Photo of Bill Grimsman, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Bill Grimsman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
My top areas of expertise are successfully working with Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQIA+, Life Transitions, Addiction- SBC (substances or behaviors of concern), Loss and Grief, Gender Identity (in all its forms), Kink, and Personal Growth.
You will be professionally heard with care and respect.
My top areas of expertise are successfully working with Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQIA+, Life Transitions, Addiction- SBC (substances or behaviors of concern), Loss and Grief, Gender Identity (in all its forms), Kink, and Personal Growth.
You will be professionally heard with care and respect.
(206) 495-4696 View (206) 495-4696
Photo of Karee Powers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Karee Powers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with complex trauma, combat trauma, sexual trauma and grief, depression, and anxiety.
I specialize in helping adults and adolescents who are struggling through difficult life situations. My hope is that my clients will begin to emerge from the experience with strength, insight and a sense of empowerment to address the next challenge with grace. Using a strengths-based approach, I employ concepts of cognitive therapy and mindfulness to increase self-awareness and choice within life's challenges. I also use EMDR, an evidence-based approach, to help release the impact of past experiences on current emotions, thoughts and behaviors including traumatic events and childhood trauma.
I have extensive experience working with complex trauma, combat trauma, sexual trauma and grief, depression, and anxiety.
I specialize in helping adults and adolescents who are struggling through difficult life situations. My hope is that my clients will begin to emerge from the experience with strength, insight and a sense of empowerment to address the next challenge with grace. Using a strengths-based approach, I employ concepts of cognitive therapy and mindfulness to increase self-awareness and choice within life's challenges. I also use EMDR, an evidence-based approach, to help release the impact of past experiences on current emotions, thoughts and behaviors including traumatic events and childhood trauma.
(206) 899-4897 View (206) 899-4897
Photo of Carla Ann Kleefeld, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Seattle, WA
Carla Ann Kleefeld
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
My expertise is in working with interpersonal neurobiology and grief, as well as mindfulness, Archetypal Psychology and dreams.
I am a warm and engaged therapist and bring a deep curiosity and playfulness as well as deep listening and feeling to our process. I have over 30 years of training and experience in the field of clinical and depth psychology. Whether you are an individual or couple, struggling with communication issues or reevaluating your relationship needs and history, I bring an engaged and informed perspective to our work together. I am extensively trained in early attachment, relational trauma, sexuality and intimacy and bring a compassionate collaborative presence to the therapeutic process.
My expertise is in working with interpersonal neurobiology and grief, as well as mindfulness, Archetypal Psychology and dreams.
I am a warm and engaged therapist and bring a deep curiosity and playfulness as well as deep listening and feeling to our process. I have over 30 years of training and experience in the field of clinical and depth psychology. Whether you are an individual or couple, struggling with communication issues or reevaluating your relationship needs and history, I bring an engaged and informed perspective to our work together. I am extensively trained in early attachment, relational trauma, sexuality and intimacy and bring a compassionate collaborative presence to the therapeutic process.
(505) 257-6309 View (505) 257-6309
Photo of Weston C Pew, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Weston C Pew
Counselor, MA, CC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98108
Life is change. For the past eight years, I have been helping people navigate the uncertain waters of life. Whether it be dealing with illness, addiction, the loss of a loved one, trauma, divorce, or simply working through uncertainty and the anxiety and fear that come with it; my job is to accompany you through the storm and give you the tools and resources necessary to not only survive but thrive. There is a part of you that knows what is possible for your life, and with a bit of curiosity and awareness, we can tap into that wisdom and use it as a guide to not only heal your past but ensure a future that matches your potential.
Life is change. For the past eight years, I have been helping people navigate the uncertain waters of life. Whether it be dealing with illness, addiction, the loss of a loved one, trauma, divorce, or simply working through uncertainty and the anxiety and fear that come with it; my job is to accompany you through the storm and give you the tools and resources necessary to not only survive but thrive. There is a part of you that knows what is possible for your life, and with a bit of curiosity and awareness, we can tap into that wisdom and use it as a guide to not only heal your past but ensure a future that matches your potential.
(206) 208-7279 View (206) 208-7279
Photo of Cheryl Kay Wright, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Cheryl Kay Wright
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, NCC, CGIP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with women's issues, mood disorders, grief, loss, and PTSD.
