Bereavement Counselling in Harrogate

Photo of Alex Hannay, PhD, MBACP, Counsellor
Alex Hannay
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Harrogate HG1
I began providing therapeutic counselling to bring my years of experience in Palliative Care working with bereavement, grief, carer fatigue and difficult transitions to meet a wide set of needs.
We each have our own particular blend of resources and limitations, specific to us and unique as a fingerprint. That's why my therapeutic counselling doesn't provide 6-step plans, workbooks or programmes. It's open, free-flowing and exploratory. It takes the time to clear a regular safe space in which to unpack the events, relationships and emotions that you bring with you to this moment. To think about your feeling and feel your thinking. To talk, to laugh, to be tired, angry, uplifted or simply just to take the time to be. With compassion, empathy and without judgment.
I began providing therapeutic counselling to bring my years of experience in Palliative Care working with bereavement, grief, carer fatigue and difficult transitions to meet a wide set of needs.
We each have our own particular blend of resources and limitations, specific to us and unique as a fingerprint. That's why my therapeutic counselling doesn't provide 6-step plans, workbooks or programmes. It's open, free-flowing and exploratory. It takes the time to clear a regular safe space in which to unpack the events, relationships and emotions that you bring with you to this moment. To think about your feeling and feel your thinking. To talk, to laugh, to be tired, angry, uplifted or simply just to take the time to be. With compassion, empathy and without judgment.
01347 668138 View 01347 668138
Photo of Diane Maria Pedder - Di Pedder, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Di Pedder
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrogate HG1  (Online Only)
I am experienced in working with depression, anxiety and all forms of loss, including clients impacted by suicide, the loss of a baby or child, pregnancy loss and many other types of sudden and unexpected death. I have worked with clients who are seeking to recover from abusive relationships, including domestic abuse and clients in frontline services including police, medics and the armed forces. I have also supported clients who are facing difficult life situations, perhaps feeling unhappy in their relationship, or at work, and have helped them to work through the issues finding answers that are right for them.
I am experienced in working with depression, anxiety and all forms of loss, including clients impacted by suicide, the loss of a baby or child, pregnancy loss and many other types of sudden and unexpected death. I have worked with clients who are seeking to recover from abusive relationships, including domestic abuse and clients in frontline services including police, medics and the armed forces. I have also supported clients who are facing difficult life situations, perhaps feeling unhappy in their relationship, or at work, and have helped them to work through the issues finding answers that are right for them.
0113 519 1336 View 0113 519 1336
Photo of Karen Michelle Hunt - Root and Flourish Counselling Services, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Root and Flourish Counselling Services
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrogate HG1
These include bereavement, domestic violence, menopause issues, couples’ relationship difficulties, and trauma including birth trauma.
As a person-centred therapist, I provide a safe and supportive environment to help individuals and couples to navigate a range of emotional and psychological challenges. These include bereavement, domestic violence, menopause issues, couples’ relationship difficulties, and trauma including birth trauma. Clients want to feel empowered so that they can heal and grow. They will do so if they are fully accepted, their dignity is respected, and they are understood. This is my approach.
These include bereavement, domestic violence, menopause issues, couples’ relationship difficulties, and trauma including birth trauma.
As a person-centred therapist, I provide a safe and supportive environment to help individuals and couples to navigate a range of emotional and psychological challenges. These include bereavement, domestic violence, menopause issues, couples’ relationship difficulties, and trauma including birth trauma. Clients want to feel empowered so that they can heal and grow. They will do so if they are fully accepted, their dignity is respected, and they are understood. This is my approach.
01723 334245 View 01723 334245
Photo of Sarah Elizabeth Mckimm, MBACP, Counsellor
Sarah Elizabeth Mckimm
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrogate HG1
Grief and trauma can be overwhelming and can feel like a lonely place to be.
We are all individuals whose wants, needs and desires are different and I will work with you as a unique person, deserving of counselling as individual as you. You are in the driving seat, as together we navigate the difficulties and problems you face in the present and will stay by your side throughout this journey. There may be times we look back at your past and glance at how it affects you in the here and now, but I aim to do this at your own pace, when the time feels right. I offer solace, a listening ear and permission for all feelings to be heard. Ready to move forward? Lets navigate this path to renewed hope together.
Grief and trauma can be overwhelming and can feel like a lonely place to be.
