Grief Therapists in Oregon City, OR

Photo of Heather Blasi, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Blasi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with those who’ve experienced trauma, grief/ loss, depression and anxiety.
Does it feel like you can’t do it all anymore? That you’ve tried really hard, but are burnt out. Or maybe you’ve reached your max in your ability to make things better, keep it all together, or to make things feel less chaotic. Going through the motions of our daily life can feel overwhelming, even without the impacts of grief, loss or trauma. And if this is your first time reaching out to a counselor it can feel scary, uncomfortable, exciting or maybe all of the above. So it's so important to me that you feel welcomed when you reach out for the first time. My initial goal is to get to know you and create a welcoming space for you.
I work with those who’ve experienced trauma, grief/ loss, depression and anxiety.
Does it feel like you can’t do it all anymore? That you’ve tried really hard, but are burnt out. Or maybe you’ve reached your max in your ability to make things better, keep it all together, or to make things feel less chaotic. Going through the motions of our daily life can feel overwhelming, even without the impacts of grief, loss or trauma. And if this is your first time reaching out to a counselor it can feel scary, uncomfortable, exciting or maybe all of the above. So it's so important to me that you feel welcomed when you reach out for the first time. My initial goal is to get to know you and create a welcoming space for you.
(971) 247-1264 View (971) 247-1264
Photo of Paige Cameron - Come As You Are Counseling LLC, LPC, MA, #C6978, Licensed Professional Counselor
Come As You Are Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, #C6978
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oregon City, OR 97045
Waitlist for new clients
I work with single and complex trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief, using the therapeutic relationship and research based therapeutic modalities to help you reach your goals.
Inquire for openings! EMDR Certified Therapist. Do you find yourself feeling anxious, depressed, or frozen? Are these symptoms affecting your ability to function in daily life tasks? If this sounds familiar, know that you're not alone, and real practical help is available. I am passionate about helping people understand their mental health, how their nervous system works, and in finding helpful research based coping strategies. While helping you heal and grow, I will lend a sharp, empathetic, trained ear, shedding light on your strengths as we find the way forward in progress and desired change. I look forward to hearing from you!
I work with single and complex trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief, using the therapeutic relationship and research based therapeutic modalities to help you reach your goals.
Inquire for openings! EMDR Certified Therapist. Do you find yourself feeling anxious, depressed, or frozen? Are these symptoms affecting your ability to function in daily life tasks? If this sounds familiar, know that you're not alone, and real practical help is available. I am passionate about helping people understand their mental health, how their nervous system works, and in finding helpful research based coping strategies. While helping you heal and grow, I will lend a sharp, empathetic, trained ear, shedding light on your strengths as we find the way forward in progress and desired change. I look forward to hearing from you!
(503) 714-7284 View (503) 714-7284
Photo of Jessica N Thomas, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica N Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045  (Online Only)
GRIEF & LOSS: Dr.
Engaging the heart and mind through a reflective therapeutic process to increase awareness, creativity, and wisdom. A PhD in Psychology and a MS in Marriage and Family Therapy, Dr. Thomas's education and training has provided her with a multidimensional perspective- she understands the web of connection and emotional dynamics that unfold in families, couples, and larger systems. Dr. Thomas's philosophical beliefs stem from the understanding that we are connected, and it is through this awareness that we can heal and create meaning from our life experiences.
GRIEF & LOSS: Dr.
Engaging the heart and mind through a reflective therapeutic process to increase awareness, creativity, and wisdom. A PhD in Psychology and a MS in Marriage and Family Therapy, Dr. Thomas's education and training has provided her with a multidimensional perspective- she understands the web of connection and emotional dynamics that unfold in families, couples, and larger systems. Dr. Thomas's philosophical beliefs stem from the understanding that we are connected, and it is through this awareness that we can heal and create meaning from our life experiences.
(503) 564-0251 View (503) 564-0251
Photo of Ingrid Knudson, MA
Ingrid Knudson
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045
Hope is tangible. “Existe la esperanza.” Life experiences, hurts, burdens, and endless chaos can leave one devastated, isolated, and feeling alone. There is more than emptiness. There is tangible and real-life hope. Ingrid has worked with people for over fifteen years in the role of educator, mentor, and professional counselor. She has spent much time also working with crisis and trauma victims, those working through times of deep grieving and loss, individuals sorting through and understanding their identity, self- worth, and those managing every day with anxiety and depression.
