Grief Therapists in Williamsburg, Arlington, VA

Photo of Imani Fraser, MA
Imani Fraser
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Arlington, VA 22213
Imani also enjoys facilitating an array of group therapy experiences, including celebrating and honoring the experiences of refugees, cultivating space for grief and loss within the military, and programs for creative expression amongst adolescents and young adults.
Imani Fraser (they/he/she) is a Master’s level Art Therapist working with children (8 and over), adolescents, and young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity development/discovery/reconciliation, and relationship management. They utilize art therapy, talk therapy, and play therapy in their work with clients and families, prioritizing a person-centered, existential, and multicultural theoretical approach. As a therapist, their goal is to safely and gently create the space the client needs to understand more about themselves and how their identity and behaviors influenc their relationships and life.
Imani also enjoys facilitating an array of group therapy experiences, including celebrating and honoring the experiences of refugees, cultivating space for grief and loss within the military, and programs for creative expression amongst adolescents and young adults.
Imani Fraser (they/he/she) is a Master’s level Art Therapist working with children (8 and over), adolescents, and young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity development/discovery/reconciliation, and relationship management. They utilize art therapy, talk therapy, and play therapy in their work with clients and families, prioritizing a person-centered, existential, and multicultural theoretical approach. As a therapist, their goal is to safely and gently create the space the client needs to understand more about themselves and how their identity and behaviors influenc their relationships and life.
(571) 583-5296 View (571) 583-5296
Photo of Marion Scotchmer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marion Scotchmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, Arlington, VA 22213
I am Marion “Mimi” Scotchmer, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, LICSW) with over 16 years of experience working in behavioral health. I support clients who are experiencing a wide range of concerns, including mental distress, anxiety, depression, grief, major life transitions, and relationship challenges.
I am Marion “Mimi” Scotchmer, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, LICSW) with over 16 years of experience working in behavioral health. I support clients who are experiencing a wide range of concerns, including mental distress, anxiety, depression, grief, major life transitions, and relationship challenges.
(571) 487-8017 View (571) 487-8017
Photo of Startasha Dillard, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Startasha Dillard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, Arlington, VA 22213  (Online Only)
I’m Startasha Dillard, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and the District of Columbia, with 16 years of experience in the behavioral health field. I’ve worked with individuals facing both mental health and substance use disorders, helping adults navigate issues such as addiction, anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, anger, and relationship challenges. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can share openly. My approach involves maintaining an open ear, flexibility, and the awareness needed to meet your unique needs.
I’m Startasha Dillard, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and the District of Columbia, with 16 years of experience in the behavioral health field. I’ve worked with individuals facing both mental health and substance use disorders, helping adults navigate issues such as addiction, anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, anger, and relationship challenges. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can share openly. My approach involves maintaining an open ear, flexibility, and the awareness needed to meet your unique needs.
(571) 548-3179 View (571) 548-3179
Photo of Erica Ohnstad - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry McLean, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry McLean
Counselor
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, Arlington, VA 22213
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(571) 540-7917 View (571) 540-7917
Photo of Grace Stichter, MA, ATR-P, Pre-Licensed Professional
Grace Stichter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Arlington, VA 22213
Is your child or teen struggling and you are looking for way to support them? Are you feeling overwhelmed, unsure during a time of transition or change? Maybe you are a parent struggling to know what the best treatment options are. I am passionate about cultivating a safe and inclusive space for kids and teens to express themselves and to provide parents the opportunity to gain insight and feel empowered. Through art, play and sandtray therapy, as well as counseling, kids and teens engage in a creative and effective therapy process. In our work together, kids, teens and their families experience insight, growth and positive change.
Is your child or teen struggling and you are looking for way to support them? Are you feeling overwhelmed, unsure during a time of transition or change? Maybe you are a parent struggling to know what the best treatment options are. I am passionate about cultivating a safe and inclusive space for kids and teens to express themselves and to provide parents the opportunity to gain insight and feel empowered. Through art, play and sandtray therapy, as well as counseling, kids and teens engage in a creative and effective therapy process. In our work together, kids, teens and their families experience insight, growth and positive change.
