Photo of Jo Simmons Self, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Jo Simmons Self
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, PhD, RN
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
Professionally, I facilitate a grief support group and personally, I have experienced the loss of my husband and son.
My approach to counseling is client centered because I personally believe that clients have the answers they are seeking. My role as a counselor is to guide them through the process of discovery. I believe that all of us live our lives on a healthy/unhealthy continuum. I support clients in their desire to develop healthy ways of getting their needs met and living on the positive side of the scale. My office provides a completely safe, non-threatening, and non-judgmental environment for clients to verbalize and explore their options.
Professionally, I facilitate a grief support group and personally, I have experienced the loss of my husband and son.
My approach to counseling is client centered because I personally believe that clients have the answers they are seeking. My role as a counselor is to guide them through the process of discovery. I believe that all of us live our lives on a healthy/unhealthy continuum. I support clients in their desire to develop healthy ways of getting their needs met and living on the positive side of the scale. My office provides a completely safe, non-threatening, and non-judgmental environment for clients to verbalize and explore their options.
(205) 596-6467 View (205) 596-6467
Photo of Shannon S Crenshaw, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Shannon S Crenshaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
I work with such issues as depression, chronic pain, anxiety, trauma, grief counseling, family disruptions and transitions.
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
I work with such issues as depression, chronic pain, anxiety, trauma, grief counseling, family disruptions and transitions.
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
(205) 583-0367 View (205) 583-0367
Photo of J L Austin Counseling & Consulting, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
J L Austin Counseling & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
Grief, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Anger Management, Addiction, Substance Abuse, Divorce, Domestic Violence, Self Esteem, and PTSD. Since 1997 I have worked with individuals, couples, families, groups, adults, and adolescents in gaining self awareness, peace, balance, and purpose in their life's journey.
Grief, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Anger Management, Addiction, Substance Abuse, Divorce, Domestic Violence, Self Esteem, and PTSD. Since 1997 I have worked with individuals, couples, families, groups, adults, and adolescents in gaining self awareness, peace, balance, and purpose in their life's journey.
(205) 677-0563 View (205) 677-0563
Photo of Todd D Gothard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Todd D Gothard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35216
My experience includes, but is not limited to, addiction (or unhealthy behaviors that we want to address), trauma issues, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression.
Many of us have assumed the labels others have placed upon us. I do not believe these labels can fully explain who we are or what we are experiencing. I believe through presence and compassionate curiosity we can become more mindful of ourselves and begin to experience the safety and connection we long to know. My goal is to serve as a compassionate fellow traveller, working through the obstacles that we face in life. My hope is that you will be able to remove the labels and the masks and work toward becoming the healthiest version of yourself.
My experience includes, but is not limited to, addiction (or unhealthy behaviors that we want to address), trauma issues, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression.
Many of us have assumed the labels others have placed upon us. I do not believe these labels can fully explain who we are or what we are experiencing. I believe through presence and compassionate curiosity we can become more mindful of ourselves and begin to experience the safety and connection we long to know. My goal is to serve as a compassionate fellow traveller, working through the obstacles that we face in life. My hope is that you will be able to remove the labels and the masks and work toward becoming the healthiest version of yourself.
(205) 675-0372 View (205) 675-0372
Photo of Strive Counseling Services, L.L.C. , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Birmingham, AL
Strive Counseling Services, L.L.C.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP, RPT
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35203
I specialize in working with adults that have mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, adjustment disorders, grief, stress, and psychosocial stressors.
“Building A Foundation For A Healthier You is paramount at Strive Counseling Services.” I provide the highest quality of therapeutic counseling to children and adults. I utilize evidenced-based approaches to assist clients with identifying their strengths to reach their optimal potential by developing confidence, skills for coping, and problem solving. I look forward to working with you to identify the best treatment modality to address your mental health needs. When you are ready to schedule your initial session please be prepared to provide your insurance information. “Let’s Strive Together!"
I specialize in working with adults that have mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, adjustment disorders, grief, stress, and psychosocial stressors.
“Building A Foundation For A Healthier You is paramount at Strive Counseling Services.” I provide the highest quality of therapeutic counseling to children and adults. I utilize evidenced-based approaches to assist clients with identifying their strengths to reach their optimal potential by developing confidence, skills for coping, and problem solving. I look forward to working with you to identify the best treatment modality to address your mental health needs. When you are ready to schedule your initial session please be prepared to provide your insurance information. “Let’s Strive Together!"
