Grief Therapists in Shoreline, WA

Photo of Amy Barker D'Alessandro, LMHC, Counselor
Amy Barker D'Alessandro
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98133  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Amy provides caring treatment regarding Adoption/Foster Care issues, Adult Adoptees, Birth Parents, Birth Family Reunions, PTSD, trauma recovery, grief and loss, identity struggles, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, children of divorce, cross-cultural adjustments, and more.
Amy Barker D'Alessandro, Adoption and Trauma Therapist, offers specialized counseling, coaching, consulting, supervision, and public speaking services. Amy holds a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology, is a fully licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington state, and is trained in Relational Psychotherapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Attachment Focused Therapy, Filial Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy. She currently works with individuals of all ages, families of all kinds, general counseling clients, and several monthly groups, ongoing retreats, and events.
Amy provides caring treatment regarding Adoption/Foster Care issues, Adult Adoptees, Birth Parents, Birth Family Reunions, PTSD, trauma recovery, grief and loss, identity struggles, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, children of divorce, cross-cultural adjustments, and more.
Amy Barker D'Alessandro, Adoption and Trauma Therapist, offers specialized counseling, coaching, consulting, supervision, and public speaking services. Amy holds a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology, is a fully licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington state, and is trained in Relational Psychotherapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Attachment Focused Therapy, Filial Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy. She currently works with individuals of all ages, families of all kinds, general counseling clients, and several monthly groups, ongoing retreats, and events.
(206) 661-2566 View (206) 661-2566
Photo of Lea Fairbanks, LMHC, CCGS, CCTP, Counselor
Lea Fairbanks
Counselor, LMHC, CCGS, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98155
Openings available both in person and telehealth (new clients & supervises). Life can be messy, painful and lonely. Therapy emerges as a sacred space in which we can navigate the intricate layers of life, fostering reconnection and a deeper self-understanding. Embracing a psychodynamic approach, my commitment is to accompany you on a transformative journey of self-exploration. Together, we will encourage a curious exploration of your identity and shedding light on patterns that may no longer serve you. My specialties are working with clients who are grappling with trauma, perfectionism, grief, anxiety, depression and addiction.
Openings available both in person and telehealth (new clients & supervises). Life can be messy, painful and lonely. Therapy emerges as a sacred space in which we can navigate the intricate layers of life, fostering reconnection and a deeper self-understanding. Embracing a psychodynamic approach, my commitment is to accompany you on a transformative journey of self-exploration. Together, we will encourage a curious exploration of your identity and shedding light on patterns that may no longer serve you. My specialties are working with clients who are grappling with trauma, perfectionism, grief, anxiety, depression and addiction.
(425) 441-3401 View (425) 441-3401
Photo of Dave Werner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dave Werner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98155  (Online Only)
Congratulations! You have realized that you can't do it all yourself. Spring is a great time to work on self. I want to "walk" with you as you navigate the challenges of family, school, work, relationships, stress or transitions that you are facing. I have 20 years of experience supporting individuals, youth and families with anxiety, depression, transitions, grief, trauma and day-to-day stressors. I am a client centered therapist who is passionate about uncovering your strengths to help you achieve your goals.
Congratulations! You have realized that you can't do it all yourself. Spring is a great time to work on self. I want to "walk" with you as you navigate the challenges of family, school, work, relationships, stress or transitions that you are facing. I have 20 years of experience supporting individuals, youth and families with anxiety, depression, transitions, grief, trauma and day-to-day stressors. I am a client centered therapist who is passionate about uncovering your strengths to help you achieve your goals.
(206) 800-8544 View (206) 800-8544
Photo of Nathan Mayes - Opening Heart Therapy, LMHCA, Counselor
Opening Heart Therapy
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98155  (Online Only)
I'm Nathan Mayes, and it's an honor to welcome you to Opening Heart Therapy. Whether you are experiencing the deep pain of loss, the loneliness of heartbreak, or the heavy weight of grief, your journey is unique, and so is the healing process. Here, you’ll find a safe haven where your heart can begin to heal.
I'm Nathan Mayes, and it's an honor to welcome you to Opening Heart Therapy. Whether you are experiencing the deep pain of loss, the loneliness of heartbreak, or the heavy weight of grief, your journey is unique, and so is the healing process. Here, you’ll find a safe haven where your heart can begin to heal.
