Photo of James Hutchison, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
James Hutchison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ringoes, NJ 08551
I have been a facilitator for workshops on weight loss, sex addiction and wives of addicts.
I work with clients who see that their Christian beliefs are a big part of who they are, and are looking for someone who understands and respects that. I work with all individuals, couples, and preteen-adult boys. I specialize in those who are struggling with emotional and relational issues, as well as, ADHD, sex addiction, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief/ loss, abandonment, anger fear, divorce, and weight loss. I also work with parenting skills, and child behavior problems.
I have been a facilitator for workshops on weight loss, sex addiction and wives of addicts.
I work with clients who see that their Christian beliefs are a big part of who they are, and are looking for someone who understands and respects that. I work with all individuals, couples, and preteen-adult boys. I specialize in those who are struggling with emotional and relational issues, as well as, ADHD, sex addiction, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief/ loss, abandonment, anger fear, divorce, and weight loss. I also work with parenting skills, and child behavior problems.
(908) 428-4016 View (908) 428-4016
Photo of Carole Ammann, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carole Ammann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ringoes, NJ 08551
“Create a new therapy for every patient” (Irvin Yalom, The Gift of Therapy, 2002) No two individuals are the same and so each therapeutic relationship is distinct. The connection between client and therapist is a unique one, and unlike any other human experience. My years of practice have taught me that the development of trust provides the framework for change to occur. Whether it be a need to understand yourself better, deal with a transition or loss, navigate relationship issues, change unhealthy patterns or better manage debilitating symptoms associated with anxiety or depression, therapy can provide the environment and tools.
“Create a new therapy for every patient” (Irvin Yalom, The Gift of Therapy, 2002) No two individuals are the same and so each therapeutic relationship is distinct. The connection between client and therapist is a unique one, and unlike any other human experience. My years of practice have taught me that the development of trust provides the framework for change to occur. Whether it be a need to understand yourself better, deal with a transition or loss, navigate relationship issues, change unhealthy patterns or better manage debilitating symptoms associated with anxiety or depression, therapy can provide the environment and tools.
(908) 402-3803 View (908) 402-3803
Photo of Noemi A Bolton, MSSM, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Noemi A Bolton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSM, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ringoes, NJ 08551
Stuck in a rut? There's a way out. I specialize in sex therapy and trauma. I have extensive experience in individual, couples, family and group psychotherapy. I use methods that examine the root causes of behavioral and emotional patterns which lead to depression, anxiety, alcohol dependence, substance abuse, thought distortions, relationship attachments, erectile dysfunction, or vaginal anesthesia. Where medication is ineffective, intensive therapy sessions have the power to change the paralyzing state of our psychological and physical condition. The causes may be situational, easily detected, but others may be deeper, stored in our rigidified muscles, buried in the remote recess of our minds.
Stuck in a rut? There's a way out. I specialize in sex therapy and trauma. I have extensive experience in individual, couples, family and group psychotherapy. I use methods that examine the root causes of behavioral and emotional patterns which lead to depression, anxiety, alcohol dependence, substance abuse, thought distortions, relationship attachments, erectile dysfunction, or vaginal anesthesia. Where medication is ineffective, intensive therapy sessions have the power to change the paralyzing state of our psychological and physical condition. The causes may be situational, easily detected, but others may be deeper, stored in our rigidified muscles, buried in the remote recess of our minds.
(908) 238-3971 View (908) 238-3971
Photo of Ronald Gonzalez, MA, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ronald Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Ringoes, NJ 08551  (Online Only)
New Horizons Psychological Services, LLC. was founded by Ron Gonzalez, LPC and Nicole Waldron, Psy.D. We are a dynamic Telehealth therapy practice offering bilingual services and providing an array of psychological and counseling services to meet the needs of our clients. We treat adults, couples, and families in order to address and help resolve problems with anxiety, stress, anger, and forensic related issues, while enhancing communication and strengthening relationships. We believe that therapy is a collaborative process with the therapist and client working together to establish goals and achieve desired outcomes.
New Horizons Psychological Services, LLC. was founded by Ron Gonzalez, LPC and Nicole Waldron, Psy.D. We are a dynamic Telehealth therapy practice offering bilingual services and providing an array of psychological and counseling services to meet the needs of our clients. We treat adults, couples, and families in order to address and help resolve problems with anxiety, stress, anger, and forensic related issues, while enhancing communication and strengthening relationships. We believe that therapy is a collaborative process with the therapist and client working together to establish goals and achieve desired outcomes.
