Grief Therapists in Iowa
![Photo of Jaret M Morlan, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/facf2f34-8b44-461e-a226-9aadb78e55fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Iowa, and I work with adults (18 and up) in both individual and couples therapy. I have experience working with diverse clients on a wide-range of concerns, that include grief and loss, anxiety, depression, substance use, family-of-origin concerns, interpersonal functioning, trauma, identity-based concerns, and sex/intimacy concerns. I work best with individuals who are motivated and interested in change, and in engaging with deep exploration of their own behaviors and experiences.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Iowa, and I work with adults (18 and up) in both individual and couples therapy. I have experience working with diverse clients on a wide-range of concerns, that include grief and loss, anxiety, depression, substance use, family-of-origin concerns, interpersonal functioning, trauma, identity-based concerns, and sex/intimacy concerns. I work best with individuals who are motivated and interested in change, and in engaging with deep exploration of their own behaviors and experiences.
![Photo of John Michael Cilek, MA, tLMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c670683-a931-4969-bcb4-46af5f521399/3/320x400.jpeg)
John Michael Cilek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, tLMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52245
I am drawn to working with stories and metaphors for the ways they may provide access to emotions and language to better understand who we are, what matters, and how we find - or rediscover - energy and comfort, particularly in the context of life transitions, grief, and loss.
Now accepting new clients (UI Gradcare, SHIP, UIChoice) - near campus in Northside of Iowa City & on bus routes > For so many of us, life can be overwhelming, disorienting, and difficult. In working with you, my hope is to have an opportunity to slow down, to be curious, and to uncover deeper meaning and connections within ourselves and in relating to others. Your particular knowledge, challenges, experiences, and expertise will be listened to carefully and sensitively responded to with transparency, kindness, and compassion. It is my commitment to greet you in each session with trust, a calm presence, and unconditional hospitality.
I am drawn to working with stories and metaphors for the ways they may provide access to emotions and language to better understand who we are, what matters, and how we find - or rediscover - energy and comfort, particularly in the context of life transitions, grief, and loss.
Now accepting new clients (UI Gradcare, SHIP, UIChoice) - near campus in Northside of Iowa City & on bus routes > For so many of us, life can be overwhelming, disorienting, and difficult. In working with you, my hope is to have an opportunity to slow down, to be curious, and to uncover deeper meaning and connections within ourselves and in relating to others. Your particular knowledge, challenges, experiences, and expertise will be listened to carefully and sensitively responded to with transparency, kindness, and compassion. It is my commitment to greet you in each session with trust, a calm presence, and unconditional hospitality.
![Photo of Alicia Peña, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a82d554-100a-41b0-af20-325828de8d9e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! Life is a continual journey of healing the mind, body, and spirit. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I provide individual and family therapy. My passion is working with people from multi-cultural populations who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief/loss, anger, irritability, stress, and substance abuse. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant, (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and offer Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy,
Welcome! Life is a continual journey of healing the mind, body, and spirit. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I provide individual and family therapy. My passion is working with people from multi-cultural populations who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief/loss, anger, irritability, stress, and substance abuse. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant, (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and offer Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy,
![Photo of Natalie Quinn Depression - Anxiety - Trauma Specialist, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7fc745a-7570-494d-a07d-510657554456/4/320x400.jpeg)
Natalie Quinn Depression - Anxiety - Trauma Specialist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
As a Licensed Independent Social Worker, I specialize in providing support to adults navigating a range of challenges including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and life transitions.
“Your doubts create mountains. Your actions move them.” – Mel Robbins. The journey of life is filled with challenges. When depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or significant life transitions enter the picture, it can feel overwhelming. Coping with the flood of emotions and the sense of isolation that often accompanies stress and loss can be daunting. Trying to tackle these issues alone or ignoring them may only intensify the emotional turmoil. However, you don't have to navigate this path solo. Therapy offers a supportive and collaborative space where we can explore your unique personality, values and strengths.