(205) 512-3242 View (205) 512-3242
Photo of Felicity Blunt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Felicity Blunt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals who want to overcome high stress, trauma related issues, grief and loss, depression, and attachment issues.
Would you like to have a more fulfilling life? Do you ever feel alone in your struggles? We all feel like this sometimes and could use some help finding answers. I can develop a unique treatment plan based on the specific goals you would like to accomplish. Please allow me to help you identify ways to bring more balance and peace to your life. Reaching for help is the first brave step toward wholeness. Please call, text, or email today.
I enjoy working with individuals who want to overcome high stress, trauma related issues, grief and loss, depression, and attachment issues.
Would you like to have a more fulfilling life? Do you ever feel alone in your struggles? We all feel like this sometimes and could use some help finding answers. I can develop a unique treatment plan based on the specific goals you would like to accomplish. Please allow me to help you identify ways to bring more balance and peace to your life. Reaching for help is the first brave step toward wholeness. Please call, text, or email today.
(205) 660-0511 View (205) 660-0511
Photo of Maggie Banger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Maggie Banger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
Grief Recovery Services are available through individual, group, and intensives.
I enjoy working with adults who are struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, spirituality, individuation, vocation, and addiction issues. I am passionate about helping people find fulfillment in their lives through embracing total wellness. I believe seeing worth as an individual is critical to a healthy spiritual outlook and to cultivating hope. Restore Counseling Services is birthed out of a spiritual desire for all to see hope manifested in daily life through practical application of spiritual principles. Everyone is capable of learning and applying tools to improve their quality of life.
Grief Recovery Services are available through individual, group, and intensives.
I enjoy working with adults who are struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, spirituality, individuation, vocation, and addiction issues. I am passionate about helping people find fulfillment in their lives through embracing total wellness. I believe seeing worth as an individual is critical to a healthy spiritual outlook and to cultivating hope. Restore Counseling Services is birthed out of a spiritual desire for all to see hope manifested in daily life through practical application of spiritual principles. Everyone is capable of learning and applying tools to improve their quality of life.
(205) 512-3071 View (205) 512-3071
Photo of William Olin Higgs Jr., Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
William Olin Higgs Jr.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35201
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (Alabama) with over 30 years experience as a counselor, and 25 years as a Licensed Professional Counselor. My practice includes individual therapy for depression, anxiety, grief, addictions, daily coping. I also offer family/couples counseling. My background and perspective are informed primarily by person-centered and cognitive behavioral practice. I believe in valuing each person for who they are, and helping each person identify and challenge the unhealthy and irrational thought and belief patterns that lead to emotional distress.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (Alabama) with over 30 years experience as a counselor, and 25 years as a Licensed Professional Counselor. My practice includes individual therapy for depression, anxiety, grief, addictions, daily coping. I also offer family/couples counseling. My background and perspective are informed primarily by person-centered and cognitive behavioral practice. I believe in valuing each person for who they are, and helping each person identify and challenge the unhealthy and irrational thought and belief patterns that lead to emotional distress.
(205) 512-9932 View (205) 512-9932
Photo of Angelia Clausell Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Angelia Clausell Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who is seeking help for their mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or relationship issues. They are motivated to work on their issues and are open to exploring new coping strategies and treatment options. Their needs revolve around feeling supported, validated, and understood in a nonjudgmental and safe environment. They are looking for guidance and direction to navigate through their struggles and make positive changes in their life. Their goals may include improving their self-esteem, developing healthier coping mechanisms, and creating more fulfilling relationships.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking help for their mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or relationship issues. They are motivated to work on their issues and are open to exploring new coping strategies and treatment options. Their needs revolve around feeling supported, validated, and understood in a nonjudgmental and safe environment. They are looking for guidance and direction to navigate through their struggles and make positive changes in their life. Their goals may include improving their self-esteem, developing healthier coping mechanisms, and creating more fulfilling relationships.
(251) 250-0851 View (251) 250-0851
Photo of Joseph Knox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Joseph Knox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35226
Do you wake to sinking feelings of sadness, racing thoughts consumed by worry, or struggling to find the energy and motivation to manage daily life? Do you experience low self-esteem, low self-confidence or diminishing self-worth? Do you feel overwhelmed by fear or stress, finding it difficult to concentrate or adjust to the post-pandemic era, or in need of guidance through grief, loss, separation/divorce, or any life-changing situation? You are not alone! I have helped many individuals, couples and families work through the seemingly unbearable challenges they face and find their path to healing. I believe there is a path for you.
