Grief Therapists in Oro Station, ON

Photo of Tracie Atkinson, Counsellor
Tracie Atkinson
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Oro Station, ON L0L
With over 8 years experience as an Emergency Crisis Responder, I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact tragedy can have on individuals and families alike. The physical and emotional effect on those that have been victims of a crime or have experienced sudden loss can be overwhelming. It is because of this work I’ve devoted my practice to helping victims understand and comprehend their emotions and circumstances. By providing a safe, supportive and confidential environment, together we will work on processing the trauma and start the journey towards healing.
With over 8 years experience as an Emergency Crisis Responder, I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact tragedy can have on individuals and families alike. The physical and emotional effect on those that have been victims of a crime or have experienced sudden loss can be overwhelming. It is because of this work I’ve devoted my practice to helping victims understand and comprehend their emotions and circumstances. By providing a safe, supportive and confidential environment, together we will work on processing the trauma and start the journey towards healing.
(249) 294-1228 View (249) 294-1228
Photo of Robyn Cottrell, BA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Robyn Cottrell
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
Oro Station, ON L0L
ADHD, Emotions, Relationships/Couples, Anxiety/Stress- You're having a hard time concentrating and getting things done. You struggle to find motivation to complete your daily tasks and then feel down about yourself. You struggle with shifting moods and don't know how to cope. When anxiety and overwhelm take over, it can be hard to function because your concentration and motivation start to slip. And, if you struggle with low mood and negative self-talk, it can be hard to get out of that "funk" and shift to a more productive mindset.
ADHD, Emotions, Relationships/Couples, Anxiety/Stress- You're having a hard time concentrating and getting things done. You struggle to find motivation to complete your daily tasks and then feel down about yourself. You struggle with shifting moods and don't know how to cope. When anxiety and overwhelm take over, it can be hard to function because your concentration and motivation start to slip. And, if you struggle with low mood and negative self-talk, it can be hard to get out of that "funk" and shift to a more productive mindset.
(249) 523-5275 View (249) 523-5275
Photo of Amber Sperling - Amber Sperling Social Work & Psychotherapy Service, MSW, RSW, PMH-C, EMDRIA, Registered Social Worker
Amber Sperling Social Work & Psychotherapy Service
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, PMH-C, EMDRIA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oro Station, ON L0L
Change even when positive, can leave you feeling lost: a new baby, an unexpected event or feeling like your life is suddenly not your own. Have you noticed small things are overwhelming, you feel irritable, are emotional out of nowhere and feel alone? If you are feeling unable to handle the impact of life - from parenthood, menopause, work or trauma - we can help. Now more than ever, parents are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body.
Change even when positive, can leave you feeling lost: a new baby, an unexpected event or feeling like your life is suddenly not your own. Have you noticed small things are overwhelming, you feel irritable, are emotional out of nowhere and feel alone? If you are feeling unable to handle the impact of life - from parenthood, menopause, work or trauma - we can help. Now more than ever, parents are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body.
(249) 487-0760 View (249) 487-0760
Photo of Shannon Carney, RSW, BSW, Registered Social Worker
Shannon Carney
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW
Verified Verified
Oro Station, ON L0L  (Online Only)
Are you or your child experiencing overwhelm and negotiating daily life barriers that are largely unseen by others? It can be discouraging when one often has to work longer and harder than others to complete the same tasks/ achieve the same outcomes. You might have lived experience with learning differences, sensory processing sensitivities, or chronic conditions that impact your overall functioning.
Are you or your child experiencing overwhelm and negotiating daily life barriers that are largely unseen by others? It can be discouraging when one often has to work longer and harder than others to complete the same tasks/ achieve the same outcomes. You might have lived experience with learning differences, sensory processing sensitivities, or chronic conditions that impact your overall functioning.
(437) 800-0893 View (437) 800-0893
Photo of Jennifer Mather, MSW, RSW, PMH-C, Registered Social Worker
Jennifer Mather
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oro Station, ON L0L
Waitlist for new clients
You are here because life is not bringing the joy you anticipated: You imagined life with a baby to be joyful and more fulfilling. You are disconnected, on edge, teary or angry without knowing why. Relationships are triggering your past or you feel you must not be like your parents, but how? Maybe you are having flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, nightmares or your relationship patterns stop you from feeling safe, present or able to calm your anxious body. You just can't cope anymore, or want someone to support you in a way that does not feel like extra work. You need space to process this new life and the life that came before.
