Photo of Brittany Gerard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Northbrook, IL
Brittany Gerard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
Brittany’s clinical interests include: eating disorders, grief, trauma, anxiety disorders, depression and other mood disorders, executive functioning, school and academic issues, identity development, relationship difficulties, communication, stress management, self-esteem challenges, behavioral challenges, divorce, family conflict, as well as social skills.
Finding the right therapist for your needs can be anxiety-provoking. I want to make it easier for you. I value building a strong sense of rapport with you through transparency, validation, and humor. I believe in working together to process your most pressing challenges, helping you adapt healthy coping behaviors that allow you to not only live a life you love, but one where you thrive.
Brittany’s clinical interests include: eating disorders, grief, trauma, anxiety disorders, depression and other mood disorders, executive functioning, school and academic issues, identity development, relationship difficulties, communication, stress management, self-esteem challenges, behavioral challenges, divorce, family conflict, as well as social skills.
Finding the right therapist for your needs can be anxiety-provoking. I want to make it easier for you. I value building a strong sense of rapport with you through transparency, validation, and humor. I believe in working together to process your most pressing challenges, helping you adapt healthy coping behaviors that allow you to not only live a life you love, but one where you thrive.
(224) 723-5772 View (224) 723-5772
Photo of M Penny Levin, Psychologist in Northbrook, IL
M Penny Levin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
Empathetic, but effective, Dr. Penny Levin is a clinician with more than 25 years of experience who is uniquely qualified to help you through a host of stressful situations. Dr. Levin is a psychologist and a personal trainer/nutrition specialist, Her understanding of the mind and body allow her to assist people grieving the loss of a loved one, professionals concerned with work-life balance or experiencing burnout, athletes struggling with injury or illness, and anyone simply trying to manage day-to-day stress. She has particular expertise dealing with infertility, maternal loss and Assisted Reproductive Technology.
Empathetic, but effective, Dr. Penny Levin is a clinician with more than 25 years of experience who is uniquely qualified to help you through a host of stressful situations. Dr. Levin is a psychologist and a personal trainer/nutrition specialist, Her understanding of the mind and body allow her to assist people grieving the loss of a loved one, professionals concerned with work-life balance or experiencing burnout, athletes struggling with injury or illness, and anyone simply trying to manage day-to-day stress. She has particular expertise dealing with infertility, maternal loss and Assisted Reproductive Technology.
(312) 548-6536 View (312) 548-6536
Photo of Ashley Beth Plotnick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northbrook, IL
Ashley Beth Plotnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd, MAJS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
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 Laurie Longfield, Counselor in Northbrook, IL
Laurie Longfield
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
I work with clients experiencing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, work & family stressors, marital problems, life transitions, trauma, grief and offer a parent evidence based treatment program through SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) for children with anxiety and OCD developed at the Yale Child Study Center.
Are you feeling unbalanced? Being here is the first step to start your journey to find balance through a non judgmental therapeutic relationship that offers empathy, validation, support, psychoeducation and even a challenge if you are up to that. We will explore together solutions for change and growth through learning tools to help recognize situations out of your control. I am committed to fostering a safe and motivating environment for you to grow.
I work with clients experiencing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, work & family stressors, marital problems, life transitions, trauma, grief and offer a parent evidence based treatment program through SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) for children with anxiety and OCD developed at the Yale Child Study Center.
Are you feeling unbalanced? Being here is the first step to start your journey to find balance through a non judgmental therapeutic relationship that offers empathy, validation, support, psychoeducation and even a challenge if you are up to that. We will explore together solutions for change and growth through learning tools to help recognize situations out of your control. I am committed to fostering a safe and motivating environment for you to grow.
(224) 243-3201 View (224) 243-3201
Photo of Amy Edelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northbrook, IL
Amy Edelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062  (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 x7 View (224) 208-1186 x7
Photo of Deb Wojcik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northbrook, IL
Deb Wojcik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
I offer comfort, counsel and clarity to individuals and families facing medical illness, grief, loss and bereavement, and/or life transitions. Companioning folks on these journeys allows me to help them lessen their sense of isolation, to help identify and utilize their strengths, and to manage difficult emotions. Frequently clients are overwhelmed and need help sorting through stressful feelings and situations. Once that is accomplished, much progress is made. In life transitions, identifying and touching the emotions and then re-establishing a life-plan are often the primary goals, crafted to the client's unique needs.
