Grief Therapists in 02482

Photo of Tracey L Ross - Tracey L Ross LMHC llc, LMHC, Counselor
Tracey L Ross LMHC llc
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02482
Death and non- death losses often change family dynamics and roles.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults around issues of grief and loss ( death and non- death: divorce, relationship changes, life transitions, adoption, chronic illness) and anxiety. Through my many years working with bereaved children and their caregivers, I have learned that we all grieve our losses in our own way and in our own time. In an attempt to create a refuge from the cultural pressure “to move on,” I strive to offer a welcoming, nurturing, and safe space for you to grieve your loss, to find hope and connection, and to discover ways to heal and to grow.
Death and non- death losses often change family dynamics and roles.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults around issues of grief and loss ( death and non- death: divorce, relationship changes, life transitions, adoption, chronic illness) and anxiety. Through my many years working with bereaved children and their caregivers, I have learned that we all grieve our losses in our own way and in our own time. In an attempt to create a refuge from the cultural pressure “to move on,” I strive to offer a welcoming, nurturing, and safe space for you to grieve your loss, to find hope and connection, and to discover ways to heal and to grow.
(617) 415-4978 View (617) 415-4978
Photo of Jenn Kneeland, LMHC, Counselor
Jenn Kneeland
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
As humans, we often experience significant overwhelm from our sensory environment, trauma, and stress that can increase disassociation and make it difficult to process emotions. I believe that through reconnecting to the body in creative spaces we can improve our understanding and processing of emotions. As an Expressive Arts Therapist I specialize in a trauma-informed, mind-body approach and I work mainly with veterans and service members, complicated grief, family and relationship dynamics, anxiety, LQBTQIA+ community, and non-monogamy relationship structures.
As humans, we often experience significant overwhelm from our sensory environment, trauma, and stress that can increase disassociation and make it difficult to process emotions. I believe that through reconnecting to the body in creative spaces we can improve our understanding and processing of emotions. As an Expressive Arts Therapist I specialize in a trauma-informed, mind-body approach and I work mainly with veterans and service members, complicated grief, family and relationship dynamics, anxiety, LQBTQIA+ community, and non-monogamy relationship structures.
(774) 500-6437 View (774) 500-6437
Photo of Dr. Dawn Balcazar - Dawn Balcazar, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Dawn Balcazar, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
Specialties: Bereavement and loss.
With 35 years of experience, I do individual psychotherapy with all age groups. Issues include loss; relational difficulties; regulating moods; self-injury; sadness and depression; and healing from a history of childhood abuse; infidelity, navigating the divorce process. While all sorts of folks are welcome here, my areas of expertise are: 1. in helping college students through that developmental transition, especially those who are first generation. 2. Helping people to navigate transitions and losses such as death as well as the divorce process.
Specialties: Bereavement and loss.
With 35 years of experience, I do individual psychotherapy with all age groups. Issues include loss; relational difficulties; regulating moods; self-injury; sadness and depression; and healing from a history of childhood abuse; infidelity, navigating the divorce process. While all sorts of folks are welcome here, my areas of expertise are: 1. in helping college students through that developmental transition, especially those who are first generation. 2. Helping people to navigate transitions and losses such as death as well as the divorce process.
(508) 332-7305 View (508) 332-7305
Photo of Allie Stefanelli, LCSW, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allie Stefanelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I have extensive experience supporting those navigating trauma in the maternal & perinatal period including loss, complex medical diagnosis, NICU stays, and birth trauma.
I specialize in perinatal/postpartum mental health and trauma. I do so by creating a safe space in order to build a strong therapeutic relationship. It is then that we can explore your personal experience while working to discover and strengthen coping skills to promote resiliency. My work is heavily trauma informed with roots in Attachment work, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
I have extensive experience supporting those navigating trauma in the maternal & perinatal period including loss, complex medical diagnosis, NICU stays, and birth trauma.
