Grief Therapists in Urbandale, IA

Photo of Kristin Rodenberg, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Rodenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
Grief. We all have it, and no one wants to talk about it. Fortunately, you have found my page and I want to talk about it. From child loss to infertility, from boundaries to someone's death; grief and loss are abundant. Through extensive trainings and a willingness to sit and listen to the hard things I am happy to walk this lonely journey with you. Maybe then it won't be so lonely.
Grief. We all have it, and no one wants to talk about it. Fortunately, you have found my page and I want to talk about it. From child loss to infertility, from boundaries to someone's death; grief and loss are abundant. Through extensive trainings and a willingness to sit and listen to the hard things I am happy to walk this lonely journey with you. Maybe then it won't be so lonely.
(515) 373-4983 View (515) 373-4983
Photo of Alicia Peña, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Alicia Peña
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
Welcome! Life is a continual journey of healing the mind, body, and spirit. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I provide individual and family therapy. My passion is working with people from multi-cultural populations who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief/ loss, anger, irritability, stress, and substance abuse. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant, (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and offer Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy,
Welcome! Life is a continual journey of healing the mind, body, and spirit. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I provide individual and family therapy. My passion is working with people from multi-cultural populations who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief/ loss, anger, irritability, stress, and substance abuse. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant, (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and offer Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy,
(515) 608-8892 View (515) 608-8892
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
Urbandale, IA 50322
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 Kathy Fox, MA, t-MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathy Fox
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, t-MFT
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322  (Online Only)
I practice therapy that is both structured and integrative, using approaches and interventions backed by research and in which I have additional training, including Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Discernment Counseling for couples on the brink, Complicated Grief, Relational Life Therapy, IFS-informed parts therapy, and Trauma-informed approaches).
Currently accepting new clients via Telehealth. I specialize in helping individuals and couples who seek to enhance, repair or save a relationship, prepare for marriage, discern the best path for a relationship in crisis, end a relationship (if decided), recover from a relationship that has ended, or grieve the passing of a partner or other loved one.
I practice therapy that is both structured and integrative, using approaches and interventions backed by research and in which I have additional training, including Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Discernment Counseling for couples on the brink, Complicated Grief, Relational Life Therapy, IFS-informed parts therapy, and Trauma-informed approaches).
Currently accepting new clients via Telehealth. I specialize in helping individuals and couples who seek to enhance, repair or save a relationship, prepare for marriage, discern the best path for a relationship in crisis, end a relationship (if decided), recover from a relationship that has ended, or grieve the passing of a partner or other loved one.
(319) 727-1697 View (319) 727-1697
Photo of Richelle Massengale, MS, LPC, Counselor
Richelle Massengale
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322  (Online Only)
Struggling with grief, caring for aging parents, compassion fatigue, chronic illness or infertility? If so, you're in the right place. These are some of the most difficult things we can experience in our lifetime. These situations also cause anxiety and depression, financial stress, and guilt and shame. Whatever it is that you're feeling is a natural response to what you are going through. Counseling provides a way for you to heal without the fear of answering unwelcome questions or hearing hurtful advice. I've been there and can offer support while helping you navigate this difficult journey.
Struggling with grief, caring for aging parents, compassion fatigue, chronic illness or infertility? If so, you're in the right place. These are some of the most difficult things we can experience in our lifetime. These situations also cause anxiety and depression, financial stress, and guilt and shame. Whatever it is that you're feeling is a natural response to what you are going through. Counseling provides a way for you to heal without the fear of answering unwelcome questions or hearing hurtful advice. I've been there and can offer support while helping you navigate this difficult journey.
(515) 329-7107 View (515) 329-7107
Photo of Monique And Rick Elgersma - Real Connections Counseling, A Cotherapy company!, LMFT, M Litt, Marriage & Family Therapist
Real Connections Counseling, A Cotherapy company!
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, M Litt
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
Imagine the impact of two experts preparing you for life outside of grief, pain, horrible fights, or loneliness.
Instead of staring at a therapist staring back at you, you join up with a TEAM in a place where you belong, in a way where we all show up for practice together. Together we create your dream relationship. You work hard ... blood, sweat, and tears kind of hard sometimes. At the end of it you'll have the kind of love you may never have dreamed you could have. This isn't just therapy, it's co-therapy. A philosophy that empowers couples like you to discover the magic of "us." We're your team, and your needs come first. Sessions START at 85 mins. The RCC-System means you succeed, all outside the constraints and limitations of insurance.
Imagine the impact of two experts preparing you for life outside of grief, pain, horrible fights, or loneliness.
