Grief Therapists in Cranston, RI

Photo of Natalie Clark, MSW, LICSW, LCDP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCDP
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02910  (Online Only)
My experiences working in varied settings for over 25 years, which has given me the opportunity to work with individuals who face substance use, grief and trauma.
I believe therapy is an opportunity to learn more about yourself, and your interactions w/ others. Therapy can help when facing conflicts, emotional challenges, or adjusting to changes in your life. I have over 25 years of clinical experience, with the mental health and substance use disorder populations, working with men, women and couples. I use an eclectic, collaborative approach, individual to a persons needs. I provide a nonjudgmental, welcoming approach and make an effort to establish a strong trusting relationship. Appointments are available by both phone and video.
My experiences working in varied settings for over 25 years, which has given me the opportunity to work with individuals who face substance use, grief and trauma.
I believe therapy is an opportunity to learn more about yourself, and your interactions w/ others. Therapy can help when facing conflicts, emotional challenges, or adjusting to changes in your life. I have over 25 years of clinical experience, with the mental health and substance use disorder populations, working with men, women and couples. I use an eclectic, collaborative approach, individual to a persons needs. I provide a nonjudgmental, welcoming approach and make an effort to establish a strong trusting relationship. Appointments are available by both phone and video.
(401) 304-9648 View (401) 304-9648
Photo of Genna Companatico, LMHC-A
Genna Companatico
Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHC-A
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02910
My experience includes depression, anxiety, grief/ loss, and social issues.
Accepting new clients! Hi! My name is Genna, and I am a mental health counselor. I have my bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of New England and my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Rhode Island College.
My experience includes depression, anxiety, grief/ loss, and social issues.
Accepting new clients! Hi! My name is Genna, and I am a mental health counselor. I have my bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of New England and my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Rhode Island College.
(401) 388-6605 View (401) 388-6605
Photo of Mark S O'Neill, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark S O'Neill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02920  (Online Only)
Alone. It's how so many of us feel inside. Even in the midst of a career, relationship or family, we may feel unseen and unheard, have trouble setting boundaries and priorities, find ourselves coping inauthentically, while experiencing a yearning for connection, meaning and a sense of deeper purpose. Others may be living with chronic illness or pain or have suffered a significant loss in their lives. I know exactly how that feels, and more importantly, as a Transformational Coach and Interfaith Minister, I know how you can experience a safer, more powerful, authentic, and connected way to walk in the world.
Alone. It's how so many of us feel inside. Even in the midst of a career, relationship or family, we may feel unseen and unheard, have trouble setting boundaries and priorities, find ourselves coping inauthentically, while experiencing a yearning for connection, meaning and a sense of deeper purpose. Others may be living with chronic illness or pain or have suffered a significant loss in their lives. I know exactly how that feels, and more importantly, as a Transformational Coach and Interfaith Minister, I know how you can experience a safer, more powerful, authentic, and connected way to walk in the world.
(401) 279-8089 View (401) 279-8089
Photo of Mari Dias, EdD, NCC, FT, GC-C, CG-C, Counselor
Mari Dias
Counselor, EdD, NCC, FT, GC-C, CG-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02910
As both a thanatologist and certified grief counselor and a former hospice volunteer I find bereavement and end of life counseling is where I belong. It is humbling and gratifying; I am privileged to work with grieving a loss, both expected or traumatic, as well as spending the remaining months of an individual's life with them.I am also certified in complicated grief and hold a certificate in Psychological Autopsy autopsy. Moreover, I am a certified death doula.
As both a thanatologist and certified grief counselor and a former hospice volunteer I find bereavement and end of life counseling is where I belong. It is humbling and gratifying; I am privileged to work with grieving a loss, both expected or traumatic, as well as spending the remaining months of an individual's life with them.I am also certified in complicated grief and hold a certificate in Psychological Autopsy autopsy. Moreover, I am a certified death doula.
(401) 659-4188 View (401) 659-4188
Photo of Bernadette Coletta, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bernadette Coletta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02921  (Online Only)
Welcome! As a Psychotherapist specializing in supporting individuals through challenging times caused by depression, anxiety, or grief and loss, I'm here to help you find peace. Whether it's coping with the loss of a loved one, a job, or feeling adrift without purpose, remember, you're not alone. Let's collaborate on discovering your inner strength, reclaiming purpose, and boosting your confidence to embrace life. My aim is to provide a peaceful, non-judgmental space where you can feel accepted and supported. You've taken a brave step reaching out for help; together, let's navigate this journey.
