Bereavement Counselling in Exeter

Photo of Naomi Brookes - Naomi Brookes Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Naomi Brookes Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX1
I work with a variety of issues including loss, grief and bereavement, anxiety, dark thoughts, chronic health conditions, exploring neurodivergence, relationship issues, self-belief, perimenopause and abuse.
Hi I'm Naomi and I know life can sometimes throw curveballs, and we might feel stuck, anxious, or down. I’m here to help you navigate these tough times. I offer individual talk therapy and will walk alongside you, shining a light on the shadows and help you process your emotions. Together, we’ll explore what it means to you and find your purpose again. I’m non-judgmental and curious, wanting to get to know the real you with compassion and dignity. I want to help you find your way again and accept yourself for who you truly are. My goal is to assist you in living your most fulfilling life. We'll talk or use more creative approaches.
I work with a variety of issues including loss, grief and bereavement, anxiety, dark thoughts, chronic health conditions, exploring neurodivergence, relationship issues, self-belief, perimenopause and abuse.
Hi I'm Naomi and I know life can sometimes throw curveballs, and we might feel stuck, anxious, or down. I’m here to help you navigate these tough times. I offer individual talk therapy and will walk alongside you, shining a light on the shadows and help you process your emotions. Together, we’ll explore what it means to you and find your purpose again. I’m non-judgmental and curious, wanting to get to know the real you with compassion and dignity. I want to help you find your way again and accept yourself for who you truly are. My goal is to assist you in living your most fulfilling life. We'll talk or use more creative approaches.
01572 491319 View 01572 491319
Photo of Sharon Teresa Cresswell, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Sharon Teresa Cresswell
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Exeter EX1
BA (Hons) Degree in Fine Art: therapeutic exploration of identity, family, memory, the body, and loss.
Hi Welcome. As a fully qualified and accredited Integrative Psychotherapeutic Counsellor (NCPS), I am dedicated to supporting clients through their life’s challenges. I offer a holistic approach to help you navigate difficult circumstances and find a way forward. Together, we'll work towards realistic goals that foster healing and growth. I offer tailored therapy to suit you.
 Approaches are Person-centred, CBT, gestalt, and mindfulness. I adapt our sessions to your unique needs. Whether Face-Face, video call phone. We can incorporate creative methods for a holistic healing experience, in a safe & supportive environment.
BA (Hons) Degree in Fine Art: therapeutic exploration of identity, family, memory, the body, and loss.
Hi Welcome. As a fully qualified and accredited Integrative Psychotherapeutic Counsellor (NCPS), I am dedicated to supporting clients through their life’s challenges. I offer a holistic approach to help you navigate difficult circumstances and find a way forward. Together, we'll work towards realistic goals that foster healing and growth. I offer tailored therapy to suit you.
 Approaches are Person-centred, CBT, gestalt, and mindfulness. I adapt our sessions to your unique needs. Whether Face-Face, video call phone. We can incorporate creative methods for a holistic healing experience, in a safe & supportive environment.
01392 542386 View 01392 542386
Photo of Catherine Roguski, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Catherine Roguski
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Exeter EX3
I am experienced in working with anxiety, bereavement, chronic health conditions, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, abuse and trauma.
I work ONLINE and Face-to-Face in Topsham. I have over 40 years experience working effectively in private practice as an integrative holistic healthcare practitioner and previously as a nurse in both the NHS and private healthcare specialising in women’s health. My psychotherapeutic counselling practice draws upon several humanistic, psychodynamic and solution focused approaches incorporating the very best techniques including creative ways of working to best fit your needs. I have a lot of life experience both personally and professionally. I am a good listener. I am not easily shocked.
I am experienced in working with anxiety, bereavement, chronic health conditions, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, abuse and trauma.