As a Licensed Independent Social Worker, I specialize in providing support to adults navigating a range of challenges including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and life transitions.
“Your doubts create mountains. Your actions move them.” – Mel Robbins. The journey of life is filled with challenges. When depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or significant life transitions enter the picture, it can feel overwhelming. Coping with the flood of emotions and the sense of isolation that often accompanies stress and loss can be daunting. Trying to tackle these issues alone or ignoring them may only intensify the emotional turmoil. However, you don't have to navigate this path solo. Therapy offers a supportive and collaborative space where we can explore your unique personality, values and strengths.
![Photo of Samantha Ness, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2aadf10a-a66d-4d04-a0ce-0a3d550e0179/1/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Ness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Hi, I’m Sam! I’m a mental health provider who strives to create a safe and inclusive environment for all with consistent encouragement to come as you are. I work with individuals on grief and loss, and in addition to bereavement I work with adults, adolescents, children, and families on topics such as anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and family dynamics.
Hi, I’m Sam! I’m a mental health provider who strives to create a safe and inclusive environment for all with consistent encouragement to come as you are. I work with individuals on grief and loss, and in addition to bereavement I work with adults, adolescents, children, and families on topics such as anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and family dynamics.
![Photo of Caroline Oestreich - Here With You Counseling (Caroline Oestreich LISW), MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc02ccf9-a34d-4805-8686-d8101533573e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Here With You Counseling (Caroline Oestreich LISW)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Hello, therapy seeker! Sometimes we need a little help to find the answers within ourselves. This is an environment for individuals that are open to self-exploration and are motivated to improve their well-being. Here, you're ready to develop improved coping skills and find relief from negative thought patterns and persistent feelings of distress. I work closely with individuals experiencing grief, stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Hello, therapy seeker! Sometimes we need a little help to find the answers within ourselves. This is an environment for individuals that are open to self-exploration and are motivated to improve their well-being. Here, you're ready to develop improved coping skills and find relief from negative thought patterns and persistent feelings of distress. I work closely with individuals experiencing grief, stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
![Photo of Elizabeth Finley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/903b3b1d-84e7-4504-925b-4ebe41d2b176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Finley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
Being stuck in an emotional tornado with no end is devastating. The past year+ has been full of hurt, fear, loss, and the unexpected... to say the least. You end up feeling lost, unsure of yourself, your relationships, your job, your whole world. You end up feeling alone, feeling a hole in your body that can't or is refusing to be filled, feeling like shit at the end of most days. Sometimes you see a glimmer of hope... yet you doubt it's real.
Being stuck in an emotional tornado with no end is devastating. The past year+ has been full of hurt, fear, loss, and the unexpected... to say the least. You end up feeling lost, unsure of yourself, your relationships, your job, your whole world. You end up feeling alone, feeling a hole in your body that can't or is refusing to be filled, feeling like shit at the end of most days. Sometimes you see a glimmer of hope... yet you doubt it's real.
![Photo of Nancy K. Vermeersch, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46fec8b2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nancy K. Vermeersch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
WELCOME! You may be struggling with an unhappy relationship, grieving the loss of a loved one, feeling depressed or anxious, interested in improving your life balance and wellness, or simply wanting a closer relationship with God. If so, I invite you to call me for a consultation. We can identify new patterns, coping skills and strategies so you can feel you are thriving in life with success and joy.
WELCOME! You may be struggling with an unhappy relationship, grieving the loss of a loved one, feeling depressed or anxious, interested in improving your life balance and wellness, or simply wanting a closer relationship with God. If so, I invite you to call me for a consultation. We can identify new patterns, coping skills and strategies so you can feel you are thriving in life with success and joy.
![Photo of Allison Robbins, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/970c97c2-a621-45c8-bdea-544ecec4458c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 20 years of experience working with loss/grief, trauma, relationship issues, adjustment issues, divorce, death/suicide, addictions ADHD/ADD, ODD/ conduct disorders, anxiety, depression, and those involved in the court systems.