Cheryl Wright M.ED, LMHC, SUDP, NCC, MAC, I have been a therapist over 12 years working with individuals who are struggling with life. It may be mental health, addiction, grief or relationship issues. My goal is to help you begin a healing journey to a more balanced self. I believe we need someone to talk to who will listen, not judge and accept us where we are. I want you to have peace, hope and make the changes you desire. I use a variety of approaches including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy and Reality Therapy. I believe everyone deserves the very best and I tailor my approach to meet your needs.
I enjoy working with women's issues, mood disorders, grief, loss, and PTSD.
Cheryl Wright M.ED, LMHC, SUDP, NCC, MAC, I have been a therapist over 12 years working with individuals who are struggling with life. It may be mental health, addiction, grief or relationship issues. My goal is to help you begin a healing journey to a more balanced self. I believe we need someone to talk to who will listen, not judge and accept us where we are. I want you to have peace, hope and make the changes you desire. I use a variety of approaches including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy and Reality Therapy. I believe everyone deserves the very best and I tailor my approach to meet your needs.
(509) 956-4891 View (509) 956-4891
Photo of Great Lakes Perinatal Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Seattle, WA
Great Lakes Perinatal Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
I see therapy as a gateway to strengthening our authentic self through healing, learning, acceptance and growth. It is often through our self-proclaimed imperfections that we find the greatest gifts, insights and points of focus that help us understand and become clear about the path we are walking and the possibilities that are before us. We have all known suffering, loss, trauma and despair. These experiences may shape us but they do not have to define us.
I see therapy as a gateway to strengthening our authentic self through healing, learning, acceptance and growth. It is often through our self-proclaimed imperfections that we find the greatest gifts, insights and points of focus that help us understand and become clear about the path we are walking and the possibilities that are before us. We have all known suffering, loss, trauma and despair. These experiences may shape us but they do not have to define us.
(773) 974-6695 View (773) 974-6695
Photo of Connie Nichols, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Connie Nichols
Counselor, MS Ed, LPC, LIMHP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
I offer a safe and empathetic space to process and work through challenges, including trauma, adjustments, behavior issues, depression, anxiety, education, employment, grief and loss, and many other personal growth, joy, and life inhibitors.
I am licensed in Washington and use Headway Services for billing and scheduling, you will provide the necessary information and schedule with the website link under my picture. My approach to therapy is with mutual respect, positive regard, and focus on steps toward goal attainment with an interactive exchange, I will tailor a plan based on your individual needs which may include distress tolerance, mindfulness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. I will provide assistance for you in recognizing your wants and needs ensuring that our communication is open and you are able to effectively express yourself.
I offer a safe and empathetic space to process and work through challenges, including trauma, adjustments, behavior issues, depression, anxiety, education, employment, grief and loss, and many other personal growth, joy, and life inhibitors.
I am licensed in Washington and use Headway Services for billing and scheduling, you will provide the necessary information and schedule with the website link under my picture. My approach to therapy is with mutual respect, positive regard, and focus on steps toward goal attainment with an interactive exchange, I will tailor a plan based on your individual needs which may include distress tolerance, mindfulness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. I will provide assistance for you in recognizing your wants and needs ensuring that our communication is open and you are able to effectively express yourself.
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Photo of Jenny Barth, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Jenny Barth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, substance abuse, grief, couples therapy and sex and intimacy.
Therapy is a deeply personal process and I consider it a privilege to be invited to be a part of your journey in healing and improving your life and relationships. I see therapy as a collaborative process in which I support you in identifying your goals for therapy and assist you in achieving those goals. I work with individuals, couples and young adults. I am physically located in Seattle, but also licensed in Utah and able to provide tele-health services to clients located outside Seattle.
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, substance abuse, grief, couples therapy and sex and intimacy.
Therapy is a deeply personal process and I consider it a privilege to be invited to be a part of your journey in healing and improving your life and relationships. I see therapy as a collaborative process in which I support you in identifying your goals for therapy and assist you in achieving those goals. I work with individuals, couples and young adults. I am physically located in Seattle, but also licensed in Utah and able to provide tele-health services to clients located outside Seattle.
(206) 800-8939 View (206) 800-8939
Photo of David C. Herzog, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
David C. Herzog
Psychologist, PsyD, MFA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, LGBT issues, professional and personal identity, transition, relationship issues, substance abuse, veterans issues, and grief and loss.
