The Guide to Finding the Help You Need
When you’re dealing with loss in your life, grief can affect you in ways that you didn’t expect. Maybe you’re angry, frustrated or feeling out of control. Maybe you’re relieved or even joyful and feeling guilt related to those feelings. Maybe you’re numb. Whatever it is, there is help available. Whether you’re more comfortable in a 1:1 session with an in-person therapist, or an online support group, you can find what you need with just a few clicks. In order to make the process even easier for you, I’ve created this guide to point you in the right direction.
Therapy & Support Group Location Services
If your preference is an in-person support group, therapist, or services that accept your insurance you’ll likely be most successful using one of these location services.
| Name | Adults | Children | Groups | More Info |
| 211UnitedWay | Yes | Yes | Yes | Dial 211 from your phone or visit them online to use their easy search feature and locate licensed therapists and support groups in your area. |
| Center for Loss | Yes | Yes | Yes | Center for Loss offers a database of 181 grief counselors from around the country as well as various resources for dealing with your own grief and the grief of a loved one. |
| PsychologyToday | Yes | Yes | Yes | PsychologyToday offers an easy-to-navigate therapy search tool that helps in locating therapists, psychiatrists, and treatment centers near you. |
Online Grief Counseling
Online grief counseling has become more and more popular with those who are comfortable with technology and prefer to receive supportive services from the comfort of their home. While not entirely out of the question, insurance isn’t likely to pay for most of these types of services, but they are sometimes free and often affordable.
| Name | Adults | Children | Groups | Cost | Insurance Accepted | More Info |
| BetterHelp | Yes | Yes | Yes | $60-$90 Weekly | No | BetterHelp offers real-time 24/7 messaging with a licensed therapist. Responses may not always be immediate, but telephone, video and chat sessions are available. You may remain anonymous if you’d like. Bonus: You can gift memberships to those who need it. |
| TalkSpace | Yes | Ages 13-17 | Yes | $276 + Monthly | Yes, Some | TalkSpace is an online platform offering individual and couples therapy as well as Psychiatry. Some insurances are accepted, but you’ll need to check their listing before you commit. Telephone, video and messaging options available. |
| SynergyETherapy | Yes | Yes (Teens) | Yes | $50-$200 per session | Yes, network specific | While it is limited to certain states at this time, SynergyETherapy still deserves a place on the list. This is a great option for those who need assistance during off-hours (nights and weekends), and for loved ones hoping to purchase a gift card for someone they love. |
Online Grief Support & Resources
If you’re not quite ready for 1:1 sessions or a group setting, accessing some of the resources and courses offered through these organizations can assist you in your healing journey. While not a substitute for a licensed therapist, the resources are helpful and can provide comfort.
| Name | Adults | Children | Groups | Cost | Insurance Accepted | More Info |
| GriefShare | Yes | Yes | Yes | Free | N/A | GriefShare is an online community offering resources and support to anyone dealing with loss. You can receive daily email encouragement, locate a grief support group in your area (throughout the US, Canada and 10 other countries) and even start a grief support group in your area. Online resources for dealing with your grief are also available. |
| WhatsYourGrief | Yes | Yes | No | $0-$50 | No | WhatsYourGrief is a resource center for those who are grieving or supporting a loved one as they grieve. Free resources and grief sharing activities are available, as well as paid courses to learn how to deal with grief through channels such as art, photography or journaling. |
Each grief journey is unique, but regardless of what yours may look like, there is help available and it begins with the very first step (reaching out). Whether you’re hoping to attend a support group, or simply access resources in one of the online options, I hope this list is helpful to you during this difficult time.