(703) 936-6472 View (703) 936-6472
Photo of Demitra Chandler - Mental Health CPR, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mental Health CPR, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Arlington, VA 22213  (Online Only)
We are accepting new clients for Counseling & Life Coaching! We believe in the power of self-care and personal growth. Our therapy and life coaching services are specifically designed to support individuals and their families in their own journey of healing and self-discovery.​ Our practice combines therapists, life coaches, and students to provide overall holistic care. We are currently a virtual practice and we accept almost all insurance companies including Medicaid. Life coaching is not covered by insurance.
We are accepting new clients for Counseling & Life Coaching! We believe in the power of self-care and personal growth. Our therapy and life coaching services are specifically designed to support individuals and their families in their own journey of healing and self-discovery.​ Our practice combines therapists, life coaches, and students to provide overall holistic care. We are currently a virtual practice and we accept almost all insurance companies including Medicaid. Life coaching is not covered by insurance.
(571) 583-6188 View (571) 583-6188
Photo of Ben Sollenberger - Ben Sollenberger (Mens Specialist), MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ben Sollenberger (Mens Specialist)
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Arlington, VA 22213
I specialize in helping men in their 20s and 30s. Like most men, you will likely experience anxiety and disappointments about relationships, career path, education or a major life transition like moving to a new city at some point during your 20s or 30s. And I understand finding someone relatable to help you make sense of all these concerns can be tough. In fact, fewer than 16% of therapists under 40 are male.
I specialize in helping men in their 20s and 30s. Like most men, you will likely experience anxiety and disappointments about relationships, career path, education or a major life transition like moving to a new city at some point during your 20s or 30s. And I understand finding someone relatable to help you make sense of all these concerns can be tough. In fact, fewer than 16% of therapists under 40 are male.
(571) 427-0587 View (571) 427-0587
Photo of Dr. Brian A Sharpless, PhD, MA, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Dr. Brian A Sharpless
Psychologist, PhD, MA, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Arlington, VA 22213
NOTE: I will have an opening starting the week of 11/18. Hi! I am a clinical psychologist (PhD) trained at Penn State and the University of Pennsylvania. Though I work with many issues (e.g., depression, anxiety, struggling professionals), I specialize in treating personality and sleep disorders as well as more unusual/rare/treatment-resistant conditions. I also conduct formal diagnostic assessments. A significant portion of my practice involves providing clinical supervision or therapy to other therapists. I am currently licensed in MD & VA and can work with people in most other states (including DC) using my PSYPACT credential.
NOTE: I will have an opening starting the week of 11/18. Hi! I am a clinical psychologist (PhD) trained at Penn State and the University of Pennsylvania. Though I work with many issues (e.g., depression, anxiety, struggling professionals), I specialize in treating personality and sleep disorders as well as more unusual/rare/treatment-resistant conditions. I also conduct formal diagnostic assessments. A significant portion of my practice involves providing clinical supervision or therapy to other therapists. I am currently licensed in MD & VA and can work with people in most other states (including DC) using my PSYPACT credential.
(301) 250-1435 View (301) 250-1435
Photo of Ben Sollenberger - Ben Sollenberger (20s/30s Mens Issues), Pre-Licensed Professional
Ben Sollenberger (20s/30s Mens Issues)
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Arlington, VA 22213
I specialize in helping men in their 20s and 30s. Like most men, you will likely experience anxiety and disappointments about relationships, career path, education or a major life transition like moving to a new city at some point during your 20s or 30s. And I understand finding someone relatable to help you make sense of all these concerns can be tough. In fact, fewer than 16% of therapists under 40 are male.
I specialize in helping men in their 20s and 30s. Like most men, you will likely experience anxiety and disappointments about relationships, career path, education or a major life transition like moving to a new city at some point during your 20s or 30s. And I understand finding someone relatable to help you make sense of all these concerns can be tough. In fact, fewer than 16% of therapists under 40 are male.
(571) 617-7145 View (571) 617-7145
Photo of Renea Slaughter, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renea Slaughter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Arlington, VA 22213  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe therapy is where a person is able to elicit assistance, for any set of struggles, by an unbiased, non-judgmental, empowering professional in a safe environment. Each person gets individualized treatment through their specific goals and tailored interventions. Through active listening, I support each client in identifying current areas of concern, collaborating with them to promote independence and self-reliance, and increasing their ability to overcome obstacles holding them back from achieving what they would like to achieve.
