Grief Therapists in Spruce Grove, AB

Photo of Lynette Beauchamp, BSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynette Beauchamp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
Feeling overwhelmed! Not sure what to do or where to start? I believe the purpose of counselling is to help you develop the necessary skills to help get you through difficult times. I have 15+ years of expertise in treating depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, relationship issues, workplace issues, grief/ loss, self-esteem, and personality-related problems. We will explore how to change negative thought patterns, deal with difficult emotions, explore new perspectives, create behavioral changes, improve self worth, enhance relationships communication and connection and create a more meaningful life.
Feeling overwhelmed! Not sure what to do or where to start? I believe the purpose of counselling is to help you develop the necessary skills to help get you through difficult times. I have 15+ years of expertise in treating depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, relationship issues, workplace issues, grief/ loss, self-esteem, and personality-related problems. We will explore how to change negative thought patterns, deal with difficult emotions, explore new perspectives, create behavioral changes, improve self worth, enhance relationships communication and connection and create a more meaningful life.
(780) 962-0661 View (780) 962-0661
Photo of Cyndi Millett, MC, Psychologist
Cyndi Millett
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
My specialized areas include Trauma-Informed Care, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Grief Recovery Method (GRM), Pragmatic Experiential Therapy-for Couples (PET-C) Level 2, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT).
I see healing as a holistic, sacred process, deserving honour and witness. I value genuine relationships, while inviting humour into the process. I use an integrative approach to support unique needs and healing. I enjoy working with a range of ages and concerns such as anxiety, stress, lifespan adjustments, relationship concerns, parenting, trauma processing, grief processing, self-esteem, mens & women's issues, character development, caregivers support, frontline workers support. I also enjoy supporting people through spiritual crisis, growth, deconstructing, supporting members of clergy, and spiritual consulting.
My specialized areas include Trauma-Informed Care, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Grief Recovery Method (GRM), Pragmatic Experiential Therapy-for Couples (PET-C) Level 2, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT).
I see healing as a holistic, sacred process, deserving honour and witness. I value genuine relationships, while inviting humour into the process. I use an integrative approach to support unique needs and healing. I enjoy working with a range of ages and concerns such as anxiety, stress, lifespan adjustments, relationship concerns, parenting, trauma processing, grief processing, self-esteem, mens & women's issues, character development, caregivers support, frontline workers support. I also enjoy supporting people through spiritual crisis, growth, deconstructing, supporting members of clergy, and spiritual consulting.
(587) 805-0768 View (587) 805-0768
Photo of Dora Lee, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Dora Lee
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
My intention in counselling is to create and maintain a safe space which fosters self-discovery for my clients. I respect you and accept where you are. I am honoured to join you as you grapple with challenging life issues, such as grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transition or stress. I love to work with adults and seniors. Also, I provide counselling in English and Chinese (Cantonese).
My intention in counselling is to create and maintain a safe space which fosters self-discovery for my clients. I respect you and accept where you are. I am honoured to join you as you grapple with challenging life issues, such as grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transition or stress. I love to work with adults and seniors. Also, I provide counselling in English and Chinese (Cantonese).
(587) 416-5312 View (587) 416-5312
Photo of Linda Bao, MSW, RSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Bao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Spruce Grove, AB T7X  (Online Only)
My aim is to help clients live a life full of meaning, connection, purpose, and vitality. Working in the Edmonton community for over 15 years, I specialize in trauma, burnout, and grief, but provide services for a wide range of concerns. As a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) with training in Hakomi Therapy, I honour the mind-body connection and primarily use somatic/body-oriented approaches to healing. I believe that in order to achieve true lasting change, we must work with the body, as the body is where we store our unprocessed emotions, core wounds, and traumas. NOTE: Services provided in English only.
My aim is to help clients live a life full of meaning, connection, purpose, and vitality. Working in the Edmonton community for over 15 years, I specialize in trauma, burnout, and grief, but provide services for a wide range of concerns. As a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) with training in Hakomi Therapy, I honour the mind-body connection and primarily use somatic/body-oriented approaches to healing. I believe that in order to achieve true lasting change, we must work with the body, as the body is where we store our unprocessed emotions, core wounds, and traumas. NOTE: Services provided in English only.
(587) 801-1206 View (587) 801-1206
Photo of Morgan Jefferson, MC, RPsych, CHT, Psychologist
Morgan Jefferson
Psychologist, MC, RPsych, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
Certifications include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and The Grief Recovery Method.
