Photo of Jan Santora-Farrar, Counselor in 98020, WA
Jan Santora-Farrar
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
Psychotherapy for individuals and groups regarding life issues: work, aging, health, relationships, finances, loss and grief, and experiencing the Self. I facilitate adaptation to ongoing living loss such as a medical diagnosis, forced estrangement, or the failing health of a beloved family member. Coping skills are formed early to survive in family-of-origin, which is a microcosm of the culture. As we age, these skills become less adaptive, causing pain. Successful transition through life involves changing ways of coping with life-enhancing skills, and building resilience through healing attachment issues and trauma.
Psychotherapy for individuals and groups regarding life issues: work, aging, health, relationships, finances, loss and grief, and experiencing the Self. I facilitate adaptation to ongoing living loss such as a medical diagnosis, forced estrangement, or the failing health of a beloved family member. Coping skills are formed early to survive in family-of-origin, which is a microcosm of the culture. As we age, these skills become less adaptive, causing pain. Successful transition through life involves changing ways of coping with life-enhancing skills, and building resilience through healing attachment issues and trauma.
(206) 569-4835 View (206) 569-4835
Photo of Cyndee M Baldwin, Counselor in 98020, WA
Cyndee M Baldwin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
I will help you to have more meaningful relationships in life, utilize your talents and abilities more fully, maintain a more truthful and accurate self-esteem, have more satisfying sexual relationships, understand yourself and others in a more meaningful way, and face life's challenges with greater freedom and flexibility. My specialty is relational psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and groups which aids in transformation for most issues in life: grief, loss, anxiety, depression and transition, to name a few. Take the step today toward your own transformation and healing, a lifelong investment.
I will help you to have more meaningful relationships in life, utilize your talents and abilities more fully, maintain a more truthful and accurate self-esteem, have more satisfying sexual relationships, understand yourself and others in a more meaningful way, and face life's challenges with greater freedom and flexibility. My specialty is relational psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and groups which aids in transformation for most issues in life: grief, loss, anxiety, depression and transition, to name a few. Take the step today toward your own transformation and healing, a lifelong investment.
(425) 358-3404 View (425) 358-3404
Photo of Ben Watson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98020, WA
Ben Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
My training and experience has primarily been with teens and adults experiencing a wide array of topics including sexual abuse, complicated grief, religious trauma, anxiety, family conflict, depression, loss, and identify exploration.
The greatest and most freeing gifts you can give yourself are self-exploration and compassion. Together, you and I can work collaboratively to further develop these qualities and foster your innate resilience. My goal is for you to feel safe, challenged, and empowered during our time together. The sheer fact that you are seeking support demonstrates an immense strength and courage. As a psychotherapist, I aim to create a non-judgmental, open-minded, and secure environment for clients to explore their feelings candidly and honestly. I utilize a variety of techniques and tailor treatment to the unique needs of the client.
My training and experience has primarily been with teens and adults experiencing a wide array of topics including sexual abuse, complicated grief, religious trauma, anxiety, family conflict, depression, loss, and identify exploration.
The greatest and most freeing gifts you can give yourself are self-exploration and compassion. Together, you and I can work collaboratively to further develop these qualities and foster your innate resilience. My goal is for you to feel safe, challenged, and empowered during our time together. The sheer fact that you are seeking support demonstrates an immense strength and courage. As a psychotherapist, I aim to create a non-judgmental, open-minded, and secure environment for clients to explore their feelings candidly and honestly. I utilize a variety of techniques and tailor treatment to the unique needs of the client.
(425) 287-6156 View (425) 287-6156
Photo of Terry Green, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98020, WA
Terry Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
As the wife of a Vietnam Vet, I understand the challenges many veteran couples and families face with transitions, secondary trauma, grief, and loss.
Couples or individuals struggling with conflict, stress, or overwhelming circumstances will find a safe place here to sort their thoughts and feelings about the issues while learning to repair and create deeper connections with loved ones. As a systems therapist, I understand the challenges of life transitions and help strengthen couple relationships and family cohesion and resilience through various life challenges. For clients struggling with past family of origin issues, we work to heal difficult memories. I help clients grow from brokenness, trauma, grief and loss to find healing, hope, peace and a new direction.
As the wife of a Vietnam Vet, I understand the challenges many veteran couples and families face with transitions, secondary trauma, grief, and loss.