I believe therapy is where a person is able to elicit assistance, for any set of struggles, by an unbiased, non-judgmental, empowering professional in a safe environment. Each person gets individualized treatment through their specific goals and tailored interventions. Through active listening, I support each client in identifying current areas of concern, collaborating with them to promote independence and self-reliance, and increasing their ability to overcome obstacles holding them back from achieving what they would like to achieve.
(301) 205-5107 View (301) 205-5107

Online Therapists

Photo of Victoria Colborn Bathe, PhD, Psychologist
Victoria Colborn Bathe
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22209
I specialize in working with couples aiming to repair bonds and foster trust, as well as individuals hoping to improve the quality of their lives. My clients seek help for a range of concerns, including relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and life transitions. Healing wounds from the past while juggling the responsibilities and realities of today can lead to feeling stuck, stressed, or like there simply has to be more to life. If this sounds like you, now might be the time to work with a psychologist who can help.
I specialize in working with couples aiming to repair bonds and foster trust, as well as individuals hoping to improve the quality of their lives. My clients seek help for a range of concerns, including relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and life transitions. Healing wounds from the past while juggling the responsibilities and realities of today can lead to feeling stuck, stressed, or like there simply has to be more to life. If this sounds like you, now might be the time to work with a psychologist who can help.
(202) 953-2925 View (202) 953-2925
Photo of Courtney Freiman, PsyD, Psychologist
Courtney Freiman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples experiencing difficulties related to self-esteem, perfectionism, anxiety, depression, postpartum adjustment/depression, grief & loss, posttraumatic stress disorder, and ADHD.
Change, no matter how necessary it may be, is never easy. I create an open and supportive environment which allows individuals to feel comfortable in sharing their personal stories. I help empower individuals to set healthy goals and gain personal insight. I offer patience, support and constructive feedback to help individuals become more aware of their needs and to teach people the skills needed to make positive and adaptive choices. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy which allows me to tailor treatment to a person's needs in order to assess difficulties, set realistic goals, and to evaluate progress.
I work with individuals and couples experiencing difficulties related to self-esteem, perfectionism, anxiety, depression, postpartum adjustment/depression, grief & loss, posttraumatic stress disorder, and ADHD.
Change, no matter how necessary it may be, is never easy. I create an open and supportive environment which allows individuals to feel comfortable in sharing their personal stories. I help empower individuals to set healthy goals and gain personal insight. I offer patience, support and constructive feedback to help individuals become more aware of their needs and to teach people the skills needed to make positive and adaptive choices. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy which allows me to tailor treatment to a person's needs in order to assess difficulties, set realistic goals, and to evaluate progress.
(203) 819-7782 View (203) 819-7782
Photo of Sharon Schönteich, PhD, Psychological Associate
Sharon Schönteich
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22203
Dr. Schönteich is a Licensed Psychology Associate in DC and a post-doctoral resident in VA. She is equipped with extensive training in evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, traumatic stress, social anxiety, and OCD. She also treats mood disorders, adjustment to life stressors, and emotion regulation disorders. Dr. Schönteich has a specialized interest in the treatment of symptoms related to infertility, fertility loss, and the perinatal and postpartum periods. She recently published a book, Struggling with Infertility.
Dr. Schönteich is a Licensed Psychology Associate in DC and a post-doctoral resident in VA. She is equipped with extensive training in evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, traumatic stress, social anxiety, and OCD. She also treats mood disorders, adjustment to life stressors, and emotion regulation disorders. Dr. Schönteich has a specialized interest in the treatment of symptoms related to infertility, fertility loss, and the perinatal and postpartum periods. She recently published a book, Struggling with Infertility.
(844) 324-0151 View (844) 324-0151
Photo of Dr. Mirian A Campos, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Mirian A Campos
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
My specialties are working with clients on end of life issues, depression, adjustment due to loss, grief, anxiety, working with burnout and compassion fatigue, healthcare professionals, 1st generation college students, and Spanish speaking populations.
