Grief Therapists in Ajax, ON

Photo of Diane Biggs, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Diane Biggs
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1S
Waitlist for new clients
I also provide clinical consultation and training focused on traumatic grief.
Welcome! I am a Registered Psychotherapist and specialize in grief, trauma, children's grief, bereaved parenting, perinatal mental health, grief, and trauma. I am passionate about providing high quality, creative, and compassionate psychotherapy service to support individuals of all ages during life's most difficult times. I have over 18 years of experience providing psychotherapy to children, youth, adults, and families and am skilled in a variety of psychotherapy methods to best suit your preferences, needs, and situation. I believe that individuals and families are resilient and will empower you to meet your goals.
I also provide clinical consultation and training focused on traumatic grief.
Welcome! I am a Registered Psychotherapist and specialize in grief, trauma, children's grief, bereaved parenting, perinatal mental health, grief, and trauma. I am passionate about providing high quality, creative, and compassionate psychotherapy service to support individuals of all ages during life's most difficult times. I have over 18 years of experience providing psychotherapy to children, youth, adults, and families and am skilled in a variety of psychotherapy methods to best suit your preferences, needs, and situation. I believe that individuals and families are resilient and will empower you to meet your goals.
(365) 800-0762 View (365) 800-0762
Photo of Nick Dookheran, MDiv, Registered Psychotherapist
Nick Dookheran
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1S  (Online Only)
I may be your therapist if you are struggling with conflicts in romantic relationships or within their families. My focus is primarily (but not exclusively) on assisting men and couples, particularly those aiming to improve communication and/or rebuild trust. I also offer pre-marital counselling and support individuals in rebuilding their lives following a separation or divorce. In addition to relationship issues, I provide therapy for ADHD, stress management, grief, and addressing unwanted coping behaviours.
I may be your therapist if you are struggling with conflicts in romantic relationships or within their families. My focus is primarily (but not exclusively) on assisting men and couples, particularly those aiming to improve communication and/or rebuild trust. I also offer pre-marital counselling and support individuals in rebuilding their lives following a separation or divorce. In addition to relationship issues, I provide therapy for ADHD, stress management, grief, and addressing unwanted coping behaviours.
(289) 272-9510 View (289) 272-9510
Photo of Rachael Pogue, RP Qual, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Rachael Pogue
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP Qual
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1S
Are you struggling with challenging relationships, overwhelming grief, or OCD that impacts your daily life? Feeling lost, exhausted, or anxious? Many people today face these difficulties and seek to improve their relationships with themselves and others. I offer support to adolescents and adults dealing with OCD, relationship issues, grief, anxiety, stress, and depression. Let's work together to navigate these challenges and find a path to a more fulfilling life. I am committed to offering support to adolescents & adults experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, stress, depression, relationships, grief, and much more.
Are you struggling with challenging relationships, overwhelming grief, or OCD that impacts your daily life? Feeling lost, exhausted, or anxious? Many people today face these difficulties and seek to improve their relationships with themselves and others. I offer support to adolescents and adults dealing with OCD, relationship issues, grief, anxiety, stress, and depression. Let's work together to navigate these challenges and find a path to a more fulfilling life. I am committed to offering support to adolescents & adults experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, stress, depression, relationships, grief, and much more.
(289) 276-1488 View (289) 276-1488
Photo of Hilary Eaton, MN, RN (EC), MA (c)
Hilary Eaton
NP, Psychotherapist, MN, RN (EC), MA (c)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1Z
As a Nurse Practitioner Psychotherapist, I will walk alongside you as you bravely wade through your grief.
Loss is not just limited to death loss, although that might be what brought you here. Loss includes the loss of our pets, our health, an important relationship, our work. Society tells us that even with death loss we can be cured and should “get over it” as soon as possible. I believe there is no moving on from, there is moving on with grief. For anyone experiencing loss, there is a better way and that is to learn to companion our loss and give it a place in our lives. We companion our loss by talking about it, giving it meaning and allowing it room to exist.
As a Nurse Practitioner Psychotherapist, I will walk alongside you as you bravely wade through your grief.
