Grief Therapists in 60640

Photo of Lee Thompson, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lee Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I strive to cultivate a culturally-informed, sex and kink-positive space for clients to process thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I’m affirming of all expressions of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as non-traditional relationship structures. My background includes specific work with those who have experienced traumatic injuries, the sudden loss of a loved one, and interpersonal violence, as well as understanding and coping with complex medical diagnoses. I also work with folks experiencing distress related to anxiety, relationship concerns, and life transitions.
I strive to cultivate a culturally-informed, sex and kink-positive space for clients to process thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I’m affirming of all expressions of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as non-traditional relationship structures. My background includes specific work with those who have experienced traumatic injuries, the sudden loss of a loved one, and interpersonal violence, as well as understanding and coping with complex medical diagnoses. I also work with folks experiencing distress related to anxiety, relationship concerns, and life transitions.
(773) 974-8836 View (773) 974-8836
Photo of Courtney Emery, MA, LCPC
Courtney Emery
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Starting therapy takes great courage, and I would be honored to work with you. I am warm, collaborative and strengths based in my approach. I will carefully attend to the context of your life with a particular emphasis on intersectionality. I have extensive experience working with adults coping with severe and persistent mental illness, depression, anxiety and the impacts of trauma. I have special interests in grief recovery, trauma recovery and the needs of women and LGBTGEQ+ people.
Starting therapy takes great courage, and I would be honored to work with you. I am warm, collaborative and strengths based in my approach. I will carefully attend to the context of your life with a particular emphasis on intersectionality. I have extensive experience working with adults coping with severe and persistent mental illness, depression, anxiety and the impacts of trauma. I have special interests in grief recovery, trauma recovery and the needs of women and LGBTGEQ+ people.
(773) 985-2956 View (773) 985-2956
Photo of Helen Alex, PsyD, Psychologist
Helen Alex
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Losses and life transitions can change everything you thought you knew. Maybe a family member has been recently diagnosed with cancer, the loss of someone close to you has altered your outlook on life, or life transitions have changed your relationships with others or with yourself. I specialize in supporting adults who are navigating life changes, transitions, and losses. Together we will explore the best ways for you to cope with difficult emotions, understand yourself and who you are becoming, increase your sense of self-worth and purpose, and discover renewed direction in life.
Losses and life transitions can change everything you thought you knew. Maybe a family member has been recently diagnosed with cancer, the loss of someone close to you has altered your outlook on life, or life transitions have changed your relationships with others or with yourself. I specialize in supporting adults who are navigating life changes, transitions, and losses. Together we will explore the best ways for you to cope with difficult emotions, understand yourself and who you are becoming, increase your sense of self-worth and purpose, and discover renewed direction in life.
(331) 233-1379 View (331) 233-1379
Photo of Tori Hairston, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tori Hairston
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
As I specialize in complex trauma & grief, I focus on holding space for all emotions while identifying the source of the issues that may manifest as behavioral, emotional, or physiological symptoms.
Are you ready for breakthrough or simply desiring to heal on a deeper level? Well— as a compassionate, trauma-informed therapist, I am honored to walk alongside clients on their road to freedom through mental health healing. I endeavor to provide a safe space to bear witness to your innermost thoughts, feelings, & emotions while honoring them compassionately & without judgement. This therapeutic journey will lead you to heal your childhood & relationship wounds, break free from old behavioral patterns or negative thought loops, explore your identity, navigate life transitions, change the narrative of your story, & restore your hope.
As I specialize in complex trauma & grief, I focus on holding space for all emotions while identifying the source of the issues that may manifest as behavioral, emotional, or physiological symptoms.
Are you ready for breakthrough or simply desiring to heal on a deeper level? Well— as a compassionate, trauma-informed therapist, I am honored to walk alongside clients on their road to freedom through mental health healing. I endeavor to provide a safe space to bear witness to your innermost thoughts, feelings, & emotions while honoring them compassionately & without judgement. This therapeutic journey will lead you to heal your childhood & relationship wounds, break free from old behavioral patterns or negative thought loops, explore your identity, navigate life transitions, change the narrative of your story, & restore your hope.
(847) 750-4709 View (847) 750-4709
Photo of Andreya DeLarco, PsyD, Psychologist
Andreya DeLarco
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and young adults who have experienced trauma, as well as grief and loss.
