Photo of Woolwich Counselling Centre, Registered Social Worker in Elmira, ON
Woolwich Counselling Centre
Registered Social Worker, MSW RSW
Verified Verified
Elmira, ON N3B
Our therapists have expertise assisting adults, teens and children resolve a wide range of emotional and mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, family conflict, grief, sexuality, parenting concerns, trauma, insomnia, etc.
Woolwich Counselling Centre is dedicated to providing the highest quality of professional counselling services to individuals in Woolwich / Wellesley Townships and surrounding areas. All therapists have a minimum of a Masters degree in Social Work, Psychology or a related field and are registered with their respective professional colleges. Counselling fees are often covered by extended health benefits. Our fees are geared to income, based on a sliding fee scale and service is offered regardless of ability to pay.
Our therapists have expertise assisting adults, teens and children resolve a wide range of emotional and mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, family conflict, grief, sexuality, parenting concerns, trauma, insomnia, etc.
Woolwich Counselling Centre is dedicated to providing the highest quality of professional counselling services to individuals in Woolwich / Wellesley Townships and surrounding areas. All therapists have a minimum of a Masters degree in Social Work, Psychology or a related field and are registered with their respective professional colleges. Counselling fees are often covered by extended health benefits. Our fees are geared to income, based on a sliding fee scale and service is offered regardless of ability to pay.
(226) 773-1646 View (226) 773-1646
Photo of Tara L Boyce, Registered Social Worker in Elmira, ON
Tara L Boyce
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, P
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elmira, ON N3B
Areas of interest/speciality include: family of origin and generational dynamics, attachment, trauma, prayer counselling, inner healing, parenting help, CBT, EFT couple therapy, grief and loss, mental health and addictions, depression, anxiety, and soul care.
Are things piling up and feeling like too much? Are you minimizing your pain? Do you pour energy into the things that sap your soul? Do you need a safe space to be understood and return to yourself? To remember who you are? If you are ready to begin looking at yourself with acceptance and compassion, I am waiting for your call. There are reasons for your current struggles and suffering. My philosophy is that you are already wired with many strengths and that we all need a little help along the way to get ourselves where we need to go.
Areas of interest/speciality include: family of origin and generational dynamics, attachment, trauma, prayer counselling, inner healing, parenting help, CBT, EFT couple therapy, grief and loss, mental health and addictions, depression, anxiety, and soul care.
Are things piling up and feeling like too much? Are you minimizing your pain? Do you pour energy into the things that sap your soul? Do you need a safe space to be understood and return to yourself? To remember who you are? If you are ready to begin looking at yourself with acceptance and compassion, I am waiting for your call. There are reasons for your current struggles and suffering. My philosophy is that you are already wired with many strengths and that we all need a little help along the way to get ourselves where we need to go.
(226) 270-1368 View (226) 270-1368
Photo of Brooke Pickersgill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Elmira, ON
Brooke Pickersgill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Elmira, ON N3B  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with both youth and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction challenges, behavior challenges, emotion dysregulation and various other mental health struggles. In our work together, you will be supported through a compassionate, non-judgmental lens, where you are provided with supportive listening, validation, and somebody to bear witness for you in your experiences. We will work together as a team to identify barriers, build on strengths, and also help families gain insight and attunement for a holistic approach.
I have extensive experience working with both youth and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction challenges, behavior challenges, emotion dysregulation and various other mental health struggles. In our work together, you will be supported through a compassionate, non-judgmental lens, where you are provided with supportive listening, validation, and somebody to bear witness for you in your experiences. We will work together as a team to identify barriers, build on strengths, and also help families gain insight and attunement for a holistic approach.
(226) 907-1515 View (226) 907-1515
Photo of Lisa Taylor, Registered Social Worker in Elmira, ON
Lisa Taylor
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW, B Ed, OCT
Verified Verified
Elmira, ON N3B
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you looking to find the balance between work, home, kids, yourself? Are you dealing with changes in your life that are causing you to be more anxious or stressed?
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you looking to find the balance between work, home, kids, yourself? Are you dealing with changes in your life that are causing you to be more anxious or stressed?
(226) 706-9932 View (226) 706-9932
Photo of Theresa Will, Registered Psychotherapist in Elmira, ON
Theresa Will
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Elmira, ON N3B
Not accepting new clients
I’ve supported clients extensively in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, substance issues, eating disorders, relationship issues, emotion regulation challenges, anger management, self-esteem, teen issues, stress management, and more.
