Bereavement Counselling in Newcastle upon Tyne

Photo of Tabitha Appleby, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Tabitha Appleby
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE3
I specialise in PTSD, Complex PTSD, ADHD, ASD, loss, anxiety and relationships but this is not exhaustive.
I am BACP Accredited integrative psychotherapist working with adults and couples. I and also a EMDR Therapist and Couples Counsellor and regularlywork with neurodiversity. I provide a free initial short call service to get more information regarding the presenting issue. Integrative means that I have many tools and can adapt my style to meet my clients needs. EMDR can help with trauma, phobias and anxiety and I work with Couples to help with communication and better relationships. I work online and face to face.
I specialise in PTSD, Complex PTSD, ADHD, ASD, loss, anxiety and relationships but this is not exhaustive.
I am BACP Accredited integrative psychotherapist working with adults and couples. I and also a EMDR Therapist and Couples Counsellor and regularlywork with neurodiversity. I provide a free initial short call service to get more information regarding the presenting issue. Integrative means that I have many tools and can adapt my style to meet my clients needs. EMDR can help with trauma, phobias and anxiety and I work with Couples to help with communication and better relationships. I work online and face to face.
01798 304026 View 01798 304026
Photo of Frankie Aitchison - Frankie Aitchison Counselling and Psychotherapy, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Frankie Aitchison Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE6  (Online Only)
Specialist areas: Grief including pregnancy and infant loss, work stress, and life transitions.
Hello, welcome to my page. Are you overwhelmed by difficult feelings, looking for support with stress and anxiety or maybe you are looking for someone to help you with a bereavement, life transition, or long-term health issue? You may be looking for a safe, confidential, and supportive space to talk freely and explore what is going on for you. I can offer you this space where I hope that you will feel relaxed, supported, and heard. I provide Online Psychotherapy and Counselling for adults and work with anyone in the North East and across the UK.
Specialist areas: Grief including pregnancy and infant loss, work stress, and life transitions.
Hello, welcome to my page. Are you overwhelmed by difficult feelings, looking for support with stress and anxiety or maybe you are looking for someone to help you with a bereavement, life transition, or long-term health issue? You may be looking for a safe, confidential, and supportive space to talk freely and explore what is going on for you. I can offer you this space where I hope that you will feel relaxed, supported, and heard. I provide Online Psychotherapy and Counselling for adults and work with anyone in the North East and across the UK.
0191 580 4142 View 0191 580 4142
Photo of Annabel Nicholson, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Annabel Nicholson
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE6
I work for example with people experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and post-traumatic stress.
I understand that for some people starting therapy may feel daunting. I am interested in building a strong, supportive relationship. My style is warm, genuine, non-judgemental and hopeful. I strongly believe in hope, you may come to therapy feeling ‘hopeless’, if you do, I believe my role is to carry hope, until you are ready to do so yourself. I am interested in people’s stories and finding meaning and making sense of patterns and repetitive unhelpful behaviour. I will encourage self-kindness and quietening internal harsh voices. I may challenge false beliefs about yourself.
I work for example with people experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and post-traumatic stress.
I understand that for some people starting therapy may feel daunting. I am interested in building a strong, supportive relationship. My style is warm, genuine, non-judgemental and hopeful. I strongly believe in hope, you may come to therapy feeling ‘hopeless’, if you do, I believe my role is to carry hope, until you are ready to do so yourself. I am interested in people’s stories and finding meaning and making sense of patterns and repetitive unhelpful behaviour. I will encourage self-kindness and quietening internal harsh voices. I may challenge false beliefs about yourself.
0191 625 0178 View 0191 625 0178
Photo of Dr Sophie Monaghan, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Sophie Monaghan
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE3
I am passionate about supporting and empowering people to overcome life’s obstacles. My experience has allowed me the privilege of working closely with those facing unexpected and serious life events, either for themselves or those close to them. Often this has been as a result of physical health issues, neurological conditions, life stage transitions, loss or traumatic events; resulting in understandable distress and overwhelm for the person. I provide the opportunity to truly hear your story, understand how your experiences have influenced your life, discovering options for your next steps and a guide to your goals for therapy.
