Grief Therapists in Helena, MT

Photo of Ashley Browne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Helena, MT
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 Jamie D Anesi, Counselor in Helena, MT
Jamie D Anesi
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
This journey of grief, loss and heartbreak is one of the ways we call ourselves back home.
At this time, I am exclusively a Telehealth provider for Montana clients. It is one of the most profound honors of my life the last 18 years to have people trust me with their deepest wounds and to share their journeys of courage. I have learned the importance of being lost, the language of rain and storms, and the deep echoing of the mourning howl. I believe that by allowing and accepting the mystery of loss with it's own timing, we have a chance to claim our path, our symbols. In order to become whole, the shadow and the light must be recognized, all must be explored.
This journey of grief, loss and heartbreak is one of the ways we call ourselves back home.
At this time, I am exclusively a Telehealth provider for Montana clients. It is one of the most profound honors of my life the last 18 years to have people trust me with their deepest wounds and to share their journeys of courage. I have learned the importance of being lost, the language of rain and storms, and the deep echoing of the mourning howl. I believe that by allowing and accepting the mystery of loss with it's own timing, we have a chance to claim our path, our symbols. In order to become whole, the shadow and the light must be recognized, all must be explored.
(406) 229-3082 View (406) 229-3082
Photo of Anna Rolando, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Helena, MT
Anna Rolando
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
But being unable to move forward, in spite of, or along side "what is" -- grief, painful feelings, difficult relationships, or challenging situations -- can be even more difficult.
Welcome! Prior to affiliating with Mount Helena Counseling, I was fortunate to provide psychotherapeutic support to individuals and families in the Helena area for over 18 years. My experience has allowed me to provide counseling to persons spanning the age continuum from adolescents to aging adults. My areas of expertise include end-of-life, grief and loss, palliative care, chronic illness, anxiety, depression, gender questioning, and suicidal ideation. Our work together will include "talk therapy" (focusing on thoughts and feelings) as well as mindfulness-based activities (focusing on present "in the moment" experiences).
But being unable to move forward, in spite of, or along side "what is" -- grief, painful feelings, difficult relationships, or challenging situations -- can be even more difficult.
Welcome! Prior to affiliating with Mount Helena Counseling, I was fortunate to provide psychotherapeutic support to individuals and families in the Helena area for over 18 years. My experience has allowed me to provide counseling to persons spanning the age continuum from adolescents to aging adults. My areas of expertise include end-of-life, grief and loss, palliative care, chronic illness, anxiety, depression, gender questioning, and suicidal ideation. Our work together will include "talk therapy" (focusing on thoughts and feelings) as well as mindfulness-based activities (focusing on present "in the moment" experiences).
(406) 306-7259 View (406) 306-7259
Photo of Rebekah Price Orr, Counselor in Helena, MT
Rebekah Price Orr
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Helena, MT 59601  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in perinatal mental health and grief counseling but see a wide array of clients 16 years and older.
My belief is that everyone is deserving and capable of a full and meaningful life. Therapy offers a unique opportunity to explore the aspects of life that can be difficult to hike through alone. I believe in the healing power of a collaborative therapeutic relationship and work to provide a warm, supportive and empowering environment where lasting growth and change can take place.
I specialize in perinatal mental health and grief counseling but see a wide array of clients 16 years and older.
My belief is that everyone is deserving and capable of a full and meaningful life. Therapy offers a unique opportunity to explore the aspects of life that can be difficult to hike through alone. I believe in the healing power of a collaborative therapeutic relationship and work to provide a warm, supportive and empowering environment where lasting growth and change can take place.
(406) 770-2302 View (406) 770-2302
Photo of Claire Forsman, Counselor in Helena, MT
Claire Forsman
Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
I work with a variety of life issues, from trauma and grief to depression, anxiety and everyday stressors in between. My hope for our work together is to help my clients develop a deeper sense of knowing and trusting themselves. I strive to provide a space to explore how and where a person may feel stuck in order to move forward with a better sense of awareness and a greater level of compassion. I believe when self-awareness grows, we are able to show up differently in our relationships, desires, and lives. I also believe change is possible when we have a trusting therapist/client relationship to build off.
