Grief Therapists in Birmingham, AL

Photo of Lucinda Armstrong, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lucinda Armstrong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
Some of the areas that I focus on in counseling: abuse (emotional, physical, sexual); adjustment; anger; anxiety; depression; family conflict; parenting; impulse control; self esteem and confidence; domestic violence; divorce/separation; grief and loss.
Are you or your loved ones struggling? Whether it be day-to-day challenges, anxiety, depression, grief or if you are just not sure what you are struggling with, I can help sort your issues out. My goal is to provide a safe, confidential, non-judgmental environment offering tools that allow my clients to manage and reduce stress that can be debilitating.I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults that have been victims of abuse, those who suffer from depression, anxiety, anger management, insecurity and behavioral issues.
Some of the areas that I focus on in counseling: abuse (emotional, physical, sexual); adjustment; anger; anxiety; depression; family conflict; parenting; impulse control; self esteem and confidence; domestic violence; divorce/separation; grief and loss.
Are you or your loved ones struggling? Whether it be day-to-day challenges, anxiety, depression, grief or if you are just not sure what you are struggling with, I can help sort your issues out. My goal is to provide a safe, confidential, non-judgmental environment offering tools that allow my clients to manage and reduce stress that can be debilitating.I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults that have been victims of abuse, those who suffer from depression, anxiety, anger management, insecurity and behavioral issues.
(205) 538-3099 View (205) 538-3099
Photo of Branch Acton, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Branch Acton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35213
I specialize in helping people navigate their grief and the loss they are experiencing, helping to lessen those spiraling anxious thoughts, and assisting people navigate difficult relationship challenges.
Life is full of challenges and sometimes those challenges leave us feeling lost and overwhelmed. Maybe you are experiencing grief and loss and feel stuck. Perhaps you are struggling with depression and anxiety. Maybe your relationships are strained. Therapy is a good opportunity to explore these issues and find a path towards healing and wellness. I consider it an honor to walk alongside clients and assist them with finding their path forward towards healing and wellness.
I specialize in helping people navigate their grief and the loss they are experiencing, helping to lessen those spiraling anxious thoughts, and assisting people navigate difficult relationship challenges.
Life is full of challenges and sometimes those challenges leave us feeling lost and overwhelmed. Maybe you are experiencing grief and loss and feel stuck. Perhaps you are struggling with depression and anxiety. Maybe your relationships are strained. Therapy is a good opportunity to explore these issues and find a path towards healing and wellness. I consider it an honor to walk alongside clients and assist them with finding their path forward towards healing and wellness.
(205) 850-7311 View (205) 850-7311
Photo of Felicity Blunt, MA, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Felicity Blunt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242  (Online Only)
I have special training in trauma counseling, EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, TBRI, and grief therapy.
Would you like to have a more fulfilling life? Do you ever feel alone in your struggles? We all feel like this sometimes and could use some help finding answers. I can develop a unique treatment plan based on the specific goals you would like to accomplish. Please allow me to help you identify ways to bring more balance and peace to your life. Reaching for help is the first brave step toward wholeness. Please call, text, or email today.
I have special training in trauma counseling, EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, TBRI, and grief therapy.
Would you like to have a more fulfilling life? Do you ever feel alone in your struggles? We all feel like this sometimes and could use some help finding answers. I can develop a unique treatment plan based on the specific goals you would like to accomplish. Please allow me to help you identify ways to bring more balance and peace to your life. Reaching for help is the first brave step toward wholeness. Please call, text, or email today.
(205) 660-0511 View (205) 660-0511
Photo of Hilarie Rhea, MEd, ALC, NCC, Counselor
Hilarie Rhea
Counselor, MEd, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
I delight in the opportunity to walk alongside of people as they heal and find life again after suffering, trauma, and loss. I have experience working with people in acute grief, supporting parents post-adoption (domestic and international), and working with men, women and teenagers experiencing a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, PTSD, attachment related difficulties, spiritual disillusionment, and more. I also have training in trauma-focused narrative therapy, a therapeutic modality that robustly supports the healing of those who have experienced abuse.
