Grief Therapists in Downtown, Vancouver, BC

Photo of Alshaba Billawala, RPsych, Psychologist
Alshaba Billawala
Psychologist, RPsych
Verified Verified
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6C  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, miscarriage or infant loss, or have been through trauma, you might be feeling frustrated, hopeless, or overwhelmed. Or perhaps you are in a relationship and are finding it difficult to communicate, resolve conflict, or connect with your partner and you've tried everything you can think of. In my practice, I work individuals and couples and can support you in addressing what is keeping you stuck and help support you in improving your mental health, well-being, and your relationship(s).
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, miscarriage or infant loss, or have been through trauma, you might be feeling frustrated, hopeless, or overwhelmed. Or perhaps you are in a relationship and are finding it difficult to communicate, resolve conflict, or connect with your partner and you've tried everything you can think of. In my practice, I work individuals and couples and can support you in addressing what is keeping you stuck and help support you in improving your mental health, well-being, and your relationship(s).
(819) 410-9262 View (819) 410-9262
Photo of Virlyn Collantes, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Virlyn Collantes
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
I accept both British Columbia and Ontario clients for individual and couples therapy. I specialize in the following areas but not limited to: Relationship / Marriage Issues, Grief & Loss, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Prenatal/Postpartum, Emotional Regulation, Life Transitions, and Emotional Abuse. I’m a dedicated Registered Social Worker (RSW) practitioner associated with the British Columbia College of Social Workers and The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in Toronto, Ontario, followed by a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Erikson Institute in Chicago.
I accept both British Columbia and Ontario clients for individual and couples therapy. I specialize in the following areas but not limited to: Relationship / Marriage Issues, Grief & Loss, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Prenatal/Postpartum, Emotional Regulation, Life Transitions, and Emotional Abuse. I’m a dedicated Registered Social Worker (RSW) practitioner associated with the British Columbia College of Social Workers and The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in Toronto, Ontario, followed by a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Erikson Institute in Chicago.
(587) 804-0680 View (587) 804-0680
Photo of Andrew Herfst, RCC, CCC, Licensed Professional Counsellor
Andrew Herfst
Licensed Professional Counsellor, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B
I see many kinds of people with concerns ranging from anxiety and depression, to stress, trauma, and loss, to relationships and personal growth.
The people I work with tend to be caring, open-minded, and high-functioning folks who at times march to the beat of their own drummer or have a unique perspective, who may struggle at times even if they don't show it, and who like to ‘get to the heart of things’ in their relationships, in their work, and in their engagement with life. Many things in this life can hurt us, our habitual defences against pain can muddle things, and sometimes we just get lost. Whether you are in the process of healing yourself, fostering deeper connection with others, or pursuing a life well-lived, I am here to support you.
I see many kinds of people with concerns ranging from anxiety and depression, to stress, trauma, and loss, to relationships and personal growth.
The people I work with tend to be caring, open-minded, and high-functioning folks who at times march to the beat of their own drummer or have a unique perspective, who may struggle at times even if they don't show it, and who like to ‘get to the heart of things’ in their relationships, in their work, and in their engagement with life. Many things in this life can hurt us, our habitual defences against pain can muddle things, and sometimes we just get lost. Whether you are in the process of healing yourself, fostering deeper connection with others, or pursuing a life well-lived, I am here to support you.
(604) 239-4869 View (604) 239-4869
Photo of Simma Bakare - Kids Children Teens Youth, MA, CPP, Counsellor
Simma Bakare - Kids Children Teens Youth
Counsellor, MA, CPP
Verified Verified
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
Specializations: performance based anxiety, ADHD, executive function, learning differences, grief, trauma, culture, identity, depression and more.
We hold a delicate balance of so many dynamics, as we face the challenges of life circumstances. I used a mixed methods approach to support the process it takes to get you, your child, to their version of "there".
Specializations: performance based anxiety, ADHD, executive function, learning differences, grief, trauma, culture, identity, depression and more.
We hold a delicate balance of so many dynamics, as we face the challenges of life circumstances. I used a mixed methods approach to support the process it takes to get you, your child, to their version of "there".
(226) 406-4996 View (226) 406-4996
Photo of Amy Rappaport, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Amy Rappaport
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B
From there we can uncover the resources + skills necessary to navigate through life stress, loss, and change.
