Photo of Kimberly Cena, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clinton County, MI
Kimberly Cena
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Saint Johns, MI 48879
Caya Counseling serves adults and children with a wide range of concerns including, PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, trauma, stress, grief/loss, infant mental health issues, attachment work, and post adoption.
Everyone deserves a sense of control over their lives. When terrible things happen it can feel like the wind has been knocked out of you. The world feels unsafe. Feelings of deep sadness, fear, shame and a rawness seem to linger. Many people feel as though they are damaged goods and wonder if they will ever be themselves again, or if they will ever be happy again. Imagine what it will be like when you have more good days then bad, when you feel the laughter, when you hear your child start to sing again. In a relaxed, safe environment you will receive support, encouragement, and the skills you need to thrive not just survive.
Caya Counseling serves adults and children with a wide range of concerns including, PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, trauma, stress, grief/loss, infant mental health issues, attachment work, and post adoption.
Everyone deserves a sense of control over their lives. When terrible things happen it can feel like the wind has been knocked out of you. The world feels unsafe. Feelings of deep sadness, fear, shame and a rawness seem to linger. Many people feel as though they are damaged goods and wonder if they will ever be themselves again, or if they will ever be happy again. Imagine what it will be like when you have more good days then bad, when you feel the laughter, when you hear your child start to sing again. In a relaxed, safe environment you will receive support, encouragement, and the skills you need to thrive not just survive.
(517) 201-2834 View (517) 201-2834
Photo of Rosie Spagnuolo Bickert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clinton County, MI
Rosie Spagnuolo Bickert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, EGCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dewitt, MI 48820
Not accepting new clients
Not accepting new clients: I gravitate to "working outside the box" with individuals, groups, couples, and families whose lives have been negatively impacted by trauma. I have focused on women and men who were physically, emotionally or sexually abused as children or individuals traumatized as adults. Treating veterans and/or active duty military personnel who have served in war zones is of special interest to me. I have seen first hand the difficulty so many of them have reintegrating into their families and into civilian life. I find a tremendous amount of fulfillment and joy walking with them on their journey back into life.
Not accepting new clients: I gravitate to "working outside the box" with individuals, groups, couples, and families whose lives have been negatively impacted by trauma. I have focused on women and men who were physically, emotionally or sexually abused as children or individuals traumatized as adults. Treating veterans and/or active duty military personnel who have served in war zones is of special interest to me. I have seen first hand the difficulty so many of them have reintegrating into their families and into civilian life. I find a tremendous amount of fulfillment and joy walking with them on their journey back into life.
(517) 459-7199 View (517) 459-7199
Photo of Rebecca S Noffke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clinton County, MI
Rebecca S Noffke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dewitt, MI 48820
Not accepting new clients
Finding good support can be tricky. When others don't understand, it is hard for us to feel validated. I've been there and I understand. I can help you take back your positivity, independence, power, and self-compassion so you can start validating yourself. Through coping, self care, mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and behavior management techniques (etc.) we can discover who you really are, identify how you got there, and apply the compassion you need to heal. All this with a bit of humor to lighten your day.
Finding good support can be tricky. When others don't understand, it is hard for us to feel validated. I've been there and I understand. I can help you take back your positivity, independence, power, and self-compassion so you can start validating yourself. Through coping, self care, mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and behavior management techniques (etc.) we can discover who you really are, identify how you got there, and apply the compassion you need to heal. All this with a bit of humor to lighten your day.
(517) 225-1704 View (517) 225-1704

Online Therapists

Photo of Telicia Patrick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clinton County, MI
Telicia Patrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Lansing, MI 48823
I invite clients from all walks of life and have particular interest in grief related work, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
When asked “What is my ideal client”? My response will always be you! I have an innate passion for people and feel that one’s healing journey should be customized to suit their individual need(s). I take a strength-based person-centered approach to help each client begin to identify/build upon their abilities to overcome obstacles at every stage of life. Upon working together, we will focus on healing holistically, integrating techniques suited for the whole person aligning spirit, mind, body, soul, and goals.
I invite clients from all walks of life and have particular interest in grief related work, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
When asked “What is my ideal client”? My response will always be you! I have an innate passion for people and feel that one’s healing journey should be customized to suit their individual need(s). I take a strength-based person-centered approach to help each client begin to identify/build upon their abilities to overcome obstacles at every stage of life. Upon working together, we will focus on healing holistically, integrating techniques suited for the whole person aligning spirit, mind, body, soul, and goals.
