Grief Therapists in Verona, NJ

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 Dana Lustig, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dana Lustig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
I see ages 15-adults/seniors for anxiety/intrusive thoughts, grief, bullying, relationships, family dynamics, dating violence, PTSD, & transitioning to or coming home from college.
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Juggling school or work, relationships, and the constant presence of social media can be a lot to manage. You may find yourself feeling anxious, sad, or stressed more frequently than you'd prefer, and it might be tough to open up about it. Perhaps you’re feeling irritable, lashing out at others, or just need support in understanding why it’s happening and how to improve. Thoughts and emotions can weigh heavily, and it’s not always easy to navigate them.
I see ages 15-adults/seniors for anxiety/intrusive thoughts, grief, bullying, relationships, family dynamics, dating violence, PTSD, & transitioning to or coming home from college.
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Juggling school or work, relationships, and the constant presence of social media can be a lot to manage. You may find yourself feeling anxious, sad, or stressed more frequently than you'd prefer, and it might be tough to open up about it. Perhaps you’re feeling irritable, lashing out at others, or just need support in understanding why it’s happening and how to improve. Thoughts and emotions can weigh heavily, and it’s not always easy to navigate them.
(908) 663-5687 View (908) 663-5687
Photo of Colleen M. Cavanagh, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen M. Cavanagh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
People can heal from abuse, trauma, loss, grief, broken relationships, and life-changing events. Talking with a trusted professional makes a difference. I step into genuine relationships with my clients. I encourage and challenge my clients to do the same with their loved ones and family members. Healing happens in connection with others, and by strengthening emotional bonds, we become more available to renewal and restoration of our emotional selves. We let go of our emotional baggage! It is such an honor and pleasure to walk beside my clients and witness their journey back to wholeness and happiness.
People can heal from abuse, trauma, loss, grief, broken relationships, and life-changing events. Talking with a trusted professional makes a difference. I step into genuine relationships with my clients. I encourage and challenge my clients to do the same with their loved ones and family members. Healing happens in connection with others, and by strengthening emotional bonds, we become more available to renewal and restoration of our emotional selves. We let go of our emotional baggage! It is such an honor and pleasure to walk beside my clients and witness their journey back to wholeness and happiness.
(201) 820-0699 View (201) 820-0699
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 Erin Field, MA, SAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Field
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, SAC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients who need support with anxiety, depression, family issues, relationships, social issues, grief and loss, communication issues, ADHD, executive functioning, self-esteem and identity.
As a LPC, my goal is to help my clients explore the root of their distress, identify needs and wants and work toward a more balanced life. I hope to empower my adolescent and adult clients to practice self-care and healthy coping. I have also been working with students in school settings for over 20 years, as a Special Education Teacher and then as a School Counselor and Student Assistance Counselor. I have helped my students develop executive functioning skills, organizational skills, and goal setting to help them transition into their future endeavors while supporting their mental health needs and substance abuse issues.
I specialize in working with clients who need support with anxiety, depression, family issues, relationships, social issues, grief and loss, communication issues, ADHD, executive functioning, self-esteem and identity.
As a LPC, my goal is to help my clients explore the root of their distress, identify needs and wants and work toward a more balanced life. I hope to empower my adolescent and adult clients to practice self-care and healthy coping. I have also been working with students in school settings for over 20 years, as a Special Education Teacher and then as a School Counselor and Student Assistance Counselor. I have helped my students develop executive functioning skills, organizational skills, and goal setting to help them transition into their future endeavors while supporting their mental health needs and substance abuse issues.
(973) 221-9220 View (973) 221-9220
Photo of Caitlin Northern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Northern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
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 Sue Waldman, MA, LPC, BCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sue Waldman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
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 Robbie Conrad, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robbie Conrad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
Change, stress, transition, relationship struggles, self-doubt, fear, anger, loneliness, loss...these are some of the issues I help my clients to navigate successfully. Maybe there is a problem you've tried to resolve on your own and you've reached an impasse. Or you have a teen whose behavior is worrisome, and you're not sure whether it's "just adolescence" or something of greater concern. With over 20 years of experience, dedication and compassion, I will work with you to uncover obstacles and find solutions.