I view treatment as a journey, where you are in the driver's seat and I am sitting alongside you, providing you the map to guide and support you along the way. My goal in working with clients is to creative a collaborative environment that supports the development of connection - connection to yourself, others, and the world around you. I believe ruptures in these various connections are the origin of emotional disturbances. I hope to have the opportunity to support you in your healing of these ruptures and develop meaningful connections.
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and young adults who have experienced trauma, as well as grief and loss.
I view treatment as a journey, where you are in the driver's seat and I am sitting alongside you, providing you the map to guide and support you along the way. My goal in working with clients is to creative a collaborative environment that supports the development of connection - connection to yourself, others, and the world around you. I believe ruptures in these various connections are the origin of emotional disturbances. I hope to have the opportunity to support you in your healing of these ruptures and develop meaningful connections.
(773) 673-9768 x2019 View (773) 673-9768 x2019
Photo of Kim Renee Bachelor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Renee Bachelor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone’s reason for seeking the support of a professional therapist is unique, and the decision to do so isn’t always easy. Whatever reason brought you here, and wherever you are in your journey, I hope that you feel proud of yourself for taking this step. The idea of talking to a stranger about your most private thoughts and feelings may seem overwhelming, but please know that I would be honored to get to know you and support you in your journey towards healing and growth. I have worked with individuals and couples facing a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, grief/loss, life transitions, and past or present trauma.
Everyone’s reason for seeking the support of a professional therapist is unique, and the decision to do so isn’t always easy. Whatever reason brought you here, and wherever you are in your journey, I hope that you feel proud of yourself for taking this step. The idea of talking to a stranger about your most private thoughts and feelings may seem overwhelming, but please know that I would be honored to get to know you and support you in your journey towards healing and growth. I have worked with individuals and couples facing a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, grief/loss, life transitions, and past or present trauma.
(773) 693-2813 View (773) 693-2813
Photo of Courtney Robinson, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
As the world moves around us and things feel out of control, you might need help to sort through it all. I am committed to holding space for you to work through the challenges you are facing and to helping you find ways to create a more balanced life. If you are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, needing more from your relationships, or wanting to get to know yourself on a deeper level, you are in the right place. I help clients living with grief + loss, anxiety, and trauma as well as those who are experiencing life transitions.
As the world moves around us and things feel out of control, you might need help to sort through it all. I am committed to holding space for you to work through the challenges you are facing and to helping you find ways to create a more balanced life. If you are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, needing more from your relationships, or wanting to get to know yourself on a deeper level, you are in the right place. I help clients living with grief + loss, anxiety, and trauma as well as those who are experiencing life transitions.
(773) 570-7136 View (773) 570-7136
Photo of Suzanne Gass, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Gass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Through relational, insight and behavioral therapeutic techniques, I work with individuals, families and adolescents, through grief; depression and anxiety; and complex relationships.
There are times when life's challenges keep us from being our better selves. It is during these times that meaningful support can help you achieve a balanced perspective and emotional well-being. Through patient centered, collaborative and gentle support, you will gain a better understanding of yourself and your relationships. In my office, I see you, NOT a diagnosis. I see your desire to heal, and grow, your strengths and opportunities to change. Our work together will lead to improved coping strategies, an improved outlook and the life you've longed for.
Through relational, insight and behavioral therapeutic techniques, I work with individuals, families and adolescents, through grief; depression and anxiety; and complex relationships.
There are times when life's challenges keep us from being our better selves. It is during these times that meaningful support can help you achieve a balanced perspective and emotional well-being. Through patient centered, collaborative and gentle support, you will gain a better understanding of yourself and your relationships. In my office, I see you, NOT a diagnosis. I see your desire to heal, and grow, your strengths and opportunities to change. Our work together will lead to improved coping strategies, an improved outlook and the life you've longed for.
