Photo of Imogen Chudyk-Barr, Registered Social Worker in Victoria, BC
Imogen Chudyk-Barr
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
Strained relationships; overwhelming anxiety; existential loneliness; feeling inherently broken and unlovable: if you live with trauma, these experiences may be familiar to you. The good news? You don’t have to feel that way forever. You can have a life where you feel connected to the world around you, nurture happy and healthy relationships, and communicate through overwhelm and activation. I provide counselling for individuals and couples struggling with trauma and related conflict/communication issues, attachment/relational wounds, burnout, and grief. I specialize in working with queer couples and 2SLGBTQ+ survivors of abuse.
Strained relationships; overwhelming anxiety; existential loneliness; feeling inherently broken and unlovable: if you live with trauma, these experiences may be familiar to you. The good news? You don’t have to feel that way forever. You can have a life where you feel connected to the world around you, nurture happy and healthy relationships, and communicate through overwhelm and activation. I provide counselling for individuals and couples struggling with trauma and related conflict/communication issues, attachment/relational wounds, burnout, and grief. I specialize in working with queer couples and 2SLGBTQ+ survivors of abuse.
(249) 493-7999 View (249) 493-7999
Photo of Emilie Kemlo Psychologist -Active Practice, Psychologist in Victoria, BC
Emilie Kemlo Psychologist -Active Practice
Psychologist, MA, R, Psych, ACTIVE, PRACTIC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9A
Emilie Kemlo, Psychologist is a dedicated specialist in emotionally based trauma release work for 36 years with all ages,nationalities, and income levels, using a sliding scale fee, low rates and immediate availability. She is registered with College of Psychologists of BC, worked at Counseling Center of Tokyo, Tokyo International University, and in Vancouver and Victoria, B.C. with a deep understanding of all psychological issues, both Western, First Nations and multicultural Asian issues in health, sex, work and relationships. She was a founding teacher of BC School of Art Therapy, Victoria, and uses Bioenergetic Analysis, visual language and various psychotherapeutic approaches.
Emilie Kemlo, Psychologist is a dedicated specialist in emotionally based trauma release work for 36 years with all ages,nationalities, and income levels, using a sliding scale fee, low rates and immediate availability. She is registered with College of Psychologists of BC, worked at Counseling Center of Tokyo, Tokyo International University, and in Vancouver and Victoria, B.C. with a deep understanding of all psychological issues, both Western, First Nations and multicultural Asian issues in health, sex, work and relationships. She was a founding teacher of BC School of Art Therapy, Victoria, and uses Bioenergetic Analysis, visual language and various psychotherapeutic approaches.
(855) 982-0964 View (855) 982-0964
Photo of Angela Ivy Leong, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Angela Ivy Leong
Counsellor, BA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
Waitlist for new clients
You are a deep thinker, a psychology nerd and a truth seeker. You are seeking what it means to be living a meaningful life. Finding your soul's purpose is one of your driving principles in life. Perhaps you identify with an anarchist spirit that is determined to design your life and the structure of your relationships for freedom. You are motivated by the fear of leaving this earth, not having lived your life to your fullest, completely governed by unconscious drives, or not having examined your suffering. Perhaps you can no longer bear not speaking your truth and living your most authentic expressions of self.
You are a deep thinker, a psychology nerd and a truth seeker. You are seeking what it means to be living a meaningful life. Finding your soul's purpose is one of your driving principles in life. Perhaps you identify with an anarchist spirit that is determined to design your life and the structure of your relationships for freedom. You are motivated by the fear of leaving this earth, not having lived your life to your fullest, completely governed by unconscious drives, or not having examined your suffering. Perhaps you can no longer bear not speaking your truth and living your most authentic expressions of self.
(236) 300-3665 View (236) 300-3665

Online Therapists

Photo of Jungeun Yu, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Jungeun Yu
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Langley, BC V3A
한국어 설명은 위 "한국어" 를 클릭하세요. From birth to death, we constantly move between the spectrum of stability and fragility. No one’s always firm, and no one’s always vulnerable. No one’s entirely powerless or one hundred percent stoic in the face of challenging circumstances. Counselling cannot immediately alter the external factors of your situation, but it can encourage a better response from you. I wish, through counselling, you will find opportunities for growth and change.
한국어 설명은 위 "한국어" 를 클릭하세요. From birth to death, we constantly move between the spectrum of stability and fragility. No one’s always firm, and no one’s always vulnerable. No one’s entirely powerless or one hundred percent stoic in the face of challenging circumstances. Counselling cannot immediately alter the external factors of your situation, but it can encourage a better response from you. I wish, through counselling, you will find opportunities for growth and change.