I specialize in perinatal/postpartum mental health and trauma. I do so by creating a safe space in order to build a strong therapeutic relationship. It is then that we can explore your personal experience while working to discover and strengthen coping skills to promote resiliency. My work is heavily trauma informed with roots in Attachment work, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
(508) 731-2766 View (508) 731-2766
Photo of Frances Green, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frances Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
I try to welcome my clients in to my practice by providing a safe, supportive warm, quiet and non-judgmental space. I enjoy working with Individuals, Couples, and Families aged 10 and older. I have treated people with mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Substance and Alcohol Abuse, Grief, Divorce and other major life stressors. I believe that it is important to look at both the difficulties in life and what works in your life.
I try to welcome my clients in to my practice by providing a safe, supportive warm, quiet and non-judgmental space. I enjoy working with Individuals, Couples, and Families aged 10 and older. I have treated people with mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Substance and Alcohol Abuse, Grief, Divorce and other major life stressors. I believe that it is important to look at both the difficulties in life and what works in your life.
(508) 568-6028 View (508) 568-6028
Photo of Alex Rosenstein, PsyD, Psychologist
Alex Rosenstein
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people seeking help with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD), ADHD, behavioral issues, social difficulties, weight loss, academic underachievement, relationships, life decisions or adjustments, loss, chronic pain and illness.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist currently providing therapy to adolescents and adults. My work is based predominantly on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a psychotherapeutic approach aimed at reducing distressed moods and problematic behaviors by identifying and altering maladaptive patterns of thought. Research has shown that CBT can be a highly effective treatment option for a number of mental health concerns. In addition, I am a Licensed School Psychologist specializing in applying clinical techniques to manage social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties in children and adolescents in the school setting.
I specialize in working with people seeking help with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD), ADHD, behavioral issues, social difficulties, weight loss, academic underachievement, relationships, life decisions or adjustments, loss, chronic pain and illness.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist currently providing therapy to adolescents and adults. My work is based predominantly on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a psychotherapeutic approach aimed at reducing distressed moods and problematic behaviors by identifying and altering maladaptive patterns of thought. Research has shown that CBT can be a highly effective treatment option for a number of mental health concerns. In addition, I am a Licensed School Psychologist specializing in applying clinical techniques to manage social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties in children and adolescents in the school setting.
(781) 996-2656 View (781) 996-2656
Photo of Irena Cafasso, LMHC, Counselor
Irena Cafasso
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
My areas of specialization include Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders/Body image, Grief/ Loss, Addiction, as well as Trauma.
I offer a warm, compassionate and approachable environment with hope that each client has chance to be exactly who they are in the moment. I give each client my fullest, as I believe the power of being truly heard and seen without judgement. I believe that therapy is not necessarily about trying to fix oneself or fix one’s life, but an act of self-care. And, that increased self-awareness and self-compassion, both greatly contribute to healthier life and inner peace.
My areas of specialization include Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders/Body image, Grief/ Loss, Addiction, as well as Trauma.
I offer a warm, compassionate and approachable environment with hope that each client has chance to be exactly who they are in the moment. I give each client my fullest, as I believe the power of being truly heard and seen without judgement. I believe that therapy is not necessarily about trying to fix oneself or fix one’s life, but an act of self-care. And, that increased self-awareness and self-compassion, both greatly contribute to healthier life and inner peace.
(339) 218-3448 View (339) 218-3448
Photo of Grace Fotiades, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Grace Fotiades
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I have a particular interest in anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, OCD, and issues related to relationship challenges, grief, self-esteem, life transitions, and emerging adulthood.
I work with teens, adolescents, and young adults both virtually and in-person. I have a passion for collaborating with clients to promote their mental wellness and support them in achieving their goals. I strive to have a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by all of my clients. I draw from a wide range of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I have a particular interest in anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, OCD, and issues related to relationship challenges, grief, self-esteem, life transitions, and emerging adulthood.
I work with teens, adolescents, and young adults both virtually and in-person. I have a passion for collaborating with clients to promote their mental wellness and support them in achieving their goals. I strive to have a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by all of my clients. I draw from a wide range of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(774) 515-4395 View (774) 515-4395
Photo of Richard M Wilson, PsyD, Psychologist
Richard M Wilson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
I work collaboratively with adult and adolescent clients in numerous areas: Helping to resolve relationship conflicts and frustrations, depression, anxiety, stress management, trauma, improving self-confidence, finding more meaning and purpose in life, spirituality, grief / loss, parent coaching, couples, and pre-marriage counseling, I have a forward-looking style and try to take a "strengths-based" perspective. My clients would describe me as professional, authentic, calming, playful, and down to earth. I have moved my practice to Telehealth only starting in June 2022.