Hope is tangible. “Existe la esperanza.” Life experiences, hurts, burdens, and endless chaos can leave one devastated, isolated, and feeling alone. There is more than emptiness. There is tangible and real-life hope. Ingrid has worked with people for over fifteen years in the role of educator, mentor, and professional counselor. She has spent much time also working with crisis and trauma victims, those working through times of deep grieving and loss, individuals sorting through and understanding their identity, self- worth, and those managing every day with anxiety and depression.
(971) 251-2651 View (971) 251-2651
Photo of Elizabeth D Smith, PhD, MSW, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth D Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045  (Online Only)
My specialties are: spirituality, chronic pain, suffering, cancer treatment, death and dying.
Most of my clients come to me in the midst of some sort of transition--a difficult relationship, a new job, divorce, retirement, a move, etc.--that they are unable to navigate alone. I also see many persons confronting cancer, chronic pain or a crisis of faith. When we first meet, we will explore what brings you into therapy at this time. We will create a plan together to achieve the outcome you would like best. Many times, I find that transitions involve a certain amount of loss and grief that has not yet been acknowledged. Our goal would be to fit this transition, or life condition, large or small, into your overall life journey.
My specialties are: spirituality, chronic pain, suffering, cancer treatment, death and dying.
Most of my clients come to me in the midst of some sort of transition--a difficult relationship, a new job, divorce, retirement, a move, etc.--that they are unable to navigate alone. I also see many persons confronting cancer, chronic pain or a crisis of faith. When we first meet, we will explore what brings you into therapy at this time. We will create a plan together to achieve the outcome you would like best. Many times, I find that transitions involve a certain amount of loss and grief that has not yet been acknowledged. Our goal would be to fit this transition, or life condition, large or small, into your overall life journey.
(971) 303-8464 View (971) 303-8464
Photo of Joelle Osterhaus, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joelle Osterhaus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045  (Online Only)
Change is the constant: yet knowing that doesn't make moving through life easy. Our lives are full of transitions within and around us. And that can be hard. Really hard. You're searching these pages because you are ready to lean in: you want to understand what is happening in your life, why, and how to make things better. I am so glad you are here doing this for you. Things can get better. Whether you are experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, trouble navigating relationships, work, or other life decisions, losses or challenges, counseling can be an incredible and transformative partnership. Let's explore how I can help.
Change is the constant: yet knowing that doesn't make moving through life easy. Our lives are full of transitions within and around us. And that can be hard. Really hard. You're searching these pages because you are ready to lean in: you want to understand what is happening in your life, why, and how to make things better. I am so glad you are here doing this for you. Things can get better. Whether you are experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, trouble navigating relationships, work, or other life decisions, losses or challenges, counseling can be an incredible and transformative partnership. Let's explore how I can help.
View
Photo of Alex Emmert, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alex Emmert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045
Are you tired of letting pain from your past or fear in the present hold you back? Maybe you were in a good stride, but something happened and now you feel caught in a loop with no clear exit in sight. Enough is enough, you’re ready to set yourself free and to be the person you’ve always known you can be deep down. I help guide people through action-based steps to recover from grief, get out of ruts, and live happy lives. I’ll work with you to see where anxiety, depression, or negative beliefs are getting in the way and help you practice skills for the real world.
Are you tired of letting pain from your past or fear in the present hold you back? Maybe you were in a good stride, but something happened and now you feel caught in a loop with no clear exit in sight. Enough is enough, you’re ready to set yourself free and to be the person you’ve always known you can be deep down. I help guide people through action-based steps to recover from grief, get out of ruts, and live happy lives. I’ll work with you to see where anxiety, depression, or negative beliefs are getting in the way and help you practice skills for the real world.
View
Photo of Melissa Romeo
Melissa Romeo
Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045
I believe that we all have the potential to live abundant and meaningful lives but that obstacles such as trauma, loss, cycles of addiction, and larger systems of oppression can often impede our paths.
Hi, my name is Melissa and I'm so glad you're here. I've done a lot of the work I'm asking my clients to do and want to acknowledge just how vulnerable it can be to start prioritizing your mental health. We humans are so resilient and can thrive when we have the right support and coping skills to navigate all of life’s challenges. Let’s work together to uncover your innate strength and meet your goals so that you feel empowered to embody new skills and practices in your everyday life.
