Grief Psychiatrists in Boston, MA

Photo of Beth Makar, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Beth Makar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Beth and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Massachusetts. I specialize in ADHD, , Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Infertility, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Life Transitions, Loss, grief, bereavement, Men's Issues, OCD, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Sexual Health/Dysfunction, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Stress Management and Women's Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Beth and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Massachusetts. I specialize in ADHD, , Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Infertility, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Life Transitions, Loss, grief, bereavement, Men's Issues, OCD, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Sexual Health/Dysfunction, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Stress Management and Women's Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(617) 944-5189 View (617) 944-5189
Photo of Terri Marie Clack, PMHNP-B, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Terri Marie Clack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
I'm experienced in supporting individuals with conditions such as ADHD, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, PMDD, PPD, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorders, and grief.
Hello! Feeling burned out, unmotivated, and unfocused is a common struggle for many adults today. Balancing the relentless demands of work and personal life can be overwhelming. You're not alone in this journey, and I'm here to help you find your way back to a place of balance and well-being. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my approach is all about understanding your unique needs and crafting a tailored treatment plan. I firmly believe in a holistic perspective that takes into account both your physical and mental well-being.
I'm experienced in supporting individuals with conditions such as ADHD, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, PMDD, PPD, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorders, and grief.
Hello! Feeling burned out, unmotivated, and unfocused is a common struggle for many adults today. Balancing the relentless demands of work and personal life can be overwhelming. You're not alone in this journey, and I'm here to help you find your way back to a place of balance and well-being. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my approach is all about understanding your unique needs and crafting a tailored treatment plan. I firmly believe in a holistic perspective that takes into account both your physical and mental well-being.
(781) 208-5887 View (781) 208-5887
Photo of Claudio O. Toppelberg, MD, Psychiatrist
Claudio O. Toppelberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02120
Dr. Toppelberg is an experienced, Harvard-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist, usually working with ages 3-30. He evaluates and treats emotional/ behavioral difficulties including ADHD, depression, trauma, stress, anxiety, and selective mutism, and those preventing weight loss. He has focused on issues of performance at work, study and competitive sports. He regularly works with tour-level tennis players and other professional and student athletes. He is an expert in neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as learning and language disabilities. He runs psychiatric services at an excellent school for children/adolescents with autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities, the prestigious New England Center for Children.
Dr. Toppelberg is an experienced, Harvard-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist, usually working with ages 3-30. He evaluates and treats emotional/ behavioral difficulties including ADHD, depression, trauma, stress, anxiety, and selective mutism, and those preventing weight loss. He has focused on issues of performance at work, study and competitive sports. He regularly works with tour-level tennis players and other professional and student athletes. He is an expert in neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as learning and language disabilities. He runs psychiatric services at an excellent school for children/adolescents with autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities, the prestigious New England Center for Children.
(617) 681-7184 View (617) 681-7184
Photo of Rachel Zagarella - Holistic Well , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Well
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
I help people who suffer from anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, PTSD, who experience neurodivergence, personality disorders, post-partum depression, people dealing with issues related to grief or adjustment.
Hello and welcome! My name is Rachel Zagarella and I am a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on providing compassionate care for individuals seeking support with their mental health. With a deep commitment to helping others, I specialize in understanding your unique needs and developing personalized treatment plans. Through evidence-based practices and a collaborative approach, we can work together to enhance your mental well-being. Take the first step by scheduling a consultation, and let’s embark on your journey towards lasting wellness.
I help people who suffer from anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, PTSD, who experience neurodivergence, personality disorders, post-partum depression, people dealing with issues related to grief or adjustment.
Hello and welcome! My name is Rachel Zagarella and I am a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on providing compassionate care for individuals seeking support with their mental health. With a deep commitment to helping others, I specialize in understanding your unique needs and developing personalized treatment plans. Through evidence-based practices and a collaborative approach, we can work together to enhance your mental well-being. Take the first step by scheduling a consultation, and let’s embark on your journey towards lasting wellness.