Reaching out for help, especially from a stranger, is incredibly scary and courageous - the first step is often the hardest. I always feel honoured to join my clients on their journey to wellness and I welcome the opportunity to work with you. I am committed to working with you at your pace. My approach is down to earth and collaborative, always. I strive to maintain an emotionally safe and judgment free space so that you may feel respected and heard. I am extensively trained in trauma therapy and have participated in Phases 1, 2, 3, 4 and Masters level of Brainspotting, as well as the specialty Children and Adolescents training.
I’ve supported clients extensively in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, substance issues, eating disorders, relationship issues, emotion regulation challenges, anger management, self-esteem, teen issues, stress management, and more.
Reaching out for help, especially from a stranger, is incredibly scary and courageous - the first step is often the hardest. I always feel honoured to join my clients on their journey to wellness and I welcome the opportunity to work with you. I am committed to working with you at your pace. My approach is down to earth and collaborative, always. I strive to maintain an emotionally safe and judgment free space so that you may feel respected and heard. I am extensively trained in trauma therapy and have participated in Phases 1, 2, 3, 4 and Masters level of Brainspotting, as well as the specialty Children and Adolescents training.
(226) 400-8579 View (226) 400-8579

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jisca Rodriguez, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Elmira, ON
Jisca Rodriguez
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q), MMT, MTA
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2H
I also offer support to women looking for a safe space to explore issues like anxiety, depression, grief, loss, and life transition.
I offer a warm and engaging environment where clients can discover strengths, overcome challenges and work towards goals in a safe creative space. I focus on providing creative mediums like music and play as a compliment or alternative to verbal therapy, aiming to open up many possibilities for communication, expression, and growth. I am a certified music therapist, a qualifying psychotherapist, and have also completed training in child-centred play therapy. Clients do not need to have any previous musical experience or training to engage in music therapy.
I also offer support to women looking for a safe space to explore issues like anxiety, depression, grief, loss, and life transition.
I offer a warm and engaging environment where clients can discover strengths, overcome challenges and work towards goals in a safe creative space. I focus on providing creative mediums like music and play as a compliment or alternative to verbal therapy, aiming to open up many possibilities for communication, expression, and growth. I am a certified music therapist, a qualifying psychotherapist, and have also completed training in child-centred play therapy. Clients do not need to have any previous musical experience or training to engage in music therapy.
(548) 490-5940 View (548) 490-5940
Photo of Jennifer Ritchie, Registered Psychotherapist in Elmira, ON
Jennifer Ritchie
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CYW
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L  (Online Only)
Effective May 17th, I am welcoming new clients! With over 19 years experience, I work collaboratively with teens and pre-teens (9-18), adults, and families to find hope and regain balance. Perhaps you've suffered great loss or you're wanting more from your relationships. Maybe you're dealing with anxiety or you're re-evaluating your life and are on the brink of a major transition. Or you're worried about your teen and the direction they're headed. A lot of us get weighed down by one thing after another. Whatever it is, if you're feeling unsure or unsettled and you're seeking a greater sense of ease, allow me to support you.
Effective May 17th, I am welcoming new clients! With over 19 years experience, I work collaboratively with teens and pre-teens (9-18), adults, and families to find hope and regain balance. Perhaps you've suffered great loss or you're wanting more from your relationships. Maybe you're dealing with anxiety or you're re-evaluating your life and are on the brink of a major transition. Or you're worried about your teen and the direction they're headed. A lot of us get weighed down by one thing after another. Whatever it is, if you're feeling unsure or unsettled and you're seeking a greater sense of ease, allow me to support you.
(416) 800-3146 View (416) 800-3146
Photo of Ruth vanLoon, Registered Social Worker in Elmira, ON
Ruth vanLoon
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
Accepting new clients, evening appointments. Do you feel stuck, anxious or unhappy? Have you experienced loss, trauma or mental health struggles? I work with youth and adults wherever they are at and empower them achieve their goals of who and where they want to be. There are so many things that can impact our ability to live as fully as we want to and sometimes we need a space to process, make connections and find strategies and tools to move forward. I believe that healing is possible and I am passionate about offering a strengths-based approach, insight and skill building, compassion and a sense of humour to help you find it.
Accepting new clients, evening appointments. Do you feel stuck, anxious or unhappy? Have you experienced loss, trauma or mental health struggles? I work with youth and adults wherever they are at and empower them achieve their goals of who and where they want to be. There are so many things that can impact our ability to live as fully as we want to and sometimes we need a space to process, make connections and find strategies and tools to move forward. I believe that healing is possible and I am passionate about offering a strengths-based approach, insight and skill building, compassion and a sense of humour to help you find it.
