Photo of Kailee Bauman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Kailee Bauman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Kailee has experience working with survivors of abuse, grief/bereavement, anxiety, and depression.
Being a safe place to process feelings is a vital role that we can play in each other's lives. In a world where emotions often go unacknowledged or even dismissed, offering a safe space for someone to express and explore their feelings can be a transformative experience. It requires genuine empathy, active listening, and a nonjudgmental attitude. Creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their innermost thoughts and emotions can cultivate healing, growth, and resilience. Kailee’s goal is to cultivate this space of safety, nonjudgement, growth, healing, self-acceptance, and above all, hope.
Kailee has experience working with survivors of abuse, grief/bereavement, anxiety, and depression.
Being a safe place to process feelings is a vital role that we can play in each other's lives. In a world where emotions often go unacknowledged or even dismissed, offering a safe space for someone to express and explore their feelings can be a transformative experience. It requires genuine empathy, active listening, and a nonjudgmental attitude. Creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their innermost thoughts and emotions can cultivate healing, growth, and resilience. Kailee’s goal is to cultivate this space of safety, nonjudgement, growth, healing, self-acceptance, and above all, hope.
(479) 323-3146 View (479) 323-3146
Photo of Brandy Cunningham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Brandy Cunningham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72903
My current focus is working with adults and older adults who are working through the grief process, whether they are overwhelmed with a loved one's death or illness, a loss of a relationship, struggling with depression/anxiety or any other diagnosis.
Counseling/Therapy is a great way to safely explore your thoughts, feelings, and life dynamics to help you become the healthiest you! Life and mental health struggles are real and can leave you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, defeated, tired, insecure, among many other icky feelings. Without processing and seeking treatment in a healthy way, symptoms can exacerbate into something insurmountable. Treat yourself to finding a healthy balance and fulfilment in your life...you DESERVE your best self!
My current focus is working with adults and older adults who are working through the grief process, whether they are overwhelmed with a loved one's death or illness, a loss of a relationship, struggling with depression/anxiety or any other diagnosis.
Counseling/Therapy is a great way to safely explore your thoughts, feelings, and life dynamics to help you become the healthiest you! Life and mental health struggles are real and can leave you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, defeated, tired, insecure, among many other icky feelings. Without processing and seeking treatment in a healthy way, symptoms can exacerbate into something insurmountable. Treat yourself to finding a healthy balance and fulfilment in your life...you DESERVE your best self!
(479) 239-9273 View (479) 239-9273
Photo of Brook Mattison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Brook Mattison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Brook is experienced in providing therapy services to a variety of individuals, including children, adolescents, and adults. She has worked in individual therapy, transitional living, incarcerations, school-based therapy, and hospice. Brook's professional work addresses the individual needs of those experiencing symptoms related to depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, suicidal ideation, and recent life-threatening or terminal illness diagnosis.
Brook is experienced in providing therapy services to a variety of individuals, including children, adolescents, and adults. She has worked in individual therapy, transitional living, incarcerations, school-based therapy, and hospice. Brook's professional work addresses the individual needs of those experiencing symptoms related to depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, suicidal ideation, and recent life-threatening or terminal illness diagnosis.
(479) 349-3480 View (479) 349-3480
Photo of Hilary Childers in Arkansas
Hilary Childers
MS, LPE-I
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211
I have provided services to individuals experiencing challenges such as anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, grief, and behavior problems.
Children’s mental health is an essential part of their overall health. My passion lies in providing effective care to children, adolescents, and families in order to help them live happier and healtiery lives. I have provided mental health services since 2006, which have included individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, crisis intervention, behavior management, parenting skills training, intensive family services, consultation, and psychological assessment. I am certified in Trauma Focused CBT. I also use a variety of other techniques to help (CBT, solution-focused, person-centered, and therapeutic play).
I have provided services to individuals experiencing challenges such as anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, grief, and behavior problems.
Children’s mental health is an essential part of their overall health. My passion lies in providing effective care to children, adolescents, and families in order to help them live happier and healtiery lives. I have provided mental health services since 2006, which have included individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, crisis intervention, behavior management, parenting skills training, intensive family services, consultation, and psychological assessment. I am certified in Trauma Focused CBT. I also use a variety of other techniques to help (CBT, solution-focused, person-centered, and therapeutic play).
