Dr. Lisa Taylor • January 20, 2025

Understanding Grief: Types, Challenges, and the Value of Specialized Counseling

Grief is a universal human experience, yet no two people experience it in the same way. While most people associate grief with the loss of a loved one, there are numerous forms of grief that manifest in response to different types of loss—each with its own emotional challenges. In fact, many experts identify up to 16 different types of grief, each requiring a nuanced approach in therapy. Understanding the specific type of grief you’re experiencing is crucial in determining the best treatment.

Yet, despite the complexity of grief, not all mental health providers are adequately trained in grief counseling. This is a vital distinction, as seeking support from a provider who truly understands the multifaceted nature of grief can make all the difference in your healing journey. In this post, we’ll explore the various types of grief and why it’s so important to choose a therapist with specialized expertise in grief counseling.

Types of Grief: More Than Just the Loss of a Loved One

Grief is often associated with bereavement, but it can take many forms depending on the nature of the loss. Below are some of the most recognized types of grief, each requiring its own approach for healing.

Anticipatory Grief

Anticipatory grief occurs before an impending loss. This type of grief is common among caregivers of terminally ill loved ones. Knowing that loss is inevitable, individuals often experience intense emotions even before death occurs.

Complicated Grief

Sometimes called Prolonged Grief Disorder, complicated grief occurs when a person experiences an intense longing or yearning for a lost loved one long after the loss. It can interfere with daily life and may require more focused therapeutic interventions, such as Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT), to facilitate healing.

Disenfranchised Grief

This type of grief occurs when the loss is not recognized or validated by others. For example, grieving a pet, a miscarriage, or the end of a friendship might not be acknowledged by society in the same way as the loss of a family member. Individuals experiencing disenfranchised grief often feel isolated and unsupported.

Cumulative Grief

When someone experiences multiple losses in a short period, they may experience cumulative grief. This overwhelming sense of sorrow can make it harder to process each individual loss.

Ambiguous Grief

Ambiguous grief occurs when the loss is unclear or unresolved, such as when a loved one has dementia or goes missing. There’s no clear endpoint, which makes closure difficult to achieve.

Chronic Grief

Chronic grief refers to a prolonged grieving process that doesn’t ease with time. While it’s normal for grief to be a long process, chronic grief can prevent individuals from moving forward and may require specialized therapy.

Traumatic Grief

This occurs when a loss is sudden, unexpected, or violent, such as a fatal accident or natural disaster. Traumatic grief can also be accompanied by Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which adds an additional layer of complexity.

Absent Grief

Absent grief happens when someone outwardly appears to be unaffected by loss. This can be a form of denial, and though they may seem fine, the individual may experience emotional repercussions down the line.

Collective Grief

This form of grief is experienced by a community, society, or even the world, often in response to large-scale events such as natural disasters, pandemics, or national tragedies.

Exaggerated Grief

Exaggerated grief refers to extreme, intense responses to loss, which might involve panic attacks, phobias, or self-destructive behaviors. In these cases, professional intervention is essential.

Delayed Grief

Some individuals suppress their emotions in the immediate aftermath of a loss, only to experience grief months or even years later. This is known as delayed grief.

Inhibited Grief

Inhibited grief occurs when individuals consciously or unconsciously avoid the grieving process. This type of grief can manifest in physical symptoms such as headaches or fatigue.

Distorted Grief

Distorted grief may lead to anger, hostility, or other exaggerated emotional responses that seem disproportionate to the loss. This grief may require cognitive-behavioral interventions to help clients realign their emotions.

Masked Grief

Masked grief occurs when someone is grieving but does not show any outward signs. Instead, their grief may manifest in other ways, such as through physical complaints or risky behavior.

Secondary Losses

While grieving a loved one, individuals may also grieve the secondary losses that follow, such as financial stability, lifestyle changes, or even a loss of identity.

Developmental Grief

Developmental grief occurs when someone experiences a loss during a significant life transition, such as adolescence or adulthood. This can affect personal growth and may require a therapist who understands the developmental impact of grief.

