Grief Therapists in Wasaga Beach, ON

Photo of Pat Guillet, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Pat Guillet
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z
Waitlist for new clients
I am accepting new clients for counselling and for my FREE Trauma Recovery Group on Tuesday nights. I offer compassionate therapy for trauma, grief, eating disorders, addictions, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, sexual orientation, serious mental health issues, dissociation, chronic pain, concussions, childhood abuse, relocation issues, sleep, anger or anything else. Everyone gets stuck from time to time. You don't have to be alone any more. I will adapt my style to your individual needs. I believe that behind your struggles is an astonishing ability to find hope, healing, strength, creativity, connection and fulfillment.
I am accepting new clients for counselling and for my FREE Trauma Recovery Group on Tuesday nights. I offer compassionate therapy for trauma, grief, eating disorders, addictions, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, sexual orientation, serious mental health issues, dissociation, chronic pain, concussions, childhood abuse, relocation issues, sleep, anger or anything else. Everyone gets stuck from time to time. You don't have to be alone any more. I will adapt my style to your individual needs. I believe that behind your struggles is an astonishing ability to find hope, healing, strength, creativity, connection and fulfillment.
(705) 710-5472 View (705) 710-5472
Photo of Heather Evans, RP , BAHon, MDiv, OAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist
Heather Evans
Registered Psychotherapist, RP , BAHon, MDiv, OAMHP
Verified Verified
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z  (Online Only)
I also support adults experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, meaninglessness, life changes, loss of identity and have seen a lot of growth.
Hi, I am Heather! I provide therapy for those looking to understand themselves more and those looking for relief and change. I practice with a relaxed demeanor and sense of humor. If you are tired, misunderstood and unsure of what next and how to make sense of it all, I get that and would be happy to support you in greater self exploration! I am also a wife and mother of three and understand that we all wear multiple hats and that this is a real challenge to manage it all. I see how inter-related ours thoughts, feelings, behaviors and states are and support clients towards greater balance and confidence.
I also support adults experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, meaninglessness, life changes, loss of identity and have seen a lot of growth.
Hi, I am Heather! I provide therapy for those looking to understand themselves more and those looking for relief and change. I practice with a relaxed demeanor and sense of humor. If you are tired, misunderstood and unsure of what next and how to make sense of it all, I get that and would be happy to support you in greater self exploration! I am also a wife and mother of three and understand that we all wear multiple hats and that this is a real challenge to manage it all. I see how inter-related ours thoughts, feelings, behaviors and states are and support clients towards greater balance and confidence.
(705) 607-6305 View (705) 607-6305
Photo of Mary Ann Macri, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Mary Ann Macri
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z
I have had the privilege to counsel many individuals, couples and groups over the past 3 decades. Whether you're experiencing distressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief, chronic sadness, faltering relationships or a sense of loss of meaning, you are not alone. I am dedicated to holding a compassionate and safe space where whatever you need to express can be seen and heard without judgment or agenda. I draw upon proven counselling tools to help create an atmosphere for change and wellness for clients of all ages, backgrounds, ethnicities, gender and sexual preference.
I have had the privilege to counsel many individuals, couples and groups over the past 3 decades. Whether you're experiencing distressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief, chronic sadness, faltering relationships or a sense of loss of meaning, you are not alone. I am dedicated to holding a compassionate and safe space where whatever you need to express can be seen and heard without judgment or agenda. I draw upon proven counselling tools to help create an atmosphere for change and wellness for clients of all ages, backgrounds, ethnicities, gender and sexual preference.
(855) 999-2131 View (855) 999-2131
Photo of Calvin David McConnell - Real Talk Therapy, BMT, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Real Talk Therapy
Registered Social Worker, BMT, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z
I also work with Individuals who are experiencing Life Challenges including Depression, Trauma, Addictions, Abuse, Loss and Life Transitions.
Real Talk Therapy comes from my real life experiences on the floors of hospitals, agencies and treatment centres. This background has helped to create a 20 year+ private practice that is grounded, direct and well informed. Although my Master's degree in Clinical Social Work (MSW) has been a great foundation, my interest has always been about the art and delivery of a great counselling experience. To that end I offer you a safe place to explore, express and experience your next steps. My ten years as a frontline therapist on the PTSD program at Homewood Health Centre in Guelph is a solid rescource of experience.
I also work with Individuals who are experiencing Life Challenges including Depression, Trauma, Addictions, Abuse, Loss and Life Transitions.
