ROAN Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
If you are ready for support after loss or guidance with transitions, challenges, and/or traumas you're experiencing, reach out and see how counseling can help.
Are you or your child experiencing some challenges? Have you recently experienced a significant life change that is impacting your mental health? Or perhaps you have a history of trauma and adversity, and are seeking support in processing those experiences. Therapists at ROAN are here to help. Whether you or your child are navigating experiences of divorce/separation, abuse/neglect, or general stressors- we are here to help. With offices in Crystal Lake and Aurora, we hope to serve you and your family well.
If you are ready for support after loss or guidance with transitions, challenges, and/or traumas you're experiencing, reach out and see how counseling can help.
Are you or your child experiencing some challenges? Have you recently experienced a significant life change that is impacting your mental health? Or perhaps you have a history of trauma and adversity, and are seeking support in processing those experiences. Therapists at ROAN are here to help. Whether you or your child are navigating experiences of divorce/separation, abuse/neglect, or general stressors- we are here to help. With offices in Crystal Lake and Aurora, we hope to serve you and your family well.
(815) 205-0914 View (815) 205-0914
Photo of Catherine Radosevich, Psychologist in Crystal Lake, IL
Catherine Radosevich
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Do you or your child have difficulties with regulating emotions, staying focused and organized, or maintaining social and personal relationships? Have you been feeling overwhelmed, under-stimulated, or burned out on life? Are you a young person struggling to launch into adulthood post-pandemic? I work with people who are neurodivergent across all ages with diagnoses such as ASD & ADHD. I also find great joy in helping people with trauma, mood disorders, relationship conflicts, life adjustments, or difficulties with grief and loss. I practice therapy that is affirming of all identities, orientations, and cultures.
Do you or your child have difficulties with regulating emotions, staying focused and organized, or maintaining social and personal relationships? Have you been feeling overwhelmed, under-stimulated, or burned out on life? Are you a young person struggling to launch into adulthood post-pandemic? I work with people who are neurodivergent across all ages with diagnoses such as ASD & ADHD. I also find great joy in helping people with trauma, mood disorders, relationship conflicts, life adjustments, or difficulties with grief and loss. I practice therapy that is affirming of all identities, orientations, and cultures.
(779) 237-1378 View (779) 237-1378
Photo of Amanda Martinez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
Amanda Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CRMT, MSW
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I help adults and children struggling with anxiety, depression, and insecurity - transition to feeling safe and secure, while moving forward in life with confidence and trust in themselves. I have worked with children and adults who have experienced sexual assault, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, complex trauma, dysfunctional relationships, prenatal/postpartum depression/anxiety, grief, self-worth challenges, addictions to food/drugs/alcohol, and perfectionism.I also have experience working with children and their families with a variety of youth challenges. I will work with you and your child to help negotiate big emotions,
I help adults and children struggling with anxiety, depression, and insecurity - transition to feeling safe and secure, while moving forward in life with confidence and trust in themselves. I have worked with children and adults who have experienced sexual assault, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, complex trauma, dysfunctional relationships, prenatal/postpartum depression/anxiety, grief, self-worth challenges, addictions to food/drugs/alcohol, and perfectionism.I also have experience working with children and their families with a variety of youth challenges. I will work with you and your child to help negotiate big emotions,
(815) 384-1098 View (815) 384-1098
Photo of Kim Wilson in Crystal Lake, IL
Kim Wilson
AMFT, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Committed to assisting each individual as they build on their existing strengths to live their best life possible. The approach is to meet the clients where they are and help create a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can process and heal. Working with each client(s) to determine the best therapeutic approach. Experienced working with play therapy, anxiety, depression, ADHD, LGBTQ+ Community Members, abuse, trauma, grief, life transitions, family relational problems, BPD, and other life experiences and diagnosis. -we do not accept Medicaid or Medicare at this time-
Committed to assisting each individual as they build on their existing strengths to live their best life possible. The approach is to meet the clients where they are and help create a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can process and heal. Working with each client(s) to determine the best therapeutic approach. Experienced working with play therapy, anxiety, depression, ADHD, LGBTQ+ Community Members, abuse, trauma, grief, life transitions, family relational problems, BPD, and other life experiences and diagnosis. -we do not accept Medicaid or Medicare at this time-
(847) 916-8473 View (847) 916-8473
Photo of Blair Counseling and Mediation in Crystal Lake, IL
Blair Counseling and Mediation
LMFT, LCPC, NCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
Our clients enjoy humor, are honest, and are wanting to try new things if it makes sense to them. Some want relief from depression, or various forms of anxiety including trauma and grief. Others struggle with addictions and addictive behavior and are looking for ways to feel more in control. Or, they have concerns about their kids, ADHD, autism, or other behavior, and would like someone to come along side them to help support them or their child. Services are also available in Spanish. Christian counseling can be requested. Prefer Communication Coaching to Therapy? Find our app (MinuteMood.com) on Google Play and Apple Play stores.
