Photo of Mary Hildenbrand, Psychologist in Lakewood, OH
Mary Hildenbrand
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
Sometimes when life feels completely out of control and your world has been turned upside down, having one hour a week you can count on can be life-changing. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, having a hard time connecting with the people in your life, going through a major life transition or loss, or simply trying to figure out how to feel like yourself again, I am here to support and guide you through that process. The right balance of support and challenge in therapy can often help you to unlock any "stuck" areas and empower you to re-create your life.
Sometimes when life feels completely out of control and your world has been turned upside down, having one hour a week you can count on can be life-changing. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, having a hard time connecting with the people in your life, going through a major life transition or loss, or simply trying to figure out how to feel like yourself again, I am here to support and guide you through that process. The right balance of support and challenge in therapy can often help you to unlock any "stuck" areas and empower you to re-create your life.
(216) 304-3536 View (216) 304-3536
Photo of Megan Berg Donnelly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Megan Berg Donnelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
In addition to my specialties I work with adolescents (16+) and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, relationship difficulties, grief and loss.
Life brings challenges and hardships often leaving us feeling stuck and overwhelmed. You do not have to be alone in your struggles, and I am committed to working together to help you reach your goals. I place a high value on the therapeutic relationship, offering a safe, empathetic , judgement-free space to help you identify barriers and emotions that are holding you back, facilitating growth and self-awareness along the way. My mission is to empower client's to make change and create more meaning in their lives.
In addition to my specialties I work with adolescents (16+) and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, relationship difficulties, grief and loss.
Life brings challenges and hardships often leaving us feeling stuck and overwhelmed. You do not have to be alone in your struggles, and I am committed to working together to help you reach your goals. I place a high value on the therapeutic relationship, offering a safe, empathetic , judgement-free space to help you identify barriers and emotions that are holding you back, facilitating growth and self-awareness along the way. My mission is to empower client's to make change and create more meaning in their lives.
(216) 284-6049 View (216) 284-6049
Photo of Lauren Negrey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Lauren Negrey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Waitlist for new clients
I have been privileged to work with people of all ages manage challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, stress and life transitions, behavioral concerns, school issues, interpersonal/marital issues, and self esteem.
Therapy is hard work. Making personal changes that enhance self awareness, figuring out difficult decisions, and looking for a new path forward is not always easy and I would be honored to accompany you on your journey. I rely on a combination of evidenced based practices like cognitive behavioral, dialectical, brief solutions focus, and narrative therapies to customize a plan that we will co-create to suit your needs and goals to help you explore your situation, create understanding and change, and become the best version of yourself.
I have been privileged to work with people of all ages manage challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, stress and life transitions, behavioral concerns, school issues, interpersonal/marital issues, and self esteem.
Therapy is hard work. Making personal changes that enhance self awareness, figuring out difficult decisions, and looking for a new path forward is not always easy and I would be honored to accompany you on your journey. I rely on a combination of evidenced based practices like cognitive behavioral, dialectical, brief solutions focus, and narrative therapies to customize a plan that we will co-create to suit your needs and goals to help you explore your situation, create understanding and change, and become the best version of yourself.
(216) 369-6628 View (216) 369-6628
Photo of J. Subsinsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, OH
J. Subsinsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
My specialization of therapy services extends to addressing symptoms related to past trauma, anxiety, depression, loss, and adjustment difficulties.
Hello, I’m J. Subsinsky (he/him). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Art Therapist (ATR-P), and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). My mission is to guide clients on a transformative journey where we bring unconscious material to light, and work collaboratively to reach profound levels of self-awareness, compassion, and acceptance so that individuals may access a state of inner harmony to navigate life as their authentic selves with a tranquil heart. I have a deep affinity for working with creative and introspective adults seeking to understand themselves.
My specialization of therapy services extends to addressing symptoms related to past trauma, anxiety, depression, loss, and adjustment difficulties.