(517) 245-1590 View (517) 245-1590
Photo of Rochester Area Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clinton County, MI
Rochester Area Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CAADC, CCS-M, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
We see clients ages 7 through adulthood on a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, trauma, grief and loss, school difficulties, career counseling and many others.
Making the decision to schedule an appointment with a counselor takes a great deal of courage. Our therapists recognize that and work hard to make sure that you feel comfortable from the moment you walk in the door. Understanding that individuals have different schedules in their lives, we provide a variety of options in the morning, afternoon, evening, or weekends depending on your needs. Give yourself the gift of self-care and give us a call.
We see clients ages 7 through adulthood on a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, trauma, grief and loss, school difficulties, career counseling and many others.
Making the decision to schedule an appointment with a counselor takes a great deal of courage. Our therapists recognize that and work hard to make sure that you feel comfortable from the moment you walk in the door. Understanding that individuals have different schedules in their lives, we provide a variety of options in the morning, afternoon, evening, or weekends depending on your needs. Give yourself the gift of self-care and give us a call.
(248) 826-2637 View (248) 826-2637
Photo of Great Lakes Perinatal Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clinton County, MI
Great Lakes Perinatal Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
I see therapy as a gateway to strengthening our authentic self through healing, learning, acceptance and growth. It is often through our self-proclaimed imperfections that we find the greatest gifts, insights and points of focus that help us understand and become clear about the path we are walking and the possibilities that are before us. We have all known suffering, loss, trauma and despair. These experiences may shape us but they do not have to define us.
I see therapy as a gateway to strengthening our authentic self through healing, learning, acceptance and growth. It is often through our self-proclaimed imperfections that we find the greatest gifts, insights and points of focus that help us understand and become clear about the path we are walking and the possibilities that are before us. We have all known suffering, loss, trauma and despair. These experiences may shape us but they do not have to define us.
(773) 974-6695 View (773) 974-6695
Photo of Elizabeth Sawyer Danowski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clinton County, MI
Elizabeth Sawyer Danowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
East Lansing, MI 48823
I work with ADHD (kids and adults), Grief and Loss, Divorce, Blending Families, Parenting, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/PTSD, School Related Issues, Self-Esteem and Social Skills Building.
Are you frustrated with the chaos, but don't know how to change it? Does your child need help? Is your family stuck in a rut? Are your kids hurting inside or struggling with life's challenges? I offer specialized therapy services to children and families, combining traditional talk therapy with the latest developments in play therapy. Because play is one of the fundamental building blocks of all communication; it works, even with very young children.
I work with ADHD (kids and adults), Grief and Loss, Divorce, Blending Families, Parenting, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/PTSD, School Related Issues, Self-Esteem and Social Skills Building.
Are you frustrated with the chaos, but don't know how to change it? Does your child need help? Is your family stuck in a rut? Are your kids hurting inside or struggling with life's challenges? I offer specialized therapy services to children and families, combining traditional talk therapy with the latest developments in play therapy. Because play is one of the fundamental building blocks of all communication; it works, even with very young children.
(517) 618-9187 View (517) 618-9187
Photo of Alicia Watt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clinton County, MI
Alicia Watt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48346
My goal is to help you work through challenges in your life by encouraging you to explore and discuss these concerns. We will develop goals to work towards change in this process. I work with adults, children, families, and couples. We can process a range of problems including career struggles, depression, anxiety, grief, ineffective coping skills, and relationship problems to name a few.
My goal is to help you work through challenges in your life by encouraging you to explore and discuss these concerns. We will develop goals to work towards change in this process. I work with adults, children, families, and couples. We can process a range of problems including career struggles, depression, anxiety, grief, ineffective coping skills, and relationship problems to name a few.
(248) 487-1488 View (248) 487-1488
Photo of Megan Flier, Counselor in Clinton County, MI
Megan Flier
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Most of the people who work with me range from adolescents to adults and generally experience depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, have a history of suicide, trauma, and/or general trouble adjusting to changes in life. However, I also have experience working with grief and loss, family adjustment to autism diagnosis, general family concerns, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors. I am trained in S.A.F.E. EMDR, integrative medicine for mental health, CBT, and TF-CBT. I have additional knowledge of sand tray, IFS, narrative therapy, and interpersonal neurobiology and draw on these in my therapy.
