Grief Therapists in Spokane, WA

Photo of Kelsey Spradlin, MA, LMHC, NCC, CMHS, Counselor
Kelsey Spradlin
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, CMHS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201
Whether you are having your first therapeutic experience or have been involved with the counseling world previously; it is important to find the right person to share this experience with. I am currently working with children, adolescents, adults and families with various mental health concerns. Some of my areas of specialization include trauma and abuse, grief/loss anxiety, and depression.
Whether you are having your first therapeutic experience or have been involved with the counseling world previously; it is important to find the right person to share this experience with. I am currently working with children, adolescents, adults and families with various mental health concerns. Some of my areas of specialization include trauma and abuse, grief/loss anxiety, and depression.
(509) 774-5716 View (509) 774-5716
Photo of Cheryl Kay Wright, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, NCC, CGIP, Counselor
Cheryl Kay Wright
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, NCC, CGIP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99223  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with women's issues, mood disorders, grief, loss, and PTSD.
Cheryl Wright M.ED, LMHC, SUDP, NCC, MAC, I have been a therapist over 12 years working with individuals who are struggling with life. It may be mental health, addiction, grief or relationship issues. My goal is to help you begin a healing journey to a more balanced self. I believe we need someone to talk to who will listen, not judge and accept us where we are. I want you to have peace, hope and make the changes you desire. I use a variety of approaches including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy and Reality Therapy. I believe everyone deserves the very best and I tailor my approach to meet your needs.
I enjoy working with women's issues, mood disorders, grief, loss, and PTSD.
Cheryl Wright M.ED, LMHC, SUDP, NCC, MAC, I have been a therapist over 12 years working with individuals who are struggling with life. It may be mental health, addiction, grief or relationship issues. My goal is to help you begin a healing journey to a more balanced self. I believe we need someone to talk to who will listen, not judge and accept us where we are. I want you to have peace, hope and make the changes you desire. I use a variety of approaches including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy and Reality Therapy. I believe everyone deserves the very best and I tailor my approach to meet your needs.
(509) 956-4891 View (509) 956-4891
Photo of John Stifter, MA, LMHC, Counselor
John Stifter
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99204
I am not your conventional psychotherapist. My journey into the world of mental health is uniquely shaped by my background as a ski journalist and lived experiences of grief, loss, tragedy, and trauma. Driven by a desire to bridge my passion for storytelling with holistic healing, I use my sincere interest in the human experience in the therapy setting to treat adults, couples, and families living with shame, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, addiction, and life transitions and questions. As the Sufi poet Rumi once wrote, “The cure for pain is in the pain.”
I am not your conventional psychotherapist. My journey into the world of mental health is uniquely shaped by my background as a ski journalist and lived experiences of grief, loss, tragedy, and trauma. Driven by a desire to bridge my passion for storytelling with holistic healing, I use my sincere interest in the human experience in the therapy setting to treat adults, couples, and families living with shame, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, addiction, and life transitions and questions. As the Sufi poet Rumi once wrote, “The cure for pain is in the pain.”
(509) 761-6396 View (509) 761-6396
Photo of Bridget Curran, MBA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Bridget Curran
Counselor, MBA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201
Hi there! I specialize in helping people navigate the dark difficult edges of life. Darkness might express itself as depression, anxiety, persistent grief, a sense of isolation, suicidal thoughts, a feeling of being stuck, or... a whole mess of things unique to you. ​In therapy, we work together to build a container that can hold the inevitable fear that comes with exploring dark edges, and the rejected, heavy parts of ourselves that seem to keep getting in our way. It turns out, witnessing and caring for these troubled parts of ourselves, opens up possibility for deep joy, curiosity, emotional courage and life shifting compassion.
Hi there! I specialize in helping people navigate the dark difficult edges of life. Darkness might express itself as depression, anxiety, persistent grief, a sense of isolation, suicidal thoughts, a feeling of being stuck, or... a whole mess of things unique to you. ​In therapy, we work together to build a container that can hold the inevitable fear that comes with exploring dark edges, and the rejected, heavy parts of ourselves that seem to keep getting in our way. It turns out, witnessing and caring for these troubled parts of ourselves, opens up possibility for deep joy, curiosity, emotional courage and life shifting compassion.