Hello, I’m J. Subsinsky (he/him). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Art Therapist (ATR-P), and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). My mission is to guide clients on a transformative journey where we bring unconscious material to light, and work collaboratively to reach profound levels of self-awareness, compassion, and acceptance so that individuals may access a state of inner harmony to navigate life as their authentic selves with a tranquil heart. I have a deep affinity for working with creative and introspective adults seeking to understand themselves.
(216) 868-4824 View (216) 868-4824
Photo of Tanya J Middleton, Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Tanya J Middleton
Counselor, PhD, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
,) trauma, abuse, SAP evaluations/education, PTSD, legal issues, depression, anxiety, grief, anger management, domestic violence, and behavioral management.
There are many inconsistencies in life that can interfere with happiness. Relationship issues, addiction, and emotional and mood issues are a few examples that can act as barriers to success and my goal is simple. I want to help you uncover these concerns by not only highlighting those inconsistencies but by working together to eliminate road blocks standing in the way of your true purpose. I not only want to help you reach your potential, but maintain that level and improve overall quality of life.
,) trauma, abuse, SAP evaluations/education, PTSD, legal issues, depression, anxiety, grief, anger management, domestic violence, and behavioral management.
There are many inconsistencies in life that can interfere with happiness. Relationship issues, addiction, and emotional and mood issues are a few examples that can act as barriers to success and my goal is simple. I want to help you uncover these concerns by not only highlighting those inconsistencies but by working together to eliminate road blocks standing in the way of your true purpose. I not only want to help you reach your potential, but maintain that level and improve overall quality of life.
(216) 242-2291 View (216) 242-2291
Photo of Flourish CLE, Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Flourish CLE
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, ATR, RYT-200
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
I work to support clients struggling with challenges related to ADHD, Adjustment (general issues), Adoption, Anxiety, Attachment issues, Bereavement, Complex Trauma/PTSD, Complicated Grief/Traumatic Loss, Depression, LGBTQIA+ Issues, and Life Transitions of all ages.
Hello! My name is Ally McCarley. I am a licensed professional clinical counselor, registered art therapist, and registered yoga teacher. I believe that everyone is capable of healing and growth if given the right tools and support. I also believe that all parts of your self and your story deserve to be heard, honored, validated and sometimes challenged in a safe, supportive space. I have extensive training in many trauma informed modalities including Art Therapy, Yoga, Mindfulness and Meditation, Therapeutic Play, parts of self and EMDR and utilize a blend of these treatments depending on a client's particular needs and experiences.
I work to support clients struggling with challenges related to ADHD, Adjustment (general issues), Adoption, Anxiety, Attachment issues, Bereavement, Complex Trauma/PTSD, Complicated Grief/Traumatic Loss, Depression, LGBTQIA+ Issues, and Life Transitions of all ages.
Hello! My name is Ally McCarley. I am a licensed professional clinical counselor, registered art therapist, and registered yoga teacher. I believe that everyone is capable of healing and growth if given the right tools and support. I also believe that all parts of your self and your story deserve to be heard, honored, validated and sometimes challenged in a safe, supportive space. I have extensive training in many trauma informed modalities including Art Therapy, Yoga, Mindfulness and Meditation, Therapeutic Play, parts of self and EMDR and utilize a blend of these treatments depending on a client's particular needs and experiences.
(216) 485-3781 View (216) 485-3781
Photo of Jay VanLandingham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, OH
Jay VanLandingham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone struggles with acceptance. Accepting ourselves, accepting others, accepting life. If you are dealing with anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, low confidence, issues around gender identity and/or identifying as LGBTQ+ and are looking for an accepting therapist to help you find a sense of peace, you've come to the right place. I am a licensed independent social worker (LISW) in the state of Ohio. I identify as trans and have twenty years experience in the LGBTQ community. My experience as a social worker ranges from work in the HIV/AIDS community to those living with cancer.
Everyone struggles with acceptance. Accepting ourselves, accepting others, accepting life. If you are dealing with anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, low confidence, issues around gender identity and/or identifying as LGBTQ+ and are looking for an accepting therapist to help you find a sense of peace, you've come to the right place. I am a licensed independent social worker (LISW) in the state of Ohio. I identify as trans and have twenty years experience in the LGBTQ community. My experience as a social worker ranges from work in the HIV/AIDS community to those living with cancer.
