Grief Therapists in Kelowna, BC

Photo of Lindsey McDonald, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Lindsey McDonald
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I also have lived experience with grief and loss.
I offer a down-to-earth and compassionate approach with a sprinkle of humour. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) passionate about helping young adults and adults, by providing in-person counselling (Kelowna) and virtual counselling across BC. Most of my practice focuses on helping adults (19+) with the following: navigating ADHD and late diagnosis, chronic illness, grief and loss, self-esteem and confidence, people pleasing, setting boundaries, navigating dysfunctional family relationships, perfectionism and procrastination, coping with burnout, feeling lost or unsure about the future, and making big life decisions.
I also have lived experience with grief and loss.
I offer a down-to-earth and compassionate approach with a sprinkle of humour. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) passionate about helping young adults and adults, by providing in-person counselling (Kelowna) and virtual counselling across BC. Most of my practice focuses on helping adults (19+) with the following: navigating ADHD and late diagnosis, chronic illness, grief and loss, self-esteem and confidence, people pleasing, setting boundaries, navigating dysfunctional family relationships, perfectionism and procrastination, coping with burnout, feeling lost or unsure about the future, and making big life decisions.
(226) 916-5518 View (226) 916-5518
Photo of Keirsten Provost - Keirsten Provost Counselling, MPCC, RPC, Counsellor
Keirsten Provost Counselling
Counsellor, MPCC, RPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1W
Narcissistic abuse relationship? Confused? Grieving? Difficulties in relationships, family, friends or work, can cause anxiety, sadness, divorce and loss of yourself and can lead to unhealthy coping strategies. I help my clients recognize patterns, understand behaviours, explore difficult decisions, grieve and gently guide them along their indivudal critical path. I listen and assist clients move beyond the emotional issues they are experiencing. My approach is empathetic, validating and supportive, offering Person centered, Solution based and Somatic Attachment Therapy.
Narcissistic abuse relationship? Confused? Grieving? Difficulties in relationships, family, friends or work, can cause anxiety, sadness, divorce and loss of yourself and can lead to unhealthy coping strategies. I help my clients recognize patterns, understand behaviours, explore difficult decisions, grieve and gently guide them along their indivudal critical path. I listen and assist clients move beyond the emotional issues they are experiencing. My approach is empathetic, validating and supportive, offering Person centered, Solution based and Somatic Attachment Therapy.
(855) 980-0859 View (855) 980-0859
Photo of Lisa Sookochoff, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Lisa Sookochoff
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I’m Lisa Sookochoff. Are you looking to create lasting change? With over 18 years of experience as a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I specialize in working 1-1 with adults seeking support in the areas of grief & loss, trauma recovery, life transitions, personal exploration & growth, anxiety & stress reduction, burnout prevention & recovery, ADHD, aging & menopause. I provide both in person counselling in Kelowna, BC and virtual services province wide. My counselling is informed by neuroscience, polyvagal theory, mindfulness and strengths-based practices. I integrate different modalities, including EMDR and ACT.
Hello! I’m Lisa Sookochoff. Are you looking to create lasting change? With over 18 years of experience as a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I specialize in working 1-1 with adults seeking support in the areas of grief & loss, trauma recovery, life transitions, personal exploration & growth, anxiety & stress reduction, burnout prevention & recovery, ADHD, aging & menopause. I provide both in person counselling in Kelowna, BC and virtual services province wide. My counselling is informed by neuroscience, polyvagal theory, mindfulness and strengths-based practices. I integrate different modalities, including EMDR and ACT.
(548) 490-7249 View (548) 490-7249
Photo of Cassie Smith, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Cassie Smith
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Hi Everyone! I'm Cassie, social worker practicing in Kelowna. My areas of expertise are trauma, grief and eating disorders. I have helped clients to understand their trauma and learn how to cope, to understand grief and it's impact on their lives, and to understand disordered eating and repairing relationship with food. I can help individuals living with depression and anxiety, offering stress management and coping strategies that offer sustainable change. Are you someone living with ADHD? As someone recently diagnosed, I come from a place of understanding and evidence-based tools that can help you be successful in your life.
