Therapists in Virginia
Kimberly C Pulley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mechanicsville, VA 23111
I also specialize in grief and loss issues, including anticipatory grief caregivers often experience while caring for their seriously ill loved one.
The path of life can be full of twists and turns and it's easy to become overwhelmed, especially in times of change and transition. Do you find yourself at a crossroads, not knowing where to turn? I believe there is hope, even in the most difficult of circumstances. I enjoy helping others regain their sense of hope by developing insight and tapping into their strengths and abilities. In doing so, healthier, more successful ways of coping with life's challenges can begin to emerge.
I also specialize in grief and loss issues, including anticipatory grief caregivers often experience while caring for their seriously ill loved one.
The path of life can be full of twists and turns and it's easy to become overwhelmed, especially in times of change and transition. Do you find yourself at a crossroads, not knowing where to turn? I believe there is hope, even in the most difficult of circumstances. I enjoy helping others regain their sense of hope by developing insight and tapping into their strengths and abilities. In doing so, healthier, more successful ways of coping with life's challenges can begin to emerge.
Julia Baumgardner Chung
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22180
My specialties include grief and loss, health psychology for chronic illness, mind/body and experiential treatment of chronic pain and physical symptoms, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Congratulations on taking the first step toward a major life change! The decision to begin counseling is an immense gesture of self love and courage. Finding the right fit is so important to the therapeutic process. Whatever brings you here - the loss of a loved one, a major life transition, troubling relationship patterns, chronic illness or pain, or feeling stuck and confused about the future - will be explored with openness, curiosity, and acceptance. Things can feel easier, when explored without shame or judgment. I believe that we all have the innate ability to heal with the right connection and understanding.
My specialties include grief and loss, health psychology for chronic illness, mind/body and experiential treatment of chronic pain and physical symptoms, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Congratulations on taking the first step toward a major life change! The decision to begin counseling is an immense gesture of self love and courage. Finding the right fit is so important to the therapeutic process. Whatever brings you here - the loss of a loved one, a major life transition, troubling relationship patterns, chronic illness or pain, or feeling stuck and confused about the future - will be explored with openness, curiosity, and acceptance. Things can feel easier, when explored without shame or judgment. I believe that we all have the innate ability to heal with the right connection and understanding.
Pamela Beverage
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
In a typical work week I may talk with people who are dealing with: loss and grief, life transitions, relationship concerns, communication and conflict, mother-daughter or father-son issues, depression, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, job dissatisfaction, or early conflicts underlying addictions.
In my work I make deep connections with people as we meet and talk honestly. Each person who meets with me seeks to find meaning and purpose in life. Part of this process is helping the unconscious and the conscious talk to each other because many of our inner conflicts, i.e. fights with ourselves, come from a lack of communication between the conscious and unconscious. A part of the work is exploring what lies in shadow. This is not just repressed, ugly stuff. For many folks untapped gifts and potential lie in the unknown parts of themselves.
In a typical work week I may talk with people who are dealing with: loss and grief, life transitions, relationship concerns, communication and conflict, mother-daughter or father-son issues, depression, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, job dissatisfaction, or early conflicts underlying addictions.
In my work I make deep connections with people as we meet and talk honestly. Each person who meets with me seeks to find meaning and purpose in life. Part of this process is helping the unconscious and the conscious talk to each other because many of our inner conflicts, i.e. fights with ourselves, come from a lack of communication between the conscious and unconscious. A part of the work is exploring what lies in shadow. This is not just repressed, ugly stuff. For many folks untapped gifts and potential lie in the unknown parts of themselves.
Letitia D Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23226 (Online Only)
Individuals seek mental health counseling for an array of issues including- phase of life issues, divorce, retirement, grief and loss issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental illnesses.
Lets talk! The practice focus is person centered, strengths based, and focuses on personal growth and working together in a supportive setting to facilitate a patient’s journey towards empowerment evolution of self and living their best version of their life.
Individuals seek mental health counseling for an array of issues including- phase of life issues, divorce, retirement, grief and loss issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental illnesses.
Lets talk! The practice focus is person centered, strengths based, and focuses on personal growth and working together in a supportive setting to facilitate a patient’s journey towards empowerment evolution of self and living their best version of their life.
I have worked with clients facing trauma and grief for over fifteen years in various settings, and I helped them develop inner strengths and bear the unbearable.
