Photo of Sheila Harris-Fitzpatrick, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Palos Heights, IL
Sheila Harris-Fitzpatrick
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, DCC, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Palos Heights, IL 60463
I lost my dad, husband, became an empty nester and changed jobs all in the same year and so I know a lot about grief, transitions and regaining energy in recovery.
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE! Get counseling without going out. I specialized in remote online counseling. I have immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. My passion is working with individuals relating to grief and other life transitions; which include, employment exit strategies, career decisions while identifying gifts and talents, finding your life calling and coaching through life altering events. I am a excellent couples counselor and whether you are preparing for marriage or married, I can help you become better communicators and partners for life.
I lost my dad, husband, became an empty nester and changed jobs all in the same year and so I know a lot about grief, transitions and regaining energy in recovery.
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE! Get counseling without going out. I specialized in remote online counseling. I have immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. My passion is working with individuals relating to grief and other life transitions; which include, employment exit strategies, career decisions while identifying gifts and talents, finding your life calling and coaching through life altering events. I am a excellent couples counselor and whether you are preparing for marriage or married, I can help you become better communicators and partners for life.
(630) 491-4239 View (630) 491-4239
Photo of Denise Ann Jabaay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Palos Heights, IL
Denise Ann Jabaay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palos Heights, IL 60463
My areas of expertise includes, but are not limited to, chronic Illness, grief and loss, anxiety/depression, general stress management and crises intervention.
Whether you are wanting to work through a crises or feeling overwhelmed and seeking clarity, finding a compassionate therapist that works along with you is key. My approach to therapy starts from a strengths-based approach integrating using proven strategies (CBT/ mindfulness techniques) tailored to my individual clients needs and goals. I have had the privilege working with people from diverse backgrounds and ages in the field of mental health.
My areas of expertise includes, but are not limited to, chronic Illness, grief and loss, anxiety/depression, general stress management and crises intervention.
Whether you are wanting to work through a crises or feeling overwhelmed and seeking clarity, finding a compassionate therapist that works along with you is key. My approach to therapy starts from a strengths-based approach integrating using proven strategies (CBT/ mindfulness techniques) tailored to my individual clients needs and goals. I have had the privilege working with people from diverse backgrounds and ages in the field of mental health.
(779) 243-5189 View (779) 243-5189
Photo of Shannon Mannix Services Inc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Palos Heights, IL
Shannon Mannix Services Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, type 73
Verified Verified
Palos Heights, IL 60463
Ms. Mannix's clinical practice focuses on providing cognitive behavioral therapy to children, adolescents & adults. Ms. Mannix also provides family therapy to clients of all ages. She has worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults who have Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral Problems & ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Autism, Divorce, Grief and loss, family conflicts, learning difficulties, school concerns. Ms. Mannix focuses on post traumatic stress, relational/behavioral problems in children, school difficulties, adolescences and adults as well. Ms. Mannix is also a strong advocate for persons with disabilities.
Ms. Mannix's clinical practice focuses on providing cognitive behavioral therapy to children, adolescents & adults. Ms. Mannix also provides family therapy to clients of all ages. She has worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults who have Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral Problems & ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Autism, Divorce, Grief and loss, family conflicts, learning difficulties, school concerns. Ms. Mannix focuses on post traumatic stress, relational/behavioral problems in children, school difficulties, adolescences and adults as well. Ms. Mannix is also a strong advocate for persons with disabilities.
(708) 315-6302 View (708) 315-6302
Photo of Jesse L Munoz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Palos Heights, IL
Jesse L Munoz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palos Heights, IL 60463  (Online Only)
Let's start with honoring life... Due to my extensive background and years of professional experience, I am comfortable working with children, youth, adults, couples, and families. I started my training/experience with children and continued servicing all ages. I have worked in many venues of service: mental health, medical, educational, hospice, trauma, supervisory, administrative... providing services to people facing situations that are unknown or a challenge to them. Depression, anxiety (and all the features associated with these two diagnostics), as well as relational and other life issues, are areas that I service.
Let's start with honoring life... Due to my extensive background and years of professional experience, I am comfortable working with children, youth, adults, couples, and families. I started my training/experience with children and continued servicing all ages. I have worked in many venues of service: mental health, medical, educational, hospice, trauma, supervisory, administrative... providing services to people facing situations that are unknown or a challenge to them. Depression, anxiety (and all the features associated with these two diagnostics), as well as relational and other life issues, are areas that I service.