I work with individual adults across the lifespan who are interested in holistic mental health. I use mindfulness as a pillar of my practice and strive to embody this and the other Hakomi (Mindful Somatic Psychotherapy) principles of organicity, holism, non-violence, and unity. Embracing the mind-body connection may help facilitate new beginnings and lay a different foundation through noticing patterns, creating new habits, and freeing limiting beliefs. Additional specialized training and interests are in attachment theory (relationships), polyvagal theory (working with the nervous system), and post-traumatic growth and recovery.
Certifications include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and The Grief Recovery Method.
I work with individual adults across the lifespan who are interested in holistic mental health. I use mindfulness as a pillar of my practice and strive to embody this and the other Hakomi (Mindful Somatic Psychotherapy) principles of organicity, holism, non-violence, and unity. Embracing the mind-body connection may help facilitate new beginnings and lay a different foundation through noticing patterns, creating new habits, and freeing limiting beliefs. Additional specialized training and interests are in attachment theory (relationships), polyvagal theory (working with the nervous system), and post-traumatic growth and recovery.
(587) 807-0760 View (587) 807-0760
Photo of Sherri Billey, CT, Counsellor
Sherri Billey
Counsellor, CT
Verified Verified
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
I have a variety of education and life experiences that includes anxiety, depression, ADHD, separation, divorce, abuse, suicide, anger, grief and loss, parenting, postpartum depression.
Hello! I'm so glad you stopped by. I consider it a sacred privilege and honour to sit with you and be allowed into your world where I will walk with you into whatever challenges bring you to counselling. Therapy with me is client-centered where we are equals and you are the expert on being you and we work together to help you live your best life and address the challenges that bring you to therapy. I use a variety of modalities that are chosen to best suit you and your needs for therapy. I bring my education and life experience to our time together where you will find me hopeful, relatable, warm, and genuine.
I have a variety of education and life experiences that includes anxiety, depression, ADHD, separation, divorce, abuse, suicide, anger, grief and loss, parenting, postpartum depression.
Hello! I'm so glad you stopped by. I consider it a sacred privilege and honour to sit with you and be allowed into your world where I will walk with you into whatever challenges bring you to counselling. Therapy with me is client-centered where we are equals and you are the expert on being you and we work together to help you live your best life and address the challenges that bring you to therapy. I use a variety of modalities that are chosen to best suit you and your needs for therapy. I bring my education and life experience to our time together where you will find me hopeful, relatable, warm, and genuine.
(587) 741-0007 View (587) 741-0007
Photo of David Gillen, Pre-Licensed Professional
David Gillen
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
I love to work with others and combine ideas. I believe something collaborative will always be greater than the sum of its individual parts. Helping others has always given me a lot of satisfaction. In a therapeutic setting, working with clients as they overcome challenges helps me feel like I’m making a difference. I am inclined toward clients dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, or identity concerns. I help a variety of populations including late teens, adults, seniors, as well as neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ communities.
I love to work with others and combine ideas. I believe something collaborative will always be greater than the sum of its individual parts. Helping others has always given me a lot of satisfaction. In a therapeutic setting, working with clients as they overcome challenges helps me feel like I’m making a difference. I am inclined toward clients dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, or identity concerns. I help a variety of populations including late teens, adults, seniors, as well as neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ communities.
(587) 841-0557 View (587) 841-0557
Photo of Melodie J. Brousseau, RPsych, MC, BSc, Psychologist
Melodie J. Brousseau
Psychologist, RPsych, MC, BSc
Verified Verified
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
I am a Registered Psychologist, working in Spruce Grove and Parkland County. I provide a client-centered approach in my counselling sessions, and love to work with clients to identify unhelpful thought processes, and develop helpful cognitions, behaviours, and strategies. I am very passionate about working with concerns related to depression, anxiety, grief, behaviours, emotional regulation, trauma, and psychoeducation. I have previously worked with children with Autism, and more recently with individuals who have experienced or witnessed domestic violence.
I am a Registered Psychologist, working in Spruce Grove and Parkland County. I provide a client-centered approach in my counselling sessions, and love to work with clients to identify unhelpful thought processes, and develop helpful cognitions, behaviours, and strategies. I am very passionate about working with concerns related to depression, anxiety, grief, behaviours, emotional regulation, trauma, and psychoeducation. I have previously worked with children with Autism, and more recently with individuals who have experienced or witnessed domestic violence.