(509) 260-3848 View (509) 260-3848
Photo of Amber Ford - Neupathway LLC (Amber Ford) , EdD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neupathway LLC (Amber Ford)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201  (Online Only)
We all need support throughout our lives, and you may be looking for an additional resource to help you process lived experiences, problem-solve, or understand yourself in a deeper way. You may be struggling with anxiety, the challenges of caregiving, work stress and burnout, relationship challenges, or working through grief, loss, or bereavement. You want to engage in healthy coping skills and develop self-care habits to better support the vision you have for your life.
We all need support throughout our lives, and you may be looking for an additional resource to help you process lived experiences, problem-solve, or understand yourself in a deeper way. You may be struggling with anxiety, the challenges of caregiving, work stress and burnout, relationship challenges, or working through grief, loss, or bereavement. You want to engage in healthy coping skills and develop self-care habits to better support the vision you have for your life.
(509) 400-4788 View (509) 400-4788
Photo of Saryl Case, LMHCA
Saryl Case
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99216
Immediate availability. When we meet, we'll focus on your needs and you'll be met with warmth. You'll feel supported in the courageous journey you're on. With me, topics that can feel uncomfortable do not feel uncomfortable. I have walked clients through talking about sex, relational discord, grief, and traumatic loss. Your emotional needs are valid, and to be known and seen are part of an enriching human experience; it would be an honor to meet you in such a way.
Immediate availability. When we meet, we'll focus on your needs and you'll be met with warmth. You'll feel supported in the courageous journey you're on. With me, topics that can feel uncomfortable do not feel uncomfortable. I have walked clients through talking about sex, relational discord, grief, and traumatic loss. Your emotional needs are valid, and to be known and seen are part of an enriching human experience; it would be an honor to meet you in such a way.
(509) 431-6039 View (509) 431-6039
Photo of Maggie M Evans, MA, LMHC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Maggie M Evans
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201
Is it mega-grief or chronic exhaustion making you want to rage quit? There is another way.
You're pretty much a survival-mode expert. You take pride in your robust ability to show up and take care of the shitty parts of life. You've managed and masked well until now. Suddenly your quirks have become magnified, old wounds re-triggered, and the shame and blame intensified; you can't hold it together much longer. Time’s passed and your ability to cope has too - only secretly.  You’ve got no one to talk to because you’ve convinced everyone you’re “fine”.  You escape to the bathroom to prevent overwhelm-induced public meltdowns. You are stuck, stagnant, and searching for yourself and where you belong...but where to start?
Is it mega-grief or chronic exhaustion making you want to rage quit? There is another way.
You're pretty much a survival-mode expert. You take pride in your robust ability to show up and take care of the shitty parts of life. You've managed and masked well until now. Suddenly your quirks have become magnified, old wounds re-triggered, and the shame and blame intensified; you can't hold it together much longer. Time’s passed and your ability to cope has too - only secretly.  You’ve got no one to talk to because you’ve convinced everyone you’re “fine”.  You escape to the bathroom to prevent overwhelm-induced public meltdowns. You are stuck, stagnant, and searching for yourself and where you belong...but where to start?
(509) 285-1589 View (509) 285-1589
Photo of Katie Curran, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Katie Curran
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201
I work with college students, artists, young professionals, witchy folks and grief and loss.
Now Accepting New Clients! You crave conversations about the universe, meaning, and purpose. You feel most alive and at peace while creating. Discussing the weather kills your soul a bit. People keep telling you you're in the "prime of your life" and you still have no idea wtf you're doing, and kinda feel like a hot mess. You also secretly wish that iced coffee you get every morning is just going to magically solve all your problems...I get it. Young adulthood, while exciting, can be kind of a mess and it sure isn't talked about enough. If you're needing a space to figure out where you want to go from here, shoot me a text.
I work with college students, artists, young professionals, witchy folks and grief and loss.
Now Accepting New Clients! You crave conversations about the universe, meaning, and purpose. You feel most alive and at peace while creating. Discussing the weather kills your soul a bit. People keep telling you you're in the "prime of your life" and you still have no idea wtf you're doing, and kinda feel like a hot mess. You also secretly wish that iced coffee you get every morning is just going to magically solve all your problems...I get it. Young adulthood, while exciting, can be kind of a mess and it sure isn't talked about enough. If you're needing a space to figure out where you want to go from here, shoot me a text.
(509) 822-2548 View (509) 822-2548
Photo of Sarah X Winn, MA, LMHC, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah X Winn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMHC, LMFTA
Not Verified Not Verified
Spokane, WA 99204
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, grief and loss, healing from sexual abuse, healthy relationships, family of origin issues and LGBTQA issues.