(226) 807-0061 View (226) 807-0061
Photo of Paula Ferreira, Registered Social Worker in Elmira, ON
Paula Ferreira
Registered Social Worker, MSW RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2K  (Online Only)
‘Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change.’ W. Dyer. Sometimes that’s easier said than done though, right? It may not be possible to avoid stress for the rest of our lives, but it is absolutely possible to have the strategies to work through it and the support to facilitate it. My work is centered on helping people figure out ‘life’ - managing relationships with others and self, dealing with big emotions, working through trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, all while honoring and caring for a person’s whole self.
‘Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change.’ W. Dyer. Sometimes that’s easier said than done though, right? It may not be possible to avoid stress for the rest of our lives, but it is absolutely possible to have the strategies to work through it and the support to facilitate it. My work is centered on helping people figure out ‘life’ - managing relationships with others and self, dealing with big emotions, working through trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, all while honoring and caring for a person’s whole self.
View
Photo of Nada Jarmakani, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Elmira, ON
Nada Jarmakani
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP, CTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J
I integrate from various approaches including CBT, Mindfulness, Narrative, and Somatic therapy to work with individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, life transition, trauma, stress, burnout, and anger management.
Are you struggling to get through the day and feel disconnected from life and things that matter? Whether you're a newcomer to Canada, coping with a personal crisis or relationship conflicts, or managing daily stress, I’m here to support your journey towards healing and growth. As a multicultural therapist, I understand the impact these challenges can have on individuals and families from diverse backgrounds. Difficult times can take a toll on mental well-being, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Let's work together to help you explore new possibilities, build hope, and create a life that is authentic, inspiring, and fulfilling.
I integrate from various approaches including CBT, Mindfulness, Narrative, and Somatic therapy to work with individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, life transition, trauma, stress, burnout, and anger management.
Are you struggling to get through the day and feel disconnected from life and things that matter? Whether you're a newcomer to Canada, coping with a personal crisis or relationship conflicts, or managing daily stress, I’m here to support your journey towards healing and growth. As a multicultural therapist, I understand the impact these challenges can have on individuals and families from diverse backgrounds. Difficult times can take a toll on mental well-being, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Let's work together to help you explore new possibilities, build hope, and create a life that is authentic, inspiring, and fulfilling.
(548) 900-0178 View (548) 900-0178
Photo of Sadaf Jamal, Registered Psychotherapist in Elmira, ON
Sadaf Jamal
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, MPS, RP, FIS, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2V  (Online Only)
I received my Grief Therapist training from Heart House Hospice.
Are you exhausted from repeating patterns of struggles? Do you feel lost and worried? Ever wonder who to turn to when feelings of anxiety or depression creep up? Are you losing sleep, appetite, and mobility or do you look for solutions midnight in the fridge? I am willing to walk beside you in your journey of turning your struggles into strengths. In our therapeutic alliance, we can rediscover your healthier self which is already within you. We will take a holistic approach in psychotherapy to cater to your cultural and spiritual sensitivities in balancing your body, mind, and soul.
I received my Grief Therapist training from Heart House Hospice.
Are you exhausted from repeating patterns of struggles? Do you feel lost and worried? Ever wonder who to turn to when feelings of anxiety or depression creep up? Are you losing sleep, appetite, and mobility or do you look for solutions midnight in the fridge? I am willing to walk beside you in your journey of turning your struggles into strengths. In our therapeutic alliance, we can rediscover your healthier self which is already within you. We will take a holistic approach in psychotherapy to cater to your cultural and spiritual sensitivities in balancing your body, mind, and soul.
View
Photo of Azadeh Erfanian, Registered Social Worker in Elmira, ON
Azadeh Erfanian
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J  (Online Only)
I have worked with individuals struggling with grief and loss, childhood and inter-generational trauma, depression and anxiety, relationship conflicts and attachment issues.
My extensive experience working with individuals and families has led me to believe in the immense human capacity for change, recovery, and healing. I am a clinical social worker and view psychotherapy as a gentle, coordinated dance between therapist and client. I am interested in knowing you, your challenges, triumphs and your life story. While I am able to take a supportive role by listening and acknowledging your emotions, I can also take an active role when necessary. Therefore, you can count on hearing my take on the presented issues and my advice.