(773) 207-4362 View (773) 207-4362
Photo of Brittany Trauthwein, PsyD, FT, Psychologist
Brittany Trauthwein
Psychologist, PsyD, FT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I have received specialized training in treating clients with grief and loss and supporting individuals and families dealing with cancer.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Bridgepoint Psychology Center and work with adults, children, and adolescents. I am honored to journey with you through challenging life transitions. My work is grounded in existential therapy, however I draw from narrative, trauma-informed, and grief focused therapies to meet the individual and unique needs of the clients in my care. Whether I am working with an adult or a child, I believe therapy should be transparent, genuine, and always collaborative. Pronouns (She/Her/Hers)
I have received specialized training in treating clients with grief and loss and supporting individuals and families dealing with cancer.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Bridgepoint Psychology Center and work with adults, children, and adolescents. I am honored to journey with you through challenging life transitions. My work is grounded in existential therapy, however I draw from narrative, trauma-informed, and grief focused therapies to meet the individual and unique needs of the clients in my care. Whether I am working with an adult or a child, I believe therapy should be transparent, genuine, and always collaborative. Pronouns (She/Her/Hers)
(773) 349-2466 View (773) 349-2466
Photo of Laura Vecchiolla, PsyD, CT, Psychologist
Laura Vecchiolla
Psychologist, PsyD, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Grief, loss, and trauma can have a profound and lasting impact on you or people you love. You may feel isolated from others and overwhelmed as you try to go about day-to-day tasks; you may struggle to feel safe, express your emotions, or understand how to make meaning from all that has happened. Other people might be telling you to “get over” it, as if grief has a deadline you haven’t met. Traumatic events from your past may bring up feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, or shame, which can prevent you from doing the things you want to do, affect your relationships, and make it hard to communicate or set healthy boundaries with others.
Grief, loss, and trauma can have a profound and lasting impact on you or people you love. You may feel isolated from others and overwhelmed as you try to go about day-to-day tasks; you may struggle to feel safe, express your emotions, or understand how to make meaning from all that has happened. Other people might be telling you to “get over” it, as if grief has a deadline you haven’t met. Traumatic events from your past may bring up feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, or shame, which can prevent you from doing the things you want to do, affect your relationships, and make it hard to communicate or set healthy boundaries with others.
(815) 627-4788 View (815) 627-4788
Photo of Angie Rush, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angie Rush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
With 16 years of experience in working with young children, I have a particular passion for working with children who experienced trauma and traumatic loss.
As a parent and as a therapist for young children, I wholeheartedly understand the various difficulties of raising children, as well as the great joys of parenthood. I view therapy with young children as a means to discover underlying issues that could be impacting a child's current emotional or behavioral presentation and working with the parents and child as a team in addressing those issues. I have a warm, inviting and causal style of interacting with families that helps them feel less anxiety about participating in the therapeutic process.
With 16 years of experience in working with young children, I have a particular passion for working with children who experienced trauma and traumatic loss.
As a parent and as a therapist for young children, I wholeheartedly understand the various difficulties of raising children, as well as the great joys of parenthood. I view therapy with young children as a means to discover underlying issues that could be impacting a child's current emotional or behavioral presentation and working with the parents and child as a team in addressing those issues. I have a warm, inviting and causal style of interacting with families that helps them feel less anxiety about participating in the therapeutic process.
(872) 256-9235 x2000 View (872) 256-9235 x2000
Photo of Dian Reid-Jancic, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dian Reid-Jancic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I work with clients around anxiety, depression, grief and loss, PTSD, childhood and adult sexual trauma, gender and identity concerns, and chronic substance use. My journey as a therapist is deeply rooted in a commitment to creating a safe and inclusive space for individuals from all walks of life. I strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment where clients can explore their inner selves and navigate life's complexities. My dedication to anti-oppressive work and self-improvement reflects my aspiration to be a more effective therapist and a positive force for change in the lives of my clients and our community as a whole.
I work with clients around anxiety, depression, grief and loss, PTSD, childhood and adult sexual trauma, gender and identity concerns, and chronic substance use. My journey as a therapist is deeply rooted in a commitment to creating a safe and inclusive space for individuals from all walks of life. I strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment where clients can explore their inner selves and navigate life's complexities. My dedication to anti-oppressive work and self-improvement reflects my aspiration to be a more effective therapist and a positive force for change in the lives of my clients and our community as a whole.
(773) 572-0944 View (773) 572-0944
Photo of Britt Shearin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Britt Shearin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, grief, ADHD coaching, life and gender transition, anxiety, depression, and psychosis.