Couples or individuals struggling with conflict, stress, or overwhelming circumstances will find a safe place here to sort their thoughts and feelings about the issues while learning to repair and create deeper connections with loved ones. As a systems therapist, I understand the challenges of life transitions and help strengthen couple relationships and family cohesion and resilience through various life challenges. For clients struggling with past family of origin issues, we work to heal difficult memories. I help clients grow from brokenness, trauma, grief and loss to find healing, hope, peace and a new direction.
(206) 569-5580 View (206) 569-5580
Photo of Beth Griffith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98020, WA
Beth Griffith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
I work with individuals coping with grief, stress, transition, depression, anxiety and marital conflict.
I am here to support and encourage you as you journey through your days, facing the joys and trials that come your way. This is sacred ground, and it is both an honor and a privilege to be allowed into the deep, private areas of your life.You will find that this is not something I take lightly but, rather, with humility and deep respect for your courage and willingness to be vulnerable. My desire is to sit with those who are hurting and to walk alongside those who are on a journey towards healing, wholeness, or personal growth.
I work with individuals coping with grief, stress, transition, depression, anxiety and marital conflict.
I am here to support and encourage you as you journey through your days, facing the joys and trials that come your way. This is sacred ground, and it is both an honor and a privilege to be allowed into the deep, private areas of your life.You will find that this is not something I take lightly but, rather, with humility and deep respect for your courage and willingness to be vulnerable. My desire is to sit with those who are hurting and to walk alongside those who are on a journey towards healing, wholeness, or personal growth.
(317) 348-4094 View (317) 348-4094
Photo of Matthew David Markell, Counselor in 98020, WA
Matthew David Markell
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
My areas of focus for therapy include the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, grief and loss, stress management, parenting skills, life transitions, personal growth, spiritual exploration and healing from religious trauma. I provide an LGBTQIA-friendly environment for individual and family therapy treatment.
My areas of focus for therapy include the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, grief and loss, stress management, parenting skills, life transitions, personal growth, spiritual exploration and healing from religious trauma. I provide an LGBTQIA-friendly environment for individual and family therapy treatment.
(425) 589-9900 View (425) 589-9900
Photo of Carolyn Akhtar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98020, WA
Carolyn Akhtar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients. There is no question life has its ups and downs. Sometimes we all just need a little extra support. I work with people from many walks of life dealing with many different situations. I treat adolescents, adults, couples and families with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life changes, relationships, addiction, trauma and many other challenges.
I am accepting new clients. There is no question life has its ups and downs. Sometimes we all just need a little extra support. I work with people from many walks of life dealing with many different situations. I treat adolescents, adults, couples and families with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life changes, relationships, addiction, trauma and many other challenges.
(425) 532-3265 View (425) 532-3265
Photo of Monique Ngo, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98020, WA
Monique Ngo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
I am an integrative and culturally sensitive driven therapist who works with teens and adults to unlearn systemic inequalities and process intergenerational trauma, grief, and anxiety, so you can confidently befriend your feelings, navigate life transitions, step into authenticity, and feel more at home in yourself. Often times when we are going through something difficult, it can be hard to see our way out. This may lead to spiraling thoughts, a lost sense of security & safety, thinking "I'm not good enough", consistently feeling on edge, and feeling disconnected from ourselves and others.
I am an integrative and culturally sensitive driven therapist who works with teens and adults to unlearn systemic inequalities and process intergenerational trauma, grief, and anxiety, so you can confidently befriend your feelings, navigate life transitions, step into authenticity, and feel more at home in yourself. Often times when we are going through something difficult, it can be hard to see our way out. This may lead to spiraling thoughts, a lost sense of security & safety, thinking "I'm not good enough", consistently feeling on edge, and feeling disconnected from ourselves and others.
(206) 823-2701 View (206) 823-2701
Photo of Debby Fields, Counselor in 98020, WA
Debby Fields
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
Have you or your loved ones experienced trauma, loss, or unmet needs? Are you feeling defeated and hopeless about your relationship with your child or spouse? If your messages to yourself are critical and self-defeating, or your communication with family members is strained and ineffective, you are continually bumping up against the same walls. Understanding and nurturing are necessary for your healing and growth. With awareness and support you can have peace in your heart and joy in your relationships.
Have you or your loved ones experienced trauma, loss, or unmet needs? Are you feeling defeated and hopeless about your relationship with your child or spouse? If your messages to yourself are critical and self-defeating, or your communication with family members is strained and ineffective, you are continually bumping up against the same walls. Understanding and nurturing are necessary for your healing and growth. With awareness and support you can have peace in your heart and joy in your relationships.
