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Online Therapists

Photo of Makiko Guji, PsyD, Psychologist
Makiko Guji
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals and couples over 25 to help them with variety of issues including anxiety and stress, relationship, grief and loss, cultural adjustment, parenting, careers, and spiritual growth.
As you are in the process of looking for a therapist, you may already be half-way through resolving your issues. It is said that client's readiness and willingness to make changes is the strongest indicator of successful therapy outcome. As a therapist, I will accompany you in the journey of actualizing your fullest potential by assisting you to develop internal and external resources such as the sense of freedom, choices, healthy sense of self, responsibility, managing life balance, and strong support systems and relationships.
I work with individuals and couples over 25 to help them with variety of issues including anxiety and stress, relationship, grief and loss, cultural adjustment, parenting, careers, and spiritual growth.
As you are in the process of looking for a therapist, you may already be half-way through resolving your issues. It is said that client's readiness and willingness to make changes is the strongest indicator of successful therapy outcome. As a therapist, I will accompany you in the journey of actualizing your fullest potential by assisting you to develop internal and external resources such as the sense of freedom, choices, healthy sense of self, responsibility, managing life balance, and strong support systems and relationships.
(206) 370-4237 View (206) 370-4237
Photo of Mireille Reece - Peninsula Psychological Center, Inc., P.S., PsyD, Psychologist
Peninsula Psychological Center, Inc., P.S.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Silverdale, WA 98383
Life presents many challenges. Our 23 licensed clinical psychologists, social workers, marriage & family therapists and mental health counselors at Peninsula Psychological Center, Inc., P.S. are ready to assist you. We work with people from age 3-90, with experienced therapists in our multispecialty center, helping our clients and their families to clarify their specific concerns and to achieve their goals in therapy. We often help people with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, panic, grief, insomnia & relationship problems. Individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy, and psychological assessment services are available.
Life presents many challenges. Our 23 licensed clinical psychologists, social workers, marriage & family therapists and mental health counselors at Peninsula Psychological Center, Inc., P.S. are ready to assist you. We work with people from age 3-90, with experienced therapists in our multispecialty center, helping our clients and their families to clarify their specific concerns and to achieve their goals in therapy. We often help people with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, panic, grief, insomnia & relationship problems. Individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy, and psychological assessment services are available.
(360) 200-5865 View (360) 200-5865
Photo of Carrie Erickson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carrie Erickson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Maple Valley, WA 98038
Specialties:Depression, Anxiety, Mindfulness, Family/Relationships, LGBQTIA, Infertility, Trauma, Sex/Sexuality, Grief, Women's Health, & Divorce Recovery.
Welcome! I'm a highly skilled Marriage & Family therapist with over 20 years of clinical experience with clients & supervision of interns. I have a B.S. in Communications & a M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy. If you are in need of immediate help/relief or looking for long-term therapy, I can address your concerns as I am trained in both. My areas of expertise are working with adults, teens, relationships, & families looking to create authentic, lasting change. My style is collaborative, compassionate, directive, & fun. Hope is essential for Healing. Resilience is essential to Thrive. You are SAFE with me to achieve both.
Specialties:Depression, Anxiety, Mindfulness, Family/Relationships, LGBQTIA, Infertility, Trauma, Sex/Sexuality, Grief, Women's Health, & Divorce Recovery.
Welcome! I'm a highly skilled Marriage & Family therapist with over 20 years of clinical experience with clients & supervision of interns. I have a B.S. in Communications & a M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy. If you are in need of immediate help/relief or looking for long-term therapy, I can address your concerns as I am trained in both. My areas of expertise are working with adults, teens, relationships, & families looking to create authentic, lasting change. My style is collaborative, compassionate, directive, & fun. Hope is essential for Healing. Resilience is essential to Thrive. You are SAFE with me to achieve both.
(206) 317-5126 View (206) 317-5126
Photo of Sanndra DelSignore - A Welcomed Change, MSW, LICSW, LHMC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Welcomed Change
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LHMC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98499
A family crisis, professional upheaval, personal struggle or challenge, conflict, loss, separation, divorce, break-up, parenting challenge, chronic medical condition or flare up of symptoms due to mental health stress, create difficult situations. With a compassionate focus on practical and reachable goals identified by the client, at her or his pace, new insights and skills can be acquired.
