Grief Therapists in Richmond Heights, OH

Photo of Brooke H Kroto, LISW-S, CGT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brooke H Kroto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, CGT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, OH 44143
If you need help with difficult life challenges, important changes, processing loss, dealing with anxiety and depression, or getting unstuck and moving forward with personal goals, I provide the right support, tools and guidance to help you effectively.
My greatest passion and specialization is working with the LGBTQ+ community. My mission is to enhance your ability to live the life you deserve. For those who are transgender or gender variant, I provide gender diagnosis and therapy, and write the necessary letters of recommendation for gender affirming medical treatments. My gender services work in coordination with medical providers on your team within all hospital systems. I am a board certified gender therapist, a well-seasoned general psychotherapist, am EMDR trained. I bring over thirty years of training and practical experience to this work.
If you need help with difficult life challenges, important changes, processing loss, dealing with anxiety and depression, or getting unstuck and moving forward with personal goals, I provide the right support, tools and guidance to help you effectively.
My greatest passion and specialization is working with the LGBTQ+ community. My mission is to enhance your ability to live the life you deserve. For those who are transgender or gender variant, I provide gender diagnosis and therapy, and write the necessary letters of recommendation for gender affirming medical treatments. My gender services work in coordination with medical providers on your team within all hospital systems. I am a board certified gender therapist, a well-seasoned general psychotherapist, am EMDR trained. I bring over thirty years of training and practical experience to this work.
(216) 245-3675 View (216) 245-3675
Photo of Kendra Kay Esser, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kendra Kay Esser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, OH 44143
My specialties include pre-marital and marital counseling, depression and anxiety conditions, issues of grief and loss, divorce adjustment, gay and lesbian issues, anger/stress management and an overall approach and guidance as to how to live a happier life.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of a successful therapy experience. It is my sincere desire to support you to uncover and manifest your potential and empower you to learn the skills to take action to bring about a positive change in your life. My intention is to really listen to what is troubling you and offer you honest guidance to help you find the most growthful path through to the resolution you are seeking. I believe there is a deeper/higher meaning behind any issue facing you and will assist you to find this New Perspective.
My specialties include pre-marital and marital counseling, depression and anxiety conditions, issues of grief and loss, divorce adjustment, gay and lesbian issues, anger/stress management and an overall approach and guidance as to how to live a happier life.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of a successful therapy experience. It is my sincere desire to support you to uncover and manifest your potential and empower you to learn the skills to take action to bring about a positive change in your life. My intention is to really listen to what is troubling you and offer you honest guidance to help you find the most growthful path through to the resolution you are seeking. I believe there is a deeper/higher meaning behind any issue facing you and will assist you to find this New Perspective.
(216) 452-8464 x1 View (216) 452-8464 x1
Photo of Nancy Anne, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy Anne
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Richmond Heights, OH 44143
Nancy is dedicated to helping both individuals and couples learn skills to lead happier, more meaningful, loving and successful lives. She assists each individual discover their unique strengths and identify their true needs and values. Her methods are based on a a combination of positive psychology, compassionate communication and basic spiritual principles. She often works with individuals who feel stuck; or those in a crisis who don't understand how to work through to a place of stability and harmony. She believes we can all learn to be optimistic. Nancy is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Private Practice for 22 years.
Nancy is dedicated to helping both individuals and couples learn skills to lead happier, more meaningful, loving and successful lives. She assists each individual discover their unique strengths and identify their true needs and values. Her methods are based on a a combination of positive psychology, compassionate communication and basic spiritual principles. She often works with individuals who feel stuck; or those in a crisis who don't understand how to work through to a place of stability and harmony. She believes we can all learn to be optimistic. Nancy is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Private Practice for 22 years.
(216) 772-0136 View (216) 772-0136
Photo of Maria Shine Stewart, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Maria Shine Stewart
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, OH 44143
You are as unique as your fingerprint. I am a therapist that appreciates that and customizes treatment to suit your needs. I listen deeply, encourage, and advise within my scope of practice. You will benefit from: relaxation training, coping strategies for fear and depression, and insights on relationships. Above all, I promote your getting to know yourself. If your work or your faith or the arts is important to you, all strengths can be utilized in therapy. I can work with the rest of your health care team.Healing can be augmented by writing, reading, and communing in nature. If you are creatively blocked, I'm here.
You are as unique as your fingerprint. I am a therapist that appreciates that and customizes treatment to suit your needs. I listen deeply, encourage, and advise within my scope of practice. You will benefit from: relaxation training, coping strategies for fear and depression, and insights on relationships. Above all, I promote your getting to know yourself. If your work or your faith or the arts is important to you, all strengths can be utilized in therapy. I can work with the rest of your health care team.Healing can be augmented by writing, reading, and communing in nature. If you are creatively blocked, I'm here.
