Grief Therapists in Cherry Creek, Denver, CO

Photo of Allison Sand, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Allison Sand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
I am a compassionate and collaborative client-centered therapist, dedicated to helping patients navigate through periods of emotional stress, grief, life transitions, loss, and adjustment to chronic illness.
My work is grounded in psychodynamic and mind-body approaches, emphasizing the connection between emotional, physical and spiritual well-being. As an experienced individual therapist who has worked in various clinical and medical settings, I create a tailor-made plan for each client, integrating evidenced-based treatment approaches into each session.
I am a compassionate and collaborative client-centered therapist, dedicated to helping patients navigate through periods of emotional stress, grief, life transitions, loss, and adjustment to chronic illness.
My work is grounded in psychodynamic and mind-body approaches, emphasizing the connection between emotional, physical and spiritual well-being. As an experienced individual therapist who has worked in various clinical and medical settings, I create a tailor-made plan for each client, integrating evidenced-based treatment approaches into each session.
(720) 549-8735 View (720) 549-8735
Photo of Jessica Quick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jessica Quick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80206
Using a blend of CBT, person-first therapy and humanistic theory, complemented by mindfulness techniques and specialized grief counseling, Jess has worked in a wide variety of treatment settings for over eighteen years to help individuals and couples set, reach, and maintain goals.
Through compassion, humor, and a commitment to a strong therapeutic relationship and rapport, she helps clients bolster their self awareness and sense of self while simultaneously navigating pain and problems caused by grief and loss, anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, bipolar disorder, chronic and terminal illness, and distressed relationships.
Using a blend of CBT, person-first therapy and humanistic theory, complemented by mindfulness techniques and specialized grief counseling, Jess has worked in a wide variety of treatment settings for over eighteen years to help individuals and couples set, reach, and maintain goals.
Through compassion, humor, and a commitment to a strong therapeutic relationship and rapport, she helps clients bolster their self awareness and sense of self while simultaneously navigating pain and problems caused by grief and loss, anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, bipolar disorder, chronic and terminal illness, and distressed relationships.
(315) 707-4110 View (315) 707-4110
Photo of Alicia Carney, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Alicia Carney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
Has your life been disrupted by significant loss?
I have nine years of specialization in the areas of grief and loss, childhood bereavement, family systems, parent coaching, and trauma-informed care. I’ve worked with many individuals and families navigating devastating circumstances, and my passion is empowering people to cope with their grief as it evolves over time.
Has your life been disrupted by significant loss?
I have nine years of specialization in the areas of grief and loss, childhood bereavement, family systems, parent coaching, and trauma-informed care. I’ve worked with many individuals and families navigating devastating circumstances, and my passion is empowering people to cope with their grief as it evolves over time.
(720) 780-0245 View (720) 780-0245
Photo of Trayci Prince, Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC, NCC
Trayci Prince
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
Especially if experiencing depression, anxiety or grief related to stressful life transitions.
Doctorate training and specialization in integrative health and co-morbid medical and psychological health concerns. Additional expertise and extensive experience with LGBTQ youth, adults and families; and pediatric and adult HIV. Additional specialty in college & career assessment and counseling. EMDR Trained
Especially if experiencing depression, anxiety or grief related to stressful life transitions.
Doctorate training and specialization in integrative health and co-morbid medical and psychological health concerns. Additional expertise and extensive experience with LGBTQ youth, adults and families; and pediatric and adult HIV. Additional specialty in college & career assessment and counseling. EMDR Trained
(602) 714-2568 View (602) 714-2568
Photo of Kathryn E. Haber, Psychologist, PsyD
Kathryn E. Haber
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Specializations include anxiety, career coaching, stress management, trauma (EMDR trained), relationships, depression, coping with cancer, grief & loss, and spiritual exploration.
I provide a safe environment to help clients process their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I am passionate about providing therapy to support a deepened sense of self, health & wellness. I take a client-centered approach to help clients gain self-awareness, confidence, and practical insights so they may show up as their best selves every day.
Specializations include anxiety, career coaching, stress management, trauma (EMDR trained), relationships, depression, coping with cancer, grief & loss, and spiritual exploration.