Our clients enjoy humor, are honest, and are wanting to try new things if it makes sense to them. Some want relief from depression, or various forms of anxiety including trauma and grief. Others struggle with addictions and addictive behavior and are looking for ways to feel more in control. Or, they have concerns about their kids, ADHD, autism, or other behavior, and would like someone to come along side them to help support them or their child. Services are also available in Spanish. Christian counseling can be requested. Prefer Communication Coaching to Therapy? Find our app (MinuteMood.com) on Google Play and Apple Play stores.
(815) 450-9902 View (815) 450-9902
Photo of Sarah Barham in Crystal Lake, IL
Sarah Barham
LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I use psychotherapy and evidence-based interventions like CBT and DBT to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, difficult life transitions, ADHD, teen and young adult issues, parent-teen relational problems, stress and anger management problems, and mood dysregulation disorders.
Welcome! If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, depressed, irritable, anxious, defeated, afraid, uncertain, or alone, call me. Or do you need help with relationships or sleep hygiene or stress management? I'm here to help. I am eager to learn about your individual needs and goals so that together we can improve your quality of life.
I use psychotherapy and evidence-based interventions like CBT and DBT to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, difficult life transitions, ADHD, teen and young adult issues, parent-teen relational problems, stress and anger management problems, and mood dysregulation disorders.
Welcome! If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, depressed, irritable, anxious, defeated, afraid, uncertain, or alone, call me. Or do you need help with relationships or sleep hygiene or stress management? I'm here to help. I am eager to learn about your individual needs and goals so that together we can improve your quality of life.
(847) 994-4161 x101 View (847) 994-4161 x101
Photo of Judy A Carlson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
Judy A Carlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I have over 30 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups addressing the following: anxiety, depression, addiction and recovery, substance use disorders, co-dependency, adolescent issues, relationship/family issues, grief and loss, adjustment issues, stress management and mood disorders.
I believe in working collaboratively with a client to help them work through problems and barriers so that they can reach their unique potential. I believe in a positive, solution focused approach, which encourages hope and gratitude related to all of life's lessons.
I have over 30 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups addressing the following: anxiety, depression, addiction and recovery, substance use disorders, co-dependency, adolescent issues, relationship/family issues, grief and loss, adjustment issues, stress management and mood disorders.
I believe in working collaboratively with a client to help them work through problems and barriers so that they can reach their unique potential. I believe in a positive, solution focused approach, which encourages hope and gratitude related to all of life's lessons.
(847) 813-7320 x132 View (847) 813-7320 x132
Photo of Mercedes Conus, Licensed Professional Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Mercedes Conus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I am a fully bilingual Spanish/English EMDR therapist who treats trauma, post-partum depression, low self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, prolonged grief, school refusal, self-harm, ADHD, bipolar, DID, addiction, disruptive behavior, relationship conflict, and physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
We all have a story and this story guides us. I believe that life is a journey with good and bad moments. Coping with these challenges could be difficult; why do you have to go through it alone? I believe therapy is a place where you truly find yourself and grow as person. I believe it takes great courage, self insight, and strength to reach out for help. Often when we are adjusting to new life circumstances, we don't realize the importance of acceptance. Therapy is a great place to process, explore and adapt to these changes. In therapy, we will work together to identify your needs and find the best of you.
I am a fully bilingual Spanish/English EMDR therapist who treats trauma, post-partum depression, low self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, prolonged grief, school refusal, self-harm, ADHD, bipolar, DID, addiction, disruptive behavior, relationship conflict, and physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
We all have a story and this story guides us. I believe that life is a journey with good and bad moments. Coping with these challenges could be difficult; why do you have to go through it alone? I believe therapy is a place where you truly find yourself and grow as person. I believe it takes great courage, self insight, and strength to reach out for help. Often when we are adjusting to new life circumstances, we don't realize the importance of acceptance. Therapy is a great place to process, explore and adapt to these changes. In therapy, we will work together to identify your needs and find the best of you.