(508) 690-8110 View (508) 690-8110
Photo of Carol Count Robinson, PhD, ANP-BC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carol Count Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, ANP-BC, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Carol Robinson and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Massachusetts. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Chronic Illness, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Maternal Mental Health/Pre/Postpartum, PTSD/Trauma, Loss/Grief/Bereavement, OCD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Carol Robinson and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Massachusetts. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Chronic Illness, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Maternal Mental Health/Pre/Postpartum, PTSD/Trauma, Loss/Grief/Bereavement, OCD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(617) 380-4683 View (617) 380-4683
Photo of Marsha Charlton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marsha Charlton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
Marsha's diverse clinical background enables her to treat various mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, sleep disorders, and addiction.
Marsha Charlton is a highly skilled and compassionate Family and Psychiatric Mental Health. Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), holding dual board certifications and boasting over ten years of medical expertise aims to provide accessible and comprehensive mental healthcare to individuals from all walks of life. Marsha has a wealth of experience caring for patients with diverse backgrounds in different settings, including primary care, surgical, psychiatric, and veterans throughout Boston. She approaches her work with a culturally attuned, down-to-earth style that helps her clients feel comfortable and at ease.
Marsha's diverse clinical background enables her to treat various mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, sleep disorders, and addiction.
Marsha Charlton is a highly skilled and compassionate Family and Psychiatric Mental Health. Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), holding dual board certifications and boasting over ten years of medical expertise aims to provide accessible and comprehensive mental healthcare to individuals from all walks of life. Marsha has a wealth of experience caring for patients with diverse backgrounds in different settings, including primary care, surgical, psychiatric, and veterans throughout Boston. She approaches her work with a culturally attuned, down-to-earth style that helps her clients feel comfortable and at ease.
(617) 765-1965 View (617) 765-1965
Photo of Jarrod A. Marks - Jarrod A. Marks, MD , MD, Psychiatrist
Jarrod A. Marks, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02101  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. As a physician, I diagnose and treat a wide range of mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I also work with people who are suffering in life from issues such as relationship or career concerns, grief and loss, life transitions, or identity issues. I will help you to know yourself better so you can experience life more fully.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. As a physician, I diagnose and treat a wide range of mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I also work with people who are suffering in life from issues such as relationship or career concerns, grief and loss, life transitions, or identity issues. I will help you to know yourself better so you can experience life more fully.
(315) 365-5586 View (315) 365-5586
Photo of Vibrant Minds - Vibrant Minds and Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vibrant Minds and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
WMW offers initial psychiatric evaluations, medication management, medical weight loss solutions, and bioidentical hormone replacement.
Accepting new patients! with same week appointments available.Meet our team: Carmen Guy,MSN,PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC is a double board certified nurse practitioner and Shaun Spanos, MSN, PMHNP-BC are esteemed healthcare professionals that bring a wealth of expertise, and are committed to providing comprehensive psychiatric and wellness solutions to our community.Both providers have a special interest in substance abuse treatment, the LGBTQ & first responders comnnuity, Carmen is a native Spanish speaker (se tabla Espanol) who also provides psychotherapy.
WMW offers initial psychiatric evaluations, medication management, medical weight loss solutions, and bioidentical hormone replacement.
Accepting new patients! with same week appointments available.Meet our team: Carmen Guy,MSN,PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC is a double board certified nurse practitioner and Shaun Spanos, MSN, PMHNP-BC are esteemed healthcare professionals that bring a wealth of expertise, and are committed to providing comprehensive psychiatric and wellness solutions to our community.Both providers have a special interest in substance abuse treatment, the LGBTQ & first responders comnnuity, Carmen is a native Spanish speaker (se tabla Espanol) who also provides psychotherapy.
(339) 218-5822 View (339) 218-5822
Photo of Chaya Bhuvaneswaran, MD , MA, MPH, Psychiatrist
Chaya Bhuvaneswaran
Psychiatrist, MD , MA, MPH
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
I am a Harvard trained, Board Certified, Psychiatrist with a private practice in the Back Bay Area, Boston. My training includes my MD from Stanford with honors, Harvard residency training at MGH-McLean, and my certification in cognitive behavioral therapy (for anxiety, depression and PTSD) while I was faculty at the University of Pennsylvania and University of Massachusetts. My outpatient clinic was previously at Cambridge Health Alliance and I now run a boutique private practice offering personalized, attentive care and support. Narrative therapy and mindfulness training are included along with meticulous psychopharmacology.