Loss is not just limited to death loss, although that might be what brought you here. Loss includes the loss of our pets, our health, an important relationship, our work. Society tells us that even with death loss we can be cured and should “get over it” as soon as possible. I believe there is no moving on from, there is moving on with grief. For anyone experiencing loss, there is a better way and that is to learn to companion our loss and give it a place in our lives. We companion our loss by talking about it, giving it meaning and allowing it room to exist.
(289) 367-5547 View (289) 367-5547
Photo of Sara Usmani, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sara Usmani
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1S
Are you, or your teenager, struggling with grief, anxiety, or depression? Are traumatic events from your past making your life more difficult in the present? Do you have difficulty managing stress, frequently feel nervous, or have difficulty staying focused? Have you been diagnosed with a mood disorder or are you struggling to stay on an even keel? In therapy, you can build lifelong coping skills. You can feel calmer, more balanced, more confident, more focused, and more centered. You can gain motivation and succeed more at work, family, or school. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping!
Are you, or your teenager, struggling with grief, anxiety, or depression? Are traumatic events from your past making your life more difficult in the present? Do you have difficulty managing stress, frequently feel nervous, or have difficulty staying focused? Have you been diagnosed with a mood disorder or are you struggling to stay on an even keel? In therapy, you can build lifelong coping skills. You can feel calmer, more balanced, more confident, more focused, and more centered. You can gain motivation and succeed more at work, family, or school. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping!
(289) 210-7017 View (289) 210-7017
Photo of Iriny Salib-Sharkawy, MSW, RSW
Iriny Salib-Sharkawy
MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1T  (Online Only)
Since 2006, I have provided individual counselling for men, women, and adolescents dealing with anxiety, depression, family conflict, grief, and trauma, such as survivors of childhood abuse and intimate partner violence.
Connection and processing your hurts and questions can be one of the most productive ways we grow and move forward. If you want to work with someone who is passionate about helping you in your journey to gain balance and meet goals I would love to talk to you about counselling being the right next step. Different situations and different personalities lend themselves to different types of therapies so I work with you to create an individualized plan that is best suited for your personal needs and situation.
Since 2006, I have provided individual counselling for men, women, and adolescents dealing with anxiety, depression, family conflict, grief, and trauma, such as survivors of childhood abuse and intimate partner violence.
Connection and processing your hurts and questions can be one of the most productive ways we grow and move forward. If you want to work with someone who is passionate about helping you in your journey to gain balance and meet goals I would love to talk to you about counselling being the right next step. Different situations and different personalities lend themselves to different types of therapies so I work with you to create an individualized plan that is best suited for your personal needs and situation.
(647) 905-0577 View (647) 905-0577
Photo of Brooklyn Clifford - Brooklyn Clifford and Life Transitions Counselling, MA , Pre-Licensed Professional
Brooklyn Clifford and Life Transitions Counselling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1S
I offer a FREE 30 minute initial session and consultation. My areas of focus include grief, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, as well as school and work stress. You are the expert of your own life but sometimes we all need a little bit of direction. Let’s have a conversation so we can begin navigating the obstacles in your life.
I offer a FREE 30 minute initial session and consultation. My areas of focus include grief, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, as well as school and work stress. You are the expert of your own life but sometimes we all need a little bit of direction. Let’s have a conversation so we can begin navigating the obstacles in your life.
(289) 778-3281 View (289) 778-3281
Photo of Kyla Morgan, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kyla Morgan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1T
I am now accepting clients for virtual sessions as well as in-person. I provide psychotherapy to adolescents, young adults, and adults navigating life’s complexities such as trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety. My approach is collaborative and tailored to meet your unique needs by integrating various therapeutic techniques to best support your personal growth and well-being. Whether you are dealing with a recent loss, past trauma, or ongoing stress and anxiety, I am here to walk alongside you, offering empathy, understanding, and professional guidance.
I am now accepting clients for virtual sessions as well as in-person. I provide psychotherapy to adolescents, young adults, and adults navigating life’s complexities such as trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety. My approach is collaborative and tailored to meet your unique needs by integrating various therapeutic techniques to best support your personal growth and well-being. Whether you are dealing with a recent loss, past trauma, or ongoing stress and anxiety, I am here to walk alongside you, offering empathy, understanding, and professional guidance.
(289) 402-5820 View (289) 402-5820
Photo of Sara Mottola - Sara Mottola And The Relationship Agency, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sara Mottola And The Relationship Agency
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1T  (Online Only)
I specialize in grief, anxiety, addictions, and complex family and relationship dynamics.
