Image of a therapist and client in a counseling session.

940 people sought grief & loss counseling help at Durham in the last year

Discover how starting therapy with a grief & loss counseling can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.

Meet with a provider as soon as this week

Good news! We have 42 therapists in North Carolina available for an online or in-person session.
Darryl McCarroll

Hear from Darryl McCarroll, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

View Darryl McCarroll's profile

What is your go-to approach for grief & loss counseling?

My approach to grief and loss counseling is allowing the client to openly share what and how thery are feeling. The subject of loss requires the counselor to show and express empathy, encouragement, and guidance. I educate the client on the five stages of grief, review strategies to assist the client through each stage, and end with reminding the client of the strength they possess to manage the crises of loss and the ability to heal.

What tools do you teach in grief & loss counseling?

I use acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) which requires focus on one's own values. ACT encourages clients to:

  • Commit to action and achieve goals
  • Accept difficult emotions without judging them or how they are experienced
  • Be more aware of and present in daily activities
  • Create space between themselves and their thoughts (cognitive defusion)
  • Develop the “observing self,” or self-as-context, to describe their thoughts and feelings dispassionately

How do you know when a client is making meaningful progress in grief & loss counseling?

I use EMDR as a tool and I take measurements of the disturbance level the client is experiencing due to their grief memories. As the disturbance levels of the memories decline, I know the client is establishing the cognitive ability to process and reprocess the grief or loss.

What can clients do in their personal time to supplement grief & loss counseling?

I encourage clients to join grief support groups online or in person, whichever is available. The main goal is to ensure the client is not left feeling alone managing their grief or loss.

What should someone do to prepare for starting grief & loss counseling?

The client is encouraged to prepare for their first grief and loss counseling session by listing the most important memory or feeling about the grief and loss, allowing them to identify the positive memories and confront the painful memories with integrity and understanding.

Starting Grief & loss counseling

What type of counseling is needed when a person cannot get over the grief of losing a loved one?

Grief and loss counseling helps people grieve difficult losses including the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, or the end of a relationship. It helps people navigate their grief process and eventually accept, understand, and move forward from their loss. Thriveworks grief therapists in Durham, NC have specific experience, training, and skills that enable them to best support grieving individuals.

How does grief and loss counseling work?

Grief and loss counseling isn’t one-size-fits-all, but it involves sharing about your loss and then working with your counselor to acknowledge and accept your new reality in its wake. Your provider at Thriveworks in Durham, NC will design your treatment plan around your unique needs and goals for therapy, applying the counseling techniques that best support them.

Signs I should seek grief counseling

If you have recently experienced an event like the death of a loved one, a breakup or divorce, the loss of a job, or another major life change, then you may want to seek grief and loss counseling. Grief can be caused by many experiences and events, so if you feel that you are having trouble moving on from a certain event or find that it is still impacting your life and functioning, grief and loss counseling can help you process it more effectively so that you can move on and once again find fulfillment and satisfaction in your life.

What counseling theory is best for grief?

There are many counseling theories for treating grief, one of the most frequently used being the dual process model of grief which helps people acknowledge who or what they’ve lost through rumination while also adjusting to the new roles and identities that this loss has now placed on them. There are also many commonly used therapy approaches used in grief and loss counseling, including Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and traumatic grief therapy.

Is grief counseling conducted in person or online?

Grief & loss counseling at Thriveworks is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.

How long does grief counseling last?

For many, grief and loss counseling lasts for about 6 months. For others, it may last shorter or longer, depending on the severity of their loss and their grief.

Need more help deciding?

Grief and Bereavement Counseling – Therapists and Counselors in Durham

Sometimes when we’ve suffered a loss, we struggle to get through it. We find ourselves struggling more and more each day, becoming more and more isolated and wondering if we’ll ever feel “normal” again. If that describes you, Durham Grief Counseling wants you to know there is help to heal.