I work ONLINE and Face-to-Face in Topsham. I have over 40 years experience working effectively in private practice as an integrative holistic healthcare practitioner and previously as a nurse in both the NHS and private healthcare specialising in women’s health. My psychotherapeutic counselling practice draws upon several humanistic, psychodynamic and solution focused approaches incorporating the very best techniques including creative ways of working to best fit your needs. I have a lot of life experience both personally and professionally. I am a good listener. I am not easily shocked.
01392 549042 View 01392 549042
Photo of Paul Brennan, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Paul Brennan
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Exeter EX2
I support people dealing with all forms of grief, loss and change.
As an Integrative Counsellor and Therapist, I draw on various evidence based approaches to support clients struggling with loss, change, worry and anxiety. I work with you to find out what approach best suits your needs and, if appropriate, your goals. I have certified training in online support, if that approach suits you best.
I support people dealing with all forms of grief, loss and change.
As an Integrative Counsellor and Therapist, I draw on various evidence based approaches to support clients struggling with loss, change, worry and anxiety. I work with you to find out what approach best suits your needs and, if appropriate, your goals. I have certified training in online support, if that approach suits you best.
01572 491312 View 01572 491312
Photo of Hayley Allen, Counsellor, MBACP
Hayley Allen
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX2
Hi, I specialise in working with bereavement, particularly in cases of complex grief and traumatic loss, as well as infertility and baby loss.
As an Integrative Therapist, I have the opportunity to truly appreciate and respect you as a unique person. By integrating all aspects of your being - your physical, emotional, mental, behavioural, and spiritual self, I ensure my approach addresses each aspect specifically for you, fostering a feeling of completeness.
Hi, I specialise in working with bereavement, particularly in cases of complex grief and traumatic loss, as well as infertility and baby loss.
As an Integrative Therapist, I have the opportunity to truly appreciate and respect you as a unique person. By integrating all aspects of your being - your physical, emotional, mental, behavioural, and spiritual self, I ensure my approach addresses each aspect specifically for you, fostering a feeling of completeness.
01392 321928 View 01392 321928
Photo of Jane Meares, Counsellor, MBACP
Jane Meares
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX1
I support adults affected by low self esteem, anxiety, depression, or grief, often those who have experienced the death of a loved one, a major life transition or trauma, or childhood sexual abuse.
Do you put on a brave face but feel different on the inside? Perhaps empty and numb, or overwhelmed by emotions? Do you wake up with a sense of dread? I know how tough life can be at times and how lonely it feels when no one seems to understand. If you’re wondering when you’ll feel happy or hopeful again, or you’re worrying about the future and fearing the worst, or maybe you’re struggling with a big change and a sense of who you are; I’d like to help. Being able to talk freely to someone, without fear of judgement or shame, can be a huge relief. Feeling seen and truly heard, and accepted for who you are can be liberating.
I support adults affected by low self esteem, anxiety, depression, or grief, often those who have experienced the death of a loved one, a major life transition or trauma, or childhood sexual abuse.
Do you put on a brave face but feel different on the inside? Perhaps empty and numb, or overwhelmed by emotions? Do you wake up with a sense of dread? I know how tough life can be at times and how lonely it feels when no one seems to understand. If you’re wondering when you’ll feel happy or hopeful again, or you’re worrying about the future and fearing the worst, or maybe you’re struggling with a big change and a sense of who you are; I’d like to help. Being able to talk freely to someone, without fear of judgement or shame, can be a huge relief. Feeling seen and truly heard, and accepted for who you are can be liberating.
01392 321316 View 01392 321316
Photo of Natasha Rae-Dean, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Natasha Rae-Dean
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Over many years I have developed a particular specialist interest in working with bereavement, trauma and loss.
Humanistic counselling is a warm, client-focused approach to therapy that puts you at the centre of the process. It’s built on the belief that everyone has the capacity for personal growth and self-discovery when given the right support. I offer a safe space to explore your goals and will empower and support you to achieve them.
Over many years I have developed a particular specialist interest in working with bereavement, trauma and loss.