I provide counseling services for children, youth, young adults, adults and families. I utilize a variety of orientations, methods and techniques, based on what is most appropriate for my clients at any given time. Together with clients I explore their unique selves, including their thoughts, feelings and experiences. My goal is to accompany them on their healing journey towards empowerment, greater self-awareness, knowledge and hope. I also aim to assist clients in identifying how their life experiences have helped make them the person they are and to recognize areas where they may have gotten stuck.
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, grief and loss, healing from sexual abuse, healthy relationships, family of origin issues and LGBTQA issues.
I provide counseling services for children, youth, young adults, adults and families. I utilize a variety of orientations, methods and techniques, based on what is most appropriate for my clients at any given time. Together with clients I explore their unique selves, including their thoughts, feelings and experiences. My goal is to accompany them on their healing journey towards empowerment, greater self-awareness, knowledge and hope. I also aim to assist clients in identifying how their life experiences have helped make them the person they are and to recognize areas where they may have gotten stuck.
(509) 412-3727 View (509) 412-3727
Photo of Christine G Alexanian, LMSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine G Alexanian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99204
I am client-centered & appreciate a holistic view of each client (body, mind, spirit). My focus is traditional "talk therapy" with a strengths perspective that allows for clients' insight, and I use wisdom garnered from training in Native American spirituality, a study and practice of yoga, and Christianity. Some of my specialties are: depression, grief & loss, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship and workplace issues, the GLBTQ community, and life transitions. I am a Certified Trauma Treatment Specialist.
I am client-centered & appreciate a holistic view of each client (body, mind, spirit). My focus is traditional "talk therapy" with a strengths perspective that allows for clients' insight, and I use wisdom garnered from training in Native American spirituality, a study and practice of yoga, and Christianity. Some of my specialties are: depression, grief & loss, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship and workplace issues, the GLBTQ community, and life transitions. I am a Certified Trauma Treatment Specialist.
(208) 214-4331 View (208) 214-4331
Photo of Kade Freeman, LMHC-A, Counselor
Kade Freeman
Counselor, LMHC-A
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
Join me in a space of acceptance while going through your therapy experience, where we honor diversity within cultural backgrounds, neurodiversity, and expressions of gender and sexuality. Together, let’s explore how your identity, thought patterns and experiences shape your unique view of the world. I am dedicated to supporting individuals with cognitive differences, including ADHD, autism, and various disabilities, as well as serving the LGBTQ+ population. Additionally, I am passionate about guiding individuals through their personal grief journeys.
Join me in a space of acceptance while going through your therapy experience, where we honor diversity within cultural backgrounds, neurodiversity, and expressions of gender and sexuality. Together, let’s explore how your identity, thought patterns and experiences shape your unique view of the world. I am dedicated to supporting individuals with cognitive differences, including ADHD, autism, and various disabilities, as well as serving the LGBTQ+ population. Additionally, I am passionate about guiding individuals through their personal grief journeys.
(509) 481-9629 View (509) 481-9629
Photo of Artrice S Hughes, LSWAIC, MHP, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Artrice S Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MHP, CCM
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201  (Online Only)
Life is a beautiful thing until one day you wake up to a nightmare. Feeling anger, anxious, betrayal, broken, defeated, loss, pain, or overwhelmed; unsure how to express your emotions or continue to live. Tired of hearing you are strong when in all actuality you feel yourself suffocating. I have been there and it is valid if you are too. A wise man once told me attack life's trials one nano second at a time and allow no one to take you out of your happy bubble. It's not the misery we face but the steps we take to overcoming those adversities to embrace your greatness. Healing is forever time to be free ReNana Your HeArt with me!
Life is a beautiful thing until one day you wake up to a nightmare. Feeling anger, anxious, betrayal, broken, defeated, loss, pain, or overwhelmed; unsure how to express your emotions or continue to live. Tired of hearing you are strong when in all actuality you feel yourself suffocating. I have been there and it is valid if you are too. A wise man once told me attack life's trials one nano second at a time and allow no one to take you out of your happy bubble. It's not the misery we face but the steps we take to overcoming those adversities to embrace your greatness. Healing is forever time to be free ReNana Your HeArt with me!
