Bereavement Counselling in Fordingbridge

Photo of Charlotte Sturmey - Headway Therapy, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Headway Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Fordingbridge SP6
Hi, I'm Charlotte an experienced, qualified counsellor and psychotherapist. I'm ok... I'm fine ...sound familiar when you're feeling far from ok? I believe that talking therapies can help when life is hard and you're experiencing a difficult time. Maybe you're feeling down anxious or going through a life transition such as a break up or bereavement. We can work together to focus on what's important to you, helping to improve your wellbeing, achieve your goals, gain a more balanced outlook and rewarding life.
Hi, I'm Charlotte an experienced, qualified counsellor and psychotherapist. I'm ok... I'm fine ...sound familiar when you're feeling far from ok? I believe that talking therapies can help when life is hard and you're experiencing a difficult time. Maybe you're feeling down anxious or going through a life transition such as a break up or bereavement. We can work together to focus on what's important to you, helping to improve your wellbeing, achieve your goals, gain a more balanced outlook and rewarding life.
01209 707189 View 01209 707189
Photo of Rachel Tyler, MBACP, Counsellor
Rachel Tyler
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Fordingbridge SP6
My specialisms are in working with Counsellors & Trainee Counsellors, Young Adults, Bereavement, Palliative Care, Trauma & Dissociative Identity Disorder.
Time2B was established to provide counselling for Adults, Teenagers and children. facing a wide range of issues. I pride myself on taking a unique approach to counselling. Working in a client focused way, enables you to explore the issues you are facing at your pace. This means that, as everyone who comes to see me is unique, the approach is tailored to your unique needs. Clinical Supervision and counselling is provided to both trainee and qualified professionals working within Counselling, Therapy, Mental Health, Teaching and Social Work.
My specialisms are in working with Counsellors & Trainee Counsellors, Young Adults, Bereavement, Palliative Care, Trauma & Dissociative Identity Disorder.
Time2B was established to provide counselling for Adults, Teenagers and children. facing a wide range of issues. I pride myself on taking a unique approach to counselling. Working in a client focused way, enables you to explore the issues you are facing at your pace. This means that, as everyone who comes to see me is unique, the approach is tailored to your unique needs. Clinical Supervision and counselling is provided to both trainee and qualified professionals working within Counselling, Therapy, Mental Health, Teaching and Social Work.
07380 336428 View 07380 336428
Photo of Louisa Cowan, UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist
Louisa Cowan
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
Fordingbridge SP6
During this time I saw a wide range of adult clients and gained experience in working with depression, grief, anxiety, trauma, identity and low self-esteem.
I am a psychotherapist in training working towards an MA in Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapy. I offer a compassionate and confidential space where you are free to bring yourself fully to be listened to empathetically and deeply so that we can work towards the easing of overwhelming emotions and make way for new perspectives. Through our therapeutic relationship I can support you in exploring your thoughts, feelings and experiences and I will sit alongside you as you reach a deeper understanding of self.
During this time I saw a wide range of adult clients and gained experience in working with depression, grief, anxiety, trauma, identity and low self-esteem.
I am a psychotherapist in training working towards an MA in Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapy. I offer a compassionate and confidential space where you are free to bring yourself fully to be listened to empathetically and deeply so that we can work towards the easing of overwhelming emotions and make way for new perspectives. Through our therapeutic relationship I can support you in exploring your thoughts, feelings and experiences and I will sit alongside you as you reach a deeper understanding of self.
07562 991892 View 07562 991892
Photo of Dr Heidi Hand, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Heidi Hand
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Fordingbridge SP6  (Online Only)
Hi….I am Heidi. I have over 15 years experience providing direct therapy for many different concerns including anxiety/panic, depression, loss, stress, low self esteem, self harm, trauma, eating disorders and more. I also have additional training in neuropsychology and work with individuals with neurological conditions and FND. I can help you build a life that is meaningful and fulfilling despite all the challenges and stresses that life can bring. Together we can work towards your own personal goals … for therapy and beyond!
