Grief Therapists in East Greenwich, RI

Photo of Judith Hart, LMHC, CAGS, Counselor
Judith Hart
Counselor, LMHC, CAGS
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Hello, my name is Judy Hart. I have been a licensed mental health therapist since 2008. I believe that each person has the strength within themselves to grow and change through life's challenges and losses. I specialize in grief therapy, anxiety, mood disorders, and life transitions. My therapeutic focus is on individual therapy with adolescents 16-18, emerging adults 18-26, adults, and adults in later years. I accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Neighborhood Healthcare, Cigna, and United/Optum Healthcare.
Hello, my name is Judy Hart. I have been a licensed mental health therapist since 2008. I believe that each person has the strength within themselves to grow and change through life's challenges and losses. I specialize in grief therapy, anxiety, mood disorders, and life transitions. My therapeutic focus is on individual therapy with adolescents 16-18, emerging adults 18-26, adults, and adults in later years. I accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Neighborhood Healthcare, Cigna, and United/Optum Healthcare.
(401) 566-8953 View (401) 566-8953
Photo of James C Simon, LICSW, CAGS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James C Simon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CAGS
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience in an outpatient setting with a recent focus on supporting individuals experiencing grief and loss.
I work collaboratively with my clients in identifying goals for treatment with attainable outcome measures. I am able to provide several treatment modalities that best fit the individual's needs. I understand that this can be a difficult decision and that there may have been many challenges along the way before making this initial contact. For these reasons I strive to provide everyone with a highly professional, confidential, and supportive experience as we explore possible treatment options together.
I have over 20 years of experience in an outpatient setting with a recent focus on supporting individuals experiencing grief and loss.
I work collaboratively with my clients in identifying goals for treatment with attainable outcome measures. I am able to provide several treatment modalities that best fit the individual's needs. I understand that this can be a difficult decision and that there may have been many challenges along the way before making this initial contact. For these reasons I strive to provide everyone with a highly professional, confidential, and supportive experience as we explore possible treatment options together.
(401) 371-0093 View (401) 371-0093
Peter G Erickson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Relationships and life transitions often involve loss, grief, and sadness. Emotional pain, moreover, often makes everyday life seem unbearable and exhausting. Outpatient counseling and psychotherapy - both marital and individual - can facilitate the relief of the sadness, confusion, and anxiety that are part of working through personal and relational stressors. The approaches and models in which I have been trained and educated - interpersonal, cognitive behavioral, and psychodynamic therapies - are also informed by and infused with with the essential, humane and core qualities of empathy, understanding, warmth, and genuineness.
Relationships and life transitions often involve loss, grief, and sadness. Emotional pain, moreover, often makes everyday life seem unbearable and exhausting. Outpatient counseling and psychotherapy - both marital and individual - can facilitate the relief of the sadness, confusion, and anxiety that are part of working through personal and relational stressors. The approaches and models in which I have been trained and educated - interpersonal, cognitive behavioral, and psychodynamic therapies - are also informed by and infused with with the essential, humane and core qualities of empathy, understanding, warmth, and genuineness.
(401) 244-8539 View (401) 244-8539
Photo of Elise Hall - Attunement Counseling & Wellness Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Attunement Counseling & Wellness Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Greenwich, RI 02818  (Online Only)
Life rarely goes as planned. When you've been hit with a major life event, such as the loss of a loved one, an affair, or the birth of a child, you may experience fear, isolation, sadness, or anger. Although life changes can be a source of excitement and growth, they often bring up unresolved issues, including perfectionism, shame, and past trauma. If you want to be able to cope effectively with life's biggest transitions, you need a compassionate therapist who specializes in your area of need, so that you can find peace and joy in your life again.
Life rarely goes as planned. When you've been hit with a major life event, such as the loss of a loved one, an affair, or the birth of a child, you may experience fear, isolation, sadness, or anger. Although life changes can be a source of excitement and growth, they often bring up unresolved issues, including perfectionism, shame, and past trauma. If you want to be able to cope effectively with life's biggest transitions, you need a compassionate therapist who specializes in your area of need, so that you can find peace and joy in your life again.
(401) 208-0314 View (401) 208-0314
Photo of Emilie Davis - Rhode Island Family Center, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rhode Island Family Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Through integrative play therapy, I specialize in helping children work through trauma and loss.