We are all individuals whose wants, needs and desires are different and I will work with you as a unique person, deserving of counselling as individual as you. You are in the driving seat, as together we navigate the difficulties and problems you face in the present and will stay by your side throughout this journey. There may be times we look back at your past and glance at how it affects you in the here and now, but I aim to do this at your own pace, when the time feels right. I offer solace, a listening ear and permission for all feelings to be heard. Ready to move forward? Lets navigate this path to renewed hope together.
0113 467 5037 View 0113 467 5037
Photo of Dan Crawford - Dan Crawford - CBT Therapy, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Dan Crawford - CBT Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Harrogate HG3
I am a specialist in Depression and Anxiety, including Phobias (high-spec VR is available), Insomnia, Trauma, Traumatic Grief, Worry (GAD), OCD, Self-esteem, Social & Performance Anxieties, Health Anxiety, Eating Disorders, and Panic.
I am a specialist in Depression & Anxiety. Treating these conditions effectively using CBT requires BABCP-level accreditation (not BACP). My average time to full recovery is 12 sessions. For some conditions (e.g. Panic) it is as little as 3 - 4 sessions! Call now. I meet a lot of people who believe that their condition is untreatable, and they are always astounded by the progress that is possible with CBT when provided by an accredited professional. I treat Depression, Phobias (using VR), Insomnia, Trauma, Grief, Worry (GAD), OCD, Self-esteem, Social & Performance Anxieties, Health Anxiety, Panic & more. Call now!
I am a specialist in Depression and Anxiety, including Phobias (high-spec VR is available), Insomnia, Trauma, Traumatic Grief, Worry (GAD), OCD, Self-esteem, Social & Performance Anxieties, Health Anxiety, Eating Disorders, and Panic.
I am a specialist in Depression & Anxiety. Treating these conditions effectively using CBT requires BABCP-level accreditation (not BACP). My average time to full recovery is 12 sessions. For some conditions (e.g. Panic) it is as little as 3 - 4 sessions! Call now. I meet a lot of people who believe that their condition is untreatable, and they are always astounded by the progress that is possible with CBT when provided by an accredited professional. I treat Depression, Phobias (using VR), Insomnia, Trauma, Grief, Worry (GAD), OCD, Self-esteem, Social & Performance Anxieties, Health Anxiety, Panic & more. Call now!
07396 077085 View 07396 077085
Photo of Daniel Easton, MBACP, Counsellor
Daniel Easton
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Harrogate HG1
Hello. My name is Daniel. I am an qualified and experienced Counsellor working from Harrogate, North Yorkshire. I can help with many issues including; Family and relationship issues, Anxiety and Stress, Depression, Grief and Loss Purpose, direction and motivation Addictions, Moderate mental health concerns Difficult and undesirable behaviour's Issues around Christian faith and spirituality .
Hello. My name is Daniel. I am an qualified and experienced Counsellor working from Harrogate, North Yorkshire. I can help with many issues including; Family and relationship issues, Anxiety and Stress, Depression, Grief and Loss Purpose, direction and motivation Addictions, Moderate mental health concerns Difficult and undesirable behaviour's Issues around Christian faith and spirituality .
01423 740536 View 01423 740536
Photo of Nicola Smith, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Nicola Smith
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Harrogate HG1
I am a Counsellor and Coach. I work with couples and individuals, I am experienced in working with relationship difficulties, anxiety, loss and many other issues. As a coach I can work with you to make positive changes in your life or work towards a goal or milestone that you feel would really benefit you. In coaching our focus will be on the now and the future. I will use my wealth of experience as a therapist to create a trusting space to explore what is going on for you and where you want to be.
I am a Counsellor and Coach. I work with couples and individuals, I am experienced in working with relationship difficulties, anxiety, loss and many other issues. As a coach I can work with you to make positive changes in your life or work towards a goal or milestone that you feel would really benefit you. In coaching our focus will be on the now and the future. I will use my wealth of experience as a therapist to create a trusting space to explore what is going on for you and where you want to be.
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Photo of Josephine Kerr, MBACP, Counsellor
Josephine Kerr
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Harrogate HG2
Hello, I'm Josephine. If you're feeling lost, overwhelmed or are struggling , I can help you find your own way to deal with what's going on in your life, find your way through your issues so that you are able to face life with renewed hope and energy. I work with each client’s unique issues be they anxiety, menopause, relationships, loss of identity due to life changes, bereavement, burnout, stress and depression. I have a particular interest in supporting Headteachers, school leaders and teachers and offer a reduced rate for these clients.
