Grief Therapists in Lakewood, OH

Photo of Michael Crowdes, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Crowdes
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
Now Accepting New Clients - I am passionate about helping people break through difficulties that have been holding them back from feeling happy and hopeful. I work with people who are dealing with significant life changes, both personal and professional, relationship issues, and people who are searching for better insight into themselves, or a greater sense of purpose. One of my specialties is working with clients suffering from grief or loss.
Now Accepting New Clients - I am passionate about helping people break through difficulties that have been holding them back from feeling happy and hopeful. I work with people who are dealing with significant life changes, both personal and professional, relationship issues, and people who are searching for better insight into themselves, or a greater sense of purpose. One of my specialties is working with clients suffering from grief or loss.
(216) 677-1514 View (216) 677-1514
Photo of Kristin Shufelt, LPCC, ATR-P
Kristin Shufelt
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who works with children (6+), adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and trauma. Additionally, I work with the older adult population (65+) with a focus on cognitive impairment and end-of-life concerns. I utilize unconditional positive regard and a strength-based approach to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. As Provisionally Registered Art Therapist, I also utilize Person-Centered art therapy interventions, when applicable.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who works with children (6+), adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and trauma. Additionally, I work with the older adult population (65+) with a focus on cognitive impairment and end-of-life concerns. I utilize unconditional positive regard and a strength-based approach to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. As Provisionally Registered Art Therapist, I also utilize Person-Centered art therapy interventions, when applicable.
(216) 238-3597 View (216) 238-3597
Photo of Stephanie Lukes, LPCC, Counselor
Stephanie Lukes
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
Are you concerned about an increase in anxiety or depression/sadness that is lingering? Have you had a recent loss or are struggling in a relationship? Stephanie is ready to work with you on this journey to learn new ways to take back your emotional well-being.
Stephanie is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with 6 years of experience in counseling individuals with mental health or drug and alcohol concerns. Prior to that she was a case manager for clients with mental health concerns for 10 years and has been working in the mental health field for a total of 23 years. Stephanie is passionate about helping teens, adults, and couples to live life as the best version of themselves. Stephanie specializes in anxiety, depression, grief, LGBTQIA, relationship issues, and substance use.
Are you concerned about an increase in anxiety or depression/sadness that is lingering? Have you had a recent loss or are struggling in a relationship? Stephanie is ready to work with you on this journey to learn new ways to take back your emotional well-being.
Stephanie is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with 6 years of experience in counseling individuals with mental health or drug and alcohol concerns. Prior to that she was a case manager for clients with mental health concerns for 10 years and has been working in the mental health field for a total of 23 years. Stephanie is passionate about helping teens, adults, and couples to live life as the best version of themselves. Stephanie specializes in anxiety, depression, grief, LGBTQIA, relationship issues, and substance use.
(216) 930-3044 View (216) 930-3044
Photo of Cynthia (Cindy) Golden Billittier, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia (Cindy) Golden Billittier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
I have 30 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples and families with a wide range of complex life circumstances. As a social worker, I pride myself in the ability to look at things from a systemic perspective. No one functions in isolation. I am compassionate and committed to my clients to address their individual needs as no one situation duplicates another. I have worked in a variety of settings: hospital, eating disorder specialty center, residential and private practice. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, feeding and eating disorders, grief, and families and couples under stress.
I have 30 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples and families with a wide range of complex life circumstances. As a social worker, I pride myself in the ability to look at things from a systemic perspective. No one functions in isolation. I am compassionate and committed to my clients to address their individual needs as no one situation duplicates another. I have worked in a variety of settings: hospital, eating disorder specialty center, residential and private practice. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, feeding and eating disorders, grief, and families and couples under stress.
(216) 666-5244 View (216) 666-5244
Photo of Emily Grady, LPCC-S, Counselor
Emily Grady
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
My work focuses on interpersonal and community relationships, grief, boundary setting, and life transitions.
If you are looking to work through grief, shame, anxiety, or any other heaviness you're carrying, you've come to the right place. I know therapy is a process- and a difficult one at times- and I am hoping we can build a collaborative relationship that fosters an environment for healing and growth.
My work focuses on interpersonal and community relationships, grief, boundary setting, and life transitions.