(708) 689-4434 View (708) 689-4434
Photo of Laurie Siegel, Counselor in Palos Heights, IL
Laurie Siegel
Counselor, LCPC, MA, CADC, MISAII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Heights, IL 60463
"Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions." I believe I can assist you in your life's journey to achieve happiness! Through counseling, we can explore ways for you to achieve your personal vision of happiness. Together, we will create goals, develop strategies, and develop a life plan that works for you. I will assist you on building a balanced lifestyle, which would lead to emotional wellness. In addition, as part of your treatment plan, I will utilize relaxation training and cognitive behavioral treatment strategies.
"Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions." I believe I can assist you in your life's journey to achieve happiness! Through counseling, we can explore ways for you to achieve your personal vision of happiness. Together, we will create goals, develop strategies, and develop a life plan that works for you. I will assist you on building a balanced lifestyle, which would lead to emotional wellness. In addition, as part of your treatment plan, I will utilize relaxation training and cognitive behavioral treatment strategies.
(708) 765-6140 View (708) 765-6140
Photo of Jonathan Miskevics, Counselor in Palos Heights, IL
Jonathan Miskevics
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Heights, IL 60463
As a therapist I believe that each person needs something different. Sometimes someone needs someone to talk to and bounce ideas off, some need concrete steps to improve parts of their life, others need to explore their past and connect it to their present. I can help people learn coping skills, challenging negative or self-destructive thoughts, and learn what their triggers are and why they have them. I encourage mindfulness practices and self-acceptance. I work with a lot of people with anxiety, depression, and relationship issues often caused by anxiety or other issues.
As a therapist I believe that each person needs something different. Sometimes someone needs someone to talk to and bounce ideas off, some need concrete steps to improve parts of their life, others need to explore their past and connect it to their present. I can help people learn coping skills, challenging negative or self-destructive thoughts, and learn what their triggers are and why they have them. I encourage mindfulness practices and self-acceptance. I work with a lot of people with anxiety, depression, and relationship issues often caused by anxiety or other issues.
(708) 398-9215 View (708) 398-9215
Photo of Troy Westercamp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Palos Heights, IL
Troy Westercamp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Palos Heights, IL 60463
In my work with individuals and couples many of my clients tell me that I have a warm and interpersonal approach. I help them feel comfortable and take a very collaborative approach. In marriage counseling, I try to help couples prioritize their marriage and work to help both of them feel more heard and understood as a person. I am passionate about helping people develop healthy relationships, achieve personal growth and experience emotional wholeness. It is my goal to bring hope, guidance, and a safe place for individuals or couples to explore the nature their challenges.
In my work with individuals and couples many of my clients tell me that I have a warm and interpersonal approach. I help them feel comfortable and take a very collaborative approach. In marriage counseling, I try to help couples prioritize their marriage and work to help both of them feel more heard and understood as a person. I am passionate about helping people develop healthy relationships, achieve personal growth and experience emotional wholeness. It is my goal to bring hope, guidance, and a safe place for individuals or couples to explore the nature their challenges.
(815) 254-7535 x27 View (815) 254-7535 x27
Photo of Carolyn Guerra Burns, Psychologist in Palos Heights, IL
Carolyn Guerra Burns
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palos Heights, IL 60463
Many years ago, French Philosopher Albert Camus wrote, "In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer and that makes me happy. For it says that no matter how hard the world pushes against me, within me, there's something stronger, something better, pushing right back". I believe therapy is an opportunity to find your invincible summer, the something stronger that resides within. Emotional pain is real, sometimes overwhelming, even paralyzing. Therapy is a safe place where we explore what's not working for you and together find solutions and make adjustments to restore balance and tranquility.
Many years ago, French Philosopher Albert Camus wrote, "In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer and that makes me happy. For it says that no matter how hard the world pushes against me, within me, there's something stronger, something better, pushing right back". I believe therapy is an opportunity to find your invincible summer, the something stronger that resides within. Emotional pain is real, sometimes overwhelming, even paralyzing. Therapy is a safe place where we explore what's not working for you and together find solutions and make adjustments to restore balance and tranquility.
