Photo of Hailey Palmer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Hailey Palmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712  (Online Only)
I believe every person has the capacity to heal and to live a connected, vibrant life. When faced with anxiety, depression, and pain, we sometimes cope by developing habits and re-living patterns that hold us back. Whether you are experiencing unfulfilling relationships, grief, panic, or numbness, we can work together to get to know your story and illuminate the path forward.
I believe every person has the capacity to heal and to live a connected, vibrant life. When faced with anxiety, depression, and pain, we sometimes cope by developing habits and re-living patterns that hold us back. Whether you are experiencing unfulfilling relationships, grief, panic, or numbness, we can work together to get to know your story and illuminate the path forward.
(847) 696-8072 View (847) 696-8072
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 Dr. Melia Snyder, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Dr. Melia Snyder
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, REAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rogers, AR 72758
Winter and holidays are upon us, a challenging time for many. Are you successful in all the ways the world values but struggling to find love and peace internally? Do you sacrifice yourself and neglect your own needs? Do you have a quiet knowing that some vital part of you is drying up? My clients are sensitive, feeling, intuitive adults interested in doing their ‘inner work.' Distress wears many faces (eg., anxiety, grief, trauma, anger, depression, relationship problems) and tries to relieve itself in many ways (eg., substance use, work, caretaking others). I guide my clients on the worthy quest of coming back to themselves.
Winter and holidays are upon us, a challenging time for many. Are you successful in all the ways the world values but struggling to find love and peace internally? Do you sacrifice yourself and neglect your own needs? Do you have a quiet knowing that some vital part of you is drying up? My clients are sensitive, feeling, intuitive adults interested in doing their ‘inner work.' Distress wears many faces (eg., anxiety, grief, trauma, anger, depression, relationship problems) and tries to relieve itself in many ways (eg., substance use, work, caretaking others). I guide my clients on the worthy quest of coming back to themselves.
(479) 348-4779 View (479) 348-4779
Photo of Kathy Lynne Reynolds, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Kathy Lynne Reynolds
Licensed Professional Counselor, BA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Rogers, AR 72758
I attended Harding University and graduated with my B.A. in Psychology and my M.S. in Counseling. I have 24 years of experience in the mental health field. I primarily treat adults who are suffering from depression, anxiety, trama, PTSD, relationship issues, grief, bipolar disorder, and personality disorder. I believe that every client I treat deserves respect and has the ability to empower themselves to meet their individual life goals. I love what I do and I appreciate every client who walks through my door. I have a specialization in grief therapy and trauma.
I attended Harding University and graduated with my B.A. in Psychology and my M.S. in Counseling. I have 24 years of experience in the mental health field. I primarily treat adults who are suffering from depression, anxiety, trama, PTSD, relationship issues, grief, bipolar disorder, and personality disorder. I believe that every client I treat deserves respect and has the ability to empower themselves to meet their individual life goals. I love what I do and I appreciate every client who walks through my door. I have a specialization in grief therapy and trauma.
(479) 763-3608 View (479) 763-3608
Photo of Stacy Adams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arkansas
Stacy Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-TA, ASDCS, CCATPCA, EMDR-T, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenwood, AR 72936
I am also a grief/trauma specialist, Autism & Anxiety Specialist.
I want to start by saying that I truly hold a solid belief that each and every human deserves to feel happiness, love, excitement, contentment, and ultimately to achieve their dreams, desires, goals, and best-selves! I implement an integrative approach, with a craving to help. Whether that assistance be with a child struggling with ADHD, an individual learning to cope with anxiety/depression, a couple struggling, or an entire family in need, I am devoted to seeking out and destroying the obstacles, strongholds, cognitive distortions, or whatever the “problem” is that is impeding their ability to live happy, healthy, fulfilled lives.
I am also a grief/trauma specialist, Autism & Anxiety Specialist.
I want to start by saying that I truly hold a solid belief that each and every human deserves to feel happiness, love, excitement, contentment, and ultimately to achieve their dreams, desires, goals, and best-selves! I implement an integrative approach, with a craving to help. Whether that assistance be with a child struggling with ADHD, an individual learning to cope with anxiety/depression, a couple struggling, or an entire family in need, I am devoted to seeking out and destroying the obstacles, strongholds, cognitive distortions, or whatever the “problem” is that is impeding their ability to live happy, healthy, fulfilled lives.
