Photo of Kevin Klevjer, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Kevin Klevjer
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98134
I am especially drawn to work with individuals struggling with relationship issues, grief, and with those whom have suffered under spiritual abuse.
Depression, anxiety, and the impact of trauma in our life and story often prevents us from living the life we yearn for. Martin Buber once said, “All real living is meeting.” We humans seem built for connection, for meeting, for encounter. We thrive when we are able to deeply see and be seen by another. Yet, all humans also experience barriers to connection. How can psychotherapy help? Psychotherapy can become a place to experience belonging and attunement, to discover ways there have been maladaptive patterns of disconnection in your life, and to imagine new ways of living that will bring you relational healing.
I am especially drawn to work with individuals struggling with relationship issues, grief, and with those whom have suffered under spiritual abuse.
Depression, anxiety, and the impact of trauma in our life and story often prevents us from living the life we yearn for. Martin Buber once said, “All real living is meeting.” We humans seem built for connection, for meeting, for encounter. We thrive when we are able to deeply see and be seen by another. Yet, all humans also experience barriers to connection. How can psychotherapy help? Psychotherapy can become a place to experience belonging and attunement, to discover ways there have been maladaptive patterns of disconnection in your life, and to imagine new ways of living that will bring you relational healing.
(206) 207-5518 View (206) 207-5518
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 Ben Watson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Ben Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98117
My training and experience has primarily been with teens and adults experiencing a wide array of topics including sexual abuse, complicated grief, religious trauma, anxiety, family conflict, depression, loss, and identify exploration.
The greatest and most freeing gifts you can give yourself are self-exploration and compassion. Together, you and I can work collaboratively to further develop these qualities and foster your innate resilience. My goal is for you to feel safe, challenged, and empowered during our time together. The sheer fact that you are seeking support demonstrates an immense strength and courage. As a psychotherapist, I aim to create a non-judgmental, open-minded, and secure environment for clients to explore their feelings candidly and honestly. I utilize a variety of techniques and tailor treatment to the unique needs of the client.
My training and experience has primarily been with teens and adults experiencing a wide array of topics including sexual abuse, complicated grief, religious trauma, anxiety, family conflict, depression, loss, and identify exploration.
The greatest and most freeing gifts you can give yourself are self-exploration and compassion. Together, you and I can work collaboratively to further develop these qualities and foster your innate resilience. My goal is for you to feel safe, challenged, and empowered during our time together. The sheer fact that you are seeking support demonstrates an immense strength and courage. As a psychotherapist, I aim to create a non-judgmental, open-minded, and secure environment for clients to explore their feelings candidly and honestly. I utilize a variety of techniques and tailor treatment to the unique needs of the client.
(425) 287-6156 View (425) 287-6156
Photo of Dr. Michael Drane, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Dr. Michael Drane
Counselor, LMHC, PhD, MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Change can look scary, and feel overwhelming. The goal is to help people move through the end of a relationship and create a second start for themselves. This means allowing room for grief while making possibilities for the future. Lets work together in making lasting change for you.
Change can look scary, and feel overwhelming. The goal is to help people move through the end of a relationship and create a second start for themselves. This means allowing room for grief while making possibilities for the future. Lets work together in making lasting change for you.
(206) 339-6148 View (206) 339-6148
Photo of Mark E. Mirante LMFT, Counseling on Green Lake, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Mark E. Mirante LMFT, Counseling on Green Lake
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
I am a licensed Marriage (Couple) and Family Therapist and an American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy Clinical Fellow and Approved Supervisor with over 30 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families from a broad range of ethnic, cultural, physical health, gender, socio-economic and sexual diversity. My experience includes many persons and families challenged by high conflict and multiple interlaced problems. I have extensive experience helping children, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and the impact of grief, trauma and challenging relationships and/or a family member's chemical dependency.
I am a licensed Marriage (Couple) and Family Therapist and an American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy Clinical Fellow and Approved Supervisor with over 30 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families from a broad range of ethnic, cultural, physical health, gender, socio-economic and sexual diversity. My experience includes many persons and families challenged by high conflict and multiple interlaced problems. I have extensive experience helping children, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and the impact of grief, trauma and challenging relationships and/or a family member's chemical dependency.
(253) 214-3229 View (253) 214-3229
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 John A DeBerry, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
John A DeBerry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
As a licensed psychologist providing therapy to individual adults, 18 years and older, I work from a primarily person-centered, humanistic, and interpersonal orientation in psychotherapy. I focus on clients’ unique strengths, helping them to develop skills that can remove obstacles in their lives. Together, we work through a variety of issues, including depression, excessive worry, social anxiety, interpersonal difficulties, family issues, educational stress, grief, and identity issues.