(708) 315-6113 View (708) 315-6113
Photo of Susan Ryan-Michalak, Counselor in Palos Heights, IL
Susan Ryan-Michalak
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, LBSI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Heights, IL 60463
Telehealth/ Video Counseling now offered. Are you in need to talk to someone right now? I'm here. I AM PASSIONATE about HELPING others with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, divorce, and life changing events. Are you going through something new, a life changing event that happened or something you have been struggling with for awhile? My goal is to facilitate clients to reach THEIR GOALS in a safe, respectful, non-judgmental environment. I believe everyone can achieve the success they want and feel better. You don't have to do it alone. I am fully trained with many techniques and experience to get you where you want to be.
Telehealth/ Video Counseling now offered. Are you in need to talk to someone right now? I'm here. I AM PASSIONATE about HELPING others with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, divorce, and life changing events. Are you going through something new, a life changing event that happened or something you have been struggling with for awhile? My goal is to facilitate clients to reach THEIR GOALS in a safe, respectful, non-judgmental environment. I believe everyone can achieve the success they want and feel better. You don't have to do it alone. I am fully trained with many techniques and experience to get you where you want to be.
(773) 796-4048 View (773) 796-4048
Photo of Elizabeth Carol Frantz, Counselor in Palos Heights, IL
Elizabeth Carol Frantz
Counselor, MA, LCPC, AAT
Verified Verified
Palos Heights, IL 60463
Elizabeth is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with a Master’s in counseling from Saint Xavier University. Elizabeth received a certification in Animal Assisted Therapy from Oakland University and is also a registered handler through Pet Partners. Elizabeth has experience working with mild to severe mental illness, as well as children and adults with developmental disabilities in outpatient settings. Elizabeth has worked in Community Agencies as a Mental Health Counselor, providing individual, group, couples and family counseling. Elizabeth also has a background in animal training, enrichment and rescue.
Elizabeth is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with a Master’s in counseling from Saint Xavier University. Elizabeth received a certification in Animal Assisted Therapy from Oakland University and is also a registered handler through Pet Partners. Elizabeth has experience working with mild to severe mental illness, as well as children and adults with developmental disabilities in outpatient settings. Elizabeth has worked in Community Agencies as a Mental Health Counselor, providing individual, group, couples and family counseling. Elizabeth also has a background in animal training, enrichment and rescue.
(708) 942-8271 View (708) 942-8271
Photo of Mona Etchison, Psychologist in Palos Heights, IL
Mona Etchison
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palos Heights, IL 60463
Not accepting new clients
Life is full of changes. At times the changes are unexpected and difficult to manage. At other times the change is not happening fast enough or the direction is not clear. Therapy can be the catalyst that redirects and improves the course of your life. Your story is unique. Together we will explore what is holding you back and find the tools that are effective for you.
Life is full of changes. At times the changes are unexpected and difficult to manage. At other times the change is not happening fast enough or the direction is not clear. Therapy can be the catalyst that redirects and improves the course of your life. Your story is unique. Together we will explore what is holding you back and find the tools that are effective for you.
(708) 808-4273 View (708) 808-4273

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tracey Kim Snow, Counselor in Palos Heights, IL
Tracey Kim Snow
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LFT, RMT, CFT
Verified Verified
Homer Glen, IL 60491
I have multiple specialties including; adult and womens' issues, grief and bereavement, family and couples counseling, anxiety and depression, bipolar, positive psychology, spirituality and mindfulness, child and adolescent counseling, young adults, divorce and life transitions, self esteem, parenting, blended families, caregivers, self care, personal coaching and empowerment, trauma, addiction & recovery.
Counseling is my calling. I feel honored to play a role in assisting people to overcome obstacles and to become the person that they always felt was possible. I am hear to guide people on their journey of self discovery while also providing the skills and tools necessary to overcome what ever challenges life has brought their way. I truly love what I do and provide caring acceptance and support to my clients. I am proud to say that my biggest referral base is former clients and I could not ask for a biggest compliment. Looking forward to helping you.
I have multiple specialties including; adult and womens' issues, grief and bereavement, family and couples counseling, anxiety and depression, bipolar, positive psychology, spirituality and mindfulness, child and adolescent counseling, young adults, divorce and life transitions, self esteem, parenting, blended families, caregivers, self care, personal coaching and empowerment, trauma, addiction & recovery.