If you are looking to work through grief, shame, anxiety, or any other heaviness you're carrying, you've come to the right place. I know therapy is a process- and a difficult one at times- and I am hoping we can build a collaborative relationship that fosters an environment for healing and growth.
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Photo of Melanie Shmois, Weight , MSSA, LISW-S, Life, Coach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Shmois
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Weight , MSSA, LISW-S, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Finally, I am a Certified Life and Weight Loss Coach, from the Life Coach School and I conduct private life and weight loss coaching sessions both in person, or online via Zoom and over the phone.
Hello, I am Melanie Shmois, MSSA, LISW-S, Certified Life & Weight Loss Coach, Shadow Integration Master. I am a personal coach & therapist for high-performers who are at the top of their game professionally and also want to excel in their personal lives. I use transformation coaching tools to facilitate change.
Finally, I am a Certified Life and Weight Loss Coach, from the Life Coach School and I conduct private life and weight loss coaching sessions both in person, or online via Zoom and over the phone.
Hello, I am Melanie Shmois, MSSA, LISW-S, Certified Life & Weight Loss Coach, Shadow Integration Master. I am a personal coach & therapist for high-performers who are at the top of their game professionally and also want to excel in their personal lives. I use transformation coaching tools to facilitate change.
(216) 223-8990 View (216) 223-8990
Photo of Megan Berg Donnelly, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Berg Donnelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
In addition to my specialties I work with adolescents (16+) and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, relationship difficulties, grief and loss.
Life brings challenges and hardships often leaving us feeling stuck and overwhelmed. You do not have to be alone in your struggles, and I am committed to working together to help you reach your goals. I place a high value on the therapeutic relationship, offering a safe, empathetic , judgement-free space to help you identify barriers and emotions that are holding you back, facilitating growth and self-awareness along the way. My mission is to empower client's to make change and create more meaning in their lives.
In addition to my specialties I work with adolescents (16+) and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, relationship difficulties, grief and loss.
Life brings challenges and hardships often leaving us feeling stuck and overwhelmed. You do not have to be alone in your struggles, and I am committed to working together to help you reach your goals. I place a high value on the therapeutic relationship, offering a safe, empathetic , judgement-free space to help you identify barriers and emotions that are holding you back, facilitating growth and self-awareness along the way. My mission is to empower client's to make change and create more meaning in their lives.
(216) 284-6049 View (216) 284-6049
Photo of Lauren Ferns, CT, LPC Intern
Lauren Ferns
LPC Intern, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
I find fulfillment in working with individuals navigating the complexities of modern life who may experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, complex trauma, grief, and neurodiversity.
Life can be overwhelming and out of control, leaving you feeling like you mentally and spiritually have “too many tabs open.” Let's work together to reduce life’s stressors to rediscover your motivation, sense of self, connection to others, and enjoyment of life.
I find fulfillment in working with individuals navigating the complexities of modern life who may experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, complex trauma, grief, and neurodiversity.
Life can be overwhelming and out of control, leaving you feeling like you mentally and spiritually have “too many tabs open.” Let's work together to reduce life’s stressors to rediscover your motivation, sense of self, connection to others, and enjoyment of life.
(216) 616-1169 View (216) 616-1169
Photo of Christina Baldwin, LPCC, MA ED, Counselor
Christina Baldwin
Counselor, LPCC, MA ED
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Waitlist for new clients
I believe the heart of therapy is an authentic and trusting relationship. I work compassionately with individuals, couples, & families to help alleviate the painful symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, ADHD, unresolved grief, trauma, relational issues, poor body image, & low self esteem. Working collaboratively with clients, I can help to develop insight and aid in breaking unhealthy patterns to provide a greater sense of self & well being.
I believe the heart of therapy is an authentic and trusting relationship. I work compassionately with individuals, couples, & families to help alleviate the painful symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, ADHD, unresolved grief, trauma, relational issues, poor body image, & low self esteem. Working collaboratively with clients, I can help to develop insight and aid in breaking unhealthy patterns to provide a greater sense of self & well being.
(216) 238-2997 View (216) 238-2997
Photo of Leah L Babaran, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leah L Babaran
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
Whether you are 6 or 106, come as you are and be your authentic self, as you have a safe space with me! I love getting the chance to help people have those “ah-ha” moments when they work through self-exploration and healing through previous grief, trauma, stress, and/or relationships or any challenges life has to offer.