I delight in the opportunity to walk alongside of people as they heal and find life again after suffering, trauma, and loss. I have experience working with people in acute grief, supporting parents post-adoption (domestic and international), and working with men, women and teenagers experiencing a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, PTSD, attachment related difficulties, spiritual disillusionment, and more. I also have training in trauma-focused narrative therapy, a therapeutic modality that robustly supports the healing of those who have experienced abuse.
(205) 973-4655 View (205) 973-4655
Photo of Shannon S Crenshaw, MEd, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon S Crenshaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
I work with such issues as depression, chronic pain, anxiety, trauma, grief counseling, family disruptions and transitions.
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
I work with such issues as depression, chronic pain, anxiety, trauma, grief counseling, family disruptions and transitions.
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
(205) 583-0367 View (205) 583-0367
Photo of Jo Simmons Self, LPC, NCC, PhD, RN, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jo Simmons Self
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, PhD, RN
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
Professionally, I facilitate a grief support group and personally, I have experienced the loss of my husband and son.
My approach to counseling is client centered because I personally believe that clients have the answers they are seeking. My role as a counselor is to guide them through the process of discovery. I believe that all of us live our lives on a healthy/unhealthy continuum. I support clients in their desire to develop healthy ways of getting their needs met and living on the positive side of the scale. My office provides a completely safe, non-threatening, and non-judgmental environment for clients to verbalize and explore their options.
Professionally, I facilitate a grief support group and personally, I have experienced the loss of my husband and son.
My approach to counseling is client centered because I personally believe that clients have the answers they are seeking. My role as a counselor is to guide them through the process of discovery. I believe that all of us live our lives on a healthy/unhealthy continuum. I support clients in their desire to develop healthy ways of getting their needs met and living on the positive side of the scale. My office provides a completely safe, non-threatening, and non-judgmental environment for clients to verbalize and explore their options.
(205) 596-6467 View (205) 596-6467
Photo of Crystal E. Mullen-Johnson - Strive Counseling Services, L.L.C. , LICSW, PIP, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Strive Counseling Services, L.L.C.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP, RPT
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35203
I specialize in working with adults that have mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, adjustment disorders, grief, stress, and psychosocial stressors.
“Building A Foundation For A Healthier You is paramount at Strive Counseling Services.” I provide the highest quality of therapeutic counseling to children and adults. I utilize evidenced-based approaches to assist clients with identifying their strengths to reach their optimal potential by developing confidence, skills for coping, and problem solving. I look forward to working with you to identify the best treatment modality to address your mental health needs. When you are ready to schedule your initial session please be prepared to provide your insurance information. “Let’s Strive Together!"
I specialize in working with adults that have mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, adjustment disorders, grief, stress, and psychosocial stressors.
“Building A Foundation For A Healthier You is paramount at Strive Counseling Services.” I provide the highest quality of therapeutic counseling to children and adults. I utilize evidenced-based approaches to assist clients with identifying their strengths to reach their optimal potential by developing confidence, skills for coping, and problem solving. I look forward to working with you to identify the best treatment modality to address your mental health needs. When you are ready to schedule your initial session please be prepared to provide your insurance information. “Let’s Strive Together!"
(205) 512-3242 View (205) 512-3242
Photo of Todd D Gothard, MDiv, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Todd D Gothard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35216
My experience includes, but is not limited to, addiction (or unhealthy behaviors that we want to address), trauma issues, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression.
Many of us have assumed the labels others have placed upon us. I do not believe these labels can fully explain who we are or what we are experiencing. I believe through presence and compassionate curiosity we can become more mindful of ourselves and begin to experience the safety and connection we long to know. My goal is to serve as a compassionate fellow traveller, working through the obstacles that we face in life. My hope is that you will be able to remove the labels and the masks and work toward becoming the healthiest version of yourself.
My experience includes, but is not limited to, addiction (or unhealthy behaviors that we want to address), trauma issues, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression.
Many of us have assumed the labels others have placed upon us. I do not believe these labels can fully explain who we are or what we are experiencing. I believe through presence and compassionate curiosity we can become more mindful of ourselves and begin to experience the safety and connection we long to know. My goal is to serve as a compassionate fellow traveller, working through the obstacles that we face in life. My hope is that you will be able to remove the labels and the masks and work toward becoming the healthiest version of yourself.
