Photo of Hannah Vestal, LMHC, Counselor
Hannah Vestal
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Hannah and I appreciate you taking the time to find the right therapist for you. I often work with individuals who have experienced a major loss/change or are navigating instability in their mood and/or relationships and would like to feel lighter and more in control. Across our lifespan we develop ways of thinking and behaving that are self-protecting; but as we get older these same ways of thinking and behaving might become barriers to us leading the lives we want to live. I treat adolescents and adults with issues related to trauma, grief/ loss, mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, and relationships.
Hi, my name is Hannah and I appreciate you taking the time to find the right therapist for you. I often work with individuals who have experienced a major loss/change or are navigating instability in their mood and/or relationships and would like to feel lighter and more in control. Across our lifespan we develop ways of thinking and behaving that are self-protecting; but as we get older these same ways of thinking and behaving might become barriers to us leading the lives we want to live. I treat adolescents and adults with issues related to trauma, grief/ loss, mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, and relationships.
(515) 293-5856 View (515) 293-5856
Photo of Andrea 'andye' Lynn Jones, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea 'andye' Lynn Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
I enjoy seeing others reach their goals! I enjoy working with grief and loss issues, DHS involved cases, working with sexual issues and sexual abuse and doing couples therapy.
Sometimes life hurts and we find ourselves feeling alone. Things happen that we just can't explain. The world can sometimes seem cruel and we struggle to find our way. My passion is to empower others and to help them see their worth. I offer a caring, non-judgmental environment where you can feel safe to share what is in your heart. Take that first step with me and we can find the answers together. I am here when you are ready. Taking limited clients currently. I am no longer accepting active DHS cases.
I enjoy seeing others reach their goals! I enjoy working with grief and loss issues, DHS involved cases, working with sexual issues and sexual abuse and doing couples therapy.
Sometimes life hurts and we find ourselves feeling alone. Things happen that we just can't explain. The world can sometimes seem cruel and we struggle to find our way. My passion is to empower others and to help them see their worth. I offer a caring, non-judgmental environment where you can feel safe to share what is in your heart. Take that first step with me and we can find the answers together. I am here when you are ready. Taking limited clients currently. I am no longer accepting active DHS cases.
(515) 619-6898 View (515) 619-6898
Photo of Allison Robbins, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Robbins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
I have over 20 years of experience working with loss/ grief, trauma, relationship issues, adjustment issues, divorce, death/suicide, addictions ADHD/ADD, ODD/ conduct disorders, anxiety, depression, and those involved in the court systems.
Are you going through a major change? Do you remember being happy, but it was long ago? Does the anxiety you feel make you avoid doing the things that you used to enjoy? Change is difficult. Loss can be unbearable. These and so many other life challenges are the reasons why people come to therapy. Let's work together. I will help you unpack the load you are carrying through the use of different therapeutic techniques. Allow yourself to accept the help you deserve.
I have over 20 years of experience working with loss/ grief, trauma, relationship issues, adjustment issues, divorce, death/suicide, addictions ADHD/ADD, ODD/ conduct disorders, anxiety, depression, and those involved in the court systems.
Are you going through a major change? Do you remember being happy, but it was long ago? Does the anxiety you feel make you avoid doing the things that you used to enjoy? Change is difficult. Loss can be unbearable. These and so many other life challenges are the reasons why people come to therapy. Let's work together. I will help you unpack the load you are carrying through the use of different therapeutic techniques. Allow yourself to accept the help you deserve.
(515) 717-7681 View (515) 717-7681
Photo of Sara Coen, LMHC, EMDR, Counselor
Sara Coen
Counselor, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50315  (Online Only)
Whether you are looking for hope after loss or trauma, or are ready to move in a new direction, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals!.
As a relational-cultural therapist I view you as the expert in your life. In my work, I strive to build an authentic and healing relationship that fosters trust & growth. I believe the therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in successful therapy, and work to understand your life from a holistic perspective combining complimentary methods like relational therapy and EMDR. It is an honor for me to hold space for you as you process life's more challenging issues, and gain new perspective on what may be holding you back from a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Whether you are looking for hope after loss or trauma, or are ready to move in a new direction, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals!.