Hi Everyone! I'm Cassie, social worker practicing in Kelowna. My areas of expertise are trauma, grief and eating disorders. I have helped clients to understand their trauma and learn how to cope, to understand grief and it's impact on their lives, and to understand disordered eating and repairing relationship with food. I can help individuals living with depression and anxiety, offering stress management and coping strategies that offer sustainable change. Are you someone living with ADHD? As someone recently diagnosed, I come from a place of understanding and evidence-based tools that can help you be successful in your life.
(249) 523-3369 View (249) 523-3369
Photo of Aman Bhardwaj, BA, MSW, RSW, RCC, Registered Social Worker
Aman Bhardwaj
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Using an integrative and holistic approach to counselling, I address the complexities of anxiety, grief and trauma in a way that is delicately handled.
Pursuing counselling may be a significant undertaking for some and therefore, it is imperative to establish an environment that is healing, safe and non-judgemental. I view counselling as a collaborative process, centred on an exploration of feelings and thoughts. My hope is that you recognize that your emotions and feelings are real and valid and that you do not have to go through this process alone. My responsibilities are to ensure that I stand alongside you, go through this journey with you and work towards producing a positive ripple effect, as we carefully rebuild each and every single facet of your life.
Using an integrative and holistic approach to counselling, I address the complexities of anxiety, grief and trauma in a way that is delicately handled.
Pursuing counselling may be a significant undertaking for some and therefore, it is imperative to establish an environment that is healing, safe and non-judgemental. I view counselling as a collaborative process, centred on an exploration of feelings and thoughts. My hope is that you recognize that your emotions and feelings are real and valid and that you do not have to go through this process alone. My responsibilities are to ensure that I stand alongside you, go through this journey with you and work towards producing a positive ripple effect, as we carefully rebuild each and every single facet of your life.
(431) 303-0711 View (431) 303-0711
Photo of Clair H Jantzen - Clair Jantzen: Grief and Loss Therapist, MA, RPC, MPCC-S, Counsellor
Clair Jantzen: Grief and Loss Therapist
Counsellor, MA, RPC, MPCC-S
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
But, loss can either create challenges or expose older problems.
"I'm not fragile; I'm grieving!" I have been walking with grieving people for many years and they have always taught me something new about their journeys. Supporting the bereaved is a passion for me; educating those who work with the bereaved a privilege.
But, loss can either create challenges or expose older problems.
"I'm not fragile; I'm grieving!" I have been walking with grieving people for many years and they have always taught me something new about their journeys. Supporting the bereaved is a passion for me; educating those who work with the bereaved a privilege.
(604) 243-6123 View (604) 243-6123
Photo of Jocelyn Winkler, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jocelyn Winkler
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you feel weighed down by anxiety, depression, or trauma? Are these challenges disrupting your relationships, work, or sense of purpose? If life feels heavy and overwhelming, you’re not alone—and there's hope for a brighter future. I’m Jocelyn, and I specialize in helping individuals process complex emotions and navigate life’s challenges. With over seven years of experience working with trauma and grief counselling, I provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy tailored to your unique needs.
Do you feel weighed down by anxiety, depression, or trauma? Are these challenges disrupting your relationships, work, or sense of purpose? If life feels heavy and overwhelming, you’re not alone—and there's hope for a brighter future. I’m Jocelyn, and I specialize in helping individuals process complex emotions and navigate life’s challenges. With over seven years of experience working with trauma and grief counselling, I provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy tailored to your unique needs.
(825) 807-9015 View (825) 807-9015
Photo of Eleanor Wendy McAlpine, Pre-Licensed Professional
Eleanor Wendy McAlpine
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
If you're struggling with tangled emotions, difficult transitions, grief, or other heavy life-stuff, and you’re looking for support as you work toward more freedom and joy in your life, I’d love to help. Feel free to reach out by phone or email to set up a consultation. I’m currently completing the experience hours for my licensing and work under clinical supervision. I have 30 years of experience in community care. I also have lived experience of trauma, ADHD and loss.