Hi….I am Heidi. I have over 15 years experience providing direct therapy for many different concerns including anxiety/panic, depression, loss, stress, low self esteem, self harm, trauma, eating disorders and more. I also have additional training in neuropsychology and work with individuals with neurological conditions and FND. I can help you build a life that is meaningful and fulfilling despite all the challenges and stresses that life can bring. Together we can work towards your own personal goals … for therapy and beyond!
01722 444173 View 01722 444173
Photo of Kathryn Gaussen, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Kathryn Gaussen
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Fordingbridge SP6
I’m an experienced Consultant Clinical Psychologist, working both in the NHS and independent sector. I work with adults and older adolescents (16years +) to help them manage a wide range of mental health difficulties in order for people to live a meaningful and fulfilling life. I can provide therapy for those for whom it is their first experience of looking for therapy as well for those who have maybe tried various other therapies/avenues previously. l also adapt therapy to meet people needs, including for people who are neurodivergent. My areas of special interest include Complex Trauma and Borderline Personality Disorder.
I’m an experienced Consultant Clinical Psychologist, working both in the NHS and independent sector. I work with adults and older adolescents (16years +) to help them manage a wide range of mental health difficulties in order for people to live a meaningful and fulfilling life. I can provide therapy for those for whom it is their first experience of looking for therapy as well for those who have maybe tried various other therapies/avenues previously. l also adapt therapy to meet people needs, including for people who are neurodivergent. My areas of special interest include Complex Trauma and Borderline Personality Disorder.
01425 209309 View 01425 209309
Photo of Dr Liane Hubbins - Avon Valley Psychology. Dr Liane Hubbins, CPsychol, Psychologist
Avon Valley Psychology. Dr Liane Hubbins
Psychologist, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Fordingbridge SP6
I am a Clinical psychologist and a Cognitive Analytic Therapist experienced in offering therapy to adults feeling troubled by emotional or mental health difficulties and challenging life circumstances. I have experience working within the NHS and in private practice and am trained in a range of psychological therapies.
I am a Clinical psychologist and a Cognitive Analytic Therapist experienced in offering therapy to adults feeling troubled by emotional or mental health difficulties and challenging life circumstances. I have experience working within the NHS and in private practice and am trained in a range of psychological therapies.
01425 209246 View 01425 209246

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kenrick James Deen, PhD, MBACP, Counsellor
Kenrick James Deen
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ringwood BH24
I work with anxiety, depression, isolation, grief, trauma and cancer and relationship issues.
Welcome! How can I help you? That’s the main thing. Even if you don’t know the answer reaching out is important. This is the first step, but I appreciate its not always easy. I am here for you and will work with you to get you to a better place. You only need to bring yourself and want to change. I'll be there with you. Nothing is too big or small, complex or simple. You don't need to do this alone, we can do this together! Currently I offer face to face and on-line therapy.
I work with anxiety, depression, isolation, grief, trauma and cancer and relationship issues.
Welcome! How can I help you? That’s the main thing. Even if you don’t know the answer reaching out is important. This is the first step, but I appreciate its not always easy. I am here for you and will work with you to get you to a better place. You only need to bring yourself and want to change. I'll be there with you. Nothing is too big or small, complex or simple. You don't need to do this alone, we can do this together! Currently I offer face to face and on-line therapy.
01736 804519 View 01736 804519
Photo of Tracey Holden - Tracey Holden Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Tracey Holden Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ringwood BH24
I can also help you explore loss associated with other big changes such as parenthood, separation or divorce and career changes or other difficult issues such as anxiety, stress or depression brought on by relationship problems or work.
When someone you love dies, the grief can be overwhelming. It can affect us emotionally andEvery day can suddenly feel like a struggle. Life can feel pointless and overwhelming. Friends and family want to help but they are often struggling with their own grief or do not know what to say or do for the best. I can provide a safe, confidential space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and memories around your loved one so that you can come to terms with your bereavement whilst also gaining a better understanding of yourself, your emotions and patterns of behaviour, allowing you to make better choices and decisions going forward.
