Photo of Sharon Bloch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake County, IL
Sharon Bloch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
I specialize in the areas of grief and loss throughout the life cycle, relationship issues, life transitions, depression and anxiety, and post-partum mood disorders.
Whether you are experiencing a heartbreak, a new diagnosis, or trying to understand how you arrived at this place in your life, my job as your therapist is to assist you through these struggles and explore alternative ways to think and cope. I will provide a compassionate place for you to freely express yourself and give you honest feedback. We will tailor your individual treatment to reflect your concerns and goals while we regularly re-evaluate our progress.
I specialize in the areas of grief and loss throughout the life cycle, relationship issues, life transitions, depression and anxiety, and post-partum mood disorders.
Whether you are experiencing a heartbreak, a new diagnosis, or trying to understand how you arrived at this place in your life, my job as your therapist is to assist you through these struggles and explore alternative ways to think and cope. I will provide a compassionate place for you to freely express yourself and give you honest feedback. We will tailor your individual treatment to reflect your concerns and goals while we regularly re-evaluate our progress.
(847) 243-6622 View (847) 243-6622
Photo of Jill Kreller, Counselor in Lake County, IL
Jill Kreller
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
My areas of speciality include treatment of personality disorders, mood disorders, maladaptive behaviors, anxiety/ depression, working through grief, illness and trauma, LGBTQ concerns, Adolescent Psychology, Couple's therapy and Collaborative Divorce.
I am a therapist with over ten years of experience providing assessment, crisis intervention and psychotherapy to individuals in the community. I assist individuals as they find the best solutions to dealing with mental health concerns, life transitions and accomplishment of goals.I believe that all individuals have within them the skills needed to lead an actualized, fulfilling and meaningful life.I will tailor therapy to your individual characteristics and work with you to find interventions that best suit your needs, goals and skill set.
My areas of speciality include treatment of personality disorders, mood disorders, maladaptive behaviors, anxiety/ depression, working through grief, illness and trauma, LGBTQ concerns, Adolescent Psychology, Couple's therapy and Collaborative Divorce.
I am a therapist with over ten years of experience providing assessment, crisis intervention and psychotherapy to individuals in the community. I assist individuals as they find the best solutions to dealing with mental health concerns, life transitions and accomplishment of goals.I believe that all individuals have within them the skills needed to lead an actualized, fulfilling and meaningful life.I will tailor therapy to your individual characteristics and work with you to find interventions that best suit your needs, goals and skill set.
(847) 978-4500 View (847) 978-4500
Photo of Sarah Christian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake County, IL
Sarah Christian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
Life brings many stressors and we can all benefit from having a confidential place to sort out our concerns. I have been in practice for over 30 years helping clients with issues such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues and stress management. I have worked with individuals, adolescents and couples in a relationally based, psychodynamic format. I was also the director of, and involved with, a psycho-educational parenting program for over 12 years. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and with adolescents as they grow through facing the challenges of life.
Life brings many stressors and we can all benefit from having a confidential place to sort out our concerns. I have been in practice for over 30 years helping clients with issues such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues and stress management. I have worked with individuals, adolescents and couples in a relationally based, psychodynamic format. I was also the director of, and involved with, a psycho-educational parenting program for over 12 years. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and with adolescents as they grow through facing the challenges of life.
(847) 979-4339 View (847) 979-4339
Photo of Lynn Frances Cartwright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake County, IL
Lynn Frances Cartwright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Fox Lake, IL 60020  (Online Only)
as well as grief, aging and trauma issues.
I have experience with treating clients with a variety of diagnoses including Depression, Anxiety Disorder, Bi-polar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Sexuality Issues, Transgender issues, Substance Abuse, Psychosis, Behavioral and Parenting Issues. I've worked in the Behavioral Health Unit of a local hospital for the past several years and have practiced in clinics in urban and rural areas. I have seen clients from a variety of educational backgrounds including higher education such as teachers and professors. At this time, I am seeing patients by telehealth only.
as well as grief, aging and trauma issues.
