Therapists in Fairfax, VA

Photo of Racquel Semeraro in Fairfax, VA
Racquel Semeraro
LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I am experienced with individuals who are struggling with grief and loss, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, women's issues and overall wellness.
Are you ready to change your life? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have worked with individual, couples and families for over twenty years. My goal is to help you enhance your life, improve your overall functioning and have a better understanding on how to care for yourself. My approach is gentle but direct and strength based.
I am experienced with individuals who are struggling with grief and loss, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, women's issues and overall wellness.
Are you ready to change your life? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have worked with individual, couples and families for over twenty years. My goal is to help you enhance your life, improve your overall functioning and have a better understanding on how to care for yourself. My approach is gentle but direct and strength based.
(571) 222-4958 View (571) 222-4958
Photo of Karyn Walsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Karyn Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Hello! I work with adults, including older adults and their families, challenged by life's interruptions and stress--how can you cope? Yes, you can endure. I offer experience with aging, caregiving, life transitions, depression/anxiety, pandemic related stress, illness and disability, cognitive/neuro impairment, death and dying, care/resource planning, loss and grief, trauma and relationship/conflict resolution. I use interventions (CBT, solution focused, relational, etc...) tailored to best meet your needs. I use a person centered and strengths based approach to offer hope in your efforts to thrive.
Hello! I work with adults, including older adults and their families, challenged by life's interruptions and stress--how can you cope? Yes, you can endure. I offer experience with aging, caregiving, life transitions, depression/anxiety, pandemic related stress, illness and disability, cognitive/neuro impairment, death and dying, care/resource planning, loss and grief, trauma and relationship/conflict resolution. I use interventions (CBT, solution focused, relational, etc...) tailored to best meet your needs. I use a person centered and strengths based approach to offer hope in your efforts to thrive.
(571) 474-1019 View (571) 474-1019
Photo of Terry J Thorpe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Terry J Thorpe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I have extensive post graduate training in grief and trauma and how it affects us spiritually, mentally and physically.
I am a graduate of both the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and Virginia Commonwealth University, with a master’s in social work. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the state of Virginia. I have been working with individuals and families for approximately 18 years.
I have extensive post graduate training in grief and trauma and how it affects us spiritually, mentally and physically.
I am a graduate of both the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and Virginia Commonwealth University, with a master’s in social work. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the state of Virginia. I have been working with individuals and families for approximately 18 years.
(757) 828-3249 View (757) 828-3249
Photo of Mary Lou Lyon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Mary Lou Lyon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I work with individuals and couples and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, loss and grief, life transition, and relationship difficulties. My counseling style is strongly relational with an emphasis on your individual healing, growth, and personal development. My goal is to provide a caring and safe environment where you can feel connected, speak honestly, and discover ways to solve problems as well as bring about emotional freedom and psychological growth. I believe that most of our difficulties come abount in the context of personal relationships and that psychotherapy is a way to learn new positive ways of relating. I
I work with individuals and couples and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, loss and grief, life transition, and relationship difficulties. My counseling style is strongly relational with an emphasis on your individual healing, growth, and personal development. My goal is to provide a caring and safe environment where you can feel connected, speak honestly, and discover ways to solve problems as well as bring about emotional freedom and psychological growth. I believe that most of our difficulties come abount in the context of personal relationships and that psychotherapy is a way to learn new positive ways of relating. I
(703) 810-7517 View (703) 810-7517
Photo of Jacob Lipman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Jacob Lipman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA, CSOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 20151  (Online Only)
I look forward to accompanying you on your journey of self-realization, whether it focuses on the past, present, or future. All evolving individuals are faced with real-life challenges and tragedies that, at times, upend their sense of well-being, leave them in a position of loss and confusion, lacking hope for the future. Life is more than a set of goals, it is also a path of twists and turns that require you to manuver though obstacles in order to find your authentic self. Allow therapy to be the vessel you travel upon on your way to discovering what matters the most and how you can achieve your highest goals.
I look forward to accompanying you on your journey of self-realization, whether it focuses on the past, present, or future. All evolving individuals are faced with real-life challenges and tragedies that, at times, upend their sense of well-being, leave them in a position of loss and confusion, lacking hope for the future. Life is more than a set of goals, it is also a path of twists and turns that require you to manuver though obstacles in order to find your authentic self. Allow therapy to be the vessel you travel upon on your way to discovering what matters the most and how you can achieve your highest goals.