I believe that we all have the potential to live abundant and meaningful lives but that obstacles such as trauma, loss, cycles of addiction, and larger systems of oppression can often impede our paths.
Hi, my name is Melissa and I'm so glad you're here. I've done a lot of the work I'm asking my clients to do and want to acknowledge just how vulnerable it can be to start prioritizing your mental health. We humans are so resilient and can thrive when we have the right support and coping skills to navigate all of life’s challenges. Let’s work together to uncover your innate strength and meet your goals so that you feel empowered to embody new skills and practices in your everyday life.
(971) 414-3321 View (971) 414-3321
Photo of Teresa Hunt, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teresa Hunt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045
Teresa believes the counseling relationship to be a safe and trusting one that can bring the client change, hope and healing. She wants her clients to feel empowered to handle the issues they are facing. Her main area of focus is grief, depression and anxiety. In her spare time, Teresa enjoys photography, hiking, travel and adventure.
Teresa believes the counseling relationship to be a safe and trusting one that can bring the client change, hope and healing. She wants her clients to feel empowered to handle the issues they are facing. Her main area of focus is grief, depression and anxiety. In her spare time, Teresa enjoys photography, hiking, travel and adventure.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Marina Badcock, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marina Badcock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045
I have worked with clients with a variety of presenting problems including depression, anxiety, trauma, family / relationship issues, grief and loss, parenting issues, and stress management.
I have training in CognitiveBehavioral and DialecticalBehavioral Therapy. I usually take a solutionfocused and clientcentered approach and believe that every person has the ability to take control of their life and make the changes necessary to meet their personal goals. My role in the therapeutic process is to help clients learn the skills they need to meet those goals. I speak fluent Russian. I particularly enjoy working with adolescents and young adults.
I have worked with clients with a variety of presenting problems including depression, anxiety, trauma, family / relationship issues, grief and loss, parenting issues, and stress management.
I have training in CognitiveBehavioral and DialecticalBehavioral Therapy. I usually take a solutionfocused and clientcentered approach and believe that every person has the ability to take control of their life and make the changes necessary to meet their personal goals. My role in the therapeutic process is to help clients learn the skills they need to meet those goals. I speak fluent Russian. I particularly enjoy working with adolescents and young adults.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Brittany Potter, CSWA
Brittany Potter
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Brittany and I am accepting new clients in Oregon! Taking the first step towards therapy can be a very important and sometimes challenging endeavor. I believe that we all maintain the power and resources within to guide us toward healing. My goal as a therapist is to assist you in your journey of living a more fulfilling life, however that looks for you. I work with teens and adults 14 years and older. My areas of focus include trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues.
Hi, my name is Brittany and I am accepting new clients in Oregon! Taking the first step towards therapy can be a very important and sometimes challenging endeavor. I believe that we all maintain the power and resources within to guide us toward healing. My goal as a therapist is to assist you in your journey of living a more fulfilling life, however that looks for you. I work with teens and adults 14 years and older. My areas of focus include trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues.
(503) 461-0722 View (503) 461-0722
Photo of Jules Duncan-Martinez, PCA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jules Duncan-Martinez
Pre-Licensed Professional, PCA
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045
I work with a trauma informed lens, treating adults presenting with issues related to depression, self-harm, anxiety, PTSD, grief and loss, history of abuse, generational trauma, sexual assault, gender dysphoria, and sexuality.
Hello my name is Jules (she/her). I am currently accepting new clients in Oregon. It is important to understand systemic oppression as it affects marginalized communities, including BIPOC and LGBTQIA plus, as cultural events and generational trauma affect our mental wellbeing. Another perspective relevant to my practice is the inclusion of feminism and a sex positive belief system. A component in my practice is eliminating stigma behind mental health issues and creating a dialogue that further removes us from the concept of “normal.”
I work with a trauma informed lens, treating adults presenting with issues related to depression, self-harm, anxiety, PTSD, grief and loss, history of abuse, generational trauma, sexual assault, gender dysphoria, and sexuality.