(205) 675-0372 View (205) 675-0372
Photo of Tyana D Alexander, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tyana D Alexander
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience in dealing with depressive symptoms, grief, eating disorders and relationship issues.
Make a choice.....create a change. I enjoy working with adults, couples and families with a variety of concerns. Depression, grief and compulsive behaviors can impact our relationships with others. I will spend time with you, increasing your awareness about unhealthy behaviors and to help identify new, more beneficial behaviors to improve your relationships. I have a special interest in working with clients who wish to explore forgiveness as a means to improve their connections with others.
I have experience in dealing with depressive symptoms, grief, eating disorders and relationship issues.
Make a choice.....create a change. I enjoy working with adults, couples and families with a variety of concerns. Depression, grief and compulsive behaviors can impact our relationships with others. I will spend time with you, increasing your awareness about unhealthy behaviors and to help identify new, more beneficial behaviors to improve your relationships. I have a special interest in working with clients who wish to explore forgiveness as a means to improve their connections with others.
(205) 319-7016 View (205) 319-7016
Photo of Reggie Ardale Parker Sr. - Parker Counseling and Consulting, LLC, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Parker Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242
I provide support for grief, loss, and recovery from traumatic events.
Most of us suffer adversity during our lifespan! I work with clients suffering from life challenges such as anxiety, depression, divorce, job loss, grief, or low self-esteem. If you are suffering from any of these challenges, maybe it is time to take a different approach. If your current coping skills are not working, now is the time to request some assistance.
I provide support for grief, loss, and recovery from traumatic events.
Most of us suffer adversity during our lifespan! I work with clients suffering from life challenges such as anxiety, depression, divorce, job loss, grief, or low self-esteem. If you are suffering from any of these challenges, maybe it is time to take a different approach. If your current coping skills are not working, now is the time to request some assistance.
(205) 379-6290 View (205) 379-6290
Photo of Destinee Miskel, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Destinee Miskel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
I assist clients who are working through trauma, loss, difficult memories, and low self-worth.
How did I get here? At first you missed a couple of days of work, then you stopped showering, and now you don’t hang out with people you used to enjoy. Life hits hard whether it’s intrusive memories, the loss of a loved one, or a struggle with your own sense of self-worth. Sometimes it’s hard to even pinpoint why you feel the way you feel, you just can’t seem to move past it. If you’re sick of crawling back under the covers to hide from the world, or making endless excuses to avoid people, reach out.
I assist clients who are working through trauma, loss, difficult memories, and low self-worth.
How did I get here? At first you missed a couple of days of work, then you stopped showering, and now you don’t hang out with people you used to enjoy. Life hits hard whether it’s intrusive memories, the loss of a loved one, or a struggle with your own sense of self-worth. Sometimes it’s hard to even pinpoint why you feel the way you feel, you just can’t seem to move past it. If you’re sick of crawling back under the covers to hide from the world, or making endless excuses to avoid people, reach out.
(205) 654-7186 View (205) 654-7186
Photo of Ashley Gilbert, MEd, MFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Gilbert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209
Topics with which I have worked include but are not limited to physical, medical and emotional trauma, relationship complications, family dynamics, high risk behaviors, depression, anxiety, grief, transition, blended families.
Telling your story takes tremendous courage. In my work I am constantly humbled and honored to receive those stories. As a therapist I work from the premise that people are deeply complex and multilayered beings. Our past, our present, and expectations of our future dictate how we navigate life's inevitable challenges. Because our lives are a constant state of transition, we have the opportunity to learn from the past and navigate our present through awareness and understanding of ourselves, and others. I feel it a great honor to support people in their transitions, and foster their awareness and growth.
Topics with which I have worked include but are not limited to physical, medical and emotional trauma, relationship complications, family dynamics, high risk behaviors, depression, anxiety, grief, transition, blended families.
Telling your story takes tremendous courage. In my work I am constantly humbled and honored to receive those stories. As a therapist I work from the premise that people are deeply complex and multilayered beings. Our past, our present, and expectations of our future dictate how we navigate life's inevitable challenges. Because our lives are a constant state of transition, we have the opportunity to learn from the past and navigate our present through awareness and understanding of ourselves, and others. I feel it a great honor to support people in their transitions, and foster their awareness and growth.
