Bereavement Counselling in Exeter

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 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 Liz Spencer, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Liz Spencer
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
Feeling anxious or overwhelmed? Maybe you're struggling with your relationship, self-doubt, emotional burnout, or old patterns that keep showing up. I get it. Therapy with me isn't about quick fixes or endless pep talks. It's about real conversations, finding clarity and helping you step into a life that feels true to you. Together, we'll dig into the stuff that matters, at your pace, without judgement so you can understand yourself and make choices that align with who you truly are. If you're ready to feel seen and start making shifts, I'm here for that journey. Let's do the work that's right for you. Message me to book a session.
Feeling anxious or overwhelmed? Maybe you're struggling with your relationship, self-doubt, emotional burnout, or old patterns that keep showing up. I get it. Therapy with me isn't about quick fixes or endless pep talks. It's about real conversations, finding clarity and helping you step into a life that feels true to you. Together, we'll dig into the stuff that matters, at your pace, without judgement so you can understand yourself and make choices that align with who you truly are. If you're ready to feel seen and start making shifts, I'm here for that journey. Let's do the work that's right for you. Message me to book a session.
01392 321474 View 01392 321474
Photo of Karen Hedges, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Karen Hedges
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX2
Hello, I'm Karen. If you are looking for ways to make positive changes and move forward with your life, I can help you. I'm experienced in working alongside a range of people, and have a particular interest in helping people who may have ADHD (attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder) or be on the autistic spectrum. If you feel that your emotions, thoughts and behaviours are not serving you well, then I will help you to understand them so that you can identify what needs to change. Using approaches to suit you, I'll support you to overcome your difficulties.
Hello, I'm Karen. If you are looking for ways to make positive changes and move forward with your life, I can help you. I'm experienced in working alongside a range of people, and have a particular interest in helping people who may have ADHD (attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder) or be on the autistic spectrum. If you feel that your emotions, thoughts and behaviours are not serving you well, then I will help you to understand them so that you can identify what needs to change. Using approaches to suit you, I'll support you to overcome your difficulties.
01392 690594 View 01392 690594
Photo of Pauline Earle - Between You and Me Integrative Therapy, Psychotherapist, MBACP Snr. Accred
Between You and Me Integrative Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP Snr. Accred
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX5
Waitlist for new clients
Reaching out can be hard. Are you feeling overwhelmed? struggling to cope with your situation? your emotions? your experiences? If your trust has been damaged, talking to someone who will take time to understand you can be a huge relief. Perhaps you need support through a crisis or you are at the end of your tether with multiple stresses. Even if you have longterm issues that seem stuck, talking to someone can make a difference. You may gain insight into the roots of your difficulties and find qualities in yourself that have never had a chance to develop. The aim is to help you live a more rewarding life.
Reaching out can be hard. Are you feeling overwhelmed? struggling to cope with your situation? your emotions? your experiences? If your trust has been damaged, talking to someone who will take time to understand you can be a huge relief. Perhaps you need support through a crisis or you are at the end of your tether with multiple stresses. Even if you have longterm issues that seem stuck, talking to someone can make a difference. You may gain insight into the roots of your difficulties and find qualities in yourself that have never had a chance to develop. The aim is to help you live a more rewarding life.
01392 549093 View 01392 549093
Photo of Lynne Barker, Counsellor, MBACP
Lynne Barker
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
Your life. Your time. You. Time to sort things out, explore, grow and CHANGE. Time to stop being pulled in all directions; too caught up on the treadmill of your own thoughts to find an alternative way of tackling a problem. My sessions offer you a circuit breaker; a chance to slow down, unravel your thoughts...and breathe! Stepping back and viewing your life from a more profound and reasoned angle, you will have the opportunity to share your thoughts and questions, in a secure and non-judgemental setting. It will be time well spent in order for your future life to be spent well.
