissman, MA, EdS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laurel N Raissman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, EdS, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
I work with a wide variety of issues, from separation, divorce, grief, ptsd, aging parents, and other life issues.
My style is highly interactive, focused on communication, and achieving client goals. It is important to me that my clients are comfortable with me and know that I am available to them. Making life changes is not always easy, but I believe in human resiliency and strength. As an example of this philosophy, I have changed my name back to my maiden name. My mother passed away from Alzheimer's disease, and for this reason, to honor her, I wanted to take my name back... human resiliency!!!
I work with a wide variety of issues, from separation, divorce, grief, ptsd, aging parents, and other life issues.
My style is highly interactive, focused on communication, and achieving client goals. It is important to me that my clients are comfortable with me and know that I am available to them. Making life changes is not always easy, but I believe in human resiliency and strength. As an example of this philosophy, I have changed my name back to my maiden name. My mother passed away from Alzheimer's disease, and for this reason, to honor her, I wanted to take my name back... human resiliency!!!
(973) 310-2005 View (973) 310-2005
Photo of Andrew D Evangelista, LCSW, LCADC, DRCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew D Evangelista
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, DRCC
Verified Verified
Caldwell, NJ 07006
Specializing with adults, Men/women teens and athletes. Many people have mental health, substance use, learning disorders, anger, grief and stress related characteristics that continually get us sidetracked. These patterns/habits/choices require adjustments and re-setting our goals to achieve a healthy and happy lifestyle. I have worked in many different modalities 40 +yrs. outpatient, hospitals, schools and drug alcohol rehabilitation with adults and teens. Working with individuals, families and couples. Using mindfulness/ mind/body techniques, has created a total awareness and balance in my practice. Limited days and hours
Specializing with adults, Men/women teens and athletes. Many people have mental health, substance use, learning disorders, anger, grief and stress related characteristics that continually get us sidetracked. These patterns/habits/choices require adjustments and re-setting our goals to achieve a healthy and happy lifestyle. I have worked in many different modalities 40 +yrs. outpatient, hospitals, schools and drug alcohol rehabilitation with adults and teens. Working with individuals, families and couples. Using mindfulness/ mind/body techniques, has created a total awareness and balance in my practice. Limited days and hours
(973) 355-6440 View (973) 355-6440
Photo of Elizabeth Arnone, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Arnone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
My experience has been in various medical settings including a major hospital specializing in oncology an in hospice programs with clients coping with acute illness as well as with bereaved loved ones after a loss.
I provide a supportive empathic environment where clients feel safe to explore the complicated emotions that accompany losses whether through death, divorce, or chronic illness. Life losses can be overwhelming and at times result in depression and anxiety however with supportive therapy this grief can be overcome. I work closely with loved ones and caregivers in cases of acute and chronic illness; who may be faced with conflicting emotions and complex decision making.
My experience has been in various medical settings including a major hospital specializing in oncology an in hospice programs with clients coping with acute illness as well as with bereaved loved ones after a loss.
I provide a supportive empathic environment where clients feel safe to explore the complicated emotions that accompany losses whether through death, divorce, or chronic illness. Life losses can be overwhelming and at times result in depression and anxiety however with supportive therapy this grief can be overcome. I work closely with loved ones and caregivers in cases of acute and chronic illness; who may be faced with conflicting emotions and complex decision making.
(201) 928-5116 View (201) 928-5116
Photo of Susanne Ciancio, LPC, CCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susanne Ciancio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052  (Online Only)
My most successfull work has been with clients struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, unresolved grief and all types of boundary issues including: assertiveness training, power/control issues, dependent personality, parenting, co-dependency and conflict resolution. Marital therapy and interpersonal relationship issues are also a specialty which includes work, peer, dating and family issues. People need support, guidance and a working connection with a professional who has experience and can help them navigate through life's struggles. I help people untangle knots and long held beliefs that are holding them back.
My most successfull work has been with clients struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, unresolved grief and all types of boundary issues including: assertiveness training, power/control issues, dependent personality, parenting, co-dependency and conflict resolution. Marital therapy and interpersonal relationship issues are also a specialty which includes work, peer, dating and family issues. People need support, guidance and a working connection with a professional who has experience and can help them navigate through life's struggles. I help people untangle knots and long held beliefs that are holding them back.
(973) 435-4850 View (973) 435-4850

See more therapy options for Essex Fells

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.