Photo of Colleen Lee, Mental Health Counselor in Whatcom County, WA
Colleen Lee
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lynden, WA 98264
I have helped clients with co-dependency issues, anger, depression, anxiety, PTSD, divorce recovery and grief.
My role as a therapist is to listen, diagnose, and present coping skills and therapeutic techniques. You will be asked to apply these skills to the best of your ability, giving you hope for an improved quality of life. The therapy model I use is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). You will be encouraged to take an active part in your treatment plan. Honesty, trust, patience, and committment are the basics for building a therapeutic relationship with positive results. I will provide a referral counselor for you, if I do not have the expertise for your particular issue.
I have helped clients with co-dependency issues, anger, depression, anxiety, PTSD, divorce recovery and grief.
My role as a therapist is to listen, diagnose, and present coping skills and therapeutic techniques. You will be asked to apply these skills to the best of your ability, giving you hope for an improved quality of life. The therapy model I use is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). You will be encouraged to take an active part in your treatment plan. Honesty, trust, patience, and committment are the basics for building a therapeutic relationship with positive results. I will provide a referral counselor for you, if I do not have the expertise for your particular issue.
(360) 523-7068 View (360) 523-7068
Photo of Caitlin Connolly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Whatcom County, WA
Caitlin Connolly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
My approach to therapy draws upon over 20 years of experience with clients of all ages & backgrounds in chemical dependency, crisis intervention, grief & loss, trauma / PTSD & mood disorders.
As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) my belief is that each one of us is the expert of our own lives and thus has the tools to develop a more sustainable transformation grounded in compassion and self love. Through curiosity and presence of mind, body and spirit we have the ability to rewrite our own stories. I am committed to meeting you where you are at through a client centered and non judgmental approach while offering support and encouragement through your individual journey.~ "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you"- Maya Angelou
My approach to therapy draws upon over 20 years of experience with clients of all ages & backgrounds in chemical dependency, crisis intervention, grief & loss, trauma / PTSD & mood disorders.
As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) my belief is that each one of us is the expert of our own lives and thus has the tools to develop a more sustainable transformation grounded in compassion and self love. Through curiosity and presence of mind, body and spirit we have the ability to rewrite our own stories. I am committed to meeting you where you are at through a client centered and non judgmental approach while offering support and encouragement through your individual journey.~ "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you"- Maya Angelou
(518) 241-5812 View (518) 241-5812
Photo of Suzy Thompson, Counselor in Whatcom County, WA
Suzy Thompson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, WA 98248
I have experience in helping those facing relationship distress, grief, depression, anxiety, abuse, trauma, and life transitions.
I believe that we are all made for relationship with one another. Relationships are where we learn about love, comfort, hope, courage, joy, and empathy. They are also where we unfortunately learn about betrayal, fear, rejection, abandonment, abuse, and pain. These experiences and connections with others shape us into who we are. They are also the place where real change and healing can happen. I hope to come alongside you as an empathetic and trustworthy listener to help you make sense of unhealthy patterns that have kept you stuck and to provide real hope, growth, and change in the context of healthy relationship.
I have experience in helping those facing relationship distress, grief, depression, anxiety, abuse, trauma, and life transitions.
I believe that we are all made for relationship with one another. Relationships are where we learn about love, comfort, hope, courage, joy, and empathy. They are also where we unfortunately learn about betrayal, fear, rejection, abandonment, abuse, and pain. These experiences and connections with others shape us into who we are. They are also the place where real change and healing can happen. I hope to come alongside you as an empathetic and trustworthy listener to help you make sense of unhealthy patterns that have kept you stuck and to provide real hope, growth, and change in the context of healthy relationship.
(360) 234-3267 View (360) 234-3267
Photo of Brian McClincey, Counselor in Whatcom County, WA
Brian McClincey
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98226
Thanks for taking a look at my profile page. It takes a great deal of courage to ask for help and support. Many of my clients have struggled with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, struggling to go out into the world, wanting things to be different in their families, and much more. I will work with you to develop new skills to handle any situation that is bothering you.
Thanks for taking a look at my profile page. It takes a great deal of courage to ask for help and support. Many of my clients have struggled with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, struggling to go out into the world, wanting things to be different in their families, and much more. I will work with you to develop new skills to handle any situation that is bothering you.