I work with folks who are seeking a stronger sense of self-trust, ease, and ability to be connected and present in their life, hobbies, and relationships. Whether you are seeking to understand yourself, develop tools for managing stress, or align decisions with your values, you don't have to do it alone. Maybe you understand some of your patterns and past hurts, but still feel frustrated with what to do about them. Maybe life is changing and you need stability and a listening ear. I believe that self-compassion and acceptance paired with supportive relationships creates a more fulfilling life (with a little humor along the way)!
I specialize in trauma, grief, ADHD coaching, life and gender transition, anxiety, depression, and psychosis.
I work with folks who are seeking a stronger sense of self-trust, ease, and ability to be connected and present in their life, hobbies, and relationships. Whether you are seeking to understand yourself, develop tools for managing stress, or align decisions with your values, you don't have to do it alone. Maybe you understand some of your patterns and past hurts, but still feel frustrated with what to do about them. Maybe life is changing and you need stability and a listening ear. I believe that self-compassion and acceptance paired with supportive relationships creates a more fulfilling life (with a little humor along the way)!
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Photo of Kelly Schilder Ray, PhD, Psychologist
Kelly Schilder Ray
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I have solid training as a generalist, treating issues related to depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and relationships.
I consider it a privilege to work with clients as they navigate through times of pain, sorrow, and self-exploration. I appreciate learning from clients their goals for the therapy process and how they hope to change. I assist clients in understanding possible triggers to uncomfortable thoughts, feelings, or behaviors, while also identifying ways in which they may find themselves stuck. Together, we will identify healthy coping skills for managing and ultimately moving past the distress, leading to a healthier and lighter way of being.
I have solid training as a generalist, treating issues related to depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and relationships.
I consider it a privilege to work with clients as they navigate through times of pain, sorrow, and self-exploration. I appreciate learning from clients their goals for the therapy process and how they hope to change. I assist clients in understanding possible triggers to uncomfortable thoughts, feelings, or behaviors, while also identifying ways in which they may find themselves stuck. Together, we will identify healthy coping skills for managing and ultimately moving past the distress, leading to a healthier and lighter way of being.
(773) 717-2921 View (773) 717-2921
Photo of Lisa Schneider, LCPC, CYI, Counselor
Lisa Schneider
Counselor, LCPC, CYI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
Previously the director at a cancer support center, I focus on life-change, illness (cancer and chronic), end-of-life issues & grief.
I am licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) who has been providing counseling to individuals and families since 2000. My personal intention for working with you, and all of my clients, is to approach therapy from a holistic perspective. A holistic perspective looks at the mind, body, and spirit with the goal of bringing these aspects of self into harmony. My primary goal is to help you foster your own inner strength to create the life you want. You may find that the therapy process cultivates more peace in your life or changes the way you want to live. I am currently focusing on individuals only.
Previously the director at a cancer support center, I focus on life-change, illness (cancer and chronic), end-of-life issues & grief.
I am licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) who has been providing counseling to individuals and families since 2000. My personal intention for working with you, and all of my clients, is to approach therapy from a holistic perspective. A holistic perspective looks at the mind, body, and spirit with the goal of bringing these aspects of self into harmony. My primary goal is to help you foster your own inner strength to create the life you want. You may find that the therapy process cultivates more peace in your life or changes the way you want to live. I am currently focusing on individuals only.
(773) 295-7993 View (773) 295-7993
Photo of Amanda Atkins, MS, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Atkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
My specialties are in couple's issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss (particularly partner, parent, or child loss), chronic or terminal illness, as well as infertility and postpartum mood disorders. I enjoy treating issues related to parenting, including the complex demands placed on parents of disabled children. I’ve partnered with corporations to provide on-site therapy in the midst of workplace crisis and tragedy, as well as presenting on mental health issues in the workplace. My first book is coming out in spring of 2025 with Workman Publishing on the topic of disability parenting.
My specialties are in couple's issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss (particularly partner, parent, or child loss), chronic or terminal illness, as well as infertility and postpartum mood disorders. I enjoy treating issues related to parenting, including the complex demands placed on parents of disabled children. I’ve partnered with corporations to provide on-site therapy in the midst of workplace crisis and tragedy, as well as presenting on mental health issues in the workplace. My first book is coming out in spring of 2025 with Workman Publishing on the topic of disability parenting.