Real Talk Therapy comes from my real life experiences on the floors of hospitals, agencies and treatment centres. This background has helped to create a 20 year+ private practice that is grounded, direct and well informed. Although my Master's degree in Clinical Social Work (MSW) has been a great foundation, my interest has always been about the art and delivery of a great counselling experience. To that end I offer you a safe place to explore, express and experience your next steps. My ten years as a frontline therapist on the PTSD program at Homewood Health Centre in Guelph is a solid rescource of experience.
(705) 243-9211 View (705) 243-9211
Photo of Geoff Ayton, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Geoff Ayton
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z
There are times in our life when it feels like nothing we do makes a difference. Problems become complicated by issues associated with our struggles managing mood or anxiety, feelings of shame, or coping with grief and loss. Situations such as transitions related to life stages, conflict or loss of connection in significant relationships, or changes in mental well being can be distressing and overwhelming. I work hard to build collaborative alliances with clients to co-construct different narratives about our relationship with problems, and develop alternative personal stories of strength, growth and recovery.
There are times in our life when it feels like nothing we do makes a difference. Problems become complicated by issues associated with our struggles managing mood or anxiety, feelings of shame, or coping with grief and loss. Situations such as transitions related to life stages, conflict or loss of connection in significant relationships, or changes in mental well being can be distressing and overwhelming. I work hard to build collaborative alliances with clients to co-construct different narratives about our relationship with problems, and develop alternative personal stories of strength, growth and recovery.
(705) 995-0167 View (705) 995-0167
Photo of Sarah Schell, BA, HBSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sarah Schell
Registered Social Worker, BA, HBSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z  (Online Only)
My passion lies in providing support for grief and bereavement.
Hello, I'm Sarah - a Registered Social Worker and an associate at Northern Therapy Collective, a virtual counselling and psychotherapy service for anyone residing in the beautiful province of Ontario. We are a skilled team of professionals dedicated to providing compassionate and client-centered care. I graduated from Lakehead University with a Bachelor or Arts (Criminology) and Honours Bachelor of Social Work (HBSW). I have experience supporting grief and bereavement, palliative care, geriatric care, adult mental health, forensic psychiatric care, and supported those involved in the criminal justice system.
My passion lies in providing support for grief and bereavement.
Hello, I'm Sarah - a Registered Social Worker and an associate at Northern Therapy Collective, a virtual counselling and psychotherapy service for anyone residing in the beautiful province of Ontario. We are a skilled team of professionals dedicated to providing compassionate and client-centered care. I graduated from Lakehead University with a Bachelor or Arts (Criminology) and Honours Bachelor of Social Work (HBSW). I have experience supporting grief and bereavement, palliative care, geriatric care, adult mental health, forensic psychiatric care, and supported those involved in the criminal justice system.
(249) 490-4613 View (249) 490-4613
Photo of Leah Juras, BA Hons, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Leah Juras
Registered Psychotherapist, BA Hons, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include eating disorders, anxiety, trauma, and I have a special interest in pregnancy loss and infertility.
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. I'm a client-centred, integrative psychotherapist who meets you where you are at. My approach is gentle initially, and I work alongside you to determine goals and hopes for therapy. I strive to provide a safe, empathetic, and neutral space for you to freely discuss your thoughts, feelings, emotions, etc. I aim to instil hope, and guide you to a place in which you feel you are heading towards the person you are aiming to be. Together we will move at a pace that feels comfortable to you, and I both welcome and encourage ongoing feedback to ensure you are getting what you need from sessions.
My areas of expertise include eating disorders, anxiety, trauma, and I have a special interest in pregnancy loss and infertility.
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. I'm a client-centred, integrative psychotherapist who meets you where you are at. My approach is gentle initially, and I work alongside you to determine goals and hopes for therapy. I strive to provide a safe, empathetic, and neutral space for you to freely discuss your thoughts, feelings, emotions, etc. I aim to instil hope, and guide you to a place in which you feel you are heading towards the person you are aiming to be. Together we will move at a pace that feels comfortable to you, and I both welcome and encourage ongoing feedback to ensure you are getting what you need from sessions.
(249) 202-2540 View (249) 202-2540
Photo of Lisbeth Nielsen, MA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Lisbeth Nielsen
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MACP
Verified Verified
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z  (Online Only)
I also have an interest in supporting those dealing with pregnancy, postpartum, perinatal loss, and birth trauma.
We all face challenges in life and sometimes we need help along the way. Painful experiences can leave us feeling disconnected, stuck in heavy emotions and struggling to change unhelpful patterns within ourselves and our relationships. You deserve to be heard, validated and understood, so that you can share your story and begin to heal. Healing and growth are possible, even after painful events. Together, we can make connections between the past and the present, build your self-compassion and find new ways of coping. I hope to support you as you gain new insights into yourself and discover a new way forward.