(360) 526-0231 View (360) 526-0231
Photo of Sonia Rae Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Whatcom County, WA
Sonia Rae Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Good For You! You have taken the first step: You are asking for help at a time when life challenges have caused you to pause and reflect. Life can feel out of balance, leaving us with feelings of despair, anxiousness and loss. Our basic human needs are those of connecting to others. We feel pain and discomfort when we feel separated. It takes courage to look at ourselves, to find the meaning of the discomfort. This struggle can have profound lasting results for personal growth, better health, and closer relationships with our family, friends and the community at large.
Good For You! You have taken the first step: You are asking for help at a time when life challenges have caused you to pause and reflect. Life can feel out of balance, leaving us with feelings of despair, anxiousness and loss. Our basic human needs are those of connecting to others. We feel pain and discomfort when we feel separated. It takes courage to look at ourselves, to find the meaning of the discomfort. This struggle can have profound lasting results for personal growth, better health, and closer relationships with our family, friends and the community at large.
(360) 979-1917 View (360) 979-1917
Photo of David Goldman, Counselor in Whatcom County, WA
David Goldman
Counselor, MS CMHC, MAEd, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
David supports individuals and groups during changes such as loss, career shifts, traumatic divorce, criminal/legal, (in)justice, parenting, co-parenting, reunification, stepparenting, adoption, aging, heartbreak, as well as partnering and marriage.
David works with clients to understand challenges, to develop specific goals, and to promote wellness using a variety of tools from therapeutic modalities including empathetic Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). David draws from experience working with individuals and families as an educator, birth doula, Guardian ad Litem, mediator, and counselor. David is also approved by WA State to complete DVIT Domestic Violence Assessments and Treatment.
David supports individuals and groups during changes such as loss, career shifts, traumatic divorce, criminal/legal, (in)justice, parenting, co-parenting, reunification, stepparenting, adoption, aging, heartbreak, as well as partnering and marriage.
David works with clients to understand challenges, to develop specific goals, and to promote wellness using a variety of tools from therapeutic modalities including empathetic Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). David draws from experience working with individuals and families as an educator, birth doula, Guardian ad Litem, mediator, and counselor. David is also approved by WA State to complete DVIT Domestic Violence Assessments and Treatment.
(360) 774-4078 View (360) 774-4078
Photo of Melody Goddard (Rhode), Psychologist in Whatcom County, WA
Melody Goddard (Rhode)
Psychologist, PhD, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Dr. Melody Rhode is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Professional Consultant, and Life Coach. She works with individuals, couples, family systems, and leaders in business and public life. She employs interpersonal outcome-oriented strategic therapy to facilitate relational change and personal growth. Her practice is private, and oriented to a clientele typically reluctant to seek psychological help. Concentrating on relatively capable individuals, couples, and family members, Dr. Rhode works with transitions, midlife choices, entitlement vocational re-direction, unexpected trauma, and unprocessed grief. She has unique expertise in treating personality disorders (narcissism), and integrating psychology and spiritual wisdom towards changes that heal.
Dr. Melody Rhode is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Professional Consultant, and Life Coach. She works with individuals, couples, family systems, and leaders in business and public life. She employs interpersonal outcome-oriented strategic therapy to facilitate relational change and personal growth. Her practice is private, and oriented to a clientele typically reluctant to seek psychological help. Concentrating on relatively capable individuals, couples, and family members, Dr. Rhode works with transitions, midlife choices, entitlement vocational re-direction, unexpected trauma, and unprocessed grief. She has unique expertise in treating personality disorders (narcissism), and integrating psychology and spiritual wisdom towards changes that heal.
(360) 524-6013 View (360) 524-6013
Photo of Tim Raymond, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Whatcom County, WA
Tim Raymond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98226  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, grief and loss, and relationship issues.
Now accepting new patients! My practice includes working with individuals, couples, and families. For individual therapy, I see adolescents age 13 and up as well as adults. Are you looking to improve relationships or gain better insight into your behaviors? Would you like to improve your resiliency and overall happiness? I offer a judgement-free and collaborative space where we can tackle the challenges you face together. I work to address the whole person by first focusing on fundamental needs, before progressing to higher-level needs like love, belonging, and self-esteem.
My areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, grief and loss, and relationship issues.