I am a Harvard trained, Board Certified, Psychiatrist with a private practice in the Back Bay Area, Boston. My training includes my MD from Stanford with honors, Harvard residency training at MGH-McLean, and my certification in cognitive behavioral therapy (for anxiety, depression and PTSD) while I was faculty at the University of Pennsylvania and University of Massachusetts. My outpatient clinic was previously at Cambridge Health Alliance and I now run a boutique private practice offering personalized, attentive care and support. Narrative therapy and mindfulness training are included along with meticulous psychopharmacology.
(857) 227-9022 View (857) 227-9022
Photo of Scott Arno, PA, Physician Assistant
Scott Arno
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02129
Scott Arno, PA, is an accomplished physician assistant with over 8 years of experience and a strong commitment to enhancing mental health care for his patients. Graduating from Clarkson University, Scott's primary goal is to deepen his understanding of mental illness, ensuring that every individual receives optimized care to improve their overall quality of life. Scott's career journey reflects his dedication to providing comprehensive healthcare:
Scott Arno, PA, is an accomplished physician assistant with over 8 years of experience and a strong commitment to enhancing mental health care for his patients. Graduating from Clarkson University, Scott's primary goal is to deepen his understanding of mental illness, ensuring that every individual receives optimized care to improve their overall quality of life. Scott's career journey reflects his dedication to providing comprehensive healthcare:
(617) 958-6048 View (617) 958-6048
Photo of Sandra Bellerice -  Inspired by Belsa,  Mental Health & Wellness, LLC, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Inspired by Belsa, Mental Health & Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02126
Welcome to Inspired by Belsa! Meet Sandra Bellerice, a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in depression and anxiety. Sandra listens to your unique needs, manages medication, and offers tailored psychotherapy. Never feel alone with a healthcare provider like Sandra. Your treatment is personalized and follows evidence-based guidelines. Share your story, and let Sandra guide you to a brighter, healthier path. You deserve to live your life to the fullest.
Welcome to Inspired by Belsa! Meet Sandra Bellerice, a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in depression and anxiety. Sandra listens to your unique needs, manages medication, and offers tailored psychotherapy. Never feel alone with a healthcare provider like Sandra. Your treatment is personalized and follows evidence-based guidelines. Share your story, and let Sandra guide you to a brighter, healthier path. You deserve to live your life to the fullest.
(781) 390-9348 View (781) 390-9348
Photo of Patricia Ngaruiya, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patricia Ngaruiya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135
Patricia, an accomplished mental health professional, holds a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from Rivier University, graduating with high honors. Boasting nearly two decades of invaluable experience, she has made significant contributions to the field, particularly in psychiatric nursing where she has provided direct care services, including expert medication management, to a diverse range of clients in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
Patricia, an accomplished mental health professional, holds a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from Rivier University, graduating with high honors. Boasting nearly two decades of invaluable experience, she has made significant contributions to the field, particularly in psychiatric nursing where she has provided direct care services, including expert medication management, to a diverse range of clients in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(617) 958-2805 View (617) 958-2805
Photo of Dr. Carlos Suarez - Carlos Suarez MD PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Carlos Suarez MD PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Harvard-trained. Johns Hopkins-trained. Because expertise and experience matter. If you or your child is having difficulties with your relationships, your academic/professional demands, or your emotional well-being, I can help. I assist professionals, business leaders, and other high achievers in removing the psychological barriers that interfere with their progress so that they can reach their full potential. In order to focus exclusively on my patients, I do not accept any medical insurance. However, your medical insurance company may reimburse you for a significant portion of your paid fees (you must contact your insurance company for details).
Harvard-trained. Johns Hopkins-trained. Because expertise and experience matter. If you or your child is having difficulties with your relationships, your academic/professional demands, or your emotional well-being, I can help. I assist professionals, business leaders, and other high achievers in removing the psychological barriers that interfere with their progress so that they can reach their full potential. In order to focus exclusively on my patients, I do not accept any medical insurance. However, your medical insurance company may reimburse you for a significant portion of your paid fees (you must contact your insurance company for details).
(617) 431-2019 View (617) 431-2019
Photo of Angela Wandungu, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Wandungu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
Angela is a dedicated and empathetic Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (NP) with extensive experience in providing comprehensive mental health care. Her career has been focused on supporting individuals facing various challenges, including anxiety disorders, depression, substance use, ADHD, and sleep disorders, and navigating life experiences such as dating, career development, and relationships. With a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health.
