Prolonged and Complicated Grief and Loss Counseling, Treatment, and Therapy Programs

Emotional experiences, like grief, can profoundly impact our daily life. For some, this can be exasperated by other mental health concerns. Residential treatment with A Mission For Michael (AMFM) offers comprehensive and compassionate care for moderate to severe mental health concerns. Our high-end facilities can be found in California, Washington, and Virginia.

With an AMFM Mental Health Treatment Center, you can receive treatment for a range of mental health disorders, including dual-diagnosis conditions. Our integrative treatment centers can provide you with bereavement support for the grief and loss that you’ve experienced. Coping with loss can be challenging, especially since each loss affects us differently. Continue reading to learn what to expect during the mourning process, and how a therapy clinic can support you during this difficult time.

depressed woman laying on couch upset.

What is Complicated Grief?

Complicated grief disorder is a mental health condition known for intense and persistent grief, commonly after the loss of a loved one. You may find yourself struggling to accept the loss and to find a sense of purpose in your life. Complicated grief can lead to feelings of anger, guilt, and hopelessness.

Other symptoms associated with complicated grief include sleep disturbances, loss of appetite, and isolation. Individuals who have a higher risk of developing complicated grief include those having more than one significant loss, a history of mood disorders like anxiety and depression, and the nature of the loss. Losses that are sudden, unexpected, or violent are more likely to lead to complicated grief.

For those who are struggling to deal with grief, professional support can be impactful. Behavioral health centers can provide grief counseling, support groups, psychoeducation and, in some cases, medication management services. If you have been struggling with the loss of a loved one, we encourage you to dial (866)478-4383 to learn about available complicated grief treatment options.

What is Prolonged Grief?

Prolonged grief disorder is known for feelings of intense longing for a loved one, or preoccupation, for at least a year since their death. You may find yourself struggling with your identity, avoiding reminders of your loved one, and experiencing intense emotional pain like anger, bitterness, and sorrow.

Those struggling with prolonged grief disorder often struggle to return to their typical activities, like seeing friends, engaging in hobbies, and planning for the future. Others experience emotional numbness or lack of emotional responses. It is not uncommon to struggle to find meaning in your life, as well.

Prolonged grief is a clinical diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). This means that it is classified as a mental health disorder. The American Psychological Association reported that seven to ten percent of adults dealing with grief experience prolonged grief disorder. This condition also affects between five and ten percent of children and adolescents.

Find out about our free assessments and admissions process

We accept most major insurance providers and can check your coverage levels for you.

If we are not an appropriate provider for care, we will assist in finding a care provider that can help. 

Does Private Health Insurance Cover Grief and Loss Therapy and Treatment Near Me?

Private health insurance companies may cover psychological treatment for grief and loss. Your coverage is dependent on the details of your plan and the severity of distress caused by grief and loss. Some insurance providers require prior authorization for treatment or medical necessity, or they may impose limitations or exclusions on things like treatment duration.

Additionally, your plan may be subject to out-of-pocket expenses like copayments, deductibles, and premiums. We encourage you to complete our AMFM insurance verification form to learn more about the details of your coverage options for addressing grief and loss at specialty treatment centers.

Which Health Insurance Providers Cover Grief and Loss Therapy and Treatment?

Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, ComPsych, First Health Network, Humana, Kaiser, and UHC are examples of popular health insurance companies that may provide for complicated grief and prolonged grief disorder treatment. These companies commonly offer a range of products and services, affecting their coverage rates and your out-of-pocket expenses.

Your insurance coverage may include inpatient and outpatient treatment centers offering therapy, counseling, and grief support groups. We encourage you to verify your coverage to better understand your treatment options. Dial (866)478-4383 today to learn more.

Are There Free and Confidential Grief and Loss Assessments Near Me?

Free and confidential grief and loss assessments are available with A Mission For Michael (AMFM). Our admission counselors can walk you through our assessment, which allows us to provide you with a personalized treatment option. This can include focusing on your persistent feelings of grief and overall functioning.

There may be additional assessments available online, though we encourage you to err on the side of caution. A key detail of our assessments is that they are conducted, reviewed, and interpreted by mental health professionals. Mental health conditions are often complex and individualized, which can lead to misrepresentations in generic assessments. Call us today to get started.

Check Your Insurance Coverage For Mental Health Treatment

Insurance can be complicated but we are here to help. AMFM has over a decade of experience in the mental health field and is in-network with many large insurance providers. By using our form below, we can quickly determine if you are in-network at one of our facilities. Your insurance provider will not be notified or contacted by completing this form and the process is 100% confidential.

By submitting this form you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy and give my express written consent for AMFM Healthcare to contact me at the number provided above, even if this number is a wireless number or if I am presently listed on a Do Not Call list.

I understand that I may be contacted by telephone, email, text message or mail regarding my disability benefit case options and that I may be called using automatic dialing equipment. Message and data rates may apply. My consent does not require purchase. Message frequency varies. Text HELP for help. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.