I work with a variety of life issues, from trauma and grief to depression, anxiety and everyday stressors in between. My hope for our work together is to help my clients develop a deeper sense of knowing and trusting themselves. I strive to provide a space to explore how and where a person may feel stuck in order to move forward with a better sense of awareness and a greater level of compassion. I believe when self-awareness grows, we are able to show up differently in our relationships, desires, and lives. I also believe change is possible when we have a trusting therapist/client relationship to build off.
(406) 730-7942 View (406) 730-7942
Photo of Karen Wilcox, Counselor in Helena, MT
Karen Wilcox
Counselor, LCPC, LAC, MAC
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
I help individuals process grief and trauma associated with a variety of experiences, (e.g., death, job loss, illness, relationship, financial problems, and substance use. Ultimately, I help clients become more hopeful and even joyful about their lives moving forward. With compassion and empathy I am prepared to help you with the process of healing emotionally through this time of transition. I understand grief can affect each of us in ways that we cannot process by ourselves. I will assist you on your journey by providing a safe place where you can grieve in healthy ways and begin to experience a more joyful life.
I help individuals process grief and trauma associated with a variety of experiences, (e.g., death, job loss, illness, relationship, financial problems, and substance use. Ultimately, I help clients become more hopeful and even joyful about their lives moving forward. With compassion and empathy I am prepared to help you with the process of healing emotionally through this time of transition. I understand grief can affect each of us in ways that we cannot process by ourselves. I will assist you on your journey by providing a safe place where you can grieve in healthy ways and begin to experience a more joyful life.
(406) 637-7870 View (406) 637-7870
Photo of Lyndsay Smith (Sentinel Mental Health Inc), Pre-Licensed Professional in Helena, MT
Lyndsay Smith (Sentinel Mental Health Inc)
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SWLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Helena, MT 59601
What does it mean to hold space for someone else? As a clinically trained social worker my goal is to provide a space for you that is safe, supportive and free from judgment. I help my clients explore and identify sources of stress with a goal of improving their wellbeing. I love working with pregnant and postpartum moms (and dads), helping people work through grief and bereavement, people who are coping with a life-changing medical condition, and people who are healing and recovering from depression, trauma and anxiety. I have been practicing as a generalist social worker in the Helena community for 10 years.
What does it mean to hold space for someone else? As a clinically trained social worker my goal is to provide a space for you that is safe, supportive and free from judgment. I help my clients explore and identify sources of stress with a goal of improving their wellbeing. I love working with pregnant and postpartum moms (and dads), helping people work through grief and bereavement, people who are coping with a life-changing medical condition, and people who are healing and recovering from depression, trauma and anxiety. I have been practicing as a generalist social worker in the Helena community for 10 years.
(406) 412-1624 View (406) 412-1624
Photo of Perceptions Mental Health LLC, Counselor in Helena, MT
Perceptions Mental Health LLC
Counselor, MMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
Hello, and welcome to Perceptions Mental Health, LLC. My name is Duane Cordiner, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I am trained in solution focused brief therapy (SFBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), as well as good ol’ talk therapy. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families in the areas of anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar, grief, loss, relationship issues, as well as other general mental health concerns.
Hello, and welcome to Perceptions Mental Health, LLC. My name is Duane Cordiner, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I am trained in solution focused brief therapy (SFBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), as well as good ol’ talk therapy. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families in the areas of anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar, grief, loss, relationship issues, as well as other general mental health concerns.
(406) 416-5376 View (406) 416-5376
Photo of Robie J Marcoux, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Helena, MT
Robie J Marcoux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59602
I see people struggling with work and relationship problems, healing from trauma and loss, life transitions, and coping with anxiety and depression.
As a therapist, my aim is to meet you where you are. I help by fostering a safe, non-judgmental environment, centered on exploring the unique issues and struggles which brought you to therapy. I will provide support and understanding within the therapeutic relationship for you to better understand yourself and the difficulties you are having. In this process you can learn to understand and manage the obstacles that have led to the struggles whether it be in your mood, behaviors, self-esteem, jobs, and/or relationships. I believe in the most difficult of times there is also an opportunity for change and growth.