Humanistic counselling is a warm, client-focused approach to therapy that puts you at the centre of the process. It’s built on the belief that everyone has the capacity for personal growth and self-discovery when given the right support. I offer a safe space to explore your goals and will empower and support you to achieve them.
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Photo of Katherine dayman, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Katherine dayman
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Exeter EX1
I am a down to earth, straight talking counsellor and supervisor, with many years experience working with bereavement, loss and trauma.
I am an integrative counsellor and supervisor, which means I use a range of theories and approaches which are tailored to you dependent on what your concerns are and the way in which you work most effectively, whether this be through talking or more creative interventions. I can also offer practical strategies to relieve anxiety and stress where required.
I am a down to earth, straight talking counsellor and supervisor, with many years experience working with bereavement, loss and trauma.
I am an integrative counsellor and supervisor, which means I use a range of theories and approaches which are tailored to you dependent on what your concerns are and the way in which you work most effectively, whether this be through talking or more creative interventions. I can also offer practical strategies to relieve anxiety and stress where required.
01392 321846 View 01392 321846
Photo of Debbie Lavinchi - Two's-Talking Counselling & Supervision Service, Counsellor, MBACP
I can help you with stress, anxiety/depression, anger, bereavement, relationships, abuse and couple's therapy.
Looking at this page highlights your life is not where you thought you would be. You are in pain and you want to reduce the conflict within. I will give you the time and the space to talk. I will listen to you & together we will find a way that's better than what you have right now. Life is about feeling happy & secure. You deserve to be who you want to be.
I can help you with stress, anxiety/depression, anger, bereavement, relationships, abuse and couple's therapy.
Looking at this page highlights your life is not where you thought you would be. You are in pain and you want to reduce the conflict within. I will give you the time and the space to talk. I will listen to you & together we will find a way that's better than what you have right now. Life is about feeling happy & secure. You deserve to be who you want to be.
01392 690620 View 01392 690620
Photo of Charlotte Feeny, Counsellor, MBACP
Charlotte Feeny
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX1
We can all feel overwhelmed at times: it might be the breakdown of a relationship, loss of a friendship, daily struggles or those horrible feelings of anxiety that just won’t go away.
My focus is listening to you and helping you make sense of what’s going on. We all tell ourselves stories about who we are and our lives: my role is to reflect on what you are saying you believe and challenge thoughts that might not be helpful. I work with couples, families & individuals, offering brief solution-focussed counselling or longer-term therapy.
We can all feel overwhelmed at times: it might be the breakdown of a relationship, loss of a friendship, daily struggles or those horrible feelings of anxiety that just won’t go away.
My focus is listening to you and helping you make sense of what’s going on. We all tell ourselves stories about who we are and our lives: my role is to reflect on what you are saying you believe and challenge thoughts that might not be helpful. I work with couples, families & individuals, offering brief solution-focussed counselling or longer-term therapy.
07480 783785 View 07480 783785
Photo of Toni Wickens - Talk With TJ, Counsellor, MBACP
Talk With TJ
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX2
I can help with - depression, low mood, anxiety, loss and much more.
Ever considered having a biker as your counsellor? My aim is to recreate the supportive environment one would get around a campfire with the added calmness of a cruise in the countryside. Lets take a journey together. I am down to earth and human. Sometimes throttle therapy doesn't work and we need a little extra support.  I offer Online and Walk and Talk Sessions on the outskirts of Exeter. Where you have the opportunity to express and explore your emotions in the Scenic and calming surroundings of nature. Please note the Fee for Walk and Talk is set at £50 per session.
I can help with - depression, low mood, anxiety, loss and much more.
Ever considered having a biker as your counsellor? My aim is to recreate the supportive environment one would get around a campfire with the added calmness of a cruise in the countryside. Lets take a journey together. I am down to earth and human. Sometimes throttle therapy doesn't work and we need a little extra support.  I offer Online and Walk and Talk Sessions on the outskirts of Exeter. Where you have the opportunity to express and explore your emotions in the Scenic and calming surroundings of nature. Please note the Fee for Walk and Talk is set at £50 per session.