I also have an interest in supporting those dealing with pregnancy, postpartum, perinatal loss, and birth trauma.
We all face challenges in life and sometimes we need help along the way. Painful experiences can leave us feeling disconnected, stuck in heavy emotions and struggling to change unhelpful patterns within ourselves and our relationships. You deserve to be heard, validated and understood, so that you can share your story and begin to heal. Healing and growth are possible, even after painful events. Together, we can make connections between the past and the present, build your self-compassion and find new ways of coping. I hope to support you as you gain new insights into yourself and discover a new way forward.
(249) 523-4966 View (249) 523-4966
Photo of The Dot Collingwood - The Dot Canada, RP, RSW, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
The Dot Canada
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RSW, MA
Verified Verified
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z  (Online Only)
The mental health professionals at The Dot are trained in many different types of therapy that can help with issues related to trauma, grief, relationship issues (yes we do couples counselling) depression, anxiety and more.
It's not just you, life HAS gotten harder in the last few years. If you've been powering through, staying strong and carrying on, but now you're barely getting by and you're tired of feeling like you're not really living your life, it might be time for outside support. The benefit of therapy is that it's a time where you get to focus on yourself, to look at your life, and to get an outside perspective on how it could be different. You don't have to just endure, with the right support, you can heal from the past, and move forward towards a better future.
The mental health professionals at The Dot are trained in many different types of therapy that can help with issues related to trauma, grief, relationship issues (yes we do couples counselling) depression, anxiety and more.
It's not just you, life HAS gotten harder in the last few years. If you've been powering through, staying strong and carrying on, but now you're barely getting by and you're tired of feeling like you're not really living your life, it might be time for outside support. The benefit of therapy is that it's a time where you get to focus on yourself, to look at your life, and to get an outside perspective on how it could be different. You don't have to just endure, with the right support, you can heal from the past, and move forward towards a better future.
(249) 490-4432 View (249) 490-4432
Photo of Charlotte Hammill, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Charlotte Hammill
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z
Mental health is nested within a network of relationships and our past experience. In therapy, we work together to untangle these networks to build awareness and form new and useful habits or patterns that serve you and your loved ones. I work with youth and adults managing low mood/self-esteem, depression/suicide, anxiety, ADHD, eating and body image concerns, relationship difficulties (family, romantic etc.), grief, and day to day stressors.
Mental health is nested within a network of relationships and our past experience. In therapy, we work together to untangle these networks to build awareness and form new and useful habits or patterns that serve you and your loved ones. I work with youth and adults managing low mood/self-esteem, depression/suicide, anxiety, ADHD, eating and body image concerns, relationship difficulties (family, romantic etc.), grief, and day to day stressors.
(249) 503-3455 View (249) 503-3455
Photo of Desiree Frenette, RSW, BSW, CYCP, Registered Social Worker
Desiree Frenette
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW, CYCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z
My own lived experiences with trauma, mental health challenges, substance use, and sudden loss, have brought me into this field and are what help me deeply empathize with what it's like to be in your shoes.
A compassionate, non-judgemental holistic integrative therapist offering a safe space to help those who struggle with the effects of trauma, substance use, grief, or mood or anxiety-related challenges. If you feel overwhelmed, stuck in survival mode, or tired of how things are going, let's talk and work together to find your unique path to healing your mind, body, and spirit. Through an interconnected approach, I emphasize understanding people's strengths, childhood experiences, relationships, and the systemic impacts on our lives.
My own lived experiences with trauma, mental health challenges, substance use, and sudden loss, have brought me into this field and are what help me deeply empathize with what it's like to be in your shoes.
A compassionate, non-judgemental holistic integrative therapist offering a safe space to help those who struggle with the effects of trauma, substance use, grief, or mood or anxiety-related challenges. If you feel overwhelmed, stuck in survival mode, or tired of how things are going, let's talk and work together to find your unique path to healing your mind, body, and spirit. Through an interconnected approach, I emphasize understanding people's strengths, childhood experiences, relationships, and the systemic impacts on our lives.
(249) 444-8102 View (249) 444-8102
Photo of Tracy Bertrand, HBSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Tracy Bertrand
Registered Social Worker, HBSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z  (Online Only)
Making meaning of our lives can become difficult when problems arise that we least expected. What if we have never experienced these things and coping isn't going so well, what do we do? What if the old familiar things keep happening? Sometimes our usual ways of staying focused and present are interrupted, even if we have managed before. I have been part of many healing journeys and one thing is the same in all of us: we must move through the difficulties with support in order to get back to our present. I am here to help you do just that.