Hello my name is Jules (she/her). I am currently accepting new clients in Oregon. It is important to understand systemic oppression as it affects marginalized communities, including BIPOC and LGBTQIA plus, as cultural events and generational trauma affect our mental wellbeing. Another perspective relevant to my practice is the inclusion of feminism and a sex positive belief system. A component in my practice is eliminating stigma behind mental health issues and creating a dialogue that further removes us from the concept of “normal.”
(503) 809-5582 View (503) 809-5582
Photo of Stacie Elkins, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacie Elkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045  (Online Only)
I work with adults and couples ages 18+ who are seeking support related to trauma, grief and loss, self-esteem issues, racial identity, communication, depression, and relationship difficulties.
Do you find yourself stuck, anxious, and unable to navigate life? Recognizing this is one of the first step towards healing. My main goal is to provide an affirming, safe space for marginalized communities to express themselves and feel heard. Thoughts, emotions, perceptions and environmental factors can interfere with our ability to reach our full potential. I view our work together as a shared journey toward your ideal self. You are the architect of what is possible in therapy. Together, we can create a path towards a journey of greater fulfillment and possibilities. Change can be scary, but you're already taking the first step.
I work with adults and couples ages 18+ who are seeking support related to trauma, grief and loss, self-esteem issues, racial identity, communication, depression, and relationship difficulties.
Do you find yourself stuck, anxious, and unable to navigate life? Recognizing this is one of the first step towards healing. My main goal is to provide an affirming, safe space for marginalized communities to express themselves and feel heard. Thoughts, emotions, perceptions and environmental factors can interfere with our ability to reach our full potential. I view our work together as a shared journey toward your ideal self. You are the architect of what is possible in therapy. Together, we can create a path towards a journey of greater fulfillment and possibilities. Change can be scary, but you're already taking the first step.
(503) 308-7783 View (503) 308-7783
Photo of Tamara Corley, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamara Corley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Is it time? Is enough, enough? Are you ready for change in your life? Then let’s do it! Let’s take the first step together to begin healing, find closure and let go of the baggage that weighs you down and no longer serves you, today. Take a leap of faith for yourself and we will take the journey together. My areas of specialty include Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Relationship Issues, PTSD and Grief and Loss. I am inclusive, serve the LGBTQIA+ community and have experience working with Neurodivergent folx.
Is it time? Is enough, enough? Are you ready for change in your life? Then let’s do it! Let’s take the first step together to begin healing, find closure and let go of the baggage that weighs you down and no longer serves you, today. Take a leap of faith for yourself and we will take the journey together. My areas of specialty include Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Relationship Issues, PTSD and Grief and Loss. I am inclusive, serve the LGBTQIA+ community and have experience working with Neurodivergent folx.
(503) 966-5069 View (503) 966-5069
Photo of Valentina Muggia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valentina Muggia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045
Currently NOT accepting new clients. Life transitions, Grief and Loss, relationships and trauma have a direct impact on our quality of life. I believe that sooner or later we all experience crisis and we do not have to overcome them on our own. In my approach to therapy I will not provide you with all the answers, rather I will guide you in your own discovery of how you can become aware of what changes you need to make in your life in order to create the life you want, and overcome obstacles that are standing in your way.
Currently NOT accepting new clients. Life transitions, Grief and Loss, relationships and trauma have a direct impact on our quality of life. I believe that sooner or later we all experience crisis and we do not have to overcome them on our own. In my approach to therapy I will not provide you with all the answers, rather I will guide you in your own discovery of how you can become aware of what changes you need to make in your life in order to create the life you want, and overcome obstacles that are standing in your way.
(971) 351-4489 View (971) 351-4489
Photo of Karen Harris, MC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oregon City, OR 97045
Searching for a therapist can feel overwhelming, glad you are taking the time to find the support you need. I am accepting new clients. Deeply emotional? Sensory overload? Burnout? Body pains/illness not medically explained? Maybe you are experiencing midlife changes? I practice a mixture of somatic therapy and parts work which helps you integrate your body and emotions in a way that is not overwhelming and that promotes having a positive relationship with yourself. I work with clients that have experienced trauma, clients struggling with anxiety, depression, deep feeling of not belonging, and grief.