Welcome! I work with people experiencing a variety of life transitions and life struggles. A stressful life event, life change, or a recent loss can make it feel like your bottom has fallen out from under you. Cumulative stress, chronic worry or low mood may be interfering with your ability to live a fulfilling, meaningful life. I work with people to build safety, increase self-understanding, process painful feelings, expand coping and facilitate adjustment. I bring a diverse background of clinical experience working in Cancer Care, mental health, and trauma recovery.
From there we can uncover the resources + skills necessary to navigate through life stress, loss, and change.
Welcome! I work with people experiencing a variety of life transitions and life struggles. A stressful life event, life change, or a recent loss can make it feel like your bottom has fallen out from under you. Cumulative stress, chronic worry or low mood may be interfering with your ability to live a fulfilling, meaningful life. I work with people to build safety, increase self-understanding, process painful feelings, expand coping and facilitate adjustment. I bring a diverse background of clinical experience working in Cancer Care, mental health, and trauma recovery.
(873) 502-3153 View (873) 502-3153
Photo of Scott Arner, MEd, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Scott Arner
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B
Hi, I'm Scott! I have spent the past 18 years in Vancouver as a therapist working with children, youth, families and adults struggling with mental health issues, substance use, trauma, anger, grief, as well as isolation and disconnection. I have volunteered working with young offenders in the prison system, and with suicidal individuals through the services of the Vancouver Crisis Centre. Connectedness plays an important role in both my personal and professional life. At times, finding similar thoughts and opinions has helped me feel human. Other times, seeking different ideas and people has helped open my mind to new possibilities.
Hi, I'm Scott! I have spent the past 18 years in Vancouver as a therapist working with children, youth, families and adults struggling with mental health issues, substance use, trauma, anger, grief, as well as isolation and disconnection. I have volunteered working with young offenders in the prison system, and with suicidal individuals through the services of the Vancouver Crisis Centre. Connectedness plays an important role in both my personal and professional life. At times, finding similar thoughts and opinions has helped me feel human. Other times, seeking different ideas and people has helped open my mind to new possibilities.
(587) 328-4983 View (587) 328-4983
Photo of Amelia Bradaric | Grief And Loss, RTC, Counsellor
Amelia Bradaric | Grief And Loss
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6Z  (Online Only)
Grief and trauma are complex and nuanced.
I help my clients in the process of grief, trauma, life transitions and burnout. By integrating modalities such as Mindfulness, DBT, Somatic therapy and Internal Family Systems we are able to look at all aspects of the human experience. We can explore the impact these experiences have in your day-to-day life and the big picture. We will create an individualized and well-balanced approach to therapy by focusing on how you've been impacted, and develop tools and resources to support you in moving forward.
Grief and trauma are complex and nuanced.
I help my clients in the process of grief, trauma, life transitions and burnout. By integrating modalities such as Mindfulness, DBT, Somatic therapy and Internal Family Systems we are able to look at all aspects of the human experience. We can explore the impact these experiences have in your day-to-day life and the big picture. We will create an individualized and well-balanced approach to therapy by focusing on how you've been impacted, and develop tools and resources to support you in moving forward.
View
Photo of Shih-Shin Lee, Counsellor
Shih-Shin Lee
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6Z
These experiences have shaped me as both an individual and a therapist, giving me a unique perspective on grief, loss, and emotional hardship.
As a clinical counsellor, I sincerely believe that each individual’s journey is like a unique and ever-evolving story filled with complexity, richness, and beauty. I view my role as a compassionate guide, walking alongside my clients as they navigate the winding and sometimes uncertain paths of life. In our work together, I am committed to creating a therapeutic space that is non-judgmental, safe, warm, and nurturing. In this space, clients are invited to rediscover and reconnect with the parts of themselves and others.
These experiences have shaped me as both an individual and a therapist, giving me a unique perspective on grief, loss, and emotional hardship.
As a clinical counsellor, I sincerely believe that each individual’s journey is like a unique and ever-evolving story filled with complexity, richness, and beauty. I view my role as a compassionate guide, walking alongside my clients as they navigate the winding and sometimes uncertain paths of life. In our work together, I am committed to creating a therapeutic space that is non-judgmental, safe, warm, and nurturing. In this space, clients are invited to rediscover and reconnect with the parts of themselves and others.