Counseling is my calling. I feel honored to play a role in assisting people to overcome obstacles and to become the person that they always felt was possible. I am hear to guide people on their journey of self discovery while also providing the skills and tools necessary to overcome what ever challenges life has brought their way. I truly love what I do and provide caring acceptance and support to my clients. I am proud to say that my biggest referral base is former clients and I could not ask for a biggest compliment. Looking forward to helping you.
(708) 265-3858 View (708) 265-3858
Photo of Cherie Barnes: Grief Coach-Counselor, Counselor in Palos Heights, IL
Cherie Barnes: Grief Coach-Counselor
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evergreen Park, IL 60805
As a grief counselor, I help women who have experienced grief in their lives and now want to move past the loss. I understand that grief is a unique and individual experience, and I strive to provide a safe and supportive space for clients to express their feelings and explore the healing process. My approach to counseling is centered on compassion, understanding, and respect for the individual. I am a firm believer in the power of human connection, and I work with my clients to foster an environment of understanding and trust. I have extensive experience working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, and I am passionate.
As a grief counselor, I help women who have experienced grief in their lives and now want to move past the loss. I understand that grief is a unique and individual experience, and I strive to provide a safe and supportive space for clients to express their feelings and explore the healing process. My approach to counseling is centered on compassion, understanding, and respect for the individual. I am a firm believer in the power of human connection, and I work with my clients to foster an environment of understanding and trust. I have extensive experience working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, and I am passionate.
(872) 395-4664 View (872) 395-4664
Photo of Daffaney Burnside, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Palos Heights, IL
Daffaney Burnside
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60620  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when help is wanted and needed from a certified professional to cope with many of life’s challenges.
I am a individual and family therapist licensed in Illinois with over 5 years of experience working as a psychotherapist in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I have specialized experience working in residential based treatment providing long term care-treatment as well as short term crisis outpatient-field work. I have worked with clients with a range of concerns and diagnoses including depression, anxiety, parenting problems, abandonment issues, grief and loss, trauma, mood disorders, etc. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I meet my clients where they are using therapeutic approaches that will better meet their needs.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when help is wanted and needed from a certified professional to cope with many of life’s challenges.
I am a individual and family therapist licensed in Illinois with over 5 years of experience working as a psychotherapist in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I have specialized experience working in residential based treatment providing long term care-treatment as well as short term crisis outpatient-field work. I have worked with clients with a range of concerns and diagnoses including depression, anxiety, parenting problems, abandonment issues, grief and loss, trauma, mood disorders, etc. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I meet my clients where they are using therapeutic approaches that will better meet their needs.
(815) 569-5676 View (815) 569-5676
Photo of Blakely Counseling Services, Inc., Counselor in Palos Heights, IL
Blakely Counseling Services, Inc.
Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
Dr. Colette Blakely, LCPC, is the Director of BLAKELY Counseling Services. She has been active in the counseling field for the past 22+ years. Dr. Blakely works with adults, teens, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, lifestyle concerns, grief, and other mental health concerns. She is certified as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois. She has her terminal degree from Regent University in Counseling and Psychology; she also holds a master's degree in School Counseling from Concordia University and is certified as a School Counselor. Her professional affiliations include the National Certified Counseling, the American Counseling Association, and the American School Counselor Association.
Dr. Colette Blakely, LCPC, is the Director of BLAKELY Counseling Services. She has been active in the counseling field for the past 22+ years. Dr. Blakely works with adults, teens, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, lifestyle concerns, grief, and other mental health concerns. She is certified as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois. She has her terminal degree from Regent University in Counseling and Psychology; she also holds a master's degree in School Counseling from Concordia University and is certified as a School Counselor. Her professional affiliations include the National Certified Counseling, the American Counseling Association, and the American School Counselor Association.
(312) 313-3462 View (312) 313-3462
Photo of Dr. Lynetta Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Palos Heights, IL
Dr. Lynetta Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Calumet Park, IL 60643  (Online Only)
I am excited to assist you on your journey toward total healing. The death of a loved one, job loss, and past trauma can diminish your ability to move forward. I will respectfully meet you where you are without judgment and provide you with a safe place to release your anger, frustration, and pain using Solution Focused modalities and other approaches to help you navigate this journey called life. I believe there is hope as long as there is breath, and I would love to work with you to strengthen your motivation to grow and increase your self-esteem.