You might have lost someone important to you or feel like you lost a loved one because the person has changed due to sickness or age. Or it could be that you have lost something important to you, like your identity, abilities, or dream, and it is difficult to live the same way. Grief is part of our life, yet every kind of grief is complex and hard to bear. It is normal to feel overwhelmed, out of control and isolated, as no one understands what you have been going through. Keeping yourself busy sounds like a good strategy for the short term, but even if you are strong and independent, we all need help sometimes.
I have worked with clients facing trauma and grief for over fifteen years in various settings, and I helped them develop inner strengths and bear the unbearable.
You might have lost someone important to you or feel like you lost a loved one because the person has changed due to sickness or age. Or it could be that you have lost something important to you, like your identity, abilities, or dream, and it is difficult to live the same way. Grief is part of our life, yet every kind of grief is complex and hard to bear. It is normal to feel overwhelmed, out of control and isolated, as no one understands what you have been going through. Keeping yourself busy sounds like a good strategy for the short term, but even if you are strong and independent, we all need help sometimes.
I believe in the importance of building a meaningful connection with clients, and I prioritize empathy and support in those client-therapist relationships. I am passionate about helping people navigate perinatal concerns such as infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, birth trauma, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. I also have experience with grief and loss, anxiety, and depression, and I am committed to providing affirming care to the LGBTQIA+ population.
I believe in the importance of building a meaningful connection with clients, and I prioritize empathy and support in those client-therapist relationships. I am passionate about helping people navigate perinatal concerns such as infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, birth trauma, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. I also have experience with grief and loss, anxiety, and depression, and I am committed to providing affirming care to the LGBTQIA+ population.
Pamela R Joyner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MA, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23321
I provide therapy to individuals, couples, families, and groups; some interventions/theories, and diagnosis include CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic, Mindfulness, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Adjustment Disorder, and Personality Disorders.
Greetings! When life gets to be overwhelming, more than you can handle, or maybe just at a point where you need some professional and unbiased guidance, I can help. My ideal client is someone that is open to allowing me to help them reach their desired goals, and improve their mental and overall well being. My treatment approach is from an ecIectic lens. I am here to meet you where you are. No two people are exactly the same, and as such, they should not be treated with the exact same approach and techniques. I believe that being a competent, and ethical clinician, with great listening skills is paramount to providing optimal care.
I provide therapy to individuals, couples, families, and groups; some interventions/theories, and diagnosis include CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic, Mindfulness, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Adjustment Disorder, and Personality Disorders.
Greetings! When life gets to be overwhelming, more than you can handle, or maybe just at a point where you need some professional and unbiased guidance, I can help. My ideal client is someone that is open to allowing me to help them reach their desired goals, and improve their mental and overall well being. My treatment approach is from an ecIectic lens. I am here to meet you where you are. No two people are exactly the same, and as such, they should not be treated with the exact same approach and techniques. I believe that being a competent, and ethical clinician, with great listening skills is paramount to providing optimal care.
Therapy is a powerful transforming experience bringing growth and change from the loss and hurt that comes from life's challenges.
I have been a psychotherapist for 30 plus years. Intially, I worked at The Menninger Foundation and later at Eastern Virginia Psychiatric Institute Adult Unit. I was an associate professor at EVMS in family therapy where I taught and coordinated training workshops for the Family Therapy Institute. In 1986, I joined the private practice of Clinical Associates. In 2012, my psychiatrist husband and I moved our location to Laskin Road. I am an Approved Supervisor in the American Association of Marital and Family Therapists and specialize in marital therapy, pre-marital counseling, divorce and conflict resolution in couples.
Therapy is a powerful transforming experience bringing growth and change from the loss and hurt that comes from life's challenges.
I have been a psychotherapist for 30 plus years. Intially, I worked at The Menninger Foundation and later at Eastern Virginia Psychiatric Institute Adult Unit. I was an associate professor at EVMS in family therapy where I taught and coordinated training workshops for the Family Therapy Institute. In 1986, I joined the private practice of Clinical Associates. In 2012, my psychiatrist husband and I moved our location to Laskin Road. I am an Approved Supervisor in the American Association of Marital and Family Therapists and specialize in marital therapy, pre-marital counseling, divorce and conflict resolution in couples.
Becki Porter-Harmon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, BCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
Forty plus years of experience in the field have shown that a compassionate, individual approach is the most effective starting point. I offer a variety of approaches, so that clients will find what works best for their healing journey. These approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Experiential Therapy, Mind-Body/Somatic approaches, Psychodynamic approaches, and Mindfulness techniques. My work is trauma informed and strength/hope oriented. Clients seeking help with anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, and life transitions will be able to develop insight through self-discovery and coping skills to make changes that heal.