(902) 200-6523 View (902) 200-6523
Photo of Katrina Kaiser, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Katrina Kaiser
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B
I specialize in the treatment of trauma-related symptoms, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, life transitions, parenting support, and attachment wounds unique to those who have been adopted. Most people have experienced challenges in their life and it is normal to feel stuck, lost, or confused as a result of what we have experienced. People have the resources and inner wisdom to heal and by working together we can integrate those painful experiences so they do not remain in the present causing emotional pain and disturbance.
I specialize in the treatment of trauma-related symptoms, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, life transitions, parenting support, and attachment wounds unique to those who have been adopted. Most people have experienced challenges in their life and it is normal to feel stuck, lost, or confused as a result of what we have experienced. People have the resources and inner wisdom to heal and by working together we can integrate those painful experiences so they do not remain in the present causing emotional pain and disturbance.
(778) 650-4755 View (778) 650-4755
Photo of Maryam Khademian, RPC, Counsellor
Maryam Khademian
Counsellor, RPC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6C
I am a certified Life Coach and Registered Professional Counsellor, specializing in loss and grief counselling and I am the founder of Village Grief Counselling here in Vancouver.
It has been for too long that we have not given ourselves permission to fully grieve our losses. Whether it is a fear that allowing the grief to be experienced will be too much to bear, or the belief that we don't have as bad a situation as others, there are many reasons that we don't allow ourselves to grieve fully after our losses. This unprocessed grief will affect us, mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Together, we will explore resources around and within you to honor your grief and move through it. Village Grief Counselling is an oasis for individuals experiencing loss.
I am a certified Life Coach and Registered Professional Counsellor, specializing in loss and grief counselling and I am the founder of Village Grief Counselling here in Vancouver.
It has been for too long that we have not given ourselves permission to fully grieve our losses. Whether it is a fear that allowing the grief to be experienced will be too much to bear, or the belief that we don't have as bad a situation as others, there are many reasons that we don't allow ourselves to grieve fully after our losses. This unprocessed grief will affect us, mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Together, we will explore resources around and within you to honor your grief and move through it. Village Grief Counselling is an oasis for individuals experiencing loss.
(604) 961-5864 View (604) 961-5864
Photo of Claire Yangxiezi Cao, MC, Counsellor
Claire Yangxiezi Cao
Counsellor, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6Z
I hold a profound belief in the inherent wisdom, resilience, and self-actualization potential within every individual. With a compassionate, client-centered and trauma-informed approach, my goal is to cultivate a safe, authentic, and non-judgmental environment where clients can embark on their personal journey of healing, growth, and self-discovery. My areas of expertise encompass childhood and intergenerational trauma, attachment and inner child work, family and relationship issues, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, anger management, self-harm, self-esteem, gender identity, and coping with life transitions.
I hold a profound belief in the inherent wisdom, resilience, and self-actualization potential within every individual. With a compassionate, client-centered and trauma-informed approach, my goal is to cultivate a safe, authentic, and non-judgmental environment where clients can embark on their personal journey of healing, growth, and self-discovery. My areas of expertise encompass childhood and intergenerational trauma, attachment and inner child work, family and relationship issues, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, anger management, self-harm, self-esteem, gender identity, and coping with life transitions.
(236) 239-0339 View (236) 239-0339
Photo of Chantelle Stewart Lam, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Chantelle Stewart Lam
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6C
Hello! I'm Chantelle, and I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a strong commitment to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and transitions. I consider myself a generalist practitioner, but I have a particular affinity towards working with individuals who are facing life transitions, coping with grief and loss, looking to develop more authentic and fulfilling relationships, and navigating the complexities of end-of-life situations.
Hello! I'm Chantelle, and I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a strong commitment to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and transitions. I consider myself a generalist practitioner, but I have a particular affinity towards working with individuals who are facing life transitions, coping with grief and loss, looking to develop more authentic and fulfilling relationships, and navigating the complexities of end-of-life situations.
(343) 644-3360 View (343) 644-3360
Photo of Paige Mowbray, MSW, RSW, RCC, Counsellor
Paige Mowbray
Counsellor, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B
Grief / Loss and Trauma leave us feeling completely overwhelmed, anxious, feeling like no one else can understand what we are going through and often utterly alone. Sometimes just trying to get through the day feels impossible and we can't even think straight. Sometimes we know that our behaviours today are linked to the terrible thing that has happened but we aren't sure what to do about it. I see individuals who are looking for relief. They are looking for someone to help support them as they regain their footing, develop strategies to manage the anxiety and reprocess the loss and trauma they have experienced in a safe way.