I provide a safe environment to help clients process their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I am passionate about providing therapy to support a deepened sense of self, health & wellness. I take a client-centered approach to help clients gain self-awareness, confidence, and practical insights so they may show up as their best selves every day.
(720) 915-1114 View (720) 915-1114
Photo of Cindy L Wells, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Cindy L Wells
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80206
My work and life experience have led to a passion for partnering with persons dealing with grief, loss and life transitions.
I believe that the relationship between the therapist and client is fundamental in that it provides a safe and supportive framework for the individual to grow, explore, develop and heal. I have been in the mental health/wellness field since 1985 and in private practice since 1998. I have worked with a richly diverse group of individuals dealing with life in all of its complexities. I have felt honored throughout this time to walk along side the courageous individuals that have invited me to share in their journey.
My work and life experience have led to a passion for partnering with persons dealing with grief, loss and life transitions.
I believe that the relationship between the therapist and client is fundamental in that it provides a safe and supportive framework for the individual to grow, explore, develop and heal. I have been in the mental health/wellness field since 1985 and in private practice since 1998. I have worked with a richly diverse group of individuals dealing with life in all of its complexities. I have felt honored throughout this time to walk along side the courageous individuals that have invited me to share in their journey.
(720) 989-5695 View (720) 989-5695
Photo of Annie Vail, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CHT
Annie Vail
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
Perhaps you are dealing with anxiety or depression, grieving the death of a loved one or a painful breakup, struggle with belonging, or just feel stuck and know that you are ready to do something about it.
Are you looking for more than traditional talk therapy? I am a certified Hakomi Therapist, a mindfulness-based modality that uses the wisdom of the body to create real and meaningful change. I am also trained in multiple trauma and attachment-based modalities, IFS & Gestalt, compassionate communication (NVC), PACT couples therapy, and authentic relating.
Perhaps you are dealing with anxiety or depression, grieving the death of a loved one or a painful breakup, struggle with belonging, or just feel stuck and know that you are ready to do something about it.
Are you looking for more than traditional talk therapy? I am a certified Hakomi Therapist, a mindfulness-based modality that uses the wisdom of the body to create real and meaningful change. I am also trained in multiple trauma and attachment-based modalities, IFS & Gestalt, compassionate communication (NVC), PACT couples therapy, and authentic relating.
(503) 966-9615 View (503) 966-9615
Photo of Brittany Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Brittany Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am most comfortable treating substance use disorders, behavioral issues, trauma disorders and responses, family problems, boundary problems, life changes, relationship and sex related issues, conditions of overcontrol, and facilitating grief work.
Hi, I'm Brittany Murphy, LCSW, LCDC a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I am licensed to practice social work Colorado, New Jersey, Texas, and Washington. I earned my Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Houston. Prior to becoming a therapist/social worker, I worked in the corporate business world for several years. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
I am most comfortable treating substance use disorders, behavioral issues, trauma disorders and responses, family problems, boundary problems, life changes, relationship and sex related issues, conditions of overcontrol, and facilitating grief work.
Hi, I'm Brittany Murphy, LCSW, LCDC a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I am licensed to practice social work Colorado, New Jersey, Texas, and Washington. I earned my Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Houston. Prior to becoming a therapist/social worker, I worked in the corporate business world for several years. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
(303) 647-6945 View (303) 647-6945
Photo of Julienne Box, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Julienne Box
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My areas of practice include working with children/youth and adults, with anxiety, grief and loss, behavioral issues, and trauma experiences.
The clients I typically work with are children/youth, and adults working through trauma and PTSD. I am comfortable with clients needing the support and validation required to make changes in their lives so that they are able to live a fuller and content life.
My areas of practice include working with children/youth and adults, with anxiety, grief and loss, behavioral issues, and trauma experiences.
The clients I typically work with are children/youth, and adults working through trauma and PTSD. I am comfortable with clients needing the support and validation required to make changes in their lives so that they are able to live a fuller and content life.
(303) 590-3658 View (303) 590-3658
Photo of Kirt Baab, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kirt Baab
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am effective at helping them with loss and accepting changes in their lives they fear or resent.
