Grief Therapists in Johnson City, TN

Photo of Kay Collake, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kay Collake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Common areas of practice include anxiety and depression management, women's issues, support with chronic illness, minority stress, trauma, relationship difficulties, and grief/loss.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed with the competing priorities of daily life? Stuck in unhealthy patterns such as overuse of alcohol, procrastination, or emotional eating? Are your days spent battling perfectionism and negative self-talk? Would you like to be more active socially but struggle with anxiety or feelings of low self-worth? Hi. I’m Kay. Congratulations on taking the first step toward living your best life! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 15 years of experience providing psychotherapy, assessment, and referral services to adults, children, and families.
Common areas of practice include anxiety and depression management, women's issues, support with chronic illness, minority stress, trauma, relationship difficulties, and grief/loss.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed with the competing priorities of daily life? Stuck in unhealthy patterns such as overuse of alcohol, procrastination, or emotional eating? Are your days spent battling perfectionism and negative self-talk? Would you like to be more active socially but struggle with anxiety or feelings of low self-worth? Hi. I’m Kay. Congratulations on taking the first step toward living your best life! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 15 years of experience providing psychotherapy, assessment, and referral services to adults, children, and families.
(615) 392-6827 View (615) 392-6827
Photo of Mollie Creel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mollie Creel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37602
Waitlist for new clients
She works with children, teens, adults, and families with trauma, depression and anxiety, grief and loss, and adoption issues.
Feeling lost or stuck? Facing a big life change? Do you feel like you, your child, or your family could use a little extra help navigating life? Life can be challenging and unexpected events happen. Whatever you are facing, let’s work through it! I believe that you are the expert of your own experiences and I am here to come alongside you to provide you with the tools and resources you need to make the changes you want in your life. I will meet you where you are because your safety and trust are very important to me. I am here to listen and provide feedback to help you learn more about yourself and how you interact with the world.
She works with children, teens, adults, and families with trauma, depression and anxiety, grief and loss, and adoption issues.
Feeling lost or stuck? Facing a big life change? Do you feel like you, your child, or your family could use a little extra help navigating life? Life can be challenging and unexpected events happen. Whatever you are facing, let’s work through it! I believe that you are the expert of your own experiences and I am here to come alongside you to provide you with the tools and resources you need to make the changes you want in your life. I will meet you where you are because your safety and trust are very important to me. I am here to listen and provide feedback to help you learn more about yourself and how you interact with the world.
(423) 799-2192 View (423) 799-2192
Photo of Tracy Nalory Fultz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy Nalory Fultz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37602  (Online Only)
Does childhood trauma or past traumatic experiences continue to cause you pain? Do you need help working through experiences of infidelity and betrayal? Have you experienced a significant loss and need help managing grief? Do you find yourself struggling with people pleasing and setting boundaries? If you answered yes to any of these questions it is my desire to come along side of you in order to help you navigate your healing and recovery journey. I know for some it is hard to connect through video that is why I work to create a space for you to feel safe, heard, and challenged in order to get to the place you desire to be.
Does childhood trauma or past traumatic experiences continue to cause you pain? Do you need help working through experiences of infidelity and betrayal? Have you experienced a significant loss and need help managing grief? Do you find yourself struggling with people pleasing and setting boundaries? If you answered yes to any of these questions it is my desire to come along side of you in order to help you navigate your healing and recovery journey. I know for some it is hard to connect through video that is why I work to create a space for you to feel safe, heard, and challenged in order to get to the place you desire to be.
(423) 226-5663 View (423) 226-5663
Photo of Nathan Gibson, LPC Intern
Nathan Gibson
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37604
Through a client-centered approach, I strive to foster an environment where clients feel seen and heard. I see individuals 16 years and older from all walks of life. I primarily work with grief and loss, trauma, low self-esteem, behavioral addictions, attachment wounds, anxiety, depression, and lack of direction/purpose, and religious trauma. I am passionate about working with LGBTQ+ populations. My therapeutic approach combines a variety of evidence-based approaches, but primarily pulls from narrative, person-centered, and internal family system theories.
Through a client-centered approach, I strive to foster an environment where clients feel seen and heard. I see individuals 16 years and older from all walks of life. I primarily work with grief and loss, trauma, low self-esteem, behavioral addictions, attachment wounds, anxiety, depression, and lack of direction/purpose, and religious trauma. I am passionate about working with LGBTQ+ populations. My therapeutic approach combines a variety of evidence-based approaches, but primarily pulls from narrative, person-centered, and internal family system theories.