I can also help you explore loss associated with other big changes such as parenthood, separation or divorce and career changes or other difficult issues such as anxiety, stress or depression brought on by relationship problems or work.
When someone you love dies, the grief can be overwhelming. It can affect us emotionally andEvery day can suddenly feel like a struggle. Life can feel pointless and overwhelming. Friends and family want to help but they are often struggling with their own grief or do not know what to say or do for the best. I can provide a safe, confidential space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and memories around your loved one so that you can come to terms with your bereavement whilst also gaining a better understanding of yourself, your emotions and patterns of behaviour, allowing you to make better choices and decisions going forward.
01258 442267 View 01258 442267
Photo of Phoebe Clausen-Sternwald, MBACP, Counsellor
Phoebe Clausen-Sternwald
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ringwood BH24
I also specialise in Anxiety, Developmental trauma, OCD, Grief, Child loss, Cancer and Dementia.
I am a Counsellor and a Grief Educator with a background in Nursing. I provide short-term and long-term (open-ended) counselling to adults, age over 18. In-person counselling is conducted in Burley, New Forest and in Rownhams, Southampton. Remote counselling sessions can take place via Zoom WhatsApp, Team and phone call. You may feel apprehensive about choosing the right counsellor for the issues you wish to process. I offer a free 20 minute session to chat with me via WhatsApp or Zoom. This is an opportunity for you to find out if I would be a good fit for you. Please feel free to contact me for a no-obligation initial chat.
I also specialise in Anxiety, Developmental trauma, OCD, Grief, Child loss, Cancer and Dementia.
I am a Counsellor and a Grief Educator with a background in Nursing. I provide short-term and long-term (open-ended) counselling to adults, age over 18. In-person counselling is conducted in Burley, New Forest and in Rownhams, Southampton. Remote counselling sessions can take place via Zoom WhatsApp, Team and phone call. You may feel apprehensive about choosing the right counsellor for the issues you wish to process. I offer a free 20 minute session to chat with me via WhatsApp or Zoom. This is an opportunity for you to find out if I would be a good fit for you. Please feel free to contact me for a no-obligation initial chat.
01480 277359 View 01480 277359
Photo of Jackie Boekman, MBACP, Counsellor
Jackie Boekman
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salisbury SP1
My main speciality is bereavement and loss.
Hello. Well done for wanting to seek out counselling and psychotherapy to help you explore what is holding you back from living a fulfilled life. It takes great courage and self awareness to take this first step. I offer you a safe, confidential place for you talk to someone who is trained to listen attentively to your problems. Allowing patience, self-belief, and compassion to be by your side, therapy can give you the opportunity to make those all important changes that are needed to help you and your life to grow.
My main speciality is bereavement and loss.
Hello. Well done for wanting to seek out counselling and psychotherapy to help you explore what is holding you back from living a fulfilled life. It takes great courage and self awareness to take this first step. I offer you a safe, confidential place for you talk to someone who is trained to listen attentively to your problems. Allowing patience, self-belief, and compassion to be by your side, therapy can give you the opportunity to make those all important changes that are needed to help you and your life to grow.
01794 337474 View 01794 337474
Photo of Amanda Yaxley, MBACP, Counsellor
Amanda Yaxley
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Damerham SP6
I have experience with depression, anxiety, family relationships, addictions, eating disorders, loss and grief, OCD, bullying, abuse and low self-esteem to name but a few.
I offer a respectful, warm and empathetic ear, together with a safe, neutral space to help you to talk, and work through any issues you may have. I am not here to tell you what to do nor give advice; I am here to help you explore and discover your feelings I offer a free 10-15 minute consultation on the phone as a way to introduce myself and give you an opportunity to ask any questions you may have about me and the counselling process. Sessions will differ depending on the mode of therapy we decide to use. We may work more in the here and now or, we may look at where issues have stemmed from in the past: I will be led by you.