(604) 532-5340 View (604) 532-5340
Photo of Lisa Moore Clinical Counselor & Play Therapy Supvr, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Lisa Moore Clinical Counselor & Play Therapy Supvr
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Langley, BC V3A
Crossroads Collective's mission is to help people heal and grow through periods of transitions in their lives. Many of us struggle with alcohol / addictions, experience loss, grief, unhappiness or a sense of loss when we transition from one role to another in our daily lives. Some of us lose people we love, dreams we can no longer achieve, changes in careers, the diagnosis of a child with special needs, a loved one entering care, or who is ailing in health, Divorce from a spouse, the beginning of a new marriage, perhaps with a blended family. We accept private insurance plans, Victim Services(CVAP), ICBC Claims and Autism
Crossroads Collective's mission is to help people heal and grow through periods of transitions in their lives. Many of us struggle with alcohol / addictions, experience loss, grief, unhappiness or a sense of loss when we transition from one role to another in our daily lives. Some of us lose people we love, dreams we can no longer achieve, changes in careers, the diagnosis of a child with special needs, a loved one entering care, or who is ailing in health, Divorce from a spouse, the beginning of a new marriage, perhaps with a blended family. We accept private insurance plans, Victim Services(CVAP), ICBC Claims and Autism
(506) 496-0739 View (506) 496-0739
Photo of Innova Therapy Inc., Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Innova Therapy Inc.
Counsellor, MA, MEd, MSc, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Coquitlam, BC V3B
Relationship, Couples & Marriage Counselling, and Trauma Therapy, are our areas of expertise, with some of our counsellors having done this for more than 30+ years! We can also help you if you are struggling with parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem issues, grief, finding meaning and purpose in life, and balancing work and family life.
Immediate weekend and evening availability for new clients in Vancouver, Coquitlam, Cobble Hill and Maple Ridge. We are compassionate, experienced and effective multi-cultural, neuro-diversity affirming Relationship and Trauma counsellors who have served our community for many years. If you are in conflict with the significant people in your life or have experienced a traumatic event in the past that you are still struggling with today, look no further. We will work with you to access your inner resources to heal and to empower you to build healthy, peaceful and loving relationships, and to make meaningful connections with others.
Relationship, Couples & Marriage Counselling, and Trauma Therapy, are our areas of expertise, with some of our counsellors having done this for more than 30+ years! We can also help you if you are struggling with parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem issues, grief, finding meaning and purpose in life, and balancing work and family life.
Immediate weekend and evening availability for new clients in Vancouver, Coquitlam, Cobble Hill and Maple Ridge. We are compassionate, experienced and effective multi-cultural, neuro-diversity affirming Relationship and Trauma counsellors who have served our community for many years. If you are in conflict with the significant people in your life or have experienced a traumatic event in the past that you are still struggling with today, look no further. We will work with you to access your inner resources to heal and to empower you to build healthy, peaceful and loving relationships, and to make meaningful connections with others.
(778) 400-1594 View (778) 400-1594
Photo of Paul Bains, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Paul Bains
Counsellor, BSc, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3W
Practical and meaningful results. If you want results then I can help. Free 30 minute initial consult. I specialize in marriage & family counselling, anger management, trauma & abuse, grief/loss counselling, spiritual issues and parenting. I will work collaboratively with you to determine the best way to help you in achieving the goals and hopes you have for your marriage, family or individual needs. I believe that you have the answers within you to achieve the change you want. I can help you get to those answers and assist you in building a better marriage, or peaceful family or gaining more insight into your issues.
Practical and meaningful results. If you want results then I can help. Free 30 minute initial consult. I specialize in marriage & family counselling, anger management, trauma & abuse, grief/loss counselling, spiritual issues and parenting. I will work collaboratively with you to determine the best way to help you in achieving the goals and hopes you have for your marriage, family or individual needs. I believe that you have the answers within you to achieve the change you want. I can help you get to those answers and assist you in building a better marriage, or peaceful family or gaining more insight into your issues.
(855) 338-2076 View (855) 338-2076
Photo of Cindy Kwok, Registered Psychotherapist in Victoria, BC
Cindy Kwok
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, BC V6X
If you are taking or considering a psychiatric medication, you will find me knowledgeable about how therapy and medication can support healing from PTSD, bipolar disorder, grief, and other challenges.
Do you struggle with self-esteem or managing your emotions? Are you having difficulty coping or having difficulty in your family or personal relationships? Do you need help recovering from substance abuse? Have you experienced trauma in the past? In therapy, we will draw from practical tools that you can start applying in everyday life to build and sustain recovery. We will work towards tangible results — improved self confidence, better romantic and peer relationships, and sustained sobriety. Therapy is a safe space to start permanent healing. I am looking forward to hearing your story and to providing effective support.