As a relational-cultural therapist I view you as the expert in your life. In my work, I strive to build an authentic and healing relationship that fosters trust & growth. I believe the therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in successful therapy, and work to understand your life from a holistic perspective combining complimentary methods like relational therapy and EMDR. It is an honor for me to hold space for you as you process life's more challenging issues, and gain new perspective on what may be holding you back from a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(515) 466-5880 View (515) 466-5880
Photo of Tricia R. Yavitz, LMHC, IADC, NCC, Counselor
Tricia R. Yavitz
Counselor, LMHC, IADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
Sometimes life can be difficult, and we need a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space to work through our struggles. I provide therapy services to individuals and couples who are struggling with a variety of life challenges. Some of the issues that I focus on with clients are addiction, grief and loss, trauma, sexuality, anxiety and depression. I believe in meeting clients where they are at in their journey and take a collaborative approach with folks to obtain their desired growth and change.
Sometimes life can be difficult, and we need a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space to work through our struggles. I provide therapy services to individuals and couples who are struggling with a variety of life challenges. Some of the issues that I focus on with clients are addiction, grief and loss, trauma, sexuality, anxiety and depression. I believe in meeting clients where they are at in their journey and take a collaborative approach with folks to obtain their desired growth and change.
(515) 827-2586 View (515) 827-2586
Photo of Blake Paxton, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Blake Paxton
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
Though my primary clinical expertise is in grief, I help clients with many other challenges.
Sometimes we might feel like nobody understands us or what we are going through. Life can present some major challenges, and it is hard to be trapped in what seems like an inescapable situation. I know what it is like to feel stuck. These types of situations are numerous: problems communicating with a partner, having low motivation in a job, missing a loved one that you have lost, paralyzing anxiety about making an important decision. Seeking the help of a mental health professional is the first step in getting unstuck. There is great courage in being able to ask for help. I am glad that you are embarking on this journey.
Though my primary clinical expertise is in grief, I help clients with many other challenges.
Sometimes we might feel like nobody understands us or what we are going through. Life can present some major challenges, and it is hard to be trapped in what seems like an inescapable situation. I know what it is like to feel stuck. These types of situations are numerous: problems communicating with a partner, having low motivation in a job, missing a loved one that you have lost, paralyzing anxiety about making an important decision. Seeking the help of a mental health professional is the first step in getting unstuck. There is great courage in being able to ask for help. I am glad that you are embarking on this journey.
(773) 249-9233 View (773) 249-9233
Photo of Emili Lair, LMHC, MA, MEd , Counselor
Emili Lair
Counselor, LMHC, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50301  (Online Only)
Emili has experience treating individuals struggling with anxiety disorders, all severities of depression, employment issues, chronic health issues, relationship distress, as well post-traumatic stress disorder. She is most passionate about helping individuals struggling to cope with the complexities of grief and loss of all forms, including those struggling to understand the most unimaginable tragedies in life. Emili has an interest providing couple’s counseling to partners wanting to improve communication, addressing ongoing conflict and/or betrayal in relationships, and experiencing new stages.
Emili has experience treating individuals struggling with anxiety disorders, all severities of depression, employment issues, chronic health issues, relationship distress, as well post-traumatic stress disorder. She is most passionate about helping individuals struggling to cope with the complexities of grief and loss of all forms, including those struggling to understand the most unimaginable tragedies in life. Emili has an interest providing couple’s counseling to partners wanting to improve communication, addressing ongoing conflict and/or betrayal in relationships, and experiencing new stages.
(712) 214-1187 View (712) 214-1187
Photo of Samantha Ness, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Ness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50317
Hi, I’m Sam! I’m a mental health provider who strives to create a safe and inclusive environment for all with consistent encouragement to come as you are. I work with individuals on grief and loss, and in addition to bereavement I work with adults, adolescents, children, and families on topics such as anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and family dynamics.
Hi, I’m Sam! I’m a mental health provider who strives to create a safe and inclusive environment for all with consistent encouragement to come as you are. I work with individuals on grief and loss, and in addition to bereavement I work with adults, adolescents, children, and families on topics such as anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and family dynamics.
(515) 517-2546 View (515) 517-2546
Photo of Laura Greiner - Grief Therapy of Iowa , MA, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Grief Therapy of Iowa
Counselor, MA, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50301
I provide non-judgmental, trauma-informed, and person-centered care while allowing grief to unfold at its own pace.