Your life. Your time. You. Time to sort things out, explore, grow and CHANGE. Time to stop being pulled in all directions; too caught up on the treadmill of your own thoughts to find an alternative way of tackling a problem. My sessions offer you a circuit breaker; a chance to slow down, unravel your thoughts...and breathe! Stepping back and viewing your life from a more profound and reasoned angle, you will have the opportunity to share your thoughts and questions, in a secure and non-judgemental setting. It will be time well spent in order for your future life to be spent well.
01392 549745 View 01392 549745
Photo of Hayley Allen, Counsellor, MBACP
Hayley Allen
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX2
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from yourself, struggling with food, emotions, grief, or the impact of past experiences.
I am a trauma-informed, integrative counsellor specialising in eating disorders. I offer compassionate therapy using talking therapy alongside play and creative approaches, where helpful. I also support anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, OCD, and relationship difficulties, adapting sessions to your individual needs.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from yourself, struggling with food, emotions, grief, or the impact of past experiences.
I am a trauma-informed, integrative counsellor specialising in eating disorders. I offer compassionate therapy using talking therapy alongside play and creative approaches, where helpful. I also support anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, OCD, and relationship difficulties, adapting sessions to your individual needs.
01392 321928 View 01392 321928
Photo of Catherine Roguski, Counsellor, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Catherine Roguski
Counsellor, MA, MNCPS Acc.
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 Toni Wickens - Talk With TJ Counselling Service, Counsellor, MBACP
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 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 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 Rob Upton, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Rob Upton
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Exeter EX4
Many people I work with describe a feeling of living behind a mask, smiling, coping, keeping up appearances, while privately battling anxiety, low mood, grief, or a sense of disconnection.
Counselling can be a game-changer. Here’s how it helps: Breaks the worry loop - I can help you spot unhelpful thought patterns and learn how to reframe them. Builds coping tools - learn techniques that give you more control when anxiety hits. Boosts confidence - As you build skills and gain insight, you feel more equipped to face challenges.
Many people I work with describe a feeling of living behind a mask, smiling, coping, keeping up appearances, while privately battling anxiety, low mood, grief, or a sense of disconnection.
Counselling can be a game-changer. Here’s how it helps: Breaks the worry loop - I can help you spot unhelpful thought patterns and learn how to reframe them. Builds coping tools - learn techniques that give you more control when anxiety hits. Boosts confidence - As you build skills and gain insight, you feel more equipped to face challenges.
01252 964442 View 01252 964442
Photo of Jane Meares, Counsellor, MBACP
Jane Meares
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX1
I support adults affected by overthinking, low self esteem, anxiety, depression, or grief, often those who have experienced a traumatic loss, a difficult childhood, 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 find it hard to cope day to day? 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 overthinking, low self esteem, anxiety, depression, or grief, often those who have experienced a traumatic loss, a difficult childhood, 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 find it hard to cope day to day? 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 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 Alex Nigel Moseley - Alex Moseley Counselling and Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
However, 'healing' might not involve a cure, but rather a coming to terms with our lives, which may be painful; a grieving, and an imaginative approach to what the symptoms of our distress might be pointing to
I have a particular interest and experience in supporting people as they face life 'transitions' such as long-term illness; bereavement; losing your sense of personal or professional direction; coming to terms with an LGBTQ+ identity; or a quarter- or mid-life 'crisis'. I have offered therapy both privately and for patients at cancer and hospice charities.
However, 'healing' might not involve a cure, but rather a coming to terms with our lives, which may be painful; a grieving, and an imaginative approach to what the symptoms of our distress might be pointing to
I have a particular interest and experience in supporting people as they face life 'transitions' such as long-term illness; bereavement; losing your sense of personal or professional direction; coming to terms with an LGBTQ+ identity; or a quarter- or mid-life 'crisis'. I have offered therapy both privately and for patients at cancer and hospice charities.
01392 542187 View 01392 542187
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 Heather Rees - Heather Rees Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Heather Rees Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialise in: working with adult survivors of childhood abuse; domestic abuse and sexual violence; self-harm; suicide ideation; bereavement and loss.