(501) 292-2932 View (501) 292-2932
Photo of Pamela R Ramsfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Pamela R Ramsfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72703
Do you, a child, or adolescent that you know start your day already stressed wondering what the day will bring or wishing things could be better. I've been there, many people have been there: struggling or attempting to cope and adjust to various of life’s stressors: trauma, loss and grief, anxiety, depression, or behavioral problems. The exciting part is that you, the child, and adolescent that you know all have the tools and wisdom within to make the shift toward a better tomorrow. People sometimes need assistance, support, guidance, and a bit more strength and courage to tap into this inner wisdom
Do you, a child, or adolescent that you know start your day already stressed wondering what the day will bring or wishing things could be better. I've been there, many people have been there: struggling or attempting to cope and adjust to various of life’s stressors: trauma, loss and grief, anxiety, depression, or behavioral problems. The exciting part is that you, the child, and adolescent that you know all have the tools and wisdom within to make the shift toward a better tomorrow. People sometimes need assistance, support, guidance, and a bit more strength and courage to tap into this inner wisdom
(479) 446-6567 View (479) 446-6567
Photo of Lourene P Thaxton-Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Lourene P Thaxton-Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Perspective changes over time through therapy, but no one can speed the process of grief, whether from death, illness, divorce, depression, job loss, or even the demise of a beloved pet.
I specialize in treating grief and trauma, using EMDR in matters of unresolved disturbance. Whether someone suffers physical pain, anxiety, or the inability to sleep due to nightmares or disruptive memories, eye movement desensitization reprocessing can help alleviate the trauma of PTSD to help put the pieces of one’s life together following a disturbing event. Trauma takes many different forms as does healing, and healing disturbance is as individual as the individual him/herself. The best part of working with clients is helping to restore joy and insight to the client’s vision for life.
Perspective changes over time through therapy, but no one can speed the process of grief, whether from death, illness, divorce, depression, job loss, or even the demise of a beloved pet.
I specialize in treating grief and trauma, using EMDR in matters of unresolved disturbance. Whether someone suffers physical pain, anxiety, or the inability to sleep due to nightmares or disruptive memories, eye movement desensitization reprocessing can help alleviate the trauma of PTSD to help put the pieces of one’s life together following a disturbing event. Trauma takes many different forms as does healing, and healing disturbance is as individual as the individual him/herself. The best part of working with clients is helping to restore joy and insight to the client’s vision for life.
(501) 365-2623 View (501) 365-2623
Photo of Shawnda Wear, Counselor in Arkansas
Shawnda Wear
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72903
Life can leave us feeling confused, overwhelmed, disconnected, and full of emotions that we may not understand. You may find yourself struggling with trauma, acceptance, anxiety, depression, worry, fear, grief, and/or shame. You may remember a time things didn't feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to learn ways to diminish unwanted feelings and symptoms. You're ready to face your problems and work through them. Most of all, you're ready to improve your quality of life and live beyond your struggles and worries.
Life can leave us feeling confused, overwhelmed, disconnected, and full of emotions that we may not understand. You may find yourself struggling with trauma, acceptance, anxiety, depression, worry, fear, grief, and/or shame. You may remember a time things didn't feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to learn ways to diminish unwanted feelings and symptoms. You're ready to face your problems and work through them. Most of all, you're ready to improve your quality of life and live beyond your struggles and worries.
(479) 323-2519 View (479) 323-2519
Photo of Tammy Forcke (Pearson), Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Tammy Forcke (Pearson)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72703
Waitlist for new clients
Today, more than ever, we all face changes and challenges on a daily basis. Coping with life stressors, healing from trauma, processing grief & loss, and learning to accept & embrace our unique selves are among the many topics I often address with clients.
Today, more than ever, we all face changes and challenges on a daily basis. Coping with life stressors, healing from trauma, processing grief & loss, and learning to accept & embrace our unique selves are among the many topics I often address with clients.
(479) 282-3071 View (479) 282-3071
Photo of Jennifer Gray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Jennifer Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Farmington, AR 72730
Jennifer enjoys working with clients of diverse backgrounds and has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, groups and families reporting anxiety, depression, grief and loss, illness/injury, addiction, abuse and neglect, sexual assault, domestic violence, incarceration, and other troubling life circumstances.