If you're struggling with tangled emotions, difficult transitions, grief, or other heavy life-stuff, and you’re looking for support as you work toward more freedom and joy in your life, I’d love to help. Feel free to reach out by phone or email to set up a consultation. I’m currently completing the experience hours for my licensing and work under clinical supervision. I have 30 years of experience in community care. I also have lived experience of trauma, ADHD and loss.
(250) 765-0606 View (250) 765-0606
Photo of Janice Tuling, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Janice Tuling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Hi, I’m Janice. I work with a variety of populations and have witnessed and supported many individuals living with emotional pain, attachment wounds, chronic stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, infertility, loneliness, isolation, shame, guilt, loss, grief, fear, frustration, sense of not belonging, losses of identity, lack of self-compassion and purpose. It is my deepest privilege to support you on your healing path, to witness and help you to see your innate beauty and wisdom, reclaim your authentic self and find more peace and meaning in your life.
Hi, I’m Janice. I work with a variety of populations and have witnessed and supported many individuals living with emotional pain, attachment wounds, chronic stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, infertility, loneliness, isolation, shame, guilt, loss, grief, fear, frustration, sense of not belonging, losses of identity, lack of self-compassion and purpose. It is my deepest privilege to support you on your healing path, to witness and help you to see your innate beauty and wisdom, reclaim your authentic self and find more peace and meaning in your life.
(867) 675-5782 View (867) 675-5782
Photo of Courtney Rogers - Reach Out Counselling & Support Services, BSW, MSW, RSW, BCCSW, Registered Social Worker
Reach Out Counselling & Support Services
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW, BCCSW
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Specializations in addiction, grief, ADHD, grief, and disability.
Courtney is a Registered Social Worker with a Master's Degree in Social Work from UBC. She has enjoyed supporting youth, adults, caregivers, and families for over 15 years in the Okanagan, and her background includes working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Developmental Disabilities. She believes that every individual has the ability for positive change, and great internal strength to discover themselves and what they need.
Specializations in addiction, grief, ADHD, grief, and disability.
Courtney is a Registered Social Worker with a Master's Degree in Social Work from UBC. She has enjoyed supporting youth, adults, caregivers, and families for over 15 years in the Okanagan, and her background includes working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Developmental Disabilities. She believes that every individual has the ability for positive change, and great internal strength to discover themselves and what they need.
(548) 800-1948 View (548) 800-1948
Photo of Helen Hofer - Core Perspectives Counselling Services, RPC, Counsellor
Core Perspectives Counselling Services
Counsellor, RPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I am trained in a broad spectrum of therapeutic approaches including Grief Recovery, Strategic Psychotherapy and Clinical Hypnosis.
Hello, my name is Helen Hofer and I am a Registered Professional Counsellor and am a practicing Psychotherapist in Private Practice. I work with individuals, couples and families. Although I specialize in Grief Recovery, I work with a variety of presenting concerns which include depression, anxiety and relationship issues.Thank you for taking a moment to learn how I can help you make some significant and meaningful changes in your life. It is my privilege to help my clients move from a place of dissatisfaction or unhappiness in their relationships, careers, or self-esteem and arrive at a place of joy and success.
I am trained in a broad spectrum of therapeutic approaches including Grief Recovery, Strategic Psychotherapy and Clinical Hypnosis.
Hello, my name is Helen Hofer and I am a Registered Professional Counsellor and am a practicing Psychotherapist in Private Practice. I work with individuals, couples and families. Although I specialize in Grief Recovery, I work with a variety of presenting concerns which include depression, anxiety and relationship issues.Thank you for taking a moment to learn how I can help you make some significant and meaningful changes in your life. It is my privilege to help my clients move from a place of dissatisfaction or unhappiness in their relationships, careers, or self-esteem and arrive at a place of joy and success.