I work collaboratively with adult and adolescent clients in numerous areas: Helping to resolve relationship conflicts and frustrations, depression, anxiety, stress management, trauma, improving self-confidence, finding more meaning and purpose in life, spirituality, grief / loss, parent coaching, couples, and pre-marriage counseling, I have a forward-looking style and try to take a "strengths-based" perspective. My clients would describe me as professional, authentic, calming, playful, and down to earth. I have moved my practice to Telehealth only starting in June 2022.
(781) 995-3336 View (781) 995-3336
Photo of Alex Harris, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alex Harris
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I am passionate about creating a supportive, non-judgmental, and safe environment where my clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and struggles. I firmly believe in the collaborative nature of therapy. Building trust and fostering a positive therapeutic relationship are vital components of a successful therapeutic experience. I work with children, teens, young adults, and families, and I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, relational issues, trauma, life transitions, and grief.
I am passionate about creating a supportive, non-judgmental, and safe environment where my clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and struggles. I firmly believe in the collaborative nature of therapy. Building trust and fostering a positive therapeutic relationship are vital components of a successful therapeutic experience. I work with children, teens, young adults, and families, and I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, relational issues, trauma, life transitions, and grief.
(774) 772-5192 View (774) 772-5192
Photo of Wendy Rotfort, PsyD, Psychologist
Wendy Rotfort
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I work with clients ages 12 though mature adulthood on issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal conflict, relationship concerns, sexuality, life transitions and loss.
Welcome! I believe that the most successful therapy occurs when a strong clinical rapport is developed between therapist and client(s). To that end, I will work with you (or your teen) to create a warm, therapeutic environment where we can collaboratively determine your needs and goals, and then work together toward achieving those goals. My approach to therapy is eclectic, which means I pull from a number of different theoretical orientations. This allows me the flexibility to tailor the treatment according to your unique needs.
I work with clients ages 12 though mature adulthood on issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal conflict, relationship concerns, sexuality, life transitions and loss.
Welcome! I believe that the most successful therapy occurs when a strong clinical rapport is developed between therapist and client(s). To that end, I will work with you (or your teen) to create a warm, therapeutic environment where we can collaboratively determine your needs and goals, and then work together toward achieving those goals. My approach to therapy is eclectic, which means I pull from a number of different theoretical orientations. This allows me the flexibility to tailor the treatment according to your unique needs.
(781) 708-4947 View (781) 708-4947
Photo of Colleen E McHorney - Colleen E. McHorney, LICSW, LLC, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen E. McHorney, LICSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
More specifically, people struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, drug/alcohol abuse, relationships, grief/ loss, anger management, & life transitions.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by feelings of fear, anxiety, anger or sadness and don't know why? Have you ever felt like no one is really listening or truly understands how you are feeling inside? While taking the first step toward seeking help can be difficult, I believe finding a therapist who is the right fit for you can make all the difference. I would describe myself as a caring, genuine and candid therapist with a grounded, supportive and direct style that provides a calming environment, allowing you to feel comfortable and at ease in discussing your personal issues.
More specifically, people struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, drug/alcohol abuse, relationships, grief/ loss, anger management, & life transitions.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by feelings of fear, anxiety, anger or sadness and don't know why? Have you ever felt like no one is really listening or truly understands how you are feeling inside? While taking the first step toward seeking help can be difficult, I believe finding a therapist who is the right fit for you can make all the difference. I would describe myself as a caring, genuine and candid therapist with a grounded, supportive and direct style that provides a calming environment, allowing you to feel comfortable and at ease in discussing your personal issues.