You are here because life is not bringing the joy you anticipated: You imagined life with a baby to be joyful and more fulfilling. You are disconnected, on edge, teary or angry without knowing why. Relationships are triggering your past or you feel you must not be like your parents, but how? Maybe you are having flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, nightmares or your relationship patterns stop you from feeling safe, present or able to calm your anxious body. You just can't cope anymore, or want someone to support you in a way that does not feel like extra work. You need space to process this new life and the life that came before.
(249) 487-0760 View (249) 487-0760
Photo of Stephanie Crema, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Stephanie Crema
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oro Station, ON L0L  (Online Only)
Change and healing are possible and you don't have to do it alone. As a therapist, I take a holistic, non-pathologizing, and neurodivergent affirming approach to helping my clients heal from trauma, find peace with themselves and their emotions, cope with life challenges, and cultivate gentle self-compassion. I support adults (18+) and couples who struggle with a variety of challenges, and as a late diagnosed neurodivergent therapist, I have a special passion in working with late-diagnosed ADHD and autism. I also support parents in navigating the challenges of fertility, pregnancy, parenthood, and postpartum anxiety/depression.
Change and healing are possible and you don't have to do it alone. As a therapist, I take a holistic, non-pathologizing, and neurodivergent affirming approach to helping my clients heal from trauma, find peace with themselves and their emotions, cope with life challenges, and cultivate gentle self-compassion. I support adults (18+) and couples who struggle with a variety of challenges, and as a late diagnosed neurodivergent therapist, I have a special passion in working with late-diagnosed ADHD and autism. I also support parents in navigating the challenges of fertility, pregnancy, parenthood, and postpartum anxiety/depression.
(249) 444-3145 View (249) 444-3145
Photo of Pantea Ahmadian, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Pantea Ahmadian
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
Oro Station, ON L0L
Are you feeling stuck in the same patterns? Overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or major life changes? You’re not alone—life can be incredibly challenging. I specialize in helping with anxiety, self-esteem, coping skills, and family and relationship issues. Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or dealing with career stress, I’m here to support you in reclaiming your authentic self and putting your needs first.
Are you feeling stuck in the same patterns? Overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or major life changes? You’re not alone—life can be incredibly challenging. I specialize in helping with anxiety, self-esteem, coping skills, and family and relationship issues. Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or dealing with career stress, I’m here to support you in reclaiming your authentic self and putting your needs first.
(289) 763-9898 View (289) 763-9898

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Paulette Light, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Paulette Light
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elmvale, ON L0L
I have experience working in community settings, supporting individuals impacted by grief & bereavement, anxiety, depression, stress, and adjustment issues.
Do you need someone to talk to that can help you to process feelings and thoughts, help you identify skills for coping, and build on your inner strengths? If you are not feeling like yourself, or you are struggling with mental health concerns, please contact me for a complimentary phone consultation to discuss how I might be able to help you on your way to feeling better.
I have experience working in community settings, supporting individuals impacted by grief & bereavement, anxiety, depression, stress, and adjustment issues.
Do you need someone to talk to that can help you to process feelings and thoughts, help you identify skills for coping, and build on your inner strengths? If you are not feeling like yourself, or you are struggling with mental health concerns, please contact me for a complimentary phone consultation to discuss how I might be able to help you on your way to feeling better.
(249) 500-5371 View (249) 500-5371
Photo of Maya Oakes, RP- Q, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Maya Oakes
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP- Q
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
Navigating the complexities of life can feel overwhelming and I want you to know that you don’t have to navigate them alone. I am committed to offering support to adolescents and adults experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, stress, depression, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions and/or self-esteem. My intention is to offer you a compassionate and non-judgmental space where it feels safe to navigate self-discovery, focusing on what you can do create a fulfilling and meaningful life. We will work toward developing a strong sense of self, building self-compassion and resiliency, and effective coping strategies.
Navigating the complexities of life can feel overwhelming and I want you to know that you don’t have to navigate them alone. I am committed to offering support to adolescents and adults experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, stress, depression, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions and/or self-esteem. My intention is to offer you a compassionate and non-judgmental space where it feels safe to navigate self-discovery, focusing on what you can do create a fulfilling and meaningful life. We will work toward developing a strong sense of self, building self-compassion and resiliency, and effective coping strategies.