(250) 864-5239 View (250) 864-5239
Photo of Chantale Elliott, RTC, CCATP, Counsellor
Chantale Elliott
Counsellor, RTC, CCATP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Do you struggle with anxiety, chronic illness, pain, or grief that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, and ability to find balance? Do you feel exhausted by the challenges of managing mental health or overwhelmed by the pressure to meet other's standards? Do you hope for a better, more integrated approach to your well-being? Now more than ever, individuals seeking a holistic approach to health and mental wellness are feeling uncertain about overcoming personal challenges. I believe that living better shouldn't be so hard, change is possible, and there's hope and answers.
Do you struggle with anxiety, chronic illness, pain, or grief that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, and ability to find balance? Do you feel exhausted by the challenges of managing mental health or overwhelmed by the pressure to meet other's standards? Do you hope for a better, more integrated approach to your well-being? Now more than ever, individuals seeking a holistic approach to health and mental wellness are feeling uncertain about overcoming personal challenges. I believe that living better shouldn't be so hard, change is possible, and there's hope and answers.
(604) 706-1907 View (604) 706-1907
Photo of Dolores Gooliaff, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Dolores Gooliaff
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Dolores is passionate about working with individuals whom have experienced any form of trauma, intimate partner violence, sexual assault/abuse, workplace bullying, grief & loss, expected and unexpected life and health transitions. Dolores also enjoys working with couples experiencing difficulties in their relationships and is experienced in supporting couples through family and relationship challenges.
Dolores is passionate about working with individuals whom have experienced any form of trauma, intimate partner violence, sexual assault/abuse, workplace bullying, grief & loss, expected and unexpected life and health transitions. Dolores also enjoys working with couples experiencing difficulties in their relationships and is experienced in supporting couples through family and relationship challenges.
(778) 766-4514 View (778) 766-4514
Photo of Nicole Fakaua, BAPsych, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Nicole Fakaua
Counsellor, BAPsych, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I primarily focus on grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, life stages, self-esteem, and relational connection working with adults and children (conscious of developmental stages).
Perhaps you are here because you need relief from your pain and disparagement and you long for the joy and peace you see others living with. Grief, trauma, anxiety, broken relationships, and disconnection with those you love most is exhausting. With more than just relief for your symptoms, I believe that you can overcome your current difficulties, redefine your relationships, and cultivate the best version of yourself. There has been much research garnered around neuroscience, trauma, and attachment that gives us insight into real interventions and strategies to help individuals heal, grow, and live in a place of discovery and hope.
I primarily focus on grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, life stages, self-esteem, and relational connection working with adults and children (conscious of developmental stages).
Perhaps you are here because you need relief from your pain and disparagement and you long for the joy and peace you see others living with. Grief, trauma, anxiety, broken relationships, and disconnection with those you love most is exhausting. With more than just relief for your symptoms, I believe that you can overcome your current difficulties, redefine your relationships, and cultivate the best version of yourself. There has been much research garnered around neuroscience, trauma, and attachment that gives us insight into real interventions and strategies to help individuals heal, grow, and live in a place of discovery and hope.
(778) 860-7853 View (778) 860-7853
Photo of Ida Uzelman-, RPCC, RTC, Counsellor
Ida Uzelman-
Counsellor, RPCC, RTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Whether you’re seeking help with grief, life transitions, trauma, or relationships, my goal is to provide compassionate care and practical tools to help you navigate life’s challenges.
It’s okay to feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about how to move forward. Life’s challenges whether they come in the form of grief, anxiety, depression, or relationship struggles can be heavy, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Reaching out for support is a brave first step, and I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey. As a therapeutic counsellor, I offer a safe, supportive space where you can explore your emotions and experiences at your own pace. Together, we’ll uncover the patterns and beliefs that may be keeping you stuck and work toward creating a path forward that feels authentic and meaningful to you.
Whether you’re seeking help with grief, life transitions, trauma, or relationships, my goal is to provide compassionate care and practical tools to help you navigate life’s challenges.