(908) 271-4184 View (908) 271-4184
Photo of Erin M McDonough, PhD, Psychologist
Erin M McDonough
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ringoes, NJ 08551
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist and neuropsychologist who specializes in helping learners of all ages understand their strengths and difficulties so that they can reach their highest potential. I do this by providing neuropsychological or psychoeducational assessments. This typically includes measures of cognitive abilities, attention, executive functions, and academic skills as well as social-emotional functioning. We tailor our assessments to the unique needs of the individual learner.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist and neuropsychologist who specializes in helping learners of all ages understand their strengths and difficulties so that they can reach their highest potential. I do this by providing neuropsychological or psychoeducational assessments. This typically includes measures of cognitive abilities, attention, executive functions, and academic skills as well as social-emotional functioning. We tailor our assessments to the unique needs of the individual learner.
(609) 451-3706 View (609) 451-3706
Photo of Brian Buczynski, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian Buczynski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Ringoes, NJ 08551
Not accepting new clients
“Brian’s help is sought when behavioral approaches fail. Whether for anxious/depressive/obsessive/compulsive symptoms, relational/sexual issues, or a sense of fragmenting, emptiness or hopelessness. Brian works with skill & sensitivity to help one open to new possibilities, & catalyze profound change. While simultaneously finding acceptance for oneself - as one is, & where one is….. This is facilitated by deep therapeutic listening, & fostering insight into unconscious conflicts, unwanted patterns, & areas of stuckness—that sabotage even our best intentions to change or become happy—to be more real or feel more alive.”SM,TM
“Brian’s help is sought when behavioral approaches fail. Whether for anxious/depressive/obsessive/compulsive symptoms, relational/sexual issues, or a sense of fragmenting, emptiness or hopelessness. Brian works with skill & sensitivity to help one open to new possibilities, & catalyze profound change. While simultaneously finding acceptance for oneself - as one is, & where one is….. This is facilitated by deep therapeutic listening, & fostering insight into unconscious conflicts, unwanted patterns, & areas of stuckness—that sabotage even our best intentions to change or become happy—to be more real or feel more alive.”SM,TM
(267) 843-8272 View (267) 843-8272

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Danielle M. Spinella, EdS, LAC, Counselor
Danielle M. Spinella
Counselor, EdS, LAC
Verified Verified
Flemington, NJ 08822
I specialize in providing counseling services to clients who are 12 years of age and older, experiencing grief and loss, divorce, bullying, life changes, and low self-esteem. I have extensive experience working with teens and young adults navigating life's many obstacles. My objective is to create a safe and empathetic environment where clients can freely express themselves, without the fear of being judged or shamed. I'm here to support you through your struggles and help you find the strength and resilience to overcome them.
I specialize in providing counseling services to clients who are 12 years of age and older, experiencing grief and loss, divorce, bullying, life changes, and low self-esteem. I have extensive experience working with teens and young adults navigating life's many obstacles. My objective is to create a safe and empathetic environment where clients can freely express themselves, without the fear of being judged or shamed. I'm here to support you through your struggles and help you find the strength and resilience to overcome them.
(908) 373-5486 View (908) 373-5486
Photo of Barbara Cole-Kiernan, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Cole-Kiernan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Lambertville, NJ 08530
My experience and training include many psychological modalities as well as a strong background in hospice, bereavement, meditation and yoga.
Are you in transition? Feeling stuck in your life or relationship? Have your usual coping strategies become ineffective, leaving you feeling anxious, fearful, depressed or angry? Do you feel that there must be more to life than what you are presently experiencing? Are you experiencing emotional upheaval that is impacting the quality of your life as a result of critical or chronic illness ?
My experience and training include many psychological modalities as well as a strong background in hospice, bereavement, meditation and yoga.
Are you in transition? Feeling stuck in your life or relationship? Have your usual coping strategies become ineffective, leaving you feeling anxious, fearful, depressed or angry? Do you feel that there must be more to life than what you are presently experiencing? Are you experiencing emotional upheaval that is impacting the quality of your life as a result of critical or chronic illness ?
(609) 643-4498 View (609) 643-4498
Photo of Brielle D'Angelo, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brielle D'Angelo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Readington, NJ 08870  (Online Only)
I am a Grief & Loss Professional as well as a Pet Bereavement Specialist who can support you through your losses and help navigate any of life's transitions.