Hi, I'm Kirt Baab, LCSW. I'm a clinical social worker with an extensive history providing treatment for anxiety, depression, and trauma. I use several treatment methods including: supportive counseling, cognitive behavioral counseling, somatic therapy, and mindfulness.
I am effective at helping them with loss and accepting changes in their lives they fear or resent.
Hi, I'm Kirt Baab, LCSW. I'm a clinical social worker with an extensive history providing treatment for anxiety, depression, and trauma. I use several treatment methods including: supportive counseling, cognitive behavioral counseling, somatic therapy, and mindfulness.
(303) 529-7739 View (303) 529-7739
Photo of Melinda Perry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Melinda Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence.
I value the client's insight and respect their right to self determination while providing options and support based on their needs. I also strive to meet my clients where they are and to respect their life experiences. I enjoy working with adults who are struggling with anxiety and depression concerns.
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence.
I value the client's insight and respect their right to self determination while providing options and support based on their needs. I also strive to meet my clients where they are and to respect their life experiences. I enjoy working with adults who are struggling with anxiety and depression concerns.
(720) 702-9845 View (720) 702-9845
Photo of Gioia Garden, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Gioia Garden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
I work with clients wrestling with sex, sexuality, anxiety, depression, relationships, grief, trauma, and life transitions.
I take a holistic and eclectic approach to therapy. I want to know your sources of pain - but I also want to know what you value, what has shaped you, where you draw inspiration, your beliefs, and how you feel in your own body. We’ll peel back layers, we'll process distress, and we'll build practical tools to manage the challenges you're facing. Ultimately, we’ll build a more authentic, empowered sense of self. If something is no longer serving you, let’s figure out how to change it. My areas of focus include sexuality, sex, identity, anxiety, depression, relationships, and life-transitions.
I work with clients wrestling with sex, sexuality, anxiety, depression, relationships, grief, trauma, and life transitions.
I take a holistic and eclectic approach to therapy. I want to know your sources of pain - but I also want to know what you value, what has shaped you, where you draw inspiration, your beliefs, and how you feel in your own body. We’ll peel back layers, we'll process distress, and we'll build practical tools to manage the challenges you're facing. Ultimately, we’ll build a more authentic, empowered sense of self. If something is no longer serving you, let’s figure out how to change it. My areas of focus include sexuality, sex, identity, anxiety, depression, relationships, and life-transitions.
(720) 547-2564 View (720) 547-2564
Photo of Kristen Chandler, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Kristen Chandler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80206
Topics such as depression, ADHD, self-esteem, anxiety, women's health, grief & loss, peer pressure, life transitions, relationships, divorce, chronic pain and family systems are all areas of expertise.
Kristen has been practicing 20+ years in a variety of treatment settings - working with children, adolescents, young adults and families. She collaborates with clients to increase their understanding of the therapeutic process and the opportunities for personal growth. Approachable, patient, responsive, and warm, Kristen deeply values relationships with clients, and works on creating a safe space for growth and authentic communication.
Topics such as depression, ADHD, self-esteem, anxiety, women's health, grief & loss, peer pressure, life transitions, relationships, divorce, chronic pain and family systems are all areas of expertise.
Kristen has been practicing 20+ years in a variety of treatment settings - working with children, adolescents, young adults and families. She collaborates with clients to increase their understanding of the therapeutic process and the opportunities for personal growth. Approachable, patient, responsive, and warm, Kristen deeply values relationships with clients, and works on creating a safe space for growth and authentic communication.
(720) 316-8240 View (720) 316-8240
Photo of Debbie Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Debbie Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
I work successfully with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship and family struggles, self-esteem issues and grief and loss.
Are you a stressed-out university student or dealing with a major life overhaul? Maybe brand new at the job, uprooted by a move across country or bombarded by the pressures of life on campus? An exhausted new parent, navigating tricky relationships with adult kids or reinventing yourself after retirement? Our lives are full of change and change is tough but a tremendous chance for reflection and growth. Learning to manage these changes intentionally and effectively will pave the way for what comes next.