Making meaning of our lives can become difficult when problems arise that we least expected. What if we have never experienced these things and coping isn't going so well, what do we do? What if the old familiar things keep happening? Sometimes our usual ways of staying focused and present are interrupted, even if we have managed before. I have been part of many healing journeys and one thing is the same in all of us: we must move through the difficulties with support in order to get back to our present. I am here to help you do just that.
(249) 500-8526 View (249) 500-8526
Photo of Jaime Armstrong, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jaime Armstrong
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling stuck and unable to change how you feel or act? Most likely you have been effected by experiences from your past. Consciously you may understand the value of changing a behaviour, but unless your deeper mind is transformed, change is not likely. Attempting to bring about enduring change without eliminating these "ghosts from the past" is like trying to repair the structure of a building by applying a coat of paint. Using a gentle, painless, and fun approach to therapy, I create immediate and lasting change through brain-changing conversations, teaching you how to stress-proof and play your brain for change.
Have you been feeling stuck and unable to change how you feel or act? Most likely you have been effected by experiences from your past. Consciously you may understand the value of changing a behaviour, but unless your deeper mind is transformed, change is not likely. Attempting to bring about enduring change without eliminating these "ghosts from the past" is like trying to repair the structure of a building by applying a coat of paint. Using a gentle, painless, and fun approach to therapy, I create immediate and lasting change through brain-changing conversations, teaching you how to stress-proof and play your brain for change.
(705) 805-9232 View (705) 805-9232
Photo of Matthew Walker - Walker Wellness Services , BAH, MEd, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Walker Wellness Services
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BAH, MEd, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z  (Online Only)
Being in a smaller community it's important that I run from a general practice standpoint. This means I will work with you to the best of my abilities. I will work with you on your current issues and help you with additional resources. If your looking to get started or have experienced previous counselling from others, I invite you to work with me to see what benefit counselling can be to you.
Being in a smaller community it's important that I run from a general practice standpoint. This means I will work with you to the best of my abilities. I will work with you on your current issues and help you with additional resources. If your looking to get started or have experienced previous counselling from others, I invite you to work with me to see what benefit counselling can be to you.
(249) 501-5220 View (249) 501-5220
Photo of Christa Folz, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Christa Folz
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z
The unexpected has happened and you are not sure where to turn next, who to talk to and how to best support your child. Traumatic events or personal losses can interrupt our sense of safety and direction. I’ve been lucky enough to play and work with children and youth walking this path who are trying to make sense and make meaning of what has happened. I have a Masters degree in Social Work, and I am a registered Social Worker with the OCSWSSW. I’ve been in practice for 25 years and have trained in various approaches including attachment based, EMDR, TFCBT, Mindfulness, Yoga Therapy, MST, and various play and energetic modalities.
The unexpected has happened and you are not sure where to turn next, who to talk to and how to best support your child. Traumatic events or personal losses can interrupt our sense of safety and direction. I’ve been lucky enough to play and work with children and youth walking this path who are trying to make sense and make meaning of what has happened. I have a Masters degree in Social Work, and I am a registered Social Worker with the OCSWSSW. I’ve been in practice for 25 years and have trained in various approaches including attachment based, EMDR, TFCBT, Mindfulness, Yoga Therapy, MST, and various play and energetic modalities.
(249) 444-0240 View (249) 444-0240
Photo of Tina Stanley, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Tina Stanley
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z
A warm welcome! I believe in change, I believe in possibility and I believe in potential. Therapy is growth. It's taking you from where you are right now and guiding you gently to where you want to be through education, empowerment, experience, personal commitment and practice. At Touchstone Healing your feelings, emotions, beliefs and pain stories are explored in a safe, relaxed environment dedicated to honor and validate your experience. We then work together with the goal of moving into acceptance and release to create space for a more positive and meaningful experience of life.
A warm welcome! I believe in change, I believe in possibility and I believe in potential. Therapy is growth. It's taking you from where you are right now and guiding you gently to where you want to be through education, empowerment, experience, personal commitment and practice. At Touchstone Healing your feelings, emotions, beliefs and pain stories are explored in a safe, relaxed environment dedicated to honor and validate your experience. We then work together with the goal of moving into acceptance and release to create space for a more positive and meaningful experience of life.
(705) 980-1001 View (705) 980-1001
Photo of Wendy Hunter, ECE, BA, (Psych), RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Wendy Hunter