Asking for help can be very hard especially when dealing with grief and loss. There is often an expectation that people will automatically reach out to help. Instead, when there has been a loss, friends and loved ones often back away, not knowing what to say or do. We may also fear being judged as weak because we can’t just “get over it.” The truth is, grieving is hard and sometimes we are just not equipped to deal with the struggle. This is when grief counseling can come in handy–if you’ve suffered from a difficult loss, consider scheduling a grief counseling appointment at Thriveworks Durham. We’re here to help.

When to Ask for Help

People seek grief counseling for lots of reasons. For some, counseling offers a safe place to talk about their feelings. For others, counseling can help them develop skills they may need to better cope with the loss. Some reasons to seek grief counseling might be:

  • Your depression is persistent and prevents you from carrying out day-to-day activities such as going to work or school, bathing, routine chores
  • You are using alcohol or medications more often to cope with your feelings
  • You are not eating or sleeping well
  • You are isolating yourself and avoiding social contacts more frequently
  • You have experienced multiple losses in a short period of time
  • You have thoughts of death or dying
  • You feel “stuck” and often wonder whether you’ll ever feel “normal” again
  • You have intrusive thoughts of your lost loved one that are distressing

Scheduling Grief Counseling at Thriveworks Durham

Whether you just need a little extra support or you are struggling to get through the day, the counselors at Thriveworks Counseling in Durham, NC can help. Our experienced counselors and psychologists understand how difficult a loss can be and are ready to assist you in your journey to healing. Plus, we offer many benefits to our clients, including same-week appointments, evening and weekend options, in-person and online care, most major insurances accepted, and more.

If you have questions about how counseling can help or to schedule your confidential appointment, please call Thriveworks in Durham today.

Pricing & insurance

Our therapists accept most major insurances. We accept 585+ insurance plans, and offer self-pay options, too.
Learn more about pricing for therapy and counseling services at Thriveworks.

Our Durham therapists and counselors accept 26 insurance plans

  • Aetna

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card)

  • Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina | BCBS

  • Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina | BCBS Medicare Advantage

  • Carelon

  • Caresource

  • Carolina Behavioral Health Alliance (CBHA)

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Cigna | Evernorth EAP

  • Cigna | Evernorth Medicare Advantage

  • Compsych

  • First Health Network

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Self-pay costs at Durham
Talk therapy