(540) 937-4923 View (540) 937-4923
Photo of Monique Gardner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Monique Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 20152
CBT, ACT, grief support, mindfulness, meditation, motivational interviewing, crisis care, and a strength-based approach.
I take a holistic, person center approach in treatment and enjoy meeting people where they are. I do utilize motivational interviewing skills and help in guiding towards healthy ways to cope. I enjoy working with all populations but specialize with 10+. I have a background working with dual diagnosis, LGBTQIA+, post crisis care treatment, grief, behavioral and mood disorders, eating disorders, OCD, psychosis, and trauma.
CBT, ACT, grief support, mindfulness, meditation, motivational interviewing, crisis care, and a strength-based approach.
I take a holistic, person center approach in treatment and enjoy meeting people where they are. I do utilize motivational interviewing skills and help in guiding towards healthy ways to cope. I enjoy working with all populations but specialize with 10+. I have a background working with dual diagnosis, LGBTQIA+, post crisis care treatment, grief, behavioral and mood disorders, eating disorders, OCD, psychosis, and trauma.
(571) 470-7307 View (571) 470-7307
Photo of Susannah J. Volkers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Susannah J. Volkers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MABC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
If you are in a season of suffering, difficulty, or overwhelmed with life challenges, consider seeing Susannah for therapeutic services. Susannah is available to help individuals, couples and families with various issues, including, but not limited to: grief/loss, anxiety, trauma, adoption, identity formation, life transitions, eating issues, chronic illness, and depression. If desired, Susannah is able to integrate a Christian framework to guide her clients towards positive and sustainable change.
If you are in a season of suffering, difficulty, or overwhelmed with life challenges, consider seeing Susannah for therapeutic services. Susannah is available to help individuals, couples and families with various issues, including, but not limited to: grief/loss, anxiety, trauma, adoption, identity formation, life transitions, eating issues, chronic illness, and depression. If desired, Susannah is able to integrate a Christian framework to guide her clients towards positive and sustainable change.
(571) 366-7807 View (571) 366-7807
Photo of Jennifer Rulli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Jennifer Rulli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Our early family of origin experiences lay the foundation for internal and relational patterns that continue to play out in later life. Many of our patterns include our best and most creative efforts to adapt to the tough stuff of life such as trauma, misattunement, and loss. Though these patterns are not set in stone, they are often automatic and hard to recognize, change, or understand. Together we can explore the ways in which our adaptations may have served you well in earlier times but are no longer proving to be helpful, effective, or authentic. I work with clients to create connection, healing, safety, and satisfaction.
Our early family of origin experiences lay the foundation for internal and relational patterns that continue to play out in later life. Many of our patterns include our best and most creative efforts to adapt to the tough stuff of life such as trauma, misattunement, and loss. Though these patterns are not set in stone, they are often automatic and hard to recognize, change, or understand. Together we can explore the ways in which our adaptations may have served you well in earlier times but are no longer proving to be helpful, effective, or authentic. I work with clients to create connection, healing, safety, and satisfaction.
(571) 470-7292 View (571) 470-7292
Photo of Delos Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Delos Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, QMHCM
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include impulsivity, inattention, personality disorders, developmental and intellectual disabilities, difficulties with life transitions, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, family and peer relationship issues, play therapy and substance abuse.
Often asking for help is one of the hardest parts on the road to self-fulfillment. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 5 years of experience working with individuals, families and couples. Through listening, validation and learning your unique needs, I will create a plan specifically catered to you to assist in improving functioning across areas and life satisfaction. My approach is to explore and understand thoughts and behaviors that impact current functioning, as well as how past experiences can shape and impact the present moment.
My specialties include impulsivity, inattention, personality disorders, developmental and intellectual disabilities, difficulties with life transitions, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, family and peer relationship issues, play therapy and substance abuse.
