Grief Therapists in Mobile, AL

Photo of Shanta Jenkins, MS, LPC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shanta Jenkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36609
Shanta is experienced in treating a variety of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, trauma, relationship/couples counseling, and self-esteem.
Shanta Jenkins is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a certified Master Addiction Counselor. She earned her Master's in Community Counseling and a Bachelor's in Psychology and Sociology from the University of South Alabama in Mobile, AL.
Shanta is experienced in treating a variety of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, trauma, relationship/couples counseling, and self-esteem.
Shanta Jenkins is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a certified Master Addiction Counselor. She earned her Master's in Community Counseling and a Bachelor's in Psychology and Sociology from the University of South Alabama in Mobile, AL.
(251) 244-1460 x1 View (251) 244-1460 x1
Photo of Hazel L Woodward, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hazel L Woodward
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36606
I specialize in the areas of addiction, profound grief/ bereavement, emotional trauma and Gottman Method Couples Therapy My style is humanistic and person centered, and my affect is candid but mindful.
"You are strong enough to face it all, even if it doesn't feel like it right now" . This quote speaks quite loudly to me because upon reflection, I find that Life has a way of interfering when I am busy doing something else. I have spent the better part of 25 years learning who I am and have willingly and sometimes unwillingly faced harsh realities I would not chose for anyone, much less myself. One of the most important things that has proven to be true for me, is that if I can find meaning in events that shattered my world or at the very least, shook it up, then my understanding and insight increased and I could find peace.
I specialize in the areas of addiction, profound grief/ bereavement, emotional trauma and Gottman Method Couples Therapy My style is humanistic and person centered, and my affect is candid but mindful.
"You are strong enough to face it all, even if it doesn't feel like it right now" . This quote speaks quite loudly to me because upon reflection, I find that Life has a way of interfering when I am busy doing something else. I have spent the better part of 25 years learning who I am and have willingly and sometimes unwillingly faced harsh realities I would not chose for anyone, much less myself. One of the most important things that has proven to be true for me, is that if I can find meaning in events that shattered my world or at the very least, shook it up, then my understanding and insight increased and I could find peace.
(251) 243-7639 View (251) 243-7639
Photo of Jessica McDonald, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36609
Therapy is a vital tool in processing (past or present) grief and trauma.
Life can be a bumpy road. The path we take can lead us to happiness or to despair. Making a wrong turn, not knowing which way to go or reaching what seems like a dead end is not the end of your journey. Sometimes we all need help getting to where we want to be. As a therapist, I help make your journey a more positive one. Grief or trauma can hinder you from moving forward. The loss of a loved one, job, relationship, pregnancy or even your life before illness or change can cause feelings of grief. Counseling helps work through the pain of your trauma or loss to experience joy again. The life you want is within reach.
Therapy is a vital tool in processing (past or present) grief and trauma.
Life can be a bumpy road. The path we take can lead us to happiness or to despair. Making a wrong turn, not knowing which way to go or reaching what seems like a dead end is not the end of your journey. Sometimes we all need help getting to where we want to be. As a therapist, I help make your journey a more positive one. Grief or trauma can hinder you from moving forward. The loss of a loved one, job, relationship, pregnancy or even your life before illness or change can cause feelings of grief. Counseling helps work through the pain of your trauma or loss to experience joy again. The life you want is within reach.
(251) 302-1693 View (251) 302-1693
Photo of Savannah O'Berry, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Savannah O'Berry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
There are ways to manage perinatal mental health, stress, anxiety, grief, loss, depression, or just day-to-day life, and I want to help you discover and explore simple ways to start living instead of just surviving.
Spiraling into negative thoughts is a daily struggle. Often, you feel yourself unraveling and the mask to which you cling to chips away little by little. You may have felt ok from time to time or just feel numb. You might feel overwhelmed with your other responsibilities or daily to-do list, or you might even forget what day of the week it is. This might be one of the hardest times for you because you know you need to get better but don't where to begin. The thought of self-care just feels exhausting, like a waste of time, or even a selfish desire.