Forty plus years of experience in the field have shown that a compassionate, individual approach is the most effective starting point. I offer a variety of approaches, so that clients will find what works best for their healing journey. These approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Experiential Therapy, Mind-Body/Somatic approaches, Psychodynamic approaches, and Mindfulness techniques. My work is trauma informed and strength/hope oriented. Clients seeking help with anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, and life transitions will be able to develop insight through self-discovery and coping skills to make changes that heal.
Terry J Thorpe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gloucester, VA 23061 (Online Only)
I have extensive post graduate training in grief and trauma and how it affects us spiritually, mentally and physically.
I am a graduate of both the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and Virginia Commonwealth University, with a master’s in social work. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the state of Virginia. I have been working with individuals and families for approximately 18 years.
I have extensive post graduate training in grief and trauma and how it affects us spiritually, mentally and physically.
I am a graduate of both the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and Virginia Commonwealth University, with a master’s in social work. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the state of Virginia. I have been working with individuals and families for approximately 18 years.
Bradd Buckingham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACMH, LPC, CTP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fredericksburg, VA 22406
I see counseling as a collaborative process where my goal is to guide you in leveraging your strengths to initiate and sustain meaningful changes in your life. I address various issues in counseling, including but not limited to depression, stress management, anxiety, grief and loss, family changes, complex trauma, aging, communication problems, and behavioral issues.
I see counseling as a collaborative process where my goal is to guide you in leveraging your strengths to initiate and sustain meaningful changes in your life. I address various issues in counseling, including but not limited to depression, stress management, anxiety, grief and loss, family changes, complex trauma, aging, communication problems, and behavioral issues.
15 Second Videos
Nichole A Phillips
Anne-Paige T. Motley
LeslieGrace Craver
Teresa M Tivenan
Susana Calley, LCSW
Alison Sullivan
Anthony George Ladikos
Katie Pancione
Katy Cribbs
Aaryn Kopp
Kerriann E Murray
Cardinal Family Counseling, PLLC
Center for Holistic Psychotherapy
Farifteh Emamghorashi
HLF Christian Counseling
Thais Deane
Emma Hacker
Jennifer Lager
Kate Mullins
Nikki Stup
Infertility Pregnancy Postpartum Third Party Reproduction
Emily Tate
Ami Lynch
Holly Hartson
Katie-Anne Padalino
NLSAW Counseling
Jessica O. Hunter
Cara Root
Cary-Grace James
Meira Ellias
Anne Speckhard
Debra Rezendes
Sarah Hagen
Jeanna Grahl
Shannon Soto
Thrive Therapy Center, LLC
Jesse Gray Pearlstein
Hannah Hazel
Domany Davilmar
Sarah Gunther
Susan Jedd
Ngozi Wellness
Luke E. Hummel
Wright Group Counseling
Mehgan O'Donnell
Scott Debb
Noelle Ostroff
Jen Patterson
Maria Ines Butler
Kimberly Folden
I specialize in women's issues, trauma, and grief and loss.
True growth begins to take shape through self-awareness, reflection, and change. The therapeutic relationship is a major step towards that growth through collaboration, exploration, and understanding. I take great value in this relationship and hope to provide a sense of safety, curiosity, and overall relief of symptoms. I hope to help individuals develop and utilize better coping strategies, gain understanding of behaviors, and make connections between the past and present. It's truly an honor to watch individuals work to gain the successes in their lives, find true happiness and security, and an overall solid sense of themselves.
I specialize in women's issues, trauma, and grief and loss.
True growth begins to take shape through self-awareness, reflection, and change. The therapeutic relationship is a major step towards that growth through collaboration, exploration, and understanding. I take great value in this relationship and hope to provide a sense of safety, curiosity, and overall relief of symptoms. I hope to help individuals develop and utilize better coping strategies, gain understanding of behaviors, and make connections between the past and present. It's truly an honor to watch individuals work to gain the successes in their lives, find true happiness and security, and an overall solid sense of themselves.
My background as a school counselor, grief therapist, and in community mental health has given me a wider perspective in addressing the different challenges you might be facing.
Hi there! If you're here, you're likely navigating some of life's tougher challenges. I'd like to help. I work with clients of all ages who are tired of feeling stressed, worried, or sad. Together, we'll figure out how to make life better, whether it means processing how past experiences are affecting you, adjusting to more recent life changes, overcoming grief, dealing with low self-esteem/self-image, or figuring out how to handle complicated relationships. If you'd benefit from untangling the different aspects of what's happening to you or your child, so that we can find solutions and breathe freely again, I'd love to support you!