I work successfully with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship and family struggles, self-esteem issues and grief and loss.
Are you a stressed-out university student or dealing with a major life overhaul? Maybe brand new at the job, uprooted by a move across country or bombarded by the pressures of life on campus? An exhausted new parent, navigating tricky relationships with adult kids or reinventing yourself after retirement? Our lives are full of change and change is tough but a tremendous chance for reflection and growth. Learning to manage these changes intentionally and effectively will pave the way for what comes next.
(720) 740-8656 View (720) 740-8656
Photo of Sharon Haag-Stremel, Psychologist, LCP
Sharon Haag-Stremel
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, gender and sexual identity exploration, and substance use, all from a culturally sensitive, affirming perspective.
Hi, I am Dr. Sharon Stremel, and I am a Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Professional Counselor. I believe therapy is a unique, ongoing process of growth and self-discovery. My approach is tailored to your individual needs, drawing from multiple therapeutic models. Whether you’re seeking practical tools to manage challenges or deeper healing, I adapt to what’s most effective for you. I use a variety of theoretical approaches, so I can match methods that are best suited for different types of individuals. I draw from approaches like CBT, DBT, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I work with issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, gender and sexual identity exploration, and substance use, all from a culturally sensitive, affirming perspective.
Hi, I am Dr. Sharon Stremel, and I am a Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Professional Counselor. I believe therapy is a unique, ongoing process of growth and self-discovery. My approach is tailored to your individual needs, drawing from multiple therapeutic models. Whether you’re seeking practical tools to manage challenges or deeper healing, I adapt to what’s most effective for you. I use a variety of theoretical approaches, so I can match methods that are best suited for different types of individuals. I draw from approaches like CBT, DBT, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
(844) 949-3759 View (844) 949-3759
Photo of Nicole Dunas, Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, MA, LPC
Nicole Dunas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
Waitlist for new clients
I've worked with individuals experiencing addiction, anxiety, depression, relationship/marital issues, grief, attachment issues, suicidal ideation, physical/sexual abuse and mental illness.
Creating a safe environment is where I begin. I see therapy as a collaborative process that can lead you toward a greater capacity for self-awareness, trust, clarity, a sense of meaning and freedom. Life gives us surprising obstacles, which can make us feel stuck, depressed, alone or scared. With therapeutic presence, creativity and guidance, we can change our relationship to obstacles and transform. Our darkest point may mark the moment we realize we want to change. I use yoga & creative writing in my practice, and am trained in mindfulness/somatic approaches, attachment + gestalt therapy, Focusing, DBT and Relational Life Therapy.
I've worked with individuals experiencing addiction, anxiety, depression, relationship/marital issues, grief, attachment issues, suicidal ideation, physical/sexual abuse and mental illness.
Creating a safe environment is where I begin. I see therapy as a collaborative process that can lead you toward a greater capacity for self-awareness, trust, clarity, a sense of meaning and freedom. Life gives us surprising obstacles, which can make us feel stuck, depressed, alone or scared. With therapeutic presence, creativity and guidance, we can change our relationship to obstacles and transform. Our darkest point may mark the moment we realize we want to change. I use yoga & creative writing in my practice, and am trained in mindfulness/somatic approaches, attachment + gestalt therapy, Focusing, DBT and Relational Life Therapy.
(720) 613-6799 View (720) 613-6799
Photo of Camille Sinclair, Psychologist, PhD
Camille Sinclair
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
I am both a Clinical and Health Psychologist; meaning, I have expertise in treating clients with psychological and emotional stressors (typically trauma, anxiety, grief and other stress responses); as well as clients with medical conditions negatively impacting their daily lives.
My work encompasses both private practice and consultancy. In private practice, I help clients redefine their grief and traumatic experiences, in order to reclaim their personal power, their joy and, at times, their bodies. As a consultant, I guide clients and their loved ones through the adjustment of a new health related or neurological diagnosis.
I am both a Clinical and Health Psychologist; meaning, I have expertise in treating clients with psychological and emotional stressors (typically trauma, anxiety, grief and other stress responses); as well as clients with medical conditions negatively impacting their daily lives.