As a licensed psychologist providing therapy to individual adults, 18 years and older, I work from a primarily person-centered, humanistic, and interpersonal orientation in psychotherapy. I focus on clients’ unique strengths, helping them to develop skills that can remove obstacles in their lives. Together, we work through a variety of issues, including depression, excessive worry, social anxiety, interpersonal difficulties, family issues, educational stress, grief, and identity issues.
(206) 880-0977 View (206) 880-0977
Photo of Gabriel Guth, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Gabriel Guth
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Gabe Guth and I'm so happy you're here! Sometimes the hardest part about self-care is just getting started and you've already completed that often difficult first step. I love working with individuals who have never been in therapy before to help demystify the process and create an understanding of why therapy can be so effective. Currently, I work with individuals experiencing concerns such as loss, depression, shame, social anxiety, and life transitions such as starting school or changing careers.
Hello, my name is Gabe Guth and I'm so happy you're here! Sometimes the hardest part about self-care is just getting started and you've already completed that often difficult first step. I love working with individuals who have never been in therapy before to help demystify the process and create an understanding of why therapy can be so effective. Currently, I work with individuals experiencing concerns such as loss, depression, shame, social anxiety, and life transitions such as starting school or changing careers.
(425) 390-8672 View (425) 390-8672
Photo of Derek McClure, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Derek McClure
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126
Waitlist for new clients
Experiencing challenges and distress is an inherent aspect of life, as is our ability to access the resources and strengths to meet these challenges. We have developed patterned ways of being and thinking that may not serve us the way they used to resulting in anxiety, restlessness, depression, withdrawal, sleep disruption, relational conflict, loss of interest in life, or dissatisfaction with work to name a few. I view therapy as a hopeful process of self-discovery and meaning-making that leads to lasting changes including improved mental and emotional well-being and behavior change. I offer individual therapy for adults and teens.
Experiencing challenges and distress is an inherent aspect of life, as is our ability to access the resources and strengths to meet these challenges. We have developed patterned ways of being and thinking that may not serve us the way they used to resulting in anxiety, restlessness, depression, withdrawal, sleep disruption, relational conflict, loss of interest in life, or dissatisfaction with work to name a few. I view therapy as a hopeful process of self-discovery and meaning-making that leads to lasting changes including improved mental and emotional well-being and behavior change. I offer individual therapy for adults and teens.
(206) 866-6299 View (206) 866-6299
Photo of James E Bederaux-Cayne, Counselor in Seattle, WA
James E Bederaux-Cayne
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116
In addition, I have specialized interest, training, and experience in child and adolescent therapy, early childhood mental health issues, marriage & family therapy, complex grief, disaster & PTSD counseling, mediation & high conflict family problems.
I will actively use my training and experience to help you meet your needs & goals. Successful treatment is a direct result of mutual efforts, honesty, respect, and collaboration. Life is full of transitions. Many transitions require skill to navigate. Some happen easily and others require thought, planning and occasionally outside help. I regularly help people manage depression, anxiety, life & work transitions, relationship problems, the processing of and recovery from trauma, and developmental issues throughout the lifespan.
In addition, I have specialized interest, training, and experience in child and adolescent therapy, early childhood mental health issues, marriage & family therapy, complex grief, disaster & PTSD counseling, mediation & high conflict family problems.
I will actively use my training and experience to help you meet your needs & goals. Successful treatment is a direct result of mutual efforts, honesty, respect, and collaboration. Life is full of transitions. Many transitions require skill to navigate. Some happen easily and others require thought, planning and occasionally outside help. I regularly help people manage depression, anxiety, life & work transitions, relationship problems, the processing of and recovery from trauma, and developmental issues throughout the lifespan.
(253) 220-6158 View (253) 220-6158
Photo of Matthew Ponsford, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Matthew Ponsford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116
I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing therapy and consultation for individual clients in West Seattle. I take a collaborative, strengths-based approach to working with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or facing difficult life transitions. Sometimes therapy can be about seeking solutions to problems; often the more important work is in creating space to sit with and digest the parts of our experience that we generally try to avoid.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing therapy and consultation for individual clients in West Seattle. I take a collaborative, strengths-based approach to working with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or facing difficult life transitions. Sometimes therapy can be about seeking solutions to problems; often the more important work is in creating space to sit with and digest the parts of our experience that we generally try to avoid.
(206) 745-5896 View (206) 745-5896
Photo of Spencer Wallis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Spencer Wallis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
Waitlist for new clients
I work with couples and individuals who wish to address emotional, relational, and identity conflict. This involves tailoring my treatment approach to the unique needs of each client. In my couple and family work, I aim to nurture clients' skills related to intimacy, shared understanding, communication, and connectedness, while respecting each partner's need for independent growth. I believe in the healing power of human connection, and that this bond can be a path to fulfillment and meaning in everyday life. My work with individuals addresses issues related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, sexuality, dating, and career.