Thank you for getting to know my counseling practice at The Family Institute of RI. I have worked for over thirty years with individuals suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, Anxiety, Depression and other mental health issues. I have spent much of my practice working with children ages 3-12, teens, and adults. I have extensive knowledge and experience helping individuals and families involved in the family court system. And I am committed to helping individuals overcome obstacles that interfere with positive change and growth. I also work with individuals and couples struggling with relationship issues,as well as domestic abuse and anger management.
Through integrative play therapy, I specialize in helping children work through trauma and loss.
Thank you for getting to know my counseling practice at The Family Institute of RI. I have worked for over thirty years with individuals suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, Anxiety, Depression and other mental health issues. I have spent much of my practice working with children ages 3-12, teens, and adults. I have extensive knowledge and experience helping individuals and families involved in the family court system. And I am committed to helping individuals overcome obstacles that interfere with positive change and growth. I also work with individuals and couples struggling with relationship issues,as well as domestic abuse and anger management.
(401) 519-4295 View (401) 519-4295
Photo of Melanie Clifford, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Clifford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Greenwich, RI 02818
A "Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker" who specializes in working with adults, adolescents, and couples. I have over 15 years experience working in community mental health and substance abuse agencies. I have been in private practice for over 10 years. My specialties include depression, anxiety/panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, social skills, trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, self-esteem, conflict resolution and stress management.
A "Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker" who specializes in working with adults, adolescents, and couples. I have over 15 years experience working in community mental health and substance abuse agencies. I have been in private practice for over 10 years. My specialties include depression, anxiety/panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, social skills, trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, self-esteem, conflict resolution and stress management.
(401) 293-2271 View (401) 293-2271
Photo of Devin Vietri, MA, LMHC, RDT, Counselor
Devin Vietri
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RDT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Greenwich, RI 02818
I specialize in people living with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, those searching for fluidity with life transitions, to develop more intuitive coping skills, or someone seeking space to empower and define themselves.
Deciding it is time to seek a therapist is a courageous act of self- love. Maybe you are feeling stuck or overwhelmed with life’s transitions. Maybe you want to understand past trauma or the impact of your attachment style on your current relationships. Whatever brings you here, together we will identify your goals, needs and strengths to help you deepen your self-understanding and heal. As a Drama Therapist, clients have the option to engage in a creative approach to therapy. The creative process, story telling, artwork, and discussion allow space to explore emotions, behaviors and sense of self.
I specialize in people living with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, those searching for fluidity with life transitions, to develop more intuitive coping skills, or someone seeking space to empower and define themselves.
Deciding it is time to seek a therapist is a courageous act of self- love. Maybe you are feeling stuck or overwhelmed with life’s transitions. Maybe you want to understand past trauma or the impact of your attachment style on your current relationships. Whatever brings you here, together we will identify your goals, needs and strengths to help you deepen your self-understanding and heal. As a Drama Therapist, clients have the option to engage in a creative approach to therapy. The creative process, story telling, artwork, and discussion allow space to explore emotions, behaviors and sense of self.
(401) 756-1602 View (401) 756-1602
Photo of Lisa Davis, M Ed, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Lisa Davis
Counselor, M Ed, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
I offer a custom approach for each of my clients! I start with understanding where you are now and the challenges you are facing. I help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. I offer an inclusive, safe space with virtual appointments to suit your schedule. Helping people live a better life is my passion. It might mean learning to set boundaries, working through a loss, life transition or helping you change a pattern of behaviour that is keeping you stuck. My goal is to help you feel better so you can live the life you’ve always dreamed of!
I offer a custom approach for each of my clients! I start with understanding where you are now and the challenges you are facing. I help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. I offer an inclusive, safe space with virtual appointments to suit your schedule. Helping people live a better life is my passion. It might mean learning to set boundaries, working through a loss, life transition or helping you change a pattern of behaviour that is keeping you stuck. My goal is to help you feel better so you can live the life you’ve always dreamed of!