There are ways to manage perinatal mental health, stress, anxiety, grief, loss, depression, or just day-to-day life, and I want to help you discover and explore simple ways to start living instead of just surviving.
Spiraling into negative thoughts is a daily struggle. Often, you feel yourself unraveling and the mask to which you cling to chips away little by little. You may have felt ok from time to time or just feel numb. You might feel overwhelmed with your other responsibilities or daily to-do list, or you might even forget what day of the week it is. This might be one of the hardest times for you because you know you need to get better but don't where to begin. The thought of self-care just feels exhausting, like a waste of time, or even a selfish desire.
(251) 297-2976 View (251) 297-2976
Photo of Allison Covington, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Covington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36618
I believe in recovery; recovery from addiction, trauma, grief, anxiety, unhealthy relationships, depression, and codependency.
The decision to seek counseling is not easy and it takes courage to try a new way! Now breathe! It is my hope that you will allow me to assist you in this exciting journey. I experience such joy in helping people find and live their true, authentic self. As a Licensed Professional Counselor for over 30 years, and life long resident of Mobile, I remain committed to serving our community by fostering growth and healing with those seeking individual and marriage therapy services.
I believe in recovery; recovery from addiction, trauma, grief, anxiety, unhealthy relationships, depression, and codependency.
The decision to seek counseling is not easy and it takes courage to try a new way! Now breathe! It is my hope that you will allow me to assist you in this exciting journey. I experience such joy in helping people find and live their true, authentic self. As a Licensed Professional Counselor for over 30 years, and life long resident of Mobile, I remain committed to serving our community by fostering growth and healing with those seeking individual and marriage therapy services.
(251) 241-5098 View (251) 241-5098
Photo of Savannah Parker, ALC, MS, Counselor
Savannah Parker
Counselor, ALC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
I have experience in processing trauma, providing support through new life stressors, and grief work.
As a therapist, I believe connection brings about healing. Because people are so unique, I don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach. Rather, I enter the counseling relationship authentically and meet my client where they are. From a practical standpoint, I enjoy helping people identify their attachment styles and how they approach the world and the people around them. I often incorporate techniques from ACT, CBT, and Positive Psychology, as I’m ultimately about empowering my clients to have the tools to live a healthy and thriving life.
I have experience in processing trauma, providing support through new life stressors, and grief work.
As a therapist, I believe connection brings about healing. Because people are so unique, I don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach. Rather, I enter the counseling relationship authentically and meet my client where they are. From a practical standpoint, I enjoy helping people identify their attachment styles and how they approach the world and the people around them. I often incorporate techniques from ACT, CBT, and Positive Psychology, as I’m ultimately about empowering my clients to have the tools to live a healthy and thriving life.
(251) 480-0070 View (251) 480-0070
Photo of Julie E. McMullen, MS, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie E. McMullen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36609
I work primarily with grief, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Hi! I am Julie McMullen, Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of H.O.P.E. Counseling and Consulting, LLC. H.O.P.E. stands for "Healing Our Painful Experiences.” I have worked in the mental health field for over 20 years, with 17 years of experience as a therapist. I have worked with adolescents and adults in a wide variety of settings including outpatient, residential, in-home, school-based, and day treatment. I am compassionate, non-judgmental, and have a good sense of humor. I am also an independent contractor/therapist at Collins Counseling & Associates, P.C.
I work primarily with grief, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Hi! I am Julie McMullen, Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of H.O.P.E. Counseling and Consulting, LLC. H.O.P.E. stands for "Healing Our Painful Experiences.” I have worked in the mental health field for over 20 years, with 17 years of experience as a therapist. I have worked with adolescents and adults in a wide variety of settings including outpatient, residential, in-home, school-based, and day treatment. I am compassionate, non-judgmental, and have a good sense of humor. I am also an independent contractor/therapist at Collins Counseling & Associates, P.C.