(425) 970-8483 View (425) 970-8483
Photo of Dr. Jill Gross, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jill Gross
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Shoreline, WA 98133
When we tend lovingly to our grief, transitions like death, separation, divorce, and mid-life challenges can actually be invitations to live more fully.
When the unwanted or unexpected happens, it is as if the whole world has imploded. If left untended, grief can show up in ways that don't serve us. We can lose ourselves in alcohol, sleep, work--anything to numb the pain. Some of us lash out or withdraw from the people and things that give our lives meaning (e.g., family, friends, community). It doesn't have to be this way! I specialize in helping people whose lives have been affected by illness or death, separation or divorce, and mid-life issues (parenting struggles, caring for aging parents, etc.).
When we tend lovingly to our grief, transitions like death, separation, divorce, and mid-life challenges can actually be invitations to live more fully.
When the unwanted or unexpected happens, it is as if the whole world has imploded. If left untended, grief can show up in ways that don't serve us. We can lose ourselves in alcohol, sleep, work--anything to numb the pain. Some of us lash out or withdraw from the people and things that give our lives meaning (e.g., family, friends, community). It doesn't have to be this way! I specialize in helping people whose lives have been affected by illness or death, separation or divorce, and mid-life issues (parenting struggles, caring for aging parents, etc.).
(206) 647-6432 View (206) 647-6432
Photo of Terry Green, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Terry Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98133
As the wife of a Vietnam Vet, I understand the challenges many veteran couples and families face with transitions, secondary trauma, grief, and loss.
Couples or individuals struggling with conflict, stress, or overwhelming circumstances will find a safe place here to sort their thoughts and feelings about the issues while learning to repair and create deeper connections with loved ones. As a systems therapist, I understand the challenges of life transitions and help strengthen couple relationships and family cohesion and resilience through various life challenges. For clients struggling with past family of origin issues, we work to heal difficult memories. I help clients grow from brokenness, trauma, grief and loss to find healing, hope, peace and a new direction.
As the wife of a Vietnam Vet, I understand the challenges many veteran couples and families face with transitions, secondary trauma, grief, and loss.
Couples or individuals struggling with conflict, stress, or overwhelming circumstances will find a safe place here to sort their thoughts and feelings about the issues while learning to repair and create deeper connections with loved ones. As a systems therapist, I understand the challenges of life transitions and help strengthen couple relationships and family cohesion and resilience through various life challenges. For clients struggling with past family of origin issues, we work to heal difficult memories. I help clients grow from brokenness, trauma, grief and loss to find healing, hope, peace and a new direction.
(206) 569-5580 View (206) 569-5580
Photo of Cyndee M Baldwin, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Cyndee M Baldwin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98177
I will help you to have more meaningful relationships in life, utilize your talents and abilities more fully, maintain a more truthful and accurate self-esteem, have more satisfying sexual relationships, understand yourself and others in a more meaningful way, and face life's challenges with greater freedom and flexibility. My specialty is relational psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and groups which aids in transformation for most issues in life: grief, loss, anxiety, depression and transition, to name a few. Take the step today toward your own transformation and healing, a lifelong investment.
I will help you to have more meaningful relationships in life, utilize your talents and abilities more fully, maintain a more truthful and accurate self-esteem, have more satisfying sexual relationships, understand yourself and others in a more meaningful way, and face life's challenges with greater freedom and flexibility. My specialty is relational psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and groups which aids in transformation for most issues in life: grief, loss, anxiety, depression and transition, to name a few. Take the step today toward your own transformation and healing, a lifelong investment.
(425) 358-3404 View (425) 358-3404
Photo of Gwen Wilson, MA, LMHC, MHP, ATR, Counselor
Gwen Wilson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP, ATR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98155
Change happens! Maybe your life changed in a single event or slowly over time. It could be a loss of a person, a job, your health, or just the way things were. Sometimes the script of what you thought your world was about has flipped or no longer fits your new situation. We are in difficult times; our once reliable ways of coping and caring for ourselves may not work as well today. Even if you feel unsure of what’s possible, I can support you in finding new tools and revising your story to better fit your present needs and values. Let’s work together to discover what works best for you so you can get back to living your life.
Change happens! Maybe your life changed in a single event or slowly over time. It could be a loss of a person, a job, your health, or just the way things were. Sometimes the script of what you thought your world was about has flipped or no longer fits your new situation. We are in difficult times; our once reliable ways of coping and caring for ourselves may not work as well today. Even if you feel unsure of what’s possible, I can support you in finding new tools and revising your story to better fit your present needs and values. Let’s work together to discover what works best for you so you can get back to living your life.