I am excited to assist you on your journey toward total healing. The death of a loved one, job loss, and past trauma can diminish your ability to move forward. I will respectfully meet you where you are without judgment and provide you with a safe place to release your anger, frustration, and pain using Solution Focused modalities and other approaches to help you navigate this journey called life. I believe there is hope as long as there is breath, and I would love to work with you to strengthen your motivation to grow and increase your self-esteem.
(312) 586-1540 View (312) 586-1540
Photo of Family Strategies, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palos Heights, IL
Family Strategies
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Homewood, IL 60430
I offer a place where your voice will be heard. A compassionate and confidential atmosphere to discuss personal concerns. I specialized in therapeutic assistance to anyone,from all backgrounds, ages, and walks of life (families, individuals, children and teens) who are encountering adjustment problems or experiencing psychological emotional distress, such as loss, grief, sexual trauma and crisis, depression, anxiety and PTSD.
I offer a place where your voice will be heard. A compassionate and confidential atmosphere to discuss personal concerns. I specialized in therapeutic assistance to anyone,from all backgrounds, ages, and walks of life (families, individuals, children and teens) who are encountering adjustment problems or experiencing psychological emotional distress, such as loss, grief, sexual trauma and crisis, depression, anxiety and PTSD.
(708) 340-7033 x3 View (708) 340-7033 x3
Photo of Morgan Black, Licensed Professional Counselor in Palos Heights, IL
Morgan Black
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
I received a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and have been practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor for seven years. I enjoy working with children and adolescents ages 5-18, adults and families experiencing difficulty with anxiety, depression, mood concerns, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions, and issues with self-esteem. I also have experience working with individuals diagnosed with ADD/ADHD and Autism Spectrum. I believe in understanding and treating the whole person and creating an open, safe and empathic space to explore and work toward the changes you desire.
I received a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and have been practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor for seven years. I enjoy working with children and adolescents ages 5-18, adults and families experiencing difficulty with anxiety, depression, mood concerns, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions, and issues with self-esteem. I also have experience working with individuals diagnosed with ADD/ADHD and Autism Spectrum. I believe in understanding and treating the whole person and creating an open, safe and empathic space to explore and work toward the changes you desire.
(708) 377-2880 View (708) 377-2880
Photo of Emily Lapetino, Counselor in Palos Heights, IL
Emily Lapetino
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60620
I've worked extensively with depression, anxiety, relational conflict, trauma, womens' issues, life transitions, and grief and loss.
Sometimes life is just overwhelming and hard. Whether you're experiencing a major life change or feel stuck where you are, therapy is an opportunity to increase your capacity to grow, change, and experience healing. I will work alongside you to find ways to cope with difficulty and experience greater life fulfillment.
I've worked extensively with depression, anxiety, relational conflict, trauma, womens' issues, life transitions, and grief and loss.
Sometimes life is just overwhelming and hard. Whether you're experiencing a major life change or feel stuck where you are, therapy is an opportunity to increase your capacity to grow, change, and experience healing. I will work alongside you to find ways to cope with difficulty and experience greater life fulfillment.
(773) 358-1694 View (773) 358-1694
Photo of Stephanie Taylor, Counselor in Palos Heights, IL
Stephanie Taylor
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evergreen Park, IL 60805
It take tremendous courage to change. My ideal client is someone who is courageously facing life's challenges and seeking meaningful growth. You may be grappling with complex or childhood trauma, grief, troubled relationships, work-related stress, addiction, or difficulties resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. You desire a brighter future and a sense of connection and belonging. My intention is to empower you, offering dedicated guidance and support on your transformative journey towards renewed strength and purposeful living. Together, we will navigate the depths of suffering to discover your inner resilience and fulfillment.
It take tremendous courage to change. My ideal client is someone who is courageously facing life's challenges and seeking meaningful growth. You may be grappling with complex or childhood trauma, grief, troubled relationships, work-related stress, addiction, or difficulties resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. You desire a brighter future and a sense of connection and belonging. My intention is to empower you, offering dedicated guidance and support on your transformative journey towards renewed strength and purposeful living. Together, we will navigate the depths of suffering to discover your inner resilience and fulfillment.
(773) 345-9715 View (773) 345-9715

See more therapy options for Palos Heights

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.