(513) 452-6744 View (513) 452-6744
Photo of Maggie Scott, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Maggie Scott
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
I work with individuals seeking treatment concerning anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, sexuality, identity, spirituality, life transitional periods, grief and loss.
I celebrate the individuality of each of my clients. I create a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment to facilitate growth and healing through self-exploration and awareness. It is my goal to empower you by drawing from your strengths and personal values.
I work with individuals seeking treatment concerning anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, sexuality, identity, spirituality, life transitional periods, grief and loss.
I celebrate the individuality of each of my clients. I create a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment to facilitate growth and healing through self-exploration and awareness. It is my goal to empower you by drawing from your strengths and personal values.
View
Photo of Max Balakoff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, OH
Max Balakoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
You may be struggling with a lot right now, and I want to welcome you to reach out to me anytime. In our lives, we have to deal with so many difficulties. Even when things seem like they are going well, there can exist inner conflict and a lingering sense that something might be wrong. Things are moving fast, and you may feel like your attention span has shrunk. You may be zoning out or just feeling like something terrible could happen. You may be having trouble sleeping, managing impulses, making decisions, or maintaining motivation. You may be struggling with people or challenging situations in your life.
You may be struggling with a lot right now, and I want to welcome you to reach out to me anytime. In our lives, we have to deal with so many difficulties. Even when things seem like they are going well, there can exist inner conflict and a lingering sense that something might be wrong. Things are moving fast, and you may feel like your attention span has shrunk. You may be zoning out or just feeling like something terrible could happen. You may be having trouble sleeping, managing impulses, making decisions, or maintaining motivation. You may be struggling with people or challenging situations in your life.
(440) 762-6963 View (440) 762-6963
Photo of Mary Kay Shelton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Mary Kay Shelton
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
I recognize how challenging it can be to step into the process of healing and change and I work to meet you wherever you may be emotionally, mentally, and physically. I strive to make the therapy process feel safe and approachable. I use compassion, humor, empowerment, and curiosity to create a supportive environment and to work collaboratively with you. We will work together in navigating barriers and challenges and mapping out the next steps that are best for you in your journey. I have a calm and relatable style and prioritize developing an authentic and trusting therapeutic relationship with you.
I recognize how challenging it can be to step into the process of healing and change and I work to meet you wherever you may be emotionally, mentally, and physically. I strive to make the therapy process feel safe and approachable. I use compassion, humor, empowerment, and curiosity to create a supportive environment and to work collaboratively with you. We will work together in navigating barriers and challenges and mapping out the next steps that are best for you in your journey. I have a calm and relatable style and prioritize developing an authentic and trusting therapeutic relationship with you.
(216) 284-3620 View (216) 284-3620
Photo of Samantha Chadwell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Samantha Chadwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
Change what you can, manage what you can't (Raymond McCauley). Samantha is a compassionate helper who has worked with many different diagnoses throughout her three years of experience in mental health. She passionately believes that every person is unique and requires a unique approach. Specializing in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder, Samantha provides eclectic treatment, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies. Samantha is a connector, focusing on helping as many people as she can while reducing mental health stigma and driving for change.
Change what you can, manage what you can't (Raymond McCauley). Samantha is a compassionate helper who has worked with many different diagnoses throughout her three years of experience in mental health. She passionately believes that every person is unique and requires a unique approach. Specializing in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder, Samantha provides eclectic treatment, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies. Samantha is a connector, focusing on helping as many people as she can while reducing mental health stigma and driving for change.
(216) 284-5283 View (216) 284-5283
Photo of Cornerstone Behavioral Health in Lakewood, OH
Cornerstone Behavioral Health
LPCC-S, CCTP, CCFP, CDBT, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
Hope starts here. Are you feeling sad or stressed? Do you experience mood swings but don't really know why? Maybe you've been withdrawing from family, friends, or activities that used to breathe light into your life. If you have been feeling depressed, have found yourself more angry or hostile than normal, or suffer from low energy or problems sleeping, you may have an untreated mental health issue. Mental health impacts your way of thinking, relating to others, and overall quality of life. Many issues have been identified and defined including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress (PTSD), etc. You don't have to suffer anymore.