I work with couples and individuals who wish to address emotional, relational, and identity conflict. This involves tailoring my treatment approach to the unique needs of each client. In my couple and family work, I aim to nurture clients' skills related to intimacy, shared understanding, communication, and connectedness, while respecting each partner's need for independent growth. I believe in the healing power of human connection, and that this bond can be a path to fulfillment and meaning in everyday life. My work with individuals addresses issues related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, sexuality, dating, and career.
(253) 509-7168 View (253) 509-7168
Photo of Joseph David Williams, Social Worker Associate in Seattle, WA
Joseph David Williams
Social Worker Associate, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I work with individuals aged 13 and up who are struggling with anxiety, depression, psychosis, personality disorders, chronic health conditions, grief and loss, and suicidality. I seek to help people who are dealing with these issues create a place of peace and safety within themselves so that they might learn to love life and endure loss.
I work with individuals aged 13 and up who are struggling with anxiety, depression, psychosis, personality disorders, chronic health conditions, grief and loss, and suicidality. I seek to help people who are dealing with these issues create a place of peace and safety within themselves so that they might learn to love life and endure loss.
(206) 496-0687 View (206) 496-0687
Photo of Ron M Defoe, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Ron M Defoe
Counselor, MACP, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
Shadow work; Generational Trauma; Cultural Trauma; Systemic Trauma; Depression; Career counseling; Body-awareness; Pain; Grief; Loss; Relationship; Family; Life transition; Anxiety; Men's issues; Burnout; self improvement; self-esteem; indigenous trauma; childhood.
Hi! Here is a bit about me and what I offer. I believe continuous self improvement is a must in life, so I’m always seeking ways to further my self (i.e. mentally, physically, spiritually). I call this “A journey of self-cultivation.” The journey has consistently helped me overcome roadblocks. These roadblocks are always internal and are due to non-unified parts of my self. The unification brings deeper self-understanding or self-mastery. Self-mastery gets me out of my way as I work towards my greatest aspiration. It is not always easy, but it’s fun. I wouldn’t change a thing. I can offer you the same.
Shadow work; Generational Trauma; Cultural Trauma; Systemic Trauma; Depression; Career counseling; Body-awareness; Pain; Grief; Loss; Relationship; Family; Life transition; Anxiety; Men's issues; Burnout; self improvement; self-esteem; indigenous trauma; childhood.
Hi! Here is a bit about me and what I offer. I believe continuous self improvement is a must in life, so I’m always seeking ways to further my self (i.e. mentally, physically, spiritually). I call this “A journey of self-cultivation.” The journey has consistently helped me overcome roadblocks. These roadblocks are always internal and are due to non-unified parts of my self. The unification brings deeper self-understanding or self-mastery. Self-mastery gets me out of my way as I work towards my greatest aspiration. It is not always easy, but it’s fun. I wouldn’t change a thing. I can offer you the same.
(206) 672-3329 View (206) 672-3329
Photo of Steven Kubacki, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Steven Kubacki
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
I have been providing psychotherapy and consulting services since 1993 for adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. My practice is quite diverse and involves the following services: (1) Treatment of PTSD, trauma, bereavement, relationship issues, depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, borderline disorder, ADHD, bipolar, conduct disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Asperger’s. (2) Treatment of chronic pain, quality of life issues, and psychology problems due to debilitating or acute illnesses, such as cancer and auto-immune diseases. (3) Personal growth, spiritual development, and wellness counseling. (4) Sports psychology to improve performance and motivation. (5) Cognitive, personality, learning, and pre-surgical assessments.
I have been providing psychotherapy and consulting services since 1993 for adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. My practice is quite diverse and involves the following services: (1) Treatment of PTSD, trauma, bereavement, relationship issues, depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, borderline disorder, ADHD, bipolar, conduct disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Asperger’s. (2) Treatment of chronic pain, quality of life issues, and psychology problems due to debilitating or acute illnesses, such as cancer and auto-immune diseases. (3) Personal growth, spiritual development, and wellness counseling. (4) Sports psychology to improve performance and motivation. (5) Cognitive, personality, learning, and pre-surgical assessments.
(206) 922-8133 View (206) 922-8133
Photo of Jonathan Coopersmith, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Jonathan Coopersmith
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I work with issues related to codependency, unwanted sexual behaviors, major life transitions, identity shifts, grief and loss, and sexual abuse.