Most of the people who work with me range from adolescents to adults and generally experience depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, have a history of suicide, trauma, and/or general trouble adjusting to changes in life. However, I also have experience working with grief and loss, family adjustment to autism diagnosis, general family concerns, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors. I am trained in S.A.F.E. EMDR, integrative medicine for mental health, CBT, and TF-CBT. I have additional knowledge of sand tray, IFS, narrative therapy, and interpersonal neurobiology and draw on these in my therapy.
(616) 344-9018 View (616) 344-9018
Photo of Janice Kizy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clinton County, MI
Janice Kizy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a Wayne State graduate with a Master's degree in Social Work and a Major in Family & Couples concerns. I have several years of child welfare experience and have been working with children and adults as a therapist for over 10 years. I've worked in school settings and have been trained in the areas of grief, loss, trauma and crisis intervention. In addition to my passion for working with children and families, I'm successful in building positive therapeutic relationships with adult clients.
I am a Wayne State graduate with a Master's degree in Social Work and a Major in Family & Couples concerns. I have several years of child welfare experience and have been working with children and adults as a therapist for over 10 years. I've worked in school settings and have been trained in the areas of grief, loss, trauma and crisis intervention. In addition to my passion for working with children and families, I'm successful in building positive therapeutic relationships with adult clients.
(586) 315-2060 View (586) 315-2060
Photo of International Therapy Solutions, PLLC in Clinton County, MI
International Therapy Solutions, PLLC
LMSW
Verified Verified
Warren, MI 48093
We specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT); DBT; psychodynamic; interpersonal; EMDR and grief interventions.
Our founder was selected prestigiously as a University of Michigan field faculty instructor. We are a Mental Health Therapy office. Our founder has a Master's Degree from the number one school in clinical social work in the United States of America; the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor and was clinically trained as a social worker psychotherapist by the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Michigan Health System, where she also conducted research on a variety of mental health issues and continue to work with communities and groups of diverse backgrounds.
We specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT); DBT; psychodynamic; interpersonal; EMDR and grief interventions.
Our founder was selected prestigiously as a University of Michigan field faculty instructor. We are a Mental Health Therapy office. Our founder has a Master's Degree from the number one school in clinical social work in the United States of America; the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor and was clinically trained as a social worker psychotherapist by the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Michigan Health System, where she also conducted research on a variety of mental health issues and continue to work with communities and groups of diverse backgrounds.
(586) 685-7786 View (586) 685-7786
Photo of Sylvia Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clinton County, MI
Sylvia Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CTP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Your experiences may be bringing up new feelings, thoughts, and experiences, or may be bringing up old ones. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where we can explore your feelings and experiences to gain self-awareness, understanding, and discover how to get back to the life you love. I am extremely passionate about helping others get to the root of their current behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. My specialty is in processing trauma, complex trauma, and secondary trauma. I also am experienced in treating other difficulties such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationships difficulties, and grief.
Your experiences may be bringing up new feelings, thoughts, and experiences, or may be bringing up old ones. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where we can explore your feelings and experiences to gain self-awareness, understanding, and discover how to get back to the life you love. I am extremely passionate about helping others get to the root of their current behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. My specialty is in processing trauma, complex trauma, and secondary trauma. I also am experienced in treating other difficulties such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationships difficulties, and grief.
(248) 923-4375 View (248) 923-4375
Photo of Gentle Healing Counseling Carrie Quisenberry , Counselor in Clinton County, MI
Gentle Healing Counseling Carrie Quisenberry
Counselor, MA, LPC, SCL
Verified Verified
Okemos, MI 48864  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with increased emotional or physical difficulties due to the impact of isolation, covid 19, life transitions? Are you feeling increased Depression and Anxiety? Are you struggling with relationship issues? Has someone you love died or is in the process of dying? Are you struggling with other issues of grief or loss? Do you have medical issues that are impacting your emotional well being? Maybe you are needing help managing responses to past or current trauma? I am here for you. I will listen, support and encourage you. We will explore the difficult issues and create your unique healing plan together.