(847) 469-9869 View (847) 469-9869
Photo of Jim Grimm, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Jim Grimm
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I have expertise dealing with anxiety issues, addiction and recovery, depression, complicated grief and loss with adults and children, behavioral and relationship issues, parenting, family and relationship issues and sports counseling that includes motivation, performance and code of conduct issues.
My broad base of experience recognizes the whole person in a solution-focused approach that is realistic and achievable. I utilize insight oriented, cognitive-behavioral and family oriented approaches in my counseling milieu. I am devoted to helping adults, children and adolescents (6-18 years), couples and families.
I have expertise dealing with anxiety issues, addiction and recovery, depression, complicated grief and loss with adults and children, behavioral and relationship issues, parenting, family and relationship issues and sports counseling that includes motivation, performance and code of conduct issues.
My broad base of experience recognizes the whole person in a solution-focused approach that is realistic and achievable. I utilize insight oriented, cognitive-behavioral and family oriented approaches in my counseling milieu. I am devoted to helping adults, children and adolescents (6-18 years), couples and families.
(847) 607-1125 x141 View (847) 607-1125 x141
Photo of Revival Therapy, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Revival Therapy
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Our areas of expertise are: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, disordered eating, substance use disorders, personality disorders, grief, divorce, PTSD/trauma, co-dependency, narcissistic abuse, chronic illness, and life adjustments/transitions.
At Revival Therapy believe in compassionate care and authentic connections dedicated towards your wellness. Collectively our professional counselors have over 50 years of experience in the mental heath field working with individuals, couples and families. We believe the key towards your healing lies deeply within you. Our role is to be on the journey with you, helping guide you, and tap into those unrealized or forgotten strengths. We are with you every step of the way on your journey to a personal revival. We are accepting new clients. Let us help you begin your REVIVAL today. Your mental health matters!
Our areas of expertise are: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, disordered eating, substance use disorders, personality disorders, grief, divorce, PTSD/trauma, co-dependency, narcissistic abuse, chronic illness, and life adjustments/transitions.
At Revival Therapy believe in compassionate care and authentic connections dedicated towards your wellness. Collectively our professional counselors have over 50 years of experience in the mental heath field working with individuals, couples and families. We believe the key towards your healing lies deeply within you. Our role is to be on the journey with you, helping guide you, and tap into those unrealized or forgotten strengths. We are with you every step of the way on your journey to a personal revival. We are accepting new clients. Let us help you begin your REVIVAL today. Your mental health matters!
(779) 243-5246 View (779) 243-5246
Photo of Adam Rietveld, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Adam Rietveld
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I have over 15 years of experience in the behavioral health field working with a variety of presenting problems and concerns, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, grief, substance use and abuse as well as other behavior changes. I have an eclectic style of counseling, drawing upon Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused therapy, Person-Centered, and Cognitive Behavioral therapy in order to see how thoughts, feelings, and actions are connected and affect our daily lives.
I have over 15 years of experience in the behavioral health field working with a variety of presenting problems and concerns, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, grief, substance use and abuse as well as other behavior changes. I have an eclectic style of counseling, drawing upon Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused therapy, Person-Centered, and Cognitive Behavioral therapy in order to see how thoughts, feelings, and actions are connected and affect our daily lives.
(815) 264-2025 View (815) 264-2025
Photo of Julianna Evischi, Licensed Social Worker in Crystal Lake, IL
Julianna Evischi
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
In addition, I treat anxiety, depression, BiPolar Disorder, disordered eating, PTSD/trauma, substance use disorders, co-dependency, life adjustments/life transitions, chronic stress related issues and grief.
Hi, I'm Julianna, and I work with both teens and adults! I believe that everyone has a unique story and I acknowledge that beginning therapy can feel intimidating and even scary. I approach therapy with a collaborative mindset, free of judgement, and built on mutual respect and trust. I value a therapeutic environment where one is free to be their authentic self. I value a focus on solutions, offering guidance and unconditional support, while simultaneously acknowledging that you are the expert of your own life.