It’s okay to feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about how to move forward. Life’s challenges whether they come in the form of grief, anxiety, depression, or relationship struggles can be heavy, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Reaching out for support is a brave first step, and I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey. As a therapeutic counsellor, I offer a safe, supportive space where you can explore your emotions and experiences at your own pace. Together, we’ll uncover the patterns and beliefs that may be keeping you stuck and work toward creating a path forward that feels authentic and meaningful to you.
(506) 315-1043 View (506) 315-1043
Photo of Trixie Hennessey - Trixie Hennessey Counselling, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Trixie Hennessey Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Trixie Hennessey has extensive experience supporting clients and their families with complex issues such as eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addictions, grief/ loss, trauma, and self-harm. Trixie helps clients examine their interpersonal relationships and their use of maladaptive coping skills. Trixie would welcome the chance to schedule a free consultation with you in order to help you decide if working together will meet your needs. Trixie is works in person and remotely at this time.
Trixie Hennessey has extensive experience supporting clients and their families with complex issues such as eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addictions, grief/ loss, trauma, and self-harm. Trixie helps clients examine their interpersonal relationships and their use of maladaptive coping skills. Trixie would welcome the chance to schedule a free consultation with you in order to help you decide if working together will meet your needs. Trixie is works in person and remotely at this time.
(249) 444-2032 View (249) 444-2032
Photo of Jessica Hughes, RPC, CEPC, Counsellor
Jessica Hughes
Counsellor, RPC, CEPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in holistic health and wellness lifestyle practices, life transitions, personal/spiritual growth, chronic illness, end of life, grief and loss.
When something big in our lives has happened, we may feel frustrated, uncertain, or even have as sense of hopelessness about our situation. We may be feeling overwhelmed by information and experiencing a loss of motivation towards the changes we really want in our lives. We are not meant to be alone in our experience. I provide a safe and supportive space to uncover limiting beliefs and patterns that may be getting in the way of your joy, freedom, and overall health and wellbeing. I take a unique, holistic approach that integrates physical, emotional, spiritual and mental health techniques.
I specialize in holistic health and wellness lifestyle practices, life transitions, personal/spiritual growth, chronic illness, end of life, grief and loss.
When something big in our lives has happened, we may feel frustrated, uncertain, or even have as sense of hopelessness about our situation. We may be feeling overwhelmed by information and experiencing a loss of motivation towards the changes we really want in our lives. We are not meant to be alone in our experience. I provide a safe and supportive space to uncover limiting beliefs and patterns that may be getting in the way of your joy, freedom, and overall health and wellbeing. I take a unique, holistic approach that integrates physical, emotional, spiritual and mental health techniques.
(289) 216-5729 View (289) 216-5729
Photo of Blaine Croy, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Blaine Croy
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or thoughts that disrupt your daily life, relationships, or work? Do you often feel overwhelmed, frustrated, indifferent, or lost? Are you finding it hard to meet expectations, whether others' or your own, making it tough to live according to your values? With a specialty in depression, anxiety, couples counselling, and supporting neurodivergent populations, I believe that even in our fast-paced, often disconnected world, it's still possible to live a meaningful and purpose-filled life.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or thoughts that disrupt your daily life, relationships, or work? Do you often feel overwhelmed, frustrated, indifferent, or lost? Are you finding it hard to meet expectations, whether others' or your own, making it tough to live according to your values? With a specialty in depression, anxiety, couples counselling, and supporting neurodivergent populations, I believe that even in our fast-paced, often disconnected world, it's still possible to live a meaningful and purpose-filled life.
(431) 341-1925 View (431) 341-1925
Photo of Josie Ruoss, BEd, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Josie Ruoss
Counsellor, BEd, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I work with a wide array of issues, however I often help clients navigate grief, depression, ADHD/neurodiversity, identity shifts, trauma.
