How can a grief counselor help me recover from the loss of a loved one?

While it's not necessary for everyone who is grieving to seek professional assistance, working with a counselor or therapist who specializes in grief may be helpful in certain situations. Perhaps you feel that you need assistance in coping with your sorrow but don't think a support group is right for you. Or you're finding that time hasn't eased your grief. Or you suspect that you are struggling with depression or complicated grief.

In such cases, you may find it helpful to turn to a mental health professional. It may also be useful if you are dealing with issues that are too complicated or far-reaching to discuss in a support group—for example, if you had a very conflicted relationship with the person who died or you are coping with a traumatic death. Working one-on-one with a grief counselor may make it easier for you to share your feelings and focus on your needs. A mental health professional can also help evaluate whether you might benefit from medication, such as an antidepressant or an anti-anxiety drug.