My background as a school counselor, grief therapist, and in community mental health has given me a wider perspective in addressing the different challenges you might be facing.
Hi there! If you're here, you're likely navigating some of life's tougher challenges. I'd like to help. I work with clients of all ages who are tired of feeling stressed, worried, or sad. Together, we'll figure out how to make life better, whether it means processing how past experiences are affecting you, adjusting to more recent life changes, overcoming grief, dealing with low self-esteem/self-image, or figuring out how to handle complicated relationships. If you'd benefit from untangling the different aspects of what's happening to you or your child, so that we can find solutions and breathe freely again, I'd love to support you!
Richard Frank Tavolacci
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
Areas of specialty: Marriage and Family Therapy- Blended Family Issues-Anxiety Disorders-PTSD-Panic and Anxiety Attacks-Agoraphobia-Depression and Mood Disorders- Developmental and Learning Disabilities-ADHD,ODD, OCD- Grief Counseling-Anger Management-Abuse Issues- Court Related Issues- Pain Management Issues, Divorce/Separation & Custody Issues.
Career Summary- 30 years of social work and counseling services to a wide and varied demographic of people groups for the betterment of my clientele, their families, and the community at large. Currently, my emphasis is on individual therapy with children, adolescents, and adults, as well as marriage and family therapy. I have also done much work with male issues and military clientele and their families, and blended family issues. I'm centrally located and serving clients in Tidewater, including Chesapeake, Suffolk, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Newport News.
Areas of specialty: Marriage and Family Therapy- Blended Family Issues-Anxiety Disorders-PTSD-Panic and Anxiety Attacks-Agoraphobia-Depression and Mood Disorders- Developmental and Learning Disabilities-ADHD,ODD, OCD- Grief Counseling-Anger Management-Abuse Issues- Court Related Issues- Pain Management Issues, Divorce/Separation & Custody Issues.
Career Summary- 30 years of social work and counseling services to a wide and varied demographic of people groups for the betterment of my clientele, their families, and the community at large. Currently, my emphasis is on individual therapy with children, adolescents, and adults, as well as marriage and family therapy. I have also done much work with male issues and military clientele and their families, and blended family issues. I'm centrally located and serving clients in Tidewater, including Chesapeake, Suffolk, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Newport News.
Nichole A Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MDiv, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midlothian, VA 23114 (Online Only)
Feeling stuck? Sad? Angry?Confused? Alone? Tired of being tired? Need someone to hear YOU for a change? Whether it is struggling with depression, anxiety, childhood trauma or just learning how to manage the mental and emotional stress of daily life I focus on helping persons learn how to heal the "whole soul". I specialize in persons who are living through depression/anxiety, grief/ loss and also those who feel "stuck" by a traumatic event (sexual abuse, major death, etc) from their past. If you are looking for a relatable, knowledgeable, culturally sensitive provider youve come to the right place. All are welcome to heal here
Feeling stuck? Sad? Angry?Confused? Alone? Tired of being tired? Need someone to hear YOU for a change? Whether it is struggling with depression, anxiety, childhood trauma or just learning how to manage the mental and emotional stress of daily life I focus on helping persons learn how to heal the "whole soul". I specialize in persons who are living through depression/anxiety, grief/ loss and also those who feel "stuck" by a traumatic event (sexual abuse, major death, etc) from their past. If you are looking for a relatable, knowledgeable, culturally sensitive provider youve come to the right place. All are welcome to heal here
Therapy for Grief, Loss & Endings at CCHC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT, LCSW, LMT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
We work with individuals, couples, and families to integrate loss so you can retain the gifts and richness it offers, rather than lose these too.
We are wired for love and meaning. When we lose the people/things we care about, it is deeply felt in our body, mind, and spirit. Loss can disorient, disorganize, and disrupt our identity, place in the world, and sense of security. Grieving a loss (passing of a loved one, a relationship ending, or change in life circumstances such as career, health, orlocation) is a sacred process of honoring the very important role, needs, and purpose the person or important thing offered you. Grief represents a fundamental dilemma, how to love and live with an open heart and survive the inevitable endings, transitions, and losses that life brings.
We work with individuals, couples, and families to integrate loss so you can retain the gifts and richness it offers, rather than lose these too.
We are wired for love and meaning. When we lose the people/things we care about, it is deeply felt in our body, mind, and spirit. Loss can disorient, disorganize, and disrupt our identity, place in the world, and sense of security. Grieving a loss (passing of a loved one, a relationship ending, or change in life circumstances such as career, health, orlocation) is a sacred process of honoring the very important role, needs, and purpose the person or important thing offered you. Grief represents a fundamental dilemma, how to love and live with an open heart and survive the inevitable endings, transitions, and losses that life brings.