In addition, I treat anxiety, depression, BiPolar Disorder, disordered eating, PTSD/trauma, substance use disorders, co-dependency, life adjustments/life transitions, chronic stress related issues and grief.
Hi, I'm Julianna, and I work with both teens and adults! I believe that everyone has a unique story and I acknowledge that beginning therapy can feel intimidating and even scary. I approach therapy with a collaborative mindset, free of judgement, and built on mutual respect and trust. I value a therapeutic environment where one is free to be their authentic self. I value a focus on solutions, offering guidance and unconditional support, while simultaneously acknowledging that you are the expert of your own life.
(815) 396-6425 View (815) 396-6425
Photo of Kristina Pomagier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
Kristina Pomagier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Greetings, My name is Kristina Pomagier. My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced a variety of mental health issues including trauma, attachment disruptions, grief and loss, depression, and/or anxiety. Severe mental health issues, psychosis (hallucinations and delusional thinking), and personality disorders. Suicidal ideation and/or self-injurious thoughts or behaviors. Children, adolescents, and adults experiencing mood instability, emotional disturbance, or anger management. Specialized training in substance abuse across the lifespan. Sports performance. I look forward to helping you!
Greetings, My name is Kristina Pomagier. My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced a variety of mental health issues including trauma, attachment disruptions, grief and loss, depression, and/or anxiety. Severe mental health issues, psychosis (hallucinations and delusional thinking), and personality disorders. Suicidal ideation and/or self-injurious thoughts or behaviors. Children, adolescents, and adults experiencing mood instability, emotional disturbance, or anger management. Specialized training in substance abuse across the lifespan. Sports performance. I look forward to helping you!
(779) 244-4508 View (779) 244-4508
Kennis Harr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Waitlist for new clients
I'm here as a compassionate guide, offering support and encouragement as you embrace your innate strengths, fostering growth, and navigating life's intricacies with resilience and self-compassion. We often believe we are broken, unlovable, or inadequate; I provide a safe space to share and deconstruct those beliefs. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating personality/mood disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, substance use, life transitions, military issues/transitions, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
I'm here as a compassionate guide, offering support and encouragement as you embrace your innate strengths, fostering growth, and navigating life's intricacies with resilience and self-compassion. We often believe we are broken, unlovable, or inadequate; I provide a safe space to share and deconstruct those beliefs. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating personality/mood disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, substance use, life transitions, military issues/transitions, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
(815) 473-8371 View (815) 473-8371
Photo of Gale Lee Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
Gale Lee Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
I have worked with angry people, individuals with transgender and sexual orientation issues, and older adults dealing with loss.
My job, as I see it, is not to fix you, but to help you fix yourself. To do that, I help you find the tools you already have and remind you that - on some deep level - you already know how to use them. My approach is cognitive, because I believe the way we think about our lives helps create them.
I have worked with angry people, individuals with transgender and sexual orientation issues, and older adults dealing with loss.
My job, as I see it, is not to fix you, but to help you fix yourself. To do that, I help you find the tools you already have and remind you that - on some deep level - you already know how to use them. My approach is cognitive, because I believe the way we think about our lives helps create them.
(815) 572-4242 View (815) 572-4242
Photo of Healthy Mentality, LLC, Psychologist in Crystal Lake, IL
Healthy Mentality, LLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Healthy Mentality specializes in trauma related concerns, such as (but not limited to) emotional/physical/sexual abuse, domestic abuse, trauma arising from difficult relationships, accidents, divorce or the loss of loved ones.
Everyone struggles at some point in their lives; we are humans, not robots. But sometimes those struggles can become overwhelming, and we don’t know how to manage our fears, feelings, thoughts or behaviors. Here, at Healthy Mentality, we will guide you to face those fears and concerns in a safe environment. We offer traditional in-office therapy, as well as animal-assisted psychotherapy.
Healthy Mentality specializes in trauma related concerns, such as (but not limited to) emotional/physical/sexual abuse, domestic abuse, trauma arising from difficult relationships, accidents, divorce or the loss of loved ones.
Everyone struggles at some point in their lives; we are humans, not robots. But sometimes those struggles can become overwhelming, and we don’t know how to manage our fears, feelings, thoughts or behaviors. Here, at Healthy Mentality, we will guide you to face those fears and concerns in a safe environment. We offer traditional in-office therapy, as well as animal-assisted psychotherapy.