Have you been looking for a therapist who is highly knowledgable, compassionate, and light-hearted? Have you been looking for a therapist who believes that the therapist and client unit are a TEAM? Jennifer believes therapy can be a fun and rewarding process for people from all walks of life and she hopes you will allow her to be a partner on your journey. She offers a judgement-free and down-to-earth atmosphere in which clients are celebrated for their strengths and recognized for their courage.
Jennifer enjoys working with clients of diverse backgrounds and has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, groups and families reporting anxiety, depression, grief and loss, illness/injury, addiction, abuse and neglect, sexual assault, domestic violence, incarceration, and other troubling life circumstances.
Have you been looking for a therapist who is highly knowledgable, compassionate, and light-hearted? Have you been looking for a therapist who believes that the therapist and client unit are a TEAM? Jennifer believes therapy can be a fun and rewarding process for people from all walks of life and she hopes you will allow her to be a partner on your journey. She offers a judgement-free and down-to-earth atmosphere in which clients are celebrated for their strengths and recognized for their courage.
Photo of Kimberly Sutterfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Kimberly Sutterfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Farmington, AR 72730  (Online Only)
Kimberly’s passion is working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustments, sexual orientation, grief, and family dysfunction.
Kimberly is telehealth only. Sometimes one of the hardest obstacles in reaching your goals is knowing where to begin. You are completing the first step now by searching for the right therapist for YOU! Whether it’s depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or a combination of several struggles you’re facing, Kimberly is here to guide you through the journey of healing and working toward the best version of yourself.
Kimberly’s passion is working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustments, sexual orientation, grief, and family dysfunction.
Kimberly is telehealth only. Sometimes one of the hardest obstacles in reaching your goals is knowing where to begin. You are completing the first step now by searching for the right therapist for YOU! Whether it’s depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or a combination of several struggles you’re facing, Kimberly is here to guide you through the journey of healing and working toward the best version of yourself.
(479) 437-9170 View (479) 437-9170
Photo of Therapy But Different, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Therapy But Different
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72227  (Online Only)
I am Dr. Datonna Higgins and I am so glad you are here! I learned long ago that time does not heal us in and of itself, but rather it's what we do with that time that makes all of the difference. Whether navigating a difficult life transition, loss, relationship struggles, or trying to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, or addiction...now will always be the perfect time to start or continue on your journey to healing. Quality and personable mental health treatment should be easily accessible to all, which is why I strive to provide virtual counseling with an in-person feel. Distance counseling should not feel distant!
I am Dr. Datonna Higgins and I am so glad you are here! I learned long ago that time does not heal us in and of itself, but rather it's what we do with that time that makes all of the difference. Whether navigating a difficult life transition, loss, relationship struggles, or trying to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, or addiction...now will always be the perfect time to start or continue on your journey to healing. Quality and personable mental health treatment should be easily accessible to all, which is why I strive to provide virtual counseling with an in-person feel. Distance counseling should not feel distant!
(539) 995-4464 View (539) 995-4464
Photo of Jason LeCompte, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Jason LeCompte
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a proud founding member of the Bentonville Counseling Collective, a one-of-a-kind counseling practice in NWA. We are individual counselors working together to provide excellent, affordable, and tailored therapy for a vast array of clients. For the past several years we have worked with individuals, couples, and families on many different issues including depression, anxiety, infidelity, trauma, grief, LGBTQ issues, and many others. Whatever the challenge, the Bentonville Counseling Collective can help you overcome it, and help you be happier and more fulfilled in your life.
I'm a proud founding member of the Bentonville Counseling Collective, a one-of-a-kind counseling practice in NWA. We are individual counselors working together to provide excellent, affordable, and tailored therapy for a vast array of clients. For the past several years we have worked with individuals, couples, and families on many different issues including depression, anxiety, infidelity, trauma, grief, LGBTQ issues, and many others. Whatever the challenge, the Bentonville Counseling Collective can help you overcome it, and help you be happier and more fulfilled in your life.
(479) 431-2362 View (479) 431-2362
Photo of Heather Bryan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Heather Bryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, AR 72401
Has your life as you've known it been shattered, leaving you feeling lonely, broken and at a loss of how to put the pieces back together? Maybe you're consumed with feelings of depression, anxiety, and self doubt, just struggling to keep up with the daily grind. Perhaps you have unresolved trauma that is interfering with your ability to enjoy life in the present. Regardless of what has brought you to this point, you are exhausted from trying to manage it on your own.