Hello, I'm Josephine. If you're feeling lost, overwhelmed or are struggling , I can help you find your own way to deal with what's going on in your life, find your way through your issues so that you are able to face life with renewed hope and energy. I work with each client’s unique issues be they anxiety, menopause, relationships, loss of identity due to life changes, bereavement, burnout, stress and depression. I have a particular interest in supporting Headteachers, school leaders and teachers and offer a reduced rate for these clients.
01423 224616 View 01423 224616
Photo of Margaret Ann McGregor, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Margaret Ann McGregor
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Harrogate HG3
Hi my name is Margaret I am a 'Person Centred' therapeutic counsellor. My aim is to provide you with a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space in which to explore your concerns. You may have specific needs such as help with distressing life events such as bereavement, loss, addictions or help with conditions such as anxiety or depression. Perhaps you need to explore personal experiences or you would like to enhance your personal effectiveness.
Hi my name is Margaret I am a 'Person Centred' therapeutic counsellor. My aim is to provide you with a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space in which to explore your concerns. You may have specific needs such as help with distressing life events such as bereavement, loss, addictions or help with conditions such as anxiety or depression. Perhaps you need to explore personal experiences or you would like to enhance your personal effectiveness.
01423 222467 View 01423 222467
Photo of Catherine Clay - Catherine Clay Psychotherapy, MA, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Catherine Clay Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrogate HG1
Many of my clients are looking for help, individually or as a couple, to cope with a loss or with difficult or changing relationships.
Perhaps you are reading this profile because you are going through something difficult right now, and you are looking for someone to offer you support without agenda or judgement? Therapy is about creating a compassionate space in which you will be heard and given the time to explore what is going on for you. My role is to help you feel safe and empowered to reflect on your feelings, fears, hopes and frustrations, and to find a way forward that is right for you. So that you can decide if I am the right therapist for you, I am always happy to have a conversation via Zoom before you book an appointment.
Many of my clients are looking for help, individually or as a couple, to cope with a loss or with difficult or changing relationships.
Perhaps you are reading this profile because you are going through something difficult right now, and you are looking for someone to offer you support without agenda or judgement? Therapy is about creating a compassionate space in which you will be heard and given the time to explore what is going on for you. My role is to help you feel safe and empowered to reflect on your feelings, fears, hopes and frustrations, and to find a way forward that is right for you. So that you can decide if I am the right therapist for you, I am always happy to have a conversation via Zoom before you book an appointment.
01423 648694 View 01423 648694
Photo of Elaine Marie Collins, BACP, Counsellor
Elaine Marie Collins
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Harrogate HG3
Parenting can bring up all sorts of emotions no matter how old your children are. Do you have feelings of self-doubt, feel exhausted and carry around guilt? Are you questioning ‘Am I good enough?’ Are your children leaving the nest and you feel a sense of loss, unsure of your role now? Are you struggling with menopausal symptoms and don’t recognise or understand yourself and your body? Are you now caring for your elderly parents or struggling with bereavement, feeling lonely and worried about the future?
Parenting can bring up all sorts of emotions no matter how old your children are. Do you have feelings of self-doubt, feel exhausted and carry around guilt? Are you questioning ‘Am I good enough?’ Are your children leaving the nest and you feel a sense of loss, unsure of your role now? Are you struggling with menopausal symptoms and don’t recognise or understand yourself and your body? Are you now caring for your elderly parents or struggling with bereavement, feeling lonely and worried about the future?
01423 226840 View 01423 226840
Photo of Margaret Wilson - Margaret Wilson - Child and Adolescent Counsellor, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Margaret Wilson - Child and Adolescent Counsellor
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrogate HG2
There are times when life events such as family separation, loss, bullying, school refusal and every day struggles impacts our mental health.
I am an experienced Child, Young Person and Parent Psychotherapist based in Harrogate. There are times when we can struggle emotionally. For children and young people it is often difficult to understand their own emotions or be able to express their thoughts. Sometimes this leads to overwhelming and confusing feelings, with behaviours that seems stuck, often resulting in low self-esteem and struggles with peer or family relationships. Individual counselling or creative therapy in a safe supportive space to explore emotions, feelings and develop an understanding of our thoughts can build communication skills and emotional resilience.
There are times when life events such as family separation, loss, bullying, school refusal and every day struggles impacts our mental health.
I am an experienced Child, Young Person and Parent Psychotherapist based in Harrogate. There are times when we can struggle emotionally. For children and young people it is often difficult to understand their own emotions or be able to express their thoughts. Sometimes this leads to overwhelming and confusing feelings, with behaviours that seems stuck, often resulting in low self-esteem and struggles with peer or family relationships. Individual counselling or creative therapy in a safe supportive space to explore emotions, feelings and develop an understanding of our thoughts can build communication skills and emotional resilience.