Change, stress, transition, relationship struggles, self-doubt, fear, anger, loneliness, loss...these are some of the issues I help my clients to navigate successfully. Maybe there is a problem you've tried to resolve on your own and you've reached an impasse. Or you have a teen whose behavior is worrisome, and you're not sure whether it's "just adolescence" or something of greater concern. With over 20 years of experience, dedication and compassion, I will work with you to uncover obstacles and find solutions.
(973) 339-7165 View (973) 339-7165
Photo of Susan M Walker, PhD, Psychologist
Susan M Walker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044  (Online Only)
If you are considering psychotherapy, you are looking for someone who will understand your difficulties and help you make positive changes in your life. I work with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, family dysfunction, grief and loss, the after-effects of trauma, and other concerns that interfere with daily functioning. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the key to successful therapy and I strive to provide a non-judgmental setting and develop a trusting and collaborative relationship with each of my clients. The benefits of therapy can include better self-understanding, increased self-confidence, and improved coping strategies.
If you are considering psychotherapy, you are looking for someone who will understand your difficulties and help you make positive changes in your life. I work with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, family dysfunction, grief and loss, the after-effects of trauma, and other concerns that interfere with daily functioning. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the key to successful therapy and I strive to provide a non-judgmental setting and develop a trusting and collaborative relationship with each of my clients. The benefits of therapy can include better self-understanding, increased self-confidence, and improved coping strategies.
(610) 915-8057 View (610) 915-8057
Photo of Dawn Fried, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Fried
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
I offer alternative holisitc approaches to life's challenges of grief/ loss, relationship conflicts, depression, anxiety, LGBT concerns, low self esteem, trauma and spiritual disconnection.
Are you living the life you want for yourself? I recognize your worth and the strengths within you. Allow me to help you improve your sense of well being in the shortest time possible. We will partner together as I assist you in getting unstuck from painful self-limiting behaviors, feelings and thoughts with compassion, honesty and insight. You will free yourself from patterns in your past and dismantle beliefs at the core of your difficulties. I combine traditional and alternative techniques with a mind-body-spirit perspective for healing that creates greater emotional balance, self acceptance and fulfillment.
I offer alternative holisitc approaches to life's challenges of grief/ loss, relationship conflicts, depression, anxiety, LGBT concerns, low self esteem, trauma and spiritual disconnection.
Are you living the life you want for yourself? I recognize your worth and the strengths within you. Allow me to help you improve your sense of well being in the shortest time possible. We will partner together as I assist you in getting unstuck from painful self-limiting behaviors, feelings and thoughts with compassion, honesty and insight. You will free yourself from patterns in your past and dismantle beliefs at the core of your difficulties. I combine traditional and alternative techniques with a mind-body-spirit perspective for healing that creates greater emotional balance, self acceptance and fulfillment.
(973) 671-1765 View (973) 671-1765
Photo of Carole Oliver, MEd, TEP, LPC, Counselor
Carole Oliver
Counselor, MEd, TEP, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
ATTENTION:due to coronavirus, I am conducting sessions remotely via facetime, skype, or zoom. I wish everyone peace of mind. WE all have the potential to live life joyfully. I can help you do that. I do not talk at clients or remain silent. I am an interactive therapist. My specialties are perfectionism,low self esteem, transition, loss and trauma.I will work compassionately with you to help heal past traumas and current blocks so you can realize what you want from your life. I do individual, couples and group therapy.
ATTENTION:due to coronavirus, I am conducting sessions remotely via facetime, skype, or zoom. I wish everyone peace of mind. WE all have the potential to live life joyfully. I can help you do that. I do not talk at clients or remain silent. I am an interactive therapist. My specialties are perfectionism,low self esteem, transition, loss and trauma.I will work compassionately with you to help heal past traumas and current blocks so you can realize what you want from your life. I do individual, couples and group therapy.
(973) 671-8177 View (973) 671-8177
Photo of Bijal Patel, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bijal Patel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044  (Online Only)
I work with relational issues, communication, problems with sex and/or intimacy, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger management, various mental and emotional disorders, aging parents, affective disorders, job related stress, social stressors, grief, self-esteem, and other challenges.
