What are Grief Counseling & Grief Therapy

Deep wounds can lead to profound states of yearning, disillusionment, and exhaustion. Yet grief, bereavement, and loss are nearly universal human experiences – you are not alone in your suffering.

You can learn to carry your loss by weighing the heaviness of your heart, opening fully to your pain, and turning to your friends, family, and community for support.

Giving Yourself Time & Space

It can be helpful to give yourself the time and space to grieve in your own way. No two losses are the same, and there is no “right” way to grieve. In some cases, part of making space for grieving involves setting aside time to speak with a professional counselor or therapist who can help you gain perspective and adapt to the changes you are facing.

Counselors vs Therapists

The difference between a counselor and a therapist is largely a matter of semantics, and the type of work they do can overlap to a great extent. Generally speaking, people with an LPC license are referred to as “counselors,” while those with a LCSW are referred to as “therapists.” Licensed doctors with a Ph.D. or Psy.D have the legally-protected title “psychotherapist.”

Grief Counseling

The term “grief counseling” refers to a type of service for people who are seeking support with what is sometimes “uncomplicated” grief. This simply means that there are not additional mental health concerns that are complicating matters, and the work focuses directly on the grieving process.

Grief Therapy

The term “grief therapy” refers to more comprehensive treatment for individuals who are experiencing long-term problems functioning following bereavement. Grief therapy is also appropriate for individuals who struggle with grief and at the same time struggle with other difficulties such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or substance abuse.

How We Can Help You

Our depression treatment program has licensed mental health professionals who are trained to help you cope with grief and help you move through a grieving process. Please feel free to contact us if us if you think we could be of assistance to you.