If you are taking or considering a psychiatric medication, you will find me knowledgeable about how therapy and medication can support healing from PTSD, bipolar disorder, grief, and other challenges.
Do you struggle with self-esteem or managing your emotions? Are you having difficulty coping or having difficulty in your family or personal relationships? Do you need help recovering from substance abuse? Have you experienced trauma in the past? In therapy, we will draw from practical tools that you can start applying in everyday life to build and sustain recovery. We will work towards tangible results — improved self confidence, better romantic and peer relationships, and sustained sobriety. Therapy is a safe space to start permanent healing. I am looking forward to hearing your story and to providing effective support.
(289) 278-6902 View (289) 278-6902
Photo of Hilda Nanning Counselling, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Hilda Nanning Counselling
Counsellor, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6B
Hilda Nanning provides specialized therapy for individuals experiencing crisis, trauma, discord or conflict in regards to self or in relation to others. Some of the relationships Hilda's clients bring into the therapeutic sessions may involve intimate or family relations. Some of the problems she is skilled to work with include: relational discord, issues relating to separation/divorce, trauma, grief/loss, health, aging, employment/career, sexuality, identity, fleeing sociopathy/ violence and abuse, substance misuse, eating/not-eating , challenging transitions and emotional pain such as: worries and fears, depression, regret, shame, eroded confidence/self-esteem and anxiety, feeling stuck or isolated.
Hilda Nanning provides specialized therapy for individuals experiencing crisis, trauma, discord or conflict in regards to self or in relation to others. Some of the relationships Hilda's clients bring into the therapeutic sessions may involve intimate or family relations. Some of the problems she is skilled to work with include: relational discord, issues relating to separation/divorce, trauma, grief/loss, health, aging, employment/career, sexuality, identity, fleeing sociopathy/ violence and abuse, substance misuse, eating/not-eating , challenging transitions and emotional pain such as: worries and fears, depression, regret, shame, eroded confidence/self-esteem and anxiety, feeling stuck or isolated.
(866) 418-0979 View (866) 418-0979
Photo of Husain Vahanvaty, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Husain Vahanvaty
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coquitlam, BC V3B
Husain is a strength based and multicultural Registered Clinical Counselor (RCC) with experience working with adults, children & youth. Husain provides care for anxiety, panic attacks, mood disorders, depression, grief, trauma, stress-related disorders, brain injuries, relationship issues, substance misuse, PTSD, ADHD and/or bipolar disorders. Husain currently works at Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) as a Mental Health Substance Use therapist and works with complex clinical health cases. Husain also provides specific counselling to victims of assault and/or injury. This includes ICBC or CVAP clients.
Husain is a strength based and multicultural Registered Clinical Counselor (RCC) with experience working with adults, children & youth. Husain provides care for anxiety, panic attacks, mood disorders, depression, grief, trauma, stress-related disorders, brain injuries, relationship issues, substance misuse, PTSD, ADHD and/or bipolar disorders. Husain currently works at Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) as a Mental Health Substance Use therapist and works with complex clinical health cases. Husain also provides specific counselling to victims of assault and/or injury. This includes ICBC or CVAP clients.
(548) 490-2958 View (548) 490-2958
Photo of Audree McIvor, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Audree McIvor
Counsellor, RCC, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5K
Do you struggle with depression or anxiety? Are you unsure of what to do from here? Let's untangle those moments to help you see your true self, which includes your strengths, struggles and life transitions. When we see ourselves through a different lens, we may recognize a more authentic self, creating self-acceptance and self-love. Let’s work together to create a relationship based on trust, genuineness and acceptance. I have daytime and evening availability.
Do you struggle with depression or anxiety? Are you unsure of what to do from here? Let's untangle those moments to help you see your true self, which includes your strengths, struggles and life transitions. When we see ourselves through a different lens, we may recognize a more authentic self, creating self-acceptance and self-love. Let’s work together to create a relationship based on trust, genuineness and acceptance. I have daytime and evening availability.
(431) 430-2007 View (431) 430-2007
Photo of Amanda Steele, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Amanda Steele
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
You’ve found your person, but you’re struggling to talk through your differences in a way that honours what you want out of a relationship. You fear that with the accumulation of unresolved issues, that one day everything will come tumbling down. You’re afraid of triggering the other, so you avoid and you’re starting to feel more and more lonely. You’re aware that your roles are to nurture each other’s inner child, but often you don’t know where to begin. You’re not sure if you’re having communication issues or there’s a difference in values. Breaking up is not what you want, but often it spirals in that direction.