(289) 302-5982 View (289) 302-5982
Photo of Laura Fess - Vox Mental Health, CYW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Vox Mental Health
Registered Social Worker, CYW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
We are trained to support you with any of the following: Stress & Anxiety, Body Image, Marriage Conflict, Family Dynamics + Parenting, Depression, Couples Infidelity, Boundary Setting, Teens, Trauma, Self Esteem & Efficacy, Grief & Loss, Isolation & Loneliness, Body & Food, Attachment Disorders, Developmental Trauma, Moral Injury, Burnout, & Racial Identity.
VOX Mental Health is a person-centred, trauma informed counselling practice that is committed to creating a safe, judgement free, supportive environment where you can begin to use your voice. Whether it is setting boundaries, processing your family of origin, working through marriage difficulties, setting goals, or developing coping tools for anxiety, we are here to support you and create a tailor-made treatment plan unique to you and your situation. We offer both virtual and in-person sessions that service individuals, families, and couples in Ontario Canada.
We are trained to support you with any of the following: Stress & Anxiety, Body Image, Marriage Conflict, Family Dynamics + Parenting, Depression, Couples Infidelity, Boundary Setting, Teens, Trauma, Self Esteem & Efficacy, Grief & Loss, Isolation & Loneliness, Body & Food, Attachment Disorders, Developmental Trauma, Moral Injury, Burnout, & Racial Identity.
VOX Mental Health is a person-centred, trauma informed counselling practice that is committed to creating a safe, judgement free, supportive environment where you can begin to use your voice. Whether it is setting boundaries, processing your family of origin, working through marriage difficulties, setting goals, or developing coping tools for anxiety, we are here to support you and create a tailor-made treatment plan unique to you and your situation. We offer both virtual and in-person sessions that service individuals, families, and couples in Ontario Canada.
(249) 487-0951 View (249) 487-0951
Photo of Sandra Corelli, RP-Q, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sandra Corelli
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP-Q
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M  (Online Only)
Welcome to a space where you can be unapologetically human. I know life might feel heavy right now, and you might not know where to start. You may be carrying worries, fears, sadness, or regret. You may feel lonely, anxious, overwhelmed, or burned out. You may be thinking, “I just want to understand why I feel this way!” The reality is that life can be messy and full of unexpected twists and turns. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, grief, depression, relationship issues, a career transition, or you are navigating a chronic illness or autoimmune condition, I am here to support you without judgment.
Welcome to a space where you can be unapologetically human. I know life might feel heavy right now, and you might not know where to start. You may be carrying worries, fears, sadness, or regret. You may feel lonely, anxious, overwhelmed, or burned out. You may be thinking, “I just want to understand why I feel this way!” The reality is that life can be messy and full of unexpected twists and turns. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, grief, depression, relationship issues, a career transition, or you are navigating a chronic illness or autoimmune condition, I am here to support you without judgment.
(647) 250-9704 View (647) 250-9704
Photo of Raluca Petridis, RP, MA, CCC, EMDR, Registered Psychotherapist
Raluca Petridis
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, CCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
As a bereaved parent myself (miscarriages & neonatal death), I am passionate about working with other bereaved parents as well as those experiencing any loss.
Are you feeling stressed? Overwhelmed? Anxious? Depressed? Do you have low self-esteem or low self confidence? Do you feel as though you've lost yourself? I offer a therapy space where you can be yourself, a place that welcomes you as you are, in all your true colours, with your raw & unedited thoughts & emotions. Whatever you're experiencing, you're not alone. Together, we can navigate your current circumstances and find healthier coping mechanisms to move you towards your goals.
As a bereaved parent myself (miscarriages & neonatal death), I am passionate about working with other bereaved parents as well as those experiencing any loss.
Are you feeling stressed? Overwhelmed? Anxious? Depressed? Do you have low self-esteem or low self confidence? Do you feel as though you've lost yourself? I offer a therapy space where you can be yourself, a place that welcomes you as you are, in all your true colours, with your raw & unedited thoughts & emotions. Whatever you're experiencing, you're not alone. Together, we can navigate your current circumstances and find healthier coping mechanisms to move you towards your goals.
(289) 763-9898 View (289) 763-9898
Photo of Lisa Woodcock, BA, BSW, MA, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Lisa Woodcock
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MA, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Life can be difficult. We all experience challenges and could benefit from working through them with the help of someone else. For over 25 years, I have supported individuals with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, parenting, life transitions, compassion fatigue, burnout, and grief related to sudden death, suicide or homicide. Supporting growth from a place of loss or crisis is my passion and I believe in working together to make any struggle more manageable.