I offer comfort, counsel and clarity to individuals and families facing medical illness, grief, loss and bereavement, and/or life transitions. Companioning folks on these journeys allows me to help them lessen their sense of isolation, to help identify and utilize their strengths, and to manage difficult emotions. Frequently clients are overwhelmed and need help sorting through stressful feelings and situations. Once that is accomplished, much progress is made. In life transitions, identifying and touching the emotions and then re-establishing a life-plan are often the primary goals, crafted to the client's unique needs.
(312) 380-0766 View (312) 380-0766
Photo of Jen Kaplan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northbrook, IL
Jen Kaplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, EMDR, CCTP
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I have over 20 years of experience working with a range of mental and emotional challenges with a particular focus on trauma, grief and loss, anxiety and depression.
Welcome to Open Heart Clear Mind Therapy, a safe haven where every story is acknowledged, every pain validated, and every triumph applauded. I strive to genuinely understand and share in the emotions and experiences of my clients. I am dedicated to creating a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and mutual respect, where clients can feel heard, valued, and empowered to navigate life's difficulties. Together, we will embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and personal growth.
I have over 20 years of experience working with a range of mental and emotional challenges with a particular focus on trauma, grief and loss, anxiety and depression.
Welcome to Open Heart Clear Mind Therapy, a safe haven where every story is acknowledged, every pain validated, and every triumph applauded. I strive to genuinely understand and share in the emotions and experiences of my clients. I am dedicated to creating a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and mutual respect, where clients can feel heard, valued, and empowered to navigate life's difficulties. Together, we will embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and personal growth.
(847) 315-0220 View (847) 315-0220
Photo of Michael Chapman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Northbrook, IL
Michael Chapman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
Michael’s clinical interests include: grief/loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, agoraphobia, school issues, identity development, relationship difficulties, communication, stress management, self-esteem, behavioral challenges, life transitions, divorce, family conflict, personality disorders, and social skills.
I'm here to guide you when you are ready. I value a truly collaborative approach that allows you to take ownership of your treatment. I believe in the importance of creating a therapeutic space where you can show up as your authentic selves and be open.
Michael’s clinical interests include: grief/loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, agoraphobia, school issues, identity development, relationship difficulties, communication, stress management, self-esteem, behavioral challenges, life transitions, divorce, family conflict, personality disorders, and social skills.
I'm here to guide you when you are ready. I value a truly collaborative approach that allows you to take ownership of your treatment. I believe in the importance of creating a therapeutic space where you can show up as your authentic selves and be open.
(224) 723-5772 View (224) 723-5772
Photo of Julie Novak, Psychologist in Northbrook, IL
Julie Novak
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I am a dedicated and experienced psychologist with many years working with anxiety, depression, marital issues, infertility, grief and loss.
"Courage doesn't always roar, sometimes it is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying I will try again tomorrow." Are you feeling down, overwhelmed by stress and worry? Do you find that you are constantly thinking about the "what ifs" in life? What if I wasn't always so anxious and worried? Do you feel like your goals are out of your reach? Reaching out for helps takes great strength and I invite you to take the courageous first step in your journey to achieve greater happiness and balance in your life. There is hope and you deserve to feel better.
I am a dedicated and experienced psychologist with many years working with anxiety, depression, marital issues, infertility, grief and loss.
"Courage doesn't always roar, sometimes it is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying I will try again tomorrow." Are you feeling down, overwhelmed by stress and worry? Do you find that you are constantly thinking about the "what ifs" in life? What if I wasn't always so anxious and worried? Do you feel like your goals are out of your reach? Reaching out for helps takes great strength and I invite you to take the courageous first step in your journey to achieve greater happiness and balance in your life. There is hope and you deserve to feel better.
(224) 269-7790 View (224) 269-7790
Photo of Jean Rock, Counselor in Northbrook, IL
Jean Rock
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
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 Debra Dubin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northbrook, IL
Debra Dubin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I have worked extensively with depression, anxiety, loss, relationship issues and life transitions.
Individuals seek out therapy to address a wide range of issues and struggles. However, I believe that everyone is looking for a place where they can feel safe and understood. I feel that I am able to provide this environment and that through our relationship, you will uncover your own strengths, develop new understandings, and grow and change in meaningful ways. As a seasoned Clinical Social Worker with over thirty years of experience, I have had the privilege of taking this journey with many others and would love the opportunity to do so with you.
I have worked extensively with depression, anxiety, loss, relationship issues and life transitions.
Individuals seek out therapy to address a wide range of issues and struggles. However, I believe that everyone is looking for a place where they can feel safe and understood. I feel that I am able to provide this environment and that through our relationship, you will uncover your own strengths, develop new understandings, and grow and change in meaningful ways. As a seasoned Clinical Social Worker with over thirty years of experience, I have had the privilege of taking this journey with many others and would love the opportunity to do so with you.