(423) 592-8801 View (423) 592-8801
Photo of Sarah McCray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah McCray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Sarah assists clients who are experiencing a wide range of issues including: anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, grief and loss, and life transitions.
Sarah graduated from East Tennessee State University with her Bachelor's degree in Social Work and her Master's degree in Social Work. She specializes in work with adolescents, emerging adults, and the adult population. Sarah is trained as a Brainspotting Practitioner. She places a large emphasis on building trust and rapport with her clients. Sarah is a firm believer in meeting her clients where they are in the present moment. Sarah sees her clients as the unique, multidimensional individuals that they are. She uses the Person-In-Environment perspective with her clients.
Sarah assists clients who are experiencing a wide range of issues including: anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, grief and loss, and life transitions.
Sarah graduated from East Tennessee State University with her Bachelor's degree in Social Work and her Master's degree in Social Work. She specializes in work with adolescents, emerging adults, and the adult population. Sarah is trained as a Brainspotting Practitioner. She places a large emphasis on building trust and rapport with her clients. Sarah is a firm believer in meeting her clients where they are in the present moment. Sarah sees her clients as the unique, multidimensional individuals that they are. She uses the Person-In-Environment perspective with her clients.
(423) 556-3032 View (423) 556-3032
Photo of Jana Dobesova, LPC, MHSP, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jana Dobesova
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37604  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, grief, pet loss, life transitions, vocational stress, depression, trauma and parenting among other topics.
Welcome. I am glad you are here. I know life can be overwhelming at times. I believe that together we can start an exciting journey of tapping into the many strengths that will help you become the person you want to be. That means that perhaps you want to be happier, more confident, more at peace with your past, and an overcomer. It is okay to be brave and scared at the same time. It takes courage to take the first steps toward a change and a more fulfilling life. I am here to support you on your journey.
I specialize in anxiety, grief, pet loss, life transitions, vocational stress, depression, trauma and parenting among other topics.
Welcome. I am glad you are here. I know life can be overwhelming at times. I believe that together we can start an exciting journey of tapping into the many strengths that will help you become the person you want to be. That means that perhaps you want to be happier, more confident, more at peace with your past, and an overcomer. It is okay to be brave and scared at the same time. It takes courage to take the first steps toward a change and a more fulfilling life. I am here to support you on your journey.
(423) 556-9730 View (423) 556-9730
Photo of Katie McCain - Katie McCain-Rooted Hope Biblical Counseling , MA, CBC
Katie McCain-Rooted Hope Biblical Counseling
MA, CBC
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Are you worn out, weary, and looking for hope and growth from a Biblical, Christ-centered resource? Do you want to grow in your relationship with Christ as you face life's challenges and hardships? At Rooted Hope Biblical Counseling, I provide Gospel-centered, clinically informed Biblical counseling to women, and female youth facing a variety of issues that include but are not limited to: anxiety, identity in Christ, depression, loneliness, addictive/unhelpful habits, grief, confusion, relational strains, unhealthy obsessions, and more.
Are you worn out, weary, and looking for hope and growth from a Biblical, Christ-centered resource? Do you want to grow in your relationship with Christ as you face life's challenges and hardships? At Rooted Hope Biblical Counseling, I provide Gospel-centered, clinically informed Biblical counseling to women, and female youth facing a variety of issues that include but are not limited to: anxiety, identity in Christ, depression, loneliness, addictive/unhelpful habits, grief, confusion, relational strains, unhealthy obsessions, and more.
(423) 740-4818 View (423) 740-4818
Photo of Aaron Free, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aaron Free
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
I have assisted clients in navigating triggers, relational discomfort, anxiety, grief, depression, compulsions (OCD), body dysmorphia, gender related experiences, and many other experiences.
I am a counselor that values the depth of human relationships. I use a variety of therapeutic interventions that can be summarized as somatic and attachment focused, relational, and mindful. All of these interventions are built off of the idea of present moment awareness. This means that I use each moment as potential for awareness into your inner experience. I spend time assisting each client in expanding their window of tolerance for discomfort as well as developing tools and techniques for structural changes. I am experienced working with general mental health concerns as well as what people identify as trauma and PTSD.