Are you going through a major change? Do you remember being happy, but it was long ago? Does the anxiety you feel make you avoid doing the things that you used to enjoy? Change is difficult. Loss can be unbearable. These and so many other life challenges are the reasons why people come to therapy. Let's work together. I will help you unpack the load you are carrying through the use of different therapeutic techniques. Allow yourself to accept the help you deserve.
I have over 20 years of experience working with loss/grief, trauma, relationship issues, adjustment issues, divorce, death/suicide, addictions ADHD/ADD, ODD/ conduct disorders, anxiety, depression, and those involved in the court systems.
Are you going through a major change? Do you remember being happy, but it was long ago? Does the anxiety you feel make you avoid doing the things that you used to enjoy? Change is difficult. Loss can be unbearable. These and so many other life challenges are the reasons why people come to therapy. Let's work together. I will help you unpack the load you are carrying through the use of different therapeutic techniques. Allow yourself to accept the help you deserve.
![Photo of Laura L Housel, LMHC, ATR, CSAT, CTRS, CYI, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51cf20b7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laura L Housel
Counselor, LMHC, ATR, CSAT, CTRS, CYI
Verified Verified
North Liberty, IA 52317 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling lost, alone, and misunderstood? Life and relationships aren't turning out quite like you thought? Maybe you never quite fit in or were able figure things out like others. You might be going through changes such as: shift in your work or career due to burnout or distress; transitioning from a religion; late diagnosis related to neurodivergence (autism, ADHD, etc.); exploring identity; realizing your coping strategies have become addictive or harmful; re-examining relationships, intimacy, roles, experiencing conflict or time of reckoning; feeling disconnected from self, others, spirituality; or experiencing grief or loss
Feeling lost, alone, and misunderstood? Life and relationships aren't turning out quite like you thought? Maybe you never quite fit in or were able figure things out like others. You might be going through changes such as: shift in your work or career due to burnout or distress; transitioning from a religion; late diagnosis related to neurodivergence (autism, ADHD, etc.); exploring identity; realizing your coping strategies have become addictive or harmful; re-examining relationships, intimacy, roles, experiencing conflict or time of reckoning; feeling disconnected from self, others, spirituality; or experiencing grief or loss
![Photo of Phillip L Davis - R & R Counseling Solutions, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9eaef272-1b47-47c7-b337-8aa39bbda386/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients who are struggling with complicated grief, anger, stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, sexual abuse, relationship concerns and substance abuse. Counseling works great for people who are willing to do things different so they can have a more positive outcome. Mental health is not something to be ashamed of and does not have to be a life sentence. Most people struggle at some point in their life and could use some support. There are other counselors in the practice that can also provide help. Visit us at www.rrcsmentalhealth.com We look forward to helping you with your journey.
I work with clients who are struggling with complicated grief, anger, stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, sexual abuse, relationship concerns and substance abuse. Counseling works great for people who are willing to do things different so they can have a more positive outcome. Mental health is not something to be ashamed of and does not have to be a life sentence. Most people struggle at some point in their life and could use some support. There are other counselors in the practice that can also provide help. Visit us at www.rrcsmentalhealth.com We look forward to helping you with your journey.
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![Photo of Sejal Patel, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c55c1a6-7734-4477-af6c-44ccffab46f7/4/320x400.png)
My areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, grief and loss, trauma, and identity issues.
I believe that you have the inner wisdom to navigate your healing journey. For years, I have worked with individuals, couples, and families to address mental health concerns, resolve interpersonal issues, and find their way to healthier and more fulfilling lives. I utilize a holistic approach to individual treatment that supports the physical, mental, and spiritual components of well-being. This includes strength-based therapy and mind-body modalities such as EMDR, yoga, mindfulness, and reiki. My work with families is rooted in a systemic framework that incorporates attachment-based and emotionally-focused therapies.
My areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, grief and loss, trauma, and identity issues.