01423 449146 View 01423 449146
Photo of Tanya Oosthuyzen, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Tanya Oosthuyzen
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Harrogate HG2  (Online Only)
Although I work with all forms of psychological distress and clinical disorders I hold a special interest & expertise in anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, trauma & complex PTSD, sexual health, life-transitions & bereavement.
Are you maybe having difficulties with anxiety or depression; feeling overwhelmed; lacking in motivation; experiencing relationship difficulties; having intrusive or ruminating thoughts; struggling to make decisions; looking to explore greater personal growth & insight or feel you are not quite reaching your full potential? - perhaps I can help. I am a Clinical Psychologist in private practice providing psychotherapy within a safe, containing space - allowing you the opportunity to openly explore a range of thoughts, behaviours & emotions, with someone trained to help understand & make sense of them.
Although I work with all forms of psychological distress and clinical disorders I hold a special interest & expertise in anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, trauma & complex PTSD, sexual health, life-transitions & bereavement.
Are you maybe having difficulties with anxiety or depression; feeling overwhelmed; lacking in motivation; experiencing relationship difficulties; having intrusive or ruminating thoughts; struggling to make decisions; looking to explore greater personal growth & insight or feel you are not quite reaching your full potential? - perhaps I can help. I am a Clinical Psychologist in private practice providing psychotherapy within a safe, containing space - allowing you the opportunity to openly explore a range of thoughts, behaviours & emotions, with someone trained to help understand & make sense of them.
01423 648724 View 01423 648724
Photo of Patricio Maglio, MBACP, Counsellor
Patricio Maglio
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Harrogate HG3
I offer individual counselling for adults for a wide variety of issues, including people experiencing anxiety, grief, low mood, relationship issues - and anyone who's going through difficult changes in life and trying to find a way forward.
I offer individual counselling for adults for a wide variety of issues, including people experiencing anxiety, grief, low mood, relationship issues - and anyone who's going through difficult changes in life and trying to find a way forward.
01423 649574 View 01423 649574
Photo of Sarah Naylor, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Sarah Naylor
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrogate HG1
You may have had conception difficulties, the pregnancy or birth experience may not have been what you had hoped, or you may have experienced baby loss.
At times we all feel vulnerable in life and taking that first step to access support can feel daunting. Therapy may help if you are feeling like you have lost your way, feel unsettled, or you may be experiencing more intense feelings such as anxiety or depression. You may have experienced trauma (recently or in the past), or you may be in a life transition such as parenthood. I have a specialist interest and experience in antenatal, postnatal and parenting difficulties and have over 10 years’ experience working specifically in this area in the NHS. I am also a domestic abuse ambassador for a local NHS Trust.
You may have had conception difficulties, the pregnancy or birth experience may not have been what you had hoped, or you may have experienced baby loss.
At times we all feel vulnerable in life and taking that first step to access support can feel daunting. Therapy may help if you are feeling like you have lost your way, feel unsettled, or you may be experiencing more intense feelings such as anxiety or depression. You may have experienced trauma (recently or in the past), or you may be in a life transition such as parenthood. I have a specialist interest and experience in antenatal, postnatal and parenting difficulties and have over 10 years’ experience working specifically in this area in the NHS. I am also a domestic abuse ambassador for a local NHS Trust.
0113 519 3584 View 0113 519 3584
Photo of Rupert Fishwick, MBACP, Counsellor
Rupert Fishwick
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrogate HG1
With over 20 years of experience in emergency services, I deeply understand the impact of trauma, bereavement, low mood and loss of identity can have.
I understand how difficult it can be to reach out and find the support thats right for you. Together, we’ll work through your thoughts, feeling and experiences, empowering you to make informed decisions and achieve lasting change. I can support you when perhaps you feel you don't have anyone else to explore your thoughts and feelings. Others may try and give you a solution and fix the issue, when really you just need someone to listen without fear or judgment. With 20 years experience supporting mental health I'm here for you.
With over 20 years of experience in emergency services, I deeply understand the impact of trauma, bereavement, low mood and loss of identity can have.
I understand how difficult it can be to reach out and find the support thats right for you. Together, we’ll work through your thoughts, feeling and experiences, empowering you to make informed decisions and achieve lasting change. I can support you when perhaps you feel you don't have anyone else to explore your thoughts and feelings. Others may try and give you a solution and fix the issue, when really you just need someone to listen without fear or judgment. With 20 years experience supporting mental health I'm here for you.
