Grief Counseling in Chicago: Compassionate Support When You Need It Most

You Don’t Have to Navigate Loss Alone

Grief doesn’t follow a timeline. It doesn’t ask permission. And it certainly doesn’t care about your schedule, your responsibilities, or what anyone else thinks you “should” be feeling right now.

Whether you’re mourning the death of someone you love, processing a traumatic loss, or grieving something others don’t understand—your pain is real. Your grief matters. And you deserve support that meets you exactly where you are.

At 2nd Story Counseling in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood, our grief therapists understand that loss changes you. We’re here to help you navigate that change with compassion, skill, and without judgment about how you “should” be grieving.

Call 773-528-1777 to speak with a grief counselor, or contact us online. We respond within 24 hours and can often schedule your first session within the same week.

What is Grief Counseling?

Grief counseling is specialized therapy that helps you process the emotional, physical, psychological, and spiritual impact of loss. Unlike general therapy, grief counseling focuses specifically on helping you:

• Process complex emotions like sadness, anger, guilt, relief, confusion, or numbness
• Understand your grief without judgment about how you’re “supposed” to feel
• Develop healthy coping strategies that work for your unique situation
• Navigate relationships with family and friends who may not understand your grief
• Find meaning and purpose as you adjust to life after loss
• Honor your loss while gradually re-engaging with life

Grief counseling doesn’t rush you through stages or pressure you to “move on.” Instead, it provides a safe, compassionate space to feel what you feel, understand what you’re experiencing, and find your own path forward.

Types of Grief We Support

Death of a Loved One

Whether you’ve lost a parent, spouse, partner, child, sibling, friend, or other loved one, the pain of that absence can feel unbearable. Our grief therapists help you process the complex emotions that come with bereavement—from deep sadness to unexpected relief, from anger to gratitude, and everything in between.

Complicated Grief

Sometimes grief doesn’t ease with time. If you’re experiencing prolonged, intense grief that interferes with daily functioning months or years after your loss, you may be dealing with complicated grief (also called prolonged grief disorder). Our therapists are trained in specialized approaches for complicated grief that can help you find relief when standard grief support hasn’t been enough.

Traumatic Loss

When loss happens suddenly, violently, or in traumatic circumstances—accidents, homicide, overdose, or other sudden deaths—grief becomes intertwined with trauma. Our therapists understand how traumatic loss affects both your grief process and your nervous system, and we use trauma-informed approaches to help you heal from both.

Disenfranchised Grief

Some losses aren’t acknowledged or validated by others, yet they hurt just as deeply. This includes:

• Miscarriage, stillbirth, or pregnancy loss
• Estrangement from family members
• Loss of a relationship that others didn’t know about
• Job loss or career changes
• Loss of health, mobility, or independence
• Loss of a former self or identity

If people around you minimize your grief or don’t understand why you’re struggling, we provide the validation and support you deserve. Your grief is real, even if others don’t see it.

Pet Loss

The death of a beloved pet can be devastating. If you’re grieving a companion animal, we understand that this loss is profound and deserves to be honored. Learn more about our specialized pet loss counseling in Chicago.

Multiple Losses

When you’re dealing with more than one significant loss—whether simultaneously or in quick succession—grief can feel overwhelming and compounded. Our therapists help you process multiple losses without minimizing any of them.

First Responders & Professionals

If you’re a first responder, healthcare worker, or other professional who encounters death and loss as part of your work, you may be dealing with cumulative grief, compassion fatigue, or trauma. Learn more about our specialized support for first responders in Chicago.

Our Approach to Grief Counseling

At 2nd Story Counseling, we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to grief. Your loss is unique. Your relationship was unique. Your grief is unique. We tailor our therapy to meet you exactly where you are.

Our grief therapists are trained in specialized approaches including:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Grief

CBT helps you identify and gently challenge thought patterns that may be keeping you stuck in your grief. This approach is particularly helpful if you’re struggling with guilt, self-blame, or beliefs about what you “should” have done differently.

Mindfulness-Based Grief Therapy

Mindfulness techniques help you be present with your grief without being overwhelmed by it. You’ll learn to observe your emotions, notice where grief shows up in your body, and develop compassion for yourself as you grieve.

“He helped me to observe my grief and feel it in my body. I learned I didn’t have to push it away or be afraid of it.”
— Client in Chicago’s Andersonville neighborhood

Existential Therapy for Loss

Loss often triggers profound questions about meaning, purpose, mortality, and what matters. Existential therapy provides space to explore these big questions and find meaning in your grief journey.

Relational Therapy for Grief

Your relationship with the person you lost doesn’t end with death—it transforms. Relational approaches help you understand your continuing bond with your loved one and how that relationship continues to shape who you are. Learn more about our relational therapy approach.

Grief-Specific Therapeutic Approaches

Our therapists are trained in specialized grief therapy models that have been specifically developed for bereavement and loss, ensuring you receive evidence-based treatment designed for exactly what you’re experiencing.

“She helped me process my grief and bring meaning to what was happening. I didn’t think I’d ever feel okay again, but slowly I did.”
— Client in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood

Signs You May Benefit from Grief Counseling

There’s no “wrong” time to seek support for grief. However, grief counseling may be especially helpful if you’re experiencing:

• Intense, prolonged sadness or despair that doesn’t ease over weeks or months
• Difficulty functioning in daily life—work, relationships, self-care feel impossible
• Overwhelming guilt or self-blame about the loss or what you “should have” done
• Anger that feels out of control or is damaging your relationships
• Numbness or disconnection from yourself, others, or life in general
• Physical symptoms like sleep problems, appetite changes, fatigue, or unexplained pain
• Avoidance of reminders of your loss that keeps you from living your life
• Intrusive thoughts or images about the death or loss
• Feeling stuck in your grief without any sense of movement or change
• Thoughts of self-harm or wishing you had died too
• Isolation from people who care about you
• Substance use to cope with grief

You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from grief counseling. If grief is impacting your life in any way, support is available.