(857) 576-5779 View (857) 576-5779
Photo of Miriam Waldheter, PhD, Psychologist
Miriam Waldheter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
You can learn about my practice at my website: www.miriamwaldheterphd.com. I offer a collaborative space to address a range of issues, with a particular interest in working with life's big transitions. For example, people in family changes: entering long-term commitments, parenthood, divorce, or grief; or professionals launching their careers and students formulating their vocational goals. Additionally, I work with the complex intersection between one’s identity and community, including but not limited to LGBTQIA, faith, and immigration/acculturation.
You can learn about my practice at my website: www.miriamwaldheterphd.com. I offer a collaborative space to address a range of issues, with a particular interest in working with life's big transitions. For example, people in family changes: entering long-term commitments, parenthood, divorce, or grief; or professionals launching their careers and students formulating their vocational goals. Additionally, I work with the complex intersection between one’s identity and community, including but not limited to LGBTQIA, faith, and immigration/acculturation.
(617) 855-6444 View (617) 855-6444
Photo of Anthony Mastrocola, LMHC, Counselor
Anthony Mastrocola
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I am a strengths-based, caring clinician, and my clinical training is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for children and adults. My clinical experience includes treating children, adolescents, young adults, and adults who may be struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, impulse control/hyperactivity, OCD, socialization, autism spectrum disorder, grief, and trauma. I have experience collaborating with clients and family members to best support their goals and interests.
I am a strengths-based, caring clinician, and my clinical training is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for children and adults. My clinical experience includes treating children, adolescents, young adults, and adults who may be struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, impulse control/hyperactivity, OCD, socialization, autism spectrum disorder, grief, and trauma. I have experience collaborating with clients and family members to best support their goals and interests.
(774) 255-5776 View (774) 255-5776
Photo of Allison Jones, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
Additionally, I help support those struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, as well significant medical challenges/caregiver support and grief.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with the struggles of everyday life? Do you feel controlled by unwanted intrusive thoughts? Are you struggling to cope with grief? Starting therapy can be an intimidating journey for many individuals. Throughout my years of experience, I've learned that establishing a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship is of vital importance. My approach is to meet you where you are, listen attentively, and begin building this foundation right from our first session. Let’s partner together to navigate your path to mental wellness..
Additionally, I help support those struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, as well significant medical challenges/caregiver support and grief.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with the struggles of everyday life? Do you feel controlled by unwanted intrusive thoughts? Are you struggling to cope with grief? Starting therapy can be an intimidating journey for many individuals. Throughout my years of experience, I've learned that establishing a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship is of vital importance. My approach is to meet you where you are, listen attentively, and begin building this foundation right from our first session. Let’s partner together to navigate your path to mental wellness..
(781) 725-6338 View (781) 725-6338
Photo of Jean Goldstone, LMHC, Counselor
Jean Goldstone
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
I have helped many people navigate grief, anxiety, depression, betrayal, unresolved trauma and more.
There are times when life feels particularly hard. If you’re experiencing overwhelming stress, worry, sadness, trouble coping or simply a lack of motivation, please know that you don’t have to go it alone. Perhaps you’re in the middle of a break-up or facing a loss that seems unmanageable. Or maybe you’re struggling in your personal relationships, frustrated or feeling exhausted by putting others’ needs before your own. Possibly you’re not sure what is wrong, but you feel unable to find the happiness you crave.
I have helped many people navigate grief, anxiety, depression, betrayal, unresolved trauma and more.
There are times when life feels particularly hard. If you’re experiencing overwhelming stress, worry, sadness, trouble coping or simply a lack of motivation, please know that you don’t have to go it alone. Perhaps you’re in the middle of a break-up or facing a loss that seems unmanageable. Or maybe you’re struggling in your personal relationships, frustrated or feeling exhausted by putting others’ needs before your own. Possibly you’re not sure what is wrong, but you feel unable to find the happiness you crave.