I believe that you have the inner wisdom to navigate your healing journey. For years, I have worked with individuals, couples, and families to address mental health concerns, resolve interpersonal issues, and find their way to healthier and more fulfilling lives. I utilize a holistic approach to individual treatment that supports the physical, mental, and spiritual components of well-being. This includes strength-based therapy and mind-body modalities such as EMDR, yoga, mindfulness, and reiki. My work with families is rooted in a systemic framework that incorporates attachment-based and emotionally-focused therapies.
![Photo of Erin Knauer, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2de9804c-0279-43c5-aaf3-e36ba67e5ae4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, relationships difficulties, chronic illness, pain and end of life issues.
Going to therapy is a challenging decision. I get it, vulnerability sucks. However, if you’ve come to the point in your life where you feel like you’re spinning your wheels and can’t quite get on the right track then therapy could be what you need. As a therapist, I am direct yet supportive and empathetic. I strive to take a collaborative and compassionate approach with my clients.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, relationships difficulties, chronic illness, pain and end of life issues.
Going to therapy is a challenging decision. I get it, vulnerability sucks. However, if you’ve come to the point in your life where you feel like you’re spinning your wheels and can’t quite get on the right track then therapy could be what you need. As a therapist, I am direct yet supportive and empathetic. I strive to take a collaborative and compassionate approach with my clients.
![Photo of Erin Suchy-Johnson, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d427d99-1550-4dd4-95e4-563d1247825b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Suchy-Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Clinical interests include pregnancy/postpartum mental health, anxiety, depression and grief/loss.
Feeling "blah," hopeless, down? Nervous, on-edge, stuck in the past or constantly worried about the future? Find yourself angry/agitated all the time? Do you have physical symptoms like appetite changes, sleep difficulties, fatigue, restlessness, and trouble concentrating? Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy, struggling with everyday tasks, feeling "checked out" and thinking thoughts like "what's the point?," "will X ever get better" can be a sign we could benefit from outside help.
Clinical interests include pregnancy/postpartum mental health, anxiety, depression and grief/loss.
Feeling "blah," hopeless, down? Nervous, on-edge, stuck in the past or constantly worried about the future? Find yourself angry/agitated all the time? Do you have physical symptoms like appetite changes, sleep difficulties, fatigue, restlessness, and trouble concentrating? Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy, struggling with everyday tasks, feeling "checked out" and thinking thoughts like "what's the point?," "will X ever get better" can be a sign we could benefit from outside help.
![Photo of Brie Carl, LISW, CGP, ASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59ebb936-28a4-43fc-b371-47340c36fd92/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brie Carl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, CGP, ASDCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50316
I have taken additional trainings in the area of grief and loss and working with those individuals on the autism spectrum.
Life can be overwhelming and, at times, take unexpected turns. In those moments, it is refreshing to know that we have someone to turn to who can support us as we navigate those challenges. After all, just like children, emotions heal when they are heard and validated.
I have taken additional trainings in the area of grief and loss and working with those individuals on the autism spectrum.
Life can be overwhelming and, at times, take unexpected turns. In those moments, it is refreshing to know that we have someone to turn to who can support us as we navigate those challenges. After all, just like children, emotions heal when they are heard and validated.
![Photo of Melissa Cribari, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e7de903-949a-4cd0-bcd0-dc1bdf939e11/1/320x400.jpeg)
Through my years of experience as a clinician I have collaborated with clients grappling with an array of mental health challenges, encompassing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, cancer, chronic illness, postpartum depression/anxiety, and relationship conflicts.
I have a passion for helping individuals improve their emotional well-being and enhance their overall quality of life. I believe in creating a non-judgmental and supportive space for my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I strive to foster a strong therapeutic alliance by building trust, empathy, and mutual respect with each individual I work with.
Through my years of experience as a clinician I have collaborated with clients grappling with an array of mental health challenges, encompassing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, cancer, chronic illness, postpartum depression/anxiety, and relationship conflicts.
I have a passion for helping individuals improve their emotional well-being and enhance their overall quality of life. I believe in creating a non-judgmental and supportive space for my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I strive to foster a strong therapeutic alliance by building trust, empathy, and mutual respect with each individual I work with.