I have experience with depression, anxiety, family relationships, addictions, eating disorders, loss and grief, OCD, bullying, abuse and low self-esteem to name but a few.
I offer a respectful, warm and empathetic ear, together with a safe, neutral space to help you to talk, and work through any issues you may have. I am not here to tell you what to do nor give advice; I am here to help you explore and discover your feelings I offer a free 10-15 minute consultation on the phone as a way to introduce myself and give you an opportunity to ask any questions you may have about me and the counselling process. Sessions will differ depending on the mode of therapy we decide to use. We may work more in the here and now or, we may look at where issues have stemmed from in the past: I will be led by you.
07894 955242 View 07894 955242
Photo of Magna Maria Erasmus, MBACP, Counsellor
Magna Maria Erasmus
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ringwood BH24
I also have extensive experience in infant loss, end of life work and bereavement, depression and anxiety.
I have helped many clients change their thinking and heal emotionally so they can become who they want to be. I offer a compassionate space for clients to work through difficult thoughts and feelings to reclaim their lives and live life to the full. I offer specialist trauma support and work extensively with depression and anxiety.
I also have extensive experience in infant loss, end of life work and bereavement, depression and anxiety.
I have helped many clients change their thinking and heal emotionally so they can become who they want to be. I offer a compassionate space for clients to work through difficult thoughts and feelings to reclaim their lives and live life to the full. I offer specialist trauma support and work extensively with depression and anxiety.
01202 125419 View 01202 125419
Photo of Lyn Best, MBACP, Counsellor
Lyn Best
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bramshaw SO43
I can work with whatever is causing you distress but particularly work with anxiety, stress, relationship problems and bereavement.
Is anxiety or stress having an impact on your day-to-day life? Have you suffered a bereavement or loss? Perhaps you are feeling low, confused, having relationship problems. Do you want to be able to speak to someone in confidence, reflect on your life, consider choices to help provide clarity or meaning? Do you feel stuck or trapped? Are you feeling as if you are not being your true self and are pretending to be someone others want you to be, or often pleasing others? You may not be sure what is wrong. If life feels like a struggle at times, counselling can really help. Please get in touch by email with your contact details.
I can work with whatever is causing you distress but particularly work with anxiety, stress, relationship problems and bereavement.
Is anxiety or stress having an impact on your day-to-day life? Have you suffered a bereavement or loss? Perhaps you are feeling low, confused, having relationship problems. Do you want to be able to speak to someone in confidence, reflect on your life, consider choices to help provide clarity or meaning? Do you feel stuck or trapped? Are you feeling as if you are not being your true self and are pretending to be someone others want you to be, or often pleasing others? You may not be sure what is wrong. If life feels like a struggle at times, counselling can really help. Please get in touch by email with your contact details.
023 9200 2349 View 023 9200 2349
Photo of Lebo Molefe, MBACP, Counsellor
Lebo Molefe
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Salisbury SP1
I provide compassionate, personalised support for various life challenges, including depression and anxiety, racism, grief, loss (miscarriage, divorce, job loss), and major life transitions like relocation or immigration.
I am deeply committed to supporting individuals from all walks of life as they navigate physical, emotional, and mental health challenges. With a compassionate approach, I create a safe and nurturing space where you can explore your concerns, knowing that you’re not alone. Together, we’ll work through difficult times, step by step, until you feel empowered and confident in your ability to move forward independently. My goal is to help you rediscover your inner strength and resilience, ensuring you feel supported and understood throughout your journey.
I provide compassionate, personalised support for various life challenges, including depression and anxiety, racism, grief, loss (miscarriage, divorce, job loss), and major life transitions like relocation or immigration.
I am deeply committed to supporting individuals from all walks of life as they navigate physical, emotional, and mental health challenges. With a compassionate approach, I create a safe and nurturing space where you can explore your concerns, knowing that you’re not alone. Together, we’ll work through difficult times, step by step, until you feel empowered and confident in your ability to move forward independently. My goal is to help you rediscover your inner strength and resilience, ensuring you feel supported and understood throughout your journey.