(781) 427-7404 View (781) 427-7404
Photo of Tiana McCrory, LICSW, MSW, C-DBT, CCATP, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiana McCrory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, C-DBT, CCATP, CCTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02482
Are you overwhelmed and struggling to make it through the day? Are you a queer person dealing with feelings of identity? Or are you a teen/young adult having a hard time focusing, making friends, or finding your lifestyle? All of this is hard. I'm proud of you for looking for support. I'd love to help. My specific areas of focus include those in the LGBTQIA+ communities, as well as those experiencing grief/ loss, ADHD, self-destructive behaviors, anger, depression, PTSD, and substance use. I work with teens, young adults, and adult individuals using evidence-based techniques such as IFS, DBT, CBT, and EFT.
Are you overwhelmed and struggling to make it through the day? Are you a queer person dealing with feelings of identity? Or are you a teen/young adult having a hard time focusing, making friends, or finding your lifestyle? All of this is hard. I'm proud of you for looking for support. I'd love to help. My specific areas of focus include those in the LGBTQIA+ communities, as well as those experiencing grief/ loss, ADHD, self-destructive behaviors, anger, depression, PTSD, and substance use. I work with teens, young adults, and adult individuals using evidence-based techniques such as IFS, DBT, CBT, and EFT.
(339) 217-8966 View (339) 217-8966
Photo of Emilia Taliento, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emilia Taliento
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I have assisted individuals dealing with an array of mental health challenges, including domestic violence, chronic relapse, relationship issues, grief and loss, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, domestic violence, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, or life changes? I can assist you with developing coping skills, practicing mindfulness, and utilizing tools to manage your mental health effectively. I aim to work with clients willing to help themselves and open to the therapeutic process. This mindset will allow us to build a positive therapeutic relationship that can bring about positive changes in their lives.
I have assisted individuals dealing with an array of mental health challenges, including domestic violence, chronic relapse, relationship issues, grief and loss, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, domestic violence, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, or life changes? I can assist you with developing coping skills, practicing mindfulness, and utilizing tools to manage your mental health effectively. I aim to work with clients willing to help themselves and open to the therapeutic process. This mindset will allow us to build a positive therapeutic relationship that can bring about positive changes in their lives.
(508) 475-5709 View (508) 475-5709
Photo of Karen Rafferty Keighley, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Rafferty Keighley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
As both an adoptee and a therapist (LICSW) specializing in adoption issues, I bring personal and professional experience to help adult adoptees navigate the unique challenges of their experiences. Issues related to identity, attachment, and the lack of genetic mirroring can impact adoptees at various life stages. Significant life events, such as the birth of a child, the death of a loved one, or relationship challenges, can be particularly difficult. I want you to know that you’re not alone and that these struggles are normal. I am here to help you work through these emotions and develop more effective coping strategies.
As both an adoptee and a therapist (LICSW) specializing in adoption issues, I bring personal and professional experience to help adult adoptees navigate the unique challenges of their experiences. Issues related to identity, attachment, and the lack of genetic mirroring can impact adoptees at various life stages. Significant life events, such as the birth of a child, the death of a loved one, or relationship challenges, can be particularly difficult. I want you to know that you’re not alone and that these struggles are normal. I am here to help you work through these emotions and develop more effective coping strategies.
(508) 231-9192 View (508) 231-9192
Photo of Kristen Bettencourt, PsyD, Psychologist
Kristen Bettencourt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02482
With a warm, down-to-earth, supportive, and engaged style, I help clients work through challenges such as depression, anxiety, OCD, relationship difficulties, life transitions, grief, academic and career concerns, and creative blocks. Whether we are working to help you more fully understand yourself; reflecting on patterns that may be getting in your way; processing painful feelings or memories; identifying sources of meaning, purpose, and strength in your life; or exploring aspects of your identity, my goal is for you to feel understood and accepted, and that our time together will make a meaningful difference in your life.
With a warm, down-to-earth, supportive, and engaged style, I help clients work through challenges such as depression, anxiety, OCD, relationship difficulties, life transitions, grief, academic and career concerns, and creative blocks. Whether we are working to help you more fully understand yourself; reflecting on patterns that may be getting in your way; processing painful feelings or memories; identifying sources of meaning, purpose, and strength in your life; or exploring aspects of your identity, my goal is for you to feel understood and accepted, and that our time together will make a meaningful difference in your life.
(617) 849-9901 View (617) 849-9901
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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.