Are you looking to make a shift? I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I believe therapy can be seen as a process of unpacking. Things often go unsaid, which can manifest into various effects on the body, such as anxiety. Although staying with your emotions can be difficult, it can often be the pathway to healing. My clinical experience has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of our environment and relationships, as well as the positive shifts that can take place when offered supportive and validating resources.
I work with relational issues, communication, problems with sex and/or intimacy, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger management, various mental and emotional disorders, aging parents, affective disorders, job related stress, social stressors, grief, self-esteem, and other challenges.
Are you looking to make a shift? I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I believe therapy can be seen as a process of unpacking. Things often go unsaid, which can manifest into various effects on the body, such as anxiety. Although staying with your emotions can be difficult, it can often be the pathway to healing. My clinical experience has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of our environment and relationships, as well as the positive shifts that can take place when offered supportive and validating resources.
(856) 776-7265 View (856) 776-7265
Photo of Les Kooyman, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Les Kooyman
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
I have successfully worked with LGBTQ individuals and individuals struggling with loss ( grief counseling) and relationship issues (couples counseling) for many years.
I believe therapy is a caring, supportive, challenging, and collaborative process of exploring areas of your life that are concerning to you and you'd like to learn how to manage better. I follow a strengths-based, person-centered approach where we discuss and explore areas of your life you are concerned about and I assist you in making the real changes you seek. I'm easy going guy who uses humor, homework, insight readings, and other resources to support and challenge you to create change in your life.
I have successfully worked with LGBTQ individuals and individuals struggling with loss ( grief counseling) and relationship issues (couples counseling) for many years.
I believe therapy is a caring, supportive, challenging, and collaborative process of exploring areas of your life that are concerning to you and you'd like to learn how to manage better. I follow a strengths-based, person-centered approach where we discuss and explore areas of your life you are concerned about and I assist you in making the real changes you seek. I'm easy going guy who uses humor, homework, insight readings, and other resources to support and challenge you to create change in your life.
(704) 761-6736 View (704) 761-6736
Photo of Lewis C Pagano, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lewis C Pagano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
I also have expertise in grief issues, and gender identity and clients who are waiting for organ donation.
Talk therapy can help you become your true self. I have worked extensively with adults and adolescents for over 30 years and have a good understanding of childhood issues.I work with individuals and families with a focus on emotions.I believe that all people have resources to solve problems.I am easy to talk to and I have great listening skills.I have worked with individuals who are depressed and with adolescents in public education with great success I also have an extensive background in substance abuse and am certified to work with clients on Suboxone (Buprenorphine) for treatment of opiate addiction.
I also have expertise in grief issues, and gender identity and clients who are waiting for organ donation.
Talk therapy can help you become your true self. I have worked extensively with adults and adolescents for over 30 years and have a good understanding of childhood issues.I work with individuals and families with a focus on emotions.I believe that all people have resources to solve problems.I am easy to talk to and I have great listening skills.I have worked with individuals who are depressed and with adolescents in public education with great success I also have an extensive background in substance abuse and am certified to work with clients on Suboxone (Buprenorphine) for treatment of opiate addiction.
(973) 310-2273 View (973) 310-2273
Dr. L F Varriale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, DSW
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
Depressed, anxious, stuck,??? Let me teach you the skills to empower yourself and move forward in your life with ease and comfortability. Whether you need help moving on from a relationship, a loss, depression and/or anxiety; life sometimes makes it difficult to do on one's own. I will equip you with the skills to deal with anything in your life as it comes towards you. My experience encompasses addictions, maladaptive disorders, loss, grief, relationship issues, anxiety disorders, depression, identity/sexual issues, etc. I specialize in work with individuals that are experiencing "the nervous break-down".....
Depressed, anxious, stuck,??? Let me teach you the skills to empower yourself and move forward in your life with ease and comfortability. Whether you need help moving on from a relationship, a loss, depression and/or anxiety; life sometimes makes it difficult to do on one's own. I will equip you with the skills to deal with anything in your life as it comes towards you. My experience encompasses addictions, maladaptive disorders, loss, grief, relationship issues, anxiety disorders, depression, identity/sexual issues, etc. I specialize in work with individuals that are experiencing "the nervous break-down".....