01392 321974 View 01392 321974
Photo of Lizette Baker, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Lizette Baker
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
I believe we all have the strength to face adversity, but during times of grief, trauma, or major life changes, we don’t have to do it alone.
I am an Integrative Counsellor which means I use several modalities adding flexibility and creativity into the sessions. I specialise in Bereavement, Grief and Loss, as well as Relationship Issues, Trauma, ADHD related concerns, and Adult Replacement Child Syndrome. I work at your pace to find a rhythm that best supports exploration and understanding.
I believe we all have the strength to face adversity, but during times of grief, trauma, or major life changes, we don’t have to do it alone.
I am an Integrative Counsellor which means I use several modalities adding flexibility and creativity into the sessions. I specialise in Bereavement, Grief and Loss, as well as Relationship Issues, Trauma, ADHD related concerns, and Adult Replacement Child Syndrome. I work at your pace to find a rhythm that best supports exploration and understanding.
01392 321543 View 01392 321543
Photo of Tonia Aitken, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Tonia Aitken
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Exeter EX1
Though I work with people who have experienced a broad range of emotional and psychological difficulties and trauma, I have particular interest in working with bereavement and loss (including the loss of a loved one to suicide); women’s issues; couples work and relationship problems of all kinds (including domestic abuse).
Hello, I’m Tonia, a relational psychotherapist trained in Transactional Analysis(TA). The decision to go to therapy is never an easy one. Approaching someone you don’t know to share intimate details about painful subjects can feel daunting. However, please be reassured, I am an experienced, warm, and empathic practitioner who is open minded and non-judgmental. I offer a safe and totally confidential space for us to work closely together to help you understand yourself and your relationships better, and to explore what may be going on behind the difficult emotions, thoughts and behaviours troubling you.
Though I work with people who have experienced a broad range of emotional and psychological difficulties and trauma, I have particular interest in working with bereavement and loss (including the loss of a loved one to suicide); women’s issues; couples work and relationship problems of all kinds (including domestic abuse).
Hello, I’m Tonia, a relational psychotherapist trained in Transactional Analysis(TA). The decision to go to therapy is never an easy one. Approaching someone you don’t know to share intimate details about painful subjects can feel daunting. However, please be reassured, I am an experienced, warm, and empathic practitioner who is open minded and non-judgmental. I offer a safe and totally confidential space for us to work closely together to help you understand yourself and your relationships better, and to explore what may be going on behind the difficult emotions, thoughts and behaviours troubling you.
01392 537182 View 01392 537182
Photo of Tim Williamson, Counsellor, MBACP
Tim Williamson
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX1
I work primarily with adults experiencing anxiety, depression and bereavement (I have particular experience in bereavement by suicide).
It was Mr Miyagi in the movie “The Karate Kid” who said, “You know, but you do not understand.” We are often aware of the feelings and thoughts we are having, the behaviours they are causing and the distress that can generate. We can even know the traumas that have happened that we can attribute them to. But we can’t understand or articulate them enough to change them and heal. Perhaps this is the way you feel? Maybe you have been struggling with anxiety, depression or both for some time and everyday life is more challenging than you want it to be? Maybe you’ve experienced a traumatic event that you can’t seem to get over?
I work primarily with adults experiencing anxiety, depression and bereavement (I have particular experience in bereavement by suicide).
It was Mr Miyagi in the movie “The Karate Kid” who said, “You know, but you do not understand.” We are often aware of the feelings and thoughts we are having, the behaviours they are causing and the distress that can generate. We can even know the traumas that have happened that we can attribute them to. But we can’t understand or articulate them enough to change them and heal. Perhaps this is the way you feel? Maybe you have been struggling with anxiety, depression or both for some time and everyday life is more challenging than you want it to be? Maybe you’ve experienced a traumatic event that you can’t seem to get over?