I work from a wellness model and believe anyone can benefit from counseling. I work to provide a safe environment where my clients feel supported and heard. Counseling has not, and still isn't always accepted in many communities, so making the decision to come to counseling with the fear of "el que diran" (what will they say) can be difficult. I will do my best to guide you in your journey to understand how therapy can help you. I also have over 9 years of experience working with individuals who have been affected by cancer, and know it can be difficult to find someone to talk to who is knowledgeable on the topic.
My specialties are working with clients on end of life issues, depression, adjustment due to loss, grief, anxiety, working with burnout and compassion fatigue, healthcare professionals, 1st generation college students, and Spanish speaking populations.
I work from a wellness model and believe anyone can benefit from counseling. I work to provide a safe environment where my clients feel supported and heard. Counseling has not, and still isn't always accepted in many communities, so making the decision to come to counseling with the fear of "el que diran" (what will they say) can be difficult. I will do my best to guide you in your journey to understand how therapy can help you. I also have over 9 years of experience working with individuals who have been affected by cancer, and know it can be difficult to find someone to talk to who is knowledgeable on the topic.
(571) 470-6360 View (571) 470-6360
Lotus Holistic Therapy Center PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMT-100
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22205  (Online Only)
We are so glad you are here. We know that you are tired of being overdiagnosed and over-medicated. You know your body and your mind best-- and what you need right now is for someone to listen. What you need is someone who can consider every part of you and your situation. Lotus Holistic Therapy Center is for women struggling with fertility, confidence, trauma, and/or grief-- Teenagers trying to navigate a changing world and the tumultuous emotions that go along with that-- Couples who are having to learn their partner in a new way.
We are so glad you are here. We know that you are tired of being overdiagnosed and over-medicated. You know your body and your mind best-- and what you need right now is for someone to listen. What you need is someone who can consider every part of you and your situation. Lotus Holistic Therapy Center is for women struggling with fertility, confidence, trauma, and/or grief-- Teenagers trying to navigate a changing world and the tumultuous emotions that go along with that-- Couples who are having to learn their partner in a new way.
(704) 318-2740 View (704) 318-2740
Photo of Billie Mitzner, LPC, CACI, MBA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Billie Mitzner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CACI, MBA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22209  (Online Only)
Together, we identify your strengths, then explore barriers to a more satisfying life, including anxiety, fear of rejection, loss, and low self esteem.
I'm licensed in DC and Virginia. My work is with adults experiencing difficult transitions who are trying to cope with the resulting stressors and uncertainties. The goal is to build capacity, make and sustain changes that are meaningful: including changes/losses related to career and relationships, new circumstances such as grief, sexuality, return to school, and retirement. My expertise is in the treatment of issues related addiction/recovery, and the impact on family and significant others. We work together so that you may effectively reengage in your personal and professional life and handle any potential license/clearance
Together, we identify your strengths, then explore barriers to a more satisfying life, including anxiety, fear of rejection, loss, and low self esteem.
I'm licensed in DC and Virginia. My work is with adults experiencing difficult transitions who are trying to cope with the resulting stressors and uncertainties. The goal is to build capacity, make and sustain changes that are meaningful: including changes/losses related to career and relationships, new circumstances such as grief, sexuality, return to school, and retirement. My expertise is in the treatment of issues related addiction/recovery, and the impact on family and significant others. We work together so that you may effectively reengage in your personal and professional life and handle any potential license/clearance
(202) 760-4673 View (202) 760-4673
Photo of Infertility Pregnancy Postpartum Third Party Reproduction, LCSW, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Infertility Pregnancy Postpartum Third Party Reproduction
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22209
I specialize in infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, pregnancy loss, TFMR birth trauma.
Are you struggling with the emotional rollercoaster of infertility? Are you pregnant or postpartum and feeling overwhelmed with parenthood? Reproductive stress is a deeply personal experience that touches every corner of your life. The frustration and invisible battles can lead to feelings of hopelessness, making it difficult to envision a future where you're a parent. Anxiety can lead to continuous worry about what treatment options to pursue, outcome of fertility treatments, potential complications, and the financial burden of treatments. Accepting Aetna in DC, MD, VA & GA. BCBS/Anthem/Carefirst: VA, pending MD, United pendin
I specialize in infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, pregnancy loss, TFMR birth trauma.