01794 331145 View 01794 331145
Photo of Molly Brimson, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Molly Brimson
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Salisbury SP1
Perhaps you're feeling low or anxious - maybe you're struggling with decisions about the future of a relationship, or just feel stuck and unhappy with the life you are leading. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. I work with adults and young people from all works of life. My specialisms include: adults with anxiety and low self-esteem; Depression and low mood; Bereavement and loss Relationship difficulties; Patients and carers living with chronic and long-term health conditions, such as cancer or neurological conditions; young people aged 15-18 experiencing anxiety, attachment issues, bereavement and loss.
Perhaps you're feeling low or anxious - maybe you're struggling with decisions about the future of a relationship, or just feel stuck and unhappy with the life you are leading. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. I work with adults and young people from all works of life. My specialisms include: adults with anxiety and low self-esteem; Depression and low mood; Bereavement and loss Relationship difficulties; Patients and carers living with chronic and long-term health conditions, such as cancer or neurological conditions; young people aged 15-18 experiencing anxiety, attachment issues, bereavement and loss.
023 8144 0112 View 023 8144 0112
Photo of Maryann Byrne, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Maryann Byrne
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ferndown BH22
I am experienced in working with trauma, dissociation, anxiety and post-traumatic stress, sexual violence and domestic abuse, low self esteem, depression, loss and grief.
There are times when many of us feel we could benefit from emotional support and although making that first step to see a counsellor can seem enormous, it is a really positive step as talking in confidence to a professional counsellor can help bring clarity and healing and give you much needed support during a painful or anxious time. Counselling can help you make sense of your emotions and responses and empower you to make changes in your life. It facilitates the freedom to talk openly and confidentially, in a place where you will be really listened to.
I am experienced in working with trauma, dissociation, anxiety and post-traumatic stress, sexual violence and domestic abuse, low self esteem, depression, loss and grief.
There are times when many of us feel we could benefit from emotional support and although making that first step to see a counsellor can seem enormous, it is a really positive step as talking in confidence to a professional counsellor can help bring clarity and healing and give you much needed support during a painful or anxious time. Counselling can help you make sense of your emotions and responses and empower you to make changes in your life. It facilitates the freedom to talk openly and confidentially, in a place where you will be really listened to.
01202 125637 View 01202 125637
Photo of Verity Salmon - Counselling With Verity, MBACP, Counsellor
Counselling With Verity
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salisbury SP1
I am experienced in supporting people with bereavement, depression, anxiety, issues around gender and sexuality, separation, co-parenting and divorce, domestic and childhood abuse.
Beginning therapy is a brave and sometimes difficult decision. My approach is to build a trusting relationship where we can work in collaboration with one another. If you're struggling, the most important thing I hope you to feel in my practice is safe, safe to explore your feelings and experiences so that together we can help establish a way forward. Please note that occasional responses to enquiries can land in your email's "junk" or "spam" folder. If you are waiting for a reply, please check there. I aim to respond to all enquiries within three working days.
I am experienced in supporting people with bereavement, depression, anxiety, issues around gender and sexuality, separation, co-parenting and divorce, domestic and childhood abuse.
Beginning therapy is a brave and sometimes difficult decision. My approach is to build a trusting relationship where we can work in collaboration with one another. If you're struggling, the most important thing I hope you to feel in my practice is safe, safe to explore your feelings and experiences so that together we can help establish a way forward. Please note that occasional responses to enquiries can land in your email's "junk" or "spam" folder. If you are waiting for a reply, please check there. I aim to respond to all enquiries within three working days.
07449 517701 View 07449 517701
Photo of Zoë Pool, PhD, PNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Zoë Pool
Psychotherapist, PhD, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Ringwood BH24  (Online Only)
Since 1996 I have helped people to overcome the consequences of different types of trauma, including critical incidents, bereavement, loss, illness, and the enduring impact of adverse childhood experiences on adult life.