I am so glad you're here! You've found yourself here because your life has changed as you know it. Feelings of anticipation, struggling to function day to day, being plagued by sadness and fighting off disbelief all seems to be unrelenting at times. Perhaps you have just experienced a tremendous loss or even some life changes that you are having a hard time wrapping your head around. You feel strongly about wanting to gain back control of your life all while having a listening ear who finally "gets it." You no longer have to feel alone in your experiences while I help guide you to untangle what has been laid out in front of you.
I am a Grief & Loss Professional as well as a Pet Bereavement Specialist who can support you through your losses and help navigate any of life's transitions.
I am so glad you're here! You've found yourself here because your life has changed as you know it. Feelings of anticipation, struggling to function day to day, being plagued by sadness and fighting off disbelief all seems to be unrelenting at times. Perhaps you have just experienced a tremendous loss or even some life changes that you are having a hard time wrapping your head around. You feel strongly about wanting to gain back control of your life all while having a listening ear who finally "gets it." You no longer have to feel alone in your experiences while I help guide you to untangle what has been laid out in front of you.
(908) 304-9475 View (908) 304-9475
Photo of Janet McCulloch - Janet McCulloch at Village Counseling Services, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet McCulloch at Village Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Flemington, NJ 08822
I have facilitated a Grief Support Group for many years and witnessed people rebuild lives after unimaginable hardships.
Learning to grieve losses and adapt to life changes are challenges we will all face. A major loss such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or loss of a job can be devastating. Creating a new chapter in your life can be overwhelming. Working with a skilled, compassionate therapist in a safe, nurturing environment can provide critical support and guidance. My goal is to help you find light and hope during a dark time and to teach new coping skills to allow for healing and personal growth. Reaching out is the hardest part. I’d love to talk to you about your unique situation and needs.
I have facilitated a Grief Support Group for many years and witnessed people rebuild lives after unimaginable hardships.
Learning to grieve losses and adapt to life changes are challenges we will all face. A major loss such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or loss of a job can be devastating. Creating a new chapter in your life can be overwhelming. Working with a skilled, compassionate therapist in a safe, nurturing environment can provide critical support and guidance. My goal is to help you find light and hope during a dark time and to teach new coping skills to allow for healing and personal growth. Reaching out is the hardest part. I’d love to talk to you about your unique situation and needs.
(609) 844-0452 x713 View (609) 844-0452 x713
Photo of Susan Rovello, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Rovello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lambertville, NJ 08530
Are you going through challenges or changes in your life that you aren't quite sure how to handle? If so, you are not alone. We all experience upsetting and painful times, though the sources may vary. Whether the problem is a relationship, anxiety, depression, the loss of a loved one, or a life stage transition, hope and help are just a phone call away. With decades of experience, I provide a safe and supportive place to explore your concerns.
Are you going through challenges or changes in your life that you aren't quite sure how to handle? If so, you are not alone. We all experience upsetting and painful times, though the sources may vary. Whether the problem is a relationship, anxiety, depression, the loss of a loved one, or a life stage transition, hope and help are just a phone call away. With decades of experience, I provide a safe and supportive place to explore your concerns.
(609) 397-4173 View (609) 397-4173
Cynthia V Kates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Flemington, NJ 08822
Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed? Is your mood in the dustbin: depression and anxiety becoming too incapacitating? Has your relationship/marriage taken a turn for the worse? Are you at wit's end with personal/professional roadblocks? Are sadness and grief too much to bear? Are you worried about older family-member-concerns? I can help! My 25 + years of practice and expertise - using many approaches such as cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, relationship-focused, health and wellness, communication skills, give you the opportunity to develop better skills for successful and meaningful change.
Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed? Is your mood in the dustbin: depression and anxiety becoming too incapacitating? Has your relationship/marriage taken a turn for the worse? Are you at wit's end with personal/professional roadblocks? Are sadness and grief too much to bear? Are you worried about older family-member-concerns? I can help! My 25 + years of practice and expertise - using many approaches such as cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, relationship-focused, health and wellness, communication skills, give you the opportunity to develop better skills for successful and meaningful change.
(609) 385-0533 View (609) 385-0533
Photo of Carli Edling, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP, CAGCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carli Edling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP, CAGCS
Verified Verified
Hopewell, NJ 08525  (Online Only)
I specialize in Addiction, Grief and Loss, Trauma, but also life.
Choosing to get started with a therapist can be awkward and daunting. I try to make that process less uncomfortable and feel like not another "thing on the to do list" but something rather you can enjoy. I have worked with all ages, and all walks of life. I believe that we have the answers and solutions within ourselves, sometimes we just cannot access them, or we get stuck in what I like to call "ruts" and roadblocks. I also believe we as people are inevitably strong, and sometimes just need someone to believe in us and remind us of our strengths and potential.