(425) 307-5207 View (425) 307-5207
Photo of Kelly Druin Sievertson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98020, WA
Kelly Druin Sievertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
I focus on adults and adolescents with trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety.
Life's stressors can be overwhelming. Therapy shows us new ways of being and engaging through practicing adaptive skills and mindfulness. I help my clients uncover connections between past experiences that shape their current ways of coping. This leads to the ability to recognize inner strengths, identify and embrace discomfort, and cultivate self-compassion to find peace and true connection. With empathetic listening in a safe environment, I strive to be my client’s ally. I use cognitive and somatic modalities to connect mind and body and tailor my approach to your needs, even using humor when appropriate!
I focus on adults and adolescents with trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety.
Life's stressors can be overwhelming. Therapy shows us new ways of being and engaging through practicing adaptive skills and mindfulness. I help my clients uncover connections between past experiences that shape their current ways of coping. This leads to the ability to recognize inner strengths, identify and embrace discomfort, and cultivate self-compassion to find peace and true connection. With empathetic listening in a safe environment, I strive to be my client’s ally. I use cognitive and somatic modalities to connect mind and body and tailor my approach to your needs, even using humor when appropriate!
(206) 202-9974 View (206) 202-9974
Photo of Leslie Fleming, Counselor in 98020, WA
Leslie Fleming
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of Specialization: couples; sexual assault, domestic violence, trauma recovery; traumatic brain injury; LGBTQ and sexuality issues; poly and kink friendly; chronic and terminal illness; spiritual crisis; death and dying/grief and loss; personal growth, self-awareness, fulfillment.
I offer a unique, holistic approach to transformational healing and growth through a weaving of shamanism, psychotherapy, and coaching. I am direct, compassionate, and intuitive in working with clients, offering deep integrity, fortitude, and over 3 decades of shamanic practice supporting journeys of healing, personal mastery, and authenticity. The transformational work of embodying who you truly are and why you are here is a beautiful, challenging journey of embracing and integrating all of who you are with deep compassion and fierce love. A journey I invite you to take and am honored to support.
Areas of Specialization: couples; sexual assault, domestic violence, trauma recovery; traumatic brain injury; LGBTQ and sexuality issues; poly and kink friendly; chronic and terminal illness; spiritual crisis; death and dying/grief and loss; personal growth, self-awareness, fulfillment.
I offer a unique, holistic approach to transformational healing and growth through a weaving of shamanism, psychotherapy, and coaching. I am direct, compassionate, and intuitive in working with clients, offering deep integrity, fortitude, and over 3 decades of shamanic practice supporting journeys of healing, personal mastery, and authenticity. The transformational work of embodying who you truly are and why you are here is a beautiful, challenging journey of embracing and integrating all of who you are with deep compassion and fierce love. A journey I invite you to take and am honored to support.
(206) 745-6238 View (206) 745-6238
Photo of Niko Palacios, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98020, WA
Niko Palacios
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Sometimes we struggle to make meaning where life has thrown us a curveball: a death, a divorce, coming out, or even a pandemic. It’s overwhelming trying to bring order to chaos, at times having to impossibly reconcile competing truths. “It gets better” fails to appreciate the acute pain of the moment, only going so far in moving the needle towards hope. In an age where humans are increasingly polarized, buoyed by deeply held beliefs, there remains a need for something more than personal happiness alone. As a relational Therapist, I help clients find sustainable wellness; prioritizing relationship with self and others over ideology.
Sometimes we struggle to make meaning where life has thrown us a curveball: a death, a divorce, coming out, or even a pandemic. It’s overwhelming trying to bring order to chaos, at times having to impossibly reconcile competing truths. “It gets better” fails to appreciate the acute pain of the moment, only going so far in moving the needle towards hope. In an age where humans are increasingly polarized, buoyed by deeply held beliefs, there remains a need for something more than personal happiness alone. As a relational Therapist, I help clients find sustainable wellness; prioritizing relationship with self and others over ideology.
(206) 222-2942 View (206) 222-2942
Photo of Frances Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98020, WA
Frances Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Frances Murphy, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
If you are struggling in your daily life with symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, conflict, grief and loss, stress or PTSD or you’re burnt out at work, We can partner to help you figure out a way to honor your true nature, effectively communicate, gain clarity and the skills you need to thrive in your life.