You’ve found your person, but you’re struggling to talk through your differences in a way that honours what you want out of a relationship. You fear that with the accumulation of unresolved issues, that one day everything will come tumbling down. You’re afraid of triggering the other, so you avoid and you’re starting to feel more and more lonely. You’re aware that your roles are to nurture each other’s inner child, but often you don’t know where to begin. You’re not sure if you’re having communication issues or there’s a difference in values. Breaking up is not what you want, but often it spirals in that direction.
(807) 907-5376 View (807) 907-5376
Photo of Patsy Wong, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Patsy Wong
Counsellor, MSSc, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5H
With more than 10 years of experience in psychotherapy and counselling, I have been working with adults and young adults who are struggling with their feelings, relationships or even life. At times, we may get stuck, feel overwhelmed or even lost. In face of these challenges, it is not uncommon to run away from them, or fight so hard trying to get rid of them. More often than not, neither way leads to a peaceful mind. I am here to walk with you in these struggles, work with you to navigate in a direction which aligns more with your values and leads to a more peaceful, meaningful and satisfying life.
With more than 10 years of experience in psychotherapy and counselling, I have been working with adults and young adults who are struggling with their feelings, relationships or even life. At times, we may get stuck, feel overwhelmed or even lost. In face of these challenges, it is not uncommon to run away from them, or fight so hard trying to get rid of them. More often than not, neither way leads to a peaceful mind. I am here to walk with you in these struggles, work with you to navigate in a direction which aligns more with your values and leads to a more peaceful, meaningful and satisfying life.
(902) 600-9032 View (902) 600-9032
Photo of Speakeasy Counselling Allison Cordner & Associates, Licensed Professional Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Speakeasy Counselling Allison Cordner & Associates
Licensed Professional Counsellor, MA, RCC, RTC, SEP, TRA
Verified Verified
North Vancouver, BC V7M  (Online Only)
We are a team of clinicians that are trained to work with students, individuals, couples and families. That excel at helping you expand your emotional tolerance, reactions & communication skills. Too many of us suffer in silence with anxiety, low self-esteem, unprocessed trauma and anger. You are not alone and we are here to encourage you to let those experiences be felt in a safe & non-judgmental environment. We know how hard it can be for most people to do therapy & our goal is to make it engaging, insightful & rewarding. To be vulnerable means not having our deepest feelings and secrets shot down. We use an integrative approach.
We are a team of clinicians that are trained to work with students, individuals, couples and families. That excel at helping you expand your emotional tolerance, reactions & communication skills. Too many of us suffer in silence with anxiety, low self-esteem, unprocessed trauma and anger. You are not alone and we are here to encourage you to let those experiences be felt in a safe & non-judgmental environment. We know how hard it can be for most people to do therapy & our goal is to make it engaging, insightful & rewarding. To be vulnerable means not having our deepest feelings and secrets shot down. We use an integrative approach.
(604) 900-1914 View (604) 900-1914
Photo of Cherise Garon, Pre-Licensed Professional in Victoria, BC
Cherise Garon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MACP
Verified Verified
Langley, BC V3A
Seeking therapy is a big step and finding a therapist that works for you is an important starting point in your journey. My goal is to build a trusting and authentic therapeutic relationship with you, so we can work collaboratively in a safe and supportive environment. Whether you are going through a major life change, seeking help with stress and anxiety, or wanting to build self-love, I am here to help uncover your strengths and work with you to achieve your unique therapeutic goals.
Seeking therapy is a big step and finding a therapist that works for you is an important starting point in your journey. My goal is to build a trusting and authentic therapeutic relationship with you, so we can work collaboratively in a safe and supportive environment. Whether you are going through a major life change, seeking help with stress and anxiety, or wanting to build self-love, I am here to help uncover your strengths and work with you to achieve your unique therapeutic goals.
(604) 532-5340 View (604) 532-5340
Photo of Elysia Bronson, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Elysia Bronson
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V3G  (Online Only)
Struggling with chronic pain, fatigue, or brain fog? As a therapist who's also navigated chronic illness, I know what it’s like to feel like you’re always pushing past your limits to get through the day. To feel like your body aches, your brain feels foggy, and the life you long to have seems out of reach. If you’ve been trying to deal with these issues on your own for a while, it might be time to bring in reinforcements. That's why I specialize in teaching skills and providing support to anyone, anywhere with online therapy. You can book in anytime you need and get supported by someone who gets it and specializes in it.