Welcome! As a Psychotherapist specializing in supporting individuals through challenging times caused by depression, anxiety, or grief and loss, I'm here to help you find peace. Whether it's coping with the loss of a loved one, a job, or feeling adrift without purpose, remember, you're not alone. Let's collaborate on discovering your inner strength, reclaiming purpose, and boosting your confidence to embrace life. My aim is to provide a peaceful, non-judgmental space where you can feel accepted and supported. You've taken a brave step reaching out for help; together, let's navigate this journey.
(401) 592-3335 View (401) 592-3335
Photo of Judith Hart, LMHC, CAGS, Counselor
Judith Hart
Counselor, LMHC, CAGS
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02905
Hello, my name is Judy Hart. I have been a licensed mental health therapist since 2008. I believe that each person has the strength within themselves to grow and change through life's challenges and losses. I specialize in grief therapy, anxiety, mood disorders, and life transitions. My therapeutic focus is on individual therapy with adolescents 16-18, emerging adults 18-26, adults, and adults in later years. I accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Neighborhood Healthcare, Cigna, and United/Optum Healthcare.
Hello, my name is Judy Hart. I have been a licensed mental health therapist since 2008. I believe that each person has the strength within themselves to grow and change through life's challenges and losses. I specialize in grief therapy, anxiety, mood disorders, and life transitions. My therapeutic focus is on individual therapy with adolescents 16-18, emerging adults 18-26, adults, and adults in later years. I accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Neighborhood Healthcare, Cigna, and United/Optum Healthcare.
(401) 566-8953 View (401) 566-8953
Photo of Melissa Epstein - CORE Coping, LLC, Melissa, Epstein, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
CORE Coping, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Melissa, Epstein, LICSW
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02910
Now welcoming new clients. At CORE Coping Centers, we understand that life can sometimes be overwhelming. Our clients often come to us when they’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, parenting or relationship issues, or family conflict. The pressures of daily life can significantly impact your mental, emotional, and physical health. We are committed to helping you reclaim your well-being and achieve the healthiest version of yourself. Our therapists are skilled in providing personalized care, meeting you exactly where you are on your path to healing.
Now welcoming new clients. At CORE Coping Centers, we understand that life can sometimes be overwhelming. Our clients often come to us when they’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, parenting or relationship issues, or family conflict. The pressures of daily life can significantly impact your mental, emotional, and physical health. We are committed to helping you reclaim your well-being and achieve the healthiest version of yourself. Our therapists are skilled in providing personalized care, meeting you exactly where you are on your path to healing.
(401) 420-5437 View (401) 420-5437
Photo of Brianna Cooley, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Brianna Cooley
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02921
I have worked in different settings with presentations that include but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, relationships issues, adjustments to changes in life, behavioral issues, grief and loss, trauma, and body image and self-esteem concerns.
Hi, I am so glad you are here! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Rhode Island. Providing a safe space for you is a valuable part of the work I do with helping individuals in counseling express themselves. You may have been told many things about therapy and you will find that there is no right time to start therapy and no one-way therapy looks. It is a place created to come as you are and your mental health is a significant part of your overall well-being. My experience working with individuals across the lifespan of development has given me understanding, connection building, and a strengths-based approach to treatment.
I have worked in different settings with presentations that include but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, relationships issues, adjustments to changes in life, behavioral issues, grief and loss, trauma, and body image and self-esteem concerns.
Hi, I am so glad you are here! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Rhode Island. Providing a safe space for you is a valuable part of the work I do with helping individuals in counseling express themselves. You may have been told many things about therapy and you will find that there is no right time to start therapy and no one-way therapy looks. It is a place created to come as you are and your mental health is a significant part of your overall well-being. My experience working with individuals across the lifespan of development has given me understanding, connection building, and a strengths-based approach to treatment.
(401) 388-3342 View (401) 388-3342
Photo of Danielle DeSantis - Dr. Danielle DeSantis, PsyD, LMFT, PsyD, LMFT, Psychologist
Dr. Danielle DeSantis, PsyD, LMFT
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02920  (Online Only)
I focus on careful assessment and helping those in need of clinical services using a variety of evidenced based approaches. In my practice, I use a variety of treatment modalities such as individual, couple, group, and family therapy depending on individual needs. I have much experience working with psychiatric and behavioral problems such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, trauma-related disorders and so on. Teaching individuals how to manage and cope with symptoms of grief, marital problems, family conflict, divorce, parenting issues, and other relational problems are additional areas of specialty.