Why Specialized Grief Counseling Matters

Given the variety of grief types, it’s essential to work with a therapist who has specific training in grief counseling. Many therapists may offer general support for grief, but only those with focused expertise understand the unique challenges of different grief forms and know how to treat them effectively.

Here are a few reasons why specialized training in grief counseling is critical:

Understanding Grief's Complex Nature

Grief isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience. Providers who are specifically trained in grief counseling can recognize which type of grief their client is experiencing and tailor their approach accordingly. For example, Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT) is an evidence-based treatment designed for individuals experiencing prolonged or complicated grief, while Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy (MCP) or Dignity Therapy may be more appropriate for someone facing anticipatory grief in the context of a terminal illness.

Tailored Treatment Plans

A well-trained grief counselor can offer a range of therapeutic techniques, from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to MCP, depending on the needs of the client. Each type of grief may require a different therapeutic approach, and not all therapists are equipped with the necessary skills to address them effectively.

Preventing Misdiagnosis

Misunderstanding grief can lead to a misdiagnosis, such as mistaking prolonged grief for depression. A grief specialist knows how to distinguish between grief and other mental health conditions, ensuring that clients receive the appropriate care.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Provider for Your Grief Journey

Grief can be incredibly isolating, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether you’re dealing with anticipatory grief, ambiguous grief, or the loss of a loved one, it’s crucial to find a therapist who is well-versed in the complexities of grief and can offer the right therapeutic approach for your specific situation. Specialized grief counseling not only helps you process your loss but also provides you with the tools and support needed to rebuild your life in a meaningful way.

References

Bonanno, G. A., & Kaltman, S. (2001). The varieties of grief experience. Clinical Psychology Review, 21(5), 705–734. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0272-7358(00)00062-3

Boss, P. (1999). Ambiguous loss: Learning to live with unresolved grief. Harvard University Press.

Grief Counseling with Jill. (n.d.). Grief is not a one-size-fits-all. Retrieved January 11, 2025, from https://www.jillgriefcounselor.com/blog/grief-is-not-a-one-sized-fits-all

Neimeyer, R. A. (Ed.). (2001). Meaning reconstruction & the experience of loss. American Psychological Association. https://doi.org/10.1037/10397-000

Neria, Y., & Litz, B. T. (2004). Bereavement by traumatic means: The complex synergy of trauma and grief. Journal of Loss & Trauma, 9(1), 73–87. https://doi.org/10.1080/15325020490255322

Talkspace. (n.d.). Types of grief: Understanding the many forms of loss. Retrieved January 11, 2025, from https://www.talkspace.com/blog/types-of-grief/

Thompson, N., & Doka, K. J. (2017). Disenfranchised grief. In Handbook of the sociology of death, grief, and bereavement (pp. 177–190). Routledge.

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Dr. Lisa Taylor

Clinical Psychologist & Health Psychology Specialist

I'm Dr. Lisa Taylor, a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience. I help people navigate anxiety, grief, life transitions, and health challenges with expertise, warmth, and compassion. My approach is evidence-based and tailored to you. Together, we’ll find relief, build resilience, and create a path toward a more fulfilling life.

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What’s the Difference Between a Psychiatrist, Psychologist, and Therapist?