I have worked with individuals struggling with grief and loss, childhood and inter-generational trauma, depression and anxiety, relationship conflicts and attachment issues.
My extensive experience working with individuals and families has led me to believe in the immense human capacity for change, recovery, and healing. I am a clinical social worker and view psychotherapy as a gentle, coordinated dance between therapist and client. I am interested in knowing you, your challenges, triumphs and your life story. While I am able to take a supportive role by listening and acknowledging your emotions, I can also take an active role when necessary. Therefore, you can count on hearing my take on the presented issues and my advice.
(548) 490-4012 View (548) 490-4012
Photo of Kendra Seymour, Registered Psychotherapist in Elmira, ON
Kendra Seymour
Registered Psychotherapist, BASc, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2K
I believe mental health is a spectrum in which we all strive for wellness. With 15 years experience supporting children, teens and families, I am well versed in the current struggles they face as well as walking along-side them as they move towards wellness. I am here to support with managing anxiety, depression, emotion regulation and many other difficulties faced by today's families. I also have a strong passion in supporting older adults and clients of all ages who may be struggling to manage their grief. I am certified to support those on their end-of-life journey, including MAiD, and anyone impacted along the way.
I believe mental health is a spectrum in which we all strive for wellness. With 15 years experience supporting children, teens and families, I am well versed in the current struggles they face as well as walking along-side them as they move towards wellness. I am here to support with managing anxiety, depression, emotion regulation and many other difficulties faced by today's families. I also have a strong passion in supporting older adults and clients of all ages who may be struggling to manage their grief. I am certified to support those on their end-of-life journey, including MAiD, and anyone impacted along the way.
(226) 455-5653 View (226) 455-5653
Photo of Jennifer O'Connor, Registered Social Worker in Elmira, ON
Jennifer O'Connor
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
I have a breadth of experience supporting children, youth and adults with trauma, grief, loss anxiety and depression.
Are you carrying the pain of traumatic memories with you on a day to day basis? Would you like relief from flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, nightmares and symptoms of trauma? I am a Certified EMDR therapist who specializes in supporting individuals in processing traumatic experiences to reduce symptoms. In counselling, I work to help individuals to identify, strengthen and develop their coping skills by creating an empathic space to explore feelings.  I am passionate about offering strength-based counselling to help individuals work towards well-being and find ways to maintain connections with what is important to them.
I have a breadth of experience supporting children, youth and adults with trauma, grief, loss anxiety and depression.
Are you carrying the pain of traumatic memories with you on a day to day basis? Would you like relief from flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, nightmares and symptoms of trauma? I am a Certified EMDR therapist who specializes in supporting individuals in processing traumatic experiences to reduce symptoms. In counselling, I work to help individuals to identify, strengthen and develop their coping skills by creating an empathic space to explore feelings.  I am passionate about offering strength-based counselling to help individuals work towards well-being and find ways to maintain connections with what is important to them.
(226) 270-7968 View (226) 270-7968
Photo of Courtney Bell, Registered Psychotherapist in Elmira, ON
Courtney Bell
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with 12 years of clinical experience. Working with children and youth is a specialization of mine but I also love working with adults. I am currently completing trauma training in Somatic Experiencing, which explores the mind-body connected and how stress gets stored in the body. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and relationship issues. I use an integrative approach which incorporates a mind-body approach and is considerate of the latest neuroscience research. I describe myself as a client-centred, relational and strengths based therapist.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with 12 years of clinical experience. Working with children and youth is a specialization of mine but I also love working with adults. I am currently completing trauma training in Somatic Experiencing, which explores the mind-body connected and how stress gets stored in the body. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and relationship issues. I use an integrative approach which incorporates a mind-body approach and is considerate of the latest neuroscience research. I describe myself as a client-centred, relational and strengths based therapist.
(226) 780-3107 View (226) 780-3107
Photo of Vera Kelim, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Elmira, ON
Vera Kelim
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MPsy, OAMHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J
Hello! For Adults my expertise is challenging emotions, difficult periods of your life, coping with grief, trauma, and stress. My special area of experience is work with Children, Teens, and Parents. Any questions about parenting, development, processing difficult experiences and emotions: I'm here to help you. Psychotherapy is my vocation, and I've been working in private and group counselling for over 20 years. I'm fluent in both Russian and English.