While I serve a variety of clients, my focus is grief and trauma. I help clients process their grief and help them navigate the journey of their loss. I use EMDR to help clients process trauma, whether it's grief-related or not.
I provide non-judgmental, trauma-informed, and person-centered care while allowing grief to unfold at its own pace.
While I serve a variety of clients, my focus is grief and trauma. I help clients process their grief and help them navigate the journey of their loss. I use EMDR to help clients process trauma, whether it's grief-related or not.
(319) 552-6335 View (319) 552-6335
Photo of LaJuana Walker-McGill, PhD, LMHC, NCC
LaJuana Walker-McGill
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50301  (Online Only)
These include: depression, stress, anxiety, anger management, grief & loss, family conflicts, work-related issues, interpersonal communication, etc.
Are you looking for ways to improve your quality of life? I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor that is dedicated to helping others create positive outcomes for their lives. Through 24 years of experience in private practice, I have demonstrated my dedication to the empowerment of individuals and couples. My goal is to provide a safe and comfortable environment that promotes positive outcomes for the clients that I serve. Virtual therapy appointments available for Iowa clients. Do you have Aetna, Cigna, or Optum (Optum EAP) insurance? Please click my website link to request a consultation.
These include: depression, stress, anxiety, anger management, grief & loss, family conflicts, work-related issues, interpersonal communication, etc.
Are you looking for ways to improve your quality of life? I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor that is dedicated to helping others create positive outcomes for their lives. Through 24 years of experience in private practice, I have demonstrated my dedication to the empowerment of individuals and couples. My goal is to provide a safe and comfortable environment that promotes positive outcomes for the clients that I serve. Virtual therapy appointments available for Iowa clients. Do you have Aetna, Cigna, or Optum (Optum EAP) insurance? Please click my website link to request a consultation.
(515) 500-5451 View (515) 500-5451
Photo of Amy Beth Lapham, LICSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Beth Lapham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
I work with individuals and families that are managing depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, parenting/safety concerns, sexual/physical abuse, grief/ loss, sexual issues/addictions and a number of adjustment issues including adoption and infertility.
I have been providing therapy for children (age 8 and up), adolescents and adults since 1995 in a variety of therapeutic settings. I have specialize in the area of trauma and other forms of abuse causing emotional distress/ negative impact on many levels of a person and their families life.
I work with individuals and families that are managing depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, parenting/safety concerns, sexual/physical abuse, grief/ loss, sexual issues/addictions and a number of adjustment issues including adoption and infertility.
I have been providing therapy for children (age 8 and up), adolescents and adults since 1995 in a variety of therapeutic settings. I have specialize in the area of trauma and other forms of abuse causing emotional distress/ negative impact on many levels of a person and their families life.
(218) 451-5035 View (218) 451-5035
Photo of Nicole Schrader, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Schrader
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
I work with clients navigating trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, single motherhood, eating disorders, communication skills and life transitions.
Thank you for taking the first step toward your healing! Walking with clients on the path toward better wellness is truly an honor. My core values are the love of learning, honesty, growth, kindness, and respect, which all show up in my work with clients. I pride myself in co-creating a safe space for clients to be fully seen, heard, and supported. My approach is inclusive, compassionate, direct, innovative, and non-judgmental, with some humor thrown in the mix. With over 16 years of experience in wellness, my philosophy integrates mindfulness, breathwork, and holistic practices.
I work with clients navigating trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, single motherhood, eating disorders, communication skills and life transitions.
Thank you for taking the first step toward your healing! Walking with clients on the path toward better wellness is truly an honor. My core values are the love of learning, honesty, growth, kindness, and respect, which all show up in my work with clients. I pride myself in co-creating a safe space for clients to be fully seen, heard, and supported. My approach is inclusive, compassionate, direct, innovative, and non-judgmental, with some humor thrown in the mix. With over 16 years of experience in wellness, my philosophy integrates mindfulness, breathwork, and holistic practices.