I focus on careful assessment and helping those in need of clinical services using a variety of evidenced based approaches. In my practice, I use a variety of treatment modalities such as individual, couple, group, and family therapy depending on individual needs. I have much experience working with psychiatric and behavioral problems such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, trauma-related disorders and so on. Teaching individuals how to manage and cope with symptoms of grief, marital problems, family conflict, divorce, parenting issues, and other relational problems are additional areas of specialty.
(401) 371-0223 View (401) 371-0223
Photo of Sarah Wignall, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Wignall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02905
I believe all clients are competent and capable, but stress, anxiety, loss, and conflict distort clarity and damage connection.
I often meet clients when they are experiencing a difficult transition or conflict within the systems that matter most to them: typically family, friends, and self. I also make space for grief and loss, so that the experience is not isolating and intolerable. Through a variety of modalities I focus on the client's voice, experience, and barriers to personal contentment: this enables the client to be an active part of therapy, tapping into skills, solutions, and hope that might be out of reach without support.
I believe all clients are competent and capable, but stress, anxiety, loss, and conflict distort clarity and damage connection.
I often meet clients when they are experiencing a difficult transition or conflict within the systems that matter most to them: typically family, friends, and self. I also make space for grief and loss, so that the experience is not isolating and intolerable. Through a variety of modalities I focus on the client's voice, experience, and barriers to personal contentment: this enables the client to be an active part of therapy, tapping into skills, solutions, and hope that might be out of reach without support.
(401) 264-8309 View (401) 264-8309
Photo of Sandrine Fujah, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandrine Fujah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02920  (Online Only)
Whether you’re learning to set boundaries, navigating a loss or life transition, or seeking to change unproductive behavior patterns, I am here to support you.
Feeling disconnected from yourself or others? Struggling to prioritize your needs amidst life’s demands? Wondering if there’s a way to make life feel more fulfilling and joyful? It’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about how to manage your relationships, career, and personal well-being. Neglecting your needs can lead to long-term issues for both your mind and body, but you don’t have to face these challenges alone. I am passionate about helping people live their best lives.
Whether you’re learning to set boundaries, navigating a loss or life transition, or seeking to change unproductive behavior patterns, I am here to support you.
Feeling disconnected from yourself or others? Struggling to prioritize your needs amidst life’s demands? Wondering if there’s a way to make life feel more fulfilling and joyful? It’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about how to manage your relationships, career, and personal well-being. Neglecting your needs can lead to long-term issues for both your mind and body, but you don’t have to face these challenges alone. I am passionate about helping people live their best lives.
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Photo of Rebecca Flores (Expressive Art Therapist), MS, CAGS, REAT, Art Therapist
Rebecca Flores (Expressive Art Therapist)
Art Therapist, MS, CAGS, REAT
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02920
15yrs ago, after the loss of my teenage daughter to violence, I decided to make a difference in the lives of women and youth.
It can be challenging to recognize that changes need to be made in your life and in your relationships. Yet, when conflicts begin to resolve and life becomes “smoother,” therapy becomes its own reward. As a therapist, I focus on creating a trusting and compassionate environment where you will feel safe in areas that await healing. I offer a shelter where you will learn to identify patterns that keep you ‘stuck’ and where you can explore new approaches and strategies that will allow your potential to b lossom.
15yrs ago, after the loss of my teenage daughter to violence, I decided to make a difference in the lives of women and youth.
It can be challenging to recognize that changes need to be made in your life and in your relationships. Yet, when conflicts begin to resolve and life becomes “smoother,” therapy becomes its own reward. As a therapist, I focus on creating a trusting and compassionate environment where you will feel safe in areas that await healing. I offer a shelter where you will learn to identify patterns that keep you ‘stuck’ and where you can explore new approaches and strategies that will allow your potential to b lossom.
(401) 208-2264 View (401) 208-2264
Photo of Janet Marquez - Janet Marquez LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janet Marquez LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02910
My specialties include work with couples and families, issues of anxiety, depression, grief and managing ADHD in the couple and family context.