Often asking for help is one of the hardest parts on the road to self-fulfillment. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 5 years of experience working with individuals, families and couples. Through listening, validation and learning your unique needs, I will create a plan specifically catered to you to assist in improving functioning across areas and life satisfaction. My approach is to explore and understand thoughts and behaviors that impact current functioning, as well as how past experiences can shape and impact the present moment.
(571) 998-1757 View (571) 998-1757
Photo of Susan A Etkind, Psychologist in Fairfax, VA
Susan A Etkind
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
With adults, I work with presenting issues including anxiety, depression, grief, stress management, coping skill development and refinement, and adjustment difficulties (including to the pandemic).
I provide individual therapy to clientele affected by both short-term and longer-term difficulties. I enjoy working with children as well as with adults. With children, I work with presenting issues including anxiety, depression, anger management, behavioral challenges, stress management, coping skill development and refinement, and adjustment difficulties (including to the pandemic). I structure my sessions with youth and their families using a hybrid model, spending half of each session working with the parent(s) to refine a variety of parenting skills, and half of each session working directly with the child.
With adults, I work with presenting issues including anxiety, depression, grief, stress management, coping skill development and refinement, and adjustment difficulties (including to the pandemic).
I provide individual therapy to clientele affected by both short-term and longer-term difficulties. I enjoy working with children as well as with adults. With children, I work with presenting issues including anxiety, depression, anger management, behavioral challenges, stress management, coping skill development and refinement, and adjustment difficulties (including to the pandemic). I structure my sessions with youth and their families using a hybrid model, spending half of each session working with the parent(s) to refine a variety of parenting skills, and half of each session working directly with the child.
(571) 989-6928 View (571) 989-6928
Photo of Yuko C Constas, Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy in Fairfax, VA
Yuko C Constas
Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy, MSMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be challenging. Perhaps you are feeling stuck in your marital or relational issues. Maybe, you are feeling hopeless after the loss of a loved one or job. When you need help and direction most, therapy can guide you through challenges. I believe that anyone can excel with sufficient guidance and support. My areas of concentration are couples’ issues, family conflicts, life transitions, self-esteem, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, emotional healing, spiritual issues, and more. Also, I use EMDR to help you with trauma and childhood experiences.
Life can be challenging. Perhaps you are feeling stuck in your marital or relational issues. Maybe, you are feeling hopeless after the loss of a loved one or job. When you need help and direction most, therapy can guide you through challenges. I believe that anyone can excel with sufficient guidance and support. My areas of concentration are couples’ issues, family conflicts, life transitions, self-esteem, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, emotional healing, spiritual issues, and more. Also, I use EMDR to help you with trauma and childhood experiences.
(571) 200-4860 View (571) 200-4860
Photo of Kim Arellano, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Kim Arellano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I also have special training to uniquely serve marriages affected by Adult ADHD, parents with a struggling young adult, military families, couples on the brink of divorce, couples with previous attempts at therapy, relationship therapy with only one person, codependency, and those recovering from the end of an important relationship through divorce or death.
I enjoy helping people who are feeling undone by life or loved ones to find their way. In couples therapy, I help you forge a rewarding & resilient relationship by cultivating the right change. In individual therapy, I help adults dealing with psychological distress, trauma, anxiety, or depression stemming from issues in family of origin, primary relationship, immediate family, and workplace. I am trauma-responsive and neurodivergence-informed in all that I do. On a personal note, I’ve been married 26 years, raised 3 young adults, and had a prior career. From this, I draw great empathy, compassion, and encouragement for my clients.
I also have special training to uniquely serve marriages affected by Adult ADHD, parents with a struggling young adult, military families, couples on the brink of divorce, couples with previous attempts at therapy, relationship therapy with only one person, codependency, and those recovering from the end of an important relationship through divorce or death.
I enjoy helping people who are feeling undone by life or loved ones to find their way. In couples therapy, I help you forge a rewarding & resilient relationship by cultivating the right change. In individual therapy, I help adults dealing with psychological distress, trauma, anxiety, or depression stemming from issues in family of origin, primary relationship, immediate family, and workplace. I am trauma-responsive and neurodivergence-informed in all that I do. On a personal note, I’ve been married 26 years, raised 3 young adults, and had a prior career. From this, I draw great empathy, compassion, and encouragement for my clients.