Talk therapy

Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Talk therapy

Psychiatry

Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Hear from our clients

4.8 Thriveworks Durham reviews are collected through Thriveworks.com.
★★★★★
Mindi Perry has extensive education, experience, techniques, etc. Mindi was my supervisor a few years ago. She would help me as we did Family Therapy and I was learning from her. I never left a session without being amazed. She cares deeply for the well-being of others, she does not judge, and she is the best listener I have ever met! She is truly authentic and genuine which is why you will feel completely at ease within moments of meeting her. She’s kind and funny but not at anyone’s expense. Simply put, she’s just a great human. You will be glad you have her in your corner.
Read more Mindi Perry has extensive education, experience, techniques, etc. Mindi was my supervisor a few years ago. She would help me as we did Family Therapy and I was learning from her. I never left a session without being amazed. She cares deeply for the well-being of others, she does not judge, and she is the best listener I have ever met! She is truly authentic and genuine which is why you will feel completely at ease within moments of meeting her. She’s kind and funny but not at anyone’s expense. Simply put, she’s just a great human. You will be glad you have her in your corner.
Durham Nov 2021
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I worked with Abena Bediako as a Victim Advocate when she was the contract CIT clinician at our local police department. She is very knowledgeable in every aspect of therapy and crisis intervention. She is tremendously receptive to your needs and ideas, and always provides great insights when problem solving. Abena is very easy to work with and always encouraged my creativity in developing community outreach projects that addressed the needs of special populations within our community. Abena is a wonderful person to work with and makes you comfortable in addressing problems by encouraging you to be part of the solution.
Read more I worked with Abena Bediako as a Victim Advocate when she was the contract CIT clinician at our local police department. She is very knowledgeable in every aspect of therapy and crisis intervention. She is tremendously receptive to your needs and ideas, and always provides great insights when problem solving. Abena is very easy to work with and always encouraged my creativity in developing community outreach projects that addressed the needs of special populations within our community. Abena is a wonderful person to work with and makes you comfortable in addressing problems by encouraging you to be part of the solution.
Durham Sep 2021
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Madina has been so helpful to me in working through anxiety! She’s very straightforward, and has allowed me to see patterns that have really impacted how I’m living in the world, and to start to challenge them. I can honestly say that I have changed more in the year I’ve been seeing her than in decades of previous therapy experiences. She is an exceptional mental health professional!
Read more Madina has been so helpful to me in working through anxiety! She’s very straightforward, and has allowed me to see patterns that have really impacted how I’m living in the world, and to start to challenge them. I can honestly say that I have changed more in the year I’ve been seeing her than in decades of previous therapy experiences. She is an exceptional mental health professional!
Durham Jul 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Anthony has been the most helpful counselor I’ve met. I’d definitely refer friends and family to him.
Read more Anthony has been the most helpful counselor I’ve met. I’d definitely refer friends and family to him.
Durham Dec 2019
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Dr. Lundy proved to be everything I had heard about her abilities to connect, relate and counsel individuals who had been broken during life's journey. She maintained her professionalism throughout our sessions even when I was a total wreck. She was a Godsend and I thank her for all she has done to help me.
Read more Dr. Lundy proved to be everything I had heard about her abilities to connect, relate and counsel individuals who had been broken during life's journey. She maintained her professionalism throughout our sessions even when I was a total wreck. She was a Godsend and I thank her for all she has done to help me.
Durham Sep 2019
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have had the pleasure of working alongside Giles Christman. Giles is an outstanding therapist, which his clients can attest to- but what I'd like to provide feedback on is what clients don't see. Giles goes above and beyond to identify resources for each client's need(s), including assisting the client in overcoming any barriers in accessing those resources. Giles exemplifies a holistic, compassionate therapist- I highly recommend him to assist you on your wellness journey.
Read more I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have had the pleasure of working alongside Giles Christman. Giles is an outstanding therapist, which his clients can attest to- but what I'd like to provide feedback on is what clients don't see. Giles goes above and beyond to identify resources for each client's need(s), including assisting the client in overcoming any barriers in accessing those resources. Giles exemplifies a holistic, compassionate therapist- I highly recommend him to assist you on your wellness journey.
Durham Sep 2019
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I have been speaking with Dulcie for a few months now and i have found her advice and coaching to be extremely helpful. Since I have started working with Dulcie i have found myself to be able to identify situations and reasonably work through them in a better manner. I would recommend her services to anyone in need of life guidance.
Read more I have been speaking with Dulcie for a few months now and i have found her advice and coaching to be extremely helpful. Since I have started working with Dulcie i have found myself to be able to identify situations and reasonably work through them in a better manner. I would recommend her services to anyone in need of life guidance.
Durham Jul 2019
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
"Dr. Dee" listened and helped me through what I felt was the most difficult time in my life...divorce. Her guidance and words of encouragement inspired me to continue to be strong and move forward. Thanks for much Dr. Dee!
Read more "Dr. Dee" listened and helped me through what I felt was the most difficult time in my life...divorce. Her guidance and words of encouragement inspired me to continue to be strong and move forward. Thanks for much Dr. Dee!
Durham Jul 2019
Review left on Thriveworks.com

Where to find us

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Durham is located off Fayetteville Road, in the Sutton Station shopping center, next to Regional Pediatrics. We currently share a building with Nantucket Grill and Bela Trio Day Spa. Parking is located in front of the building and around the complex.

Phone number

(919) 642-4903

Languages spoken by NC providers

  • English
Friday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Saturday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 9:00pm

Shown in ET

Friday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Saturday 7:00am - 6:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Monday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Tuesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Wednesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Thursday 7:00am - 9:30pm

Shown in ET

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