A family crisis, professional upheaval, personal struggle or challenge, conflict, loss, separation, divorce, break-up, parenting challenge, chronic medical condition or flare up of symptoms due to mental health stress, create difficult situations. With a compassionate focus on practical and reachable goals identified by the client, at her or his pace, new insights and skills can be acquired.
(253) 236-9188 View (253) 236-9188
Photo of Issy K Kleiman - Counseling Services for Wellbeing, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Counseling Services for Wellbeing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98166
Mood Disorders, depression/anxiety, Parenting Concerns, Child and Adolescent Behavioral Problems Women’s Issues, pregnancy-related difficulties, PPD, Body image Personal Growth, introspective, spiritual, and emotional exploration Trauma and Loss Interpersonal Issues Interpersonal Issues Family Matters Self-Injury, Transitional Concerns, Addiction.
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
Mood Disorders, depression/anxiety, Parenting Concerns, Child and Adolescent Behavioral Problems Women’s Issues, pregnancy-related difficulties, PPD, Body image Personal Growth, introspective, spiritual, and emotional exploration Trauma and Loss Interpersonal Issues Interpersonal Issues Family Matters Self-Injury, Transitional Concerns, Addiction.
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
(206) 426-0366 View (206) 426-0366
Photo of Tracy L Stewart, MA, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Tracy L Stewart
Counselor, MA, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
For adults struggling with loss of self, maintaining relationships, anxiety and depression, trauma, PTSD or sexual health issues, I provide a safe space for exploration and growth.
I center experiences of Black, Indigenous, & other world-majority cultures, & LGBTQIA+. I appreciate the opportunity to work with you to improve relationships, problem-solve, or reduce your suffering.
For adults struggling with loss of self, maintaining relationships, anxiety and depression, trauma, PTSD or sexual health issues, I provide a safe space for exploration and growth.
I center experiences of Black, Indigenous, & other world-majority cultures, & LGBTQIA+. I appreciate the opportunity to work with you to improve relationships, problem-solve, or reduce your suffering.
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Photo of Lisa Marie Adams, MA, MHP, CMHS, LMHCA, Counselor
Lisa Marie Adams
Counselor, MA, MHP, CMHS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402
It is natural in life to have obstacles put into our path it is what we do with those obstacles that often causes a struggle. I understand that everyone has different struggles in life such as relationship problems; divorce; difficulty raising children; difficulty with peers; mental health symptoms such as depression and anxiety; grief and loss and more. I believe my job as a clinician is to help you learn ways to overcome obstacles and be effective in your life.
It is natural in life to have obstacles put into our path it is what we do with those obstacles that often causes a struggle. I understand that everyone has different struggles in life such as relationship problems; divorce; difficulty raising children; difficulty with peers; mental health symptoms such as depression and anxiety; grief and loss and more. I believe my job as a clinician is to help you learn ways to overcome obstacles and be effective in your life.
(253) 352-4480 View (253) 352-4480
Photo of Robynn Frey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robynn Frey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
My name is Robynn Frey, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am a client-focused and solution-focused therapist in approach. This is your healing journey, and I am honored to be a part of it. With over 10 years of experience, I have had a wide range of experience that enables me to support my clients in many ways. I work with all types of clients who are often struggling with loss and grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. My patience allows me to build trust and a sense of relationship with people who may otherwise struggle to let people in.
My name is Robynn Frey, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am a client-focused and solution-focused therapist in approach. This is your healing journey, and I am honored to be a part of it. With over 10 years of experience, I have had a wide range of experience that enables me to support my clients in many ways. I work with all types of clients who are often struggling with loss and grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. My patience allows me to build trust and a sense of relationship with people who may otherwise struggle to let people in.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Sarah Landrum, MA, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Sarah Landrum
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Woodinville, WA 98072
With over 15 years of experience in mental health, I help individuals and couples discover, create, and sustain the positive changes they seek in their lives. I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. However, I have worked with many mental health issues over the years and frequently work with stress, addiction, motivation, intimacy issues, family conflict, life changes/adjustments, grief, communication issues, emotional regulation, parenting, self-esteem, and personal growth and discovery. I have extensive experience working with adults, teens, couples and families.