(251) 244-9067 View (251) 244-9067
Photo of Shivani Bhakta, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shivani Bhakta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
I have experience working with grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenthood, relationship/family difficulties, trauma, and racial issues/identity.
Accepting NEW clients — Life is challenging with its many twists and turns which make it difficult to overcome adversities. I am here to help you overcome those difficulties and obstacles that occur in day to day living. I believe that with compassion and empathy I can help you achieve your goals. It can feel overwhelming and lonely when going through difficult times, but I am here to tell you that you are not alone. I will be there throughout your journey of self-exploration, achievements, and resolution of goals.
I have experience working with grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenthood, relationship/family difficulties, trauma, and racial issues/identity.
Accepting NEW clients — Life is challenging with its many twists and turns which make it difficult to overcome adversities. I am here to help you overcome those difficulties and obstacles that occur in day to day living. I believe that with compassion and empathy I can help you achieve your goals. It can feel overwhelming and lonely when going through difficult times, but I am here to tell you that you are not alone. I will be there throughout your journey of self-exploration, achievements, and resolution of goals.
(251) 262-2796 View (251) 262-2796
Photo of Joy S. Grafton, LICSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joy S. Grafton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
I have over 10 years of Clinical experience counseling in a variety of roles including loss and grief, anxiety, foster care/adoption, trauma and other family services.
Do you ever feel life is beating you down? Are you experiencing a change in life? Do you feel broken, stressed or exhausted? I named my practice Restore because I believe that counseling can offer you the opportunity to bring back the feeling of wholeness you may have once felt in life. I believe in the importance and beauty of life. When life changes it can be an opportunity for you to gain new skills to deal with your emotions. Just like you would see a doctor or set exercise goals, your emotional health is just as important to your overall health. I can work with you to help you bring new beauty out of the struggles of life.
I have over 10 years of Clinical experience counseling in a variety of roles including loss and grief, anxiety, foster care/adoption, trauma and other family services.
Do you ever feel life is beating you down? Are you experiencing a change in life? Do you feel broken, stressed or exhausted? I named my practice Restore because I believe that counseling can offer you the opportunity to bring back the feeling of wholeness you may have once felt in life. I believe in the importance and beauty of life. When life changes it can be an opportunity for you to gain new skills to deal with your emotions. Just like you would see a doctor or set exercise goals, your emotional health is just as important to your overall health. I can work with you to help you bring new beauty out of the struggles of life.
(251) 292-9651 View (251) 292-9651
Photo of Angelia Clausell Davis, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angelia Clausell Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who is seeking help for their mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or relationship issues. They are motivated to work on their issues and are open to exploring new coping strategies and treatment options. Their needs revolve around feeling supported, validated, and understood in a nonjudgmental and safe environment. They are looking for guidance and direction to navigate through their struggles and make positive changes in their life. Their goals may include improving their self-esteem, developing healthier coping mechanisms, and creating more fulfilling relationships.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking help for their mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or relationship issues. They are motivated to work on their issues and are open to exploring new coping strategies and treatment options. Their needs revolve around feeling supported, validated, and understood in a nonjudgmental and safe environment. They are looking for guidance and direction to navigate through their struggles and make positive changes in their life. Their goals may include improving their self-esteem, developing healthier coping mechanisms, and creating more fulfilling relationships.
(251) 250-0851 View (251) 250-0851
Photo of Ross Hunter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ross Hunter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36602
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, grief, and difficult life transitions, in addition to working with a number of different other psychological issues, such as ADHD, OCD, substance use, trauma, self-esteem, men’s issues, anger, and relationship problems. I integrate a number therapeutic models in my work, including ACT, Existential Psychotherapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy,
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, grief, and difficult life transitions, in addition to working with a number of different other psychological issues, such as ADHD, OCD, substance use, trauma, self-esteem, men’s issues, anger, and relationship problems. I integrate a number therapeutic models in my work, including ACT, Existential Psychotherapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy,
(251) 577-5075 View (251) 577-5075
Photo of Shannon S Crenshaw, MEd, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon S Crenshaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36607
I work with such issues as depression, chronic pain, anxiety, trauma, grief counseling, family disruptions and transitions.
