Bereavement Counselling in North West London, London

See all counsellors in North West London, London
Photo of Rebecca Oehrle, Psychotherapist in North West London, London, England
Rebecca Oehrle
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified
North West London, London NW5
As a BACP registered psychodynamic psychotherapist/counsellor, I have experience of working with adults whose issues include anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, gender identity, addiction, bereavement , eating disorders and relationship issues I can work with you on either a long-term, ongoing basis or we can agree to a short-term contract.
If you’re reading this, it’s likely that you’re feeling out of sorts and would like some help and support to feel better. Sometimes life can throw us a curve ball that leaves us feeling overwhelmed or maybe you’ve had enough of feeling depressed and anxious, angry or sad. Perhaps you’re tired of repeating certain patterns of behaviour or relationships that leave you feeling empty and disappointed. I recognise it takes a lot of courage to seek help. My role is to help you understand better why you sometimes feel, think, or behave the way you do. With that knowledge in hand, you can begin to make positive changes in your life.
As a BACP registered psychodynamic psychotherapist/counsellor, I have experience of working with adults whose issues include anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, gender identity, addiction, bereavement , eating disorders and relationship issues I can work with you on either a long-term, ongoing basis or we can agree to a short-term contract.
If you’re reading this, it’s likely that you’re feeling out of sorts and would like some help and support to feel better. Sometimes life can throw us a curve ball that leaves us feeling overwhelmed or maybe you’ve had enough of feeling depressed and anxious, angry or sad. Perhaps you’re tired of repeating certain patterns of behaviour or relationships that leave you feeling empty and disappointed. I recognise it takes a lot of courage to seek help. My role is to help you understand better why you sometimes feel, think, or behave the way you do. With that knowledge in hand, you can begin to make positive changes in your life.
020 4538 9465 View 020 4538 9465
Photo of Natnalin Thananan, Counsellor in North West London, London, England
Natnalin Thananan
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified
1 Endorsed
North West London, London NW5
Hi, I'm Natnalin and I'm a counsellor based in North London. I work with clients who are going through major life challenges, such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief , or transitions and are looking for guidance and support to navigate these challenges effectively. I also work with clients from expat and multicultural backgrounds who are dealing with familial issues, self-identity and self-esteem issues and who appreciate a counsellor who can understand the complexities of multicultural identities.
Hi, I'm Natnalin and I'm a counsellor based in North London. I work with clients who are going through major life challenges, such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief , or transitions and are looking for guidance and support to navigate these challenges effectively. I also work with clients from expat and multicultural backgrounds who are dealing with familial issues, self-identity and self-esteem issues and who appreciate a counsellor who can understand the complexities of multicultural identities.
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Photo of Shane Tanner, Psychotherapist in North West London, London, England
Shane Tanner
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified
North West London, London NW6
I have worked for a service providing therapy for the LGBTQI+ community and for one specialising in providing grief & bereavement therapy.
Hi, I'm Shane, a humanistic therapist in NW6. I am trained as a Person-centered / Pluralistic Counsellor / Psychotherapist and am a registered MBACP Counsellor & Psychotherapist. Finding a moment for yourself may be difficult, - glad to see you were able to arrive and that you’ve made it this far – I feel it’s such a brave move to reach out for help. As humans I feel we are able to find a strength and resilience which allows us to be the best versions of ourselves. This may mean asking for some guidance, in a warm safe space to explore what’s coming up for you. I'm here to hold whatever you share without judgement and with empathy
I have worked for a service providing therapy for the LGBTQI+ community and for one specialising in providing grief & bereavement therapy.