(401) 216-4411 View (401) 216-4411
Photo of Deborah Ashe, LMHC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah Ashe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Greenwich, RI 02818
l am a licensed mental health counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional specializing in the treatment of trauma and related disorders such as anxiety and depression. I believe that trauma in its many forms--sexual abuse and assault, emotional neglect, bullying, infidelity, divorce, or loss of a loved one--can have a profound effect on how we move through the world, relate to others, and think about ourselves. I use evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and mindfulness to help clients address the needs of their body, mind and spirit.
l am a licensed mental health counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional specializing in the treatment of trauma and related disorders such as anxiety and depression. I believe that trauma in its many forms--sexual abuse and assault, emotional neglect, bullying, infidelity, divorce, or loss of a loved one--can have a profound effect on how we move through the world, relate to others, and think about ourselves. I use evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and mindfulness to help clients address the needs of their body, mind and spirit.
(401) 234-0351 View (401) 234-0351
Photo of Carolyn Crews Forden, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolyn Crews Forden
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818  (Online Only)
I can work with you through struggles with depression, anxiety, grief, couple and marital issues, family relationships, along with other challenges or diagnoses.
***Currently accepting individuals, telehealth only*** Cheers to you for taking your first step toward the changes you seek. There is powerful scientific evidence that therapy works. You can learn better ways to relate to friends and family, approach conflict, identify and prioritize steps toward your life goals, or change patterns that keep you stuck. Using warmth and positive regard, I will work with you to establish an environment conducive to trust and willingness to lean into change. My approach will balance listening with gentle and transparent challenging of unproductive patterns of thinking and acting.
I can work with you through struggles with depression, anxiety, grief, couple and marital issues, family relationships, along with other challenges or diagnoses.
***Currently accepting individuals, telehealth only*** Cheers to you for taking your first step toward the changes you seek. There is powerful scientific evidence that therapy works. You can learn better ways to relate to friends and family, approach conflict, identify and prioritize steps toward your life goals, or change patterns that keep you stuck. Using warmth and positive regard, I will work with you to establish an environment conducive to trust and willingness to lean into change. My approach will balance listening with gentle and transparent challenging of unproductive patterns of thinking and acting.
(401) 375-5628 View (401) 375-5628
Photo of Erin Sepe, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Erin Sepe
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Erin is a psychotherapist, mom and a consultant with a reputation for promoting healthy interpersonal relationships, resolving conflict and helping others communicate effectively She provides clients with high standards of counseling and supports them in achieving the skills necessary to improve their emotional well being. Erin incorporates the tenets of cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapy and has special interest in the areas of grief and loss, anxiety, and divorce. Teaching others to identify how thoughts, emotions and behaviors shape who we are and how others perceive us is a central area of Erin's focus.
Erin is a psychotherapist, mom and a consultant with a reputation for promoting healthy interpersonal relationships, resolving conflict and helping others communicate effectively She provides clients with high standards of counseling and supports them in achieving the skills necessary to improve their emotional well being. Erin incorporates the tenets of cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapy and has special interest in the areas of grief and loss, anxiety, and divorce. Teaching others to identify how thoughts, emotions and behaviors shape who we are and how others perceive us is a central area of Erin's focus.
(401) 354-1151 View (401) 354-1151
Photo of Diana Greywolf, PhD, Psychologist
Diana Greywolf
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to counseling is supportive and growth oriented. I combine over 20 years of experience in a variety of social service settings with a firm belief that every human being has infinite potential, though sometimes undiscovered. Finding strengths and building on them to create a foundation that sustains the challenges life offers is my focus. A licensed psychologist in Rhode Island and Vermont, I have expertise in women’s issues, trauma (including EMDR treatment), grief, and stress management. I provide individual, family, and couples therapy via telehealth only.
My approach to counseling is supportive and growth oriented. I combine over 20 years of experience in a variety of social service settings with a firm belief that every human being has infinite potential, though sometimes undiscovered. Finding strengths and building on them to create a foundation that sustains the challenges life offers is my focus. A licensed psychologist in Rhode Island and Vermont, I have expertise in women’s issues, trauma (including EMDR treatment), grief, and stress management. I provide individual, family, and couples therapy via telehealth only.
(401) 307-4052 View (401) 307-4052
Photo of Priscilla Heslin, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Priscilla Heslin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Greenwich, RI 02818
I work with issues such as: depression, people in transitions, PTSD, anxiety, stress , grief and loss, relationship problems, low self esteem.
Welcome! I believe any problem large or small can be approached and solved in the right setting. I provide counseling for adults, I have been in the field for the past 30 years. My approach is holistic, safe, confidential, and a nurturing ‘space’ that allows you to take a deep breath and relax. It is then that you and I can work on the right solutions for the issues at hand. The goals are for you to learned tools from our sessions that you keep on using after therapy has ended. And resolve issues that you are struggling in your life.