(571) 339-3103 View (571) 339-3103
Photo of Claire Bartick, Psychologist in Fairfax, VA
Claire Bartick
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22032
I help people with anxiety/depression, grief & loss, people coping with a Cluster B personality disorder, & couples facing infertility & other issues.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I specialize in psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. People often come to me because, despite their efforts to change, they end up in the same cycles...cycles of anxiety, depression, disordered eating, relationship struggles, isolation, procrastination, workaholism...the list goes on and on. People often wonder "why can't I just change?" These cycles of behavior are driven by our life experiences and sense of ourself and others. Together, we will explore these ideas so that you can begin to create newer positive cycles of peace, calm, joy, contentment, intimacy, health, and fulfillment.
I help people with anxiety/depression, grief & loss, people coping with a Cluster B personality disorder, & couples facing infertility & other issues.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I specialize in psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. People often come to me because, despite their efforts to change, they end up in the same cycles...cycles of anxiety, depression, disordered eating, relationship struggles, isolation, procrastination, workaholism...the list goes on and on. People often wonder "why can't I just change?" These cycles of behavior are driven by our life experiences and sense of ourself and others. Together, we will explore these ideas so that you can begin to create newer positive cycles of peace, calm, joy, contentment, intimacy, health, and fulfillment.
(571) 217-5726 View (571) 217-5726
Photo of Jessica O. Hunter, Psychologist in Fairfax, VA
Jessica O. Hunter
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I have extensive clinical experience treating clients with depression, anxiety, trauma and/or grief.
I enjoy any opportunity to work with a individual psychotherapy clients (adolescents,adult, older adults and enjoy the challenge of sitting with couples/families. I do take the opportunity to conduct psychological evaluations and wish to expand this in my practice. Many of my clients are challenged by depression, anxiety, relation ship, low self-esteem, mood disorders, eating disorders, grief and life transition struggles. I work with a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic theory, and attachment-based couples treatment and to work with the client collaboratively in the treatment process.
I have extensive clinical experience treating clients with depression, anxiety, trauma and/or grief.
I enjoy any opportunity to work with a individual psychotherapy clients (adolescents,adult, older adults and enjoy the challenge of sitting with couples/families. I do take the opportunity to conduct psychological evaluations and wish to expand this in my practice. Many of my clients are challenged by depression, anxiety, relation ship, low self-esteem, mood disorders, eating disorders, grief and life transition struggles. I work with a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic theory, and attachment-based couples treatment and to work with the client collaboratively in the treatment process.
(703) 634-9965 x1026 View (703) 634-9965 x1026
Photo of Fairfax Place Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Fairfax Place Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
Members of our community have experienced interpersonal and structural violence, attachment disruptions and loss, prejudice and injustice, and feelings of vulnerability and uncertainty. Our expertise and specialized training provides individualized support that recognizes the uniqueness of each person’s experience in the world. Our clinicians help clients develop insight into how they have come to experience their inner and external worlds somatically, cognitively, and emotionally. We give attention and care to building skills that strengthen resilience, coping, and positive change.
Members of our community have experienced interpersonal and structural violence, attachment disruptions and loss, prejudice and injustice, and feelings of vulnerability and uncertainty. Our expertise and specialized training provides individualized support that recognizes the uniqueness of each person’s experience in the world. Our clinicians help clients develop insight into how they have come to experience their inner and external worlds somatically, cognitively, and emotionally. We give attention and care to building skills that strengthen resilience, coping, and positive change.
(571) 520-4561 View (571) 520-4561
Photo of Aurora Counseling and Wellness LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Aurora Counseling and Wellness LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, personal identity, life changes, relationships, family and loss.
EMAIL is the fastest way to connect. I am an LPC with years of experience working with a diverse population of children, adolescents and adults in various settings: community counseling centers, therapeutic day schools, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, university clinic, and private practice settings. I received my Bachelor’s in Psychology from Indiana University and my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The George Washington University.
Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, personal identity, life changes, relationships, family and loss.
EMAIL is the fastest way to connect. I am an LPC with years of experience working with a diverse population of children, adolescents and adults in various settings: community counseling centers, therapeutic day schools, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, university clinic, and private practice settings. I received my Bachelor’s in Psychology from Indiana University and my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The George Washington University.