Hi, I'm Shane, a humanistic therapist in NW6. I am trained as a Person-centered / Pluralistic Counsellor / Psychotherapist and am a registered MBACP Counsellor & Psychotherapist. Finding a moment for yourself may be difficult, - glad to see you were able to arrive and that you’ve made it this far – I feel it’s such a brave move to reach out for help. As humans I feel we are able to find a strength and resilience which allows us to be the best versions of ourselves. This may mean asking for some guidance, in a warm safe space to explore what’s coming up for you. I'm here to hold whatever you share without judgement and with empathy
020 3835 2657 View 020 3835 2657
Photo of David Reznik-Martov, Psychotherapist in North West London, London, England
David Reznik-Martov
Psychotherapist, MSc, BPC
Verified
North West London, London NW4
My name is David, I am a qualified psychodynamic psychotherapist. I provide Individual psychotherapy for younger and older adults, addressing a variety of issues from self-image and confidence to depression and bereavement . The sessions are available in English and Russian language. Online sessions are available via Skype or Zoom, making it convenient to attend remotely from anywhere in the world. After the first session, where we would have the opportunity to meet each other, explore your story and presented issues, I will offer you an open-ended work on a weekly basis or more frequent if you find it useful.
My name is David, I am a qualified psychodynamic psychotherapist. I provide Individual psychotherapy for younger and older adults, addressing a variety of issues from self-image and confidence to depression and bereavement . The sessions are available in English and Russian language. Online sessions are available via Skype or Zoom, making it convenient to attend remotely from anywhere in the world. After the first session, where we would have the opportunity to meet each other, explore your story and presented issues, I will offer you an open-ended work on a weekly basis or more frequent if you find it useful.
020 3962 0304 x44 View 020 3962 0304 x44
Photo of Roxanne Blumgart, Counsellor in North West London, London, England
Roxanne Blumgart
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified
North West London, London NW4
Perhaps you are feeling a bit depressed or anxious, or maybe you have experienced a loss .
Life is not always easy and there may be certain times where you feel stuck, unsupported, overwhelmed or confused. Perhaps a recent occurrence has caused you to feel emotional, or perhaps something from the past keeps revisiting but you cannot face it alone. Whatever your reason for seeking counselling, here you can feel free to explore your feelings at your own pace in a safe, non-judgmental environment, and can arrive at a place where you can better manage them. Through the therapy you can build resilience and emerge with a better understanding of yourself and feel happier and more comfortable within yourself.
Perhaps you are feeling a bit depressed or anxious, or maybe you have experienced a loss .
Life is not always easy and there may be certain times where you feel stuck, unsupported, overwhelmed or confused. Perhaps a recent occurrence has caused you to feel emotional, or perhaps something from the past keeps revisiting but you cannot face it alone. Whatever your reason for seeking counselling, here you can feel free to explore your feelings at your own pace in a safe, non-judgmental environment, and can arrive at a place where you can better manage them. Through the therapy you can build resilience and emerge with a better understanding of yourself and feel happier and more comfortable within yourself.
07446 898255 View 07446 898255
Photo of Sinem Uyanik, Psychotherapist in North West London, London, England
Sinem Uyanik
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified
North West London, London NW5  (Online Only)
Life can become overwhelming, confusing, and difficult to manage. Experiences such as loss , bereavement and major life changes like a medical crisis can make us lose our sense of self and purpose. Depression, anxiety and personality disorders can distort our sense of self, rob us off our full personal potential and quality of life leaving us feeling depleted. Therapy is a place to regain and restore your sense of self and purpose and to help you turn these experiences to an opportunity to grow.
Life can become overwhelming, confusing, and difficult to manage. Experiences such as loss , bereavement and major life changes like a medical crisis can make us lose our sense of self and purpose. Depression, anxiety and personality disorders can distort our sense of self, rob us off our full personal potential and quality of life leaving us feeling depleted. Therapy is a place to regain and restore your sense of self and purpose and to help you turn these experiences to an opportunity to grow.
01792 720572 View 01792 720572
Photo of Corina Voelklein, Psychotherapist in North West London, London, England
Corina Voelklein
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified
North West London, London NW1  (Online Only)
Have you hit rock bottom? Do you feel you can't stop worrying? Are you afraid of losing your temper? I can help you overcome depression, anxiety, anger or relationship issues or support you in coping with bereavement and loss .
Have you hit rock bottom? Do you feel you can't stop worrying? Are you afraid of losing your temper? I can help you overcome depression, anxiety, anger or relationship issues or support you in coping with bereavement and loss .