(216) 930-2958 View (216) 930-2958

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Anita Minkin, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anita Minkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Euclid, OH 44121
Loss of a loved one is painful and often complicated.
Someone you love has died, and your world feels like it is falling apart. Nothing is the same anymore. One day follows the next, leaving you behind. You lay in bed at night, missing your loved one with a pain that is unbearable. If only you had one more day to spend with them-to say good-bye, to say all the things you wish you had said, but didn't. Regrets and memories flood your mind, keeping you from sleep. Your heart is breaking and you feel so alone. If only things could return to the way they were. But you know they have changed forever, and you wonder how you'll be able to go on.
Loss of a loved one is painful and often complicated.
Someone you love has died, and your world feels like it is falling apart. Nothing is the same anymore. One day follows the next, leaving you behind. You lay in bed at night, missing your loved one with a pain that is unbearable. If only you had one more day to spend with them-to say good-bye, to say all the things you wish you had said, but didn't. Regrets and memories flood your mind, keeping you from sleep. Your heart is breaking and you feel so alone. If only things could return to the way they were. But you know they have changed forever, and you wonder how you'll be able to go on.
(216) 238-2906 View (216) 238-2906
Photo of Christian James Mixon, MSSA, CIMHP, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christian James Mixon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, CIMHP, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
ADHD, Adjustment disorders, Anger, Anxiety, Biblical counseling, Depression, Grief/ loss, Integrative holistic treatment approaches, Physical abuse, PTSD, Stress, Trauma.
God has given us a purpose, a vision, and a mission! As someone who has experienced adversities, I have used my own experiences to empower, and strengthen others. I will admit I do not know everything. I say this because you know your story better than I. If you allow me access to know your story, we can grow together. I acknowledge that trust is an important part in any relationship to develop so do not trust me until I have earned it. My hope is that through partnership, engagement, patience, love, understanding, respect, kindness, and teamwork we can work towards healing and self-empowerment. "Please Email if you see Waitlist" !
ADHD, Adjustment disorders, Anger, Anxiety, Biblical counseling, Depression, Grief/ loss, Integrative holistic treatment approaches, Physical abuse, PTSD, Stress, Trauma.
God has given us a purpose, a vision, and a mission! As someone who has experienced adversities, I have used my own experiences to empower, and strengthen others. I will admit I do not know everything. I say this because you know your story better than I. If you allow me access to know your story, we can grow together. I acknowledge that trust is an important part in any relationship to develop so do not trust me until I have earned it. My hope is that through partnership, engagement, patience, love, understanding, respect, kindness, and teamwork we can work towards healing and self-empowerment. "Please Email if you see Waitlist" !
(216) 616-2215 View (216) 616-2215
Photo of Consuelo Parker - Warm Embrace Counseling LLC, LPCC-S, LICDC
Warm Embrace Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
South Euclid, OH 44121  (Online Only)
Maybe you are here to try to understand an addiction, process grief, unpack trauma, or sort through relational issues.
Breathe, this is just a chapter, not your whole story. We all have things that we may struggle with from time to time, and it is important to find a professional that you can relate to when you need help. I enjoy helping people work through the difficulties of life, with a warm and non-judgmental attitude. My approach to therapy is laid-back and down to earth. Your sessions with me will very much be directed by you. What's hindering you? depression, stress, anxiety, anger, self esteem? Do these issues leave you feeling impaired? Just Know, how you deal with the valley can have a lasting effect well after the storm has passed.
Maybe you are here to try to understand an addiction, process grief, unpack trauma, or sort through relational issues.
Breathe, this is just a chapter, not your whole story. We all have things that we may struggle with from time to time, and it is important to find a professional that you can relate to when you need help. I enjoy helping people work through the difficulties of life, with a warm and non-judgmental attitude. My approach to therapy is laid-back and down to earth. Your sessions with me will very much be directed by you. What's hindering you? depression, stress, anxiety, anger, self esteem? Do these issues leave you feeling impaired? Just Know, how you deal with the valley can have a lasting effect well after the storm has passed.
(216) 238-0153 View (216) 238-0153
Photo of Cherie A White - Cherie A. White Inc., PCC-s, Counselor
Cherie A. White Inc.
