Photo of Caroline Whisman-Blair, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montana
Caroline Whisman-Blair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715  (Online Only)
I am experienced in the treatment of grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, caregiver burden, death/dying and adjustment to chronic/terminal illness.
Are you ready to do a deeper level of work? Maybe you have been to therapy before and still feel stuck in similar patterns. Maybe you have encountered the hardest grief and loss of your life. Maybe you are a therapist yourself and need a container for your own work. I am here to hold a container for you to do your healing work in. I specialize in Somatic Internal Family Systems which is a deeply healing therapy. I would love to talk with you about joining your journey. Licensed to provide individual counseling to folks in Montana, Washington and Colorado.
I am experienced in the treatment of grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, caregiver burden, death/dying and adjustment to chronic/terminal illness.
Are you ready to do a deeper level of work? Maybe you have been to therapy before and still feel stuck in similar patterns. Maybe you have encountered the hardest grief and loss of your life. Maybe you are a therapist yourself and need a container for your own work. I am here to hold a container for you to do your healing work in. I specialize in Somatic Internal Family Systems which is a deeply healing therapy. I would love to talk with you about joining your journey. Licensed to provide individual counseling to folks in Montana, Washington and Colorado.
(406) 412-6576 View (406) 412-6576
Photo of Ashley Browne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montana
Ashley Browne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
Are you looking for a space to create insight and grow interpersonally? Have you experienced loss and are trying to navigate grief, and a new version of normal? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life demands and struggling to find agency? Do you hope for connection and authenticity? I am trained to leverage our innate curiosity in search of the underlying need behind our behaviors. Do we need understanding, to feel worthy, to be understood, to feel valued and accepted? Let's dig into this and make meaning of our feelings.
Are you looking for a space to create insight and grow interpersonally? Have you experienced loss and are trying to navigate grief, and a new version of normal? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life demands and struggling to find agency? Do you hope for connection and authenticity? I am trained to leverage our innate curiosity in search of the underlying need behind our behaviors. Do we need understanding, to feel worthy, to be understood, to feel valued and accepted? Let's dig into this and make meaning of our feelings.
(406) 637-7303 View (406) 637-7303
Photo of Tricia LeQuesne, Counselor in Montana
Tricia LeQuesne
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
I use an integrative traumatic informed approach, which focuses on issues of anxiety, PTSD, traumatic death and grief, and interpersonal relationships.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, anxiety, major life changes and/or relationship stress? Do you struggle with feelings of shame and guilt? My practice is grounded in the belief that everyone has the capacity to heal, achieve fulfillment, and to be fully present to life experience. I believe in the importance of our relationships with others and our connection to the natural world and how this connection can be regulating, helping us achieve freedom from shame, depression, and anxiety. Combining nature based work with somatic techniques can help release traumas stored in the body.
I use an integrative traumatic informed approach, which focuses on issues of anxiety, PTSD, traumatic death and grief, and interpersonal relationships.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, anxiety, major life changes and/or relationship stress? Do you struggle with feelings of shame and guilt? My practice is grounded in the belief that everyone has the capacity to heal, achieve fulfillment, and to be fully present to life experience. I believe in the importance of our relationships with others and our connection to the natural world and how this connection can be regulating, helping us achieve freedom from shame, depression, and anxiety. Combining nature based work with somatic techniques can help release traumas stored in the body.
(406) 623-5418 View (406) 623-5418
Photo of Jessica Stuart, Counselor in Montana
Jessica Stuart
Counselor, MS, LCPC, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
My experience is in working with individuals and couples who struggle with issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, emotional regulation, and martial/relationship distress. Increasing one's awareness of their present experience and motivations I believe is essential for change. I set out to create a non-judgmental environment that will promote growth and movement towards interacting intentionally in relationships. Emotional safety and security will be created in the therapy room and with all members to enhance effectiveness of therapeutic interventions. Please visit www.somatictherapymt.com for more information.
My experience is in working with individuals and couples who struggle with issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, emotional regulation, and martial/relationship distress. Increasing one's awareness of their present experience and motivations I believe is essential for change. I set out to create a non-judgmental environment that will promote growth and movement towards interacting intentionally in relationships. Emotional safety and security will be created in the therapy room and with all members to enhance effectiveness of therapeutic interventions. Please visit www.somatictherapymt.com for more information.