(833) 496-1126 View (833) 496-1126
Photo of David P Cook, Marriage & Family Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
David P Cook
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
Does if feel like you're at a loss for how to make things better? Are you struggling with a relationship problem, and individual challenge or family conflict? Are you not "feeling the love" in your marriage, stressed over a life event, or trying to keep your family from falling apart? If you answered "yes" to any of this questions, it might be time to give me a call. I am confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome these challenges.
Does if feel like you're at a loss for how to make things better? Are you struggling with a relationship problem, and individual challenge or family conflict? Are you not "feeling the love" in your marriage, stressed over a life event, or trying to keep your family from falling apart? If you answered "yes" to any of this questions, it might be time to give me a call. I am confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome these challenges.
(815) 768-4712 View (815) 768-4712
Photo of Megan A Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
Megan A Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I utilize evidence-based techniques such as: mindfulness, expressive therapy, solution focused therapy, CBT, DBT, grief counseling.
We all experience times where we feel overwhelmed, stuck, struggle with a negative mindset, and need guidance to find new ways to cope. I encourage my clients to look at therapy as a consistent “check-up” purposefully focusing on both their mental health and overall well-being. I am an active and engaged therapist that will work with you to provide compassionate guidance, unconditional support and encouragement. I can treat teens as young as age 13, adults, and couples struggling with a vast number of issues. Let's work together to pave your new path to thriving instead of surviving one step at a time.
I utilize evidence-based techniques such as: mindfulness, expressive therapy, solution focused therapy, CBT, DBT, grief counseling.
We all experience times where we feel overwhelmed, stuck, struggle with a negative mindset, and need guidance to find new ways to cope. I encourage my clients to look at therapy as a consistent “check-up” purposefully focusing on both their mental health and overall well-being. I am an active and engaged therapist that will work with you to provide compassionate guidance, unconditional support and encouragement. I can treat teens as young as age 13, adults, and couples struggling with a vast number of issues. Let's work together to pave your new path to thriving instead of surviving one step at a time.
(815) 686-1484 View (815) 686-1484
Photo of Daniel Garcia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Daniel Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I appreciate that you have made a choice to find a therapist with whom you would like to work. It is a crucial step that may have taken a great deal of deliberation. It is no easy feat to work with another in addressing past traumas, suffering, loss, pain, isolation, or the myriad of difficulties and stressors one may incur as a result of the human condition, though forging a story that is uniquely yours to transcend the hardships you have overcome takes tremendous strength and courage. I hope that you consider working with me in pursuing a path that leads towards self actualization, as it is profoundly rewarding and enriching.
I appreciate that you have made a choice to find a therapist with whom you would like to work. It is a crucial step that may have taken a great deal of deliberation. It is no easy feat to work with another in addressing past traumas, suffering, loss, pain, isolation, or the myriad of difficulties and stressors one may incur as a result of the human condition, though forging a story that is uniquely yours to transcend the hardships you have overcome takes tremendous strength and courage. I hope that you consider working with me in pursuing a path that leads towards self actualization, as it is profoundly rewarding and enriching.
(847) 892-4026 View (847) 892-4026
Photo of Mary Rizzo, Psychologist in Crystal Lake, IL
Mary Rizzo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
My experience includes work in behavioral health hospitals, university counseling centers, and an outpatient family counseling setting. I work with adolescents, adults, and families, specializing in grief and loss, trauma, and relationship concerns. I also works with caregivers for chronic diseases, the transgender population, and those struggling with identity exploration. In addition to therapy, Dr. Rizzo provides psychological testing across the lifespan to assess intellectual functioning, academic concerns, ADHD-related symptoms, learning and behavioral styles, and diagnostic clarification regarding clinical diagnosis.
My experience includes work in behavioral health hospitals, university counseling centers, and an outpatient family counseling setting. I work with adolescents, adults, and families, specializing in grief and loss, trauma, and relationship concerns. I also works with caregivers for chronic diseases, the transgender population, and those struggling with identity exploration. In addition to therapy, Dr. Rizzo provides psychological testing across the lifespan to assess intellectual functioning, academic concerns, ADHD-related symptoms, learning and behavioral styles, and diagnostic clarification regarding clinical diagnosis.
(708) 294-7813 View (708) 294-7813

See more therapy options for Crystal Lake

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.