07480 488746 View 07480 488746
Photo of Rob Upton, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Rob Upton
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Exeter EX4
I have a lot of experience supporting bereaved clients or those dealing with loss of any description.
Feeling that anxious pit in your stomach every night, or just have no motivation? If the thought of tomorrow fills you with dread, therapy can help ease your mind, manage stress, and bring peace back into your life. Are you constantly worst-case scenario thinking, with even small decisions or situations spiralling into overwhelming "what if" thoughts? Do you have physical symptoms of anxiety or depression, such as racing heart, tight chest, trouble sleeping, and fatigue, often without an obvious cause? Counselling isn’t just me listening to your problems. Together we will find practical solutions to make you feel better.
I have a lot of experience supporting bereaved clients or those dealing with loss of any description.
Feeling that anxious pit in your stomach every night, or just have no motivation? If the thought of tomorrow fills you with dread, therapy can help ease your mind, manage stress, and bring peace back into your life. Are you constantly worst-case scenario thinking, with even small decisions or situations spiralling into overwhelming "what if" thoughts? Do you have physical symptoms of anxiety or depression, such as racing heart, tight chest, trouble sleeping, and fatigue, often without an obvious cause? Counselling isn’t just me listening to your problems. Together we will find practical solutions to make you feel better.
01252 964442 View 01252 964442
Photo of Darren Neal, Counsellor, MBACP
Darren Neal
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
I have a extensive experience working with trauma(PTSD&CPTSD), bereavement, anxiety (fear), abuse, mental health issues, depression as well as general feelings of hopelessness and sadness and I will offer my experience and knowledge to help empower you to experience yourself, understand yourself and feel more confidant and emotionally connected.
Through my personal experiences, as well as professional, I am capable of exploring complex and emotionally troubling issues stemming from traumas such as grief, abuse, loneliness and disconnection, relationships, anxiety, depression and issues around being able to express anger. I have previously worked for the NHS in mental health services for 14 years.
I have a extensive experience working with trauma(PTSD&CPTSD), bereavement, anxiety (fear), abuse, mental health issues, depression as well as general feelings of hopelessness and sadness and I will offer my experience and knowledge to help empower you to experience yourself, understand yourself and feel more confidant and emotionally connected.
Through my personal experiences, as well as professional, I am capable of exploring complex and emotionally troubling issues stemming from traumas such as grief, abuse, loneliness and disconnection, relationships, anxiety, depression and issues around being able to express anger. I have previously worked for the NHS in mental health services for 14 years.
020 3917 4037 View 020 3917 4037
Photo of Kerry Hatton - New Lanes Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
New Lanes Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I have over 8 years experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence.
My name is Kerry, I am a BACP registered Person Centred Counsellor and am committed to the BACP ethical framework. My approach is pluralistic in order to respect the individual needs of my clients and to achieve their desired outcomes. I maintain continued personal development and supervision to ensure safe practice for both myself and clients.
I have over 8 years experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence.
My name is Kerry, I am a BACP registered Person Centred Counsellor and am committed to the BACP ethical framework. My approach is pluralistic in order to respect the individual needs of my clients and to achieve their desired outcomes. I maintain continued personal development and supervision to ensure safe practice for both myself and clients.
01747 441379 View 01747 441379
Photo of Lynda Almond, Counsellor, BACP
Lynda Almond
Counsellor, BACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am experienced in working with domestic abuse, bereavement, trauma, long term chronic health conditions, neurodiversity, gender and sexual issues, and sexual dysfunction, including compulsive sexual behaviours (sex/porn addiction)
Hello and welcome, I am qualified counsellor/psychotherapist and registered member of the BACP as well as being an Accredited Member of the NCS. I am also a hypnotherapist, life coach and offer meditation and mindfulness as a part of my work. I am currently undertaking a MSc in Contemporary Psychosexual Therapy and work with clients with sexual dysfunction and issues. Currently I offer these sessions at a reduced rate whilst I am completing my MSc. In addition I am undertaking a CPCAB approved Level 5 in Sex Addiction or complusive sexual behaviours, focusing on sex, porn and love addition.