Struggling with chronic pain, fatigue, or brain fog? As a therapist who's also navigated chronic illness, I know what it’s like to feel like you’re always pushing past your limits to get through the day. To feel like your body aches, your brain feels foggy, and the life you long to have seems out of reach. If you’ve been trying to deal with these issues on your own for a while, it might be time to bring in reinforcements. That's why I specialize in teaching skills and providing support to anyone, anywhere with online therapy. You can book in anytime you need and get supported by someone who gets it and specializes in it.
(249) 506-0037 View (249) 506-0037
Photo of Jin Broughton, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Jin Broughton
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Langley, BC V1M
My foundation of therapy is a biopsychosocial-spiritual model, viewing human beings as whole persons of four aspects: physical, psychological, social, and spiritual. Therefore, I am able to see the whole picture on how a brain injury, physical illness, physical trauma, or substance abuse affects human emotions, cognition, behavior, and spirituality, or vice versa. My approach utilizes Cognitive Rehabilitation therapy (CRT), Rogerian therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), and Narrative therapy in order to help my clients toward problem solving and having a new hope for a new life.
My foundation of therapy is a biopsychosocial-spiritual model, viewing human beings as whole persons of four aspects: physical, psychological, social, and spiritual. Therefore, I am able to see the whole picture on how a brain injury, physical illness, physical trauma, or substance abuse affects human emotions, cognition, behavior, and spirituality, or vice versa. My approach utilizes Cognitive Rehabilitation therapy (CRT), Rogerian therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), and Narrative therapy in order to help my clients toward problem solving and having a new hope for a new life.
(855) 910-7681 View (855) 910-7681
Photo of Peak Resilience, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Peak Resilience
Counsellor, MA, MSW, MEd, MCP, RCC, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z
We are a leading counselling practice in Vancouver, BC specializing in empowering individuals to live authentic, meaningful lives. Our goal is to equip you with the tools and self-knowledge to manage emotions, overcome anxiety and depression, achieve your goals and see the world in a new perspective. We work with you to inspire confidence, peace of mind and, ultimately, lifelong resilience.
We are a leading counselling practice in Vancouver, BC specializing in empowering individuals to live authentic, meaningful lives. Our goal is to equip you with the tools and self-knowledge to manage emotions, overcome anxiety and depression, achieve your goals and see the world in a new perspective. We work with you to inspire confidence, peace of mind and, ultimately, lifelong resilience.
(778) 765-1093 View (778) 765-1093
Photo of Linda Williams, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Linda Williams
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5K
There are no clinical issues that I am not comfortable with. I will hold space for whatever you bring and especially enjoy peeling back the layers of those with childhood trauma who find it impacts their ability to experience safe relationships as adults. I can help with issues related to addiction, and the fall out effect on families and relationships. I really enjoy helping people deal with personal impact of narcissism, BPD and emotional regulation disorders in a parent, children or spouse. I also welcome those with BPD and Quiet BPD. I can also help anyone caught in the turmoil of infidelity. You will find clarity with me.
There are no clinical issues that I am not comfortable with. I will hold space for whatever you bring and especially enjoy peeling back the layers of those with childhood trauma who find it impacts their ability to experience safe relationships as adults. I can help with issues related to addiction, and the fall out effect on families and relationships. I really enjoy helping people deal with personal impact of narcissism, BPD and emotional regulation disorders in a parent, children or spouse. I also welcome those with BPD and Quiet BPD. I can also help anyone caught in the turmoil of infidelity. You will find clarity with me.
(548) 490-3581 View (548) 490-3581
Photo of Namaste Counselling, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Namaste Counselling
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, BCACC, BEd
Verified Verified
Delta, BC V4E
Feeling anxious, depressed or stressed? Is legal counsel requesting anger management sessions? Life is incredibly painful at times, and we often feel alone in our suffering. You don't have to go through this on your own. Take the first step, help awaits! Reach out! I have a gentle yet directive approach utilizing psychotherapy in a variety of modalities of which include trauma informed practices, cognitive behavioural therapies, mindfulness, visualizations, dialectical behaviour therapies, strength & solution based interventions. All of which foster reflection, healing, self discovery, growth & transformation to inner peace.
Feeling anxious, depressed or stressed? Is legal counsel requesting anger management sessions? Life is incredibly painful at times, and we often feel alone in our suffering. You don't have to go through this on your own. Take the first step, help awaits! Reach out! I have a gentle yet directive approach utilizing psychotherapy in a variety of modalities of which include trauma informed practices, cognitive behavioural therapies, mindfulness, visualizations, dialectical behaviour therapies, strength & solution based interventions. All of which foster reflection, healing, self discovery, growth & transformation to inner peace.
(778) 860-5574 View (778) 860-5574

See more therapy options for Victoria

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.