I am passionate about supporting and empowering people to overcome life’s obstacles. My experience has allowed me the privilege of working closely with those facing unexpected and serious life events, either for themselves or those close to them. Often this has been as a result of physical health issues, neurological conditions, life stage transitions, loss or traumatic events; resulting in understandable distress and overwhelm for the person. I provide the opportunity to truly hear your story, understand how your experiences have influenced your life, discovering options for your next steps and a guide to your goals for therapy.
0191 743 1877 View 0191 743 1877
Photo of Vicky Horgan - Counselling Direct , MBACP, Counsellor
Counselling Direct
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1
Hi, my name is Vicky and welcome to Counselling Direct. Are you struggling with life's challenges such as anxiety, ADHD/ADD, ASD, bereavement, depression or low self-esteem, then counselling can help. I offer a warm and friendly professional service and provide a safe and confidential space where you can feel free to explore your thoughts, feelings and issues. I work with people with a range of difficulties, helping them to gain personal awareness, a clearer perspective on their life and make positive changes.
Hi, my name is Vicky and welcome to Counselling Direct. Are you struggling with life's challenges such as anxiety, ADHD/ADD, ASD, bereavement, depression or low self-esteem, then counselling can help. I offer a warm and friendly professional service and provide a safe and confidential space where you can feel free to explore your thoughts, feelings and issues. I work with people with a range of difficulties, helping them to gain personal awareness, a clearer perspective on their life and make positive changes.
0191 607 6440 View 0191 607 6440
Photo of Alison Brown - Calonlan Counselling, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Calonlan Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1
If you are suffering anticipatory grief, complicated grief, bereavement, trauma, health related issues, or loss (due to life changes, retirement, redundancies, financial loss, or family life circumstances), I can support you to speak openly and freely.
Calonlan Counselling and Psychotherapy, ensure a private, secure, and compassionate setting where you can address any issues that are causing distress or trouble, with the assurance of non-judgemental listening. Being an integrative person-centred counsellor, my role is to accompany you on your journey, providing an open space for candid and uninhibited discussions about the problems that impede your progress. With a diverse background in Counselling and Psychotherapy, specifically trained in Grief, Humanistic, Trauma, Attachment, and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, I possess the versatility to adapt to my clients' unique needs.
If you are suffering anticipatory grief, complicated grief, bereavement, trauma, health related issues, or loss (due to life changes, retirement, redundancies, financial loss, or family life circumstances), I can support you to speak openly and freely.
Calonlan Counselling and Psychotherapy, ensure a private, secure, and compassionate setting where you can address any issues that are causing distress or trouble, with the assurance of non-judgemental listening. Being an integrative person-centred counsellor, my role is to accompany you on your journey, providing an open space for candid and uninhibited discussions about the problems that impede your progress. With a diverse background in Counselling and Psychotherapy, specifically trained in Grief, Humanistic, Trauma, Attachment, and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, I possess the versatility to adapt to my clients' unique needs.
020 3994 2394 View 020 3994 2394
Photo of Mariette van Lieshout, MA
Mariette van Lieshout
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1  (Online Only)
If you feel stuck or at a loss with your life, perhaps due to past or present experiences (for example relationship difficulties, illness, work problems, losses); or if thoughts and emotions are difficult to bear (maybe resulting in feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness or emptiness), you might benefit from talking – sharing with somebody who is there just for you, unbiased and non-judgemental. We would work at building a therapeutic relationship based on mutual trust and respect so that a safe and protected space can be created.
If you feel stuck or at a loss with your life, perhaps due to past or present experiences (for example relationship difficulties, illness, work problems, losses); or if thoughts and emotions are difficult to bear (maybe resulting in feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness or emptiness), you might benefit from talking – sharing with somebody who is there just for you, unbiased and non-judgemental. We would work at building a therapeutic relationship based on mutual trust and respect so that a safe and protected space can be created.
013873 40698 View 013873 40698
Photo of Megan Riley, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Megan Riley
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1  (Online Only)
I experienced a significant loss during childhood and accessed therapy in my 20’s in order to process this so I am aware of how vulnerable it feels to be the client.
I’m a qualified counsellor with a Master of Science in Counselling Psychology, my main aim as a counsellor is to help people to be empowered to make the changes that they wish to. Through my private practice I work with adults over the age of 18. I help people to cope with difficult life transitions to adapt to the changes that are presented. I help people to make links between experiences in childhood or teenage years and current issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and difficulties in relationships.