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
I work with such issues as depression, chronic pain, anxiety, trauma, grief counseling, family disruptions and transitions.
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
(205) 583-0367 View (205) 583-0367
Photo of Suzanne Brown Glass, MA, LPC, Counselor
Suzanne Brown Glass
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36606
Other issues addressed in session may include grief and loss, adjustment struggles, divorce, relationship issues, and family conflict/resolution.
“When a person realizes he has been deeply heard, his eyes moisten. I think in some real sense he is weeping for joy. It is as though he were saying, ‘Thank God, somebody heard me. Someone knows what it’s like to be me" (Carl Rogers). I believe that therapy is an equal partnership and I view my clients as experts in their own lives. Through mutual respect, empathetic listening, and positive regard, I work alongside my clients to help them find resolution and peace.
Other issues addressed in session may include grief and loss, adjustment struggles, divorce, relationship issues, and family conflict/resolution.
“When a person realizes he has been deeply heard, his eyes moisten. I think in some real sense he is weeping for joy. It is as though he were saying, ‘Thank God, somebody heard me. Someone knows what it’s like to be me" (Carl Rogers). I believe that therapy is an equal partnership and I view my clients as experts in their own lives. Through mutual respect, empathetic listening, and positive regard, I work alongside my clients to help them find resolution and peace.
(251) 220-1617 View (251) 220-1617
Photo of Krissy DeVito, LPC, ADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krissy DeVito
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ADC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36601
I have experience working with clients with varying issues including substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and grief.
First and foremost, I seek to provide clients with a supportive and encouraging experience. I believe it is important to meet people where they are at and work collaboratively to accomplish treatment goals. I am competent and capable of employing numerous theoretical frameworks including Person-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral theory but will utilize the one that is most beneficial to addressing your own individual needs.
I have experience working with clients with varying issues including substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and grief.
First and foremost, I seek to provide clients with a supportive and encouraging experience. I believe it is important to meet people where they are at and work collaboratively to accomplish treatment goals. I am competent and capable of employing numerous theoretical frameworks including Person-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral theory but will utilize the one that is most beneficial to addressing your own individual needs.
(256) 364-4720 View (256) 364-4720
Photo of Cecelia Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cecelia Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36695  (Online Only)
My name is Cecelia D. Johnson, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Alabama and Mississippi. My practice is located in Mobile, Alabama providing in-person and virtual therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults specializing in areas such as stress and anger management, effective communication, behavioral issues, family relationships, grief, life-changing events, couple and marital relationships. I utilize Solution Therapy to assist my Clients in developing and improving their personal skills in addressing issues impacting their lives.
My name is Cecelia D. Johnson, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Alabama and Mississippi. My practice is located in Mobile, Alabama providing in-person and virtual therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults specializing in areas such as stress and anger management, effective communication, behavioral issues, family relationships, grief, life-changing events, couple and marital relationships. I utilize Solution Therapy to assist my Clients in developing and improving their personal skills in addressing issues impacting their lives.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Connie Vais Fleming, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Connie Vais Fleming
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36695
I am excited to be accepting new patients at my new practice. I offer clinical therapy to children, adolescents, their families and adults. I have a number of years of specialized clinical training, strong commitment to the advancement of my career, and offer therapeutic guidance & support to my clients. I work with women of all ages, children and teens. I specialize in treating emotional and physical trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression. I also am very passionate about my work with children and families with issues related to adoption & attachment trauma/wounds.
I am excited to be accepting new patients at my new practice. I offer clinical therapy to children, adolescents, their families and adults. I have a number of years of specialized clinical training, strong commitment to the advancement of my career, and offer therapeutic guidance & support to my clients. I work with women of all ages, children and teens. I specialize in treating emotional and physical trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression. I also am very passionate about my work with children and families with issues related to adoption & attachment trauma/wounds.