Do you wake to sinking feelings of sadness, racing thoughts consumed by worry, or struggling to find the energy and motivation to manage daily life? Do you experience low self-esteem, low self-confidence or diminishing self-worth? Do you feel overwhelmed by fear or stress, finding it difficult to concentrate or adjust to the post-pandemic era, or in need of guidance through grief, loss, separation/divorce, or any life-changing situation? You are not alone! I have helped many individuals, couples and families work through the seemingly unbearable challenges they face and find their path to healing. I believe there is a path for you.
(844) 816-2579 View (844) 816-2579
Rose Blakey Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35229
My specialty is working with couples or families who have addictions or trauma issues to include grief, depression and anxiety.
I have over 30 years of experience of working with both individuals and couples with with addictions, childhood trauma, depression, suicidal thoughts, and attempts. In addition, I have worked with LGBT clients for over 12 years. My practice is affirming for both straight and gay persons. I like to focus on providing support for identifying one's strengths and finding solutions that help to create inner peace. In addition, I have provided trainings on various topics such as suicide prevention, trauma and counseling clients who live with HIV. I provide training and consultation in these areas.
My specialty is working with couples or families who have addictions or trauma issues to include grief, depression and anxiety.
I have over 30 years of experience of working with both individuals and couples with with addictions, childhood trauma, depression, suicidal thoughts, and attempts. In addition, I have worked with LGBT clients for over 12 years. My practice is affirming for both straight and gay persons. I like to focus on providing support for identifying one's strengths and finding solutions that help to create inner peace. In addition, I have provided trainings on various topics such as suicide prevention, trauma and counseling clients who live with HIV. I provide training and consultation in these areas.
(334) 258-1755 View (334) 258-1755
Photo of Whitney Gay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Birmingham, AL
Whitney Gay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35205
I have had the privilege of helping women cope with the trauma and grief of losing their babies due to miscarriage, stillbirth or post delivery death.
As a Clinician & Psychotherapist, I am invested in helping you achieve your goals and dreams. Whether it be developing critical coping skills to fight depression and anxiety, helping you resolve issues from the past, or navigating relationship issues, I am committed to your success and health. In this world of criticism, negativity and self-doubt, I want to help you overcome the challenges and struggles you face and empower you to flourish and thrive. We can work together to help break down the barriers in your life and enable you to reach your full potential.
I have had the privilege of helping women cope with the trauma and grief of losing their babies due to miscarriage, stillbirth or post delivery death.
As a Clinician & Psychotherapist, I am invested in helping you achieve your goals and dreams. Whether it be developing critical coping skills to fight depression and anxiety, helping you resolve issues from the past, or navigating relationship issues, I am committed to your success and health. In this world of criticism, negativity and self-doubt, I want to help you overcome the challenges and struggles you face and empower you to flourish and thrive. We can work together to help break down the barriers in your life and enable you to reach your full potential.
(205) 273-5468 View (205) 273-5468
Photo of Jennifer Reynolds Rodgers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Jennifer Reynolds Rodgers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
Jennifer Reynolds Rodgers has been practicing in the mental health field in the state of Alabama for the past eight years. She has worked in a variety of settings, including inpatient treatment, non-profit agencies, and private practice. Her areas of expertise in working with clients include depression, anxiety, stress, trauma and PTSD, grief and loss, LGBTQ+ issues, addiction and substance abuse, relationship issues and life transitions. Jennifer is passionate about helping others create and implement a healthy lifestyle.
Jennifer Reynolds Rodgers has been practicing in the mental health field in the state of Alabama for the past eight years. She has worked in a variety of settings, including inpatient treatment, non-profit agencies, and private practice. Her areas of expertise in working with clients include depression, anxiety, stress, trauma and PTSD, grief and loss, LGBTQ+ issues, addiction and substance abuse, relationship issues and life transitions. Jennifer is passionate about helping others create and implement a healthy lifestyle.
(205) 832-5875 View (205) 832-5875
Photo of Charles Woody Howard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Charles Woody Howard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
I have extensive experience working with adults, teens, and families with substance abuse, dual diagnosis, anxiety, depression, adjustment stress, relationship issues, grief and loss, trauma/abuse, PTSD, and anger management.