(406) 708-4122 View (406) 708-4122
Photo of Stacking Stones Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montana
Stacking Stones Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, MT 59840
We believe in a Strength's Based approach when working with people in therapy. We have extensive experience working in the mental health field in a variety of different settings. We have worked with a vast majority of mental health issues, including PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Eating Disorders, and various Addictions.
We believe in a Strength's Based approach when working with people in therapy. We have extensive experience working in the mental health field in a variety of different settings. We have worked with a vast majority of mental health issues, including PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Eating Disorders, and various Addictions.
(406) 623-5972 View (406) 623-5972
Photo of Irmak B Redhawk, Counselor in Montana
Irmak B Redhawk
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Ronan, MT 59864
Hello! I am a seasoned competent practitioner with a PhD in psychology. I believe in an authentic and practical approach, offering my clients the necessary tools that can be utilized immediately in combating daily distresses. My services range from horse assisted therapy to grief counseling, somatic healing, mindfulness practices, spiritual counseling, life coaching, and traditional psychotherapy. I am very well versed in different therapeutic modalities and techniques addressing a wide variety of issues, such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, neurodevelopment disorders. My specialty is helping adults on the Autism spectrum and Trauma.
Hello! I am a seasoned competent practitioner with a PhD in psychology. I believe in an authentic and practical approach, offering my clients the necessary tools that can be utilized immediately in combating daily distresses. My services range from horse assisted therapy to grief counseling, somatic healing, mindfulness practices, spiritual counseling, life coaching, and traditional psychotherapy. I am very well versed in different therapeutic modalities and techniques addressing a wide variety of issues, such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, neurodevelopment disorders. My specialty is helping adults on the Autism spectrum and Trauma.
(406) 282-8360 View (406) 282-8360
Photo of Hannah Zimmerman, Counselor in Montana
Hannah Zimmerman
Counselor, LCPC, LAC, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59801
Ever think: "How did I end up here?" or "I never imagined {life event} would happen to me!" You are not alone! We can all relate to these sentiments. Most people do not end up in therapy because circumstances are unicorns and rainbows. Are you struggling with loss, or making meaning out of events that have left you feeling uncertain, shaken, in agony? Do you feel like you are starring in a scene from the film Ground Hog Day, where life is a series of frustrating, repeating events? You can make a successful transition to break this cycle, whatever that personal change is. You will get a sense of control back. A little Zen. Some hope.
Ever think: "How did I end up here?" or "I never imagined {life event} would happen to me!" You are not alone! We can all relate to these sentiments. Most people do not end up in therapy because circumstances are unicorns and rainbows. Are you struggling with loss, or making meaning out of events that have left you feeling uncertain, shaken, in agony? Do you feel like you are starring in a scene from the film Ground Hog Day, where life is a series of frustrating, repeating events? You can make a successful transition to break this cycle, whatever that personal change is. You will get a sense of control back. A little Zen. Some hope.
(406) 351-7157 View (406) 351-7157
Photo of Kim L Waples, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montana
Kim L Waples
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Red Lodge, MT 59068
I’ve lived and worked in rural areas most all my life, therefore I’ve needed to be ready to meet with people who have all types of concerns : depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, grief, life changes, alcohol/drug issues or the death of a beloved pet.
Life can get hard, unpredictable and messy sometimes, especially over the last couple of years! Feeling lost and confused, is part of having a human experience. It's ok not to have all the answers right now, and it's even ok if you've stumbled and fallen. Nobody does this "life thing" perfectly. Maybe, you are considering changing some part of yourself or your life. Great for you!!! It takes a lot of courage to get to that place. Asking for guidance or help is a huge step and it's healthy!
I’ve lived and worked in rural areas most all my life, therefore I’ve needed to be ready to meet with people who have all types of concerns : depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, grief, life changes, alcohol/drug issues or the death of a beloved pet.
Life can get hard, unpredictable and messy sometimes, especially over the last couple of years! Feeling lost and confused, is part of having a human experience. It's ok not to have all the answers right now, and it's even ok if you've stumbled and fallen. Nobody does this "life thing" perfectly. Maybe, you are considering changing some part of yourself or your life. Great for you!!! It takes a lot of courage to get to that place. Asking for guidance or help is a huge step and it's healthy!
View
Photo of Amy Renae Elliott-Winter, Counselor in Montana
Amy Renae Elliott-Winter
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Townsend, MT 59644
I teach problem solving skills, anger management, grief work, stress management, parent-child training and cognitive behavioral understanding.