With over 15 years of experience in mental health, I help individuals and couples discover, create, and sustain the positive changes they seek in their lives. I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. However, I have worked with many mental health issues over the years and frequently work with stress, addiction, motivation, intimacy issues, family conflict, life changes/adjustments, grief, communication issues, emotional regulation, parenting, self-esteem, and personal growth and discovery. I have extensive experience working with adults, teens, couples and families.
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Photo of Jennifer R Trefonas, MS, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Jennifer R Trefonas
Counselor, MS, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Tukwila, WA 98188
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in HELPING with EMOTIONAL ISSUES: depression, anxiety, grief, RELATIONSHIP trouble, addiction, grief/ LOSS, being BULLIED, low self-esteem, CHILDREN, past ABUSE affecting life presently, WORK problems, trouble at home, SCHOOL issues, parent-child issues, divorce & separation, and balancing work & family.
Hello, I am Jennifer R. Trefonas, MS, LMHC, MHP. I was initially licensed in FL in 1992, moved to WA 2002; licensed WA 2001. I ENJOY assisting INDIVIDUALS, FAMILIES, COUPLES, & CHILDREN in overcoming obstacles. I AM ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Contact me for HELP with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction issues, bullying, grief, feeling shamed, taken advantage of, abuse of any kind, trouble at work, getting along with others, HOW TO BE HAPPY and POSITIVE, hypnosis, and most anything! I'm NOT PARANOID, but that is funny,,,:)
I specialize in HELPING with EMOTIONAL ISSUES: depression, anxiety, grief, RELATIONSHIP trouble, addiction, grief/ LOSS, being BULLIED, low self-esteem, CHILDREN, past ABUSE affecting life presently, WORK problems, trouble at home, SCHOOL issues, parent-child issues, divorce & separation, and balancing work & family.
Hello, I am Jennifer R. Trefonas, MS, LMHC, MHP. I was initially licensed in FL in 1992, moved to WA 2002; licensed WA 2001. I ENJOY assisting INDIVIDUALS, FAMILIES, COUPLES, & CHILDREN in overcoming obstacles. I AM ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Contact me for HELP with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction issues, bullying, grief, feeling shamed, taken advantage of, abuse of any kind, trouble at work, getting along with others, HOW TO BE HAPPY and POSITIVE, hypnosis, and most anything! I'm NOT PARANOID, but that is funny,,,:)
(253) 352-3122 View (253) 352-3122
Photo of Darla Grieco - Calming Connections Counseling, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Calming Connections Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Snohomish, WA 98296  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families dealing with: anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship issues, life transitions, grief and loss, history of trauma, pregnancy issues (conception struggles, pregnancy loss) postpartum issues (birth trauma, postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, breastfeeding support).
My goal is to create a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space in an effort to empower my clients so they can begin to heal and work towards personal growth. I believe in providing compassionate care for all of life's experiences to everyone. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, families, adolescents and children. I hold certifications as a lactation educator and postpartum doula in addition to my counseling license.
I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families dealing with: anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship issues, life transitions, grief and loss, history of trauma, pregnancy issues (conception struggles, pregnancy loss) postpartum issues (birth trauma, postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, breastfeeding support).
My goal is to create a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space in an effort to empower my clients so they can begin to heal and work towards personal growth. I believe in providing compassionate care for all of life's experiences to everyone. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, families, adolescents and children. I hold certifications as a lactation educator and postpartum doula in addition to my counseling license.
(425) 341-3552 View (425) 341-3552
Photo of Sarah Kuhle, MA, LMHCA
Sarah Kuhle
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Do you feel hopeless and discouraged when you think of making changes? Perhaps you just feel stuck and unsure of how to move forward. Life can be overwhelming, especially when experiencing anxiety, grief, uncertainty, or relational conflict. This is where I can help. I have experience working with children and adults from diverse backgrounds who are navigating issues such as life transitions, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma and abuse, relationship issues, and low self-esteem. Therapy can provide a much-needed space for self-reflection and healing. With me, you will find a trustworthy guide in this journey.