During our lives, we encounter experiences that can move us away from a direct connection to ourselves. Influences from family, friends, peers, jobs, and the greater culture can affect how we view and express ourselves. We can become conditioned to thinking, feeling and behaving in a way that is incompatible with who we really are and what we want in our lives. This compromises our ability to value our unique identity and to express and apply ourselves, and our strengths. I will help you to identify, understand and remove barriers that are keeping you from realizing your fullest potential. I offer Telehealth only in California.
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, LGBT issues, professional and personal identity, transition, relationship issues, substance abuse, veterans issues, and grief and loss.
During our lives, we encounter experiences that can move us away from a direct connection to ourselves. Influences from family, friends, peers, jobs, and the greater culture can affect how we view and express ourselves. We can become conditioned to thinking, feeling and behaving in a way that is incompatible with who we really are and what we want in our lives. This compromises our ability to value our unique identity and to express and apply ourselves, and our strengths. I will help you to identify, understand and remove barriers that are keeping you from realizing your fullest potential. I offer Telehealth only in California.
(206) 565-0187 View (206) 565-0187
Photo of Bil Kareta, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Bil Kareta
Counselor, MAPC, LMHC, SD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98117
l incorporate mindfulness, guided imagery, journaling and meditation to work with spiritual bereavement and loss.
Life is a difficult and confusing journey for all of us. Occasionally we get "stuck" along the path. Sometimes that growth is blocked because of issues, patterns and behaviors from the past which affect the way we feel, do or react in the present. If you are experiencing issues such as depression, anxiety, stress and relationship concerns. I can offer you: a combination of heart, skill, and understanding to help you find your own solutions to these problems that face you. Through the use of solution-oriented, emotionally focused, and reality based techniques, can help you and your relationships overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.
l incorporate mindfulness, guided imagery, journaling and meditation to work with spiritual bereavement and loss.
Life is a difficult and confusing journey for all of us. Occasionally we get "stuck" along the path. Sometimes that growth is blocked because of issues, patterns and behaviors from the past which affect the way we feel, do or react in the present. If you are experiencing issues such as depression, anxiety, stress and relationship concerns. I can offer you: a combination of heart, skill, and understanding to help you find your own solutions to these problems that face you. Through the use of solution-oriented, emotionally focused, and reality based techniques, can help you and your relationships overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.
(206) 557-6792 View (206) 557-6792
Photo of Thomas P Essex, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Thomas P Essex
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98136  (Online Only)
Perhaps this involves death, chronic illness, substance dependence, family discord, infertility, or marital difficulties.
Life is unpredictable and difficult at times. Things don’t always work out the way we planned or expected they would. When we find ourselves out of balance and upset; it can be helpful to talk about our thoughts and feelings with someone who will listen. In a safe space, it will be easier to consider what is working for you and what is not. I’d like to offer you that safe space and to help you by listening and discussing your situation and experience. I believe in the strength and resiliency of each individual. I know you possess the power to regain balance in your life and I’d like to help you do that.
Perhaps this involves death, chronic illness, substance dependence, family discord, infertility, or marital difficulties.
Life is unpredictable and difficult at times. Things don’t always work out the way we planned or expected they would. When we find ourselves out of balance and upset; it can be helpful to talk about our thoughts and feelings with someone who will listen. In a safe space, it will be easier to consider what is working for you and what is not. I’d like to offer you that safe space and to help you by listening and discussing your situation and experience. I believe in the strength and resiliency of each individual. I know you possess the power to regain balance in your life and I’d like to help you do that.
(206) 401-8627 View (206) 401-8627
Photo of Cassie Rush, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Cassie Rush
Counselor, LMHC, SUDPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I invite you to begin working towards a more fulfilling future. I believe that individuals are striving to grow, and that everyone has a unique path toward change. Focusing on providing a warm and non-judgmental environment, I listen with empathy, compassion and patience. I am experienced in addressing the concerns that my clients bring and I offer additional expertise in treatment of depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship challenges and addictions. I have over 17 years of experience in the field working with both youth and adults.
I invite you to begin working towards a more fulfilling future. I believe that individuals are striving to grow, and that everyone has a unique path toward change. Focusing on providing a warm and non-judgmental environment, I listen with empathy, compassion and patience. I am experienced in addressing the concerns that my clients bring and I offer additional expertise in treatment of depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship challenges and addictions. I have over 17 years of experience in the field working with both youth and adults.