Hello! For Adults my expertise is challenging emotions, difficult periods of your life, coping with grief, trauma, and stress. My special area of experience is work with Children, Teens, and Parents. Any questions about parenting, development, processing difficult experiences and emotions: I'm here to help you. Psychotherapy is my vocation, and I've been working in private and group counselling for over 20 years. I'm fluent in both Russian and English.
(226) 807-6027 View (226) 807-6027
Photo of The Delton Glebe Counselling Centre, Registered Psychotherapist in Elmira, ON
The Delton Glebe Counselling Centre
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L
Here is a partial list of areas where we can help: Anxiety & Depression, Couples & Relationship Issues, Trauma & Abuse, Grief & Loss, Parenting & Family Issues, Life Purpose & Life Meaning Questions, Addiction & Recovery Issues.
The Delton Glebe Counselling Centre is a multi-faith counselling agency committed to strengthening emotional and spiritual well-being. We are rooted in the belief that faith and spirituality are important resources for healing and change. We embrace diversity and cultural inclusivity and offer counselling to all individuals. We provide trained therapists who qualify for membership in the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
Here is a partial list of areas where we can help: Anxiety & Depression, Couples & Relationship Issues, Trauma & Abuse, Grief & Loss, Parenting & Family Issues, Life Purpose & Life Meaning Questions, Addiction & Recovery Issues.
The Delton Glebe Counselling Centre is a multi-faith counselling agency committed to strengthening emotional and spiritual well-being. We are rooted in the belief that faith and spirituality are important resources for healing and change. We embrace diversity and cultural inclusivity and offer counselling to all individuals. We provide trained therapists who qualify for membership in the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
(855) 953-0748 View (855) 953-0748
Photo of Halima Fuller, Registered Psychotherapist in Elmira, ON
Halima Fuller
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, , RP
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J
I work with families, individuals, couples, and groups to provide support for relationship turbulence, grief, anxiety/depression, and life transitions, including immigration struggles. Clients may come to therapy feeling overwhelmed by stress, sadness, anger, fear, self doubt, substance use, shame, and a diminished sense of self or worth. I help them realize that adverse situations do not define them. As we work together, they gain the skills to overcome obstacles and to build positive, reciprocal relationships of value and mutual respect.
I work with families, individuals, couples, and groups to provide support for relationship turbulence, grief, anxiety/depression, and life transitions, including immigration struggles. Clients may come to therapy feeling overwhelmed by stress, sadness, anger, fear, self doubt, substance use, shame, and a diminished sense of self or worth. I help them realize that adverse situations do not define them. As we work together, they gain the skills to overcome obstacles and to build positive, reciprocal relationships of value and mutual respect.
(548) 490-0803 View (548) 490-0803
Photo of Stephanie Elizabeth Boyd, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Elmira, ON
Stephanie Elizabeth Boyd
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q), Reg PT
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2V
Are you facing a challenge and needing to find a way forward? Sometimes life is hard. Our lives include many experiences, including grief, loss, anxiety, and conflicts. Everyone deserves the opportunity to grow and live life to the fullest. As a spiritually integrated psychotherapist, I do not shy away from existential questions or exploring our place in the world. I am passionate about holistic treatment approaches. I am not a religious therapist, and I enjoy working with others from all faith backgrounds, including those who identify as agnostic or atheist.
Are you facing a challenge and needing to find a way forward? Sometimes life is hard. Our lives include many experiences, including grief, loss, anxiety, and conflicts. Everyone deserves the opportunity to grow and live life to the fullest. As a spiritually integrated psychotherapist, I do not shy away from existential questions or exploring our place in the world. I am passionate about holistic treatment approaches. I am not a religious therapist, and I enjoy working with others from all faith backgrounds, including those who identify as agnostic or atheist.
View
Photo of Krysta Hart, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Elmira, ON
Krysta Hart
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed with all of life’s responsibilities? Are you and your partner looking to “fight right”? Have you recently experienced a life transition or loss and looking to rebuild? These are just a few reasons that therapy can be exactly what you never knew you needed. Reaching out for help takes courage and shows strength. I’m here to help you on your journey and to find your inner strengths to overcome life’s challenges.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed with all of life’s responsibilities? Are you and your partner looking to “fight right”? Have you recently experienced a life transition or loss and looking to rebuild? These are just a few reasons that therapy can be exactly what you never knew you needed. Reaching out for help takes courage and shows strength. I’m here to help you on your journey and to find your inner strengths to overcome life’s challenges.
(226) 756-2204 View (226) 756-2204

See more therapy options for Elmira

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.