I have learned that the heart and success of therapy is a safe and trusting relationship /environment where people can grow. I work to provide this safety in a supportive and non judgmental environment which empowers and encourages this. My role is to be empathic and support/guide this growth as well as to give clients a greater understanding of themselves. I see us all as unique and gifted and value the varying depths and needs of people.
I teach problem solving skills, anger management, grief work, stress management, parent-child training and cognitive behavioral understanding.
I have learned that the heart and success of therapy is a safe and trusting relationship /environment where people can grow. I work to provide this safety in a supportive and non judgmental environment which empowers and encourages this. My role is to be empathic and support/guide this growth as well as to give clients a greater understanding of themselves. I see us all as unique and gifted and value the varying depths and needs of people.
(406) 210-2865 View (406) 210-2865
Photo of Virginia Rightmier Pierce, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montana
Virginia Rightmier Pierce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59105
You will find me to be client focused offering a safe, confidential place to address and work through your personal problems/issues. Clients find me easy to talk to and non-judgmental. You get to set your goals and pace for therapy. My 25 years of experience working with victims of abuse and trauma, adoptive families, depression, anxiety, grief, behavioral and emotional problems, parenting issues, relationship problems, and too many other issues to list gives me vast resources to help you grow. It would be an honor to work with you.
You will find me to be client focused offering a safe, confidential place to address and work through your personal problems/issues. Clients find me easy to talk to and non-judgmental. You get to set your goals and pace for therapy. My 25 years of experience working with victims of abuse and trauma, adoptive families, depression, anxiety, grief, behavioral and emotional problems, parenting issues, relationship problems, and too many other issues to list gives me vast resources to help you grow. It would be an honor to work with you.
(406) 961-7375 View (406) 961-7375
Photo of Tracy Rulaine Roberts, Counselor in Montana
Tracy Rulaine Roberts
Counselor, MA, LCPC, PhDc
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Whitefish, MT 59937
I utilize mind-body interventions, wilderness therapy, ceremony/ritual, somatic trauma work, grief work, contemplative practice, somatic trauma work, and energy medicine.
What do you want to do with your one wild and precious life? - Mary Oliver. Navigating the complexities of being human can be many things and yet life's challenges are often our greatest teachers. Throughout my life, I have had a profound love for people, adventure, the natural world, and commitment to soul work – supporting others on their own unique life journey. With compassion, curiosity, and courage, we will work alongside each other to help you pattern new, healthier ways of moving through the world and being in right relationship with self and others - grounded in heart, authenticity, and soul.
I utilize mind-body interventions, wilderness therapy, ceremony/ritual, somatic trauma work, grief work, contemplative practice, somatic trauma work, and energy medicine.
What do you want to do with your one wild and precious life? - Mary Oliver. Navigating the complexities of being human can be many things and yet life's challenges are often our greatest teachers. Throughout my life, I have had a profound love for people, adventure, the natural world, and commitment to soul work – supporting others on their own unique life journey. With compassion, curiosity, and courage, we will work alongside each other to help you pattern new, healthier ways of moving through the world and being in right relationship with self and others - grounded in heart, authenticity, and soul.
(406) 998-1878 View (406) 998-1878
Photo of Chloe Schuh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Montana
Chloe Schuh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715  (Online Only)
I've helped these clients with presenting problems such as infidelity, chronic illness, addiction, grief and divorce.
Are you feeling generally overwhelmed, stuck or lonely in your life or relationships? Are there problems or patterns you're struggling to heal? Relationships have the capacity to affect our lives in really negative ways when they aren't safe and connected. I have a passion for helping couples explore and understand relational wounds so they can heal present problems and find relief from these negative impacts. When relationships are functioning well, they can be a profound source of healing and resiliency - I want my clients to experience this change in, and outside of, the therapy space.
I've helped these clients with presenting problems such as infidelity, chronic illness, addiction, grief and divorce.
Are you feeling generally overwhelmed, stuck or lonely in your life or relationships? Are there problems or patterns you're struggling to heal? Relationships have the capacity to affect our lives in really negative ways when they aren't safe and connected. I have a passion for helping couples explore and understand relational wounds so they can heal present problems and find relief from these negative impacts. When relationships are functioning well, they can be a profound source of healing and resiliency - I want my clients to experience this change in, and outside of, the therapy space.