I am experienced in working with domestic abuse, bereavement, trauma, long term chronic health conditions, neurodiversity, gender and sexual issues, and sexual dysfunction, including compulsive sexual behaviours (sex/porn addiction)
Hello and welcome, I am qualified counsellor/psychotherapist and registered member of the BACP as well as being an Accredited Member of the NCS. I am also a hypnotherapist, life coach and offer meditation and mindfulness as a part of my work. I am currently undertaking a MSc in Contemporary Psychosexual Therapy and work with clients with sexual dysfunction and issues. Currently I offer these sessions at a reduced rate whilst I am completing my MSc. In addition I am undertaking a CPCAB approved Level 5 in Sex Addiction or complusive sexual behaviours, focusing on sex, porn and love addition.
01572 494658 View 01572 494658
Photo of Madelaine Freedman, Counsellor
Madelaine Freedman
Counsellor
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Some may be struggling with anxiety, depression, bereavement, self-esteem, and relationships (family, co-workers, peers, partners, spouses).
I provide face-to-face, walk and talk (depending on location) and online sessions. I offer a compassionate and warm space where you can share without fear of judgement. Maybe you've gotten to a point in your life where what worked for you before is no longer working. Or maybe you can no longer sense or intuit what works. Therapy can be a valuable starting point, offering a chance to revisit and untangle the complicated aspects of your life that you may have tried to suppress. ​It's a safe space to reconnect with yourself.
Some may be struggling with anxiety, depression, bereavement, self-esteem, and relationships (family, co-workers, peers, partners, spouses).
I provide face-to-face, walk and talk (depending on location) and online sessions. I offer a compassionate and warm space where you can share without fear of judgement. Maybe you've gotten to a point in your life where what worked for you before is no longer working. Or maybe you can no longer sense or intuit what works. Therapy can be a valuable starting point, offering a chance to revisit and untangle the complicated aspects of your life that you may have tried to suppress. ​It's a safe space to reconnect with yourself.
01884 211202 View 01884 211202
Photo of Beverley Beckett Pncps (Acc.) Specialist Tailored Counselling, Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Beverley Beckett Pncps (Acc.) Specialist Tailored Counselling
Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
I regularly work across a number of different areas and can support you if you are struggling with: addiction, trauma, abuse, bereavement, neurodiversity, bullying and relationship issues, gender conflict, self-harm, depression, anxiety or suicide.
Person-centred counselling puts you at the centre of our sessions, while I guide our discussions and support you by introducing psychotherapy tools to provide structure to your thinking. The guiding purpose is to allow you to discover the best way forward for you as an individual - we are all unique. There are a number of reasons why you might want to engage in therapy and often our conversations can cover unexpected topics. I am a fully qualified counsellor and psychotherapist, with professional accreditation from the NCPS and I am registered with the BACP.
I regularly work across a number of different areas and can support you if you are struggling with: addiction, trauma, abuse, bereavement, neurodiversity, bullying and relationship issues, gender conflict, self-harm, depression, anxiety or suicide.
Person-centred counselling puts you at the centre of our sessions, while I guide our discussions and support you by introducing psychotherapy tools to provide structure to your thinking. The guiding purpose is to allow you to discover the best way forward for you as an individual - we are all unique. There are a number of reasons why you might want to engage in therapy and often our conversations can cover unexpected topics. I am a fully qualified counsellor and psychotherapist, with professional accreditation from the NCPS and I am registered with the BACP.
07401 263192 View 07401 263192

See more therapy options for Exeter

Bereavement 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.