(206) 207-9684 View (206) 207-9684
Photo of Ashley Jones in Seattle, WA
Ashley Jones
MA, LMHCA, LMFTA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include women's issues, body image and self-esteem struggles, depression, anxiety, trauma, religious trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, grief and loss, bipolar disorder, life transitions, and substance abuse.
Being a therapist is my passion and I consider it an honor to be able to work with everyone of my clients. My passion for being a therapist come from my own healing journey. I understand what it is like to struggle. I also know what it is like to find peace through healing.
My areas of expertise include women's issues, body image and self-esteem struggles, depression, anxiety, trauma, religious trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, grief and loss, bipolar disorder, life transitions, and substance abuse.
Being a therapist is my passion and I consider it an honor to be able to work with everyone of my clients. My passion for being a therapist come from my own healing journey. I understand what it is like to struggle. I also know what it is like to find peace through healing.
(303) 529-6355 View (303) 529-6355
Photo of Daniel Kelley-Petersen, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Daniel Kelley-Petersen
Counselor, MAEd, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals and couples using mindfulness-based techniques and practices that focus on grief, loss, anxiety, depression, men's health and wellness, career concerns, marital and premarital topics, and addiction.
Seeking out counseling is a courageous act of support that you give yourself and is a challenging and rewarding process that is full of support and deep exploration. I am excited to talk with you about what you are experiencing and how to move forward through the challenges you are facing today.
I work with individuals and couples using mindfulness-based techniques and practices that focus on grief, loss, anxiety, depression, men's health and wellness, career concerns, marital and premarital topics, and addiction.
Seeking out counseling is a courageous act of support that you give yourself and is a challenging and rewarding process that is full of support and deep exploration. I am excited to talk with you about what you are experiencing and how to move forward through the challenges you are facing today.
(206) 693-4889 View (206) 693-4889
Photo of Carmina Chang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Carmina Chang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
My patients are usually hard working adults who have run into some tough times or are experiencing difficult emotional issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and addictions. I focus on using a strengths-based and harm reduction approach, which views each person as an individual with unique strengths and challenges. Using this approach values the person and facilitates a customized treatment plan for the individual. My role is not to judge you or your behaviors, but to act as an independent consultant for improving your mental well-being and quality of life.
My patients are usually hard working adults who have run into some tough times or are experiencing difficult emotional issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and addictions. I focus on using a strengths-based and harm reduction approach, which views each person as an individual with unique strengths and challenges. Using this approach values the person and facilitates a customized treatment plan for the individual. My role is not to judge you or your behaviors, but to act as an independent consultant for improving your mental well-being and quality of life.
(206) 565-1585 View (206) 565-1585
Photo of Carolann Freedman in Seattle, WA
Carolann Freedman
MA, LMHC, NCC, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
I have treated many people with social anxiety, and am also a bereavement therapist.
As a clinical therapist, I help people who are struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression and loss. I teach my clients to practice what I call "the reverse golden rule": treat yourself as you would treat others! We are often so critical of ourselves, while with a friend we would be kind, supportive, compassionate. My 20+ years of experience have given me the tools to work using an eclectic approach that I tailor to each client. I offer a comfortable, safe environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, where you can feel heard, understood and validated.
I have treated many people with social anxiety, and am also a bereavement therapist.
As a clinical therapist, I help people who are struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression and loss. I teach my clients to practice what I call "the reverse golden rule": treat yourself as you would treat others! We are often so critical of ourselves, while with a friend we would be kind, supportive, compassionate. My 20+ years of experience have given me the tools to work using an eclectic approach that I tailor to each client. I offer a comfortable, safe environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, where you can feel heard, understood and validated.
(206) 999-3883 View (206) 999-3883
Photo of Craig Santerre, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Craig Santerre
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122
I enjoy working with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and concerns. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, life stressors, work or relationship dissatisfaction, grief, the impact from trauma, trouble adjusting to life transitions or illness, sleep problems, OCD, phobias, substance use issues or some other problem? I want to help you reach your optimal health, which may include both mental and physical health goals. I know it can be difficult to share such personal experiences with a new person, so it’s important to me to create a trusting bond to work on your concerns.