Are you struggling with a loved one? Struggling with self-confidence? Feeling anxious or depressed? Having difficulty coping with a life transition; relationship strain, or loss of a loved one? Want to get to know yourself better? Not happy with the way things are going? Not sure what to do? Do you need a safe place to talk about what's going on in your life? Need some practical solutions? My goal is to create a comfortable, non-judgmental environment so that I can assist you in getting back on track, or defining a new road altogether.
I have extensive experience working with adults, teens, and families with substance abuse, dual diagnosis, anxiety, depression, adjustment stress, relationship issues, grief and loss, trauma/abuse, PTSD, and anger management.
Are you struggling with a loved one? Struggling with self-confidence? Feeling anxious or depressed? Having difficulty coping with a life transition; relationship strain, or loss of a loved one? Want to get to know yourself better? Not happy with the way things are going? Not sure what to do? Do you need a safe place to talk about what's going on in your life? Need some practical solutions? My goal is to create a comfortable, non-judgmental environment so that I can assist you in getting back on track, or defining a new road altogether.
(205) 538-3099 View (205) 538-3099
Photo of Christina Webb, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Christina Webb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35235
Among the issues I address in therapy are anxiety, depression, relationship issues, communication, stress, substance abuse and grief.
Are you feeling lost, or overwhelmed by changes in your life? Life was not delivered with a book of instructions. It can be challenging, disappointing, stressful, and even lonely at times. Each of us has to make sense of our world. When things don't make sense we experience anxiety, depression, anger, confusion, stress, or other difficulties. Therapy is directed at helping each individual or couple become more effective at dealing with and developing coping skills so they can better manage their own unique life situation. Each person is unique; therefore, we will work together to craft a specific plan designed for your needs.
Among the issues I address in therapy are anxiety, depression, relationship issues, communication, stress, substance abuse and grief.
Are you feeling lost, or overwhelmed by changes in your life? Life was not delivered with a book of instructions. It can be challenging, disappointing, stressful, and even lonely at times. Each of us has to make sense of our world. When things don't make sense we experience anxiety, depression, anger, confusion, stress, or other difficulties. Therapy is directed at helping each individual or couple become more effective at dealing with and developing coping skills so they can better manage their own unique life situation. Each person is unique; therefore, we will work together to craft a specific plan designed for your needs.
(205) 751-4010 View (205) 751-4010
Photo of Katy Powell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Katy Powell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35244
Waitlist for new clients
Building up your love for yourself is a foundation that we’ll work on together so that you not only survive but thrive! I am a licensed professional counselor with a background in domestic abuse, sexual assault, trauma therapy, anxiety and depression, grief counseling, child sexual abuse, and substance abuse.
Are you looking to put the past in the past and move on to a better future? That can be easy to say but tough to do. Taking steps to prioritize your emotional wellbeing and heal from anxiety, trauma and post-trauma symptoms is where I would love to partner with you. Working together, I can help you achieve that better future. Are you concerned about the impact that relationships are having on your happiness? Through therapy, we can work together to recognize unhealthy dynamics in relationships that are having a negative impact and build a plan that will help you to truly enjoy fulfilling relationships with those you care about.
Building up your love for yourself is a foundation that we’ll work on together so that you not only survive but thrive! I am a licensed professional counselor with a background in domestic abuse, sexual assault, trauma therapy, anxiety and depression, grief counseling, child sexual abuse, and substance abuse.
Are you looking to put the past in the past and move on to a better future? That can be easy to say but tough to do. Taking steps to prioritize your emotional wellbeing and heal from anxiety, trauma and post-trauma symptoms is where I would love to partner with you. Working together, I can help you achieve that better future. Are you concerned about the impact that relationships are having on your happiness? Through therapy, we can work together to recognize unhealthy dynamics in relationships that are having a negative impact and build a plan that will help you to truly enjoy fulfilling relationships with those you care about.
(205) 742-9539 View (205) 742-9539
Photo of Rev. Dr. Tommie Watkins Jr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Birmingham, AL
Rev. Dr. Tommie Watkins Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
I understand you are questioning and even struggling with sexuality, spirituality, anger, fear, grief and loss, and codependency in romantic, platonic, professional, and familial relationships.