Do you feel hopeless and discouraged when you think of making changes? Perhaps you just feel stuck and unsure of how to move forward. Life can be overwhelming, especially when experiencing anxiety, grief, uncertainty, or relational conflict. This is where I can help. I have experience working with children and adults from diverse backgrounds who are navigating issues such as life transitions, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma and abuse, relationship issues, and low self-esteem. Therapy can provide a much-needed space for self-reflection and healing. With me, you will find a trustworthy guide in this journey.
(425) 534-7285 View (425) 534-7285
Photo of Nicole O'Mahoney, LMHCA, Counselor
Nicole O'Mahoney
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bonney Lake, WA 98391
Are life's challenges getting in the way of living the life you want to live? Are these challenges having a negative impact on your everyday life? Sometimes, we need a little extra support overcoming these challenges. As a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, I am passionate about helping others and providing the support necessary to improve the quality of life of my clients. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgemental environment and strive to develop strong therapeutic relationships with each of my clients. I believe that every individual is unique and that each person's experiences shape their perspectives and realities.
Are life's challenges getting in the way of living the life you want to live? Are these challenges having a negative impact on your everyday life? Sometimes, we need a little extra support overcoming these challenges. As a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, I am passionate about helping others and providing the support necessary to improve the quality of life of my clients. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgemental environment and strive to develop strong therapeutic relationships with each of my clients. I believe that every individual is unique and that each person's experiences shape their perspectives and realities.
(253) 487-0884 View (253) 487-0884
Photo of Stacy J Heinle, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacy J Heinle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027
Hi! Looking for a therapist is not easy, great job taking the first step. Choosing someone to work with on issues of depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, the addiction of loved ones, unexpected life changes, complex trauma, secondary trauma, is also no small feat. My approach is to create a safe and healing space for us to talk about and work through tough issues, to listen and hear your experience, to guide you to potential solutions and find ways of achieving your goals. I have 20 years of experience working with individuals and couples facing challenges and believe anything is possible.
Hi! Looking for a therapist is not easy, great job taking the first step. Choosing someone to work with on issues of depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, the addiction of loved ones, unexpected life changes, complex trauma, secondary trauma, is also no small feat. My approach is to create a safe and healing space for us to talk about and work through tough issues, to listen and hear your experience, to guide you to potential solutions and find ways of achieving your goals. I have 20 years of experience working with individuals and couples facing challenges and believe anything is possible.
(425) 532-4352 View (425) 532-4352
Photo of Louis Poeltl - Neupathway (Louis Poeltl), LPC, LMHC, SUDP, Counselor
Neupathway (Louis Poeltl)
Counselor, LPC, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Louis Poeltl Ed.S, NCC, C-DBT, LMHC, LPC is a clinical mental health counselor with over 15 years of experience providing therapeutic services to diverse populations, including children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. With a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling and an Education Specialist Degree in Family Counseling, Louis is especially suited to incorporate clients’ familial and cultural backgrounds to uncover negative internalized beliefs that are holding back clients from living their best lives now.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Louis Poeltl Ed.S, NCC, C-DBT, LMHC, LPC is a clinical mental health counselor with over 15 years of experience providing therapeutic services to diverse populations, including children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. With a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling and an Education Specialist Degree in Family Counseling, Louis is especially suited to incorporate clients’ familial and cultural backgrounds to uncover negative internalized beliefs that are holding back clients from living their best lives now.
(425) 541-8958 View (425) 541-8958
Photo of Scarlett Funkhouser, LMHC, CPC, HMA, MA, Counselor
Scarlett Funkhouser
Counselor, LMHC, CPC, HMA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98407
Email me for faster response! I am currently pursuing a Doctorate in Psychology and have established myself as a reputable Licensed Mental Health Counselor with more than a decade of experience. Throughout my career, I have successfully worked with individuals of all ages, offering therapy for a diverse array of psychological concerns. My expertise encompasses a wide range of mental health issues, including but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, family and parenting difficulties, stress management, trauma, drug and alcohol-related issues, and navigating life changes.
Email me for faster response! I am currently pursuing a Doctorate in Psychology and have established myself as a reputable Licensed Mental Health Counselor with more than a decade of experience. Throughout my career, I have successfully worked with individuals of all ages, offering therapy for a diverse array of psychological concerns. My expertise encompasses a wide range of mental health issues, including but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, family and parenting difficulties, stress management, trauma, drug and alcohol-related issues, and navigating life changes.