I specialize in Addiction, Grief and Loss, Trauma, but also life.
Choosing to get started with a therapist can be awkward and daunting. I try to make that process less uncomfortable and feel like not another "thing on the to do list" but something rather you can enjoy. I have worked with all ages, and all walks of life. I believe that we have the answers and solutions within ourselves, sometimes we just cannot access them, or we get stuck in what I like to call "ruts" and roadblocks. I also believe we as people are inevitably strong, and sometimes just need someone to believe in us and remind us of our strengths and potential.
(609) 757-9027 View (609) 757-9027
Photo of Julia A. Little, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia A. Little
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hopewell, NJ 08525  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients impacted by a cancer diagnosis, past or recent grief and loss, and any stressful life changes.
There are times in life we all need someone to talk to. Whether you struggle with anxiety or depression or are trying to cope with a recent change or loss, no concern is too big to work through together. I will provide a safe, comfortable, private space for you to unload your worries, untangle your conflicts, and plan and dream for your future. Most importantly, I will listen to you, respect you, and care about you. I look forward to hearing your story, and helping you craft the next chapter.
I specialize in working with clients impacted by a cancer diagnosis, past or recent grief and loss, and any stressful life changes.
There are times in life we all need someone to talk to. Whether you struggle with anxiety or depression or are trying to cope with a recent change or loss, no concern is too big to work through together. I will provide a safe, comfortable, private space for you to unload your worries, untangle your conflicts, and plan and dream for your future. Most importantly, I will listen to you, respect you, and care about you. I look forward to hearing your story, and helping you craft the next chapter.
View
Photo of Lauren Fallat, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Fallat
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844  (Online Only)
Individuals, families and couples often reach out to me during moments in their lives in which there is a strong need to feel seen, heard and understood. For individuals across the lifespan and coping with varied life experiences, I offer an authentic and engaged approach to therapy that creates a trusting environment for exploration of issues related to coping with major life transitions and changes (divorce, job changes, loss of a relationship), grief and loss, emotion regulation, coping with traumatic loss and complex trauma, aging, parenting and caregiving, relationship struggles, depression and anxiety.
Individuals, families and couples often reach out to me during moments in their lives in which there is a strong need to feel seen, heard and understood. For individuals across the lifespan and coping with varied life experiences, I offer an authentic and engaged approach to therapy that creates a trusting environment for exploration of issues related to coping with major life transitions and changes (divorce, job changes, loss of a relationship), grief and loss, emotion regulation, coping with traumatic loss and complex trauma, aging, parenting and caregiving, relationship struggles, depression and anxiety.
(908) 857-4422 View (908) 857-4422
Photo of Christina Taylor - Creative Arts Therapies Services, LLC, ATR-BC, LPAT, LCAT, LPC, PMH-C
Creative Arts Therapies Services, LLC
ATR-BC, LPAT, LCAT, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
Christina specializes in grief/ loss, disordered mood & personality, trauma & attachment disruption issues.
What is Art Therapy? This is the number one question asked of us. The American Art Therapy Association defines Art Therapy as, "a mental health profession in which clients, facilitated by the art therapist, use art media, the creative process, & the resulting artwork to explore their feelings, reconcile emotional conflicts, foster self-awareness, manage behavior & addictions, develop social skills, improve reality orientation, reduce anxiety, & increase self-esteem. The creative process lends itself readily to meeting the individual where they are at in the present moment.
Christina specializes in grief/ loss, disordered mood & personality, trauma & attachment disruption issues.
What is Art Therapy? This is the number one question asked of us. The American Art Therapy Association defines Art Therapy as, "a mental health profession in which clients, facilitated by the art therapist, use art media, the creative process, & the resulting artwork to explore their feelings, reconcile emotional conflicts, foster self-awareness, manage behavior & addictions, develop social skills, improve reality orientation, reduce anxiety, & increase self-esteem. The creative process lends itself readily to meeting the individual where they are at in the present moment.
(609) 336-4003 View (609) 336-4003
Photo of Christine M Ruth, MDiv, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine M Ruth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
My 21 years of experience as a licensed marriage and family therapist, divorce discernment counselor, spiritual guide, and hospice grief counselor has equipped me to help a wide variety of adults, teens, and couples recover from "stuckness" and depression, find deeper relational intimacy, and discern steps to move forward in their current relationship.