Have you ever experienced someone giving you an uncomfortable glance or had harmful words spoken to or about you because of your racial identity, ethnicity, sexual/affectional orientation, or just because of the way you look? Have you ever had difficulties describing what or how you’re feeling, or not knowing what the hell to do when you’re feeling the feels? Are you new to therapy, trying to navigate and manage the stressors of life, have tried therapy before and it wasn’t a good fit, or maybe you’re returning to continue working toward new goals?
Whether you are 6 or 106, come as you are and be your authentic self, as you have a safe space with me! I love getting the chance to help people have those “ah-ha” moments when they work through self-exploration and healing through previous grief, trauma, stress, and/or relationships or any challenges life has to offer.
Have you ever experienced someone giving you an uncomfortable glance or had harmful words spoken to or about you because of your racial identity, ethnicity, sexual/affectional orientation, or just because of the way you look? Have you ever had difficulties describing what or how you’re feeling, or not knowing what the hell to do when you’re feeling the feels? Are you new to therapy, trying to navigate and manage the stressors of life, have tried therapy before and it wasn’t a good fit, or maybe you’re returning to continue working toward new goals?
(216) 238-5997 View (216) 238-5997
Photo of Joyous D Williams - Recreating Dawn - Trauma Recovery & Art Therapy, LPCC, ATR-BC, CCTP, Counselor
Recreating Dawn - Trauma Recovery & Art Therapy
Counselor, LPCC, ATR-BC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
Perhaps you are realizing that old "stuff" is lingering in your life - and you really want to make lasting changes? Perhaps symptoms of Depression & Anxiety are running the show? Are recent events are affecting you or your child deeply? We get to help folks cope with life's challenges, like loss, stress, relational problems, and traumatic events. We're in this together. As Trauma Specialists and Art Therapists and EMDR therapists (some providers) we're poised to help you sort out your feelings and experiences in difficult times. (Joy is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor & Board Certified Art Therapist.)
Perhaps you are realizing that old "stuff" is lingering in your life - and you really want to make lasting changes? Perhaps symptoms of Depression & Anxiety are running the show? Are recent events are affecting you or your child deeply? We get to help folks cope with life's challenges, like loss, stress, relational problems, and traumatic events. We're in this together. As Trauma Specialists and Art Therapists and EMDR therapists (some providers) we're poised to help you sort out your feelings and experiences in difficult times. (Joy is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor & Board Certified Art Therapist.)
(216) 868-7039 View (216) 868-7039
Photo of Wendy Jo Biello - Lakewood Counseling, LLC, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lakewood Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
If you struggle with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, bullying, pregnancy, addiction or self-harm, you will find through counseling you can be strong, clear minded, self-controlled and peaceful.
Life is no easy task. It can knock us around causing regrets and unwanted feelings. Emotional pain can be elusive, idling for years as the culprit of failed partnerships, loneliness, underachievement, despair, and fear. Mental pain does not send us to the emergency room for stitches but can leave us feeling at war with ourselves. When left unattended this pain can lead to debilitating mood disorders and maladaptive coping strategies. As a partner of Lakewood Counseling, I am here to help you tend to your mental health, restore your inner strength and reclaim control over the life that you deserve.
If you struggle with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, bullying, pregnancy, addiction or self-harm, you will find through counseling you can be strong, clear minded, self-controlled and peaceful.
Life is no easy task. It can knock us around causing regrets and unwanted feelings. Emotional pain can be elusive, idling for years as the culprit of failed partnerships, loneliness, underachievement, despair, and fear. Mental pain does not send us to the emergency room for stitches but can leave us feeling at war with ourselves. When left unattended this pain can lead to debilitating mood disorders and maladaptive coping strategies. As a partner of Lakewood Counseling, I am here to help you tend to your mental health, restore your inner strength and reclaim control over the life that you deserve.
(440) 703-6723 View (440) 703-6723
Photo of J. Subsinsky, LPC, ATR-P, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
J. Subsinsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
My specialization of therapy services extends to addressing symptoms related to past trauma, anxiety, depression, loss, and adjustment difficulties.