My ideal client is one that perhaps is dealing with feelings of fear, anger, envy, uncertainty, depression, perhaps amplified by strong religious convictions and spiritual uncertainty. They are particularly uncomfortable with being vulnerable often negligent in discussing feelings and issues of religion and spirituality, but will allow a few conversations to explore what their particular and specific issues and beliefs may be, including past traumas and sexual abuse issues. This client would be open to exploring their spirituality (not religion) as a means of developing and improving coping skills and spiritual strategies.
I understand you are questioning and even struggling with sexuality, spirituality, anger, fear, grief and loss, and codependency in romantic, platonic, professional, and familial relationships.
My ideal client is one that perhaps is dealing with feelings of fear, anger, envy, uncertainty, depression, perhaps amplified by strong religious convictions and spiritual uncertainty. They are particularly uncomfortable with being vulnerable often negligent in discussing feelings and issues of religion and spirituality, but will allow a few conversations to explore what their particular and specific issues and beliefs may be, including past traumas and sexual abuse issues. This client would be open to exploring their spirituality (not religion) as a means of developing and improving coping skills and spiritual strategies.
(205) 772-8080 View (205) 772-8080
Photo of Erica Wilbanks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Erica Wilbanks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35244
A client once told me, "I've made peace with death.
Are you ready for change? Austrian psychiatrist and psychotherapist, Viktor Frankl stated “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves”. I have built most of my work around studying trauma and the effects it has on a human. Trauma defined is an event or circumstance that is beyond a person's ability to cope properly. Many symptoms like anxiety, depression, dissociation, fatigue, and guilt follow trauma. Trauma is scary and I do not believe we were meant to do life alone. I offer to serve as someone who can collaboratively walk through the trauma with you.
A client once told me, "I've made peace with death.
Are you ready for change? Austrian psychiatrist and psychotherapist, Viktor Frankl stated “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves”. I have built most of my work around studying trauma and the effects it has on a human. Trauma defined is an event or circumstance that is beyond a person's ability to cope properly. Many symptoms like anxiety, depression, dissociation, fatigue, and guilt follow trauma. Trauma is scary and I do not believe we were meant to do life alone. I offer to serve as someone who can collaboratively walk through the trauma with you.
(205) 883-8517 View (205) 883-8517
Tom McLure Red Mountain Counseling Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAEd, MA
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
Waitlist for new clients
Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Addictions, Trauma. Counseling/Therapy is investment in quality of life. People seek help when frustrated, confused, overwhelmed. Does addiction (substance/behavior) control your life? Does a challenging relationship frustrate you? Are you tired of trying to change your partner? or trying to change yourself for your partner? Have you experienced painful loss? Do you frequently feel tense and uneasy? Does the life you live differ from the life you want?
Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Addictions, Trauma. Counseling/Therapy is investment in quality of life. People seek help when frustrated, confused, overwhelmed. Does addiction (substance/behavior) control your life? Does a challenging relationship frustrate you? Are you tired of trying to change your partner? or trying to change yourself for your partner? Have you experienced painful loss? Do you frequently feel tense and uneasy? Does the life you live differ from the life you want?
(205) 618-8840 View (205) 618-8840
Photo of Isaac Cruz, Associate Licensed Counselor in Birmingham, AL
Isaac Cruz
Associate Licensed Counselor, MS, ALC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35206
If you have been struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, cultural issues, identity, self-esteem, or other behavioral issues call me so we can find a therapeutic solution for the stage of life you're going through.
Life can be hard at times. I'm ready to help you navigate through the ups and downs of your everyday life. There is a season in everything, no matter what season you are going through there is a purpose for you. Feeling overwhelmed by different stressors in life? Are you having relationship problems? I can walk through these areas with you and together we can find a solution to those problems. I like connecting with different types of individuals, and as a minority, I can focus on different cultural issues.
If you have been struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, cultural issues, identity, self-esteem, or other behavioral issues call me so we can find a therapeutic solution for the stage of life you're going through.
Life can be hard at times. I'm ready to help you navigate through the ups and downs of your everyday life. There is a season in everything, no matter what season you are going through there is a purpose for you. Feeling overwhelmed by different stressors in life? Are you having relationship problems? I can walk through these areas with you and together we can find a solution to those problems. I like connecting with different types of individuals, and as a minority, I can focus on different cultural issues.
(205) 273-5415 View (205) 273-5415
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.