(509) 567-2573 View (509) 567-2573
Photo of Karis Ward, MA, LMHC
Karis Ward
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99224  (Online Only)
Is anxiety or depression holding you back from meeting your goals? I believe individuals need to feel safe and heard in order to heal. My goal is to help you identify your wounds that continue to impact your life. I use an empathetic approach in my practice. No matter what stage of life you are in, it can be life-changing to have someone help you process your experiences and emotions. By processing these wounds, we can work together to establish a healthy sense of self-worth. Whether you are experiencing Grief, Loss of a relationship, Parenting issues, and or challenges in relationships, I would be honored to walk beside you.
Is anxiety or depression holding you back from meeting your goals? I believe individuals need to feel safe and heard in order to heal. My goal is to help you identify your wounds that continue to impact your life. I use an empathetic approach in my practice. No matter what stage of life you are in, it can be life-changing to have someone help you process your experiences and emotions. By processing these wounds, we can work together to establish a healthy sense of self-worth. Whether you are experiencing Grief, Loss of a relationship, Parenting issues, and or challenges in relationships, I would be honored to walk beside you.
(509) 283-7754 View (509) 283-7754
Photo of Bevie LaBrie, ATR-BC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bevie LaBrie
Marriage & Family Therapist, ATR-BC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201
Waitlist for new clients
I help people access the intelligence of their right brain; unlock creativity, slow down reactions, process grief and trauma, resolve conflicts, reduce stress, increase self-identity and strengthen community through individual sessions, retreats and workshops.
Are you looking for a therapist that thinks outside of the box? Are you struggling in an area of life? I combine art and other creative therapies with talk therapy to enhance the therapeutic process. My expertise lies in working with trauma, creative blocks, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, stress resilience and life transitions. My passion is helping others discover the depths of their strength and resiliency. My love for people, creativity and nature greatly influence my approach to counseling.
I help people access the intelligence of their right brain; unlock creativity, slow down reactions, process grief and trauma, resolve conflicts, reduce stress, increase self-identity and strengthen community through individual sessions, retreats and workshops.
Are you looking for a therapist that thinks outside of the box? Are you struggling in an area of life? I combine art and other creative therapies with talk therapy to enhance the therapeutic process. My expertise lies in working with trauma, creative blocks, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, stress resilience and life transitions. My passion is helping others discover the depths of their strength and resiliency. My love for people, creativity and nature greatly influence my approach to counseling.
(509) 822-2918 View (509) 822-2918
Photo of Suzanne Apelskog And Associates Of Life's Learning, MS, LMHC, , PLLC, Counselor
Suzanne Apelskog And Associates Of Life's Learning
Counselor, MS, LMHC, PLLC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99205
At my very core, I enjoy and cherish people and your stories. That I get to be a part of your process of discovery, growth or healing is a great honor and one that I do not take lightly. I believe in the ability for people to heal, grow and change and draw from a holistic, person-centered approach. I specialize in assisting you through life's adjustments; meaning making, loss, grief and mourning; counseling with counselors; trauma, relationship challenges and struggles with a variety of mental health needs (e.g., anxiety, depression, anger, etc.). I believe in walking alongside you with your healing.
At my very core, I enjoy and cherish people and your stories. That I get to be a part of your process of discovery, growth or healing is a great honor and one that I do not take lightly. I believe in the ability for people to heal, grow and change and draw from a holistic, person-centered approach. I specialize in assisting you through life's adjustments; meaning making, loss, grief and mourning; counseling with counselors; trauma, relationship challenges and struggles with a variety of mental health needs (e.g., anxiety, depression, anger, etc.). I believe in walking alongside you with your healing.
(509) 563-7297 View (509) 563-7297
Photo of Marilyn L Sears, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marilyn L Sears
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99208
Hello, my name is Marilyn Sears. You may be looking to discover new strategies for coping and succeeding in your life's challenges. If so, I would like to work with you to discuss issues that are important to you. My areas of specialization include working with relationship issues, couples therapy, grief/loss, self-esteem, depression, and anxiety. I may ask questions, clarify feelings, offer reassurance, interpret, and identify themes. Many people feel strengthened and supported in the process of counseling. If you would like to meet with me or have questions, please contact me.
Hello, my name is Marilyn Sears. You may be looking to discover new strategies for coping and succeeding in your life's challenges. If so, I would like to work with you to discuss issues that are important to you. My areas of specialization include working with relationship issues, couples therapy, grief/loss, self-esteem, depression, and anxiety. I may ask questions, clarify feelings, offer reassurance, interpret, and identify themes. Many people feel strengthened and supported in the process of counseling. If you would like to meet with me or have questions, please contact me.