Disclaimer

Understanding Common Causes of Grief and Loss

Grief is an individualized experience that looks different for everyone. Several experiences can cause grieving, some of which do not include the experience of losing someone. The loss you experience can have an impact on the challenges that arise during the healing process and the approaches used in grief counseling. The following are common causes of grief and loss.

Identity Struggles and Traumatic Experiences

Trauma that leads to a loss of self can initiate the grieving process. You may find yourself struggling with the loss of your identity and knowing who you are. Unexpected life changes, including job loss and personal failures, can also lead to emotional distress.

Transformations in Personal Relationships

The loss of relationships can cause grief, as well. This includes divorce, break-ups, and estranged connections. You may find yourself grieving the loss of plans, which can create a sense of uncertainty and challenges in your identity or future. Though this is not a typical loss associated with grief, it often requires emotional healing.

Educational Challenges and Social Stress

Individuals who are unable to meet academic goals may experience struggles with their self-worth. This can include not receiving the grades you expected, failing required classes, or not getting into schools you had planned on. You may find that social pressures in academic settings contribute to or worsen your emotional distress.

Navigating Major Life Changes

You may find yourself feeling a sense of loss with major life changes. This includes moving to a new cit, or a significant change in your lifestyle. Life transitions like having children and retirement can evoke a strong emotional reaction. You may struggle with your identity and creating new meaning in your life.

Grieving the Loss of a Loved One or Peer

We can experience grief after the death of a friend, peer, or loved one. This is the most recognized form of grief. The effect of losses can lead to feelings of sadness, anger, and guilt. Professional support can help you navigate emotional bereavement and the changes that occur after a loss.

Adjustments in Family Dynamics

Significant changes within family dynamics like divorce, remarriage, blended families, and new family roles can lead to shifts in family dynamics. These changes can be significant in some situations and cause emotional distress. Some experience hardships adjusting to the changes that occur. Mental health treatment centers can help you adjust to these transitions in life.

Prolonged and Complicated Grief and Loss Therapy Near Me

A Mission For Michael (AMFM) has multiple residential treatment facilities that offer care for mental health disorders, including bereavement support. We understand that healing from a loss is a personalized experience, and we’re here to help you process grief and find a path forward. Dial (866)478-4383 today to learn about available grief therapy programs.

California

Grief and Loss Treatment Program in California

AMFM has holistic treatment centers in San Diego and Orange County that provide comprehensive treatment for moderate to severe mental health distress. This can incorporate coping with bereavement for those struggling with grief and loss. These locations can provide you with around-the-clock support focused on loss recovery and healing.

Virginia

Grief and Loss Treatment Program in Virginia

Located in Virginia, AMFM has multiple inpatient treatment centers offering personalized care for mental health challenges, including grief and loss. Our clinical team will provide you with support and encouragement during the grieving process, allowing you to begin healing from loss. Reach out today to learn about how we can support you in processing grief.

Washington

Grief and Loss Treatment Program in Washington

Our Seattle, Washington, healthcare facility can provide you with whole-person care for mental health disorders and dealing with grief. Our compassionate staff can support you in the mourning process, as you begin healing from loss. Common treatment options include individual therapy, group therapy, and psychoeducation.

General Inquiry Form

Complete the form below to receive a prompt call back from a member of our experienced and compassionate admissions staff. All communication is 100% confidential.

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By submitting this form you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy and give my express written consent for AMFM Healthcare to contact me at the number provided above, even if this number is a wireless number or if I am presently listed on a Do Not Call list. I understand that I may be contacted by telephone, email, text message or mail regarding my disability benefit case options and that I may be called using automatic dialing equipment. Message and data rates may apply. My consent does not require purchase. Message frequency varies. Text HELP for help. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.

Disclaimer

What is the Assessment Process for Complicated and Prolonged Grief Disorder Treatment?

For many, understanding what to expect during the admission process can reduce some of the worry or fear associated with seeking complicated and prolonged grief disorder treatment. To help you understand what to expect, the following outlines common steps of the admission process for psychological treatment for grief and loss.

First Consultation

The initial step is your first consultation. The goal of your first consultation is to build rapport, identify your current symptoms and goals, and determine if the available treatment is appropriate for your needs. Recovery centers may conduct your first consultation over the phone, while others do it in person.

Questionnaires and Clinical Interviews

Clinical interviews are completed by mental health professionals, who can use questionnaires and other assessments to understand the intensity of your grief and other emotional concerns. This can focus on exploring the impact that grief and loss have on your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

Assessment of Symptomatology

Mental health professionals focus on identifying your specific symptoms and evaluating their severity. This can include persistent sadness, yearning, or preoccupation with the loss. The information gathered can help professionals differentiate normal grief from complicated grief responses. This information is later used to develop your treatment plan.

Identifying Functional Impacts

A component of your assessment is understanding how your grief affects your day-to-day life. This can include your routine, relationships, and ability to manage everyday tasks. You may spend time talking about barriers that keep you from managing your responsibilities, like sadness, fatigue, and other challenges associated with grief and loss.