I experienced a significant loss during childhood and accessed therapy in my 20’s in order to process this so I am aware of how vulnerable it feels to be the client.
I’m a qualified counsellor with a Master of Science in Counselling Psychology, my main aim as a counsellor is to help people to be empowered to make the changes that they wish to. Through my private practice I work with adults over the age of 18. I help people to cope with difficult life transitions to adapt to the changes that are presented. I help people to make links between experiences in childhood or teenage years and current issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and difficulties in relationships.
01325 523010 View 01325 523010
Photo of Wendy Anderson, MBACP, Counsellor
Wendy Anderson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE47
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I'm Wendy. How are you doing? Having taken the courageous step to look for help, I'm guessing the answer to that is: 'Not great'. Are you feeling like your life has lost direction, suffering a loss in your life, or struggling with emotions that the current pandemic situation has brought to the forefront of your mind? I believe that we all have the innate ability to realise our full potential and live our best life. With the right help, you can take back control of your life.
Hi, I'm Wendy. How are you doing? Having taken the courageous step to look for help, I'm guessing the answer to that is: 'Not great'. Are you feeling like your life has lost direction, suffering a loss in your life, or struggling with emotions that the current pandemic situation has brought to the forefront of your mind? I believe that we all have the innate ability to realise our full potential and live our best life. With the right help, you can take back control of your life.
01661 525181 View 01661 525181
Photo of James Bowness Clarke, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
James Bowness Clarke
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE2
I am an experienced Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience of working in the NHS and private practice. Whilst I typically work with clients who are experiencing anxiety or low mood, I have a special interest in Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and complex grief. I am experienced in working with individual or couples and families, and I am qualified in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I hold clinics in the evenings in Jesmond or offer evening online appointments.
I am an experienced Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience of working in the NHS and private practice. Whilst I typically work with clients who are experiencing anxiety or low mood, I have a special interest in Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and complex grief. I am experienced in working with individual or couples and families, and I am qualified in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I hold clinics in the evenings in Jesmond or offer evening online appointments.
01434 307703 View 01434 307703
Photo of Fiona Fitzpatrick, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Fiona Fitzpatrick
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1  (Online Only)
Themes that Art Therapy can help are low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, bereavement, loss, trauma to name a few.
My name is Fiona Fitzpatrick and I am a registered Art Psychotherapist and EMDR Therapist working with children, young people and adults. I am passionate about how the creative process can heal and change a person, helping to understand ourselves and our circumstances & behaviour and with this awareness find acceptance and heal from suffering. You do not have to have any experience of art or any art skills to benefit from this therapy. I have 6 years experience of working with adopted children, children in school with emotional, behavioural and mental health issues and adults in the community as 1:1 therapy and group work
Themes that Art Therapy can help are low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, bereavement, loss, trauma to name a few.
My name is Fiona Fitzpatrick and I am a registered Art Psychotherapist and EMDR Therapist working with children, young people and adults. I am passionate about how the creative process can heal and change a person, helping to understand ourselves and our circumstances & behaviour and with this awareness find acceptance and heal from suffering. You do not have to have any experience of art or any art skills to benefit from this therapy. I have 6 years experience of working with adopted children, children in school with emotional, behavioural and mental health issues and adults in the community as 1:1 therapy and group work
0191 580 4701 View 0191 580 4701
Photo of Mark James Douthwaite, MBACP, Counsellor
Mark James Douthwaite
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE15
Seeking a counsellor is a big step and one which can be celebrated. I encourage you to reach out. I provide a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental space where we can explore your thoughts and feelings together. As a qualified Psychotherapeutic Counsellor and Buteyko breathing instructor, I can help with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, grief, trauma, stress, anger, self-harm, low self-esteem, low confidence, existential and relationship issues, phobias, asthma, improving sports performance, early life issues, and more.
Seeking a counsellor is a big step and one which can be celebrated. I encourage you to reach out. I provide a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental space where we can explore your thoughts and feelings together. As a qualified Psychotherapeutic Counsellor and Buteyko breathing instructor, I can help with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, grief, trauma, stress, anger, self-harm, low self-esteem, low confidence, existential and relationship issues, phobias, asthma, improving sports performance, early life issues, and more.