(224) 334-3091 View (224) 334-3091
Photo of Leah Schwartz, Counselor in Northbrook, IL
Leah Schwartz
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
I help individuals who are seeking support related to personal growth, depression, life transitions, anxiety, grief, divorce, stress management and relational concerns.
Whether you are feeling sad, stressed, overwhelmed or seeking treatment for a loved one, my goals is to guide and empower you to achieve the change you desire in your life. I provide individual, and family therapy to adults and adolescents. I strive to create a compassionate environment where treatment is structured to your unique needs.
I help individuals who are seeking support related to personal growth, depression, life transitions, anxiety, grief, divorce, stress management and relational concerns.
Whether you are feeling sad, stressed, overwhelmed or seeking treatment for a loved one, my goals is to guide and empower you to achieve the change you desire in your life. I provide individual, and family therapy to adults and adolescents. I strive to create a compassionate environment where treatment is structured to your unique needs.
(847) 999-4168 View (847) 999-4168
Photo of Ruth E Field, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northbrook, IL
Ruth E Field
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
Life can feel overwhelming when you're faced with loss or change. As much as you try to adjust, it can be scary and confusing to realize that life isn't turning out the way you had planned. Life stress -- such as divorce or relationship loss, death of a loved one, job loss, illness, caregiving -- happens to most of us at some point and it can seem nearly impossible to bounce back from such heartache.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're faced with loss or change. As much as you try to adjust, it can be scary and confusing to realize that life isn't turning out the way you had planned. Life stress -- such as divorce or relationship loss, death of a loved one, job loss, illness, caregiving -- happens to most of us at some point and it can seem nearly impossible to bounce back from such heartache.
(847) 260-9463 View (847) 260-9463
Photo of Mindy Marx, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northbrook, IL
Mindy Marx
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
While I have specialized in treating both eating disorders and trauma for most of my career, I also have a great deal of experience and interest in treating anxiety, depression, grief, adoption related issues and navigating life transitions.
Selecting a Therapist to partner in your journey of self discovery and change is an important decision. I have over 30 years of experience treating adolescents and adults with a wide range of issues. My experience has taught me that people have a great deal of internal wisdom, but sometimes need assistance in accessing and utilizing that information. In 2012 I founded Reflections Psychotherapy: Seeing, Freeing, Being. This name mirrors many aspects of my treatment approach.
While I have specialized in treating both eating disorders and trauma for most of my career, I also have a great deal of experience and interest in treating anxiety, depression, grief, adoption related issues and navigating life transitions.
Selecting a Therapist to partner in your journey of self discovery and change is an important decision. I have over 30 years of experience treating adolescents and adults with a wide range of issues. My experience has taught me that people have a great deal of internal wisdom, but sometimes need assistance in accessing and utilizing that information. In 2012 I founded Reflections Psychotherapy: Seeing, Freeing, Being. This name mirrors many aspects of my treatment approach.
(847) 737-3158 View (847) 737-3158
Photo of Marc Pechter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northbrook, IL
Marc Pechter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I specialize in ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I believe an open and honest therapeutic relationship is the foundation of success in therapy. I work to provide trusting and consistent relationships with clients to explore feelings and develop coping strategies. With 20+ years of experience and training in several modalities of therapy, I provide a safe environment that is designed to help facilitate healing and change. I feel that therapy is a unique partnership that focuses on your personal goals and objectives. My ability to engage individuals in the change process through talk, play, and art therapies contributes to working out long-term solutions.
I specialize in ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I believe an open and honest therapeutic relationship is the foundation of success in therapy. I work to provide trusting and consistent relationships with clients to explore feelings and develop coping strategies. With 20+ years of experience and training in several modalities of therapy, I provide a safe environment that is designed to help facilitate healing and change. I feel that therapy is a unique partnership that focuses on your personal goals and objectives. My ability to engage individuals in the change process through talk, play, and art therapies contributes to working out long-term solutions.
(773) 609-6528 View (773) 609-6528
Photo of Gabriela Raijer, Counselor in Northbrook, IL
Gabriela Raijer
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
Over the last 17 years, I have primarily focused my practice in working with women struggling with trauma, grief, difficult relationships and substance abuse.
Are you ready to take control of your life? Change can be scary, particularly when other forces are bringing you down. Sometimes you wonder if you can truly get out of bad situations or wonder how to even begin the process. Well, it turns out you already have!! By starting your search for a therapist, you have taken the first step to achieve freedom from whatever is holding you back. As an experienced licensed clinician, I would like to have the opportunity to help you take the next step and the one after, so that you can become truly free and happy.