Grief / Loss and Trauma leave us feeling completely overwhelmed, anxious, feeling like no one else can understand what we are going through and often utterly alone. Sometimes just trying to get through the day feels impossible and we can't even think straight. Sometimes we know that our behaviours today are linked to the terrible thing that has happened but we aren't sure what to do about it. I see individuals who are looking for relief. They are looking for someone to help support them as they regain their footing, develop strategies to manage the anxiety and reprocess the loss and trauma they have experienced in a safe way.
(902) 201-0392 View (902) 201-0392
Photo of Cheryl L Bucar - The Vancouver Centre for Loss & Bereavement, PhD, MA, RCC, CRT, BCOMM, Counsellor
The Vancouver Centre for Loss & Bereavement
Counsellor, PhD, MA, RCC, CRT, BCOMM
Verified Verified
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
I am committed in my work with people to facilitate the change and recovery from loss and change with compassion, empathy and dignity.
Dr. Cheryl Bucar Having experienced personal and work related loss, I have learned that recovery from the trauma of loss and change is a process. In many situations such as a death or divorce the individual is able to label the loss and associated feelings as grief. Often in an organizational context, individuals do not think that the work related change as loss which can trigger profound feelings of grief. Understanding organizational loss in this context, normalizing the feelings that go with this type of change allows the integration of this knowing into my group and individual counselling work.
I am committed in my work with people to facilitate the change and recovery from loss and change with compassion, empathy and dignity.
Dr. Cheryl Bucar Having experienced personal and work related loss, I have learned that recovery from the trauma of loss and change is a process. In many situations such as a death or divorce the individual is able to label the loss and associated feelings as grief. Often in an organizational context, individuals do not think that the work related change as loss which can trigger profound feelings of grief. Understanding organizational loss in this context, normalizing the feelings that go with this type of change allows the integration of this knowing into my group and individual counselling work.
(866) 206-7896 View (866) 206-7896
Photo of Sandra Stephanson, RTC, Counsellor
Sandra Stephanson
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6C
They are creative collaborations to support you in your self-understanding to heal with the challenges of change, stress, anxiety, aging, trauma, grief, loss, love and life mysteries.
Therapy could be the key to open your compassionate process of accepting yourself and expanding your mental and heartfelt capacities. Moving at your pace and preference, we explore and identify your emotional, mental and relationship patterns that may seem bewildering or intense now, but with an open and patient perspective, I give you the space to validate, reframe and shift those patterns that no longer serve you. Ultimately, your willingness to meet any challenge or aspiration is a profound act of self-reflection rooted in courage that ripples out into how you live, relate and create in the world.
They are creative collaborations to support you in your self-understanding to heal with the challenges of change, stress, anxiety, aging, trauma, grief, loss, love and life mysteries.
Therapy could be the key to open your compassionate process of accepting yourself and expanding your mental and heartfelt capacities. Moving at your pace and preference, we explore and identify your emotional, mental and relationship patterns that may seem bewildering or intense now, but with an open and patient perspective, I give you the space to validate, reframe and shift those patterns that no longer serve you. Ultimately, your willingness to meet any challenge or aspiration is a profound act of self-reflection rooted in courage that ripples out into how you live, relate and create in the world.
(782) 828-7104 View (782) 828-7104
Photo of Lisa Woolgar - Lisa Woolgar Counselling, MEd, RCC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Lisa Woolgar Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RCC, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6Z
I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in BC, a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) in ON, and was a Sessional Instructor at U of Guelph who specialises in somatic counselling approaches to grief, trauma, anxiety, and relationship issues.
I'm a counsellor with over 12 years of experience and specialized training in supporting people through complex grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, and relationship challenges, including LGBTQIA2S+, BIPOC, and non-monogamous people's lived experiences. I'm accepting new clients for individual in-person sessions in Vancouver and Squamish, and online sessions from anywhere in BC/ON. If you're grieving a major loss, facing big life transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, overwhelming emotions, relationship issues, or are seeking deeper balance, meaning and purpose in your life, don't hesitate to reach out for support!
I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in BC, a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) in ON, and was a Sessional Instructor at U of Guelph who specialises in somatic counselling approaches to grief, trauma, anxiety, and relationship issues.