My work encompasses both private practice and consultancy. In private practice, I help clients redefine their grief and traumatic experiences, in order to reclaim their personal power, their joy and, at times, their bodies. As a consultant, I guide clients and their loved ones through the adjustment of a new health related or neurological diagnosis.
(720) 802-2176 View (720) 802-2176
Photo of Gabrielle Newman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Gabrielle Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
My area of expertise involves working with clients struggling with ADHD, anxiety, OCD, self esteem issues, stress, trauma, grief, relationship/family issues, substance abuse and victims of narcissistic abuse.
Your next chapter — the life you truly desire — is waiting for you. Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, and it’s completely normal to feel stuck in old patterns or unsure about how to move forward. My approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and a deep sense of care — because therapy doesn't have to feel intimidating. I take pride in building a genuine connection with each client. Together, we’ll unlock your true potential and equip you with the tools and skills you need to confidently navigate life’s challenges and create lasting, meaningful change. You deserve more than just getting by — you deserve to thrive.
My area of expertise involves working with clients struggling with ADHD, anxiety, OCD, self esteem issues, stress, trauma, grief, relationship/family issues, substance abuse and victims of narcissistic abuse.
Your next chapter — the life you truly desire — is waiting for you. Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, and it’s completely normal to feel stuck in old patterns or unsure about how to move forward. My approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and a deep sense of care — because therapy doesn't have to feel intimidating. I take pride in building a genuine connection with each client. Together, we’ll unlock your true potential and equip you with the tools and skills you need to confidently navigate life’s challenges and create lasting, meaningful change. You deserve more than just getting by — you deserve to thrive.
(720) 782-1226 View (720) 782-1226
Photo of Bekka Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bekka Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
I use a strengths-based approach to help adults navigate a variety of life issues, specializing in anxiety, issues/trauma from childhood or family of origin, grief/ loss, and relationship/attachment issues.
You are an inherently resilient person who may sometimes need support through life challenges, strategies to move through the past or present, or just simply someone safe to talk to, and that is what aim to assist with. Each person is made up of valuable attributes that can be of great use to them in navigating life journeys—my job is to help you realize and expand upon those strengths to empower yourself, all while in a safe environment. I have worked in intensive outpatient, inpatient, and outpatient settings and use this experience to help my clients wherever they may be on their journey.
I use a strengths-based approach to help adults navigate a variety of life issues, specializing in anxiety, issues/trauma from childhood or family of origin, grief/ loss, and relationship/attachment issues.
You are an inherently resilient person who may sometimes need support through life challenges, strategies to move through the past or present, or just simply someone safe to talk to, and that is what aim to assist with. Each person is made up of valuable attributes that can be of great use to them in navigating life journeys—my job is to help you realize and expand upon those strengths to empower yourself, all while in a safe environment. I have worked in intensive outpatient, inpatient, and outpatient settings and use this experience to help my clients wherever they may be on their journey.
(720) 806-4207 View (720) 806-4207
Photo of Rebecca Hendershott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Rebecca Hendershott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, health issues, stress management and emotional distress.
My desire as a clinician is to walk and listen alongside you and empower you with everyday tools to use for growth, healing and freedom. Together we will explore and uncover your therapeutic needs with your story and narrative being the voice we listen to. I strive to create an open, honest and authentic space, adding some humor along the way, for you to feel safe, accepted and heard. I practice using evidenced based and trauma informed care. I am client centered, strengths based and solution focused and will use these modalities for your therapeutic needs.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, health issues, stress management and emotional distress.
My desire as a clinician is to walk and listen alongside you and empower you with everyday tools to use for growth, healing and freedom. Together we will explore and uncover your therapeutic needs with your story and narrative being the voice we listen to. I strive to create an open, honest and authentic space, adding some humor along the way, for you to feel safe, accepted and heard. I practice using evidenced based and trauma informed care. I am client centered, strengths based and solution focused and will use these modalities for your therapeutic needs.
(719) 581-5554 View (719) 581-5554

See more therapy options for Cherry Creek, Denver

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.