(205) 419-0039 View (205) 419-0039
Photo of Joseph Knox, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joseph Knox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35244
I have assisted clients in confronting fear, processing trauma and navigating grief, while working to develop healthy, practical methods of managing stress and coping with symptoms that interfere with life.
Anxiety, depression, grief... we all experience these emotions at some point. But what if they become overwhelming? What if anxiety turns into paralyzing fear, panic attacks, racing thoughts, inability to sleep, do your job, or have a social life? Depression can lead to low motivation, lack of purpose, excessive sleep, or even suicidal thoughts. Grief can rob you of joy, pleasure, and zest for life. These issues and others (stress, job loss, divorce/relationship issues, health issues, etc.) may make life seem unbearable or unmanageable. But it doesn’t have to be. I believe there is hope and a path to healing for you.
I have assisted clients in confronting fear, processing trauma and navigating grief, while working to develop healthy, practical methods of managing stress and coping with symptoms that interfere with life.
Anxiety, depression, grief... we all experience these emotions at some point. But what if they become overwhelming? What if anxiety turns into paralyzing fear, panic attacks, racing thoughts, inability to sleep, do your job, or have a social life? Depression can lead to low motivation, lack of purpose, excessive sleep, or even suicidal thoughts. Grief can rob you of joy, pleasure, and zest for life. These issues and others (stress, job loss, divorce/relationship issues, health issues, etc.) may make life seem unbearable or unmanageable. But it doesn’t have to be. I believe there is hope and a path to healing for you.
(844) 816-2579 View (844) 816-2579
Photo of Arlee Peres Pugh - ACTS Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
ACTS Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35213
Relationships can be messy. Times can be confusing. In every life, it gets dark, lonely or just plain TOO overwhelming. You don't have to go at it alone. I have spent many years working with individuals, including adolescents and adults, couples and families. My areas of expertise include marital crises/infidelity, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, negative thinking and low self-esteem. I can help you, and you can feel hope again.
Relationships can be messy. Times can be confusing. In every life, it gets dark, lonely or just plain TOO overwhelming. You don't have to go at it alone. I have spent many years working with individuals, including adolescents and adults, couples and families. My areas of expertise include marital crises/infidelity, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, negative thinking and low self-esteem. I can help you, and you can feel hope again.
(205) 535-1087 View (205) 535-1087
Photo of Rhonda S. Smith, MA, ALC, Counselor
Rhonda S. Smith
Counselor, MA, ALC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35216
I have experience working with children and adults facing life transitions, trauma, depression, autism, grief and behavioral issues.
I believe in honesty, positive self-regard, and above all, genuineness The counseling room is a safe space to process your emotions and experiences. Life can be challenging as we adapt to the negative experiences beyond our control. Children are confronted with new obstacles hindering their personal growth and wellbeing. Parents relate to their child's experience and may feel helpless with the new dynamic they find themselves in. As a counselor, I would like to work with your child towards increasing self-awareness, coping skills and instilling hope as they navigate through life.
I have experience working with children and adults facing life transitions, trauma, depression, autism, grief and behavioral issues.
I believe in honesty, positive self-regard, and above all, genuineness The counseling room is a safe space to process your emotions and experiences. Life can be challenging as we adapt to the negative experiences beyond our control. Children are confronted with new obstacles hindering their personal growth and wellbeing. Parents relate to their child's experience and may feel helpless with the new dynamic they find themselves in. As a counselor, I would like to work with your child towards increasing self-awareness, coping skills and instilling hope as they navigate through life.
(205) 890-4191 View (205) 890-4191
Photo of Linda Ellis, MA, LPC, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda Ellis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35233  (Online Only)
"Gather up all your scattered dreams and build the life you love" Unknown. When life circumstances such as trauma or loss leave you feeling sad, anxious, depressed, lonely, overwhelmed, discouraged or perhaps turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms our inner resources, relationships and our relationship with our Self can suffer. A courageous step is to seek help and whether you are 18 or 80+, I will work with you to help you find your inner strengths and coping skills.
"Gather up all your scattered dreams and build the life you love" Unknown. When life circumstances such as trauma or loss leave you feeling sad, anxious, depressed, lonely, overwhelmed, discouraged or perhaps turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms our inner resources, relationships and our relationship with our Self can suffer. A courageous step is to seek help and whether you are 18 or 80+, I will work with you to help you find your inner strengths and coping skills.