Hope starts here. Are you feeling sad or stressed? Do you experience mood swings but don't really know why? Maybe you've been withdrawing from family, friends, or activities that used to breathe light into your life. If you have been feeling depressed, have found yourself more angry or hostile than normal, or suffer from low energy or problems sleeping, you may have an untreated mental health issue. Mental health impacts your way of thinking, relating to others, and overall quality of life. Many issues have been identified and defined including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress (PTSD), etc. You don't have to suffer anymore.
(216) 238-5187 View (216) 238-5187
Photo of Lauren Boudon, Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Lauren Boudon
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
Are you struggling to connect and communicate with your partner or loved ones? I will walk alongside you as we develop new ways of building healthy relationships with those around you. A lot of my clients have been stuck repeating the same patterns over and over and are ready to find a path toward healing and connection. My hope is to offer a safe haven where you can take the risks that are needed to challenge these old cycles. Together we can find a way back to safe and secure connection. We will work together so that you leave counseling feeling empowered and confident in your relationship with yourself and others.
Are you struggling to connect and communicate with your partner or loved ones? I will walk alongside you as we develop new ways of building healthy relationships with those around you. A lot of my clients have been stuck repeating the same patterns over and over and are ready to find a path toward healing and connection. My hope is to offer a safe haven where you can take the risks that are needed to challenge these old cycles. Together we can find a way back to safe and secure connection. We will work together so that you leave counseling feeling empowered and confident in your relationship with yourself and others.
(336) 276-2087 View (336) 276-2087
Photo of Veronica Fabec, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Veronica Fabec
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
We think we listen, but very rarely do we listen with real understanding, true empathy. Yet, listening of this very special kind, is one of the most potent forces for change that I know (Carl Rogers). Veronica is here to listen. She passionately focuses on creating a safe place for people to feel comfortable making healthy changes in their lives. As a native Spanish speaker, she is an empathic, open-minded helper focused on truly hearing English- or Spanish-speaking clients. Specializing in the treatment of anxiety and depression, Veronica provides catered treatment, primarily channeled through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
We think we listen, but very rarely do we listen with real understanding, true empathy. Yet, listening of this very special kind, is one of the most potent forces for change that I know (Carl Rogers). Veronica is here to listen. She passionately focuses on creating a safe place for people to feel comfortable making healthy changes in their lives. As a native Spanish speaker, she is an empathic, open-minded helper focused on truly hearing English- or Spanish-speaking clients. Specializing in the treatment of anxiety and depression, Veronica provides catered treatment, primarily channeled through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(216) 606-8248 View (216) 606-8248
Photo of Michael Wilson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Michael Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
What you think is what you say. What you say is what you do. What you do continually becomes your habit. Your habits create your character; your character determines your destiny (Jeremy Anderson). Michael Wilson is a compassionate connector skilled in the art of therapy over his six years of experience aiding clients in achieving their mental health goals. To Michael, trust is crucial to the healing process. To that end, he approaches each session with a genuine and empathic desire to connect. When you're in session with Michael, you have his undivided attention. Bridging the gap between individuals and social change is his core.
What you think is what you say. What you say is what you do. What you do continually becomes your habit. Your habits create your character; your character determines your destiny (Jeremy Anderson). Michael Wilson is a compassionate connector skilled in the art of therapy over his six years of experience aiding clients in achieving their mental health goals. To Michael, trust is crucial to the healing process. To that end, he approaches each session with a genuine and empathic desire to connect. When you're in session with Michael, you have his undivided attention. Bridging the gap between individuals and social change is his core.
(216) 616-5279 View (216) 616-5279
Photo of Anna Martonchik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, OH
Anna Martonchik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
As we all face challenges through our lives, it can be beneficial to be surrounded by support and tools that allow you to grow through these times. I strive to create an environment that is comfortable and inviting, allowing a space to best explore and care for your mental health. Therapy is a great opportunity to embrace self-care and continue a journey of building your best self.