Hello, I’m J. Subsinsky (he/him). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Art Therapist (ATR-P), and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). My mission is to guide clients on a transformative journey where we bring unconscious material to light, and work collaboratively to reach profound levels of self-awareness, compassion, and acceptance so that individuals may access a state of inner harmony to navigate life as their authentic selves with a tranquil heart. I have a deep affinity for working with creative and introspective adults seeking to understand themselves.
My specialization of therapy services extends to addressing symptoms related to past trauma, anxiety, depression, loss, and adjustment difficulties.
Hello, I’m J. Subsinsky (he/him). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Art Therapist (ATR-P), and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). My mission is to guide clients on a transformative journey where we bring unconscious material to light, and work collaboratively to reach profound levels of self-awareness, compassion, and acceptance so that individuals may access a state of inner harmony to navigate life as their authentic selves with a tranquil heart. I have a deep affinity for working with creative and introspective adults seeking to understand themselves.
(216) 868-4824 View (216) 868-4824
Photo of L Claire Campbell, ATR, LPCC-S, Counselor
L Claire Campbell
Counselor, ATR, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
As a Licensed Supervising Clinical Counselor and Registered Art Therapist, I have 25+ years experience including early childhood development, grief, loss, and trauma.
Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, anxious or grieving? Going through a big life transition? I will meet you where you are in life in a safe, affirming space to explore your personal story, growth, and potential. I can help you make sense of things through traditional talk therapy coupled with somatic processing, mindfulness practice, relaxation techniques, guided imagery, movement and art therapy. I view each client as unique and having a powerful story to share. I will work with you to identify your inherent strengths, growing edges and support developing what changes will foster ongoing hope and positivity.
As a Licensed Supervising Clinical Counselor and Registered Art Therapist, I have 25+ years experience including early childhood development, grief, loss, and trauma.
Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, anxious or grieving? Going through a big life transition? I will meet you where you are in life in a safe, affirming space to explore your personal story, growth, and potential. I can help you make sense of things through traditional talk therapy coupled with somatic processing, mindfulness practice, relaxation techniques, guided imagery, movement and art therapy. I view each client as unique and having a powerful story to share. I will work with you to identify your inherent strengths, growing edges and support developing what changes will foster ongoing hope and positivity.
(216) 206-8889 View (216) 206-8889
Photo of Ranada Cooper, PsyD, Psychologist
Ranada Cooper
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Dr. Ranada Cooper is a Licensed Social Worker and a Licensed Psychologist (LSW, LP) with more than 23 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping pre-adolescents, adolescents, and adults address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Dr. Cooper specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and major life transitions. Dr. Cooper completed her Master's degree in Social Science Administration at Case Western Reserve University-MSASS. She offers counseling and talk therapy services; however, she does not currently offer psychological testing.
Dr. Ranada Cooper is a Licensed Social Worker and a Licensed Psychologist (LSW, LP) with more than 23 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping pre-adolescents, adolescents, and adults address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Dr. Cooper specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and major life transitions. Dr. Cooper completed her Master's degree in Social Science Administration at Case Western Reserve University-MSASS. She offers counseling and talk therapy services; however, she does not currently offer psychological testing.
(216) 859-3364 View (216) 859-3364
Photo of Kristi Anderson Wilson, LPCC-S, NCC, CBIS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristi Anderson Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S, NCC, CBIS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
Don't be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart. (Roy T. Bennett). Beyond her over 15 years of practice, what sets Kristi apart is her dedication to ongoing learning and curiosity, allowing her to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field of mental health. Her open and authentic approach creates a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. Kristi's expertise extends to various mental health issues and disorders, including Autism, Acquired Brain Injury, Trauma (PTSD), Anxiety, Depression, and Grief Counseling.
Don't be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart. (Roy T. Bennett). Beyond her over 15 years of practice, what sets Kristi apart is her dedication to ongoing learning and curiosity, allowing her to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field of mental health. Her open and authentic approach creates a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. Kristi's expertise extends to various mental health issues and disorders, including Autism, Acquired Brain Injury, Trauma (PTSD), Anxiety, Depression, and Grief Counseling.
(216) 616-8329 View (216) 616-8329
Photo of Carla J Gilenko, PCC-S, Counselor
Carla J Gilenko
Counselor, PCC-S
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
My counseling focus includes depression, anxiety and grief resulting from death, divorce, chronic illness, suicide and other life changes.