(206) 495-6815 View (206) 495-6815
Photo of Melanie - Eastside Counseling Center, LMFT, LMHC, LCSW
Eastside Counseling Center
LMFT, LMHC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034
Are relationship issues, anxiety and/or depression keeping you up at night? The counselors at ECC will work with you to help you improve the quality of your your life and your relationships. Our dynamic team of counselors seek to understand and resolve the real-life, everyday challenges many of us face. We work with a wide range of issues and have a diverse team of therapists trained in a variety of specialties. This allows us to create a personalized treatment plan to meet your individual needs.
Are relationship issues, anxiety and/or depression keeping you up at night? The counselors at ECC will work with you to help you improve the quality of your your life and your relationships. Our dynamic team of counselors seek to understand and resolve the real-life, everyday challenges many of us face. We work with a wide range of issues and have a diverse team of therapists trained in a variety of specialties. This allows us to create a personalized treatment plan to meet your individual needs.
(425) 405-7857 View (425) 405-7857
Photo of Janette Allred Howarth, PhD, LCPC, LMHP, Counselor
Janette Allred Howarth
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LMHP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
My professional interests and current training experience are in the area of personality and mood disorders. I have certification in treating psychological trauma and it connection to addiction. It is critical that professionals are trained in handling psychological trauma and addiction brought on by a variety of factors, including mental health factors. I identify the basis of negative emotional reactivity, look at the motivational factors of deviant behavior or impulsive behaviors in general and assist the client in gaining healthy life skills that will help them through their difficulties.
My professional interests and current training experience are in the area of personality and mood disorders. I have certification in treating psychological trauma and it connection to addiction. It is critical that professionals are trained in handling psychological trauma and addiction brought on by a variety of factors, including mental health factors. I identify the basis of negative emotional reactivity, look at the motivational factors of deviant behavior or impulsive behaviors in general and assist the client in gaining healthy life skills that will help them through their difficulties.
(425) 620-3179 View (425) 620-3179
Photo of Alicia Rule - Rule and Associates, Child/Family Specialists, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rule and Associates, Child/Family Specialists
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
We offer a full spectrum of parenting and family support for all types of families. We believe that healthy families create strong communities and with the right support, families, children and their communities can thrive. Parenting and marriage doesn’t come with an instruction book, but our experienced and professional, outcomes-based support professionals can be by your side to meet you right where you are at on your journey. We have a diverse, but small group of licensed mental health professionals and family support specialists to help you every step of the way.
We offer a full spectrum of parenting and family support for all types of families. We believe that healthy families create strong communities and with the right support, families, children and their communities can thrive. Parenting and marriage doesn’t come with an instruction book, but our experienced and professional, outcomes-based support professionals can be by your side to meet you right where you are at on your journey. We have a diverse, but small group of licensed mental health professionals and family support specialists to help you every step of the way.
(360) 734-0615 View (360) 734-0615
Photo of Ashley Brewer - Onward & Upward Counseling Center, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Onward & Upward Counseling Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Marysville, WA 98271  (Online Only)
I have a passion to help individuals who have experienced trauma of human trafficking victimization to help them heal through surviving & eventually thriving in a meaningful life they desire to maintain. I offer a safe space to heal & not be judged while building self worth & work through other areas of trauma endured & been exposed to. I am huge on recognizing a person's strengths & empowering others, which gets incorporated into my practice. This specific passion expands to other types of trauma, ADHD, families, couples, anxiety, depression, etc. I enjoy helping those who have been misunderstood & offer emotional validation.
I have a passion to help individuals who have experienced trauma of human trafficking victimization to help them heal through surviving & eventually thriving in a meaningful life they desire to maintain. I offer a safe space to heal & not be judged while building self worth & work through other areas of trauma endured & been exposed to. I am huge on recognizing a person's strengths & empowering others, which gets incorporated into my practice. This specific passion expands to other types of trauma, ADHD, families, couples, anxiety, depression, etc. I enjoy helping those who have been misunderstood & offer emotional validation.
(719) 496-8859 View (719) 496-8859

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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.