Has your life as you've known it been shattered, leaving you feeling lonely, broken and at a loss of how to put the pieces back together? Maybe you're consumed with feelings of depression, anxiety, and self doubt, just struggling to keep up with the daily grind. Perhaps you have unresolved trauma that is interfering with your ability to enjoy life in the present. Regardless of what has brought you to this point, you are exhausted from trying to manage it on your own.
(870) 606-8673 View (870) 606-8673
Photo of Beverly Bejarano/Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Beverly Bejarano/Licensed Professional Counselor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, RN, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72205
Are you experiencing a high level of anxiety or stress? Or, are you going through a difficult period in life, such as relationship conflict or loss, a health status change, or multiple stressors piling up all at once? Trained in two helping professions, I can provide you with compassionate, knowledgeable care and actionable plans that will help you to resolve anxiety and stress and get back to enjoying life again. Whether you need to make a change, or to prevail over a change life has forced upon you, my experience and knowledge will help you to navigate difficult times and to reclaim your life.
Are you experiencing a high level of anxiety or stress? Or, are you going through a difficult period in life, such as relationship conflict or loss, a health status change, or multiple stressors piling up all at once? Trained in two helping professions, I can provide you with compassionate, knowledgeable care and actionable plans that will help you to resolve anxiety and stress and get back to enjoying life again. Whether you need to make a change, or to prevail over a change life has forced upon you, my experience and knowledge will help you to navigate difficult times and to reclaim your life.
(870) 501-5032 View (870) 501-5032
Photo of George Zappalorta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
George Zappalorta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I use REBT, CBT, ACT therapy , Motivational interviewing , Solution Based Therapy, EMDR, Behavior Activation and Grief Therapy and do couples counseling and individual therapy Emotionally Focus Therapy.
I am a clinical social worker who works with people from ages 14 to Geriatric age. My client base are people who have occupational , substance abuse, mental health, family, and legal issues. The following disorders I work with are personality disorders, Schizophrenia spectrum, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, mood disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury and Intellectual Disabilities, that range from borderline intellectual to moderate intellectual disability. I am also a certified gambling addictions counselor and Certified addictions Counselor.
I use REBT, CBT, ACT therapy , Motivational interviewing , Solution Based Therapy, EMDR, Behavior Activation and Grief Therapy and do couples counseling and individual therapy Emotionally Focus Therapy.
I am a clinical social worker who works with people from ages 14 to Geriatric age. My client base are people who have occupational , substance abuse, mental health, family, and legal issues. The following disorders I work with are personality disorders, Schizophrenia spectrum, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, mood disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury and Intellectual Disabilities, that range from borderline intellectual to moderate intellectual disability. I am also a certified gambling addictions counselor and Certified addictions Counselor.
(501) 361-3845 View (501) 361-3845
Photo of Derek L Spiegel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Derek L Spiegel
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, AR 72401
Specialty areas include anxiety ,depression, grief/loss, behavioral problems, addictions/compulsions, day to day life problems, stress, career/life transitions, personal belief systems and faith/spiritual dilemmas.
Hello my name is Derek Spiegel and I have been practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor [LPC] in the field for over 20 years. Life is full of endless possibilities for each one of us. Coupled with the possibilities there are "things" that happen in our journey that we are not ready for. My Great Grandmother Rosie was one of the most influential people in my life. When she passed I didn't want to face the sadness. However I found restoration and healing in the storm of my life. Let me help you find shelter from the storms of your life.
Specialty areas include anxiety ,depression, grief/loss, behavioral problems, addictions/compulsions, day to day life problems, stress, career/life transitions, personal belief systems and faith/spiritual dilemmas.
Hello my name is Derek Spiegel and I have been practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor [LPC] in the field for over 20 years. Life is full of endless possibilities for each one of us. Coupled with the possibilities there are "things" that happen in our journey that we are not ready for. My Great Grandmother Rosie was one of the most influential people in my life. When she passed I didn't want to face the sadness. However I found restoration and healing in the storm of my life. Let me help you find shelter from the storms of your life.