I support clients in living more fully while navigating life's painful and difficult moments. Through a collaborative therapeutic process, we'll work towards building peace and a deeper sense of personal meaning in your life. While exploring how these things impact you will also evaluate coping behaviours that may no longer useful for you in order to shift into preferred behaviours. With a foundation of empathy, trust, and active listening, I aim to offer a safe, supportive space where you can be accepted just as you are while working towards living more authentically.
I work with a wide array of issues, however I often help clients navigate grief, depression, ADHD/neurodiversity, identity shifts, trauma.
I support clients in living more fully while navigating life's painful and difficult moments. Through a collaborative therapeutic process, we'll work towards building peace and a deeper sense of personal meaning in your life. While exploring how these things impact you will also evaluate coping behaviours that may no longer useful for you in order to shift into preferred behaviours. With a foundation of empathy, trust, and active listening, I aim to offer a safe, supportive space where you can be accepted just as you are while working towards living more authentically.
View
Photo of Jess Holtslander, MSW, RSW, RCC, Counsellor
Jess Holtslander
Counsellor, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
If you are looking for space to share your story, your pain, and your loss(es); time to acknowledge pain and loss while discovering different ways of moving through grief; tools to help process and see experiences, losses, and relationships in a new way; and support to find hope, purpose, meaning, and joy in life again — I encourage you to reach out!.
I am a Registered Social Worker, Registered Clinical Counsellor, and Grief Recovery Specialist, passionate about helping individuals navigate their grief journey as well as supporting individuals who are neurodivergent. I work with people who have a suspected, recent, or late diagnosis of Autism/ADHD; have a partner/a child who is Autistic/ADHD; are grieving for various reasons (e.g., life change, chronic pain, loss of a loved one); and/or want to become more comfortable with their uncomfortable emotions.
If you are looking for space to share your story, your pain, and your loss(es); time to acknowledge pain and loss while discovering different ways of moving through grief; tools to help process and see experiences, losses, and relationships in a new way; and support to find hope, purpose, meaning, and joy in life again — I encourage you to reach out!.
I am a Registered Social Worker, Registered Clinical Counsellor, and Grief Recovery Specialist, passionate about helping individuals navigate their grief journey as well as supporting individuals who are neurodivergent. I work with people who have a suspected, recent, or late diagnosis of Autism/ADHD; have a partner/a child who is Autistic/ADHD; are grieving for various reasons (e.g., life change, chronic pain, loss of a loved one); and/or want to become more comfortable with their uncomfortable emotions.
(902) 517-0195 View (902) 517-0195
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Grief Counsellors

How long does therapy take for grief?

There is no exact timeline for grief counseling. Some people may start to feel better after just a few sessions, while others may take months or longer to feel relief. Some specific approaches, including some types of CBT, may involve a set number of sessions, or therapy may be open-ended until the patient determines they are ready to wrap up. Just as there is no right or wrong way to grieve, there is no right or wrong way to seek therapy for grief.

When should you seek therapy for grief?

Many people mistakenly believe that their grief needs to be debilitating or all-encompassing to warrant therapy. This is not the case. While people who experience severe, prolonged grief—particularly those who are considering self-harm or engaging in unhealthy substance use—are especially likely to benefit from therapy, so too are people whose grief is less intense but still interfering with well-being or daily functioning. In practice, almost anyone struggling to process a loss could benefit from grief counseling.

Can grief be managed without therapy?

Oftentimes, yes. Grief is a near-universal part of being human, and many find that their grief, while profound, does not stop them from participating in day-to-day life and steadily eases over time without outside help. For others, however, the harsh pain of early grief persists for months or years or leaves them unable to function. This group is especially likely to benefit from seeing a therapist, who can guide them through their grief and help them reconnect with the world.

What happens if grief is left untreated?

Because grief does not in itself necessitate therapy, untreated grief will often resolve on its own. However, for some people—particularly those who would qualify for a diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder—untreated grief can be a source of seemingly endless pain or lead them to withdraw from the world. In such cases, treatment can be indispensable, as it can help an individual adapt to the loss and start living again.