Are you struggling with increased emotional or physical difficulties due to the impact of isolation, covid 19, life transitions? Are you feeling increased Depression and Anxiety? Are you struggling with relationship issues? Has someone you love died or is in the process of dying? Are you struggling with other issues of grief or loss? Do you have medical issues that are impacting your emotional well being? Maybe you are needing help managing responses to past or current trauma? I am here for you. I will listen, support and encourage you. We will explore the difficult issues and create your unique healing plan together.
(517) 992-5422 View (517) 992-5422
Photo of Keri Warren, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clinton County, MI
Keri Warren
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, DMin, LMFT, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion for individuals, couples and families who are experiencing the darkness of grief, the heartache of broken relationships, the discomfort and uncertainty that promotes overwhelming fear and anxiety; the trials of family life and the stress of difficult careers. I integrate my deep faith and trust in God's provision to help guide my work with my clients or for those whom I am supervising. My greatest desire is for you, my client, to know your great value and worth as you grow deeper in the own knowledge and wisdom of your calling and purpose in life. I invite you to learn more about me at my website: KareCounseling.com
I have a passion for individuals, couples and families who are experiencing the darkness of grief, the heartache of broken relationships, the discomfort and uncertainty that promotes overwhelming fear and anxiety; the trials of family life and the stress of difficult careers. I integrate my deep faith and trust in God's provision to help guide my work with my clients or for those whom I am supervising. My greatest desire is for you, my client, to know your great value and worth as you grow deeper in the own knowledge and wisdom of your calling and purpose in life. I invite you to learn more about me at my website: KareCounseling.com
(734) 838-4716 View (734) 838-4716
Photo of Melissa Beach, Marriage & Family Therapist in Clinton County, MI
Melissa Beach
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
You are seeking to become the best version of yourself that is in true alignment with your inner being. You may be struggling with: anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationship and or, couples concerns, grief and loss, and low self-esteem. You yearn to deepen the understanding of yourself and the relationships you keep or have let go of. Life offers stages of change, loss and transformation, and we often find ourselves surrendering to merely being. You may get caught up in the day to day tasks and easily forget to take time to pause and reflect on what is really happening on the inside.
You are seeking to become the best version of yourself that is in true alignment with your inner being. You may be struggling with: anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationship and or, couples concerns, grief and loss, and low self-esteem. You yearn to deepen the understanding of yourself and the relationships you keep or have let go of. Life offers stages of change, loss and transformation, and we often find ourselves surrendering to merely being. You may get caught up in the day to day tasks and easily forget to take time to pause and reflect on what is really happening on the inside.
(805) 424-5740 View (805) 424-5740
Photo of Amber Joy Norwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clinton County, MI
Amber Joy Norwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jackson, MI 49203
Amber is also pursuing a certification as a Trauma Specialist through The National Institute of Trauma and Loss in Children.
Amber Norwood, LMSW-C has a broad range of clinical experiences including the areas of domestic violence, substance abuse, mental health, trauma, parenting and relational struggles. She has completed internships at Vera House, Inc and Family Services and Children's Aid. She has been an affiliate professor of Social Work at Spring Arbor University since 2010. She has work experiences at AWARE, Inc as the Child and Family Advocate, at Highfields, Inc. as a Home-based therapist/Outreach counselor, and at A Healing Place, LLC. She currently owns and operates Waves of Change, LLC, a private practice in Jackson, MI.
Amber is also pursuing a certification as a Trauma Specialist through The National Institute of Trauma and Loss in Children.
Amber Norwood, LMSW-C has a broad range of clinical experiences including the areas of domestic violence, substance abuse, mental health, trauma, parenting and relational struggles. She has completed internships at Vera House, Inc and Family Services and Children's Aid. She has been an affiliate professor of Social Work at Spring Arbor University since 2010. She has work experiences at AWARE, Inc as the Child and Family Advocate, at Highfields, Inc. as a Home-based therapist/Outreach counselor, and at A Healing Place, LLC. She currently owns and operates Waves of Change, LLC, a private practice in Jackson, MI.
(517) 615-1433 View (517) 615-1433
Photo of Lori McMahon, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Clinton County, MI
Lori McMahon
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAC, CSAT, CSPT
Verified Verified
Munith, MI 49259
We work with addiction, grief, suicide prevention, family issues, bulling, self-esteem, self-harm, depression, anxiety .
Wade's Hope is a place people can talk, be heard, and not judge. I also work with families, adults, adolescents, and children. I use many different therapy theories, such as Narrative, and CBT(cognitive behavioral therapy). I am a spiritual center if the client wants that type of therapy.