(509) 316-0011 View (509) 316-0011
Photo of Meghan Davidson, MSSW, LICSW, CMHS, VSW-CP, GCTC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meghan Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LICSW, CMHS, VSW-CP, GCTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99205  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people who have experienced abuse, neglect, and trauma as well as grief and loss.
Sometimes life just really sucks and we need someone to help support, empower, and encourage us through the hard times. I would love to be that person for you. I focus on coming from a trauma informed, strengths based lens that keeps you in control as we partner together to figure out what works best for you.
I specialize in working with people who have experienced abuse, neglect, and trauma as well as grief and loss.
Sometimes life just really sucks and we need someone to help support, empower, and encourage us through the hard times. I would love to be that person for you. I focus on coming from a trauma informed, strengths based lens that keeps you in control as we partner together to figure out what works best for you.
(509) 740-0987 View (509) 740-0987
Photo of Layne E Pavey, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Layne E Pavey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99205
Hello, I'm Layne. I know it can be hard reaching out. There is always the fear that you might be judged or made to feel like there is something wrong with you. Not in my book! I will provide you with an open and caring therapeutic relationship that will help you face your biggest fears and challenges. Has trauma held you back from building healthy relationships? Has anxiety been a barrier to achieving your hopes and dreams? Has grief kept you stuck for years? There is hope. You won't have to miss out on life any longer! Please reach out and we can talk more about any questions you might have about EMDR or the therapeutic process.
Hello, I'm Layne. I know it can be hard reaching out. There is always the fear that you might be judged or made to feel like there is something wrong with you. Not in my book! I will provide you with an open and caring therapeutic relationship that will help you face your biggest fears and challenges. Has trauma held you back from building healthy relationships? Has anxiety been a barrier to achieving your hopes and dreams? Has grief kept you stuck for years? There is hope. You won't have to miss out on life any longer! Please reach out and we can talk more about any questions you might have about EMDR or the therapeutic process.
(509) 215-2733 View (509) 215-2733
Photo of Lindsey J Pepperoni, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lindsey J Pepperoni
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201
I am particularly passionate about working with individuals and couples who are struggling with anxiety, depression, identity or other lifecycle transitions, issues around sexuality, faith transitions, and/or grief and loss, among other issues.
I am here for anyone who is struggling, looking for support, help, or personal exploration. My goal is to provide a safe space and an outside perspective with which to collaborate and problem solve. I identify as queer, and I am LGBTQIA+ affirming. I work with people of all identities, genders, and relationship configurations. I recognize that each client is unique and therefore approach my work using a client-centered, strengths-based model to personalize treatment. I have the added benefit of having a sex therapy certified supervisor, which makes me a great fit for clients who wish to explore intimacy issues and sexual shame.
I am particularly passionate about working with individuals and couples who are struggling with anxiety, depression, identity or other lifecycle transitions, issues around sexuality, faith transitions, and/or grief and loss, among other issues.
I am here for anyone who is struggling, looking for support, help, or personal exploration. My goal is to provide a safe space and an outside perspective with which to collaborate and problem solve. I identify as queer, and I am LGBTQIA+ affirming. I work with people of all identities, genders, and relationship configurations. I recognize that each client is unique and therefore approach my work using a client-centered, strengths-based model to personalize treatment. I have the added benefit of having a sex therapy certified supervisor, which makes me a great fit for clients who wish to explore intimacy issues and sexual shame.
(206) 207-7242 View (206) 207-7242
Photo of Mary M Murphy, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Mary M Murphy
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99207
Depression, trauma, abuse, anger, grief, anxiety, addictions, and domestic violence can be turned around, so that we can move ahead into a much more peaceful life.
I have spent 15 years helping people move from what I call "Surviving to Thriving". I can help you, your relationship, or your family move there also. This process; dealing with the fears, the feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, the anger as we sometimes are forced into life changes we have no control over can, quite simply, overwhelm us. A deeply caring therapist, with the knowledge, experience, patience, and courage to help us along our life's path can be extraordinarily helpful.
Depression, trauma, abuse, anger, grief, anxiety, addictions, and domestic violence can be turned around, so that we can move ahead into a much more peaceful life.
I have spent 15 years helping people move from what I call "Surviving to Thriving". I can help you, your relationship, or your family move there also. This process; dealing with the fears, the feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, the anger as we sometimes are forced into life changes we have no control over can, quite simply, overwhelm us. A deeply caring therapist, with the knowledge, experience, patience, and courage to help us along our life's path can be extraordinarily helpful.
(509) 730-5997 View (509) 730-5997
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.