Finding the therapist that is right for you may feel a challenge, especially at a time when you may be feeling vulnerable or uncertain, perhaps facing a crisis point. This is not unusual, whether you have undertaken therapy in the past or whether this is the first time you have sought therapy. Sometimes we need help to overcome conflicts and blocks in ourselves and in our relationships that are confusing and difficult to face. I understand that you are a unique and complex individual, with many facets and aspects of who you are, how you experience yourself, and how you have had to adapt as you confront life's struggles.
Since 1996 I have helped people to overcome the consequences of different types of trauma, including critical incidents, bereavement, loss, illness, and the enduring impact of adverse childhood experiences on adult life.
Finding the therapist that is right for you may feel a challenge, especially at a time when you may be feeling vulnerable or uncertain, perhaps facing a crisis point. This is not unusual, whether you have undertaken therapy in the past or whether this is the first time you have sought therapy. Sometimes we need help to overcome conflicts and blocks in ourselves and in our relationships that are confusing and difficult to face. I understand that you are a unique and complex individual, with many facets and aspects of who you are, how you experience yourself, and how you have had to adapt as you confront life's struggles.
01354 705990 View 01354 705990
Photo of Emma Micklewright, MBACP, Counsellor
Emma Micklewright
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Salisbury SP1
I have experience in counselling depression, anxiety, trauma & bereavement.
Hello, my name is Emma. Whether you have had counselling before, or this is your first time seeking support, this is a positive step towards getting the relief and insight you are looking for. I can offer you an often much-needed, ‘sounding board’ and a safe place that is without expectation or judgment. As a qualified and experienced Psychotherapeutic Counsellor, I have the training and experience to listen with empathy; both attentively and effectively. It will be your space to explore and begin to take the steps to feel more yourself.
I have experience in counselling depression, anxiety, trauma & bereavement.
Hello, my name is Emma. Whether you have had counselling before, or this is your first time seeking support, this is a positive step towards getting the relief and insight you are looking for. I can offer you an often much-needed, ‘sounding board’ and a safe place that is without expectation or judgment. As a qualified and experienced Psychotherapeutic Counsellor, I have the training and experience to listen with empathy; both attentively and effectively. It will be your space to explore and begin to take the steps to feel more yourself.
023 8235 6365 View 023 8235 6365
Photo of Jeni Russell, MBACP, Counsellor
Jeni Russell
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salisbury SP2
I have experience of working with traumatic life experiences, anxiety and fear, low mood and depression, grief and loss, difficult feelings about yourself (low self-esteem, lack of confidence, fear of failure, body image issues, feeling out of control), relationship issues with family, partners, friends or colleagues.
Hello and well done on taking the first step towards finding some help, I know how hard it can be. I am here to help and support you. I am calm and caring and I offer full acceptance of whatever issues you may bring to the sessions. I am here to listen and offer you a safe space to explore your feelings, beliefs and behaviours. We will work together to help you reflect upon these and the areas of your life that you are finding difficult. I will support and guide you so that you can make positive change and increase your overall sense of wellbeing. We will always work at a pace that is comfortable for you.
I have experience of working with traumatic life experiences, anxiety and fear, low mood and depression, grief and loss, difficult feelings about yourself (low self-esteem, lack of confidence, fear of failure, body image issues, feeling out of control), relationship issues with family, partners, friends or colleagues.
Hello and well done on taking the first step towards finding some help, I know how hard it can be. I am here to help and support you. I am calm and caring and I offer full acceptance of whatever issues you may bring to the sessions. I am here to listen and offer you a safe space to explore your feelings, beliefs and behaviours. We will work together to help you reflect upon these and the areas of your life that you are finding difficult. I will support and guide you so that you can make positive change and increase your overall sense of wellbeing. We will always work at a pace that is comfortable for you.
01722 548916 View 01722 548916

See more therapy options for Fordingbridge

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.