I enjoy working with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and concerns. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, life stressors, work or relationship dissatisfaction, grief, the impact from trauma, trouble adjusting to life transitions or illness, sleep problems, OCD, phobias, substance use issues or some other problem? I want to help you reach your optimal health, which may include both mental and physical health goals. I know it can be difficult to share such personal experiences with a new person, so it’s important to me to create a trusting bond to work on your concerns.
(206) 567-1117 View (206) 567-1117
Photo of Joe Vr Gobunquin, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Joe Vr Gobunquin
Counselor, MA LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98188  (Online Only)
My work with clients include: Trauma, Anxiety, Phobia, ADHD in adults, coping with disabilities, coping with chronic illness, cultural adjustment, bereavement, discrimination, anti-oppression issues, immigrant and refugee issues, aging issues.
You don’t have to be alone. Today, your journey to healing begins. I aim to know my client. This allows me to undertand their issues, their needs and their goals. Growing up with disability provided an opportunity for me to rise above discrimination, bullying, racism, oppression, marginalization, anxiety, depression, and face life’s unending challenges. I am fluent and can provide therapy in three languages fluently, English, Ilokano, Tagalog. I am trained in Eastern and Western approaches. I use evidenced based treatment interventions including but not limited to EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness Approach.
My work with clients include: Trauma, Anxiety, Phobia, ADHD in adults, coping with disabilities, coping with chronic illness, cultural adjustment, bereavement, discrimination, anti-oppression issues, immigrant and refugee issues, aging issues.
You don’t have to be alone. Today, your journey to healing begins. I aim to know my client. This allows me to undertand their issues, their needs and their goals. Growing up with disability provided an opportunity for me to rise above discrimination, bullying, racism, oppression, marginalization, anxiety, depression, and face life’s unending challenges. I am fluent and can provide therapy in three languages fluently, English, Ilokano, Tagalog. I am trained in Eastern and Western approaches. I use evidenced based treatment interventions including but not limited to EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness Approach.
(206) 984-2859 View (206) 984-2859
Photo of Makiko Guji, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Makiko Guji
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals and couples over 25 to help them with variety of issues including anxiety and stress, relationship, grief and loss, cultural adjustment, parenting, careers, and spiritual growth.
As you are in the process of looking for a therapist, you may already be half-way through resolving your issues. It is said that client's readiness and willingness to make changes is the strongest indicator of successful therapy outcome. As a therapist, I will accompany you in the journey of actualizing your fullest potential by assisting you to develop internal and external resources such as the sense of freedom, choices, healthy sense of self, responsibility, managing life balance, and strong support systems and relationships.
I work with individuals and couples over 25 to help them with variety of issues including anxiety and stress, relationship, grief and loss, cultural adjustment, parenting, careers, and spiritual growth.
As you are in the process of looking for a therapist, you may already be half-way through resolving your issues. It is said that client's readiness and willingness to make changes is the strongest indicator of successful therapy outcome. As a therapist, I will accompany you in the journey of actualizing your fullest potential by assisting you to develop internal and external resources such as the sense of freedom, choices, healthy sense of self, responsibility, managing life balance, and strong support systems and relationships.
(206) 370-4237 View (206) 370-4237
Photo of Jaime Moss, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Jaime Moss
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
Deafness and hearing loss are also an area I specialize in.
Life not quite what you expected? Come in and we can turn it around together. I have training and experience with a variety of issues including substance and non-substance addictions, deafness and hearing loss, relationship problems, depression, anxiety, adjusting to life changes, grief and loss, divorce, identifying and evolving toward life goals. Intimacy, improving self-esteem, self-confidence, and ability to communicate are often areas that people chose to work on. Sharing your life with another can be joyful and difficult. Therapy is a neutral place to explore the relationship.
Deafness and hearing loss are also an area I specialize in.
Life not quite what you expected? Come in and we can turn it around together. I have training and experience with a variety of issues including substance and non-substance addictions, deafness and hearing loss, relationship problems, depression, anxiety, adjusting to life changes, grief and loss, divorce, identifying and evolving toward life goals. Intimacy, improving self-esteem, self-confidence, and ability to communicate are often areas that people chose to work on. Sharing your life with another can be joyful and difficult. Therapy is a neutral place to explore the relationship.
(206) 278-3439 View (206) 278-3439
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.