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Photo of Dr. Donald M. Kaesser, PC, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Donald M. Kaesser
Psychologist, PC, PhD
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use 35+ years of DIRECT clinical experience to help in addressing issues that have become obstacles in your life and help you meet your goals in the context of an honest, caring, and direct professional relationship. Individuals, couples/relationships, addictions/substance abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, aging, sexuality, and sexual 'orientation' issues, as well as family matters are among the range of aspects of people's lives with which I effectively work. Counseling may be brief/problem-oriented, or extended/depth psychotherapy depending on your needs. I enjoy individuals, couples, and seniors. Psychotherapy is my calling!
I use 35+ years of DIRECT clinical experience to help in addressing issues that have become obstacles in your life and help you meet your goals in the context of an honest, caring, and direct professional relationship. Individuals, couples/relationships, addictions/substance abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, aging, sexuality, and sexual 'orientation' issues, as well as family matters are among the range of aspects of people's lives with which I effectively work. Counseling may be brief/problem-oriented, or extended/depth psychotherapy depending on your needs. I enjoy individuals, couples, and seniors. Psychotherapy is my calling!
(515) 981-6980 View (515) 981-6980
Photo of Larry Vernoid Jackson, MSEd, LMHC, Counselor
Larry Vernoid Jackson
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50324  (Online Only)
The area's of research and treatment I find most interesting are with adults who may be living with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family issues, relationship difficulties, or substance abuse challenges.
Are you an adult who is living with anxiety or depression? Are you seeking to find common ground in your relationships? There is hope, there are solutions, you can make it through this, and I'm here to help. I help will help you: improve your communication skills, overcome any anger issues, overcome any trauma, overcome any unresolved family conflict, improve the connection and intimacy between you and your partner, and overcome any challenges related to substance abuse. Offering a wide range of support for adults, or families who have concerns about their emotional, behavioral, or adjustment problems.
The area's of research and treatment I find most interesting are with adults who may be living with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family issues, relationship difficulties, or substance abuse challenges.
Are you an adult who is living with anxiety or depression? Are you seeking to find common ground in your relationships? There is hope, there are solutions, you can make it through this, and I'm here to help. I help will help you: improve your communication skills, overcome any anger issues, overcome any trauma, overcome any unresolved family conflict, improve the connection and intimacy between you and your partner, and overcome any challenges related to substance abuse. Offering a wide range of support for adults, or families who have concerns about their emotional, behavioral, or adjustment problems.
(515) 852-5947 View (515) 852-5947
Photo of Heather Watson, MS, LMHC, IADC, NCC, Counselor
Heather Watson
Counselor, MS, LMHC, IADC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! My name is Heather Watson. I'm a licensed mental health therapist and I specialize in supporting individuals grappling with a spectrum of challenges, including addiction, behavioral and impulse control issues, and environmental obstacles that hinder human development and attachment. Now more than ever people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about overcoming difficult relationships, working through loss, finding our place in life, or moving through trauma. I am committed to fostering a safe and non judgmental space where you can explore your inner landscape and embark on a journey towards holistic wellness.
Hello! My name is Heather Watson. I'm a licensed mental health therapist and I specialize in supporting individuals grappling with a spectrum of challenges, including addiction, behavioral and impulse control issues, and environmental obstacles that hinder human development and attachment. Now more than ever people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about overcoming difficult relationships, working through loss, finding our place in life, or moving through trauma. I am committed to fostering a safe and non judgmental space where you can explore your inner landscape and embark on a journey towards holistic wellness.
(515) 631-5150 View (515) 631-5150
Photo of Pamela Jeanne Nelson-Grotrian - Aging Pathways, LLC, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aging Pathways, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310
Aging can bring a host of new issues such as feelings of isolation after retirement, grief and loss due to deaths of friends and loved ones, and finding new meaning in life after old roles have disappeared. New roles such as being a caregiver for your parents, spouse, partner, adult child, or grandchild can also add stress at this time. Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, addiction, and schizophrenia can continue and sometimes new mental health issues can arise. Health concerns and family dynamics can also make life challenging. Learning how to cope with these challenges and enjoy life is paramount.
Aging can bring a host of new issues such as feelings of isolation after retirement, grief and loss due to deaths of friends and loved ones, and finding new meaning in life after old roles have disappeared. New roles such as being a caregiver for your parents, spouse, partner, adult child, or grandchild can also add stress at this time. Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, addiction, and schizophrenia can continue and sometimes new mental health issues can arise. Health concerns and family dynamics can also make life challenging. Learning how to cope with these challenges and enjoy life is paramount.