“He helped me to accept my grief and not try to push it away. That made all the difference.”
— Client in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood

What to Expect in Grief Counseling

Your First Session

In your first grief counseling session, your therapist will:

• Listen to your story and learn about your loss
• Understand what you’re experiencing right now—emotions, thoughts, physical sensations
• Learn about your relationship with the person you lost
• Discuss what’s been helpful (or unhelpful) so far
• Talk about what you’re hoping to gain from therapy
• Answer any questions you have about the process

You won’t be pressured to share more than you’re ready to share. This is your time, your pace, your process.

Ongoing Sessions

In subsequent sessions, your therapist will work with you to:

• Process your emotions in a safe, nonjudgmental space
• Develop coping strategies for difficult moments, triggers, and anniversaries
• Explore your continuing bond with the person you lost
• Address specific challenges like guilt, anger, numbness, or complicated family dynamics
• Navigate milestones and transitions without your loved one
• Gradually re-engage with life in ways that feel right for you
• Find meaning and purpose as you adjust to life after loss

How Long Does Grief Counseling Take?

There’s no set timeline for grief counseling. Some people find relief and new coping skills in a few sessions. Others benefit from ongoing support over months or years, especially with complicated grief or multiple losses.

You and your therapist will regularly check in about your progress and what feels most helpful. Grief counseling continues as long as it’s serving you.

Why Choose 2nd Story Counseling for Grief Therapy in Chicago?

Specialized Grief Training

Our therapists have specialized training in grief and bereavement counseling. We’re not generalists who occasionally see grief clients—this is an area of focused expertise.

Trauma-Informed Approach

We understand that traumatic loss requires specialized care. Our therapists are trained in trauma-informed approaches that address both grief and trauma together.

Compassionate, Nonjudgmental Support

We won’t tell you how you “should” grieve or pressure you to “move through the stages.” Your grief is yours. We’re here to support you exactly as you are.

Fast Response Times

When you’re in pain, you shouldn’t have to wait weeks to be seen. We respond to inquiries within 24 hours and work to schedule your first session within the same week or the following week, depending on availability.

Flexible Options: In-Person and Virtual

We offer both in-person grief counseling at our Lakeview office near Wrigley Field and secure telehealth sessions from the privacy of your home. Choose what works best for you.

Convenient Lakeview Location

Our counseling offices are located in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood at Park Place Tower, near the intersection of Pinegrove and Irving Park Road, just blocks from Wrigley Field. Easily accessible from:

• Lakeview
• Lincoln Park
• Boystown
• Andersonville
• Uptown
• Wrigleyville
• Roscoe Village
• North Center

Frequently Asked Questions About Grief Counseling

Is grief counseling covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans cover grief counseling under mental health benefits, though coverage varies by plan. We can provide you with the information you need to submit claims to your insurance company. Contact us at 773-528-1777 to discuss your specific situation.

How is grief counseling different from regular therapy?

Grief counseling focuses specifically on helping you process loss and adjust to life after that loss. While general therapy addresses a broad range of mental health concerns, grief counseling is specialized, targeted support for bereavement and loss.

Do I need grief counseling, or will time heal my grief?

Grief often does ease naturally over time for many people. However, if your grief is intense, prolonged, interfering with daily life, or causing significant distress, professional support can help. You don’t have to suffer alone while waiting to see if time helps.

What if I start crying in session?

Tears are welcome here. Grief is painful, and crying is a natural response to pain. Your therapist will provide tissues, compassion, and a safe space for whatever emotions arise. There’s no need to hold back or apologize.

Is it too soon (or too late) to start grief counseling?

There’s no wrong time to seek support. Some people benefit from grief counseling immediately after a loss. Others seek help months or years later when they realize their grief isn’t easing or when a new loss brings up old grief. Whenever you’re ready, support is available.

What if my family thinks I should be “over it” by now?

Grief doesn’t follow other people’s timelines. Your therapist understands this and will support you without judgment about how long you’ve been grieving. We can also help you navigate relationships with family members who don’t understand your grief process.

Can grief counseling help with physical symptoms?

Yes. Grief affects your body as well as your emotions. Many people experience sleep problems, appetite changes, fatigue, headaches, body aches, or other physical symptoms with grief. Grief counseling can help you address these symptoms and develop strategies to care for your physical health while grieving.

Do you offer grief support groups?

We primarily offer individual grief counseling, which allows for personalized, focused support for your unique situation. Contact us to discuss whether individual grief therapy or another format would best serve your needs.

Location & Contact Information

2nd Story Counseling
Park Place Tower
Lakeview, Chicago
Near Pinegrove and Irving Park Road
Blocks from Wrigley Field

Phone: 773-528-1777
Email: Contact us online

Services: In-person and virtual/telehealth grief counseling sessions available

Response Time: We respond to inquiries within 24 hours and work to schedule your first session within the same week or the following week.

You Don’t Have to Navigate Grief Alone

Loss changes everything. The world looks different. You feel different. Nothing is quite the same.

But you don’t have to figure out how to live with this loss by yourself. Our grief counselors in Chicago are here to walk alongside you—not to rush you through stages or tell you how to grieve, but to provide compassionate support as you find your own way forward.

Grief may always be part of your story. But with support, it doesn’t have to define your entire story.

Call 773-528-1777 or contact us online to schedule grief counseling in Chicago.

Related Services:
Pet Loss Counseling Chicago
First Responder Support
Relational Therapy Chicago
Depression Therapy Chicago