As a specialist in The Grief Recovery Method, I offer in-person and virtual One-on-One Sessions and in-person Group Sessions.
Hello, my name is Nikki. My therapeutic style combines talk therapy and various techniques to offer a holistic approach covering multiple aspects of life: familial, social, emotional, cognitive, cultural, and spiritual. I have clinical experience working with adolescents and adults who have survived trauma, struggle to set healthy boundaries in relational dynamics, and mood/anxiety disorders. I thoughtfully facilitate couples, parent-child, and family sessions to address the needs identified by my clients. I provide services to special needs adolescents and adults by identifying their strengths and fostering resilience.
As a specialist in The Grief Recovery Method, I offer in-person and virtual One-on-One Sessions and in-person Group Sessions.
Hello, my name is Nikki. My therapeutic style combines talk therapy and various techniques to offer a holistic approach covering multiple aspects of life: familial, social, emotional, cognitive, cultural, and spiritual. I have clinical experience working with adolescents and adults who have survived trauma, struggle to set healthy boundaries in relational dynamics, and mood/anxiety disorders. I thoughtfully facilitate couples, parent-child, and family sessions to address the needs identified by my clients. I provide services to special needs adolescents and adults by identifying their strengths and fostering resilience.
With almost a decade of experience in the field of mental health, I offer treatment for Complex trauma, grief and loss, Depression, Anxiety, and Adjustment Disorders.
Have you ever heard someone tell you "Just get over it!"? When someone is struggling with a major life change, grief, or health challenge, this is not acceptable! Let's talk about your story, your journey, and your destination. My goal is for you to leave your appointment with a feeling of validation and direction. I love when my clients realize that they are capable and start reaching their goals. Partnering with me means that you will always have someone who is willing to walk alongside you in moments when you are feeling a little bit lost or alone. My passion is to see you find your direction and live your life to the fullest.
With almost a decade of experience in the field of mental health, I offer treatment for Complex trauma, grief and loss, Depression, Anxiety, and Adjustment Disorders.
Have you ever heard someone tell you "Just get over it!"? When someone is struggling with a major life change, grief, or health challenge, this is not acceptable! Let's talk about your story, your journey, and your destination. My goal is for you to leave your appointment with a feeling of validation and direction. I love when my clients realize that they are capable and start reaching their goals. Partnering with me means that you will always have someone who is willing to walk alongside you in moments when you are feeling a little bit lost or alone. My passion is to see you find your direction and live your life to the fullest.
Sarah R Massie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23505
Waitlist for new clients
It is a privilege and honor to be able to assist those who are struggling with issues that are impacating their lives in a negative way including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, abuse, divorce, parenting, ADHD, relationship, and more. It takes a great deal of courage to choose to journey on the path of growth, healing, and wholeness, and you will find compassion, safety, and unconditional acceptance if you choose to allow me to join you in this important season of your life.
It is a privilege and honor to be able to assist those who are struggling with issues that are impacating their lives in a negative way including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, abuse, divorce, parenting, ADHD, relationship, and more. It takes a great deal of courage to choose to journey on the path of growth, healing, and wholeness, and you will find compassion, safety, and unconditional acceptance if you choose to allow me to join you in this important season of your life.
Maureen Flaherty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20166
I also specialize in illness (acute and chronic), loss in all its varied forms, grief, and end-of-life issues.
I believe many of our emotional and relational difficulties are connected to the experiences we have growing up in our unique family systems. These experiences shape core beliefs about who we are and what we can expect from others. This work involves becoming unstuck emotionally and healing faulty relationship maps, losses, or traumatic wounds of the past. I can support you to resolve the unfinished business of the past so you don’t have to keep recreating it in the present and find that when clients create healing at the root cause, the symptoms are no longer needed. While pain and loss are inevitable, suffering is optional.
I also specialize in illness (acute and chronic), loss in all its varied forms, grief, and end-of-life issues.
I believe many of our emotional and relational difficulties are connected to the experiences we have growing up in our unique family systems. These experiences shape core beliefs about who we are and what we can expect from others. This work involves becoming unstuck emotionally and healing faulty relationship maps, losses, or traumatic wounds of the past. I can support you to resolve the unfinished business of the past so you don’t have to keep recreating it in the present and find that when clients create healing at the root cause, the symptoms are no longer needed. While pain and loss are inevitable, suffering is optional.
See more therapy options for Virginia
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.