01661 521097 View 01661 521097
Photo of David Simon, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
David Simon
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1
Many of my clients decide to work with me because something has changed in their life. The devastation of a loss or bereavement. Relationship difficulties. A decision to be made at a crossroads.
Many of my clients decide to work with me because something has changed in their life. The devastation of a loss or bereavement. Relationship difficulties. A decision to be made at a crossroads.
0191 917 9291 View 0191 917 9291
Photo of Georgia Fragkouli, DCounsPsych, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Georgia Fragkouli
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE2
I am working with a range of difficulties around: bereavement, anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, body image, self-harming, aggression, withdrawal, Autism, ADHD, bullying, abuse, neglect, domestic violence, cultural issues, divorce, health related issues, fostering and adoption process, relationship issues, trauma, developmental and attachment issues.
I am an Integrative Humanistic Psychotherapist and Psychotherapeutic Counsellor with specialisation in adults, children and young people. I am an Accredited Member by UKCP and a Registered Member of BACP. I offer therapy face to face and online. I practice in English and Greek. I work in a relational, attuned, and holistic way with clients. Clients say I am calm, gentle, and warm. In a non-judgmental, safe, caring, and confidential space, i help clients to go through psychological challenges by improving their relationship with themselves and others, as well as cope with everyday stressors and live more fulfilling lives.
I am working with a range of difficulties around: bereavement, anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, body image, self-harming, aggression, withdrawal, Autism, ADHD, bullying, abuse, neglect, domestic violence, cultural issues, divorce, health related issues, fostering and adoption process, relationship issues, trauma, developmental and attachment issues.
I am an Integrative Humanistic Psychotherapist and Psychotherapeutic Counsellor with specialisation in adults, children and young people. I am an Accredited Member by UKCP and a Registered Member of BACP. I offer therapy face to face and online. I practice in English and Greek. I work in a relational, attuned, and holistic way with clients. Clients say I am calm, gentle, and warm. In a non-judgmental, safe, caring, and confidential space, i help clients to go through psychological challenges by improving their relationship with themselves and others, as well as cope with everyday stressors and live more fulfilling lives.
0191 743 6502 View 0191 743 6502
Photo of Nicola Reid - Nicola Reid Counselling , MBACP, Counsellor
Nicola Reid Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE12  (Online Only)
I am a qualified psychotherapeutic counsellor and have helped many adult clients (16+) overcome a range of issues including historic trauma, unhelpful relationship patterns, self-harm, suicidal ideation, anxiety/panic, grief/ loss and low mood/depression. I wholeheartedly believe in the power of therapy to bring positive change, enabling my clients to achieve their goals and live their most positive life. I run an online clinic with a range of flexible appointment times and also offer a free 15 minute consultation to discuss your goals, answer any questions you may have and explain how I can support you to a positive outcome.
I am a qualified psychotherapeutic counsellor and have helped many adult clients (16+) overcome a range of issues including historic trauma, unhelpful relationship patterns, self-harm, suicidal ideation, anxiety/panic, grief/ loss and low mood/depression. I wholeheartedly believe in the power of therapy to bring positive change, enabling my clients to achieve their goals and live their most positive life. I run an online clinic with a range of flexible appointment times and also offer a free 15 minute consultation to discuss your goals, answer any questions you may have and explain how I can support you to a positive outcome.
0191 743 3279 View 0191 743 3279
Photo of Angela Watters, MBACP, Counsellor
Angela Watters
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE3
Hi, my name is Angie, I am a qualified, registered and integrative counsellor. As an integrative counsellor I can use flexibility and adaptation to allow us to work together on your unique journey in therapy. in our ever-evolving world we can often feel uncertain, anxious, unmotivated, or stuck. Exploring these feelings can help in regaining insight, possibility and hope. I am experienced in working with anxiety, stress, trauma, relationships, and facilitate a bereavement support group for a local counselling service.
Hi, my name is Angie, I am a qualified, registered and integrative counsellor. As an integrative counsellor I can use flexibility and adaptation to allow us to work together on your unique journey in therapy. in our ever-evolving world we can often feel uncertain, anxious, unmotivated, or stuck. Exploring these feelings can help in regaining insight, possibility and hope. I am experienced in working with anxiety, stress, trauma, relationships, and facilitate a bereavement support group for a local counselling service.