I'm a counsellor with over 12 years of experience and specialized training in supporting people through complex grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, and relationship challenges, including LGBTQIA2S+, BIPOC, and non-monogamous people's lived experiences. I'm accepting new clients for individual in-person sessions in Vancouver and Squamish, and online sessions from anywhere in BC/ON. If you're grieving a major loss, facing big life transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, overwhelming emotions, relationship issues, or are seeking deeper balance, meaning and purpose in your life, don't hesitate to reach out for support!
(226) 406-5969 View (226) 406-5969
Photo of Christopher Testa - Christopher Testa - Grief and Loss Counsellor, RTC, Counsellor
Christopher Testa - Grief and Loss Counsellor
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6Z  (Online Only)
Start finding your way through grief.
Grief can be isolating and it can be difficult to understand if things are getting better or worse. What you are dealing with can take time and you don't have to do it alone.
Start finding your way through grief.
Grief can be isolating and it can be difficult to understand if things are getting better or worse. What you are dealing with can take time and you don't have to do it alone.
(782) 821-3814 View (782) 821-3814
Photo of Rupinder Sidhu, RCC, CCC, MCP, Counsellor
Rupinder Sidhu
Counsellor, RCC, CCC, MCP
Verified Verified
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
Hi there, I’m Rupinder and I am an experienced Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BCACC specializing in healing from grief, relieving anxiety and depression, and coping with stress. I have held various supervisory roles, including work at an Employee and Family Assistance program and as a mental health and addictions supervisor, and have been in the counselling field for many years. I speak fluent Punjabi for those wanting support in their native language and my sessions are available online for busy professionals or those wanting therapy in the comfort of their own home.
Hi there, I’m Rupinder and I am an experienced Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BCACC specializing in healing from grief, relieving anxiety and depression, and coping with stress. I have held various supervisory roles, including work at an Employee and Family Assistance program and as a mental health and addictions supervisor, and have been in the counselling field for many years. I speak fluent Punjabi for those wanting support in their native language and my sessions are available online for busy professionals or those wanting therapy in the comfort of their own home.
(778) 899-3802 View (778) 899-3802
Photo of Monique Silverman - Monique Silverman Counselling & Consulting, MA, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Monique Silverman Counselling & Consulting
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6C
If you feel anxious or depressed; have experienced grief or loss; grapple with anger, shame, or low self-esteem; have a history of trauma, have difficulty maintaining boundaries, or keep finding yourself in challenging relationships; feel you lack communications skills, or are seeking personal development, please call me for support.
I understand that looking for support and assistance to deal with your personal challenges is a big step. Let me assure you: it is a positive move in the right direction. I provide effective and meaningful therapy to individuals, couples (gay or straight), groups and their allies. By offering safety, respect and expertise, I can help you transform your life for the better.
If you feel anxious or depressed; have experienced grief or loss; grapple with anger, shame, or low self-esteem; have a history of trauma, have difficulty maintaining boundaries, or keep finding yourself in challenging relationships; feel you lack communications skills, or are seeking personal development, please call me for support.
I understand that looking for support and assistance to deal with your personal challenges is a big step. Let me assure you: it is a positive move in the right direction. I provide effective and meaningful therapy to individuals, couples (gay or straight), groups and their allies. By offering safety, respect and expertise, I can help you transform your life for the better.
(855) 598-3335 View (855) 598-3335
Photo of Ruta Yawney, MA, RCC, FAMI, Counsellor
Ruta Yawney
Counsellor, MA, RCC, FAMI
Verified Verified
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6C  (Online Only)
Are you in need of someone to talk to? Do you face challenges with grief and loss, anxiety or substance use? I am here to support you. Many of my clients express a desire to find happiness, yet only 13% of people feel engaged in their daily work, according to a recent poll. I believe we must listen to our hearts and understand what they need to thrive. HOW we do that is through: Honesty, Openness and Willingness. In the words of John O’Donahue, “May you have the courage to listen to the yearning, trust the promise of this opening and discover that the one you long for, longs for you”.
Are you in need of someone to talk to? Do you face challenges with grief and loss, anxiety or substance use? I am here to support you. Many of my clients express a desire to find happiness, yet only 13% of people feel engaged in their daily work, according to a recent poll. I believe we must listen to our hearts and understand what they need to thrive. HOW we do that is through: Honesty, Openness and Willingness. In the words of John O’Donahue, “May you have the courage to listen to the yearning, trust the promise of this opening and discover that the one you long for, longs for you”.
(778) 771-3955 View (778) 771-3955
1
...

See more therapy options for Downtown, Vancouver

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.