(479) 342-4522 View (479) 342-4522
Photo of Julie Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Julie Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rogers, AR 72758
It takes courage to ask for help. As your therapist I will help you become comfortable with increasing your self awareness and learning what you can do to have a more fulfilling life. We will work together to develop plan to work on what you decide is the issue. You will learn to have better connection with yourself and others. I have been helping people for over 10 years and have worked in a variety of settings which equips me to be able to help with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, trauma, grief, addiction issues and sexually maladaptive behaviors.
It takes courage to ask for help. As your therapist I will help you become comfortable with increasing your self awareness and learning what you can do to have a more fulfilling life. We will work together to develop plan to work on what you decide is the issue. You will learn to have better connection with yourself and others. I have been helping people for over 10 years and have worked in a variety of settings which equips me to be able to help with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, trauma, grief, addiction issues and sexually maladaptive behaviors.
(479) 255-2767 View (479) 255-2767
Photo of Dorcas VanGilst, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Dorcas VanGilst
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenbrier, AR 72058  (Online Only)
For many years my clients have primarily been individuals, groups, and families coming out of abusive and sometimes violent relationships and addiction. Although that was the original primary focus, most of them also struggled with other accompanying factors like depression, anxiety and other serious mental health diagnoses. My clinical focus has recently shifted to more of a community-based population. I have found this work incredibly rewarding. I enjoy working with additional needs such as grief, prenatal, postpartum depression, and abandonment trauma to name a few.
For many years my clients have primarily been individuals, groups, and families coming out of abusive and sometimes violent relationships and addiction. Although that was the original primary focus, most of them also struggled with other accompanying factors like depression, anxiety and other serious mental health diagnoses. My clinical focus has recently shifted to more of a community-based population. I have found this work incredibly rewarding. I enjoy working with additional needs such as grief, prenatal, postpartum depression, and abandonment trauma to name a few.
(501) 299-9468 View (501) 299-9468
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 Stevi Kuykendall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Stevi Kuykendall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springdale, AR 72762
I have experience working with a variety of issues related to depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, grief, anger, and mood regulation in all ages.
I am a native of NWA, and graduated from the University of Arkansas with a Master of Social Work Degree. I entered the mental health field where I have worked with clients of all ages in a variety of settings including therapeutic day treatment, inpatient treatment, integrated behavioral health, and a healthcare clinic. I firmly believe that mental health challenges should not define a person’s worth, and that all individuals are capable and worthy of a positive quality of life.
I have experience working with a variety of issues related to depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, grief, anger, and mood regulation in all ages.
I am a native of NWA, and graduated from the University of Arkansas with a Master of Social Work Degree. I entered the mental health field where I have worked with clients of all ages in a variety of settings including therapeutic day treatment, inpatient treatment, integrated behavioral health, and a healthcare clinic. I firmly believe that mental health challenges should not define a person’s worth, and that all individuals are capable and worthy of a positive quality of life.
(479) 364-5921 View (479) 364-5921
Photo of Sean Millhouse, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Sean Millhouse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
I believe that we are the storytellers of our lives. Along the way, we may get lost due to hardship, trauma, loss, and the disconnection from our core values. In my work as a therapist, I am dedicated to helping you rewrite your story from a place of compassion, empowerment, curiosity, and acceptance. Sometimes we need to reset or rediscover our internal compass, and I would be honored to help you find your way on your path to healing and contentment.
I believe that we are the storytellers of our lives. Along the way, we may get lost due to hardship, trauma, loss, and the disconnection from our core values. In my work as a therapist, I am dedicated to helping you rewrite your story from a place of compassion, empowerment, curiosity, and acceptance. Sometimes we need to reset or rediscover our internal compass, and I would be honored to help you find your way on your path to healing and contentment.
(479) 239-9221 View (479) 239-9221
Photo of Halee Roberts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Halee Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72701
including Alaska, providing me with a deeper understanding of different beliefs about life, spirituality, and death among different people.
It is natural to experience pain as well as joy during life. It is not, however, natural to remain in a state of suffering. I believe we are meant to live happy, joyful lives within a background of inner peace. Sometimes life's circumstances throw us off balance and professional help is needed to find our way back. That's what I do, that's my purpose, to help others regain, or possibly even discover for the first time that life is not to be feared or dreaded because of hurtful emotions.
including Alaska, providing me with a deeper understanding of different beliefs about life, spirituality, and death among different people.