We work with addiction, grief, suicide prevention, family issues, bulling, self-esteem, self-harm, depression, anxiety .
Wade's Hope is a place people can talk, be heard, and not judge. I also work with families, adults, adolescents, and children. I use many different therapy theories, such as Narrative, and CBT(cognitive behavioral therapy). I am a spiritual center if the client wants that type of therapy.
(303) 647-6404 View (303) 647-6404
Photo of Pathlight Counseling Pllc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clinton County, MI
Pathlight Counseling Pllc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Howell, MI 48843  (Online Only)
Services include: Parent coaching; individual therapy for children 10+; therapy with adults for parenting, grief, & stress management; counseling for wives with spouses on the spectrum; college application and career counseling packages for teens.
Each family is unique, but some have exceptional needs. As a mom of kids with special issues, and having worked in special education for decades, I understand the needs of exceptional families. I love working with children on grief, anxiety, self-esteem, social skills, etc; parents struggling with their child's diagnosis will appreciate my understanding and ability to provide concrete steps to improve coping. Recently, I have obtained my certificate in Independent Educational Consulting and have immersed myself in the world of college admissions, & provide college counseling for teens, including those with disabilities.
Services include: Parent coaching; individual therapy for children 10+; therapy with adults for parenting, grief, & stress management; counseling for wives with spouses on the spectrum; college application and career counseling packages for teens.
Each family is unique, but some have exceptional needs. As a mom of kids with special issues, and having worked in special education for decades, I understand the needs of exceptional families. I love working with children on grief, anxiety, self-esteem, social skills, etc; parents struggling with their child's diagnosis will appreciate my understanding and ability to provide concrete steps to improve coping. Recently, I have obtained my certificate in Independent Educational Consulting and have immersed myself in the world of college admissions, & provide college counseling for teens, including those with disabilities.
(425) 243-6768 View (425) 243-6768
Photo of Nancy Gorelick, Counselor in Clinton County, MI
Nancy Gorelick
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48348
I often work with individuals, couples, and families, helping them achieve their personal goals. Many issues addressed in therapy include managing and reducing Depression, Bi-polar and Mood disorders and their symptomology. Anxiety disorders; OCD, Panic disorders, Phobias. Identifying triggers and strategies to help the individual lessen symptomology and increase coping skills are essential. I also assist individuals coping with ADHD, self esteem issues, learning healthy life skills, utilizing effective problem solving skills, and developing relaxation skills. I also work with induvials coping with situational events, and loss.
I often work with individuals, couples, and families, helping them achieve their personal goals. Many issues addressed in therapy include managing and reducing Depression, Bi-polar and Mood disorders and their symptomology. Anxiety disorders; OCD, Panic disorders, Phobias. Identifying triggers and strategies to help the individual lessen symptomology and increase coping skills are essential. I also assist individuals coping with ADHD, self esteem issues, learning healthy life skills, utilizing effective problem solving skills, and developing relaxation skills. I also work with induvials coping with situational events, and loss.
(248) 731-4553 View (248) 731-4553
Photo of Erica L Springer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clinton County, MI
Erica L Springer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD,LMSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Saginaw, MI 48601  (Online Only)
IMPACCTT Enterprises, PLLC is “Challenging and Changing Thoughts...Healing Hearts...and Restoring Lives”. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional I am a Therapist trained in creative therapy toward supporting children, youth, and adults with trauma histories, grief, and loss. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety, and Depression are substantial focus areas. I use trauma informed cognitive behavioral, mindfulness therapies, and educational activities. I am trained in play therapy. Video sessions (telehealth) are available. I am a published Author. I am available to provide clinical supervision to LLMSW’s.
IMPACCTT Enterprises, PLLC is “Challenging and Changing Thoughts...Healing Hearts...and Restoring Lives”. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional I am a Therapist trained in creative therapy toward supporting children, youth, and adults with trauma histories, grief, and loss. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety, and Depression are substantial focus areas. I use trauma informed cognitive behavioral, mindfulness therapies, and educational activities. I am trained in play therapy. Video sessions (telehealth) are available. I am a published Author. I am available to provide clinical supervision to LLMSW’s.
(989) 308-4397 View (989) 308-4397

See more therapy options for Clinton 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.