(406) 306-7728 View (406) 306-7728
Photo of Krystle Kreider, Counselor in Montana
Krystle Kreider
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59808
I'm focused on helping children, teens, and adults find their strengths and utilize them to make the healthy lasting changes they are looking for. I specialize in treating a range of problems: Anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, mood disorders, developmental problems, behavioral issues, ADHD, as well as working with families and children with autism. I understand that each person is different and needs to find an approach suited just for them to be able to heal and grow. I use humanistic, CBT, play therapy, DIR Floortime, and solution focused approaches and tailor them to fit your needs as a client.
I'm focused on helping children, teens, and adults find their strengths and utilize them to make the healthy lasting changes they are looking for. I specialize in treating a range of problems: Anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, mood disorders, developmental problems, behavioral issues, ADHD, as well as working with families and children with autism. I understand that each person is different and needs to find an approach suited just for them to be able to heal and grow. I use humanistic, CBT, play therapy, DIR Floortime, and solution focused approaches and tailor them to fit your needs as a client.
(406) 612-4111 View (406) 612-4111
Photo of Andrea Joan Foran, Marriage & Family Therapist in Montana
Andrea Joan Foran
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59804
I can provide a safe arena for individuals and families to address and heal from various life events; trauma, grief and loss, separation due to addiction and/or incarceration, reunification after a separation.
Couples, families, and individuals get stuck in patterns that disrupt the pursuit of connection and belonging. Building relationships with self and gaining insight into healing processes within us, leads to healing and increased ability engage in life. A safe, respectful, confidential setting improves the therapeutic relationship and leads to a more holistic approach to health and wellness. Substance use, behaviors, secrets, and many other traits contribute to one's inability to connect with others. Specializing in Substance use disorders and families, we can walk through the process with the entire family.
I can provide a safe arena for individuals and families to address and heal from various life events; trauma, grief and loss, separation due to addiction and/or incarceration, reunification after a separation.
Couples, families, and individuals get stuck in patterns that disrupt the pursuit of connection and belonging. Building relationships with self and gaining insight into healing processes within us, leads to healing and increased ability engage in life. A safe, respectful, confidential setting improves the therapeutic relationship and leads to a more holistic approach to health and wellness. Substance use, behaviors, secrets, and many other traits contribute to one's inability to connect with others. Specializing in Substance use disorders and families, we can walk through the process with the entire family.
(406) 545-5891 View (406) 545-5891
Photo of James Nix, Counselor in Montana
James Nix
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
I work with men and women of all ages dealing with a variety of issues. If you or your child struggles with anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, loneliness/isolation, grief and loss, family issues, or just trying to make sense of life, I can create a space for the process of understanding, healing, and growth.
I work with men and women of all ages dealing with a variety of issues. If you or your child struggles with anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, loneliness/isolation, grief and loss, family issues, or just trying to make sense of life, I can create a space for the process of understanding, healing, and growth.
(720) 571-7586 View (720) 571-7586
Photo of Jody L Mosher, Counselor in Montana
Jody L Mosher
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59801  (Online Only)
In order to grow and thrive in life, we all need a sense of feeling understood and enlivened within ourselves, in relationships and in community. I offer a present-centered approach for individual adults, parents, and families who seek to make change, heal from past trauma, move and transform through grief and loss, and improve interpersonal skills.
In order to grow and thrive in life, we all need a sense of feeling understood and enlivened within ourselves, in relationships and in community. I offer a present-centered approach for individual adults, parents, and families who seek to make change, heal from past trauma, move and transform through grief and loss, and improve interpersonal skills.
(406) 414-7715 View (406) 414-7715
Photo of Charles J. Habeck Psy.D., LCPC, LAC,PC, Counselor in Montana
Charles J. Habeck Psy.D., LCPC, LAC,PC
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC, LAC, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
I am competent at assessment of both mental health and addiction problems, and can provide treatment for depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance misuse, codependency, gambling and sexual compulsivity, marital counseling, legal problems, grief counseling, identity and self-worth issues.
The struggle is real- for all of us. I am committed to helping a person grow toward improved insights and coping skills to resolve their problems and related emotions, in a non-judgmental and supportive manner. My goal is for one to learn more about themselves and to function at a higher level in the whole-person dimensions of their life. Whether one is motivated for short-term and situational concerns, or more internally motivated for deeper understanding of self and life-stage fulfillment, the counselor/ client relationship remains paramount as an agent of change.
I am competent at assessment of both mental health and addiction problems, and can provide treatment for depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance misuse, codependency, gambling and sexual compulsivity, marital counseling, legal problems, grief counseling, identity and self-worth issues.