(870) 667-0815 View (870) 667-0815
Photo of Michelle Merriott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Michelle Merriott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
I enjoy working with individuals that struggle with substance use issues, trauma, depression disorders, anxiety disorders, grief and loss.
At Merriott Counseling Services, PLLC., my hope is for you to feel listened to/validated and, free to share your thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive atmosphere. I aspire to help you realize you are not alone and change is possible. I genuinely care for my clients and desire to aid them in finding and developing the tools to help them thrive in life. I know it is hard to reach out for help, however it will be one of the best decisions you have ever made for yourself. At least try 1 session to begin the journey in giving yourself back to you and your loved ones.
I enjoy working with individuals that struggle with substance use issues, trauma, depression disorders, anxiety disorders, grief and loss.
At Merriott Counseling Services, PLLC., my hope is for you to feel listened to/validated and, free to share your thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive atmosphere. I aspire to help you realize you are not alone and change is possible. I genuinely care for my clients and desire to aid them in finding and developing the tools to help them thrive in life. I know it is hard to reach out for help, however it will be one of the best decisions you have ever made for yourself. At least try 1 session to begin the journey in giving yourself back to you and your loved ones.
(501) 391-1374 View (501) 391-1374
Photo of Erika Aucoin, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Erika Aucoin, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Ida, AR 71957
I am Licensed Professional Counselor whose professional and personal experiences have lead me down the path to helping clients of all ages with life's daily struggles. I provide individual and family counseling for children, teens, and adults for a wide range of mental health disorders such as, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, PTSD/Trauma, anger management, sexual abuse, self-harm, parenting Skills, grief, and ADHD.
I am Licensed Professional Counselor whose professional and personal experiences have lead me down the path to helping clients of all ages with life's daily struggles. I provide individual and family counseling for children, teens, and adults for a wide range of mental health disorders such as, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, PTSD/Trauma, anger management, sexual abuse, self-harm, parenting Skills, grief, and ADHD.
(870) 601-1684 View (870) 601-1684
Photo of Carla E Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Carla E Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72701
I work with adults who are challenged with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief, life transitions, personal growth, relationship issues, family conflict, and parenting.
The COVID-19 Virus has changed the way many of us go about our daily lives. For social distancing purposes, I am offering sessions via Skype or FaceTime in addition to very limited office sessions. From time to time, we all search for solutions, possibilities, and peace of mind. Whatever your therapy needs are, it is my goal to assist you in reaching your goals. I work with adults over the age of 18, individuals, couples, and families. My multi-faceted approach has helped provide insight, support and new strategies for all types of life challenges.
I work with adults who are challenged with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief, life transitions, personal growth, relationship issues, family conflict, and parenting.
The COVID-19 Virus has changed the way many of us go about our daily lives. For social distancing purposes, I am offering sessions via Skype or FaceTime in addition to very limited office sessions. From time to time, we all search for solutions, possibilities, and peace of mind. Whatever your therapy needs are, it is my goal to assist you in reaching your goals. I work with adults over the age of 18, individuals, couples, and families. My multi-faceted approach has helped provide insight, support and new strategies for all types of life challenges.
(479) 310-7804 View (479) 310-7804
Photo of Charis Parker, Counselor in Arkansas
Charis Parker
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Neurodiversity is more common than you might think. Roughly 15-20% of the world's population experiences neruodivergence; however, there is still not enough support for neurodivergent individuals. Charis is passionate about helping clients with neurodiversity such as ADHD, OCD, sensory needs, and various learning disorders. In addition, she has experience working with clients with anxiety, trauma, sleep disturbances, depression, grief and loss, relational concerns and behavioral issues. Charis enjoys working with adolescents, teens and adults and is trained in EMDR, TheraPlay, DBT, and TF-CBT.
Neurodiversity is more common than you might think. Roughly 15-20% of the world's population experiences neruodivergence; however, there is still not enough support for neurodivergent individuals. Charis is passionate about helping clients with neurodiversity such as ADHD, OCD, sensory needs, and various learning disorders. In addition, she has experience working with clients with anxiety, trauma, sleep disturbances, depression, grief and loss, relational concerns and behavioral issues. Charis enjoys working with adolescents, teens and adults and is trained in EMDR, TheraPlay, DBT, and TF-CBT.
(479) 349-4816 View (479) 349-4816
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.