My approach to therapy is customized for you to give you the optimal environment to explore what is giving you distress, what you are questioning, and opportunities for personal growth. I work with you to address your challenges and identify ways to manage them. My work is through evidence based approaches. I treat adults , couples, and families in a safe and supportive manner. I will complete an assessment of your current status, identify treatment goals, and make a plan for your treatment with you. I work at a pace with which you are comfortable, taking into account the goals you have identified.
My specialties include work with couples and families, issues of anxiety, depression, grief and managing ADHD in the couple and family context.
My approach to therapy is customized for you to give you the optimal environment to explore what is giving you distress, what you are questioning, and opportunities for personal growth. I work with you to address your challenges and identify ways to manage them. My work is through evidence based approaches. I treat adults , couples, and families in a safe and supportive manner. I will complete an assessment of your current status, identify treatment goals, and make a plan for your treatment with you. I work at a pace with which you are comfortable, taking into account the goals you have identified.
(401) 400-2692 View (401) 400-2692
Photo of Robin Cahill - Stop Look & Listen LLC, BSN RN, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stop Look & Listen LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSN RN, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02920
At Stop Look and Listen Psychotherapy Offices, we work with adults of all ages, including elderly. We help you develop coping skills to deal with depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, substance abuse, family conflict including domestic violence, legal issues, loss of health, problems in the work place, loss of family and grief, as well as dealing with aging and pain management. We have expertise in dealing with trauma and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).
At Stop Look and Listen Psychotherapy Offices, we work with adults of all ages, including elderly. We help you develop coping skills to deal with depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, substance abuse, family conflict including domestic violence, legal issues, loss of health, problems in the work place, loss of family and grief, as well as dealing with aging and pain management. We have expertise in dealing with trauma and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).
(401) 399-3457 View (401) 399-3457
Photo of Rosa G. Giron, LMHC, LCDP, NCC, PMH-C, Counselor
Rosa G. Giron
Counselor, LMHC, LCDP, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02921
Working with both communities has allowed me to work with clients experiencing life transitions, loss/separation, and relationship challenges.
As a Latina therapist I take great care in developing a safe and collaborative relationship with my clients, as it is a key conductor towards healing, hope and change. Together we will identify systems that impact your well-being and use new and existing strengths to help you achieve your goals as you embark in the healing process. I would love to assist in navigating any perinatal concerns by empowering you with resources to help with transitional times in your life. Envíame un mensaje para conectarte con una terapeuta que habla español!
Working with both communities has allowed me to work with clients experiencing life transitions, loss/separation, and relationship challenges.
As a Latina therapist I take great care in developing a safe and collaborative relationship with my clients, as it is a key conductor towards healing, hope and change. Together we will identify systems that impact your well-being and use new and existing strengths to help you achieve your goals as you embark in the healing process. I would love to assist in navigating any perinatal concerns by empowering you with resources to help with transitional times in your life. Envíame un mensaje para conectarte con una terapeuta que habla español!
(401) 312-4566 View (401) 312-4566
Photo of Natalie Clark, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02920
This experience and years of working with people who struggle and live with mental health issues, substance use, grief, and/or trauma has provided me with the skills necessary to guide and support those who are seeking help.
Hello, my name is Natalie Clark, and I am a licensed clinical social work, and a licensed chemical dependency professional. I live in Cranston, Rhode Island, and have been practicing therapy both telephonically, and by video. I work with men women, couples and families who are facing conflicts, emotional challenges, or adjusting to changes in their lives. I have over 25 years of clinical experience, working with those who struggle with mental health and substance use disorders. I have over 25 years' experience working in a variety of modalities and settings.
This experience and years of working with people who struggle and live with mental health issues, substance use, grief, and/or trauma has provided me with the skills necessary to guide and support those who are seeking help.
Hello, my name is Natalie Clark, and I am a licensed clinical social work, and a licensed chemical dependency professional. I live in Cranston, Rhode Island, and have been practicing therapy both telephonically, and by video. I work with men women, couples and families who are facing conflicts, emotional challenges, or adjusting to changes in their lives. I have over 25 years of clinical experience, working with those who struggle with mental health and substance use disorders. I have over 25 years' experience working in a variety of modalities and settings.
(401) 812-4517 View (401) 812-4517
Photo of Kelly A Sheehan - Kelly Sheehan LICSW, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Sheehan LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02910
She also see clients coping with grief & loss, and with those struggling with anxiety and self-esteem concerns.