Now accepting new patients! My practice includes working with individuals, couples, and families. For individual therapy, I see adolescents age 13 and up as well as adults. Are you looking to improve relationships or gain better insight into your behaviors? Would you like to improve your resiliency and overall happiness? I offer a judgement-free and collaborative space where we can tackle the challenges you face together. I work to address the whole person by first focusing on fundamental needs, before progressing to higher-level needs like love, belonging, and self-esteem.
(360) 223-6031 View (360) 223-6031
Photo of Aaron Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Whatcom County, WA
Aaron Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98226
I specialize in working with children and teens ages 2-18 for defiance, trauma, anxiety, depression, low self esteem, child abuse, grief and loss and life adjustments. I provide highly effective research based counseling in a warm and inviting environment. I offer practical strategies and activities to help children, teens and families meet their goals and improve their lives. Modalities used include Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Triple P Parenting, Play Therapy, and Therapeutic Art Activities.
I specialize in working with children and teens ages 2-18 for defiance, trauma, anxiety, depression, low self esteem, child abuse, grief and loss and life adjustments. I provide highly effective research based counseling in a warm and inviting environment. I offer practical strategies and activities to help children, teens and families meet their goals and improve their lives. Modalities used include Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Triple P Parenting, Play Therapy, and Therapeutic Art Activities.
(360) 800-2258 View (360) 800-2258
Photo of Daniel Masler, Psychologist in Whatcom County, WA
Daniel Masler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98226  (Online Only)
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, work issues, Autism, ADHD, grief, and bereavement.
I am passionate about helping people make sense of their lives in complicated times. I am an actively involved psychotherapist. I believe in developing a strongly collaborative relationship. With mutual curiosity, we can explore meaningful ways to find relief and make lasting, positive changes. I do psychotherapy with children, teens, families, and adults in English, Spanish, French, Italian, and in Japanese. I also do psychological evaluations for Attention Deficit Disorder.
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, work issues, Autism, ADHD, grief, and bereavement.
I am passionate about helping people make sense of their lives in complicated times. I am an actively involved psychotherapist. I believe in developing a strongly collaborative relationship. With mutual curiosity, we can explore meaningful ways to find relief and make lasting, positive changes. I do psychotherapy with children, teens, families, and adults in English, Spanish, French, Italian, and in Japanese. I also do psychological evaluations for Attention Deficit Disorder.
(206) 460-1404 View (206) 460-1404
Photo of Veronica, EMDR, Hypnotherapist, Supervision, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Whatcom County, WA
Veronica, EMDR, Hypnotherapist, Supervision
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225  (Online Only)
I am an eclectic healer working from an empowerment model to help you overcome patterns and behaviors not serving you anymore in your current life: anxiety, complex trauma, anger, relationship issues, grief, and depression.
Our subconscious mind holds the memories and perceptions of every experience from childhood to adulthood. As we continue our journey, the unresolved past continues to affect our bodies negatively and influence our thoughts, behaviors, and everyday life on an unconscious level. We may not understand why we feel or react as we do to certain situations or why the same patterns show up every time and unexplained symptoms and circumstances keep repeating themselves. Often this prevents us from moving forward with our lives, achieving clarity and authenticity.
I am an eclectic healer working from an empowerment model to help you overcome patterns and behaviors not serving you anymore in your current life: anxiety, complex trauma, anger, relationship issues, grief, and depression.
Our subconscious mind holds the memories and perceptions of every experience from childhood to adulthood. As we continue our journey, the unresolved past continues to affect our bodies negatively and influence our thoughts, behaviors, and everyday life on an unconscious level. We may not understand why we feel or react as we do to certain situations or why the same patterns show up every time and unexplained symptoms and circumstances keep repeating themselves. Often this prevents us from moving forward with our lives, achieving clarity and authenticity.
(360) 997-2723 View (360) 997-2723
Photo of Dr. Isabel E. Kaufman Forensic Expert/Therapist, Counselor in Whatcom County, WA
Dr. Isabel E. Kaufman Forensic Expert/Therapist
Counselor, DR, LMHCC, CFC, Forensi, Expert
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98229
Through Life Stages: offers an array of services including but not limited to individual, children, couples and group counseling, crisis intervention, grief and loss therapy and conflict resolution. Dr Kaufman uses state of the art Mental Health Assessments. The Assessment includes a comprehensive social history, referral information, diagnostic impression, significant findings, and recommendations for treatment. A thorough Mental Health Evaluation like this is the best way to help yourself, your child, and your family. As a Professional Counselor Isabel E. Kaufman is experienced, knowledgeable and able to help!