It is natural to experience pain as well as joy during life. It is not, however, natural to remain in a state of suffering. I believe we are meant to live happy, joyful lives within a background of inner peace. Sometimes life's circumstances throw us off balance and professional help is needed to find our way back. That's what I do, that's my purpose, to help others regain, or possibly even discover for the first time that life is not to be feared or dreaded because of hurtful emotions.
(479) 777-8292 View (479) 777-8292
Photo of Terrah Graves, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Terrah Graves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72703
I can apply my knowledge of human behavior & psychology towards healing for most mental health concerns, to include anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, BPD; with additional specialized training in sexuality, relationships, attachment trauma, addiction, and grief.
As a therapist I strive to be a steady source of knowledge, compassion, resources & support in your journey towards deep healing and positive change. I use research-based modalities & time-tested wisdom to empower and educate my clients. I take seriously my role in a client's life. Because of this I am always seeking knowledge. I am a certified Holistic Sex Therapist, certified Couples Institute therapist, Yoga Instructor, & pull from Internal Family Systems, Jungian Psychology, mindfulness-based stress reduction, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and Schema Therapy.
I can apply my knowledge of human behavior & psychology towards healing for most mental health concerns, to include anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, BPD; with additional specialized training in sexuality, relationships, attachment trauma, addiction, and grief.
As a therapist I strive to be a steady source of knowledge, compassion, resources & support in your journey towards deep healing and positive change. I use research-based modalities & time-tested wisdom to empower and educate my clients. I take seriously my role in a client's life. Because of this I am always seeking knowledge. I am a certified Holistic Sex Therapist, certified Couples Institute therapist, Yoga Instructor, & pull from Internal Family Systems, Jungian Psychology, mindfulness-based stress reduction, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and Schema Therapy.
(479) 322-3355 View (479) 322-3355
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 Tracey Wren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Tracey Wren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR with a specific emphasis on its application to trauma, anxiety, and grief.
I’m glad you are looking for someone to talk to! Maybe you are experiencing major life changes, struggling with depression or anxiety, dealing with trauma or relationship wounds, or just feeling stuck or in “auto-pilot” mode. Whatever is bringing you to therapy, I want to reassure you that I am ready to sit with you, listen with my whole heart, and help you work towards the goals you have (and you decide those). Together we will work to forge a path of more peace, connection, and fulfillment with yourself and in your life. I believe we all need a space to process life and I am honored to get to be a part of that healing process.
I am trained in EMDR with a specific emphasis on its application to trauma, anxiety, and grief.
I’m glad you are looking for someone to talk to! Maybe you are experiencing major life changes, struggling with depression or anxiety, dealing with trauma or relationship wounds, or just feeling stuck or in “auto-pilot” mode. Whatever is bringing you to therapy, I want to reassure you that I am ready to sit with you, listen with my whole heart, and help you work towards the goals you have (and you decide those). Together we will work to forge a path of more peace, connection, and fulfillment with yourself and in your life. I believe we all need a space to process life and I am honored to get to be a part of that healing process.
(479) 777-2833 View (479) 777-2833
Photo of Dawn Marie Ellis, Counselor in Arkansas
Dawn Marie Ellis
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72903
Shame is never a motivator. Many of your issues may be rooted in shame that you never even realized. Shame can take on many forms; pressure to live up to other's expectations of us, pressure to perform at the rate those around us seem to be, or pressure to live up to our own impossible standards we have created for ourselves. When these measures are not met, we can feel depleted, discouraged, and even hopeless. Or perhaps we have been verbally told by others (either past or present) they were disappointed in us or we weren't good enough. And we cannot seem to escape these defeating and destructive thoughts.
Shame is never a motivator. Many of your issues may be rooted in shame that you never even realized. Shame can take on many forms; pressure to live up to other's expectations of us, pressure to perform at the rate those around us seem to be, or pressure to live up to our own impossible standards we have created for ourselves. When these measures are not met, we can feel depleted, discouraged, and even hopeless. Or perhaps we have been verbally told by others (either past or present) they were disappointed in us or we weren't good enough. And we cannot seem to escape these defeating and destructive thoughts.
(479) 339-3983 View (479) 339-3983
Photo of Megan Little, Counselor in Arkansas
Megan Little
Counselor, PhD, LPC, CPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72701  (Online Only)
Do you ever wake up and question what your purpose is? Do you notice that those outward successes & achievements you strived so hard for no longer bring any joy or fulfillment? Going through the day-to-day routine just feeling on autopilot with all your interactions and activities even when the weekend comes & it is meant to be time for you. Even the strongest shot of expresso can't seem to shake you out of this haze. If you are ready to dig in, & question what you thought you wanted & who you thought you were then you are ready to work together. You are ready to leave others' expectations behind & find yourself.