Searching for a therapist can feel overwhelming, glad you are taking the time to find the support you need. I am accepting new clients. Deeply emotional? Sensory overload? Burnout? Body pains/illness not medically explained? Maybe you are experiencing midlife changes? I practice a mixture of somatic therapy and parts work which helps you integrate your body and emotions in a way that is not overwhelming and that promotes having a positive relationship with yourself. I work with clients that have experienced trauma, clients struggling with anxiety, depression, deep feeling of not belonging, and grief.
(971) 270-1549 View (971) 270-1549
Photo of Tessa Henry, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tessa Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with teens and emerging adults who are experiencing life transitions, grief and loss, relationships issues, neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, and/or disabilities.
Hello, my name is Tessa and I am currently accepting new client's in Oregon! I believe that my role as a therapist is to support and validate the life events that you share with me. My hope is that therapy sessions are a collaborative effort where client and therapist work together to establish realistic steps toward change. I am here to help with the ups and downs of your personal journey. My therapies of choice are person-centered practices, art therapy, solution-focused, and family systems theory, with elements of both cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies.
I specialize in working with teens and emerging adults who are experiencing life transitions, grief and loss, relationships issues, neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, and/or disabilities.
Hello, my name is Tessa and I am currently accepting new client's in Oregon! I believe that my role as a therapist is to support and validate the life events that you share with me. My hope is that therapy sessions are a collaborative effort where client and therapist work together to establish realistic steps toward change. I am here to help with the ups and downs of your personal journey. My therapies of choice are person-centered practices, art therapy, solution-focused, and family systems theory, with elements of both cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies.
(971) 306-8109 View (971) 306-8109
Photo of Ben Cobb, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ben Cobb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045
If you are struggling with closing the gap between where you are currently and where you want to be in the future, I would be privileged to support you in making this happen. These challenges and patterns often block us from realizing our potential and may lead to isolation, hopelessness, and a loss of purpose in our lives. In working through these barriers we are able to uncover the true gifts which give life meaning and purpose.
If you are struggling with closing the gap between where you are currently and where you want to be in the future, I would be privileged to support you in making this happen. These challenges and patterns often block us from realizing our potential and may lead to isolation, hopelessness, and a loss of purpose in our lives. In working through these barriers we are able to uncover the true gifts which give life meaning and purpose.
(971) 803-5381 View (971) 803-5381
Photo of Gwen Welch-Slaff - The Healing Haven, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Healing Haven
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045
Our approach to therapy is tailored toward each unique person, family or couple. We see people with difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, recovery from trauma, parenting issues, grief and loss issues, eating disorders and weight issues, chronic pain, career decisions and addictions. Our approach is a combination of traditional techniques and heart centered deep healing. Our approach geared toward finding the source of overwhelming feelings and making connections with current difficulties. Within this process we encourage healthy release of feelings which leads to healthier relationships and positive self esteem.
Our approach to therapy is tailored toward each unique person, family or couple. We see people with difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, recovery from trauma, parenting issues, grief and loss issues, eating disorders and weight issues, chronic pain, career decisions and addictions. Our approach is a combination of traditional techniques and heart centered deep healing. Our approach geared toward finding the source of overwhelming feelings and making connections with current difficulties. Within this process we encourage healthy release of feelings which leads to healthier relationships and positive self esteem.
(971) 253-7923 View (971) 253-7923
Photo of Matt Field, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Matt Field
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oregon City, OR 97045
I work with people grieving death and loss.
Imagine taking a moment to connect your feelings and thoughts. You sit down and take a moment to feel sensations in your body, your mood, and then work through the story you connect to it all. Often when seeking therapy we start by wanting to find solutions to get rid of unwanted thoughts, feelings, and behaviors - and this is good! Taking time to have caring and attentive guidance through this process is the role I take. As you share what you are going through either as an individual, partners, or family, I see that it is my job to come alongside to first listen and then guide the path to a different and preferred life.
I work with people grieving death and loss.
Imagine taking a moment to connect your feelings and thoughts. You sit down and take a moment to feel sensations in your body, your mood, and then work through the story you connect to it all. Often when seeking therapy we start by wanting to find solutions to get rid of unwanted thoughts, feelings, and behaviors - and this is good! Taking time to have caring and attentive guidance through this process is the role I take. As you share what you are going through either as an individual, partners, or family, I see that it is my job to come alongside to first listen and then guide the path to a different and preferred life.
(503) 928-6328 View (503) 928-6328

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.