020 3668 0886 View 020 3668 0886
Photo of Leela Faezeh Emadi, Counsellor in North West London, London, England
Leela Faezeh Emadi
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified
North West London, London NW1  (Online Only)
These are just some of the reasons why you may want to try counselling with me: Couple therapy or other relationships issues, Depression, Anxiety, Panic attacks, Trauma and PTSD, Neurodivergence, Illness, Bereavement , Self-esteem and self-confidence, Gender and Sexuality, Anger, Self-harming/Destructive thoughts and behaviour and loneliness.
Welcome! I’m Leela and I'm a BACP Accredited Counsellor. You have now made the decision of taking the first steps towards a change... Isn't that exciting? In my counselling work, I aim to support you to make more conscious decisions and choices about your life and embody the unique being you are. I celebrate the differences and my life has been enriched by interacting with different cultures, religions, race, beliefs, age, gender and sexual orientation, etc.
These are just some of the reasons why you may want to try counselling with me: Couple therapy or other relationships issues, Depression, Anxiety, Panic attacks, Trauma and PTSD, Neurodivergence, Illness, Bereavement , Self-esteem and self-confidence, Gender and Sexuality, Anger, Self-harming/Destructive thoughts and behaviour and loneliness.
Welcome! I’m Leela and I'm a BACP Accredited Counsellor. You have now made the decision of taking the first steps towards a change... Isn't that exciting? In my counselling work, I aim to support you to make more conscious decisions and choices about your life and embody the unique being you are. I celebrate the differences and my life has been enriched by interacting with different cultures, religions, race, beliefs, age, gender and sexual orientation, etc.
020 3856 7746 View 020 3856 7746
Photo of Caitlin Griffiths, Counsellor in North West London, London, England
Caitlin Griffiths
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified
1 Endorsed
North West London, London NW5
I am a Humanistic Integrative Counsellor & Psychotherapist specialising in working with anxiety, loss , relationship issues, depression and issues relating to self worth and self-esteem.
We all go through times in our life where we may struggle. Whether your difficulties stem from things happening now, or from past experiences, I hope we can work together to help you understand yourself better and cope better with emotional demands. This could be through exploring patterns of behaviour, responses to emotional situations or ways of being in relationships. Perhaps you’re feeling anxious, upset, low or overwhelmed by negative or frightening feelings? Maybe struggling in your relationships or just feeling stuck. Talking openly about how you are feeling can be very powerful, helping to ease and reduce troubling thoughts
I am a Humanistic Integrative Counsellor & Psychotherapist specialising in working with anxiety, loss , relationship issues, depression and issues relating to self worth and self-esteem.
We all go through times in our life where we may struggle. Whether your difficulties stem from things happening now, or from past experiences, I hope we can work together to help you understand yourself better and cope better with emotional demands. This could be through exploring patterns of behaviour, responses to emotional situations or ways of being in relationships. Perhaps you’re feeling anxious, upset, low or overwhelmed by negative or frightening feelings? Maybe struggling in your relationships or just feeling stuck. Talking openly about how you are feeling can be very powerful, helping to ease and reduce troubling thoughts
020 3912 7462 View 020 3912 7462
Photo of Leela Walcott, Counsellor in North West London, London, England
Leela Walcott
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified
North West London, London NW5
I can support you with issues such as bereavement , grief , loss , cultural identity issues, relationships problems, low mood and interpersonal difficulties.
I am a qualified integrative counsellor which means my approach offers a number of therapeutic orientations best suited to your particular needs. I offer a supportive and confidential space for you to feel safe to examine your thoughts, feelings and behaviour. I will collaborate with you to explore your goals and changes you may wish to see in your lives. Coupled with my professional skills sets, I believe my relationship with you is paramount, therefore I endeavour to form an empathetic and honest alliance.
I can support you with issues such as bereavement , grief , loss , cultural identity issues, relationships problems, low mood and interpersonal difficulties.