Through Life Stages: offers an array of services including but not limited to individual, children, couples and group counseling, crisis intervention, grief and loss therapy and conflict resolution. Dr Kaufman uses state of the art Mental Health Assessments. The Assessment includes a comprehensive social history, referral information, diagnostic impression, significant findings, and recommendations for treatment. A thorough Mental Health Evaluation like this is the best way to help yourself, your child, and your family. As a Professional Counselor Isabel E. Kaufman is experienced, knowledgeable and able to help!
(360) 927-1980 View (360) 927-1980
Photo of Kelly R Frost, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Whatcom County, WA
Kelly R Frost
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LMHCA, SUDP, DVIC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
I specialize in working with clients that try to manage life's pain with substances and other addictions. Many of my clients want to simply change their using habits and I work to support them weekly in understanding their intentions, feelings and motivations as they make healthy changes to their relationship with alcohol or other drugs. As we well know, many clients suffering from substance use disorders have a myriad of other issues that drive these compulsive coping mechanisms; I am experienced in many co-occuring issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma or grief. Supervisor: T. Christopher Portman PhD.
I specialize in working with clients that try to manage life's pain with substances and other addictions. Many of my clients want to simply change their using habits and I work to support them weekly in understanding their intentions, feelings and motivations as they make healthy changes to their relationship with alcohol or other drugs. As we well know, many clients suffering from substance use disorders have a myriad of other issues that drive these compulsive coping mechanisms; I am experienced in many co-occuring issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma or grief. Supervisor: T. Christopher Portman PhD.
(360) 227-4939 View (360) 227-4939
Photo of Yuanita Gitamara, Counselor in Whatcom County, WA
Yuanita Gitamara
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lynden, WA 98264
We are all on a journey. As we face the hills and valleys of life, we need the support of others to walk alongside us to encourage and to navigate our paths. I have experience working with individuals and families experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, parent-child interaction issues, grief, anger, relationship issues, family concerns, school issues and other mental health concerns. I am committed to providing professional, holistic, evidence-based, and compassionate mental health support. I view the counseling process as a collaboration process between me and the clients.
We are all on a journey. As we face the hills and valleys of life, we need the support of others to walk alongside us to encourage and to navigate our paths. I have experience working with individuals and families experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, parent-child interaction issues, grief, anger, relationship issues, family concerns, school issues and other mental health concerns. I am committed to providing professional, holistic, evidence-based, and compassionate mental health support. I view the counseling process as a collaboration process between me and the clients.
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Photo of Vermeda Fred, Marriage & Family Therapist in Whatcom County, WA
Vermeda Fred
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MFA
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
My clients present adjustment issues, anxiety & depression, eating disorders, marital problems, postpartum depression in moms and/or dads as they adjust to new babies, LGBTQI issues, grief & loss, lethargy (fibromyalgia or auto-immune disorders), or just a loss of meaning and direction.
Whenever you think of talking with someone, thoroughly explaining everything from how you feel today, or how you have felt for years, or to the choices you are facing, or how your body and sense of yourself alters things, and you wonder, how do I find that "right" person to talk to? You have found them. Adolescent or adult, individual or a couple, call me for a free consultation, and let's see where to go from here!
My clients present adjustment issues, anxiety & depression, eating disorders, marital problems, postpartum depression in moms and/or dads as they adjust to new babies, LGBTQI issues, grief & loss, lethargy (fibromyalgia or auto-immune disorders), or just a loss of meaning and direction.
Whenever you think of talking with someone, thoroughly explaining everything from how you feel today, or how you have felt for years, or to the choices you are facing, or how your body and sense of yourself alters things, and you wonder, how do I find that "right" person to talk to? You have found them. Adolescent or adult, individual or a couple, call me for a free consultation, and let's see where to go from here!
(360) 800-4531 View (360) 800-4531
Photo of Real Solutions Therapy, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Whatcom County, WA
Real Solutions Therapy, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
We have therapists available now. The difficulties of daily life, relationship concerns, experiences with depression, anxiety, anger, ocd or grief have you searching the internet for a therapist you can afford, that takes insurance, that has in person and virtual options. Our knowledgeable and compassionate team have morning and evening appointments available virtually, in our Des Moines and Bellingham office. With a free no commitment 15 minute call, you get to decide if you have found a match for your needs. This is what you have been looking for in your search for your therapist.