Immediate Openings OCT 2024: M-Th: 7a-3p. Licensed in RI & MA; Kelly works with adults & seniors. She enjoys working with clients considered "high achievers" & those with adjustment or transitional difficulties, troubles in relationships & folks with LGBTQIA+ concerns. She works with individuals who identify as ACOA, and people struggling with perfectionism & procrastination. Kelly helps individuals with boundary-setting & direct communication. She hopes you'll consider her an ally. Kelly spent several years working in an oncology clinic, supporting clients & caregivers dealing with cancer diagnoses as well as in private practice.
She also see clients coping with grief & loss, and with those struggling with anxiety and self-esteem concerns.
Immediate Openings OCT 2024: M-Th: 7a-3p. Licensed in RI & MA; Kelly works with adults & seniors. She enjoys working with clients considered "high achievers" & those with adjustment or transitional difficulties, troubles in relationships & folks with LGBTQIA+ concerns. She works with individuals who identify as ACOA, and people struggling with perfectionism & procrastination. Kelly helps individuals with boundary-setting & direct communication. She hopes you'll consider her an ally. Kelly spent several years working in an oncology clinic, supporting clients & caregivers dealing with cancer diagnoses as well as in private practice.
(401) 214-6217 View (401) 214-6217
Photo of Priscilla Heslin, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Priscilla Heslin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02910
I work with issues such as: depression, people in transitions, PTSD, anxiety, stress , grief and loss, relationship problems, low self esteem.
Welcome! I believe any problem large or small can be approached and solved in the right setting. I provide counseling for adults, I have been in the field for the past 30 years. My approach is holistic, safe, confidential, and a nurturing ‘space’ that allows you to take a deep breath and relax. It is then that you and I can work on the right solutions for the issues at hand. The goals are for you to learned tools from our sessions that you keep on using after therapy has ended. And resolve issues that you are struggling in your life.
I work with issues such as: depression, people in transitions, PTSD, anxiety, stress , grief and loss, relationship problems, low self esteem.
Welcome! I believe any problem large or small can be approached and solved in the right setting. I provide counseling for adults, I have been in the field for the past 30 years. My approach is holistic, safe, confidential, and a nurturing ‘space’ that allows you to take a deep breath and relax. It is then that you and I can work on the right solutions for the issues at hand. The goals are for you to learned tools from our sessions that you keep on using after therapy has ended. And resolve issues that you are struggling in your life.
(401) 369-5099 View (401) 369-5099
Photo of Christine Emond, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Emond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02910
I am here to assist adults experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, stress management, communication skills, career / life transitions, and work - related challenges. I provide a therapeutic supportive environment so that individuals can explore what has limited them from achieving their goals. I provide honest, direct support that allows individuals to work with their strengths to solve problems, develop personally and create a happier, healthier life for themselves. Give me a call or email to get started. Now Accepting new clients. Established clients may be offered telehealth sessions.
I am here to assist adults experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, stress management, communication skills, career / life transitions, and work - related challenges. I provide a therapeutic supportive environment so that individuals can explore what has limited them from achieving their goals. I provide honest, direct support that allows individuals to work with their strengths to solve problems, develop personally and create a happier, healthier life for themselves. Give me a call or email to get started. Now Accepting new clients. Established clients may be offered telehealth sessions.
(401) 246-7173 View (401) 246-7173
Photo of Amy Johanna Ahlberg, MA, CGS, LMHC, Counselor
Amy Johanna Ahlberg
Counselor, MA, CGS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02920
Many of my clients contact me for support in one or more areas of their life that are challenging, such as marital or relationship discord; job or career dissatisfaction; feeling that life is passing one by; uncertainty with one's path in life; disproportionate dwelling on the past or future; or seeking empathic support for grief, loss, or unresolved past or recent trauma. Most ask to learn skills to increase distress tolerance, reduce ruminations, accept uncertainty, nurture self-compassion and self-worth, improve communication style, navigate co-existence with a difficult, unavoidable person (relative, colleague , etc), and more.
Many of my clients contact me for support in one or more areas of their life that are challenging, such as marital or relationship discord; job or career dissatisfaction; feeling that life is passing one by; uncertainty with one's path in life; disproportionate dwelling on the past or future; or seeking empathic support for grief, loss, or unresolved past or recent trauma. Most ask to learn skills to increase distress tolerance, reduce ruminations, accept uncertainty, nurture self-compassion and self-worth, improve communication style, navigate co-existence with a difficult, unavoidable person (relative, colleague , etc), and more.
(401) 227-3735 View (401) 227-3735
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.