(780) 719-5121 View (780) 719-5121
Photo of Lindsey Johnson, BA, BEd , MACP, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Lindsey Johnson
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, BEd , MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
Areas of special interest include feminist issues, reproductive mental health, trauma, grief, and bereavement.
Facing life’s challenges alone can be overwhelming. I am committed to creating an open and safe environment for individuals to share, engage, learn, and reflect. Working from a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive approach, I strive to ensure that everyone I work with feels welcomed, understood, and valued. I believe that this is the way to heal and I invite the whole person: body, feelings, inner parts, and culture, into a non-judgmental space. Healing and wholeness are possible with empathy and connection.
Areas of special interest include feminist issues, reproductive mental health, trauma, grief, and bereavement.
Facing life’s challenges alone can be overwhelming. I am committed to creating an open and safe environment for individuals to share, engage, learn, and reflect. Working from a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive approach, I strive to ensure that everyone I work with feels welcomed, understood, and valued. I believe that this is the way to heal and I invite the whole person: body, feelings, inner parts, and culture, into a non-judgmental space. Healing and wholeness are possible with empathy and connection.
(587) 842-5258 View (587) 842-5258
Photo of Rev. Dana R McQuade - Gentlehealer Counselling Services, MC, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Gentlehealer Counselling Services
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
Dana has worked with clients from ages 8 and up and specializes in those who have experienced developmental traumas, such as sexual, physical & emotional abuse. Dana believes in matching the pace and personality of every client he works with and approaches every person with gentleness and compassion. You may be struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, difficult relationships, complex PTSD, personality (attachment) disorder, ADHD, grief/ loss, or insomnia. Dana offers a gentle approach to trauma, drawing from a variety of modalities: CBT, CBT-I (CBT for insomnia), EMDR, and EFT for couples.
Dana has worked with clients from ages 8 and up and specializes in those who have experienced developmental traumas, such as sexual, physical & emotional abuse. Dana believes in matching the pace and personality of every client he works with and approaches every person with gentleness and compassion. You may be struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, difficult relationships, complex PTSD, personality (attachment) disorder, ADHD, grief/ loss, or insomnia. Dana offers a gentle approach to trauma, drawing from a variety of modalities: CBT, CBT-I (CBT for insomnia), EMDR, and EFT for couples.
(587) 741-0467 View (587) 741-0467
Photo of Megan Godbeer, MC, Psychologist
Megan Godbeer
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
I have several areas of interest and experience, including grief and loss, trauma, play therapy, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
There are many reasons why people pursue counselling. Some want to address specific problematic behaviours. Others, long-term difficulties that have not yet been resolved. Some want to find alternate ways to cope while others want to discover more about themselves in order to live life more authentically. Whatever your concern, it is a privilege to support your personal therapeutic goals on your own self-development journey. I am a Registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists and a member of the Psychologists Association of Alberta.
I have several areas of interest and experience, including grief and loss, trauma, play therapy, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
There are many reasons why people pursue counselling. Some want to address specific problematic behaviours. Others, long-term difficulties that have not yet been resolved. Some want to find alternate ways to cope while others want to discover more about themselves in order to live life more authentically. Whatever your concern, it is a privilege to support your personal therapeutic goals on your own self-development journey. I am a Registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists and a member of the Psychologists Association of Alberta.
(780) 937-6463 View (780) 937-6463
Photo of Jayme Fath, MC, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Jayme Fath
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
Are you feeling anxious, or stuck while navigating a life change? Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth? Are you living with a sense of loss or disconnection and seeking a sense of meaning or purpose? As a clinician, I am dedicated to helping individuals like you navigate the ups and downs that life may bring. Why work with me? (1) Collaborative approach: we work together to create a treatment plan that suits your unique needs, values and goals. (2) Relational approach: a non-judgmental space for you to express yourself openly in your integrity. (3) Focused on sustaining meaningful change.
Are you feeling anxious, or stuck while navigating a life change? Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth? Are you living with a sense of loss or disconnection and seeking a sense of meaning or purpose? As a clinician, I am dedicated to helping individuals like you navigate the ups and downs that life may bring. Why work with me? (1) Collaborative approach: we work together to create a treatment plan that suits your unique needs, values and goals. (2) Relational approach: a non-judgmental space for you to express yourself openly in your integrity. (3) Focused on sustaining meaningful change.