Counselor, PCC-s
Verified Verified
Lyndhurst, OH 44124  (Online Only)
Some of the presenting issues I have successfully treated, have been, but not limited to; ADHD, Anxiety, Child Abuse/Neglect, Depression, Family Conflict, Grief, Military Deployment/Reintegration Concerns and PTSD.
Everyone has experienced emotional distress at some point in his or her life. A good indicator of when it's time to seek professional help, is when stress becomes overwhelming and unmanageable. Recognizing that you need help is the first step toward restoring a healthy life balance.
Some of the presenting issues I have successfully treated, have been, but not limited to; ADHD, Anxiety, Child Abuse/Neglect, Depression, Family Conflict, Grief, Military Deployment/Reintegration Concerns and PTSD.
Everyone has experienced emotional distress at some point in his or her life. A good indicator of when it's time to seek professional help, is when stress becomes overwhelming and unmanageable. Recognizing that you need help is the first step toward restoring a healthy life balance.
(216) 342-3451 View (216) 342-3451
Photo of Tamika Moore, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamika Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Euclid, OH 44121  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
With regard to grief and loss I work with men and women ages 18 - 60.
I work with women ages 18-60 who experience anxiety and depression and desire gain inner peace to move forward to live a meaningful life. Therapy is a journey and it is my privilege to journey with you to your place of wholeness. My goal is to hold space for you where you feel free to show up as yourself without ridicule and judgment. The therapeutic space is a sacred place, where one size does not fit all. It is in this space where you and I will work together towards your individual goals.
With regard to grief and loss I work with men and women ages 18 - 60.
I work with women ages 18-60 who experience anxiety and depression and desire gain inner peace to move forward to live a meaningful life. Therapy is a journey and it is my privilege to journey with you to your place of wholeness. My goal is to hold space for you where you feel free to show up as yourself without ridicule and judgment. The therapeutic space is a sacred place, where one size does not fit all. It is in this space where you and I will work together towards your individual goals.
(440) 496-0581 View (440) 496-0581
Photo of Karen Kernberg Bardenstein, PhD, Psychologist
Karen Kernberg Bardenstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pepper Pike, OH 44124
My specialties include childhood problems with toileting, sleep, emotional and behavioral adjustment and divorce. I work individually with adults and couples, particularly with relationship issues and divorce. I provide mediation/parenting coordination for high conflict parents. The impact of divorce and death on the family is particularly painful for children and for parents who are trying to navigate their own survival.
My specialties include childhood problems with toileting, sleep, emotional and behavioral adjustment and divorce. I work individually with adults and couples, particularly with relationship issues and divorce. I provide mediation/parenting coordination for high conflict parents. The impact of divorce and death on the family is particularly painful for children and for parents who are trying to navigate their own survival.
(216) 365-8658 View (216) 365-8658
Photo of Stephanie Purdom - Wild Hope Therapy - Cleveland , LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wild Hope Therapy - Cleveland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Mayfield, OH 44143
Our therapists specialize in anxiety, depression, perinatal mental health, self esteem, relationships, body image, life transitions, emerging young adults, eating disorders and grief.
At Wild Hope Therapy, we believe that therapy can be impactful and enriching while still feeling down-to-earth and accessible. We value collaboration, cultural humility, and seeing you as the expert of your own experience. Our style is warm and relaxed, but we will always be working diligently with you to develop the tools you need to meet your self-defined goals. We intend to create a space where you feel like you can be yourself, and trust us to hold you to whatever values and objectives we uncover.
Our therapists specialize in anxiety, depression, perinatal mental health, self esteem, relationships, body image, life transitions, emerging young adults, eating disorders and grief.
At Wild Hope Therapy, we believe that therapy can be impactful and enriching while still feeling down-to-earth and accessible. We value collaboration, cultural humility, and seeing you as the expert of your own experience. Our style is warm and relaxed, but we will always be working diligently with you to develop the tools you need to meet your self-defined goals. We intend to create a space where you feel like you can be yourself, and trust us to hold you to whatever values and objectives we uncover.
(216) 677-6886 View (216) 677-6886
Photo of Sharyn Koch, MA,  LPCC-S, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Sharyn Koch
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44121
With expertise in treating anxiety, ADHD, childhood behavior issues, depression, grief, medical conditions/health psychology, midlife transitions, pain management, PTSD/trauma, somatoform disorders, and women's issues, Sharyn is deeply committed to helping her clients navigate life's challenges with resilience and empowerment. Sharyn’s passion lies in using creative interventions to facilitate emotional exploration and promote healing. Drawing upon her background in art therapy, she harnesses the power of creative expression to help clients gain. into their emotions and develop healthy coping skills.