Life can be difficult. We all experience challenges and could benefit from working through them with the help of someone else. For over 25 years, I have supported individuals with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, parenting, life transitions, compassion fatigue, burnout, and grief related to sudden death, suicide or homicide. Supporting growth from a place of loss or crisis is my passion and I believe in working together to make any struggle more manageable.
(289) 723-1934 View (289) 723-1934
Photo of Jillian Langtry - Simply Connected Therapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Simply Connected Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
We specialize in working with trauma and have expertise in areas such as complex trauma, couples therapy, anxiety, grief, sports performance, depression and relationships.
We are accepting new clients! As therapists, we believe in the incredible power of connection. Building a therapeutic relationship with you is at the core of our practice together. We strive to create a safe and empathetic space where you can feel truly heard AND seen. Through this connection, we can explore and heal while fostering growth and transformation.
We specialize in working with trauma and have expertise in areas such as complex trauma, couples therapy, anxiety, grief, sports performance, depression and relationships.
We are accepting new clients! As therapists, we believe in the incredible power of connection. Building a therapeutic relationship with you is at the core of our practice together. We strive to create a safe and empathetic space where you can feel truly heard AND seen. Through this connection, we can explore and heal while fostering growth and transformation.
(343) 338-5468 View (343) 338-5468
Photo of Kim M Kitchen, MA, RP, OAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist
Kim M Kitchen
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, OAMHP
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
I worked for 17 years providing community based therapy/counselling as an Addictions Therapist with a premier mental health and addictions hospital. Recently I have been the Senior Clinician with a community based mental health services program. I offer personalized and confidential services with a non-judgemental, empathic, and supportive approach. Along with Addiction based services for individuals and their family members, I have worked extensively with parent-teen and family based conflict, relationships, domestic violence, trauma, anger management and conflict resolution, mental health (eg. anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, OCD, stress, suicide) as well as school refusal and peer difficulties.
I worked for 17 years providing community based therapy/counselling as an Addictions Therapist with a premier mental health and addictions hospital. Recently I have been the Senior Clinician with a community based mental health services program. I offer personalized and confidential services with a non-judgemental, empathic, and supportive approach. Along with Addiction based services for individuals and their family members, I have worked extensively with parent-teen and family based conflict, relationships, domestic violence, trauma, anger management and conflict resolution, mental health (eg. anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, OCD, stress, suicide) as well as school refusal and peer difficulties.
(844) 334-6624 View (844) 334-6624
Photo of Roberta (Robbi) Currie, RP, BAPsych, Registered Psychotherapist
Roberta (Robbi) Currie
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BAPsych
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
I invite you to reflect together on the roads you have travelled as we align with your authentic self. You may be experiencing loss and grief, anxiety, depression, suffering rooted in childhood, relationship, or career. We will compassionately bear witness to your story, identifying strengths and building resilience. We will restore a sense of joy, hope and meaning in your life. My approach is mindfulness-based and grounded in compassionate inquiry. Aspects of didactic, cognitive, behavioural, acceptance and commitment modalities are interwoven throughout sessions.
I invite you to reflect together on the roads you have travelled as we align with your authentic self. You may be experiencing loss and grief, anxiety, depression, suffering rooted in childhood, relationship, or career. We will compassionately bear witness to your story, identifying strengths and building resilience. We will restore a sense of joy, hope and meaning in your life. My approach is mindfulness-based and grounded in compassionate inquiry. Aspects of didactic, cognitive, behavioural, acceptance and commitment modalities are interwoven throughout sessions.
(705) 805-1736 View (705) 805-1736
Photo of Raluca Petridis, MACP, CCC, EMDR, Registered Psychotherapist
Raluca Petridis
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, CCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
As a bereaved parent myself (miscarriages & neonatal death), I am passionate about working with other bereaved parents as well as those experiencing any loss.
Are you feeling stressed? Overwhelmed? Anxious? Depressed? Do you have low self-esteem or low self confidence? Do you feel as though you've lost yourself? I offer a therapy space where you can be yourself, a place that welcomes you as you are, in all your true colours, with your raw & unedited thoughts & emotions. Whatever you're experiencing, you're not alone. Together, we can navigate your current circumstances and find healthier coping mechanisms to move you towards your goals.