I work with issues such as: depression, people in transitions, PTSD, anxiety, stress , grief and loss, relationship problems, low self esteem.
Welcome! I believe any problem large or small can be approached and solved in the right setting. I provide counseling for adults, I have been in the field for the past 30 years. My approach is holistic, safe, confidential, and a nurturing ‘space’ that allows you to take a deep breath and relax. It is then that you and I can work on the right solutions for the issues at hand. The goals are for you to learned tools from our sessions that you keep on using after therapy has ended. And resolve issues that you are struggling in your life.
(401) 369-5099 View (401) 369-5099
Photo of Frank Sorensen, MEd, LMHC, LCDP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Frank Sorensen
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LCDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Frank has extensive training and experience in trauma resolution work to counsel those affected by death, war, childhood abuse, illness, grief and loss.
Frank Sorensen, M.Ed, LMHC, LCDP is a psychotherapist with over twenty years experience counseling adolescents and adults with substance abuse and mental health issues. He has worked with diverse populations in various clinical settings such as hospitals, prisons, residential and intensive outpatient treatment programs. Frank obtained his Masters degree in Counseling Psychology from Cambridge College in 1999. Frank has a deep respect for each individual he encounters in his practice. He sees the innate goodness and the potential for wholeness in every person.
Frank has extensive training and experience in trauma resolution work to counsel those affected by death, war, childhood abuse, illness, grief and loss.
Frank Sorensen, M.Ed, LMHC, LCDP is a psychotherapist with over twenty years experience counseling adolescents and adults with substance abuse and mental health issues. He has worked with diverse populations in various clinical settings such as hospitals, prisons, residential and intensive outpatient treatment programs. Frank obtained his Masters degree in Counseling Psychology from Cambridge College in 1999. Frank has a deep respect for each individual he encounters in his practice. He sees the innate goodness and the potential for wholeness in every person.
(401) 354-1767 View (401) 354-1767
Photo of Sara Wye, LMHC, Counselor
Sara Wye
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
I have a general practice and have clients dealing with life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship, work, stress, grief, sexual identity issues and sexual and physical trauma.
No one is an island. Meeting with a supportive listener can ease the aloneness when more is going on in your life than you feel you can handle. Telling your story in a safe environment is often the key to hearing and understanding yourself more clearly. My goal is to be a compassionate and non-judgmental witness as you find the answers that are most likely already within you.
I have a general practice and have clients dealing with life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship, work, stress, grief, sexual identity issues and sexual and physical trauma.
No one is an island. Meeting with a supportive listener can ease the aloneness when more is going on in your life than you feel you can handle. Telling your story in a safe environment is often the key to hearing and understanding yourself more clearly. My goal is to be a compassionate and non-judgmental witness as you find the answers that are most likely already within you.
(401) 415-0172 View (401) 415-0172
Photo of Sara B Knight, MA, LMHC, CBE, Counselor
Sara B Knight
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CBE
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
I am a holistic counselor for individuals and couples. My clients come from a variety of backgrounds & identities. I offer a safe, welcoming space for LGBTQIA+ folx. My approach is eclectic and tailored to meet the client where they are. I am open to all spiritual and religious backgrounds, and to those who wish to develop their own unique spirituality. I support monogamy, poly, ENM, open, etc. I focus on lifestyle cultivation, stress-reduction, work-life balance, ADHD, neurodivergence, depression and anxiety, pre- and post-natal concerns, marriage, divorce, grief and end-of-life concerns.
I am a holistic counselor for individuals and couples. My clients come from a variety of backgrounds & identities. I offer a safe, welcoming space for LGBTQIA+ folx. My approach is eclectic and tailored to meet the client where they are. I am open to all spiritual and religious backgrounds, and to those who wish to develop their own unique spirituality. I support monogamy, poly, ENM, open, etc. I focus on lifestyle cultivation, stress-reduction, work-life balance, ADHD, neurodivergence, depression and anxiety, pre- and post-natal concerns, marriage, divorce, grief and end-of-life concerns.
(401) 425-7774 View (401) 425-7774
Photo of Rachel Leonard, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Leonard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Greenwich, RI 02818
As a social worker with special training in the areas of mental health, domestic violence, trauma (including sexual abuse and assault), self harm, anxiety, depression and grief & loss, I will draw on these experiences to help you or your child (aged 13 or older).