I have assisted clients in navigating triggers, relational discomfort, anxiety, grief, depression, compulsions (OCD), body dysmorphia, gender related experiences, and many other experiences.
I am a counselor that values the depth of human relationships. I use a variety of therapeutic interventions that can be summarized as somatic and attachment focused, relational, and mindful. All of these interventions are built off of the idea of present moment awareness. This means that I use each moment as potential for awareness into your inner experience. I spend time assisting each client in expanding their window of tolerance for discomfort as well as developing tools and techniques for structural changes. I am experienced working with general mental health concerns as well as what people identify as trauma and PTSD.
(423) 353-9040 View (423) 353-9040
Photo of Desarei Hoss, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Desarei Hoss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37604  (Online Only)
We all experience hardships in life, whether sudden or gradual. My experience of 15 years includes working with clients experiencing various life challenges including chronic health issues, grief, family dynamics and personal trauma to providing specialized care for Veterans facing combat-related stress and the effects of redeployment on personal and family well being. My approach emphasizes collaboration and affirmation, cultivating a safe and trusting therapeutic environment where clients feel empowered to explore their emotions and navigate their journey toward healing and resilience.
We all experience hardships in life, whether sudden or gradual. My experience of 15 years includes working with clients experiencing various life challenges including chronic health issues, grief, family dynamics and personal trauma to providing specialized care for Veterans facing combat-related stress and the effects of redeployment on personal and family well being. My approach emphasizes collaboration and affirmation, cultivating a safe and trusting therapeutic environment where clients feel empowered to explore their emotions and navigate their journey toward healing and resilience.
(423) 516-8148 View (423) 516-8148
Photo of Amanda K Chapman, LPC, MHSP, MBE, ANFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda K Chapman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MBE, ANFT
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
There are times in life we feel lost, confused and adrift. I can relate and believe we're all connected. I offer a unique approach to therapy that combines spiritual guidance with the healing power of nature. Whether you're dealing with life changes, grief, depression, anxiety, or seeking inner child healing, I'm here to support you. As an experienced Counselor, Ecotherapist, and Certified Spiritual Life Coach, I've devoted my life's work to providing presence and objective voice for support and guidance, within an office setting as well as outdoors in nature. Please visit www.oneforestworld.com to learn more about me. Welcome!
There are times in life we feel lost, confused and adrift. I can relate and believe we're all connected. I offer a unique approach to therapy that combines spiritual guidance with the healing power of nature. Whether you're dealing with life changes, grief, depression, anxiety, or seeking inner child healing, I'm here to support you. As an experienced Counselor, Ecotherapist, and Certified Spiritual Life Coach, I've devoted my life's work to providing presence and objective voice for support and guidance, within an office setting as well as outdoors in nature. Please visit www.oneforestworld.com to learn more about me. Welcome!
(423) 250-2218 View (423) 250-2218
Photo of Laura Maxwell, LPC/MHS, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Laura Maxwell
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LPC/MHS
Not Verified Not Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Laura specializes in anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, relationship issues and life transitions.
Laura Maxwell is a psychotherapist licensed to practice in Tennessee and Virginia. She holds a Master of Arts in Counseling from East Tennessee State University and a Master of Education from West Texas A&M University. She has experience working in various clinical settings, including community mental health, higher education, inpatient and private practice.
Laura specializes in anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, relationship issues and life transitions.
Laura Maxwell is a psychotherapist licensed to practice in Tennessee and Virginia. She holds a Master of Arts in Counseling from East Tennessee State University and a Master of Education from West Texas A&M University. She has experience working in various clinical settings, including community mental health, higher education, inpatient and private practice.
(423) 481-9124 View (423) 481-9124
Photo of Emmanuel S John, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emmanuel S John
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
My name is Emmanuel S. John. I am a Psychotherapist/counselor and author in the Tri-Cities area of TN. I've been working with individuals, couples and families for more than 30 years. I help people with personal emotional struggles of all kinds; Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, Grief, Trauma and PTSD just to name a few. I have a proven track record and you will see results after every session. I can help but not until you call. I am taking new clients. Cash services, insurance is not necessary. Invest the effort, you're worth it! (Ever consider online therapy? Let's talk.)
My name is Emmanuel S. John. I am a Psychotherapist/counselor and author in the Tri-Cities area of TN. I've been working with individuals, couples and families for more than 30 years. I help people with personal emotional struggles of all kinds; Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, Grief, Trauma and PTSD just to name a few. I have a proven track record and you will see results after every session. I can help but not until you call. I am taking new clients. Cash services, insurance is not necessary. Invest the effort, you're worth it! (Ever consider online therapy? Let's talk.)