You might be feeling a little lost, or noticing that life feels heavier than it once did. Anxiety, low mood, or past experiences may still linger — or there may simply be a sense that something isn’t quite right. However it shows up for you, you don’t have to face it alone. When confidence feels fragile, reaching out can be hard. Finding the words isn’t always easy. Therapy can offer a calm, gentle space to pause — where there’s no pressure to explain or have anything figured out. If you’re unsure about therapy or taking a first step, that’s okay. When you’re ready, you’ll be met with warmth, care, and understanding.
I specialise in: working with adult survivors of childhood abuse; domestic abuse and sexual violence; self-harm; suicide ideation; bereavement and loss.
You might be feeling a little lost, or noticing that life feels heavier than it once did. Anxiety, low mood, or past experiences may still linger — or there may simply be a sense that something isn’t quite right. However it shows up for you, you don’t have to face it alone. When confidence feels fragile, reaching out can be hard. Finding the words isn’t always easy. Therapy can offer a calm, gentle space to pause — where there’s no pressure to explain or have anything figured out. If you’re unsure about therapy or taking a first step, that’s okay. When you’re ready, you’ll be met with warmth, care, and understanding.
01872 304612 View 01872 304612
Photo of Beverley Beckett, Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Beverley Beckett
Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
Specialties Abuse, ADD / ADHD, Addictions, AIDS/HIV, Anger management, Anxiety, Autism spectrum, Bereavement, Cancer, Child related issues, Chronic fatigue syndrome / ME, Cultural issues, Depression, Disability, Eating disorders, Health related issues, Identity issues, Infertility, LGBTQ+ counselling, Life coaching, Loss, Menopause, Neurodiversity and more..
Rise Again Psychotherapy And Me Centred around you, person-centred counselling emphasizes your role in our sessions. While I lead our discussions, I support you by introducing psychotherapy tools to help structure your thoughts. The primary aim is to empower you to determine the best path for your individual journey since we are all unique. There are numerous reasons why you might seek therapy, and our conversations often touch on unexpected topics. As a fully qualified counsellor and psychotherapist, I am accredited by the NCPS and registered with the BACP.
Specialties Abuse, ADD / ADHD, Addictions, AIDS/HIV, Anger management, Anxiety, Autism spectrum, Bereavement, Cancer, Child related issues, Chronic fatigue syndrome / ME, Cultural issues, Depression, Disability, Eating disorders, Health related issues, Identity issues, Infertility, LGBTQ+ counselling, Life coaching, Loss, Menopause, Neurodiversity and more..
Rise Again Psychotherapy And Me Centred around you, person-centred counselling emphasizes your role in our sessions. While I lead our discussions, I support you by introducing psychotherapy tools to help structure your thoughts. The primary aim is to empower you to determine the best path for your individual journey since we are all unique. There are numerous reasons why you might seek therapy, and our conversations often touch on unexpected topics. As a fully qualified counsellor and psychotherapist, I am accredited by the NCPS and registered with the BACP.
07401 263192 View 07401 263192
Photo of Sarah Churchill, Counsellor, MBACP
Sarah Churchill
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with clients navigating anxiety, trauma, loss, or life transitions.
I'm an integrative counsellor offering therapy indoors, online, and outdoors in nature. I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches to help you make sense of your experiences, connect with your inner resources, and find a way forward that feels authentic and meaningful. At the heart of my work is the therapeutic relationship — a safe space where you can feel seen, supported, and free to explore whatever is arising for you. I have a particular interest in the body-mind connection, bringing a holistic approach to everything we explore together. I offer a warm, collaborative presence, meeting you with openness, curiosity, and respect.
I work with clients navigating anxiety, trauma, loss, or life transitions.
I'm an integrative counsellor offering therapy indoors, online, and outdoors in nature. I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches to help you make sense of your experiences, connect with your inner resources, and find a way forward that feels authentic and meaningful. At the heart of my work is the therapeutic relationship — a safe space where you can feel seen, supported, and free to explore whatever is arising for you. I have a particular interest in the body-mind connection, bringing a holistic approach to everything we explore together. I offer a warm, collaborative presence, meeting you with openness, curiosity, and respect.
01297 300962 View 01297 300962

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.