With expertise in treating anxiety, ADHD, childhood behavior issues, depression, grief, medical conditions/health psychology, midlife transitions, pain management, PTSD/trauma, somatoform disorders, and women's issues, Sharyn is deeply committed to helping her clients navigate life's challenges with resilience and empowerment. Sharyn’s passion lies in using creative interventions to facilitate emotional exploration and promote healing. Drawing upon her background in art therapy, she harnesses the power of creative expression to help clients gain. into their emotions and develop healthy coping skills.
(216) 450-6299 View (216) 450-6299
Photo of Melissa Johnson - Humanistic Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor
Humanistic Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lyndhurst, OH 44124
Humanistic Counseling Center is a woman owned business that works with all ages and therapists specialize in a variety of mental health concerns including, but not limited to, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, behavioral issues, relationships, and stress management.
Since 1976, therapists at Humanistic Counseling Center have been successfully supporting individuals, couples, and families in dealing with life’s struggles. Our therapists strive towards creating a safe and supportive environment while meeting individuals where they are at in their readiness to navigate life experiences. It is our mission for our clients to feel seen, supported, and empowered throughout the therapeutic relationship. We provide a collaborative and integrative approach to treatment, and our therapists use an eclectic approach to therapy incorporating CBT, DBT, mindfulness, EMDR, solution-focused, and expressive arts.
Humanistic Counseling Center is a woman owned business that works with all ages and therapists specialize in a variety of mental health concerns including, but not limited to, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, behavioral issues, relationships, and stress management.
Since 1976, therapists at Humanistic Counseling Center have been successfully supporting individuals, couples, and families in dealing with life’s struggles. Our therapists strive towards creating a safe and supportive environment while meeting individuals where they are at in their readiness to navigate life experiences. It is our mission for our clients to feel seen, supported, and empowered throughout the therapeutic relationship. We provide a collaborative and integrative approach to treatment, and our therapists use an eclectic approach to therapy incorporating CBT, DBT, mindfulness, EMDR, solution-focused, and expressive arts.
(216) 238-6425 View (216) 238-6425
Photo of Wendy Weil, LPCC-S
Wendy Weil
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44124
Welcome. I’m here to guide you through your personal challenges. I work with adults and couples seeking support and positive change. My goal is for you to feel “truly seen” and supported by me your therapist as you share, discover and face fears to get yourself to a better place. I work with mood disorders, anxiety, stress, divorce, trauma, neglect, domestic violence, life confusion, medical conditions and grief.
Welcome. I’m here to guide you through your personal challenges. I work with adults and couples seeking support and positive change. My goal is for you to feel “truly seen” and supported by me your therapist as you share, discover and face fears to get yourself to a better place. I work with mood disorders, anxiety, stress, divorce, trauma, neglect, domestic violence, life confusion, medical conditions and grief.
(440) 271-8018 View (440) 271-8018
Photo of Alexandra Burg “Alex”, LISW-S, BCD, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Burg “Alex”
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, BCD, ACSW
Verified Verified
Lyndhurst, OH 44124  (Online Only)
You’re here for a reason; perhaps many. Life can present all kinds of adverse experiences. There is no problem too big or small for which to seek therapy. Do you compare yourself to others only to think that your problems are “pale in comparison”? i.e., “I can handle this on my own.” Perhaps you feel overwhelmed; don’t know where or how to begin? I work with women and utilize feminist empowerment. Reaching out is often the hardest part. Areas of expertise include: Women with PTSD/trauma history; anxiety, depression, relationships, transitions, emotional eating, & loss/ grief. Relief is near. www.CompassionateCounselingforWomen.com
You’re here for a reason; perhaps many. Life can present all kinds of adverse experiences. There is no problem too big or small for which to seek therapy. Do you compare yourself to others only to think that your problems are “pale in comparison”? i.e., “I can handle this on my own.” Perhaps you feel overwhelmed; don’t know where or how to begin? I work with women and utilize feminist empowerment. Reaching out is often the hardest part. Areas of expertise include: Women with PTSD/trauma history; anxiety, depression, relationships, transitions, emotional eating, & loss/ grief. Relief is near. www.CompassionateCounselingforWomen.com
(216) 584-9224 View (216) 584-9224
Photo of Monica Forsberg, MEd, LPCC
Monica Forsberg
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland Heights, OH 44143  (Online Only)
My goal is to help you enhance your life so you can live more fully in the present. Life is a journey, not a destination. If you're feeling anxious, confused, experiencing loss or depressed, reaching out for help is a powerful, courageous first step in your journey to emotional well being. If you're life feels difficult, counseling can help you. Counseling is a collaborative venture with you wanting to change and me, a counselor whose passion is helping you to make those courageous changes and reaching your goals.