Photo of Sasha Campbell, RPsych, Psychologist
Sasha Campbell
Psychologist, RPsych
Verified Verified
Spruce Grove, AB T7X  (Online Only)
I use a psychodynamic approach that helps to reprocess themes and negative cognitions that may have begun in childhood. I utilize inner child work / shadow work, EMDR, and mindfulness which helps to process depression, anxiety, trauma, C-PTSD, developmental traumas, narcissistic abuse, grief and bereavement, as well as general life transitions.
I use a psychodynamic approach that helps to reprocess themes and negative cognitions that may have begun in childhood. I utilize inner child work / shadow work, EMDR, and mindfulness which helps to process depression, anxiety, trauma, C-PTSD, developmental traumas, narcissistic abuse, grief and bereavement, as well as general life transitions.
(587) 907-8944 View (587) 907-8944
Photo of Tracey Nyhus - Resilience Psychological Services, RPsych, MC, BA, Psychologist
Resilience Psychological Services
Psychologist, RPsych, MC, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
I have experience working with PTSD, anxiety, depression, bariatric issues, grief and loss, and family violence.
Have you experienced trauma, abuse, or loss? Do you get triggered or feel numb or overwhelmed? Do you find yourself unable to sleep or lay awake at night worrying? Are you worn out with anxiety or depression and find it hard to find hope? I would be happy to support you on your journey of healing and help you uncover your unique strengths, values, and direction to engage in a life that is meaningful to you. I am optimistic, empathetic, and nonjudgmental and provide a safe, supportive space for adults, children, and couples. I have experience working with first responders, veterans, and RCMP, and I am a preferred provider for EPS.
I have experience working with PTSD, anxiety, depression, bariatric issues, grief and loss, and family violence.
Have you experienced trauma, abuse, or loss? Do you get triggered or feel numb or overwhelmed? Do you find yourself unable to sleep or lay awake at night worrying? Are you worn out with anxiety or depression and find it hard to find hope? I would be happy to support you on your journey of healing and help you uncover your unique strengths, values, and direction to engage in a life that is meaningful to you. I am optimistic, empathetic, and nonjudgmental and provide a safe, supportive space for adults, children, and couples. I have experience working with first responders, veterans, and RCMP, and I am a preferred provider for EPS.
(587) 804-4196 View (587) 804-4196
Photo of Grace Hussey, MDivStn, BSW RSW, IDCF, Registered Social Worker
Grace Hussey
Registered Social Worker, MDivStn, BSW RSW, IDCF
Verified Verified
Spruce Grove, AB T7X  (Online Only)
Accepting Clients. People today are often pressured to maintain a perfect home &/or professional life, meeting the needs of everyone else while ignoring their own. This can result in feeling stressed, overwhelmed, exhausted or like you are not enough. Even worse, if not dealt with this can lead to serious mental/emotional/physical health issues. No matter what you are facing, you are not alone. I have a 20+ yr background in addiction & mental health counseling. My focus is helping those coping with ADHD/depression/anxiety/burnout/ grief/work/relationship/family issues, your own or a parent/partner/child’s, disability/health issue.
Accepting Clients. People today are often pressured to maintain a perfect home &/or professional life, meeting the needs of everyone else while ignoring their own. This can result in feeling stressed, overwhelmed, exhausted or like you are not enough. Even worse, if not dealt with this can lead to serious mental/emotional/physical health issues. No matter what you are facing, you are not alone. I have a 20+ yr background in addiction & mental health counseling. My focus is helping those coping with ADHD/depression/anxiety/burnout/ grief/work/relationship/family issues, your own or a parent/partner/child’s, disability/health issue.
(587) 805-2442 View (587) 805-2442
Photo of Lorelei Hoyt, MC, Psychologist
Lorelei Hoyt
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
My areas of interest include complex trauma and grief, emotional regulation, personality disorders and their impact on families, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and interactions between physiological and psychological health.
I truly understand that "Life is what happens when you are making other plans” - Allen Saunders. If life’s other plans have left you distressed, fighting battles that seem to never end, or feeling defeated, you are not alone. I can help you make sense of your experiences and create a fulfilling life full of peace and joy again. When you reach for support to make sense of your world you can free yourself from underlying patterns and conflicts, and develop the insight and skills to empower yourself. Peace and contentment are attainable with the right help. Reaching out is the first step.
My areas of interest include complex trauma and grief, emotional regulation, personality disorders and their impact on families, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and interactions between physiological and psychological health.