I have experience with treating clients with a variety of diagnoses including Depression, Anxiety Disorder, Bi-polar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Sexuality Issues, Transgender issues, Substance Abuse, Psychosis, Behavioral and Parenting Issues. I've worked in the Behavioral Health Unit of a local hospital for the past several years and have practiced in clinics in urban and rural areas. I have seen clients from a variety of educational backgrounds including higher education such as teachers and professors. At this time, I am seeing patients by telehealth only.
(734) 436-3340 View (734) 436-3340
Photo of Julie Oscherwitz Grant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake County, IL
Julie Oscherwitz Grant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I specialize in the following areas:grief and loss, depression, marital and other relationship difficulties, divorce, young adult transitions and challenges, parenting, and women's medical issues.
We all work hard to take care of ourselves and build positive relationships, but sometimes obstacles get in our way. For more than 20 years, I have worked with people to identify and remove those obstacles, so that they can lead fuller and more joyful lives. You may be derailed by the loss of a job or relationship; feel depressed and not know why, or struggle as a parent. I work with individuals, couples and families to pinpoint your concerns and work toward change. My emphasis is on building honest, open relationships and on using insight to fuel change.
I specialize in the following areas:grief and loss, depression, marital and other relationship difficulties, divorce, young adult transitions and challenges, parenting, and women's medical issues.
We all work hard to take care of ourselves and build positive relationships, but sometimes obstacles get in our way. For more than 20 years, I have worked with people to identify and remove those obstacles, so that they can lead fuller and more joyful lives. You may be derailed by the loss of a job or relationship; feel depressed and not know why, or struggle as a parent. I work with individuals, couples and families to pinpoint your concerns and work toward change. My emphasis is on building honest, open relationships and on using insight to fuel change.
(847) 416-0986 View (847) 416-0986
Photo of Ashley Beth Plotnick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake County, IL
Ashley Beth Plotnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd, MAJS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
She also has a grief counseling certificate and volunteered for the COVID Grief Network.
Ashley is a relationship-centered therapist, who also draws upon family systems theory in her work. Ashley believes that the therapeutic relationship must foster a sense of warmth, authenticity, and acceptance, enabling clients to bring their full selves to the work, creating deeper awareness and a more connected, lived experience. Ashley's varied life experience has taught her that integration is essential on our journey toward wholeness. In this way, she creates safe space for people to bring the many aspects of their own selves - social, emotional, spiritual, and sexual - to the therapy process.
She also has a grief counseling certificate and volunteered for the COVID Grief Network.
Ashley is a relationship-centered therapist, who also draws upon family systems theory in her work. Ashley believes that the therapeutic relationship must foster a sense of warmth, authenticity, and acceptance, enabling clients to bring their full selves to the work, creating deeper awareness and a more connected, lived experience. Ashley's varied life experience has taught her that integration is essential on our journey toward wholeness. In this way, she creates safe space for people to bring the many aspects of their own selves - social, emotional, spiritual, and sexual - to the therapy process.
(224) 269-6469 View (224) 269-6469
Photo of Jean Rock, Counselor in Lake County, IL
Jean Rock
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
My specialties include Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Addiction, LGBTQIA+, Grief, Loss, Relationship Issues, Trauma, and Eating Related Concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with strong clinical training and years of experience in private practice, high school and community mental health settings. I obtained a Master's in Counseling and Psychotherapy from the Institute for Clinical Social Work. In addition, I received certification as a Grief Support Specialist from the University of Wisconsin. My main objective is to support you in gaining a deeper understanding of your emotional challenges, while at the same time, empowering you to make healthy and desired changes.
My specialties include Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Addiction, LGBTQIA+, Grief, Loss, Relationship Issues, Trauma, and Eating Related Concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with strong clinical training and years of experience in private practice, high school and community mental health settings. I obtained a Master's in Counseling and Psychotherapy from the Institute for Clinical Social Work. In addition, I received certification as a Grief Support Specialist from the University of Wisconsin. My main objective is to support you in gaining a deeper understanding of your emotional challenges, while at the same time, empowering you to make healthy and desired changes.
(847) 321-7325 View (847) 321-7325
Photo of Amy Edelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake County, IL
Amy Edelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker and I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings in the mental health field over the past 15 years, with an emphasis on loss and grief. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I create a safe space to support clients so they feel comfortable discussing their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I use a strength-based interactive therapeutic approach, and I enjoy being an advocate for my clients.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings in the mental health field over the past 15 years, with an emphasis on loss and grief. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I create a safe space to support clients so they feel comfortable discussing their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I use a strength-based interactive therapeutic approach, and I enjoy being an advocate for my clients.