01937 221306 View 01937 221306
Photo of Dr Charlotte O'Brien, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Charlotte O'Brien
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Harrogate HG1
These may include, for example, relationship or health difficulties, anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, grief or loss.
You are very warmly welcome. My name is Charlotte and I am an HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist and BACP registered Psychotherapist. I offer weekly individual psychotherapy to adults and young people over 16 years of age on a one-to-one basis, in-person in North Leeds or online for clients based across the UK. I am an experienced practitioner, lecturer at the University of Manchester, and RAPPS registered clinical supervisor. My specialist area of research is how we experience trauma in the body and I have published numerous academic papers in this field.
These may include, for example, relationship or health difficulties, anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, grief or loss.
You are very warmly welcome. My name is Charlotte and I am an HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist and BACP registered Psychotherapist. I offer weekly individual psychotherapy to adults and young people over 16 years of age on a one-to-one basis, in-person in North Leeds or online for clients based across the UK. I am an experienced practitioner, lecturer at the University of Manchester, and RAPPS registered clinical supervisor. My specialist area of research is how we experience trauma in the body and I have published numerous academic papers in this field.
01937 220258 View 01937 220258
Photo of Lucy Karfopoulos, MBACP, Counsellor
Lucy Karfopoulos
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Harrogate HG1
Hello, I’m Lucy, an experienced person centred counsellor. I provide short term and long term therapy for young people (12-18) and adults. I work competently with a range of presentations such as anxiety, loss, relationships, trauma and abuse as well as life transitions, self-esteem and identity. Starting therapy can feel daunting, my aim is to provide a space which is safe, relaxed and free of judgment; where you are able to speak freely. We will work at your pace, collaborating together on what it is you wish to bring to therapy, I will be along side you, helping you to explore your experiences with kindness and curiosity.
Hello, I’m Lucy, an experienced person centred counsellor. I provide short term and long term therapy for young people (12-18) and adults. I work competently with a range of presentations such as anxiety, loss, relationships, trauma and abuse as well as life transitions, self-esteem and identity. Starting therapy can feel daunting, my aim is to provide a space which is safe, relaxed and free of judgment; where you are able to speak freely. We will work at your pace, collaborating together on what it is you wish to bring to therapy, I will be along side you, helping you to explore your experiences with kindness and curiosity.
01274 041813 View 01274 041813
Photo of Richard Kearns, PhD, UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist
Richard Kearns
Psychotherapist, PhD, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
Harrogate HG1
I am an integrative relational UKCP trainee psychotherapist in advanced training. I work with a range of issues, including trauma, PTSD, complex PTSD (CPTSD), anxiety, grief, and depression. Sometimes, issues aren't clear and may simply feel like being lost or without direction. Relational psychotherapy focuses on the role of relationships and interpersonal dynamics in understanding and addressing psychological issues. While past relationships matter, my approach also emphasises the present moment. By exploring your current thoughts, feelings, and interactions, we can gain insight into how you relate to others and yourself right now
I am an integrative relational UKCP trainee psychotherapist in advanced training. I work with a range of issues, including trauma, PTSD, complex PTSD (CPTSD), anxiety, grief, and depression. Sometimes, issues aren't clear and may simply feel like being lost or without direction. Relational psychotherapy focuses on the role of relationships and interpersonal dynamics in understanding and addressing psychological issues. While past relationships matter, my approach also emphasises the present moment. By exploring your current thoughts, feelings, and interactions, we can gain insight into how you relate to others and yourself right now
01889 228049 View 01889 228049
Photo of Dr Rebecca Eaton, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Rebecca Eaton
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Harrogate HG1
I am a Clinical Psychologist that offers a range of specialist support for children, adolescents, young adults and families who are experiencing mental health difficulties, including anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD and trauma. I frequently work with individuals with a variety of long-term physical health conditions following an accident, injury or diagnosis, such as spinal cord injury, brain injury, long-COVID or Chronic Fatigue. I have a range of experience supporting individuals and families following significant traumatic experiences, including road traffic accidents, sexual assault or bereavement.
I am a Clinical Psychologist that offers a range of specialist support for children, adolescents, young adults and families who are experiencing mental health difficulties, including anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD and trauma. I frequently work with individuals with a variety of long-term physical health conditions following an accident, injury or diagnosis, such as spinal cord injury, brain injury, long-COVID or Chronic Fatigue. I have a range of experience supporting individuals and families following significant traumatic experiences, including road traffic accidents, sexual assault or bereavement.
0114 697 9736 View 0114 697 9736
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Bereavement 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.