I see people struggling with work and relationship problems, healing from trauma and loss, life transitions, and coping with anxiety and depression.
As a therapist, my aim is to meet you where you are. I help by fostering a safe, non-judgmental environment, centered on exploring the unique issues and struggles which brought you to therapy. I will provide support and understanding within the therapeutic relationship for you to better understand yourself and the difficulties you are having. In this process you can learn to understand and manage the obstacles that have led to the struggles whether it be in your mood, behaviors, self-esteem, jobs, and/or relationships. I believe in the most difficult of times there is also an opportunity for change and growth.
(406) 412-2797 View (406) 412-2797
Photo of Healing Mountain Mental Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Helena, MT
Healing Mountain Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
Our specialties are in trauma recovery (for individuals and their families), coping with chronic illness/pain and grief, marginalized populations, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders.
We have immediate openings for Carol Josephson, LCSW/LAC. Please reach out to inquire about insurance. At Healing Mountain, we believe that we all are working towards a sense of purpose, wholeness, and connectedness. We are honored to have helped others overcome monumental obstacles to find peace and contentment in life, and we use a variety of evidence-based techniques to fit individual goals.
Our specialties are in trauma recovery (for individuals and their families), coping with chronic illness/pain and grief, marginalized populations, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders.
We have immediate openings for Carol Josephson, LCSW/LAC. Please reach out to inquire about insurance. At Healing Mountain, we believe that we all are working towards a sense of purpose, wholeness, and connectedness. We are honored to have helped others overcome monumental obstacles to find peace and contentment in life, and we use a variety of evidence-based techniques to fit individual goals.
(406) 282-8973 View (406) 282-8973
Photo of Jennifer Franklin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Helena, MT
Jennifer Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Helena, MT 59602  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people work through depression, anxiety, relational issues, abuse, PTSD/trauma, life transitions, LGBTQ+ concerns, grief and loss.
On-line sessions only. No in person session available...Most likely, it took a lot of courage for you to arrive here. It requires bravery to open up to someone and be vulnerable. To say, “I need help,” is a tremendously vulnerable act. It might be hard to trust people or to risk opening up about your struggles. I get it. I'm here to make that process as seamless as possible. The more each of us reaches out for help, the more we normalize helping each other. I aim to create an atmosphere where you can be open about all your life experiences without judgment.
I specialize in helping people work through depression, anxiety, relational issues, abuse, PTSD/trauma, life transitions, LGBTQ+ concerns, grief and loss.
On-line sessions only. No in person session available...Most likely, it took a lot of courage for you to arrive here. It requires bravery to open up to someone and be vulnerable. To say, “I need help,” is a tremendously vulnerable act. It might be hard to trust people or to risk opening up about your struggles. I get it. I'm here to make that process as seamless as possible. The more each of us reaches out for help, the more we normalize helping each other. I aim to create an atmosphere where you can be open about all your life experiences without judgment.
(406) 284-0478 View (406) 284-0478
Photo of Michelle Hines, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Helena, MT
Michelle Hines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
I work with children, teens, and adults to manage and assist with difficulties that interfere with daily functioning, which include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss issues, divorce, and trauma while working together to reach goals in a safe and confidential environment.
I work with children, teens, and adults to manage and assist with difficulties that interfere with daily functioning, which include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss issues, divorce, and trauma while working together to reach goals in a safe and confidential environment.
(406) 415-2158 View (406) 415-2158
Photo of William Evans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Helena, MT
William Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
This carries over into my private practice for clients working through grief, trauma, anger, PTSD, anxiety and depression.
I am a LCSW, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and LMFT, Licensed Marriage and Family Counselor, and have been in practice for over 30 years. I hold a MA degree in Social Science from the University of Chicago, and a MSW in Clinical Social Work from the University of Denver. I have served as president of the National Association of Social Workers, Montana Chapter, and on several national NASW committees. After serving as director of the local mental health center and teaching part time in the Sociology Department at Carroll College, I started my own private practice: Adult and Child Counseling Service.
This carries over into my private practice for clients working through grief, trauma, anger, PTSD, anxiety and depression.