(224) 208-1186 View (224) 208-1186
Photo of Damaris Colón-Soto, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lake County, IL
Damaris Colón-Soto
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Life is full of challenges and changes, if you are feeling anxious, depressed, struggling with self-identity, experiencing grief and loss, or other feelings/emotions/thoughts and feel ready to talk about it, I am here for you. I provide a safe space and support for you, by actively listening to your needs. We will walk through your struggles together. You will find a way to cope with a correct approach that fits YOUR needs and the resources that you need.
Life is full of challenges and changes, if you are feeling anxious, depressed, struggling with self-identity, experiencing grief and loss, or other feelings/emotions/thoughts and feel ready to talk about it, I am here for you. I provide a safe space and support for you, by actively listening to your needs. We will walk through your struggles together. You will find a way to cope with a correct approach that fits YOUR needs and the resources that you need.
(773) 923-3138 View (773) 923-3138
Photo of Diana Escobedo, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Lake County, IL
Diana Escobedo
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
You are capable of so much. We all are. When life becomes overwhelming, you may be challenged with feelings of anxiety, depression, grief, lack of motivation and so much more. Talking to a therapist can help you get through these challenging times. I am a licensed therapist with a background in art therapy and counseling. My goal as your therapist is to provide you with a safe space in order to work together through whatever may be causing you emotional difficulties. I have experience working with children, young adults, families and teenagers.
You are capable of so much. We all are. When life becomes overwhelming, you may be challenged with feelings of anxiety, depression, grief, lack of motivation and so much more. Talking to a therapist can help you get through these challenging times. I am a licensed therapist with a background in art therapy and counseling. My goal as your therapist is to provide you with a safe space in order to work together through whatever may be causing you emotional difficulties. I have experience working with children, young adults, families and teenagers.
(815) 893-9165 View (815) 893-9165
Photo of Andrea Freberg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake County, IL
Andrea Freberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAATC, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
I’ve primarily worked with teens and adults in addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, grief and loss, relationship challenges, new transitions, and challenges at school.
It's a privilege to walk alongside clients and meet them where they're at by developing a trusting, consistent relationship. I am prepared to assist you in finding effective coping skills and strategies, aid you in connecting with your own story and developing a renewed sense of self growth. With a background in art therapy, I believe that using creativity and artistic expression can be helpful for clients to gain new perspectives and find connection with themselves and others. Through an integrative approach, I aim to facilitate a brave, supportive space for you to develop a secure sense of self.
I’ve primarily worked with teens and adults in addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, grief and loss, relationship challenges, new transitions, and challenges at school.
It's a privilege to walk alongside clients and meet them where they're at by developing a trusting, consistent relationship. I am prepared to assist you in finding effective coping skills and strategies, aid you in connecting with your own story and developing a renewed sense of self growth. With a background in art therapy, I believe that using creativity and artistic expression can be helpful for clients to gain new perspectives and find connection with themselves and others. Through an integrative approach, I aim to facilitate a brave, supportive space for you to develop a secure sense of self.
(224) 504-0930 View (224) 504-0930
Photo of Sonya Morgan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake County, IL
Sonya Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
Hello and welcome! I'm Sonya and I'm so glad you're here. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and I work with children, adolescents, and adults. Prior to launching Morgan Counseling Group PLLC in 2020, I had worked as a social worker in several Chicagoland schools. I have extensive experience with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), 504 Education Plans, special education services, and navigating the school environment. My treatment background includes anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, social skills, relationships, behavioral concerns, transitions, self-esteem, grief/loss, and identity awareness.
Hello and welcome! I'm Sonya and I'm so glad you're here. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and I work with children, adolescents, and adults. Prior to launching Morgan Counseling Group PLLC in 2020, I had worked as a social worker in several Chicagoland schools. I have extensive experience with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), 504 Education Plans, special education services, and navigating the school environment. My treatment background includes anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, social skills, relationships, behavioral concerns, transitions, self-esteem, grief/loss, and identity awareness.