As a bereaved parent myself (miscarriages & neonatal death), I am passionate about working with other bereaved parents as well as those experiencing any loss.
Are you feeling stressed? Overwhelmed? Anxious? Depressed? Do you have low self-esteem or low self confidence? Do you feel as though you've lost yourself? I offer a therapy space where you can be yourself, a place that welcomes you as you are, in all your true colours, with your raw & unedited thoughts & emotions. Whatever you're experiencing, you're not alone. Together, we can navigate your current circumstances and find healthier coping mechanisms to move you towards your goals.
(289) 969-9898 View (289) 969-9898
Photo of Colin Hayward, Registered Psychotherapist
Colin Hayward
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Are you experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, or feelings of low self-esteem? Are you having trouble navigating your way through the loss of a loved one, a challenging relationship, or simply struggling to find meaning in your life? Many of us are knocked backwards by negative events that seem to unearth past hurts and make navigating our present and future more difficult. There are times when we need support and encouragement from outside of ourselves to help us navigate this inner world and push ourselves forward in our lives.
Are you experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, or feelings of low self-esteem? Are you having trouble navigating your way through the loss of a loved one, a challenging relationship, or simply struggling to find meaning in your life? Many of us are knocked backwards by negative events that seem to unearth past hurts and make navigating our present and future more difficult. There are times when we need support and encouragement from outside of ourselves to help us navigate this inner world and push ourselves forward in our lives.
(647) 696-5751 View (647) 696-5751
Photo of Jennifer Kerr, RSSW, BASc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Jennifer Kerr
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RSSW, BASc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
My specialties include working with childhood trauma, grief, couples counselling, estranged relationships and more.
Working through a trauma-informed lens, I use both a psychodynamic and humanistic approach with my clients. What I like to call "connecting the dots", I get an in-depth understanding of how your past experiences interrelate to your present ones. Specializing in childhood trauma, complex grief and couples counselling, I work with you and your nervous system to help reframe maladaptive thoughts and behaviors that are no longer serving you. I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to explore and understand your counselling goals.
My specialties include working with childhood trauma, grief, couples counselling, estranged relationships and more.
Working through a trauma-informed lens, I use both a psychodynamic and humanistic approach with my clients. What I like to call "connecting the dots", I get an in-depth understanding of how your past experiences interrelate to your present ones. Specializing in childhood trauma, complex grief and couples counselling, I work with you and your nervous system to help reframe maladaptive thoughts and behaviors that are no longer serving you. I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to explore and understand your counselling goals.
(249) 702-0916 View (249) 702-0916
Photo of Jessica O'Connor - Vault Mental Health - Barrie , Registered Social Worker
Vault Mental Health - Barrie
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Our goal is to match you with the ideal therapist who aligns with your unique treatment needs and lifestyle! Our specialties include: Depression, Anxiety & Stress, Addiction, Self Esteem & Self Esteem & Confidence, Life Transitions, Relationship/ Marriage Support, Isolation & Loneliness, Anger Management, Boundary Setting, Grief & Loss, Trauma & PTSD & More!.
At Vault Mental Health, we can connect you to a therapist best suited for you. It takes courage to initiate therapy but investing in your well-being is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. Whether you are seeking to learn strategies to cope with life's ups and downs, tools to manage challenging emotions, or support with difficult life events, it is our privilege to be here for you. Our diversely skilled group of Registered Psychotherapists and Registered Social Workers are here to help you get results. We will create a tailor-made treatment plan unique to you and your situation.
Our goal is to match you with the ideal therapist who aligns with your unique treatment needs and lifestyle! Our specialties include: Depression, Anxiety & Stress, Addiction, Self Esteem & Self Esteem & Confidence, Life Transitions, Relationship/ Marriage Support, Isolation & Loneliness, Anger Management, Boundary Setting, Grief & Loss, Trauma & PTSD & More!.
At Vault Mental Health, we can connect you to a therapist best suited for you. It takes courage to initiate therapy but investing in your well-being is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. Whether you are seeking to learn strategies to cope with life's ups and downs, tools to manage challenging emotions, or support with difficult life events, it is our privilege to be here for you. Our diversely skilled group of Registered Psychotherapists and Registered Social Workers are here to help you get results. We will create a tailor-made treatment plan unique to you and your situation.
(249) 492-9384 View (249) 492-9384

See more therapy options for Oro Station

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.