0191 743 2630 View 0191 743 2630
Photo of Jennie Larsson, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Jennie Larsson
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE3
I have over 12 years experience working with adults within the NHS across a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, grief, stress, relationship struggles and emotional difficulties, and a specialist interest in eating disorders.
Many people struggle with mental health difficulties at different times in their lives and can feel like it’s hard to make sense of this. I am a qualified Cognitive Analytic Therapist (CAT) and love working with CAT to help people gain an understanding of the way they relate to themselves and those around them and why they may struggle with this at times. I enjoy helping people to explore patterns that they may feel stuck with, and to learn how to make changes to these and find alternate ways of approaching different situations.
I have over 12 years experience working with adults within the NHS across a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, grief, stress, relationship struggles and emotional difficulties, and a specialist interest in eating disorders.
Many people struggle with mental health difficulties at different times in their lives and can feel like it’s hard to make sense of this. I am a qualified Cognitive Analytic Therapist (CAT) and love working with CAT to help people gain an understanding of the way they relate to themselves and those around them and why they may struggle with this at times. I enjoy helping people to explore patterns that they may feel stuck with, and to learn how to make changes to these and find alternate ways of approaching different situations.
0191 743 4604 View 0191 743 4604
Photo of Stephanie Kelly - Safe Space Psychology - Dr Stephanie Kelly, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Safe Space Psychology - Dr Stephanie Kelly
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE2
I am a Clinical Psychologist with experience working with clients struggling with relational difficulties, trauma and other emotional and other psychological difficulties such as complex grief, low mood and anxiety. Working with male, female and non-binary clients, my aim is to personalise all therapeutic approaches to each individual client's specific needs. Over the years, I have worked in a wide variety of settings including acute and secure hospitals, community mental health services as well as in custodial settings with experience supporting adults, adolescents and families.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with experience working with clients struggling with relational difficulties, trauma and other emotional and other psychological difficulties such as complex grief, low mood and anxiety. Working with male, female and non-binary clients, my aim is to personalise all therapeutic approaches to each individual client's specific needs. Over the years, I have worked in a wide variety of settings including acute and secure hospitals, community mental health services as well as in custodial settings with experience supporting adults, adolescents and families.
0191 743 0381 View 0191 743 0381
Photo of Dr Christina Jane Shahabeddin, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Christina Jane Shahabeddin
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE2
Hi, I'm Christina. I could name a list of diagnoses I work with, but I prefer to work with people rather than with labels. As a clinical psychologist with over 10 years of post qualification experience, I offer a personal, individual, integrative approach to evidence based therapy for a wide range of psychological, emotional or behavioural difficulties. I use models including EMDR, CBT, Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (CAT), for difficulties including Trauma and PTSD, grief, anxiety, low self esteem, insomnia, pregnancy, pregnancy loss and birth related complications or trauma, as we.
Hi, I'm Christina. I could name a list of diagnoses I work with, but I prefer to work with people rather than with labels. As a clinical psychologist with over 10 years of post qualification experience, I offer a personal, individual, integrative approach to evidence based therapy for a wide range of psychological, emotional or behavioural difficulties. I use models including EMDR, CBT, Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (CAT), for difficulties including Trauma and PTSD, grief, anxiety, low self esteem, insomnia, pregnancy, pregnancy loss and birth related complications or trauma, as we.
0191 743 0261 View 0191 743 0261
Photo of Peter Robinson-Vernon, MBACP, Counsellor
Peter Robinson-Vernon
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE3
I have a wide range of experience in clinical issues, I have worked with a range of ages from three years to sixty six year old clients. Specialising in anger management, bereavement, loss, stress, anxiety and depression, relationships and men's issues. All mental health issues can be talked about in person or via cyber counselling. I also offer experienced clinical supervision for counsellors, feel free to contact me for more information
I have a wide range of experience in clinical issues, I have worked with a range of ages from three years to sixty six year old clients. Specialising in anger management, bereavement, loss, stress, anxiety and depression, relationships and men's issues. All mental health issues can be talked about in person or via cyber counselling. I also offer experienced clinical supervision for counsellors, feel free to contact me for more information
0191 917 9619 View 0191 917 9619
1

See more therapy options for Newcastle upon Tyne

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.