(205) 708-3345 View (205) 708-3345
Photo of Jacques L. Austin - J L Austin Counseling & Consulting, MA, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
J L Austin Counseling & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
Grief, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Anger Management, Addiction, Substance Abuse, Divorce, Domestic Violence, Self Esteem, and PTSD. Since 1997 I have worked with individuals, couples, families, groups, adults, and adolescents in gaining self awareness, peace, balance, and purpose in their life's journey.
Grief, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Anger Management, Addiction, Substance Abuse, Divorce, Domestic Violence, Self Esteem, and PTSD. Since 1997 I have worked with individuals, couples, families, groups, adults, and adolescents in gaining self awareness, peace, balance, and purpose in their life's journey.
(205) 677-0563 View (205) 677-0563
Photo of Erica Taylor, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35203
Greetings! I am a licensed clinical social worker with more than a year of experience. I've always been interested in helping those in need. I have experience in working with variety of individuals and specialize in treating those with a history of traumatic experiences, loss and grief, and mood issues. I use an empowering and collaborative approach - you are the expert in you and I'm here to offer support along your journey in life. Using evidenced based techniques, I will guide you to achieve your goals. This is your journey, let's get you to your desired destination.
Greetings! I am a licensed clinical social worker with more than a year of experience. I've always been interested in helping those in need. I have experience in working with variety of individuals and specialize in treating those with a history of traumatic experiences, loss and grief, and mood issues. I use an empowering and collaborative approach - you are the expert in you and I'm here to offer support along your journey in life. Using evidenced based techniques, I will guide you to achieve your goals. This is your journey, let's get you to your desired destination.
(205) 947-4135 View (205) 947-4135
Photo of Kenya Wilcox, LMSW
Kenya Wilcox
LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, grief, personality disorders, and substance dependency.
I am accepting new clients for evening and Saturday sessions! I genuinely believe that life is a roller coaster. In today's world, “life will life you,” and it is up to me to assist you when that happens. In a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential environment, you are the expert, and I am here to assist the expert in reaching their goal. In our therapeutic partnership, we will identify issues, triggers, strengths, and barriers. We will also formulate strategies that will allow you to push through obstacles and reach milestones. “Life be life-ing” sometimes; However, I am here to support and assist!
I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, grief, personality disorders, and substance dependency.
I am accepting new clients for evening and Saturday sessions! I genuinely believe that life is a roller coaster. In today's world, “life will life you,” and it is up to me to assist you when that happens. In a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential environment, you are the expert, and I am here to assist the expert in reaching their goal. In our therapeutic partnership, we will identify issues, triggers, strengths, and barriers. We will also formulate strategies that will allow you to push through obstacles and reach milestones. “Life be life-ing” sometimes; However, I am here to support and assist!
(334) 249-3815 View (334) 249-3815
Photo of Margie Slaughter, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Margie Slaughter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35243
I specialize in relationships; grief; chronic illness and injury; anxiety; depression; religious, medical and childhood trauma; and generally helping people better process and put into context their life experiences.
Everyone needs someone to talk to, someone who will really listen. When you find yourself at one of life's crossroads wondering which way to turn, it helps to have a safe place to talk and a safe person to hear you out. You will find that place here, along with an objective, non-judgmental, professional perspective that the most well-meaning friends and family may not provide. Together we can explore your options, choices, questions, hurts, and strengths in ways you might not have previously considered so that you can continue working through your wounds rather than living them out. Being seen, heard, and understood is healing.
I specialize in relationships; grief; chronic illness and injury; anxiety; depression; religious, medical and childhood trauma; and generally helping people better process and put into context their life experiences.
Everyone needs someone to talk to, someone who will really listen. When you find yourself at one of life's crossroads wondering which way to turn, it helps to have a safe place to talk and a safe person to hear you out. You will find that place here, along with an objective, non-judgmental, professional perspective that the most well-meaning friends and family may not provide. Together we can explore your options, choices, questions, hurts, and strengths in ways you might not have previously considered so that you can continue working through your wounds rather than living them out. Being seen, heard, and understood is healing.
(205) 535-1123 View (205) 535-1123
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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.