(206) 752-5653 View (206) 752-5653
Photo of Adriana Reedy, BA, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Adriana Reedy
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98133  (Online Only)
Whether facing grief, burnout, caregiver fatigue, trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, or feeling stuck, I'm here to support you toward the life you want to live.
Life can be messy, and we often do what we need to survive in this chaotic world. As a queer mountain woman familiar with both rural and urban settings, I understand how environments impact how we navigate the world. Whether facing a major change, finding your usual strategies ineffective, or feeling stuck, I’m here to meet you where you’re at and help you get to where you want to be. I embrace a nonjudgmental, strengths-based approach that honors your unique experiences. With a sense of humor and compassion, I create a safe space for you to freely express yourself and collaboratively explore your goals.
Whether facing grief, burnout, caregiver fatigue, trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, or feeling stuck, I'm here to support you toward the life you want to live.
Life can be messy, and we often do what we need to survive in this chaotic world. As a queer mountain woman familiar with both rural and urban settings, I understand how environments impact how we navigate the world. Whether facing a major change, finding your usual strategies ineffective, or feeling stuck, I’m here to meet you where you’re at and help you get to where you want to be. I embrace a nonjudgmental, strengths-based approach that honors your unique experiences. With a sense of humor and compassion, I create a safe space for you to freely express yourself and collaboratively explore your goals.
(425) 225-3355 View (425) 225-3355
Photo of Nichole Speaks, MA, LMHCA
Nichole Speaks
Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98155
Whether you seek support for anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, eating disorders, grief and loss, or career and personal growth, I am here to offer unwavering guidance and assistance throughout your journey.
I am Nichole Speaks, a compassionate Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate who acknowledges the courage and vulnerability it takes to seek therapy. Consequently, I endeavor to create a secure and nurturing environment, encouraging you to openly explore your thoughts, emotions, and obstacles. Recognizing the power of connection and collaboration, I work alongside you to craft customized strategies that align precisely with your unique aspirations and requirements. I have a special interest, training and experience working with those experiencing substance use disorders, grief and loss, end of life, co-occurring and adolescents.
Whether you seek support for anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, eating disorders, grief and loss, or career and personal growth, I am here to offer unwavering guidance and assistance throughout your journey.
I am Nichole Speaks, a compassionate Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate who acknowledges the courage and vulnerability it takes to seek therapy. Consequently, I endeavor to create a secure and nurturing environment, encouraging you to openly explore your thoughts, emotions, and obstacles. Recognizing the power of connection and collaboration, I work alongside you to craft customized strategies that align precisely with your unique aspirations and requirements. I have a special interest, training and experience working with those experiencing substance use disorders, grief and loss, end of life, co-occurring and adolescents.
(206) 567-7706 View (206) 567-7706
Photo of Monique Chang-Goit, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monique Chang-Goit
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Shoreline, WA 98133
I work with adults, couples and families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relational conflicts, parenting, grief, sexuality, intimacy and other issues that come with life.
My passion is to help individuals and families discover their strengths and resources. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a post-graduate certificate in Medical Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University. I am a Certified Sex Therapist by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists. I am a Mental Health Professional, Brainspotting practitioner, Child Mental Health Professional, State and AAMFT Approved Supervisor and Asian and Pacific Islander Ethnic Minority Mental Health Specialist.
I work with adults, couples and families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relational conflicts, parenting, grief, sexuality, intimacy and other issues that come with life.
My passion is to help individuals and families discover their strengths and resources. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a post-graduate certificate in Medical Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University. I am a Certified Sex Therapist by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists. I am a Mental Health Professional, Brainspotting practitioner, Child Mental Health Professional, State and AAMFT Approved Supervisor and Asian and Pacific Islander Ethnic Minority Mental Health Specialist.
(206) 984-8351 View (206) 984-8351
Photo of Julie Amundson - Julie Amundson LMHC, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Julie Amundson LMHC
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Shoreline, WA 98133  (Online Only)
Change, worry, and upsets are a given. But so is the ability to adjust, heal, create, plan and live more fully. Challenging life experiences can cause us to feel stuck: grief, trauma, unending decision-making, constant fear or worry. We suffer when we are not flowing in heart, head and body. When we carry too much emotional pain, we need to move from isolation to connectedness, gain insight, and find our way.