Reaching out is a big decision. We all have the ability to change, learn and grow. We are not born with skills, throughout our life we gain many coping mechanisms, but some of those are born out of survival, fear or toxic family dynamics and might make it challenging to navigate in relationships or during life’s transitions. For many this leads to experiencing a variety of symptoms. Life can also throw us some big curveballs that feel impossible to adjust to. I believe with assistance anyone can process the past, heal, build coping skills and cultivate a mindset that is needed to create a life that is enjoyable
If you are struggling in your daily life with symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, conflict, grief and loss, stress or PTSD or you’re burnt out at work, We can partner to help you figure out a way to honor your true nature, effectively communicate, gain clarity and the skills you need to thrive in your life.
Reaching out is a big decision. We all have the ability to change, learn and grow. We are not born with skills, throughout our life we gain many coping mechanisms, but some of those are born out of survival, fear or toxic family dynamics and might make it challenging to navigate in relationships or during life’s transitions. For many this leads to experiencing a variety of symptoms. Life can also throw us some big curveballs that feel impossible to adjust to. I believe with assistance anyone can process the past, heal, build coping skills and cultivate a mindset that is needed to create a life that is enjoyable
(425) 578-5814 View (425) 578-5814
Photo of Jessica Wong Life Healing Therapy And Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98020, WA
Jessica Wong Life Healing Therapy And Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
Waitlist for new clients
Please email to join the waitlist. Life can be meaningful even when painful events happen. I believe the path out of suffering is when we pass through our struggles, instead of running away from them. I am honored to be your secure emotional support through your personal and relational struggles. I hold a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and work with a broad spectrum of challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance addiction. I help my clients improve their self-esteem, process grief, and heal from painful events. My clients often find strength, relief, acceptance, and growth from working with me.
Please email to join the waitlist. Life can be meaningful even when painful events happen. I believe the path out of suffering is when we pass through our struggles, instead of running away from them. I am honored to be your secure emotional support through your personal and relational struggles. I hold a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and work with a broad spectrum of challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance addiction. I help my clients improve their self-esteem, process grief, and heal from painful events. My clients often find strength, relief, acceptance, and growth from working with me.
(425) 217-3170 View (425) 217-3170
Photo of Heather Fisher, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98020, WA
Heather Fisher
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MedFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with children, adolescents, adults, individuals, families, couples and typically address concerns related to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief, parenting struggles, caregiver burnout, PTSD, etc.
First and foremost I believe that you are the expert on your life, not me. I will begin with openness about what you are bringing to counseling, respect for you and your family, curiosity about who you are and what you believe, as well as accountability to my power in the room. I emphasize the strengths I see in each individual and system and ask that you try on new perspectives and actions that may help you better reach your goals. I encourage you to draw on experiences from your past in order to help you better understand your current choices, feelings, and relationships.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, individuals, families, couples and typically address concerns related to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief, parenting struggles, caregiver burnout, PTSD, etc.
First and foremost I believe that you are the expert on your life, not me. I will begin with openness about what you are bringing to counseling, respect for you and your family, curiosity about who you are and what you believe, as well as accountability to my power in the room. I emphasize the strengths I see in each individual and system and ask that you try on new perspectives and actions that may help you better reach your goals. I encourage you to draw on experiences from your past in order to help you better understand your current choices, feelings, and relationships.
(425) 651-6552 View (425) 651-6552
Photo of Elaine Willey, Counselor in 98020, WA
Elaine Willey
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
For over 20 years, I've worked with individuals and couples struggling with relationship problems, challenging life transitions like mid-life crises, job stress, grief and loss, and living authentically. I also specialize in depression, anxiety, stress and chronic health issues. You're not alone in your struggle once we begin to work together. I listen deeply to really understand you as we work to transform your issues. I offer sessions in my Edmonds office, by phone, or by video conference.
For over 20 years, I've worked with individuals and couples struggling with relationship problems, challenging life transitions like mid-life crises, job stress, grief and loss, and living authentically. I also specialize in depression, anxiety, stress and chronic health issues. You're not alone in your struggle once we begin to work together. I listen deeply to really understand you as we work to transform your issues. I offer sessions in my Edmonds office, by phone, or by video conference.