![Photo of Michele Armstrong, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3a5cad8-a309-473e-96b4-e3efe9f8c2f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Armstrong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52245
I am a licensed clinical social worker with many years of experience working with a diverse background of clients. I have a warm and positive approach that focuses on you. I strive to create a safe space by building a trusting relationship where we can work as a team. I am passionate about providing holistic care that is personalized to each individual’s unique needs. I have experiencing working with neurodiversity, grief and loss, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, the LBGTQ community, and trauma. I use an approach that examines factors of injustice and oppression on feelings of self-worth and personal development.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with many years of experience working with a diverse background of clients. I have a warm and positive approach that focuses on you. I strive to create a safe space by building a trusting relationship where we can work as a team. I am passionate about providing holistic care that is personalized to each individual’s unique needs. I have experiencing working with neurodiversity, grief and loss, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, the LBGTQ community, and trauma. I use an approach that examines factors of injustice and oppression on feelings of self-worth and personal development.
![Photo of Kristin Rodenberg, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f249efb-f695-4b88-ad58-5c52b30d9a3e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Rodenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
Grief. We all have it, and no one wants to talk about it. Fortunately, you have found my page and I want to talk about it. From child loss to infertility, from boundaries to someone's death; grief and loss are abundant. Through extensive trainings and a willingness to sit and listen to the hard things I am happy to walk this lonely journey with you. Maybe then it won't be so lonely.
Grief. We all have it, and no one wants to talk about it. Fortunately, you have found my page and I want to talk about it. From child loss to infertility, from boundaries to someone's death; grief and loss are abundant. Through extensive trainings and a willingness to sit and listen to the hard things I am happy to walk this lonely journey with you. Maybe then it won't be so lonely.
![Photo of Melissa Paulsen, MA, LMFT, RPT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6793654-08b3-4d18-90de-1839258c1e3c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Paulsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Anamosa, IA 52205
No matter why you are seeking therapy, my goal is to make you feel comfortable while helping you to explore whatever life stressor you are currently experiencing in a safe and accepting environment. I have helped individuals, couples, and families to develop open communication, conflict resolution, emotional regulation, and overall improvement in each client's emotional wellbeing and life satisfaction. I also have experience working on issues such as depression and mood disorders, anxiety, grief and loss, oppositional defiant disorder, self-harm, and other adjustment-related stressors.
No matter why you are seeking therapy, my goal is to make you feel comfortable while helping you to explore whatever life stressor you are currently experiencing in a safe and accepting environment. I have helped individuals, couples, and families to develop open communication, conflict resolution, emotional regulation, and overall improvement in each client's emotional wellbeing and life satisfaction. I also have experience working on issues such as depression and mood disorders, anxiety, grief and loss, oppositional defiant disorder, self-harm, and other adjustment-related stressors.
![Photo of Emili Lair, LMHC, MA, MEd , Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c697238e-8c76-415b-b857-14311198943c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emili Lair
Counselor, LMHC, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Estherville, IA 51334 (Online Only)
Emili has experience treating individuals struggling with anxiety disorders, all severities of depression, employment issues, chronic health issues, relationship distress, as well post-traumatic stress disorder. She is most passionate about helping individuals struggling to cope with the complexities of grief and loss of all forms, including those struggling to understand the most unimaginable tragedies in life. Emili has an interest providing couple’s counseling to partners wanting to improve communication, addressing ongoing conflict and/or betrayal in relationships, and experiencing new stages.
Emili has experience treating individuals struggling with anxiety disorders, all severities of depression, employment issues, chronic health issues, relationship distress, as well post-traumatic stress disorder. She is most passionate about helping individuals struggling to cope with the complexities of grief and loss of all forms, including those struggling to understand the most unimaginable tragedies in life. Emili has an interest providing couple’s counseling to partners wanting to improve communication, addressing ongoing conflict and/or betrayal in relationships, and experiencing new stages.
See more therapy options for Iowa
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.