Death, divorce, losing a job, relationship struggles, addictions, or uncertainty over the future you hoped for. The sadness and thoughts that show up unexpectedly and won't go away - those are grief and anxiety. It's a heavy consuming feeling and you just want some relief - to feel normal again. You know you need to talk to someone about what you're been through, but don't want to burden your friends or are worried they might judge you. I can help. I’ve worked in an Intensive Care Unit and in the Medical Assistance in Dying Program - I’m no stranger to grief, stress, anxiety, burnout, and shame.
I specialize in grief, anxiety, addictions, and complex family and relationship dynamics.
Death, divorce, losing a job, relationship struggles, addictions, or uncertainty over the future you hoped for. The sadness and thoughts that show up unexpectedly and won't go away - those are grief and anxiety. It's a heavy consuming feeling and you just want some relief - to feel normal again. You know you need to talk to someone about what you're been through, but don't want to burden your friends or are worried they might judge you. I can help. I’ve worked in an Intensive Care Unit and in the Medical Assistance in Dying Program - I’m no stranger to grief, stress, anxiety, burnout, and shame.
(289) 277-2809 View (289) 277-2809
Photo of Leigh Hunter, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Leigh Hunter
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1T
Healing happens through connection, and many of us have difficulty in sharing the experiences that we face. Mental health & well-being is a challenge for many of us, and therefore, I am on this journey with you - not for you. I specialize in relationships, grief and loss, substance use, trauma, LGBT/queer & women’s identities, life changes, and overall mental health & wellness.
Healing happens through connection, and many of us have difficulty in sharing the experiences that we face. Mental health & well-being is a challenge for many of us, and therefore, I am on this journey with you - not for you. I specialize in relationships, grief and loss, substance use, trauma, LGBT/queer & women’s identities, life changes, and overall mental health & wellness.
(289) 302-5770 View (289) 302-5770
Photo of Elise Cosentino, RP-Qual, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Elise Cosentino
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP-Qual
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1S
I'm genuinely thrilled that you're embarking on this brave journey towards seeking mental health support. Therapy offers a profound opportunity to navigate the complexities of life that often leave us feeling bewildered, isolated, stifled, and hesitant. As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with a focus on grief, coping skills, and parenting, I adopt an integrative approach to establish attainable goals and tailor strategies to support your journey. My aim is to offer a compassionate and empathetic presence, accompanying clients as they navigate the path towards wellness and self-discovery.
I'm genuinely thrilled that you're embarking on this brave journey towards seeking mental health support. Therapy offers a profound opportunity to navigate the complexities of life that often leave us feeling bewildered, isolated, stifled, and hesitant. As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with a focus on grief, coping skills, and parenting, I adopt an integrative approach to establish attainable goals and tailor strategies to support your journey. My aim is to offer a compassionate and empathetic presence, accompanying clients as they navigate the path towards wellness and self-discovery.
(647) 560-7135 View (647) 560-7135
Photo of Navneet Rai @ Ontario Mental Health Therapy, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Navneet Rai @ Ontario Mental Health Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1Z  (Online Only)
I offer therapy for individuals needing support with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and more. Whether this is your first time engaging in counselling or you have engaged in counselling in the past, beginning the journey to healing and self-discovery takes strength and courage. Life can stretch our ability to navigate the challenges we encounter, where we may need help finding the right tools and skills to support our journey. It is essential for me to create a safe and trusting environment for you to explore your thoughts and emotions
I offer therapy for individuals needing support with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and more. Whether this is your first time engaging in counselling or you have engaged in counselling in the past, beginning the journey to healing and self-discovery takes strength and courage. Life can stretch our ability to navigate the challenges we encounter, where we may need help finding the right tools and skills to support our journey. It is essential for me to create a safe and trusting environment for you to explore your thoughts and emotions
(289) 273-6775 View (289) 273-6775
Photo of Julie Sharp - Safe Spaces Therapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Safe Spaces Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1S
My practice specializes in treating mood and anxiety disorders and all relationship concerns including but not limited to infidelity, anger management, life transitions, grief and adjustment issues.