Registered Psychotherapist, ECE, BA, (Psych), RP
Verified Verified
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Parenting Coach. I have educated and supported families for almost 30 years throughout Simcoe County. I am the owner of In Support Of Children Counselling where I provide individual and family counselling to children, teens, parents and families. I believe that knowledge is power and therefore my focus is to educate my clients by teaching them strategies and coping tools that will help them cope more effectively. I am also a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. My website is - insupportofchildren.com
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Parenting Coach. I have educated and supported families for almost 30 years throughout Simcoe County. I am the owner of In Support Of Children Counselling where I provide individual and family counselling to children, teens, parents and families. I believe that knowledge is power and therefore my focus is to educate my clients by teaching them strategies and coping tools that will help them cope more effectively. I am also a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. My website is - insupportofchildren.com
(705) 243-3249 View (705) 243-3249
Photo of Saira Gokal, BaHons, MA, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Saira Gokal
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BaHons, MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z  (Online Only)
Instagram: bipoc.therapy. With a deep understanding of cultural diversity and a keen eye on your emotional and physical well-being, we'll craft sustainable goals uniquely suited to your needs. In this safe space, your unique story is not only heard but also fully embraced, without any judgment. Our journey together is built on genuine authenticity and compassion, focusing on empowering you every step of the way. Together, we will explore how important systems in your life hold meaning for you. This journey is about creating a tailored vision for us to tackle together, learning new coping skills, and achieving meaningful change.
Instagram: bipoc.therapy. With a deep understanding of cultural diversity and a keen eye on your emotional and physical well-being, we'll craft sustainable goals uniquely suited to your needs. In this safe space, your unique story is not only heard but also fully embraced, without any judgment. Our journey together is built on genuine authenticity and compassion, focusing on empowering you every step of the way. Together, we will explore how important systems in your life hold meaning for you. This journey is about creating a tailored vision for us to tackle together, learning new coping skills, and achieving meaningful change.
(249) 486-6133 View (249) 486-6133
Photo of Diane Rogalski, RP (Q), MACP, DipAT, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Diane Rogalski
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q), MACP, DipAT
Verified Verified
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z
Over the last 20 years, I have worked with individuals and families, of all ages, in a variety of different settings. This has ranged from counselling in a family physician's office to front-line child protection and now, I am returning to private psychotherapy practice. The people I work with have often felt uncomfortable or uncertain about seeking help. They tend to have a sense of how they would like life to be different, but are at times, unsure of how to move forward and start the process of change.
Over the last 20 years, I have worked with individuals and families, of all ages, in a variety of different settings. This has ranged from counselling in a family physician's office to front-line child protection and now, I am returning to private psychotherapy practice. The people I work with have often felt uncomfortable or uncertain about seeking help. They tend to have a sense of how they would like life to be different, but are at times, unsure of how to move forward and start the process of change.
(249) 490-5511 View (249) 490-5511
Photo of Gabrielle Richard, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Gabrielle Richard
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z  (Online Only)
I offer exclusively online sessions while working closely with a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services. As a practitioner, I am dedicated to walking alongside my clients on their path to well-being and supporting them in creating a life they truly love—a beautiful life. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or grappling with personal or relational difficulties, know that you're not alone. I bring empathy and appreciation for each unique journey. My practice is grounded in compassion, empathy, and the belief that everyone deserves a positive, supportive environment to explore their emotions and experiences.
I offer exclusively online sessions while working closely with a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services. As a practitioner, I am dedicated to walking alongside my clients on their path to well-being and supporting them in creating a life they truly love—a beautiful life. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or grappling with personal or relational difficulties, know that you're not alone. I bring empathy and appreciation for each unique journey. My practice is grounded in compassion, empathy, and the belief that everyone deserves a positive, supportive environment to explore their emotions and experiences.
(647) 931-4946 View (647) 931-4946
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Grief Counsellors

How long does therapy take for grief?

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

When should you seek therapy for grief?

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

Can grief be managed without therapy?

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

What happens if grief is left untreated?

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