I am a qualified integrative counsellor which means my approach offers a number of therapeutic orientations best suited to your particular needs. I offer a supportive and confidential space for you to feel safe to examine your thoughts, feelings and behaviour. I will collaborate with you to explore your goals and changes you may wish to see in your lives. Coupled with my professional skills sets, I believe my relationship with you is paramount, therefore I endeavour to form an empathetic and honest alliance.
020 3823 6240 View 020 3823 6240
Photo of David Mayes, Counsellor in North West London, London, England
David Mayes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified
1 Endorsed
North West London, London NW2
I have worked with a wide range of issues such as addictions, mens issues, bereavement , relationships, abuse, depression and racial/cultural identity.
Hello there and welcome to my profile. Clients are always welcome to bring any issue to therapy, no matter how big or small they may feel it is and would like support with their issue. They have a desire for change. They've come to therapy because they would like to explore, understand themselves better, their issue and the emotions surrounding it. To process what is or has happened. To make a real lasting impact. I offer a competitive rate because I truly believe that therapy should be as accessible as possible.
I have worked with a wide range of issues such as addictions, mens issues, bereavement , relationships, abuse, depression and racial/cultural identity.
Hello there and welcome to my profile. Clients are always welcome to bring any issue to therapy, no matter how big or small they may feel it is and would like support with their issue. They have a desire for change. They've come to therapy because they would like to explore, understand themselves better, their issue and the emotions surrounding it. To process what is or has happened. To make a real lasting impact. I offer a competitive rate because I truly believe that therapy should be as accessible as possible.
020 3757 5232 View 020 3757 5232
Photo of Belinda Donn, Psychotherapist in North West London, London, England
Belinda Donn
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified
2 Endorsed
North West London, London NW11
As a therapist specialising in grief & loss , I understand that you may not be able to share what’s going on with those closest to you without feeling like a “burden” or know how to manage those waves of grief that seem to come out of nowhere.
Have you recently experienced the death of a loved one, the end of a marriage or relationship, or a significant life transition that has you wondering how life will ever feel normal again? Grief shows up in many ways in life, and it looks different for everyone. But one thing is always true: grief changes us. Maybe you’re in survival mode: fighting just to stay above water in the day to day. Or perhaps you feel like you don’t recognise yourself: more angry, less motivated, or experiencing emotions that feel completely foreign. Your grief may be so overwhelming that you don’t even know what you feel.
As a therapist specialising in grief & loss , I understand that you may not be able to share what’s going on with those closest to you without feeling like a “burden” or know how to manage those waves of grief that seem to come out of nowhere.
Have you recently experienced the death of a loved one, the end of a marriage or relationship, or a significant life transition that has you wondering how life will ever feel normal again? Grief shows up in many ways in life, and it looks different for everyone. But one thing is always true: grief changes us. Maybe you’re in survival mode: fighting just to stay above water in the day to day. Or perhaps you feel like you don’t recognise yourself: more angry, less motivated, or experiencing emotions that feel completely foreign. Your grief may be so overwhelming that you don’t even know what you feel.
020 3835 2633 View 020 3835 2633
Photo of Karen Badby, Counsellor in North West London, London, England
Karen Badby
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified
North West London, London NW1
I support clients within a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment, providing the time and space for you to talk about the difficult issues you may be experiencing. I have worked with clients seeking help with issues including - anger, anxiety, bereavement , bullying, disconnection, feeling stuck, finding your voice, grief , identity and difference, life changes, loneliness, loss , marginalisation issues, parenthood, post-natal difficulties, shyness, & stress. An area of work I am also interested in is supporting clients in coping with the legacy of a difficult start in life. Sessions offered via telephone, Skype and Zoom.
I support clients within a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment, providing the time and space for you to talk about the difficult issues you may be experiencing. I have worked with clients seeking help with issues including - anger, anxiety, bereavement , bullying, disconnection, feeling stuck, finding your voice, grief , identity and difference, life changes, loneliness, loss , marginalisation issues, parenthood, post-natal difficulties, shyness, & stress. An area of work I am also interested in is supporting clients in coping with the legacy of a difficult start in life. Sessions offered via telephone, Skype and Zoom.