(515) 800-4846 View (515) 800-4846
Photo of Jackie Dehner, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jackie Dehner
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50317
I have a vast amount of experience working with a number of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief.
It is truly an honor and a privilege to be able to share space with clients. Utilizing a collaborative approach to healing, I provide support and acceptance to all who cross the threshold of my office. Grounded in a Narrative theoretical orientation, I view clients as the experts of their own lives and I aim to help empower them while amplifying their voice. I believe every individual deserves to be heard and seen without judgement and I provide this to all clients through a strong therapeutic alliance and relational depth.
I have a vast amount of experience working with a number of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief.
It is truly an honor and a privilege to be able to share space with clients. Utilizing a collaborative approach to healing, I provide support and acceptance to all who cross the threshold of my office. Grounded in a Narrative theoretical orientation, I view clients as the experts of their own lives and I aim to help empower them while amplifying their voice. I believe every individual deserves to be heard and seen without judgement and I provide this to all clients through a strong therapeutic alliance and relational depth.
(515) 461-8010 View (515) 461-8010
Photo of Matthew Becker, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
I have worked with individuals and couples for eight years and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I enjoy helping adults learn new skills to deal with anxiety, codependency, romantic relationships, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, peer relationships, personal growth, low self-esteem, spirituality, stress, trauma & PTSD, and work-life balance.
I have worked with individuals and couples for eight years and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I enjoy helping adults learn new skills to deal with anxiety, codependency, romantic relationships, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, peer relationships, personal growth, low self-esteem, spirituality, stress, trauma & PTSD, and work-life balance.
(515) 827-2237 View (515) 827-2237
Photo of Angela Brannian, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Brannian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Waitlist for new clients
I help with relationship issues, divorce, remarriage, depression, anxiety, grief, transition, boundaries, & spirituality.
Life can be tough. Dreams die. Grief crushes us. Divorce, loss, trauma, abuse, depression, and anxiety happen to the best of us. Life has taught me how important it is to have a safe place to be heard, seen, and sometimes to receive a warm and well-timed wake up call. Email me if you'd like to read my welcome letter where I spell out my philosophy of practice, especially how I understand the balance of kindness and honesty to factor into successful therapy. If you want someone who goes beyond reflective listening, I might be your person.
I help with relationship issues, divorce, remarriage, depression, anxiety, grief, transition, boundaries, & spirituality.
Life can be tough. Dreams die. Grief crushes us. Divorce, loss, trauma, abuse, depression, and anxiety happen to the best of us. Life has taught me how important it is to have a safe place to be heard, seen, and sometimes to receive a warm and well-timed wake up call. Email me if you'd like to read my welcome letter where I spell out my philosophy of practice, especially how I understand the balance of kindness and honesty to factor into successful therapy. If you want someone who goes beyond reflective listening, I might be your person.
(515) 303-2681 View (515) 303-2681
Photo of Ben Lehl, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Ben Lehl
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50312
Other specialties include relationship problems, grief and loss, mood instability and drug/alcohol related issues.
Ben is a kind and energetic Licensed Mental Health Counselor! He believes kindness, care and compassion are the foundations for successful therapy. He also feels honest, direct and authentic teamwork adds to positive outcomes. Ben is an EMDR-trained provider who specializes in trauma work, relationship issues, emotional or mood problems including anxiety and depression. He spent several years working in a public/community mental health environment and believes care belongs to every person, and there can be room for laughter and joy in it as well! Ben is a lifelong musician and loves the rock n' roll.
Other specialties include relationship problems, grief and loss, mood instability and drug/alcohol related issues.
Ben is a kind and energetic Licensed Mental Health Counselor! He believes kindness, care and compassion are the foundations for successful therapy. He also feels honest, direct and authentic teamwork adds to positive outcomes. Ben is an EMDR-trained provider who specializes in trauma work, relationship issues, emotional or mood problems including anxiety and depression. He spent several years working in a public/community mental health environment and believes care belongs to every person, and there can be room for laughter and joy in it as well! Ben is a lifelong musician and loves the rock n' roll.
(515) 972-9484 View (515) 972-9484
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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.