I truly understand that "Life is what happens when you are making other plans” - Allen Saunders. If life’s other plans have left you distressed, fighting battles that seem to never end, or feeling defeated, you are not alone. I can help you make sense of your experiences and create a fulfilling life full of peace and joy again. When you reach for support to make sense of your world you can free yourself from underlying patterns and conflicts, and develop the insight and skills to empower yourself. Peace and contentment are attainable with the right help. Reaching out is the first step.
(587) 850-2967 View (587) 850-2967
Photo of Christine Carcoux, MC, RPsych, Psychologist
Christine Carcoux
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
Life isn't always easy and it doesn't always give us what we expect. We can find ourselves consumed with worry and spiraling thoughts or feeling so low and unmotivated, even getting out of bed seems tough. We can reel from the mental load and exhaustion that comes with chronic pain or chronic illness and feel overwhelmed or burdened with grief and loss or life transitions. We can be hard on ourselves and sometimes struggle to meet our goals. Things might feel hopeless - like they'll never get better. But you don't have to travel these roads alone.
Life isn't always easy and it doesn't always give us what we expect. We can find ourselves consumed with worry and spiraling thoughts or feeling so low and unmotivated, even getting out of bed seems tough. We can reel from the mental load and exhaustion that comes with chronic pain or chronic illness and feel overwhelmed or burdened with grief and loss or life transitions. We can be hard on ourselves and sometimes struggle to meet our goals. Things might feel hopeless - like they'll never get better. But you don't have to travel these roads alone.
(825) 809-5133 View (825) 809-5133
Photo of Jessica Bennett, MACP, BHSc, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Jessica Bennett
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MACP, BHSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
Welcome! I'm Jessica, a mother to three busy boys, including twins, and a big sports fan. As a therapist, I support clients who may be struggling to cope with the stressors of everyday life, navigate life transitions, manage relationship issues, move through grief and loss, cope with occupational stress, or process unresolved trauma. I work primarily with adults (individuals & couples), and specialize in therapy for first responder, public safety personnel, perinatal (pregnancy/postpartum), military, veteran, and healthcare/frontline populations.
Welcome! I'm Jessica, a mother to three busy boys, including twins, and a big sports fan. As a therapist, I support clients who may be struggling to cope with the stressors of everyday life, navigate life transitions, manage relationship issues, move through grief and loss, cope with occupational stress, or process unresolved trauma. I work primarily with adults (individuals & couples), and specialize in therapy for first responder, public safety personnel, perinatal (pregnancy/postpartum), military, veteran, and healthcare/frontline populations.
(825) 606-0927 View (825) 606-0927
Photo of Kubra Sansarlioglu, MA, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Kubra Sansarlioglu
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
Seeking professional help may feel intimidating, but it’s also an incredible act of bravery. As wonderfully stated by Brene Brown, “Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen”. In my years of practice, my clinical focus has been centred around individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, stress, self-esteem concerns, relationship dynamics, life transitions...etc.
Seeking professional help may feel intimidating, but it’s also an incredible act of bravery. As wonderfully stated by Brene Brown, “Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen”. In my years of practice, my clinical focus has been centred around individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, stress, self-esteem concerns, relationship dynamics, life transitions...etc.
(587) 602-5669 View (587) 602-5669
Photo of Cindy Castillo Wilhelm, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cindy Castillo Wilhelm
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spruce Grove, AB T7X
Challenges with work-life balance, navigating change, burnout, and stress can dramatically affect your ability to thrive. These stressors often compound on another and can feel incredibly overwhelming. Transitions may also involve a sense of loss or grief, as it becomes necessary to rediscover your identity and align with new goals. I work with clients to regain balance, build confidence, and move forward with purpose. Through developing clarity around personal values and establishing boundaries that best support you, our work together can help to better cope with unavoidable stress and alleviate anxiety.
Challenges with work-life balance, navigating change, burnout, and stress can dramatically affect your ability to thrive. These stressors often compound on another and can feel incredibly overwhelming. Transitions may also involve a sense of loss or grief, as it becomes necessary to rediscover your identity and align with new goals. I work with clients to regain balance, build confidence, and move forward with purpose. Through developing clarity around personal values and establishing boundaries that best support you, our work together can help to better cope with unavoidable stress and alleviate anxiety.
(587) 415-0850 View (587) 415-0850
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Grief Counsellors

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.