Counseling is a space where we get to focus on helping you move towards a life that is more fulfilling, meaningful, and connected. I work with people struggling with anxious thoughts, depression, or challenging relationships. Some are trying to navigate dating, intimacy, and partnership. Some have experienced spiritual abuse or are coming out of religious systems that have left them confused and even traumatized. Some of the people I work with are unpacking their past and trying to be free of difficult patterns. Many people are just stuck and want some help figuring out why. Counseling helps you get unstuck.
I work with issues related to codependency, unwanted sexual behaviors, major life transitions, identity shifts, grief and loss, and sexual abuse.
Counseling is a space where we get to focus on helping you move towards a life that is more fulfilling, meaningful, and connected. I work with people struggling with anxious thoughts, depression, or challenging relationships. Some are trying to navigate dating, intimacy, and partnership. Some have experienced spiritual abuse or are coming out of religious systems that have left them confused and even traumatized. Some of the people I work with are unpacking their past and trying to be free of difficult patterns. Many people are just stuck and want some help figuring out why. Counseling helps you get unstuck.
(425) 215-0186 View (425) 215-0186
Photo of Meluleki Ncube, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Meluleki Ncube
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MHP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
Whether you are struggling emotionally, spiritually, or in relationships, with God’s help through Christian counseling, you can experience meaningful change. I offer a compassionate, faith-based approach to help you overcome challenges and achieve mental, physical, and spiritual wellness. If you’re dealing with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, abandonment, relationship problems, grief, or other concerns, I would be honored to walk with you. Through guided, professional support, my hope is for you to find balance, peace, and strength in Christ.
Whether you are struggling emotionally, spiritually, or in relationships, with God’s help through Christian counseling, you can experience meaningful change. I offer a compassionate, faith-based approach to help you overcome challenges and achieve mental, physical, and spiritual wellness. If you’re dealing with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, abandonment, relationship problems, grief, or other concerns, I would be honored to walk with you. Through guided, professional support, my hope is for you to find balance, peace, and strength in Christ.
(206) 800-8465 View (206) 800-8465
Photo of Jeff Watson, Mental Health Counselor in Seattle, WA
Jeff Watson
Mental Health Counselor, EdD, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
I work with a wide range of clients, many of whom share similar challenges—work and organizational stress, health concerns, grief and loss; or are experiencing other difficulties, such as PTSD and other traumas (including compassion fatigue), depression, or anxiety. My approach is person-centered, focusing on you, the client, and the moment-to-moment engagement, discovering insights together. I can help you discover insights into barriers, and the constructive solutions to overcoming those barriers. Each person has the right to live a life free of negative thoughts and experiences—a life of healthy well-being.
I work with a wide range of clients, many of whom share similar challenges—work and organizational stress, health concerns, grief and loss; or are experiencing other difficulties, such as PTSD and other traumas (including compassion fatigue), depression, or anxiety. My approach is person-centered, focusing on you, the client, and the moment-to-moment engagement, discovering insights together. I can help you discover insights into barriers, and the constructive solutions to overcoming those barriers. Each person has the right to live a life free of negative thoughts and experiences—a life of healthy well-being.
(425) 307-4162 View (425) 307-4162
Photo of Matthew Monroe, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Matthew Monroe
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals and couples with ADHD, high-functioning autism, Nice Guy & Nice Gal Syndrome, codependency, addiction, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, and grief. If you feel stuck and want to create new patterns in your life, let's talk. We can schedule a free 15-minute consult video call to chat about what you're looking for in therapy and to see if we'd be a good fit.
I specialize in helping individuals and couples with ADHD, high-functioning autism, Nice Guy & Nice Gal Syndrome, codependency, addiction, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, and grief. If you feel stuck and want to create new patterns in your life, let's talk. We can schedule a free 15-minute consult video call to chat about what you're looking for in therapy and to see if we'd be a good fit.
(509) 571-2790 View (509) 571-2790
Photo of Bob Viola Therapy, PLLC, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Bob Viola Therapy, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
I have experience and enjoy working with clients of various cultures who are seeking help in working through life challenges around anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship conflicts, past trauma, self esteem, and grief. If you are currently struggling with any of these problems and are not sure how to address them, I can help. Together we can work to explore the issues that are getting in the way of a more happy and productive lifestyle in an environment that is safe, comfortable, and conducive to achieving your goals for counseling.
I have experience and enjoy working with clients of various cultures who are seeking help in working through life challenges around anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship conflicts, past trauma, self esteem, and grief. If you are currently struggling with any of these problems and are not sure how to address them, I can help. Together we can work to explore the issues that are getting in the way of a more happy and productive lifestyle in an environment that is safe, comfortable, and conducive to achieving your goals for counseling.
(206) 557-6614 View (206) 557-6614

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.