020 3974 2658 View 020 3974 2658
Photo of Sílvia - Meneses Bueno, Counsellor in North West London, London, England
Sílvia - Meneses Bueno
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified
1 Endorsed
North West London, London NW3
I am a qualified Integrative Therapist, BACP member. I am also a Psychosynthesis psychotherapist in training at the Institute of Psychosynthesis, and completing a Masters in Psychosynthesis Psychology. I work with issues of depression, anxiety, addictions, bereavement , low self-esteem, family issues, spiritual crisis and other blockages and traumas. I practice meditation, especially pranayama (breathing meditation), which I can incorporate within the session, if you so choose. Walking therapy in the enchanted Hampstead Heath is also a possibility you might prefer.
I am a qualified Integrative Therapist, BACP member. I am also a Psychosynthesis psychotherapist in training at the Institute of Psychosynthesis, and completing a Masters in Psychosynthesis Psychology. I work with issues of depression, anxiety, addictions, bereavement , low self-esteem, family issues, spiritual crisis and other blockages and traumas. I practice meditation, especially pranayama (breathing meditation), which I can incorporate within the session, if you so choose. Walking therapy in the enchanted Hampstead Heath is also a possibility you might prefer.
020 3929 3470 View 020 3929 3470
Photo of Adetoun Adams, Psychotherapist in North West London, London, England
Adetoun Adams
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified
North West London, London NW4
I commonly work with trauma, childhood issues, bereavement , depression and anxiety issues.
You might be hurting due to early childhood trauma that you have tried to keep hidden from yourself and those around you for some time now. It might have been difficult to share these feelings with family, friends or colleagues, maybe due to lack of confidentiality, being judged or not being understood. In this space, you have the opportunity to explore delicate issues rooted in the past that have remained unresolved and affecting the present. I am a fully qualified, registered and experienced Psychodynamic counsellor and Cognitive Behaviour Therapist. l provide a non-judgemental, safe, confidential and respectful space.
I commonly work with trauma, childhood issues, bereavement , depression and anxiety issues.
You might be hurting due to early childhood trauma that you have tried to keep hidden from yourself and those around you for some time now. It might have been difficult to share these feelings with family, friends or colleagues, maybe due to lack of confidentiality, being judged or not being understood. In this space, you have the opportunity to explore delicate issues rooted in the past that have remained unresolved and affecting the present. I am a fully qualified, registered and experienced Psychodynamic counsellor and Cognitive Behaviour Therapist. l provide a non-judgemental, safe, confidential and respectful space.
020 8138 8529 View 020 8138 8529
Photo of Assia Zubair Bandukda, Counsellor in North West London, London, England
Assia Zubair Bandukda
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified
1 Endorsed
North West London, London NW10
As an integrative counsellor, I draw on a number of modalities of counselling & CBT to support my clients. Acceptance without judgement and offering a safe and confidential space for my clients is at the core of my practice. I have helped clients from all backgrounds to manage; low mood, anxiety, depression and low self esteem. I work with both individual and couples therapy clients ( Accredited- Tavistock Relationships). I support clients facing relationship difficulties and those looking for help with loss / bereavement . I bring culturally sensitive awareness to all my work including the impact of identity, race & faith.
As an integrative counsellor, I draw on a number of modalities of counselling & CBT to support my clients. Acceptance without judgement and offering a safe and confidential space for my clients is at the core of my practice. I have helped clients from all backgrounds to manage; low mood, anxiety, depression and low self esteem. I work with both individual and couples therapy clients ( Accredited- Tavistock Relationships). I support clients facing relationship difficulties and those looking for help with loss / bereavement . I bring culturally sensitive awareness to all my work including the impact of identity, race & faith.
07588 738178 View 07588 738178
Photo of Joan Elaine Hall, Counsellor in North West London, London, England
Joan Elaine Hall
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified
1 Endorsed
North West London, London NW10  (Online Only)
I am a warm empathic psychotherapist who have journeyed with a degree of clients with presenting issues naming some ; body dismorphia, domestic violence, bereavement , suicide ideation, sexual heal, sleep health and CYP.