Are you struggling with the emotional rollercoaster of infertility? Are you pregnant or postpartum and feeling overwhelmed with parenthood? Reproductive stress is a deeply personal experience that touches every corner of your life. The frustration and invisible battles can lead to feelings of hopelessness, making it difficult to envision a future where you're a parent. Anxiety can lead to continuous worry about what treatment options to pursue, outcome of fertility treatments, potential complications, and the financial burden of treatments. Accepting Aetna in DC, MD, VA & GA. BCBS/Anthem/Carefirst: VA, pending MD, United pendin
(571) 378-5825 View (571) 378-5825
Photo of Varsha Balijepalli, LPC-R
Varsha Balijepalli
Resident in Counseling, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22209
I have a background in working with adults, teens, and children, especially those impacted by grief/trauma and are marginalized in some form or fashion.
My motto as a therapist is to provide clients with unconditional positive regard and a solid therapeutic relationship. I believe that with caring and nurturance, there is no wound that cannot be healed and no fear that cannot be overcome. Together, we will discover your current alignment with your "authentic self " and work towards becoming your highest self/ best version. We are all work in progress, and while you may only see the seeds in you, I already see the flowers blooming in you. My aim is to offer you a gentle, sensitive, empathic and non-judgemental relationship, permitting you to reach a point of illumination and healing.
I have a background in working with adults, teens, and children, especially those impacted by grief/trauma and are marginalized in some form or fashion.
My motto as a therapist is to provide clients with unconditional positive regard and a solid therapeutic relationship. I believe that with caring and nurturance, there is no wound that cannot be healed and no fear that cannot be overcome. Together, we will discover your current alignment with your "authentic self " and work towards becoming your highest self/ best version. We are all work in progress, and while you may only see the seeds in you, I already see the flowers blooming in you. My aim is to offer you a gentle, sensitive, empathic and non-judgemental relationship, permitting you to reach a point of illumination and healing.
(571) 462-6480 View (571) 462-6480
Photo of Michelle Swanson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Swanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22207  (Online Only)
I’m Michelle Swanson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. I work with adults to address various issues, including bipolar disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and personality disorders. I also assist with concerns such as grief and loss, relationship issues, chronic illness, and peripartum anxiety and depression. My background includes community mental health, inpatient psychiatry, crisis intervention, disaster response, and medical social work, with additional expertise in working with veterans, seniors, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I’m Michelle Swanson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. I work with adults to address various issues, including bipolar disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and personality disorders. I also assist with concerns such as grief and loss, relationship issues, chronic illness, and peripartum anxiety and depression. My background includes community mental health, inpatient psychiatry, crisis intervention, disaster response, and medical social work, with additional expertise in working with veterans, seniors, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
(571) 200-3084 View (571) 200-3084
Photo of Lisa Ann Zager - Lisa Zager, LPC, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Zager, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22203  (Online Only)
Training and experience in grief and loss has taught me to appreciate the individualistic nature of integrating loss as well as the external or relational dynamics that either help or hinder growth.
My purpose in each therapeutic relationship is to create a safe environment where compassion and curiosity rule. I respect the courage it takes to explore vulnerability. I have just as much respect for protective strategies that are employed,no matter how constructive or destructive they may seem. In our time together we will focus on bringing clarity to both internal and external or relational distress. My education, training and experience have prepared me to address issues of grief, trauma and transition from many angles.
Training and experience in grief and loss has taught me to appreciate the individualistic nature of integrating loss as well as the external or relational dynamics that either help or hinder growth.
My purpose in each therapeutic relationship is to create a safe environment where compassion and curiosity rule. I respect the courage it takes to explore vulnerability. I have just as much respect for protective strategies that are employed,no matter how constructive or destructive they may seem. In our time together we will focus on bringing clarity to both internal and external or relational distress. My education, training and experience have prepared me to address issues of grief, trauma and transition from many angles.
(703) 935-5801 View (703) 935-5801

See more therapy options for Williamsburg, Arlington

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.