Ruling Out Other Conditions

Time will be spent screening for mental health disorders that are known to have similar symptoms, such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. This is an important step because it ensures that you’re receiving the proper treatment. This information can also help your clinical team explore appropriate diagnoses.

Clinical Judgment and Diagnosis

Your mental health provider will then gather all the information they learned to determine if your grieving experience meets diagnostic criteria. They will be looking at emotional, behavioral, and functional factors when they are making their decision. The DSM is a clinical resource that outlines each mental health disorder and its symptoms used by mental health professionals.

Begin Treatment Planning

Lastly, your clinical team will create your individualized treatment plan. This is heavily influenced by the information learned during your evaluation to ensure that you receive evidence-based care. Professionals will review available grief therapy options, your goals, and ideal outcomes for treatment.

Request A Call Back

Complete the form below to receive a prompt call back from a member of our experienced and compassionate admissions staff. All communication is 100% confidential.

"*" indicates required fields

By submitting this form you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy and give my express written consent for AMFM Healthcare to contact me at the number provided above, even if this number is a wireless number or if I am presently listed on a Do Not Call list. I understand that I may be contacted by telephone, email, text message or mail regarding my disability benefit case options and that I may be called using automatic dialing equipment. Message and data rates may apply. My consent does not require purchase. Message frequency varies. Text HELP for help. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.

Disclaimer

What Techniques are Used for Grief and Loss Therapy and Interventions?

Techniques of grief therapy can vary based on the symptoms and challenges that you’re experiencing. Individualized care is important because grief is a very personal experience. Your treatment can incorporate the use of more than one therapeutic approach and is not limited to the following:

Grief Counseling

Grief counseling offers a supportive and compassionate space for you to process grief and loss. Many find themselves feeling more comfortable in private settings compared to group therapy. Your sessions will focus on exploring your grief, normalizing your emotional reactions and experiences, and helping you with emotional healing.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a theoretical approach that can help you work towards accepting your loss and finding value-driven actions you can engage in. This approach incorporates mindfulness and can help you build psychological flexibility. ACT can be used in both inpatient and outpatient wellness centers.

Narrative Therapy

Narrative therapy is a commonly used approach for those processing grief and loss. This therapeutic approach can help you reframe your story. When you shift your perspective on your loss, you may find changes to the struggles you’ve been experiencing with your identity.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most commonly used therapeutic approaches for mental health disorders. CBT can help you identify, and work to modify, automatic beliefs that are contributing to your complicated grief. Sessions can include cognitive restructuring and helping you learn coping strategies for grief and loss.

Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT)

Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT) is a therapeutic approach that is used as a prolonged grief and complicated grief treatment option. This approach combines the use of exposure therapy, cognitive restructuring, and behavioral strategies. This is a structured approach that may be offered in inpatient and outpatient mental health and dual-diagnosis treatment centers to address grief and loss.

Group Therapy

Group therapy and grief support groups are used to provide peer support. This can be effective for those who have been experiencing isolation as they grieve and would benefit from social connection with others who have had similar experiences with grief. These groups allow you to share your experience and for others to provide you with support and validation.

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) is another therapeutic approach that can be used in grief treatment. This approach focuses on helping you strengthen your current relationships and resolving interpersonal conflict. IPT can be used to address the impact that grief has had on your relationships, allowing you to move forward in the healing process.

How Much Do Grief and Loss Therapy and Counseling Programs Cost Without Health Insurance Coverage?

Therapy for grief and loss can vary in cost based on the care you receive. Those who are experiencing moderate to severe psychological distress may require an inpatient medical treatment center that provides intensive care. These programs can range from $500 to $2,000 per day, based on the details of your treatment.

Outpatient treatment centers tend to offer affordable treatment options, including individual group counseling and grief support groups. Individual therapy sessions typically cost between $100 to $200 per session, with group treatment being a more affordable treatment option. Those who receive psychiatric care typically have additional costs, including out-of-pocket expenses for prescribed medications.

Details that affect treatment costs include the level of care you receive, available amenities, duration of care, location of treatment, and the experience of your clinicians. While these prices can be overwhelming, treatment providers often offer payment options to reduce some of your financial concerns. This can include payment plans, sliding scale fees, and scholarships. Contact AMFM today to learn more about different ways to pay for treatment.

  • An estimated seven to ten percent of bereaved adults develop symptoms associated with prolonged grief disorder.
  • There are differences between major depression and acute grief. This includes experiencing guilt and blame, avoiding situations because of your loss, and experiencing pangs of emotions when you are reminded of your loss.
  • Prolonged grief can lead to catastrophizing the future, judging your grieving experience, and second-guessing yourself. Changes or an increase in substance use can also occur, in an attempt to cope with grief and loss. 
  • Often, acute grief does not require bereavement treatment, though the symptoms can cause significant distress.
  • Common dual-diagnosis conditions that are seen alongside prolonged grief disorder include PTSD, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.