Angela is a dedicated and empathetic Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (NP) with extensive experience in providing comprehensive mental health care. Her career has been focused on supporting individuals facing various challenges, including anxiety disorders, depression, substance use, ADHD, and sleep disorders, and navigating life experiences such as dating, career development, and relationships. With a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health.
(347) 934-8778 View (347) 934-8778
Photo of Angela Fontenot - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(857) 598-7498 View (857) 598-7498
Photo of Brittany Palacios, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Palacios
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
Welcome to Grow Therapy. My name is Brittany Palacios and am currently a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Massachusetts. Establishing a therapeutic alliance with clients is essential. I prioritize an individual's ability to listen and receive feedback. I have over 10 years of clinical experience working as a registered nurse at the bedside. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Worcester State University in 2011. I graduated from Regis College in 2018 where I received my Master’s degree in advanced psychiatric nursing.
Welcome to Grow Therapy. My name is Brittany Palacios and am currently a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Massachusetts. Establishing a therapeutic alliance with clients is essential. I prioritize an individual's ability to listen and receive feedback. I have over 10 years of clinical experience working as a registered nurse at the bedside. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Worcester State University in 2011. I graduated from Regis College in 2018 where I received my Master’s degree in advanced psychiatric nursing.
(617) 751-1530 View (617) 751-1530
Photo of Philip Sullivan, MD, Psychiatrist
Philip Sullivan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
Doctor Phillip Sullivan is a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board certified in both adult psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry. His interest in psychiatric treatment was originally triggered by the humanistic writings of Abraham Maslow, Carl Rogers, and Rollo May. As he earned his medical degree and started post-graduate psychiatric training, he went on to learn psycho-pharmacological, cognitive-behavioral, and psychodynamic treatment approaches.
Doctor Phillip Sullivan is a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board certified in both adult psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry. His interest in psychiatric treatment was originally triggered by the humanistic writings of Abraham Maslow, Carl Rogers, and Rollo May. As he earned his medical degree and started post-graduate psychiatric training, he went on to learn psycho-pharmacological, cognitive-behavioral, and psychodynamic treatment approaches.
(617) 397-7728 View (617) 397-7728
Photo of Maria Thompson, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maria Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115
Hi there, I'm Maria! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, Insomnia, bipolar disorders, substance abuse, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Schizophrenia/Psychosis, ADHD, and others I'm here to help. One of my passions is creating Healing communities- my nurse residency capstone involved creating the inpatient psychiatric family mental health recovery group; main objective was to provide psychoeducation.
Hi there, I'm Maria! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, Insomnia, bipolar disorders, substance abuse, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Schizophrenia/Psychosis, ADHD, and others I'm here to help. One of my passions is creating Healing communities- my nurse residency capstone involved creating the inpatient psychiatric family mental health recovery group; main objective was to provide psychoeducation.
(617) 397-4895 View (617) 397-4895
Photo of Jacine Yael Vilches, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacine Yael Vilches
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my ideal client would be someone who is open, motivated, and committed to their healing and personal growth journey. They may be struggling with various mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma. However, they recognize the need for professional support and are willing to actively engage in the therapeutic process.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my ideal client would be someone who is open, motivated, and committed to their healing and personal growth journey. They may be struggling with various mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma. However, they recognize the need for professional support and are willing to actively engage in the therapeutic process.
(617) 925-9508 View (617) 925-9508
Photo of Joe Gallego, MD, Psychiatrist
Joe Gallego
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110
Making the decision to pursue psychiatric treatment requires courage and motivation. As your psychiatrist, I honor your willingness to be vulnerable with me by being transparent with you throughout our work together. My clinical approach balances directness with empathy, shared expectation with flexibility, and professionalism with humor and warmth. I provide psychiatric evaluations, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and medication management to adolescents and adults. I am passionate about caring for LGBTQIA+ people, and I have been researching and teaching about queer issues in health care for the past ten years.
Making the decision to pursue psychiatric treatment requires courage and motivation. As your psychiatrist, I honor your willingness to be vulnerable with me by being transparent with you throughout our work together. My clinical approach balances directness with empathy, shared expectation with flexibility, and professionalism with humor and warmth. I provide psychiatric evaluations, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and medication management to adolescents and adults. I am passionate about caring for LGBTQIA+ people, and I have been researching and teaching about queer issues in health care for the past ten years.
(508) 374-9271 View (508) 374-9271
Grief Psychiatrists

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.