(703) 783-3651 View (703) 783-3651
Photo of Sherry Brown, Pre-Licensed Professional in Fairfax, VA
Sherry Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
With almost a decade of experience as an art therapist, I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and teens coping with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, difficult life transitions, impulse control, anger management, panic attacks, and grief and loss. "Art therapy gets to the part of the brain where we may not have words”- Lindsey Vance's passion for art and the creative process.”
With almost a decade of experience as an art therapist, I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and teens coping with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, difficult life transitions, impulse control, anger management, panic attacks, and grief and loss. "Art therapy gets to the part of the brain where we may not have words”- Lindsey Vance's passion for art and the creative process.”
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Photo of Lindsey McRae, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Lindsey McRae
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I enjoy working with adults, adolescents and couples and my areas of interest include anxiety, depression, miscarriage/pregnancy loss, infertility, substance use/addiction, trauma, ADHD, military related stressors, and life adjustments.
Accepting New Clients- As we navigate life, we face obstacles and come across some bumps in the road. These challenges can feel overwhelming and can impact our relationships, sleep, mood, job performance, and overall well being. My goal is to empower clients and provide them with support and tools to improve their lives. Offering an empathetic ear as well as a therapeutic perspective, I value the opportunity to walk alongside clients in navigating life’s ups and downs.
I enjoy working with adults, adolescents and couples and my areas of interest include anxiety, depression, miscarriage/pregnancy loss, infertility, substance use/addiction, trauma, ADHD, military related stressors, and life adjustments.
Accepting New Clients- As we navigate life, we face obstacles and come across some bumps in the road. These challenges can feel overwhelming and can impact our relationships, sleep, mood, job performance, and overall well being. My goal is to empower clients and provide them with support and tools to improve their lives. Offering an empathetic ear as well as a therapeutic perspective, I value the opportunity to walk alongside clients in navigating life’s ups and downs.
(703) 636-2888 x8 View (703) 636-2888 x8
Photo of Ben Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Ben Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
In my experience, crisis in the form of grief, relationship issues, or from other unresolved issues is often a catalyst for change and I would be honored to have the opportunity to work with you.
I am a clinician with over 30 years combined experience in the fields of substance abuse and mental health. I have worked for a number of years assisting adults find recovery in an outpatient substance abuse setting. In more recent years, I have worked with people of all ages experiencing a mental health and/or substance abuse crisis. I use a client centered approach and I am familiar with other treatment modalities such as cognitive behavior therapy.
In my experience, crisis in the form of grief, relationship issues, or from other unresolved issues is often a catalyst for change and I would be honored to have the opportunity to work with you.
I am a clinician with over 30 years combined experience in the fields of substance abuse and mental health. I have worked for a number of years assisting adults find recovery in an outpatient substance abuse setting. In more recent years, I have worked with people of all ages experiencing a mental health and/or substance abuse crisis. I use a client centered approach and I am familiar with other treatment modalities such as cognitive behavior therapy.
(571) 520-9567 View (571) 520-9567
Photo of Chan Young Park, Pre-Licensed Professional in Fairfax, VA
Chan Young Park
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, family, and married couples with different backgrounds and various issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, anger control, addiction, trauma, marital conflicts, spiritual issues, relational issues, grief, life transitions, trans-generational issues, identity issues, etc.
Sometimes the process of finding a therapist can be a challenge. If you are on this journey, I am here to listen your unique experiences and help you cope with mental health challenges by providing you with a holistic therapeutic experience and by showing empathy to see your world like how you see it. I believe that being accepting, non-judgmental, understanding, and listening are few of the most important skills as a therapist.
I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, family, and married couples with different backgrounds and various issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, anger control, addiction, trauma, marital conflicts, spiritual issues, relational issues, grief, life transitions, trans-generational issues, identity issues, etc.
Sometimes the process of finding a therapist can be a challenge. If you are on this journey, I am here to listen your unique experiences and help you cope with mental health challenges by providing you with a holistic therapeutic experience and by showing empathy to see your world like how you see it. I believe that being accepting, non-judgmental, understanding, and listening are few of the most important skills as a therapist.
(571) 450-9255 View (571) 450-9255
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.