Life and relationships can present us with challenges that you may not have anticipated or understand, or know how to cope with. Perhaps the way you have been coping is no longer working. If you are looking for a safe place to explore making changes in your life or relationships, and gain insights, please call me when you are ready to take the next step and I would be happy to speak with you and explore the option of working together.
My practice specializes in treating mood and anxiety disorders and all relationship concerns including but not limited to infidelity, anger management, life transitions, grief and adjustment issues.
Life and relationships can present us with challenges that you may not have anticipated or understand, or know how to cope with. Perhaps the way you have been coping is no longer working. If you are looking for a safe place to explore making changes in your life or relationships, and gain insights, please call me when you are ready to take the next step and I would be happy to speak with you and explore the option of working together.
(289) 272-9161 View (289) 272-9161
Photo of Sigrun Sigurjonsdottir Couples Counselor, MA, RMFT, ITCA, EMDR, Registered Psychotherapist
Sigrun Sigurjonsdottir Couples Counselor
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RMFT, ITCA, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1S
My personal experience with grief and life's most serious challenges has prepared me well to meet people with warmth, deep understanding and true acceptance.
Specializing in sex counseling. Occasionally all relationships experience a period of stress. That can feel threatening and overwhelming. Whether you feel disconnected, have communication difficulties or have a reason to think your relationship may be over, I can assist you navigate your way back to safety and comfort. I offer a complete array of services to manage your relationships. Among those Premarital Counseling, Marital Counseling, Sex Therapy and Family Mediation Services. My approach tends to be direct, making the most out of each session. I only use methods that have been shown to be effective.
My personal experience with grief and life's most serious challenges has prepared me well to meet people with warmth, deep understanding and true acceptance.
Specializing in sex counseling. Occasionally all relationships experience a period of stress. That can feel threatening and overwhelming. Whether you feel disconnected, have communication difficulties or have a reason to think your relationship may be over, I can assist you navigate your way back to safety and comfort. I offer a complete array of services to manage your relationships. Among those Premarital Counseling, Marital Counseling, Sex Therapy and Family Mediation Services. My approach tends to be direct, making the most out of each session. I only use methods that have been shown to be effective.
(289) 807-3459 View (289) 807-3459
Photo of Leeann Samuel, MACP, RP(Q), CCC, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Leeann Samuel
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q), CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1Z
Leeann Samuel is a member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists (Registered Psychotherapist, CRPO 11226 and a Certified Canadian Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. She works primarily with young adults and adults from a range of presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, grief, loss, and interpersonal/ relationship concerns. Leeann works primarily from an emotion focused approach and has training in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, mindfulness, and positive psychology.
Leeann Samuel is a member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists (Registered Psychotherapist, CRPO 11226 and a Certified Canadian Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. She works primarily with young adults and adults from a range of presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, grief, loss, and interpersonal/ relationship concerns. Leeann works primarily from an emotion focused approach and has training in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, mindfulness, and positive psychology.
(289) 210-9814 View (289) 210-9814
Photo of Scott Gosse - Mills | Gosse Psychology, MA, CPsych, Psychologist
Mills | Gosse Psychology
Psychologist, MA, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1S
Our experienced team provides support for a wide range of challenges including: anxiety, panic, phobias, depression, mood disorders, trauma, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anger management, grief, bereavement, sleep disorders as well relationship and family issues.
Hello there, my name is Scott Gosse and I am the Chief Psychologist at Mills Gosse Psychology. Located in Ajax Ontario, Mills Gosse Psychology is a renowned psychology practice serving the Durham Region as well as the Greater Toronto, Peterborough and Kawartha areas. With over 20 years of experience, our compassionate team of highly skilled clinicians is dedicated to providing accessible and timely therapy, counselling and assessments to children, teens and adults including WSIB and MVA claimants and first responders.
Our experienced team provides support for a wide range of challenges including: anxiety, panic, phobias, depression, mood disorders, trauma, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anger management, grief, bereavement, sleep disorders as well relationship and family issues.
Hello there, my name is Scott Gosse and I am the Chief Psychologist at Mills Gosse Psychology. Located in Ajax Ontario, Mills Gosse Psychology is a renowned psychology practice serving the Durham Region as well as the Greater Toronto, Peterborough and Kawartha areas. With over 20 years of experience, our compassionate team of highly skilled clinicians is dedicated to providing accessible and timely therapy, counselling and assessments to children, teens and adults including WSIB and MVA claimants and first responders.