By Lisa Taylor • January 9, 2026

How to Know Which Mental Health Provider Is Right for You If you’re searching for mental health support, you may find yourself wondering whether you should see a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist . These titles are often used interchangeably, but they reflect very different training paths, roles, and areas of focus . Understanding these differences can help you choose the provider who best fits your goals, values, and the type or level of care you’re seeking. Psychiatrist vs Psychologist vs Therapist: Key Differences Explained What Is a Psychiatrist? A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who has completed medical school and a residency in psychiatry. Psychiatrists are licensed physicians who specialize in mental health from a medical perspective. Psychiatrists: prescribe psychiatric medications diagnose mental health conditions evaluate how medications interact with medical conditions and other prescriptions may order or recommend medical testing Some psychiatrists also provide psychotherapy, but in many settings their primary role is medication management , often through shorter appointments (e.g., 15–30 minutes). Research consistently shows that for many conditions, medication combined with psychotherapy can be more effective than either approach alone, which is why psychiatrists often collaborate with psychologists or therapists. What Is a Psychologist? A psychologist holds a doctoral degree in psychology (PhD or PsyD) and is not a medical doctor. Psychologists complete: extensive graduate-level education in psychology thousands of hours of supervised clinical training national and state licensing examinations Psychologists are trained extensively in: psychotherapy (various conceptualization and treatment models) diagnosing mental health conditions psychological assessment and testing educated and trained on various evidence-based treatment models understanding how biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors interact In most states, psychologists do not prescribe medication (with rare state-specific exceptions requiring additional medical training). One of the key strengths of working with a psychologist is the depth of training in psychotherapy and clinical formulation. Psychologists are trained to not only treat symptoms, but to understand why patterns develop and how to address them in a way that is tailored to each individual. As a psychologist in private practice , I often work independently or collaborate closely with psychiatrists and primary care providers when medication or medical coordination is part of a client’s care. What Is a Therapist? The term therapist is a broad umbrella that can include: licensed clinical social workers (LCSW / LICSW) licensed mental health counselors (LMHC) marriage and family therapists (LMFT) “Therapist” itself is not a legally protected title, meaning it does not automatically indicate a specific level of education or training. Most licensed therapists hold a master’s degree (with some holding doctorates) and complete a significant amount of supervised clinical hours prior to licensure. Many therapists are highly skilled clinicians , particularly when they have specialized training in specific treatment models or populations. Who Can Prescribe Medication? Psychiatrists : yes Psychiatric nurse practitioners : yes (scope varies by state) Psychologists : typically no (rare state-specific exceptions) Therapists : no Medication decisions are best handled by providers with medical training who can assess side effects, interactions, and physical health considerations. When Should You See Each Type of Provider? When Does It Make Sense to See a Psychiatrist? You are considering medication You need medication monitoring or adjustments You have complex medical or psychiatric medication needs When Is a Psychologist a Particularly Good Fit? Working with a psychologist may be especially helpful if: depth of training and clinical expertise matter to you you want in-depth, individualized psychotherapy you value both insight and practical, evidence-based tools diagnosis and thoughtful treatment planning are important Lisa Taylor, PsyD might be a good fit if you are navigating anxiety , grief , caregiver stress , health-related challenges , or major life transitions In a boutique private-pay setting like Sudbury Psychology Services , psychologists are often able to offer: highly individualized treatment plans continuity of care multiple evidence-based approaches a more thoughtful pace that prioritizes quality. When Is a Therapist the Right Choice? You are seeking therapy for a specific concern, which they have an expertise You find a therapist with strong training in the area you need the therapist’s approach and style align well with your goals At the end of the day, training, experience, and fit are far more important than title alone. How Therapy May Look Different Depending on Provider Training Psychotherapy can vary widely depending on a provider’s background and approach. Therapy may include: skills-based treatments (such as CBT or ACT) insight-oriented or relational work meaning- and values-based exploration short-term structured treatment or longer-term therapy Medication management typically focuses on symptom tracking and dosage adjustments, while psychotherapy focuses on understanding patterns, building coping strategies, and supporting long-term growth. Many people benefit from both when clinically appropriate. Choosing a Mental Health Provider in Sudbury and the MetroWest Area When choosing a provider locally, it may help to consider: training and experience expertise availability and continuity of care ease of access understanding of local lifestyle stressors experience working with busy professionals, caregivers, and families For many clients, working with a local provider, rather than commuting into Boston, allows therapy to be more sustainable and integrated into daily life. How Private-Pay Therapy Can Offer a Boutique Experience Private-pay practices often allow clinicians to: maintain smaller caseloads spend more time on continuing education and clinical training provide a higher level of individualized attention reduce administrative burden associated with insurance This model supports a boutique, high-end therapy experience that prioritizes depth, quality, and continuity. Many clients still use out-of-network benefits by submitting superbills for possible reimbursement. Fit Matters More Than Titles Ultimately, choosing a mental health provider is about fit , not hierarchy. Helpful questions to ask include: What is this provider’s training and clinical experience? Do they specialize in the concerns I’m bringing in? Do I feel understood, supported, and thoughtfully challenged? Are we working toward goals that feel meaningful to me? If therapy feels stagnant despite open communication, it may be appropriate to reassess fit or explore options. Final Thoughts Psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists all play important and complementary roles in mental health care. Different concerns require different types of expertise. The goal is not to choose the “best” title, it’s to choose the provider who se training, experience, and approach align with the level of care and quality you’re seeking right now. If you’re considering therapy and looking for a thoughtful, individualized approach, you’re welcome to reach out. At Sudbury Psychology Services, I work with adults who want more than symptom relief, they want deeper understanding, meaningful growth, and care that reflects the complexity of their lives. You don’t need to have everything figured out to begin. A brief consultation can help you decide whether working together feels like the right next step. Contact Sudbury Psychology Services to learn more