Over the last 17 years, I have primarily focused my practice in working with women struggling with trauma, grief, difficult relationships and substance abuse.
Are you ready to take control of your life? Change can be scary, particularly when other forces are bringing you down. Sometimes you wonder if you can truly get out of bad situations or wonder how to even begin the process. Well, it turns out you already have!! By starting your search for a therapist, you have taken the first step to achieve freedom from whatever is holding you back. As an experienced licensed clinician, I would like to have the opportunity to help you take the next step and the one after, so that you can become truly free and happy.
(872) 401-6043 View (872) 401-6043
Photo of Judy E. Bourn, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Northbrook, IL
Judy E. Bourn
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Are you looking for a highly experienced therapist who can help you navigate life's challenges and work towards creating positive change in your life? Judy specializes in working with clients who have experienced trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, mood disorders, and more. With a warm, compassionate, and collaborative approach, Judy offers a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings, and work towards creating a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Are you looking for a highly experienced therapist who can help you navigate life's challenges and work towards creating positive change in your life? Judy specializes in working with clients who have experienced trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, mood disorders, and more. With a warm, compassionate, and collaborative approach, Judy offers a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings, and work towards creating a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(312) 487-3574 View (312) 487-3574
Photo of Dr. Marissa Kol, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northbrook, IL
Dr. Marissa Kol
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Hi! I’m Dr. Marissa, a trauma, grief and loss specialist for children, teens and families. My background includes 20+ years facilitating group and individual bereavement and trauma supportive services, pediatric medical inpatient and outpatient work with children and families, and individual and family therapy in Private Practice.
Hi! I’m Dr. Marissa, a trauma, grief and loss specialist for children, teens and families. My background includes 20+ years facilitating group and individual bereavement and trauma supportive services, pediatric medical inpatient and outpatient work with children and families, and individual and family therapy in Private Practice.
(224) 487-8811 View (224) 487-8811
Photo of Mark Livshots, Licensed Professional Counselor in Northbrook, IL
Mark Livshots
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
I am a licensed professional counselor who specializes in working with individuals and couples experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, chronic illnesses, grief and loss, and issues relating to meaning and purpose. I have experience working with those diagnosed with cancer and their caregivers, from early diagnosis to end-of-life. I work with adults of all ages, with additional training in working with older adults. Whether it be navigating life transitions like launching, job changes and retirement, or finding meaning and purpose, I utilize a caring and understanding approach in helping my clients find a way forward.
I am a licensed professional counselor who specializes in working with individuals and couples experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, chronic illnesses, grief and loss, and issues relating to meaning and purpose. I have experience working with those diagnosed with cancer and their caregivers, from early diagnosis to end-of-life. I work with adults of all ages, with additional training in working with older adults. Whether it be navigating life transitions like launching, job changes and retirement, or finding meaning and purpose, I utilize a caring and understanding approach in helping my clients find a way forward.
(224) 272-8661 View (224) 272-8661
Photo of Sinda Rosenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northbrook, IL
Sinda Rosenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
The experience of seeing someone shed the weight of grief, loss or a life transition and see them walk back into their world feeling lighter, freer and once again excited to pursue their own personal journey was my core motivation for becoming a social worker.
My life’s journey has allowed me to gain knowledge and experience in many areas. I would be honored to share guidance on a deeper level which is why I received my Master’s in Social Work. My specialties are grief and loss as well as life/career transitions. Grief can take many forms. It can be due to the loss of a loved one, but can also follow from the loss of a job or home, a divorce, loss of a beloved pet, or becoming an empty nester. I can assist with rediscovering a positive future and guide you with redefining who you choose to be in the wake of your loss. Please go to our website to fill out our Google Form for an appt!
The experience of seeing someone shed the weight of grief, loss or a life transition and see them walk back into their world feeling lighter, freer and once again excited to pursue their own personal journey was my core motivation for becoming a social worker.
My life’s journey has allowed me to gain knowledge and experience in many areas. I would be honored to share guidance on a deeper level which is why I received my Master’s in Social Work. My specialties are grief and loss as well as life/career transitions. Grief can take many forms. It can be due to the loss of a loved one, but can also follow from the loss of a job or home, a divorce, loss of a beloved pet, or becoming an empty nester. I can assist with rediscovering a positive future and guide you with redefining who you choose to be in the wake of your loss. Please go to our website to fill out our Google Form for an appt!
(630) 491-4566 View (630) 491-4566

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.