I feel clients want a place that they can be their authentic selves. They wish to be free to express themselves without a fear of being judgement. They need to feel that they are heard and what they say matters. They wish to be met at the point of their needs.
I am a warm empathic psychotherapist who have journeyed with a degree of clients with presenting issues naming some ; body dismorphia, domestic violence, bereavement , suicide ideation, sexual heal, sleep health and CYP.
I feel clients want a place that they can be their authentic selves. They wish to be free to express themselves without a fear of being judgement. They need to feel that they are heard and what they say matters. They wish to be met at the point of their needs.
020 3856 8056 View 020 3856 8056
Photo of Valerie Lemetayer, Counsellor in North West London, London, England
Valerie Lemetayer
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified
North West London, London NW1
I work together with clients to explore difficulties in relationships, conflict, anxiety, depression, loss , workplace stress, self-confidence and self-esteem issues, loneliness, life transitions, and anger management.
From £50 Tuesday to Saturday. Central London and Ealing. ( See Website). Appointments are available all day from early morning to late evening. Hello and thank you for looking at my page. I believe that every client I work with is unique. My approach is therefore flexible and sensitive to the individual life experience of each on. I offer both short-term, solution-focused therapy and longer-term exploratory therapy to individuals over 18 years in English or French.
I work together with clients to explore difficulties in relationships, conflict, anxiety, depression, loss , workplace stress, self-confidence and self-esteem issues, loneliness, life transitions, and anger management.
From £50 Tuesday to Saturday. Central London and Ealing. ( See Website). Appointments are available all day from early morning to late evening. Hello and thank you for looking at my page. I believe that every client I work with is unique. My approach is therefore flexible and sensitive to the individual life experience of each on. I offer both short-term, solution-focused therapy and longer-term exploratory therapy to individuals over 18 years in English or French.
020 3962 0885 View 020 3962 0885
Photo of Pooja Bhambra, Psychotherapist in North West London, London, England
Pooja Bhambra
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified
North West London, London NW6
Family life can be full of drama, from adolescent struggles to parental conflict, from family feuds to experiences of love and loss . When families are faced with problems and experience difficulties in their relationships, self-help is often the first natural response. However, sometimes, self-help is not enough and can lead families to feel stuck. It is at this point that it can be beneficial to access professional help. My name is Pooja Bhambra, I am a UKCP registered systemic family psychotherapist. My approach to working with families is to see each member as an individual, who is influenced by multiple contexts.
Family life can be full of drama, from adolescent struggles to parental conflict, from family feuds to experiences of love and loss . When families are faced with problems and experience difficulties in their relationships, self-help is often the first natural response. However, sometimes, self-help is not enough and can lead families to feel stuck. It is at this point that it can be beneficial to access professional help. My name is Pooja Bhambra, I am a UKCP registered systemic family psychotherapist. My approach to working with families is to see each member as an individual, who is influenced by multiple contexts.
020 4538 2514 View 020 4538 2514
Photo of Lara Just, Psychotherapist in North West London, London, England
Lara Just
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified
North West London, London NW3
Do you sometimes feel lost or unsure about what your purpose is? Why you are here? Why life has happened as it did so far? Are you struggling to get through a tough life transition, loss or grief ? Are you at times not sure what you have to offer to the world; what you are meant to do or what you really want? Do you find it difficult to trust others or are wondering how to improve your relationships with others? I offer a safe, unbiased space to talk that is removed from your direct family and friends. This freedom to speak openly can be helpful when trying to talk through tricky and uncomfortable feelings.
Do you sometimes feel lost or unsure about what your purpose is? Why you are here? Why life has happened as it did so far? Are you struggling to get through a tough life transition, loss or grief ? Are you at times not sure what you have to offer to the world; what you are meant to do or what you really want? Do you find it difficult to trust others or are wondering how to improve your relationships with others? I offer a safe, unbiased space to talk that is removed from your direct family and friends. This freedom to speak openly can be helpful when trying to talk through tricky and uncomfortable feelings.
020 3879 4156 View 020 3879 4156

See more therapy options for North West London, London

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.