(289) 276-7516 View (289) 276-7516
Photo of Cheryl Walker, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Cheryl Walker
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1Z
We all may experience difficulties and stresses in life that can negatively affect how we feel about ourselves and our ability to live or lives. When problems take hold, we can feel stuck. It can be helpful to have a place to explore what is causing difficulty and find solutions to move out of the problem. I work with people who want to take their lives back from the effects of the problems they are stuggling with. Some examples of the problems I have helped clients with are depression, anger, grief, impacts of trauma, relationship difficulties, work/school related stress and effects of injustice.
We all may experience difficulties and stresses in life that can negatively affect how we feel about ourselves and our ability to live or lives. When problems take hold, we can feel stuck. It can be helpful to have a place to explore what is causing difficulty and find solutions to move out of the problem. I work with people who want to take their lives back from the effects of the problems they are stuggling with. Some examples of the problems I have helped clients with are depression, anger, grief, impacts of trauma, relationship difficulties, work/school related stress and effects of injustice.
(647) 496-4547 View (647) 496-4547
Photo of Motse Ramathe - Optimum Focus Counselling, BA Psyc, MA , RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Optimum Focus Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, BA Psyc, MA , RP
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1T
My name is Motse Ramathe and I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Life coach and have been in practice for over 10 years. I use a client-centered and collaborative approach in my practice utilizing a wide-range of tested and proven therapeutic modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness-based strategies to help client deal with depression, anxiety, grief and stress management.
My name is Motse Ramathe and I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Life coach and have been in practice for over 10 years. I use a client-centered and collaborative approach in my practice utilizing a wide-range of tested and proven therapeutic modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness-based strategies to help client deal with depression, anxiety, grief and stress management.
(365) 602-2404 View (365) 602-2404
Photo of Mariam Al-Awadi - Mariam Al-Awadi, CCC, RP, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Mariam Al-Awadi
Registered Psychotherapist, CCC, RP, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1S  (Online Only)
I work with adults of different cultural backgrounds who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, and relationship issues.
Life can be stressful and overwhelming. Are you feeling down and don’t know how to move forward? Whether it is because of loneliness, feelings of failure, health problems, financial issues, career pressure, or relationships that have left you hurt and misunderstood, I am here to support you and provide a safe space on your journey to healing and self-awareness.
I work with adults of different cultural backgrounds who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, and relationship issues.
Life can be stressful and overwhelming. Are you feeling down and don’t know how to move forward? Whether it is because of loneliness, feelings of failure, health problems, financial issues, career pressure, or relationships that have left you hurt and misunderstood, I am here to support you and provide a safe space on your journey to healing and self-awareness.
(289) 768-7334 View (289) 768-7334
Photo of Karina Clendenning, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Karina Clendenning
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1S  (Online Only)
Whether you’ve survived domestic or sexual abuse, are experiencing grief, or struggle with the heaviness of everyday life and relationships, I want to hold space for you.
Navigating pain from trauma, relationships, and life in general, can often feel like an overwhelming burden, creating a heaviness that doesn't seem to go away. Sometimes, those around us struggle, or refuse, to understand our experiences or offer their support. When this happens, it is common to have feelings of self-doubt and frustration, wondering why it's so challenging to simply "move on." However, the reality is much more complicated than that, and we often unfairly take on more blame and self-criticism than we deserve. You don't want to feel like this anymore, and so reaching out for support is a brave step toward self-love.
Whether you’ve survived domestic or sexual abuse, are experiencing grief, or struggle with the heaviness of everyday life and relationships, I want to hold space for you.
Navigating pain from trauma, relationships, and life in general, can often feel like an overwhelming burden, creating a heaviness that doesn't seem to go away. Sometimes, those around us struggle, or refuse, to understand our experiences or offer their support. When this happens, it is common to have feelings of self-doubt and frustration, wondering why it's so challenging to simply "move on." However, the reality is much more complicated than that, and we often unfairly take on more blame and self-criticism than we deserve. You don't want to feel like this anymore, and so reaching out for support is a brave step toward self-love.
(365) 607-5830 View (365) 607-5830

See more therapy options for Ajax

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.