(423) 302-0338 View (423) 302-0338
Photo of David Sapp, LPC, MHSP, LSPE, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Sapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, LSPE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
David walks alongside his clients in times of depression, anxiety, overwhelming grief, and life-altering circumstances.
David Sapp is Licensed in the State of Tennessee as a Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Senior Psychological Examiner (LSPE). David relocated to Tennessee after growing up in New York. He received his undergraduate degree in Psychology from Milligan University and his Masters of Education in Counseling from East Tennessee State University. He has worked for 35 years as a Professional Counselor in East Tennessee in a variety of settings including outpatient counseling as well as schools, nursing homes, hospitals, and jails. In addition, David has been an adjunct instructor at Milligan University.
David walks alongside his clients in times of depression, anxiety, overwhelming grief, and life-altering circumstances.
David Sapp is Licensed in the State of Tennessee as a Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Senior Psychological Examiner (LSPE). David relocated to Tennessee after growing up in New York. He received his undergraduate degree in Psychology from Milligan University and his Masters of Education in Counseling from East Tennessee State University. He has worked for 35 years as a Professional Counselor in East Tennessee in a variety of settings including outpatient counseling as well as schools, nursing homes, hospitals, and jails. In addition, David has been an adjunct instructor at Milligan University.
(423) 556-3788 View (423) 556-3788
Photo of Sybil R Smith - The Journey Center for Healing Arts, PLLC, MA, LPCS, FAMI, MT-BC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Journey Center for Healing Arts, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS, FAMI, MT-BC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37604
At The Journey Center for Healing Arts, we are passionate about helping people move beyond their past and into a full, authentic life. Trauma affects us all at some level - surviving physical pain, emotional pain, or spiritual pain - and it can keep us from living the life we want. We want to see you thrive through your healing process instead of continuing to struggle with worry, overwhelm, anxiety, depression, grief, and unhealthy relationships.
At The Journey Center for Healing Arts, we are passionate about helping people move beyond their past and into a full, authentic life. Trauma affects us all at some level - surviving physical pain, emotional pain, or spiritual pain - and it can keep us from living the life we want. We want to see you thrive through your healing process instead of continuing to struggle with worry, overwhelm, anxiety, depression, grief, and unhealthy relationships.
(423) 408-8041 View (423) 408-8041
Photo of Sara Anderson, LPC, MHSP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
Sara Anderson is a Licensed Professional Counselor "“ Mental Health Service Provider. Sara is passionate about restoration and healing brokenness. She is deeply committed to helping clients answer life's big questions, gain insight into their emotions, and live authentically. Sara assists people throughout their lifespan, supporting them as they navigate anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, faith questions, emerging adulthood, and relationship issues. Sara grew up in Southeast Asia and spent another 10 years living and working abroad after university.
Sara Anderson is a Licensed Professional Counselor "“ Mental Health Service Provider. Sara is passionate about restoration and healing brokenness. She is deeply committed to helping clients answer life's big questions, gain insight into their emotions, and live authentically. Sara assists people throughout their lifespan, supporting them as they navigate anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, faith questions, emerging adulthood, and relationship issues. Sara grew up in Southeast Asia and spent another 10 years living and working abroad after university.
(423) 556-3197 View (423) 556-3197
Photo of Carly Hedrick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carly Hedrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Carly has worked previously in a variety of settings, most recently in outpatient community mental health, where she assisted clients with a wide range of symptoms, including anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, grief, chronic illness, low self-esteem, life transitions, and relationship and parenting issues.
Carly Hedrick is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Tennessee. Carly graduated with her Master's degree in Social Work from East Tennessee State University. She also earned a Master's degree in Divinity from Emmanuel Christian Seminary. Carly’s approach to therapy is shaped by past occupational experiences which have taught her to sit with others in painful emotions and stressful circumstances and listen with compassion, curiosity, and acceptance.
Carly has worked previously in a variety of settings, most recently in outpatient community mental health, where she assisted clients with a wide range of symptoms, including anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, grief, chronic illness, low self-esteem, life transitions, and relationship and parenting issues.