Are you feeling stuck in a difficult circumstance or a relational conflict? Do you find yourself limited by fear, anxiety, lack of motivation or clarity? Are you discerning whether or not to stay in a current relationship? This can be a painful space. I believe we all have access to deep, still waters within us that can guide and direct us to deeper peace and clarity. Sometimes, we struggle to access that "knowing part" of us. I have 20 years of helping guide men, women, couples, adolescents and families gain skills and find deeper, more peaceful waters in seasons of grief, anxiety, depression, divorce & couple's conflict.
My 21 years of experience as a licensed marriage and family therapist, divorce discernment counselor, spiritual guide, and hospice grief counselor has equipped me to help a wide variety of adults, teens, and couples recover from "stuckness" and depression, find deeper relational intimacy, and discern steps to move forward in their current relationship.
Are you feeling stuck in a difficult circumstance or a relational conflict? Do you find yourself limited by fear, anxiety, lack of motivation or clarity? Are you discerning whether or not to stay in a current relationship? This can be a painful space. I believe we all have access to deep, still waters within us that can guide and direct us to deeper peace and clarity. Sometimes, we struggle to access that "knowing part" of us. I have 20 years of helping guide men, women, couples, adolescents and families gain skills and find deeper, more peaceful waters in seasons of grief, anxiety, depression, divorce & couple's conflict.
(609) 293-2326 View (609) 293-2326
Photo of Lauren Kretzmer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Kretzmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
I am also certified as a Grief Counseling Specialist.
Like our fingerprints, there are no two people who will have the exact experiences, pain, struggles or stories. Everyone's pain will show up differently and everyone's story will have a tale that needs to be told. What is the same for most people is the need and want to find release from their pain, healing from their stories and a future to look forward to. When we work together, this is always our goal although our path to get there may look different from your friend, co-worker or family member. This is treatment designed for you and your unique story and needs.
I am also certified as a Grief Counseling Specialist.
Like our fingerprints, there are no two people who will have the exact experiences, pain, struggles or stories. Everyone's pain will show up differently and everyone's story will have a tale that needs to be told. What is the same for most people is the need and want to find release from their pain, healing from their stories and a future to look forward to. When we work together, this is always our goal although our path to get there may look different from your friend, co-worker or family member. This is treatment designed for you and your unique story and needs.
(609) 312-5739 View (609) 312-5739
Photo of Kimberlee A McCollough, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberlee A McCollough
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Ewing, NJ 08560
Grief is not just the passing of a loved one, it encompasses much more.
After graduating from Rider College with a Masters Degree in counseling I had the opportunity to work for Carrier Clinic in their Dual Diagnosis Unit. My responsibilities included conducting assessments for depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders and addiction. I developed curriculum for therapeutic groups and managed group therapists working in the program. Following that experienced I worked for an IOP (Intensive Out Patient that is were may times people go after an inpatient hospitalization) in Freehold, New Jersey handling individual and group therapy.
Grief is not just the passing of a loved one, it encompasses much more.
After graduating from Rider College with a Masters Degree in counseling I had the opportunity to work for Carrier Clinic in their Dual Diagnosis Unit. My responsibilities included conducting assessments for depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders and addiction. I developed curriculum for therapeutic groups and managed group therapists working in the program. Following that experienced I worked for an IOP (Intensive Out Patient that is were may times people go after an inpatient hospitalization) in Freehold, New Jersey handling individual and group therapy.
(609) 788-3018 View (609) 788-3018
Photo of Kelly R. Walters, PhD, Psychologist
Kelly R. Walters
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Flemington, NJ 08822
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I provide individual therapy to older adolescents, adults and seniors. Working from a psychodynamic framework, I specialize in helping people dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, loss, trauma, relationship difficulties and life transitions. I am flexible in my approach to psychotherapy and adjust my ways of working to meet the needs of each unique individual. In the context of a therapeutic relationship based on respect, empathy and collaboration, my goal as a therapist is to understand the unique set of problems, experiences and goals of those seeking help.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I provide individual therapy to older adolescents, adults and seniors. Working from a psychodynamic framework, I specialize in helping people dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, loss, trauma, relationship difficulties and life transitions. I am flexible in my approach to psychotherapy and adjust my ways of working to meet the needs of each unique individual. In the context of a therapeutic relationship based on respect, empathy and collaboration, my goal as a therapist is to understand the unique set of problems, experiences and goals of those seeking help.
(908) 521-4778 View (908) 521-4778

See more therapy options for Ringoes

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.