I am a LCSW, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and LMFT, Licensed Marriage and Family Counselor, and have been in practice for over 30 years. I hold a MA degree in Social Science from the University of Chicago, and a MSW in Clinical Social Work from the University of Denver. I have served as president of the National Association of Social Workers, Montana Chapter, and on several national NASW committees. After serving as director of the local mental health center and teaching part time in the Sociology Department at Carroll College, I started my own private practice: Adult and Child Counseling Service.
(406) 412-2158 View (406) 412-2158
Photo of Susan A Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Helena, MT
Susan A Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Helena, MT 59601
I enjoy helping children overcome and heal from life's challenges. I believe that teamwork with parents is critical to kid's healing and healthy development. With over 25 years of professional experience, I specialize in treating children ages 2-18. I offer effective evidence based treatment for early childhood through adolescence. Children's stumbling blocks can be rooted in divorce, learning or developmental disabilities, loss, grief, behavioral difficulties, trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety and academic struggles. Counseling can help turn these struggles into valuable life experience and increased confidence.
I enjoy helping children overcome and heal from life's challenges. I believe that teamwork with parents is critical to kid's healing and healthy development. With over 25 years of professional experience, I specialize in treating children ages 2-18. I offer effective evidence based treatment for early childhood through adolescence. Children's stumbling blocks can be rooted in divorce, learning or developmental disabilities, loss, grief, behavioral difficulties, trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety and academic struggles. Counseling can help turn these struggles into valuable life experience and increased confidence.
(406) 646-2211 View (406) 646-2211
Photo of Jen A Mittelstadt, Pre-Licensed Professional in Helena, MT
Jen A Mittelstadt
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SWLC
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
Waitlist for new clients
I offer a safe place for exploration and healing. I believe in the power of a strong client/therapist relationship, and I am dedicated to giving you the opportunity to show up, just as you are. I have worked with folks experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, thoughts of suicide, grief, and loss. It can be hard to face these challenges, and hard to reach out. I am happy to offer free in-person or over the phone consultation.
I offer a safe place for exploration and healing. I believe in the power of a strong client/therapist relationship, and I am dedicated to giving you the opportunity to show up, just as you are. I have worked with folks experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, thoughts of suicide, grief, and loss. It can be hard to face these challenges, and hard to reach out. I am happy to offer free in-person or over the phone consultation.
(406) 345-6604 View (406) 345-6604
Photo of Kody Ramler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Helena, MT
Kody Ramler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
I believe that individuals posses the strength within themselves to make the changes necessary to reach their desired goals. However, stress, trauma, life transition, grief/loss, etc. can make it difficult to identify and recognize these strengths and resources. Working in collaboration with my clients, I assist them in uncovering or rediscovering their inner resources and figuring out how they can be used to guide them toward the life they want to live. Through an individualized approach and nonjudgmental stance, I show my clients kindness, compassion, authenticity, validation, and unconditional positive regard.
I believe that individuals posses the strength within themselves to make the changes necessary to reach their desired goals. However, stress, trauma, life transition, grief/loss, etc. can make it difficult to identify and recognize these strengths and resources. Working in collaboration with my clients, I assist them in uncovering or rediscovering their inner resources and figuring out how they can be used to guide them toward the life they want to live. Through an individualized approach and nonjudgmental stance, I show my clients kindness, compassion, authenticity, validation, and unconditional positive regard.
(406) 729-4985 View (406) 729-4985
Photo of Kathryn Trucano lcpc llc, Counselor in Helena, MT
Kathryn Trucano lcpc llc
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
I enjoy working with individuals (young adults and older adults). Depression, anxiety, grief, life changes/crises, developmental growth, attachment, relational issues, adverse spiritual and religious experiences, and other concerns are my areas of focus. I am open to all faith traditions. In addition to being a licensed professional counselor, I am also an ordained Interfaith Minister (2006). I completed the training on religious abuse/trauma through the Global Center for Religious Research group and “Understanding Cults: A Foundational Course for Clinicians” through the Freedom of Mind Resource Center.
