Psychotherapy for Dealing with Grief and Loss

Grieving after losing a loved one can be a challenging process. Unfortunately, all too many individuals go through the process alone. They often hide their grief to not burden others. The good news is there is a better way. Psychotherapy offers an opportunity to discuss what you are going through and find lasting relief.

Here is what you should know about psychotherapy for grief and loss

Psychotherapy can seem like an intimidating term. However, it is most often a relaxing and therapeutic experience. When first beginning psychotherapy, many people are reluctant to share, but they eventually find it effective and beneficial for their healing. The following is a closer look at how psychotherapy can help when dealing with the stages of grief and the loss of a loved one.

Psychotherapy explained

Psychotherapy is a psychiatry treatment type. It is one of the most common types of psychiatry treatment used to help treat a range of mental health concerns. These concerns include but are not limited to grief and loss, major depressive disorder (MDD), and bipolar disorder. There are different types of psychotherapy. The most common types include:

• Psychoanalysis
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
• Humanistic therapy

Each type of psychotherapy is unique in its approach. Therefore, a psychiatrist may recommend one type of psychotherapy over another depending on the extent of the patient’s grief and loss, the type of symptoms they are experiencing, and what is most likely to work best for them based on their personal preference and treatment goals.

The benefits of psychotherapy for grief and loss

A common method of treating grief and loss is psychotherapy. As severe as grief and loss may be for many individuals, the symptoms should improve over time with the right coping mechanisms in place. Psychotherapy is often one of the best ways to deal with grief and loss. Psychotherapy is effective because it focuses on coming to terms with the loss of a loved one and finding ways to cope with the grief in a manner that still allows the individual the ability to function normally each day.

How psychotherapy for grief and loss works

Psychotherapy sessions are relaxing sessions that involve a discussion with a licensed psychiatrist. Each session is entirely confidential. The way the process works depends on the type of psychotherapy. For example, grief counseling may include a series of questions by the psychiatrist that help the patient open up and share their feelings about the loss of a loved one.

When to consider psychotherapy for grief and loss

Psychotherapy is encouraged for anyone dealing with the loss of a loved friend, family member, or significant other. In addition, people who have experienced prolonged grief or a decline in their ability to function should also consider seeking psychotherapy treatment.