The struggle is real- for all of us. I am committed to helping a person grow toward improved insights and coping skills to resolve their problems and related emotions, in a non-judgmental and supportive manner. My goal is for one to learn more about themselves and to function at a higher level in the whole-person dimensions of their life. Whether one is motivated for short-term and situational concerns, or more internally motivated for deeper understanding of self and life-stage fulfillment, the counselor/ client relationship remains paramount as an agent of change.
(406) 415-2010 View (406) 415-2010
Photo of Ashley Fletcher Hannon, Counselor in Montana
Ashley Fletcher Hannon
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718  (Online Only)
I will empower you to overcome obstacles & find inner peace when struggling with life in the mask of depression, divorce, grief, life changes, anxiety & high pressure work stress.
Are you ready to transform your relationship with life? Are you feeling confused, anxious, or having difficulty finding your happiness in the midst of life's stressors? We all have problems, habits and "quirks" of personality and wonder sometimes when life gets rough, whether we need therapy or if it would be a good option. When life is getting on top of you, when you begin to feel strong emotions that you didn't know that you had, when you feel lost or hopeless or just want to reach your full potential, then give yourself a chance to seek a new solution. I can help. I am Gottman Level II and EMDR trained.
I will empower you to overcome obstacles & find inner peace when struggling with life in the mask of depression, divorce, grief, life changes, anxiety & high pressure work stress.
Are you ready to transform your relationship with life? Are you feeling confused, anxious, or having difficulty finding your happiness in the midst of life's stressors? We all have problems, habits and "quirks" of personality and wonder sometimes when life gets rough, whether we need therapy or if it would be a good option. When life is getting on top of you, when you begin to feel strong emotions that you didn't know that you had, when you feel lost or hopeless or just want to reach your full potential, then give yourself a chance to seek a new solution. I can help. I am Gottman Level II and EMDR trained.
(406) 313-3587 View (406) 313-3587
Photo of Kelli O'Brien, Counselor in Montana
Kelli O'Brien
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Great Falls, MT 59404
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of presenting problems including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma (physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological), low self-esteem, grief and loss, family conflict, school issues, oppositional defiant behaviors, anger management, Autism, and adjustment.
My focus is to help each individual gain self-awareness, self-compassion, and overall confidence in his, her, or their ability to understand and manage overwhelming emotions, stress, and ongoing psychological and behavioral problems. When we are defeated or don’t feel like ourselves, it is easy to focus on the negatives; I help individuals, couples, and families rediscover their strengths and the positive attributes that empower them toward growth and happiness. I am passionate about kids, women’s issues, building healthy relationships, increasing self-esteem, and healing family dynamics (including teaching parenting skills).
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of presenting problems including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma (physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological), low self-esteem, grief and loss, family conflict, school issues, oppositional defiant behaviors, anger management, Autism, and adjustment.
My focus is to help each individual gain self-awareness, self-compassion, and overall confidence in his, her, or their ability to understand and manage overwhelming emotions, stress, and ongoing psychological and behavioral problems. When we are defeated or don’t feel like ourselves, it is easy to focus on the negatives; I help individuals, couples, and families rediscover their strengths and the positive attributes that empower them toward growth and happiness. I am passionate about kids, women’s issues, building healthy relationships, increasing self-esteem, and healing family dynamics (including teaching parenting skills).
(406) 760-1784 View (406) 760-1784
Photo of Carrie L Ovard, Counselor in Montana
Carrie L Ovard
Counselor, MS, LAMFT, LCMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102  (Online Only)
My areas of specialization include adoption, anger management, antisocial personality, anxiety, behavioral issues, bipolar disorder, codependency, depression, divorce, domestic abuse, domestic violence, dual diagnosis, emotional disturbance, family conflict, grief, life transitions, marital and premarital, oppositional defiance, parenting, peer relationships, relationship issues, school issues, sex therapy, suicidal ideation and trauma and PTSD. I focus on a wide range of clients including adults, teenagers, preteenagers, and children. I use several therapeutic modalities/approaches.
My areas of specialization include adoption, anger management, antisocial personality, anxiety, behavioral issues, bipolar disorder, codependency, depression, divorce, domestic abuse, domestic violence, dual diagnosis, emotional disturbance, family conflict, grief, life transitions, marital and premarital, oppositional defiance, parenting, peer relationships, relationship issues, school issues, sex therapy, suicidal ideation and trauma and PTSD. I focus on a wide range of clients including adults, teenagers, preteenagers, and children. I use several therapeutic modalities/approaches.
(435) 233-9025 View (435) 233-9025
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.