I enjoy working with individuals (young adults and older adults). Depression, anxiety, grief, life changes/crises, developmental growth, attachment, relational issues, adverse spiritual and religious experiences, and other concerns are my areas of focus. I am open to all faith traditions. In addition to being a licensed professional counselor, I am also an ordained Interfaith Minister (2006). I completed the training on religious abuse/trauma through the Global Center for Religious Research group and “Understanding Cults: A Foundational Course for Clinicians” through the Freedom of Mind Resource Center.
(406) 412-1631 View (406) 412-1631
Photo of Andrea Strizich, MSW, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Helena, MT
Andrea Strizich, MSW, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
As a 4th generation Montanan, parent and partner I understand the complexities of society, culture, families, grief, relationships, parenting, partnership, school, striving to meet goals, and becoming our best selves.
I have an inclusive practice where I care for clients presenting with diverse issues. These include elderly, adults, young adults, youth, and families. In my 30+ years of experience, I have worked in a variety of settings engaging in diverse practice using an eclectic approach with individualized interventions. I believe that individuals have the ability to heal and grow within the context of relationships. I emphasize a framework of building a strong relationship of trust and safety.
As a 4th generation Montanan, parent and partner I understand the complexities of society, culture, families, grief, relationships, parenting, partnership, school, striving to meet goals, and becoming our best selves.
I have an inclusive practice where I care for clients presenting with diverse issues. These include elderly, adults, young adults, youth, and families. In my 30+ years of experience, I have worked in a variety of settings engaging in diverse practice using an eclectic approach with individualized interventions. I believe that individuals have the ability to heal and grow within the context of relationships. I emphasize a framework of building a strong relationship of trust and safety.
(406) 412-3564 View (406) 412-3564
Photo of Bozeman Wellness Counseling PLLC, Counselor in Helena, MT
Bozeman Wellness Counseling PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCPC, SEP
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
I specialize in working with adults who are suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, grief, relationship issues, adjustment issues, low self-esteem, eating disorders, and emotional and behavioral issues associated with traumatic brain injury.
As we walk through our lives, we are faced with many challenges. Sudden, unexpected events such as injuries, illnesses, and losses can happen to us at any given time. In this fast changing world, it is often difficult to have a sense of balance. You may be overwhelmed by restless, negative feelings and thoughts from past or present issues. It takes courage to seek counseling, face your issues, and to take steps towards positive changes. I believe we all have inner abilities to heal and grow. As a therapist, I would be honored to assist you in your individual journey and help you to discover your true potential and life value.
I specialize in working with adults who are suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, grief, relationship issues, adjustment issues, low self-esteem, eating disorders, and emotional and behavioral issues associated with traumatic brain injury.
As we walk through our lives, we are faced with many challenges. Sudden, unexpected events such as injuries, illnesses, and losses can happen to us at any given time. In this fast changing world, it is often difficult to have a sense of balance. You may be overwhelmed by restless, negative feelings and thoughts from past or present issues. It takes courage to seek counseling, face your issues, and to take steps towards positive changes. I believe we all have inner abilities to heal and grow. As a therapist, I would be honored to assist you in your individual journey and help you to discover your true potential and life value.
(406) 948-4438 View (406) 948-4438
Photo of Aubrey M Hancock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Helena, MT
Aubrey M Hancock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CDP
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
I also offer Care Management services and support to individuals confronting memory loss and their caregivers.
Of the many lessons that we are confronted with in our modern era, perhaps the most important is that of the vitalness of maintaining connection- within ourselves, first and foremost, so that we can know and call upon those personal resources that facilitate connection with all that is outside of us. Living with a mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety, can threaten our ability to know who we truly are and, as a result, deprive the world of our true gifts.
I also offer Care Management services and support to individuals confronting memory loss and their caregivers.
Of the many lessons that we are confronted with in our modern era, perhaps the most important is that of the vitalness of maintaining connection- within ourselves, first and foremost, so that we can know and call upon those personal resources that facilitate connection with all that is outside of us. Living with a mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety, can threaten our ability to know who we truly are and, as a result, deprive the world of our true gifts.
(406) 284-0632 View (406) 284-0632

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.