(917) 993-5803 View (917) 993-5803
Photo of Peter Diskin - Peter Diskin, LCSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peter Diskin, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
If you are struggling with anxiety, feelings of unworthiness, a sense of loss and grief or relationship problems I can help. I have been working successfully with individuals and families for 35 years. Together we will clarify your goals and through our mutual collaboration positive change can occur. If you commit to the process you will make a dramatic shift in your life; (stop repetitive, self-defeating behaviors; start to heal from deeply rooted pain which you may have previously been unable to resolve; learn to actively listen and genuinely hear what your partner, family member, client or boss is saying to you.
If you are struggling with anxiety, feelings of unworthiness, a sense of loss and grief or relationship problems I can help. I have been working successfully with individuals and families for 35 years. Together we will clarify your goals and through our mutual collaboration positive change can occur. If you commit to the process you will make a dramatic shift in your life; (stop repetitive, self-defeating behaviors; start to heal from deeply rooted pain which you may have previously been unable to resolve; learn to actively listen and genuinely hear what your partner, family member, client or boss is saying to you.
(973) 671-8170 View (973) 671-8170
Photo of Jose M Perez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jose M Perez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
Making the call for counseling is often the first step you can take in beginning the healing process. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in New Jersey. I can counsel individuals, couples and families and specialize in working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship problems or life transitions including but not limited to divorce, loss of a job or death of a loved one. I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment to foster your own individual strength.
Making the call for counseling is often the first step you can take in beginning the healing process. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in New Jersey. I can counsel individuals, couples and families and specialize in working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship problems or life transitions including but not limited to divorce, loss of a job or death of a loved one. I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment to foster your own individual strength.
(973) 671-8249 View (973) 671-8249
Photo of Jeannine Zoppi, PhD, Psychologist
Jeannine Zoppi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044  (Online Only)
I work with adults, adolescents and children who experience depression, anxiety, anger, trauma and loss.
I strongly feel that healing can take place only in the context of a relationship in which someone experiences safety, compassion and understanding. It is through this process that people can awaken in themselves the possibilities for growth and transformation, often hidden by the negative effects of trauma, depression, anxiety, anger and loss. In my treatment approach, I communicate to my patients that they are not alone in their suffering, that they have the strength to tolerate the uncertainties of life, and they do have choices even if they feel stuck and alone.
I work with adults, adolescents and children who experience depression, anxiety, anger, trauma and loss.
I strongly feel that healing can take place only in the context of a relationship in which someone experiences safety, compassion and understanding. It is through this process that people can awaken in themselves the possibilities for growth and transformation, often hidden by the negative effects of trauma, depression, anxiety, anger and loss. In my treatment approach, I communicate to my patients that they are not alone in their suffering, that they have the strength to tolerate the uncertainties of life, and they do have choices even if they feel stuck and alone.
(973) 970-3903 View (973) 970-3903
Photo of Suzanne Seligson, LPAT, ATR-BC, MPS, Art Therapist
Suzanne Seligson
Art Therapist, LPAT, ATR-BC, MPS
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
My practice is a psychodynamic approach utilizing verbal therapy, art psychotherapy, and mindfulness. As each client has their own individual and unique experience, backgrounds, and personalities as does the treatment I provide. I work together with my clients to determine their goals and what approaches work best for them. I specialize in working with children/adults/families experiencing grief, teenagers who are transitioning from high school to college, youth and adults feeling overwhelmed and anxious.
My practice is a psychodynamic approach utilizing verbal therapy, art psychotherapy, and mindfulness. As each client has their own individual and unique experience, backgrounds, and personalities as does the treatment I provide. I work together with my clients to determine their goals and what approaches work best for them. I specialize in working with children/adults/families experiencing grief, teenagers who are transitioning from high school to college, youth and adults feeling overwhelmed and anxious.
(201) 581-1611 View (201) 581-1611
1
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.