(206) 455-7166 View (206) 455-7166
Photo of Andrea Mendoza, Counselor in 98020, WA
Andrea Mendoza
Counselor, LMHC, SUDPT
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients! I specialize in working with adults and teens who are seeking help with trauma, attachment wounds, relationship issues, anxiety, life transitions, grief, depression, and/or addiction. I also work with couples who may be experiencing challenges with communication, mutual understanding, connection, and strengthening their bond.
I am currently accepting new clients! I specialize in working with adults and teens who are seeking help with trauma, attachment wounds, relationship issues, anxiety, life transitions, grief, depression, and/or addiction. I also work with couples who may be experiencing challenges with communication, mutual understanding, connection, and strengthening their bond.
(509) 401-8304 View (509) 401-8304
Photo of Bonnie Walchuk at Dream Big Wellness, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98020, WA
Bonnie Walchuk at Dream Big Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Waitlist for new clients
At Dream Big Wellness we warmly welcome our clients in taking this step to find support and compassionate care. We are a team of licensed and experienced clinicians in WA state & nationally registered art therapists. We specialize in supporting people impacted by cancer, medical illness, chronic illness/pain, trauma, stress, bereavement, grief & loss, adjustment & transition, anxiety & depression. Dream Big Wellness is an Art Therapy & Integrative Wellness 501(c)3 Nonprofit increasing access to mental health care, art therapy, and wellness services through our Pay it Forward Program. www.dreambigwellness.org/pay-it-forward/
At Dream Big Wellness we warmly welcome our clients in taking this step to find support and compassionate care. We are a team of licensed and experienced clinicians in WA state & nationally registered art therapists. We specialize in supporting people impacted by cancer, medical illness, chronic illness/pain, trauma, stress, bereavement, grief & loss, adjustment & transition, anxiety & depression. Dream Big Wellness is an Art Therapy & Integrative Wellness 501(c)3 Nonprofit increasing access to mental health care, art therapy, and wellness services through our Pay it Forward Program. www.dreambigwellness.org/pay-it-forward/
(425) 403-2630 View (425) 403-2630
Photo of Aishleen O'Brien, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in 98020, WA
Aishleen O'Brien
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
I’m passionate about working with young adults, and couples/families who are struggling with trauma/medical trauma, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, and new or difficult diagnoses.
Please note: I'm only accepting new client couples or families at this time. On your journey of self-improvement, I hope to provide you with a safe and empathetic space to be your most authentic self. Both past and present challenges can affect individuals in so many different and powerful ways. Through building a genuine and collaborative therapeutic relationship, I hope to help you explore your life experiences in an environment free from judgement or assumption. While therapy can be challenging, we will work together to unpack internalized burdens and emotions, leading to increased clarity and sense of purpose.
I’m passionate about working with young adults, and couples/families who are struggling with trauma/medical trauma, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, and new or difficult diagnoses.
Please note: I'm only accepting new client couples or families at this time. On your journey of self-improvement, I hope to provide you with a safe and empathetic space to be your most authentic self. Both past and present challenges can affect individuals in so many different and powerful ways. Through building a genuine and collaborative therapeutic relationship, I hope to help you explore your life experiences in an environment free from judgement or assumption. While therapy can be challenging, we will work together to unpack internalized burdens and emotions, leading to increased clarity and sense of purpose.
(206) 672-0817 View (206) 672-0817
Photo of Sharon Aboosaidi, Counselor in 98020, WA
Sharon Aboosaidi
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
I focus on depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, loss, grief, abuse, and legal issues.
Counseling can offer an understanding of the behaviors, beliefs and emotions that fuel our daily interactions with families and other people. Therapy is a process. My job is to facilitate you through possible change options. It is my goal to work with you closely during therapy to aid in clarifying your goals for treatment, explore patterns and choices of communication, relationships, life style and foster development of beneficial coping strategies with commitment on both parts during therapy. The main goal is to explore patterns of behavior, thoughts, and actions to foster positive change and personal growth.
I focus on depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, loss, grief, abuse, and legal issues.
Counseling can offer an understanding of the behaviors, beliefs and emotions that fuel our daily interactions with families and other people. Therapy is a process. My job is to facilitate you through possible change options. It is my goal to work with you closely during therapy to aid in clarifying your goals for treatment, explore patterns and choices of communication, relationships, life style and foster development of beneficial coping strategies with commitment on both parts during therapy. The main goal is to explore patterns of behavior, thoughts, and actions to foster positive change and personal growth.
(206) 745-3402 View (206) 745-3402
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.