(312) 651-6909 View (312) 651-6909
Photo of Lee Wichman, LCPC, Counselor
Lee Wichman
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
With over 20 years of experience, I provide culturally sensitive psychotherapy to adult individuals and couples ages 18+. In a supportive setting, I strive to create a safe space where clients can focus on personal growth, self-integration, and positive change. I have experience working with issues of depression, anxiety, and various types of loss and bereavement. I also enjoy working with a fair amount of artists and performing artists who are seeking to increase their self-awareness, unblock their creativity and reach their full artistic potential.
With over 20 years of experience, I provide culturally sensitive psychotherapy to adult individuals and couples ages 18+. In a supportive setting, I strive to create a safe space where clients can focus on personal growth, self-integration, and positive change. I have experience working with issues of depression, anxiety, and various types of loss and bereavement. I also enjoy working with a fair amount of artists and performing artists who are seeking to increase their self-awareness, unblock their creativity and reach their full artistic potential.
(773) 530-3746 View (773) 530-3746
Photo of Paul M Martin, PsyD, Psychologist
Paul M Martin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
As the assistant director of The Center for Grief Recovery, I specialize in clinical work with loss, grief and trauma.
My style of therapy is best suited towards clients who hope to develop a meaningful therapeutic relationship that can be used to better understand and address uncomfortable feelings and problematic relational patterns. By helping clients talk about disappointing and hurtful relationships throughout their lives, I have been amazed to see how well clients can make sense of what once seemed confusing and disorienting, ultimately moving forward with greater confidence. Additionally, I have a deep respect for the healing process that ensues when people can express their feelings and thoughts free of fear or inhibition.
As the assistant director of The Center for Grief Recovery, I specialize in clinical work with loss, grief and trauma.
My style of therapy is best suited towards clients who hope to develop a meaningful therapeutic relationship that can be used to better understand and address uncomfortable feelings and problematic relational patterns. By helping clients talk about disappointing and hurtful relationships throughout their lives, I have been amazed to see how well clients can make sense of what once seemed confusing and disorienting, ultimately moving forward with greater confidence. Additionally, I have a deep respect for the healing process that ensues when people can express their feelings and thoughts free of fear or inhibition.
(773) 295-7682 View (773) 295-7682
Photo of Kate Dantoft, PsyD, Psychologist
Kate Dantoft
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I have received training for Reproductive Psychology, with an emphasis on infertility and prenatal/pregnancy loss.
I utilize an active and tailored approach that meets clients wherever they are at in life to make the therapy experience as effective and meaningful as possible. I think outside-the-box and will often use interventions that make use of the resources and strengths that are available to clients. I believe that human beings are resilient and deserve support through challenging times, and it is when they receive the support they need that they can achieve greater satisfaction and confidence in themselves, the world, and the future. I truly have a great passion for my profession.
I have received training for Reproductive Psychology, with an emphasis on infertility and prenatal/pregnancy loss.
I utilize an active and tailored approach that meets clients wherever they are at in life to make the therapy experience as effective and meaningful as possible. I think outside-the-box and will often use interventions that make use of the resources and strengths that are available to clients. I believe that human beings are resilient and deserve support through challenging times, and it is when they receive the support they need that they can achieve greater satisfaction and confidence in themselves, the world, and the future. I truly have a great passion for my profession.
(773) 382-0220 View (773) 382-0220
Photo of Dr. Cadmona A Hall, PhD, LMFT, FT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Cadmona A Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, FT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, work/life stress or couple issues I can help.
Hello, I'm Dr. Cadmona Hall, and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience. I specialize in working with couples, individuals, and families. I bring passion and energy to the therapy room. I believe you have the ability to heal difficulties in your lives but you may need some extra help and specific tools. I want you to have a happy, healthy and productive life. I'm here to work together with you to accomplish your goals.
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, work/life stress or couple issues I can help.
Hello, I'm Dr. Cadmona Hall, and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience. I specialize in working with couples, individuals, and families. I bring passion and energy to the therapy room. I believe you have the ability to heal difficulties in your lives but you may need some extra help and specific tools. I want you to have a happy, healthy and productive life. I'm here to work together with you to accomplish your goals.
(312) 548-9081 View (312) 548-9081
Grief Therapists

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.