Current openings are between 9 am and 2 pm. Life sure has a lot of rough patches! The feelings of overwhelming sadness, excessive worry, or the uncertainty that unforeseen situations bring can make us forget how strong we really are. I work with adults, young adults, and adolescents who are having a hard time coping with stress the way they used to. I consider it a privilege to be with people as they navigate these difficult times in their lives. Together we will find what works for you/ your teen so that life becomes manageable again and those strengths shine through.
As a social worker with special training in the areas of mental health, domestic violence, trauma (including sexual abuse and assault), self harm, anxiety, depression and grief & loss, I will draw on these experiences to help you or your child (aged 13 or older).
Current openings are between 9 am and 2 pm. Life sure has a lot of rough patches! The feelings of overwhelming sadness, excessive worry, or the uncertainty that unforeseen situations bring can make us forget how strong we really are. I work with adults, young adults, and adolescents who are having a hard time coping with stress the way they used to. I consider it a privilege to be with people as they navigate these difficult times in their lives. Together we will find what works for you/ your teen so that life becomes manageable again and those strengths shine through.
(401) 316-0126 View (401) 316-0126
Photo of Meg Bartlett, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meg Bartlett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818  (Online Only)
This naturally includes treating individual issues as well, specifically, child and adolescent developmental/school/parenting issues; adult development; personal transformation; balancing mood & healthy lifestyle practices; and elderly concerns of loss and aging.
Real change requires conscious effort and action, in addition to a deeper understanding of old patterns. As your therapist, I'll listen to your story, and perhaps hear an unspoken one in the spaces between your words. Good therapy is about empathetic listening, holding space, and developing trust so you can safely identify patterns of thinking, feeling and behaving which may be holding you back; explore possibilities; and develop self-awareness about yourself. Sometimes just being heard inspires us to consciously choose to change the nature of our underlying thoughts, and thus move toward personal growth and transformation.
This naturally includes treating individual issues as well, specifically, child and adolescent developmental/school/parenting issues; adult development; personal transformation; balancing mood & healthy lifestyle practices; and elderly concerns of loss and aging.
Real change requires conscious effort and action, in addition to a deeper understanding of old patterns. As your therapist, I'll listen to your story, and perhaps hear an unspoken one in the spaces between your words. Good therapy is about empathetic listening, holding space, and developing trust so you can safely identify patterns of thinking, feeling and behaving which may be holding you back; explore possibilities; and develop self-awareness about yourself. Sometimes just being heard inspires us to consciously choose to change the nature of our underlying thoughts, and thus move toward personal growth and transformation.
(401) 685-0510 View (401) 685-0510
Photo of Katie A Saraiva, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie A Saraiva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Greenwich, RI 02818
I have vast experience in working with adults, families, children and adolscents. I am dedicated to providing people with the support and guidance they need to achieve goals, learn coping mechansims and invest in leading an overall healthy lifestyle for your mind, body and spirit. I have experience working with miltary members/families, ADHD, behavioral issues in children, anxiety, depression, bipolar, life transitions, grief, trauma, Autism and several other areas.
I have vast experience in working with adults, families, children and adolscents. I am dedicated to providing people with the support and guidance they need to achieve goals, learn coping mechansims and invest in leading an overall healthy lifestyle for your mind, body and spirit. I have experience working with miltary members/families, ADHD, behavioral issues in children, anxiety, depression, bipolar, life transitions, grief, trauma, Autism and several other areas.
(401) 309-0892 View (401) 309-0892
Photo of Yardley Prettyman, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yardley Prettyman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
I am a clinical social worker with over 30 years experience working in RI. If you or a family member is experiencing depression, anxiety, loss, have a history of trauma/PTSD, or are feeling overwhelmed in your life...therapy could be the answer. Over time I have witnessed amazing outcomes as a result of the therapeutic process.
I am a clinical social worker with over 30 years experience working in RI. If you or a family member is experiencing depression, anxiety, loss, have a history of trauma/PTSD, or are feeling overwhelmed in your life...therapy could be the answer. Over time I have witnessed amazing outcomes as a result of the therapeutic process.
(401) 592-3334 View (401) 592-3334
1

See more therapy options for East Greenwich

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.