My goal is to help you enhance your life so you can live more fully in the present. Life is a journey, not a destination. If you're feeling anxious, confused, experiencing loss or depressed, reaching out for help is a powerful, courageous first step in your journey to emotional well being. If you're life feels difficult, counseling can help you. Counseling is a collaborative venture with you wanting to change and me, a counselor whose passion is helping you to make those courageous changes and reaching your goals.
(216) 503-8356 View (216) 503-8356
Photo of Jason Decker, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason Decker
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Pepper Pike, OH 44124
I believe we all have the innate capacity for growth and change, and sometimes we need help to do so. Entering therapy is a significant step, and I am honored to work with people who have decided to begin their path toward healing. I work with adults, teenagers, and couples who are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, grief, eating disorders, and developmental crises. Using a strengths-based approach, together we will explore difficult thoughts, emotions, and behaviors from a non-judgmental perspective and chart new fulfilling paths.
I believe we all have the innate capacity for growth and change, and sometimes we need help to do so. Entering therapy is a significant step, and I am honored to work with people who have decided to begin their path toward healing. I work with adults, teenagers, and couples who are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, grief, eating disorders, and developmental crises. Using a strengths-based approach, together we will explore difficult thoughts, emotions, and behaviors from a non-judgmental perspective and chart new fulfilling paths.
(440) 595-4526 View (440) 595-4526
Photo of Shavaun Graves Jones, MEd, LPCC-S, Counselor
Shavaun Graves Jones
Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Euclid, OH 44117
I am a Professional Clinical Counselor who reaches out to assist individuals and families who are in need. I strive to assist others in meeting personal goals, resolving areas of concern and achieving healthy lifestyles. My goal is to use my skills and educate others in the specialized field of adult, child and adolescent counseling, personal and social counseling, family counseling, mental health counseling, early childhood mental health counseling, career counseling, educational counseling, grief counseling and diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional disturbance.
I am a Professional Clinical Counselor who reaches out to assist individuals and families who are in need. I strive to assist others in meeting personal goals, resolving areas of concern and achieving healthy lifestyles. My goal is to use my skills and educate others in the specialized field of adult, child and adolescent counseling, personal and social counseling, family counseling, mental health counseling, early childhood mental health counseling, career counseling, educational counseling, grief counseling and diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional disturbance.
(216) 242-4266 View (216) 242-4266
Photo of Martha S Flemming, LPCC-s, LICDC, Counselor
Martha S Flemming
Counselor, LPCC-s, LICDC
Verified Verified
Lyndhurst, OH 44124  (Online Only)
My clients come to me because they are looking for ways to use their strengths to overcome the challenges that life has thrown at them, whether in their individual lives or in their relationships. I help them to deal with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addictions, life transitions, and relationship issues of all kinds. I help children, adolescents and adults across the life span to become their best selves and to live the life that they have been designed to have.
My clients come to me because they are looking for ways to use their strengths to overcome the challenges that life has thrown at them, whether in their individual lives or in their relationships. I help them to deal with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addictions, life transitions, and relationship issues of all kinds. I help children, adolescents and adults across the life span to become their best selves and to live the life that they have been designed to have.
(216) 925-4453 View (216) 925-4453
Photo of Katie Gilbert, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44121  (Online Only)
I believe in the importance of treating the whole person, utilizing motivational interviewing, EMDR, and DBT informed techniques to treat depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, grief, stress, low self-esteem, etc.
I am a licensed independent social worker and have been in the field for more than 15 years, working with a variety of backgrounds and cultures. My holistic focus is on helping people work through whatever might be holding them back and giving them the tools to live happily, guiding them to make the choices and decisions that are right for them. Using a nonjudgmental approach, all are welcome, whether the issue may seem big or small. Together we will work through negative beliefs and get to the root of the matter, freeing you to live life the way you choose.
I believe in the importance of treating the whole person, utilizing motivational interviewing, EMDR, and DBT informed techniques to treat depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, grief, stress, low self-esteem, etc.
I am a licensed independent social worker and have been in the field for more than 15 years, working with a variety of backgrounds and cultures. My holistic focus is on helping people work through whatever might be holding them back and giving them the tools to live happily, guiding them to make the choices and decisions that are right for them. Using a nonjudgmental approach, all are welcome, whether the issue may seem big or small. Together we will work through negative beliefs and get to the root of the matter, freeing you to live life the way you choose.
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See more therapy options for Richmond Heights

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.