(224) 268-0254 View (224) 268-0254
Photo of Carol Paxton Cox, Psychologist in Lake County, IL
Carol Paxton Cox
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Grayslake, IL 60030  (Online Only)
My primary goal is to help clients find the hope and courage to change and heal. I believe that all life circumstances, relationships, and experiences can lead to change and greater self-acceptance. Ultimately therapy helps clients cope with loss and use difficult life transitions to promote growth. In working with individuals, couples, families, and children, I have helped them cultivate resources and develop strengths from very challenging diagnoses and life circumstances. I have helped clients suffering from relationship conflicts, health crises, depression, trauma and loss issues, compulsive behaviors, and anxiety disorders.
My primary goal is to help clients find the hope and courage to change and heal. I believe that all life circumstances, relationships, and experiences can lead to change and greater self-acceptance. Ultimately therapy helps clients cope with loss and use difficult life transitions to promote growth. In working with individuals, couples, families, and children, I have helped them cultivate resources and develop strengths from very challenging diagnoses and life circumstances. I have helped clients suffering from relationship conflicts, health crises, depression, trauma and loss issues, compulsive behaviors, and anxiety disorders.
(847) 868-3945 View (847) 868-3945
Photo of Libertyville Counseling Group, Psychologist in Lake County, IL
Libertyville Counseling Group
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
We are a multi-disciplinary group private practice located in Libertyville, Illinois. We have highly trained clinicians with many years of experience and a genuine passion for our work. Our many specialties range from managing every day stress to coping with trauma, loss, emotional disorders and behavioral problems in children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
We are a multi-disciplinary group private practice located in Libertyville, Illinois. We have highly trained clinicians with many years of experience and a genuine passion for our work. Our many specialties range from managing every day stress to coping with trauma, loss, emotional disorders and behavioral problems in children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
(224) 412-3578 View (224) 412-3578
Photo of Samantha Parker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lake County, IL
Samantha Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Her clinical interests include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, people recovering from past traumas, those who are facing changes in life stage, grief and loss, and people who are looking for guidance in finding their true self.
Samantha completed her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Capella University. She has experience working with individuals dealing with numerous psychological illnesses. She has spent the last twenty-two years working at Catholic Charities Older Adult Services in Chicago. Samantha also has experience providing individual, group, couples and family therapy in a private practice setting. She strives to help clients overcome emotional challenges by utilizing evidence-based therapies that are tailored to meet clients’ in individual needs.
Her clinical interests include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, people recovering from past traumas, those who are facing changes in life stage, grief and loss, and people who are looking for guidance in finding their true self.
Samantha completed her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Capella University. She has experience working with individuals dealing with numerous psychological illnesses. She has spent the last twenty-two years working at Catholic Charities Older Adult Services in Chicago. Samantha also has experience providing individual, group, couples and family therapy in a private practice setting. She strives to help clients overcome emotional challenges by utilizing evidence-based therapies that are tailored to meet clients’ in individual needs.
(847) 503-9740 View (847) 503-9740
Photo of Denise Casey, Psychologist in Lake County, IL
Denise Casey
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC, NBCCHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Casey has traveled with people from all walks of life to deal with interventions, addiction recovery, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, childhood trauma, loss & grief, sexual abuse, women's issues and codependency.
HOPE, HELP, HEALING. Dr. Casey would best describe her intentions for her clients in one word "Transformation". As founder of Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness, she has created a "home" for people where growth and healing are possible. Her own journey has taught her as much as the diplomas on her wall and the credentials behind her name. She was on staff at Lutheran General Hospital and taught at Northeastern IL University. She is trained as a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Certified Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor, is versed in Hypnotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She is also an Employee Assistance Provider.
Casey has traveled with people from all walks of life to deal with interventions, addiction recovery, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, childhood trauma, loss & grief, sexual abuse, women's issues and codependency.
HOPE, HELP, HEALING. Dr. Casey would best describe her intentions for her clients in one word "Transformation". As founder of Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness, she has created a "home" for people where growth and healing are possible. Her own journey has taught her as much as the diplomas on her wall and the credentials behind her name. She was on staff at Lutheran General Hospital and taught at Northeastern IL University. She is trained as a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Certified Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor, is versed in Hypnotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She is also an Employee Assistance Provider.