Change, worry, and upsets are a given. But so is the ability to adjust, heal, create, plan and live more fully. Challenging life experiences can cause us to feel stuck: grief, trauma, unending decision-making, constant fear or worry. We suffer when we are not flowing in heart, head and body. When we carry too much emotional pain, we need to move from isolation to connectedness, gain insight, and find our way.
(206) 203-3998 View (206) 203-3998
Photo of Anne C Grisham-Pleas - Stillpoint Therapy Services, LMHC, SUDP, Counselor
Stillpoint Therapy Services
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98155
My therapy style blends the use of a compassionate and non-judgmental approach. I see clients who have a history of trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, grief, codependency, and perfectionism issues. I help clients achieve freedom from limiting beliefs, compulsions, and emotional distress. I create a sacred and safe space for you to share your story with me and to be vulnerable in your therapy. You deserve to learn the skills to manage symptoms of emotional distress and build a peaceful and rewarding life.
My therapy style blends the use of a compassionate and non-judgmental approach. I see clients who have a history of trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, grief, codependency, and perfectionism issues. I help clients achieve freedom from limiting beliefs, compulsions, and emotional distress. I create a sacred and safe space for you to share your story with me and to be vulnerable in your therapy. You deserve to learn the skills to manage symptoms of emotional distress and build a peaceful and rewarding life.
(206) 743-9992 View (206) 743-9992
Photo of David Ketola, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
David Ketola
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Shoreline, WA 98133  (Online Only)
I am passionate about creating a safe and welcoming space for people to process their struggles and their desires. Whether you are struggling with a specific problem (anxiety, stress, healthy sexuality, grief, marriage or relationship issues); questions about your work, career, vocation; or want someone to process life changes with, I will partner with you for hope, healing and change.
I am passionate about creating a safe and welcoming space for people to process their struggles and their desires. Whether you are struggling with a specific problem (anxiety, stress, healthy sexuality, grief, marriage or relationship issues); questions about your work, career, vocation; or want someone to process life changes with, I will partner with you for hope, healing and change.
(206) 589-8977 View (206) 589-8977
Nicole Kinion
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Shoreline, WA 98177
My background includes working with clients struggling with: bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress, acute trauma response, DV/abuse/sexual assault history, coping with chronic/terminal illness, caregiver stress/fatigue, relationship difficulties, codependence, grief & loss, and substance abuse/addiction issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stuck, unsure how to make life more fulfilling? When stress becomes too much a part of our daily lives it helps to have a space and time in which we can talk through it all with someone who can help us find a new perspective. Counseling is an investment in yourself and your well-being. It can be just what is needed to calm the chaos and find energy and motivation that helps you to move from just getting by to living a full, engaging life.
My background includes working with clients struggling with: bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress, acute trauma response, DV/abuse/sexual assault history, coping with chronic/terminal illness, caregiver stress/fatigue, relationship difficulties, codependence, grief & loss, and substance abuse/addiction issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stuck, unsure how to make life more fulfilling? When stress becomes too much a part of our daily lives it helps to have a space and time in which we can talk through it all with someone who can help us find a new perspective. Counseling is an investment in yourself and your well-being. It can be just what is needed to calm the chaos and find energy and motivation that helps you to move from just getting by to living a full, engaging life.
(425) 600-7192 View (425) 600-7192
Photo of Alana Casey, LMHC, Counselor
Alana Casey
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98133
I help in recovering from depression, anxiety, weakened relationships and friendships, a loss of connection with others in general, or a loss of sense of self.
Deep, respectful understanding is one of the most important things to have from someone. I have found that when one receives this deep respect, great reservoirs of untapped strength are opened. Through it, I have seen people find hope, creativity, and happiness.
I help in recovering from depression, anxiety, weakened relationships and friendships, a loss of connection with others in general, or a loss of sense of self.
Deep, respectful understanding is one of the most important things to have from someone. I have found that when one receives this deep respect, great reservoirs of untapped strength are opened. Through it, I have seen people find hope, creativity, and happiness.
(206) 202-0982 View (206) 202-0982
Photo of Lesley Joy Ritchie, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Lesley Joy Ritchie
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Shoreline, WA 98133
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently FULL other than Nature Therapy meet ups! I am an Attachment-Focused Trauma Therapist for 10 years now and I find joy working with all ages, including children, teens, families, parents and adults. My specialty is working with families (biological, foster or adoptive) to heal from trauma and to build better attachment/attunement. Also, individuals who are seeking therapy who have been deeply affected by grief, developmental trauma, ptsd, domestic violence, anxiety/depression will benefit from my integrative, solution-focused trauma-informed therapeutic approach that builds attunement and interconnectedness.