I believe in the inherent wisdom that lies within each of us. Sometimes sadness, pain, anger, anxiety and discomfort can block us from that wisdom and we find ourselves stuck in our lives. My goal in helping my clients is to provide a safe environment within which we can work together to remove the blocks to joy, love, peace and happiness, furthering personal growth and healing. I truly believe that the answers we need lie within each of us. Part of my job is to help you sift through the layers to find the answer that is right for you.
My counseling focus includes depression, anxiety and grief resulting from death, divorce, chronic illness, suicide and other life changes.
I believe in the inherent wisdom that lies within each of us. Sometimes sadness, pain, anger, anxiety and discomfort can block us from that wisdom and we find ourselves stuck in our lives. My goal in helping my clients is to provide a safe environment within which we can work together to remove the blocks to joy, love, peace and happiness, furthering personal growth and healing. I truly believe that the answers we need lie within each of us. Part of my job is to help you sift through the layers to find the answer that is right for you.
(216) 415-6378 View (216) 415-6378
Photo of Megan M Seaman, PhD, LPC, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan M Seaman
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Welcome and thank you for your trust and confidence in allowing me, Dr. Megan Seaman, to serve you in the therapeutic relationship that we will form in the areas that are important to you! I have had 19 years of experience counseling clients in a variety of settings, which includes working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I am trained and qualified to work with most diagnoses and life situations including, but not limited to anxiety and stress, depression, grief and loss, trauma, developmental transitions, gender and sexual identity development, career exploration, feminist and social justice issues, and mindfulness.
Welcome and thank you for your trust and confidence in allowing me, Dr. Megan Seaman, to serve you in the therapeutic relationship that we will form in the areas that are important to you! I have had 19 years of experience counseling clients in a variety of settings, which includes working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I am trained and qualified to work with most diagnoses and life situations including, but not limited to anxiety and stress, depression, grief and loss, trauma, developmental transitions, gender and sexual identity development, career exploration, feminist and social justice issues, and mindfulness.
(216) 777-3720 View (216) 777-3720
Photo of Laura Dunson Caputo, LPCC-S, MSEd, Counselor
Laura Dunson Caputo
Counselor, LPCC-S, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
I have experience working with trauma and can help people reconnect with themselves or others after loss.
As a counselor, I believe we grow through relationship with others. I treat therapy as an equal partnership where we can explore your strengths, values, and hopes, to help you use your power to reach your goals. I know that feeling seen and heard by your therapist matters, so I work to create a space where you can feel safe to be authentic and open. Our mental health may be informed by our experiences, communities, culture, and larger social issues in our world. Because of this, I know that you’re the expert in your life, and my role is to help you explore, practice, and plan the next steps to build the life you want.
I have experience working with trauma and can help people reconnect with themselves or others after loss.
As a counselor, I believe we grow through relationship with others. I treat therapy as an equal partnership where we can explore your strengths, values, and hopes, to help you use your power to reach your goals. I know that feeling seen and heard by your therapist matters, so I work to create a space where you can feel safe to be authentic and open. Our mental health may be informed by our experiences, communities, culture, and larger social issues in our world. Because of this, I know that you’re the expert in your life, and my role is to help you explore, practice, and plan the next steps to build the life you want.
(216) 245-5421 View (216) 245-5421
Photo of Mary Hildenbrand, PhD, Psychologist
Mary Hildenbrand
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes when life feels completely out of control and your world has been turned upside down, having one hour a week you can count on can be life-changing. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, having a hard time connecting with the people in your life, going through a major life transition or loss, or simply trying to figure out how to feel like yourself again, I am here to support and guide you through that process. The right balance of support and challenge in therapy can often help you to unlock any "stuck" areas and empower you to re-create your life.
Sometimes when life feels completely out of control and your world has been turned upside down, having one hour a week you can count on can be life-changing. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, having a hard time connecting with the people in your life, going through a major life transition or loss, or simply trying to figure out how to feel like yourself again, I am here to support and guide you through that process. The right balance of support and challenge in therapy can often help you to unlock any "stuck" areas and empower you to re-create your life.
(216) 304-3536 View (216) 304-3536
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.