As we all face challenges through our lives, it can be beneficial to be surrounded by support and tools that allow you to grow through these times. I strive to create an environment that is comfortable and inviting, allowing a space to best explore and care for your mental health. Therapy is a great opportunity to embrace self-care and continue a journey of building your best self.
(216) 369-4935 View (216) 369-4935
Photo of Caleb Folkerts, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Caleb Folkerts
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CCTP, CCFP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
Hope starts here! Caleb is a master of the therapeutic arts who skillfully guides his clients through the twists and turns of the human psyche. His compassionate and intuitive approach helps clients find clarity and empowerment as they navigate life's challenges. Caleb's ability to connect with clients on a deep level is truly remarkable, and his dedication to helping them achieve their goals is nothing short of inspiring. If you're looking for a therapist who can help you unlock your full potential, Caleb is your guy!
Hope starts here! Caleb is a master of the therapeutic arts who skillfully guides his clients through the twists and turns of the human psyche. His compassionate and intuitive approach helps clients find clarity and empowerment as they navigate life's challenges. Caleb's ability to connect with clients on a deep level is truly remarkable, and his dedication to helping them achieve their goals is nothing short of inspiring. If you're looking for a therapist who can help you unlock your full potential, Caleb is your guy!
(216) 367-5120 View (216) 367-5120
Photo of Karen A. Kazsmer, Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Karen A. Kazsmer
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Making a decision to work with a therapist can change your life. Finding one with the right expertise to work with your concerns can really change your life. I am a well informed, well qualified and highly trained professional Counselor with over 30 years of experience. My holistic approach has an emphasis on nurturing a healthy balance of heart, mind, body and spirit, thereby creating more self-awareness to facilitate positive changes in your life. I provide a safe, respectful, compassionate and encouraging environment to explore challenges that keep you from being your best self and living a healthy thriving life.
Making a decision to work with a therapist can change your life. Finding one with the right expertise to work with your concerns can really change your life. I am a well informed, well qualified and highly trained professional Counselor with over 30 years of experience. My holistic approach has an emphasis on nurturing a healthy balance of heart, mind, body and spirit, thereby creating more self-awareness to facilitate positive changes in your life. I provide a safe, respectful, compassionate and encouraging environment to explore challenges that keep you from being your best self and living a healthy thriving life.
(216) 820-9917 View (216) 820-9917
Photo of Arianna Music, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lakewood, OH
Arianna Music
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, CCTP, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change (Carl Rogers). Arianna is an empathic helper who has worked with many different diagnoses. She passionately believes that empathic connection is most-valuable to healthy healing and growth. Specializing in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD, Arianna provides person-centered treatment, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies. Arianna is focused on creating a space that is safe and free of judgment. This leads to learning, trying new things, and healing.
The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change (Carl Rogers). Arianna is an empathic helper who has worked with many different diagnoses. She passionately believes that empathic connection is most-valuable to healthy healing and growth. Specializing in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD, Arianna provides person-centered treatment, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies. Arianna is focused on creating a space that is safe and free of judgment. This leads to learning, trying new things, and healing.
(216) 208-3887 View (216) 208-3887
Photo of Julie Nguyen, Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Julie Nguyen
Counselor, MSEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
Welcome to a space where your story is heard and healing begins. Deep within each of us, there’s a longing to be accepted and understood for who we truly are. Whether you’re seeking to unpack the complexities of your feelings or wanting to navigate the path of healing from childhood wounds, I’m here to support you through that process. Whatever you are struggling with, know that you were never meant to face it alone. All parts of you are invited here, and I will always work to provide a safe and comfortable space for you to explore your inner world.
Welcome to a space where your story is heard and healing begins. Deep within each of us, there’s a longing to be accepted and understood for who we truly are. Whether you’re seeking to unpack the complexities of your feelings or wanting to navigate the path of healing from childhood wounds, I’m here to support you through that process. Whatever you are struggling with, know that you were never meant to face it alone. All parts of you are invited here, and I will always work to provide a safe and comfortable space for you to explore your inner world.
(216) 677-5694 View (216) 677-5694

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.