We have therapists available now. The difficulties of daily life, relationship concerns, experiences with depression, anxiety, anger, ocd or grief have you searching the internet for a therapist you can afford, that takes insurance, that has in person and virtual options. Our knowledgeable and compassionate team have morning and evening appointments available virtually, in our Des Moines and Bellingham office. With a free no commitment 15 minute call, you get to decide if you have found a match for your needs. This is what you have been looking for in your search for your therapist.
(206) 278-3087 View (206) 278-3087
Photo of Wenhui Eunice Huang, Counselor in Whatcom County, WA
Wenhui Eunice Huang
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for joy, inner peace, and healing? When you are suffering- from depression, loss, failing relationships, an unfulfilling job, anxiety, or any hardships in life- the journey can be lonely, scary, and painful. You might be asking yourself: Why am I always on edge? In these times of pain, fear, and darkness, I want to help you. There is always hope. Peace, joy and healing can be found. It would be an honor to help you find it.
Are you looking for joy, inner peace, and healing? When you are suffering- from depression, loss, failing relationships, an unfulfilling job, anxiety, or any hardships in life- the journey can be lonely, scary, and painful. You might be asking yourself: Why am I always on edge? In these times of pain, fear, and darkness, I want to help you. There is always hope. Peace, joy and healing can be found. It would be an honor to help you find it.
(509) 397-7561 View (509) 397-7561
Photo of Cassandra Perryman in Whatcom County, WA
Cassandra Perryman
PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained to work with trauma of all types and severity, anxiety, gender identity and affirmation, grief, and general life struggles.
I embrace all walks of life, and view each story as valid and important. In no way do I have a specific mold I follow, or a mold I want a client to fit in. My process is fluid and dynamic, and it is critical that I have a collaborative relationship with each person I work with.
I am trained to work with trauma of all types and severity, anxiety, gender identity and affirmation, grief, and general life struggles.
I embrace all walks of life, and view each story as valid and important. In no way do I have a specific mold I follow, or a mold I want a client to fit in. My process is fluid and dynamic, and it is critical that I have a collaborative relationship with each person I work with.
(360) 209-2364 View (360) 209-2364
Photo of Kaufmann Mental Health Services, PLLC, Counselor in Whatcom County, WA
Kaufmann Mental Health Services, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98226  (Online Only)
Welcome! Are you seeking help with stress, anxiety, grief and loss, addiction, or struggling with difficult relationships at home, at work, or with family members? Are you striving to reach your full achievement potential as a student or career professional? Have you recently assumed caregiving responsibilities? Do you have a family member or friend who struggles with addiction or mental health difficulties and you desire guidance? No matter what your purpose or dilemma, I'm so glad you're here.
Welcome! Are you seeking help with stress, anxiety, grief and loss, addiction, or struggling with difficult relationships at home, at work, or with family members? Are you striving to reach your full achievement potential as a student or career professional? Have you recently assumed caregiving responsibilities? Do you have a family member or friend who struggles with addiction or mental health difficulties and you desire guidance? No matter what your purpose or dilemma, I'm so glad you're here.
(360) 525-2667 View (360) 525-2667
Photo of Mark Bick Heart-Centered Counseling , Marriage & Family Therapist in Whatcom County, WA
Mark Bick Heart-Centered Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCHT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
April 2024 - Accepting new clients In-person and Telehealth. Hello! My name is Mark Bick and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist. I've worked exclusively with youth, teens, young adults, and adults as a counselor specializing in difficult emotions and traumas including anxiety, depression, physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, loss of motivation, feeling stuck, and a broken heart. There is hope, healing is possible, and it's time to get started with the rest of your journey into happiness. Let's begin now!
April 2024 - Accepting new clients In-person and Telehealth. Hello! My name is Mark Bick and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist. I've worked exclusively with youth, teens, young adults, and adults as a counselor specializing in difficult emotions and traumas including anxiety, depression, physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, loss of motivation, feeling stuck, and a broken heart. There is hope, healing is possible, and it's time to get started with the rest of your journey into happiness. Let's begin now!
(360) 996-6089 View (360) 996-6089

See more therapy options for Whatcom County

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.