I am currently FULL other than Nature Therapy meet ups! I am an Attachment-Focused Trauma Therapist for 10 years now and I find joy working with all ages, including children, teens, families, parents and adults. My specialty is working with families (biological, foster or adoptive) to heal from trauma and to build better attachment/attunement. Also, individuals who are seeking therapy who have been deeply affected by grief, developmental trauma, ptsd, domestic violence, anxiety/depression will benefit from my integrative, solution-focused trauma-informed therapeutic approach that builds attunement and interconnectedness.
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Photo of Renee Calm - Calm Counseling, LLC  -  Renee Calm, MS, LMFT, Sup, Marriage & Family Therapist
Calm Counseling, LLC - Renee Calm
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, Sup
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98155
My training is in systems therapy, which examines the many facets of our lives interact. In therapy, we often look at how surrounding relationships and past experiences effect our current beliefs and values. If emotions and mood are difficult to manage, or there is difficulty adjusting to developmental and life stage changes, I offer support and tools to work through this. These challenges often arise for young adults, new mothers, managing intimate relationships and employment transitions. Too often, grief and loss bring up painful struggles for individuals and families. Therapy can be helpful in these most challenging times.
My training is in systems therapy, which examines the many facets of our lives interact. In therapy, we often look at how surrounding relationships and past experiences effect our current beliefs and values. If emotions and mood are difficult to manage, or there is difficulty adjusting to developmental and life stage changes, I offer support and tools to work through this. These challenges often arise for young adults, new mothers, managing intimate relationships and employment transitions. Too often, grief and loss bring up painful struggles for individuals and families. Therapy can be helpful in these most challenging times.
(206) 535-1886 View (206) 535-1886
Photo of Sharon Aboosaidi, PhD, Counselor
Sharon Aboosaidi
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Shoreline, WA 98133
I focus on depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, loss, grief, abuse, and legal issues.
Counseling can offer an understanding of the behaviors, beliefs and emotions that fuel our daily interactions with families and other people. Therapy is a process. My job is to facilitate you through possible change options. It is my goal to work with you closely during therapy to aid in clarifying your goals for treatment, explore patterns and choices of communication, relationships, life style and foster development of beneficial coping strategies with commitment on both parts during therapy. The main goal is to explore patterns of behavior, thoughts, and actions to foster positive change and personal growth.
I focus on depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, loss, grief, abuse, and legal issues.
Counseling can offer an understanding of the behaviors, beliefs and emotions that fuel our daily interactions with families and other people. Therapy is a process. My job is to facilitate you through possible change options. It is my goal to work with you closely during therapy to aid in clarifying your goals for treatment, explore patterns and choices of communication, relationships, life style and foster development of beneficial coping strategies with commitment on both parts during therapy. The main goal is to explore patterns of behavior, thoughts, and actions to foster positive change and personal growth.
(206) 745-3402 View (206) 745-3402
Photo of Dr. Teresa Evans, ND, NP-CNM, IBCLC
Dr. Teresa Evans
ND, NP-CNM, IBCLC
Verified Verified
Shoreline, WA 98155  (Online Only)
Greetings! Are you looking for support towards the life you really want? Are you looking to work with a medical provider who can help you manage anxiety, depression, gender-affirmation, LGBTQ+, grief, chronic pain, or life transitions? Adults with these traits may struggle with work, relationships, and family. I offer medication management and/or counseling. I am kink, poly, and HAES friendly. I come from a wholistic lens often including nutrition (additive), sleep care, and joyful movement. From a social justice lens, I focus on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness-Based-CBT, and Nature-Based Walk and Talk Therapy.
Greetings! Are you looking for support towards the life you really want? Are you looking to work with a medical provider who can help you manage anxiety, depression, gender-affirmation, LGBTQ+, grief, chronic pain, or life transitions? Adults with these traits may struggle with work, relationships, and family. I offer medication management and/or counseling. I am kink, poly, and HAES friendly. I come from a wholistic lens often including nutrition (additive), sleep care, and joyful movement. From a social justice lens, I focus on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness-Based-CBT, and Nature-Based Walk and Talk Therapy.
(206) 372-6191 View (206) 372-6191
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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.