(251) 766-5838 View (251) 766-5838
Photo of Kenya Wilcox, LMSW
Kenya Wilcox
LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36605  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, grief, personality disorders, and substance dependency.
I genuinely believe that life is a roller coaster. In today's world, “life will life you,” and it is up to me to assist you when that happens. In a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential environment, you are the expert, and I am here to assist the expert in reaching their goal. In our therapeutic partnership, we will identify issues, triggers, strengths, and barriers. We will also formulate strategies that will allow you to push through obstacles and reach milestones. “Life be life-ing” sometimes; However, I am here to support and assist!
I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, grief, personality disorders, and substance dependency.
I genuinely believe that life is a roller coaster. In today's world, “life will life you,” and it is up to me to assist you when that happens. In a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential environment, you are the expert, and I am here to assist the expert in reaching their goal. In our therapeutic partnership, we will identify issues, triggers, strengths, and barriers. We will also formulate strategies that will allow you to push through obstacles and reach milestones. “Life be life-ing” sometimes; However, I am here to support and assist!
(334) 249-3815 View (334) 249-3815
Photo of Rita Metz, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rita Metz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
Welcome! If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, navigating life transitions, coping with infertility, facing pregnancy and postpartum mental health challenges I’m here to walk this journey alongside you. Whether you’re seeking peace, confidence, or any other form of healing. My ultimate goal is for you to feel supported, safe, and empowered on your journey to healing. Together, we can work towards restoring your well-being and finding the peace and confidence you seek. I’m here to support you every step of the way. Feel free to reach out to start your healing journey.
Welcome! If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, navigating life transitions, coping with infertility, facing pregnancy and postpartum mental health challenges I’m here to walk this journey alongside you. Whether you’re seeking peace, confidence, or any other form of healing. My ultimate goal is for you to feel supported, safe, and empowered on your journey to healing. Together, we can work towards restoring your well-being and finding the peace and confidence you seek. I’m here to support you every step of the way. Feel free to reach out to start your healing journey.
(251) 577-4780 View (251) 577-4780
Photo of LaJuan Humbert, LPC, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LaJuan Humbert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36607
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize evidence-based methods with adolescents, adults & couples dealing with the effects of trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, loss/ grief & relationship issues.
We each have a unique story. Often, those stories can include very difficult & painful events or seasons that can negatively impact our view of ourselves, how we relate with others & our ability to live & cope with life in the ways that we desire. This can lead to feeling confused, overwhelmed, exhausted, stuck, or even hopeless. Trauma, loss, difficult relationships & other life disappointments can all wreak havoc on our bodies, minds, emotions & relationships. Things CAN be different. Relief, growth & healing are possible. It takes tremendous courage to reach out for help. We are not meant to walk our journeys alone.
I utilize evidence-based methods with adolescents, adults & couples dealing with the effects of trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, loss/ grief & relationship issues.
We each have a unique story. Often, those stories can include very difficult & painful events or seasons that can negatively impact our view of ourselves, how we relate with others & our ability to live & cope with life in the ways that we desire. This can lead to feeling confused, overwhelmed, exhausted, stuck, or even hopeless. Trauma, loss, difficult relationships & other life disappointments can all wreak havoc on our bodies, minds, emotions & relationships. Things CAN be different. Relief, growth & healing are possible. It takes tremendous courage to reach out for help. We are not meant to walk our journeys alone.
(251) 298-8028 View (251) 298-8028
Photo of Al Wright, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Al Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36609
Al’ Wright is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling / Psychology and Bachelor’s Degrees in Behavioral Science and Psychology. Al is skilled in assisting clients with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and adjustment issues.
Al’ Wright is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling / Psychology and Bachelor’s Degrees in Behavioral Science and Psychology. Al is skilled in assisting clients with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and adjustment issues.
(251) 313-1549 x1 View (251) 313-1549 x1
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Grief Therapists

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.