Carly Hedrick is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Tennessee. Carly graduated with her Master's degree in Social Work from East Tennessee State University. She also earned a Master's degree in Divinity from Emmanuel Christian Seminary. Carly’s approach to therapy is shaped by past occupational experiences which have taught her to sit with others in painful emotions and stressful circumstances and listen with compassion, curiosity, and acceptance.
(423) 482-9816 View (423) 482-9816
Photo of Linda Steele, MLS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Steele
Marriage & Family Therapist, MLS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself wondering why you're where you are in life...what brought you to this point? What is the meaning of this crisis in my life? Is there a purpose for my life? My approach to therapy is founded in Carl Jung's Depth Psychology and is useful for all life's problems that come our way - depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, grief, relationships, career and aging as well as for reflection and personal growth. Together we can find the answers to these questions. My approach is holistic, warm, client centered and non judgmental.
Do you find yourself wondering why you're where you are in life...what brought you to this point? What is the meaning of this crisis in my life? Is there a purpose for my life? My approach to therapy is founded in Carl Jung's Depth Psychology and is useful for all life's problems that come our way - depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, grief, relationships, career and aging as well as for reflection and personal growth. Together we can find the answers to these questions. My approach is holistic, warm, client centered and non judgmental.
(423) 438-1749 View (423) 438-1749
Photo of Mary Allison, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Allison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37604
My approach to therapy is to respect each individual as a whole person. I believe each person knows himself or herself best. Loss of jobs, relationships, chemical addiction, life transitions, trauma, abuse and the stress of day to day living come with an array of thoughts and emotions, which at some points in our lives can become overwhelming. We start to feel like nothing can get better, and begin to self-destruct or stay stuck, out of fear of the unknown or poor habits. I use an eclectic approach, pulling together different types of therapies tailored to what would be most beneficial to the particular client.
My approach to therapy is to respect each individual as a whole person. I believe each person knows himself or herself best. Loss of jobs, relationships, chemical addiction, life transitions, trauma, abuse and the stress of day to day living come with an array of thoughts and emotions, which at some points in our lives can become overwhelming. We start to feel like nothing can get better, and begin to self-destruct or stay stuck, out of fear of the unknown or poor habits. I use an eclectic approach, pulling together different types of therapies tailored to what would be most beneficial to the particular client.
(423) 445-7468 View (423) 445-7468
Photo of Kelly Munier, MS, LPCMHSP, Counselor
Kelly Munier
Counselor, MS, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Waitlist for new clients
I have supported parents in dealing with their children's behavior problems, and helped children deal with anxiety, grief, depression, stress, attention-deficit problems, and substance abuse, just to name a few.
Are you looking for a counselor who is passionate about working with children, adolescents, and young adults and their families and helping them grow and change? Are you questioning your parenting skills or are concerned about your child's behavior? Is your child and your family having trouble dealing with a major change like a trauma? Are you troubled by your teenager's worries and sadness? I am here to help! I look forward to talking with you further! **Please see my website: www.growinglightcounseling.com for additional information.
I have supported parents in dealing with their children's behavior problems, and helped children deal with anxiety, grief, depression, stress, attention-deficit problems, and substance abuse, just to name a few.
Are you looking for a counselor who is passionate about working with children, adolescents, and young adults and their families and helping them grow and change? Are you questioning your parenting skills or are concerned about your child's behavior? Is your child and your family having trouble dealing with a major change like a trauma? Are you troubled by your teenager's worries and sadness? I am here to help! I look forward to talking with you further! **Please see my website: www.growinglightcounseling.com for additional information.
(423) 709-8185 View (423) 709-8185
Photo of Ben Wagner, MA
Ben Wagner
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37604
Are you struggling with the aftermath of trauma, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or navigating a challenging life transition? Whether you’re dealing with the lingering effects of sexual abuse, childhood trauma, or adult-onset abuse, it can be difficult to find a path forward. You may also be a college student facing unique pressures, or someone experiencing grief and loss, unsure of how to move through the pain. Whatever you’re going through, it’s okay to seek help—you don’t have to do this alone.
Are you struggling with the aftermath of trauma, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or navigating a challenging life transition? Whether you’re dealing with the lingering effects of sexual abuse, childhood trauma, or adult-onset abuse, it can be difficult to find a path forward. You may also be a college student facing unique pressures, or someone experiencing grief and loss, unsure of how to move through the pain. Whatever you’re going through, it’s okay to seek help—you don’t have to do this alone.
(423) 719-7334 View (423) 719-7334
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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.