Therapy in Sudbury, MA: Thoughtful Support for Stress, Health Concerns, and Life Transitions

By Lisa Taylor • December 29, 2025

Looking for Therapy in Sudbury, MA? A More Thoughtful Way to Begin If you’re looking for therapy in Sudbury, MA, chances are you’re someone who is doing a lot, for your work, your family, your health, and the people you love, and quietly carrying more than most people realize. Many of the individuals I work with are high-functioning, capable, and deeply committed to doing their best. On the outside, things may look “fine.” On the inside, it often feels much heavier. Therapy at Sudbury Psychology Services is a space to slow down, understand what’s happening beneath the surface, and make meaningful, lasting changes, not just to feel better, but to live more intentionally and fully. Who I Work With in Sudbury and the MetroWest Area I specialize in working with adults who are navigating complex, real-life stressors, including: High-functioning professionals experiencing burnout, stress, or self-doubt Caregivers supporting aging parents , ill partners, or family members Adults managing health conditions or health anxiety (acute and chronic illness) Individuals experiencing grief, loss , or major life transitions Parents balancing demanding careers, caregiving roles, and personal wellbeing Many of my clients describe feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves. They often carry a persistent sense of pressure, a weight in their chest, along with perfectionism, imposter syndrome, or the feeling that they should be coping better than they are. What often brings people to therapy now is a desire for real change. Not quick fixes, but growth, clarity, and support from someone who is both knowledgeable and genuinely invested in their wellbeing. 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Many people here are looking for: high-quality care without commuting into the city a therapist who understands complex, high-pressure lives flexible scheduling designed for working professionals the option for in-person therapy with easy access and parking My Sudbury practice was intentionally designed to meet these needs, offering the depth and expertise of a clinician with extensive medical and clinical training, in a setting that is accessible, grounded, and supportive. Is This Therapy Practice the Right Fit for You? Sudbury Psychology Services is best suited for adults who are ready to engage thoughtfully in therapy and are seeking growth, insight, and meaningful change. This practice may not be the right fit for individuals who: are in immediate crisis or require a higher level of care are seeking quick fixes without reflection or engagement need services outside my areas of training limited to in-network providers If I’m not the right provider for you, I will help guide you toward appropriate care. Ensuring a good fit matters, for both of us. Therapy During Midlife, Caregiving, and Life Transitions Midlife and adulthood bring unique challenges: shifting identities, caregiving roles, health changes, grief, and transitions that are often invisible to others. Therapy can be a place to: reconnect with meaning and purpose process grief while still allowing room for joy learn to care for yourself as intentionally as you care for others grow into a more grounded, confident version of yourself Growth does not stop at any age, and therapy can support that process in powerful ways. Getting Started with Therapy in Sudbury, MA If you’re considering therapy in Sudbury, MA, I invite you to reach out. Many clients tell me that after reading this page, they feel seen, relieved, and quietly confident that this might be the right next step. You don’t have to have everything figured out to begin, just a willingness to start. Contact Sudbury Psychology Services to learn more about working together. Lisa Taylor, PsyD is a clinical psychologist and founder of Sudbury Psychology Services