Do you ever wake up and question what your purpose is? Do you notice that those outward successes & achievements you strived so hard for no longer bring any joy or fulfillment? Going through the day-to-day routine just feeling on autopilot with all your interactions and activities even when the weekend comes & it is meant to be time for you. Even the strongest shot of expresso can't seem to shake you out of this haze. If you are ready to dig in, & question what you thought you wanted & who you thought you were then you are ready to work together. You are ready to leave others' expectations behind & find yourself.
(719) 427-4771 View (719) 427-4771
Photo of Angela Stillwell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Angela Stillwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MRC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jonesboro, AR 72401  (Online Only)
I provide holistic and integrative mental health. I believe that therapy offers a unique opportunity for intensive emotional and intellectual growth so that one can be better equipped to lead a more productive and fulfilling life. An individual can begin to consider one's life from a different point of view by attaching new meaning to his/her past, explore new avenues for reaching life goals, decrease painful feelings and increase their ability to cope with life's stressors. I believe in the value of the therapeutic relationship and its influence in creating positive change.
I provide holistic and integrative mental health. I believe that therapy offers a unique opportunity for intensive emotional and intellectual growth so that one can be better equipped to lead a more productive and fulfilling life. An individual can begin to consider one's life from a different point of view by attaching new meaning to his/her past, explore new avenues for reaching life goals, decrease painful feelings and increase their ability to cope with life's stressors. I believe in the value of the therapeutic relationship and its influence in creating positive change.
(870) 343-9370 View (870) 343-9370
Photo of Chelsea Taylor, Counselor in Arkansas
Chelsea Taylor
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72212  (Online Only)
Welcome to Chat Wit Chels Counseling Services! We are a virtual Mental Health Therapy practice. We serve millennial men and women struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions and trauma. Let us help you overcome day to day challenges and feel empowered again. My goal is to walk alongside individuals who are struggling to heal from past experiences, and help them navigate through current changes in their lives, and enable them to live their most authentic lives.
Welcome to Chat Wit Chels Counseling Services! We are a virtual Mental Health Therapy practice. We serve millennial men and women struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions and trauma. Let us help you overcome day to day challenges and feel empowered again. My goal is to walk alongside individuals who are struggling to heal from past experiences, and help them navigate through current changes in their lives, and enable them to live their most authentic lives.
(501) 506-3188 View (501) 506-3188
Photo of Mitzi E Henderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Mitzi E Henderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Russellville, AR 72801
Are you struggling in an area that you would like to improve? This could be your mood, your relationship with others, learning better communication, overall life satisfaction, or other areas. As a therapist, my role is to collaborate with you to establish goals to improve the identified area. One way is to tap into the your naturally built in strengths. You have used those strengths so far to make it to this point in life. I enjoy working with people and helping them reach their goals. Also, I am an ally and have experience working with clients in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Are you struggling in an area that you would like to improve? This could be your mood, your relationship with others, learning better communication, overall life satisfaction, or other areas. As a therapist, my role is to collaborate with you to establish goals to improve the identified area. One way is to tap into the your naturally built in strengths. You have used those strengths so far to make it to this point in life. I enjoy working with people and helping them reach their goals. Also, I am an ally and have experience working with clients in the LGBTQIA+ community.
(479) 239-9079 View (479) 239-9079
Photo of Betty Deere, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Betty Deere
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72205
Since our society has shifted into a high tech world, text and email communication has dominated. Communication (TALKING to and with one another) has suffered. Real consequences include an epidemic OF lonliness among all age groups. Anxiety and depression are not uncommon and medications to treat those symtoms have shot out of the roof. Marital distress and divorce rates and have risen alarmingly. Suicide rates also. Communication of our needs and feelings often aren't expressed at all, or in ways that do not result in understanding and resolutions. With no resolution comes isolation.
Since our society has shifted into a high tech world, text and email communication has dominated. Communication (TALKING to and with one another) has suffered. Real consequences include an epidemic OF lonliness among all age groups. Anxiety and depression are not uncommon and medications to treat those symtoms have shot out of the roof. Marital distress and divorce rates and have risen alarmingly. Suicide rates also. Communication of our needs and feelings often aren't expressed at all, or in ways that do not result in understanding and resolutions. With no resolution comes isolation.
(501) 229-8209 View (501) 229-8209
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.