(888) 265-6418 View (888) 265-6418
Photo of Adam Crane, Psychologist in Lake County, IL
Adam Crane
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
In medical settings, I conduct psychological assessments for weight loss surgery and spinal cord stimulator surgery.
By forming a comfortable and personal connection with my clients, it is my intention to help explore and offer new perspectives on issues that might otherwise feel frustrating or limiting. Together, we can work to forge new styles of thinking and feeling that can open up solutions to existing problems. My practice is dedicated to helping any client who has the desire to build a stronger, more insightful sense of self.
In medical settings, I conduct psychological assessments for weight loss surgery and spinal cord stimulator surgery.
By forming a comfortable and personal connection with my clients, it is my intention to help explore and offer new perspectives on issues that might otherwise feel frustrating or limiting. Together, we can work to forge new styles of thinking and feeling that can open up solutions to existing problems. My practice is dedicated to helping any client who has the desire to build a stronger, more insightful sense of self.
(847) 505-0003 View (847) 505-0003
Photo of Carolyn Bulmash, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake County, IL
Carolyn Bulmash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
Sometimes, we feel stuck in life and don't know what we can do to move forward. I work with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, loneliness, grief, loss and relationship dissatisfaction. I often work with, and welcome, individuals who struggled to find benefit in previous attempts at therapy. Individuals managing a beloved pets illness or loss are also a welcomed part of my practice. I enjoy working with college students to retirees who seek greater understanding of how their moods and behaviors developed, and why their current coping strategies may no longer feel useful.
Sometimes, we feel stuck in life and don't know what we can do to move forward. I work with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, loneliness, grief, loss and relationship dissatisfaction. I often work with, and welcome, individuals who struggled to find benefit in previous attempts at therapy. Individuals managing a beloved pets illness or loss are also a welcomed part of my practice. I enjoy working with college students to retirees who seek greater understanding of how their moods and behaviors developed, and why their current coping strategies may no longer feel useful.
(847) 915-4363 View (847) 915-4363
Photo of Brooke Carson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake County, IL
Brooke Carson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Grove, IL 60047
I have a long history of helping people make changes that lead to significant improvement in self-regard and the ability to function and thrive. One of my favorite aspects of being a therapist is the genuine, experience-based optimism that my practice history allows me to bring to meeting with clients. I enjoy working with clients of all ages with a variety of presenting issues including self-esteem and life struggles such as relationship conflicts, grief, loss and transitions such as divorce. I also enjoy helping people with depression, anxiety disorders (including panic disorder, phobias, and PTSD), and ADHD.
I have a long history of helping people make changes that lead to significant improvement in self-regard and the ability to function and thrive. One of my favorite aspects of being a therapist is the genuine, experience-based optimism that my practice history allows me to bring to meeting with clients. I enjoy working with clients of all ages with a variety of presenting issues including self-esteem and life struggles such as relationship conflicts, grief, loss and transitions such as divorce. I also enjoy helping people with depression, anxiety disorders (including panic disorder, phobias, and PTSD), and ADHD.
(847) 558-1839 View (847) 558-1839
Photo of 360 Degrees Wellness and Coaching, Counselor in Lake County, IL
360 Degrees Wellness and Coaching
Counselor, LCSW, LCPC, MSW, CRADC, CADC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
We are a group of board certified psychotherapists and executive coaches specializing in behavioral health. Our highly experienced staff averages more than 18 years experience in their respective fields: Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Solution- Focused, Collaborative and Health-Oriented Therapies. We can help you with: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Low self-esteem, Postpartum depression, Martial or family issues, School problems, Parenting issues, Chronic pain, Grief, Trauma and managing negative feelings.
We are a group of board certified psychotherapists and executive coaches specializing in behavioral health. Our highly experienced staff averages more than 18 years experience in their respective fields: Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Solution- Focused, Collaborative and Health-Oriented Therapies. We can help you with: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Low self-esteem, Postpartum depression, Martial or family issues, School problems, Parenting issues, Chronic pain, Grief, Trauma and managing negative feelings.
(847) 807-1012 View (847) 807-1012

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.