Instead of staring at a therapist staring back at you, you join up with a TEAM in a place where you belong, in a way where we all show up for practice together. Together we create your dream relationship. You work hard ... blood, sweat, and tears kind of hard sometimes. At the end of it you'll have the kind of love you may never have dreamed you could have. This isn't just therapy, it's co-therapy. A philosophy that empowers couples like you to discover the magic of "us." We're your team, and your needs come first. Sessions START at 85 mins. The RCC-System means you succeed, all outside the constraints and limitations of insurance.
(515) 346-6075 View (515) 346-6075
Photo of Karla Reznicek, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karla Reznicek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
I also have special interest in the areas of grief, relationship issues, and life transitions.
I consider it a sincere privilege to walk along with a client during their life's journey. I utilize a client centered holistic approach and consider the client the expert of their experience. Together we process those concerns which are leading the client to therapy but you, the client, find the solutions and conclusions that work best for you. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy, which includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, trauma informed care, and mindfulness based strategies.
I also have special interest in the areas of grief, relationship issues, and life transitions.
I consider it a sincere privilege to walk along with a client during their life's journey. I utilize a client centered holistic approach and consider the client the expert of their experience. Together we process those concerns which are leading the client to therapy but you, the client, find the solutions and conclusions that work best for you. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy, which includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, trauma informed care, and mindfulness based strategies.
(507) 509-0401 View (507) 509-0401
Photo of Nicole Taylor-Irwin, PhD, Psychologist
Nicole Taylor-Irwin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
My specialty is working with individuals on the parenthood journey (including infertility, loss, pregnancy, and postpartum) or facing health challenges (like cancer).
Are you looking for a warm and supportive therapist who will also challenge and empower you? I believe you have many answers within you but I look forward to collaborating with you to facilitate growth. I will create a space for you to feel safe exploring yourself and your needs so you can achieve a greater level of meaning, purpose, and wellness in your life. I embrace feminist and anti-racist values and work with clients from all genders, sexual orientations, races, and backgrounds.
My specialty is working with individuals on the parenthood journey (including infertility, loss, pregnancy, and postpartum) or facing health challenges (like cancer).
Are you looking for a warm and supportive therapist who will also challenge and empower you? I believe you have many answers within you but I look forward to collaborating with you to facilitate growth. I will create a space for you to feel safe exploring yourself and your needs so you can achieve a greater level of meaning, purpose, and wellness in your life. I embrace feminist and anti-racist values and work with clients from all genders, sexual orientations, races, and backgrounds.
(515) 512-4985 View (515) 512-4985
Photo of Meagan Froehlich, tLMFT, CCLS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meagan Froehlich
Marriage & Family Therapist, tLMFT, CCLS
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
I also have a special interest in supporting those facing the struggles of grief and loss.
I look forward to helping clients meet their desired goals and achieve personal growth. I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa in 2001 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Family Services. I then attended Iowa State University and received a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. For fourteen years, I worked as a Certified Child Life Specialist, supporting patients and families who were experiencing acute or chronic illness. I also worked in the Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) and maternity units.
I also have a special interest in supporting those facing the struggles of grief and loss.
I look forward to helping clients meet their desired goals and achieve personal growth. I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa in 2001 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Family Services. I then attended Iowa State University and received a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. For fourteen years, I worked as a Certified Child Life Specialist, supporting patients and families who were experiencing acute or chronic illness. I also worked in the Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) and maternity units.
(515) 518-8393 View (515) 518-8393
Photo of Shana Boger, MS, LMFT, CADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shana Boger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
Hi there! I'm an LMFT & CADC. I have a variety of clinical interests and experience including individual/family recovery from addiction, relationship issues, anxiety, depression/mood disorders, emotional intensity, grief and loss, and life transitions. I’m passionate about helping clients explore and achieve their balance within to support their growth and fulfillment. I'm intentional in being genuine and show up as a human first in the therapy room, and work alongside my clients to support them in moving toward healthy relationships and fulfilling lives through a strengths-based approach.
Hi there! I'm an LMFT & CADC. I have a variety of clinical interests and experience including individual/family recovery from addiction, relationship issues, anxiety, depression/mood disorders, emotional intensity, grief and loss, and life transitions. I’m passionate about helping clients explore and achieve their balance within to support their growth and fulfillment. I'm intentional in being genuine and show up as a human first in the therapy room, and work alongside my clients to support them in moving toward healthy relationships and fulfilling lives through a strengths-based approach.
(515) 949-4533 View (515) 949-4533
Photo of Stephanie Barrett, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Barrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322  (Online Only)
I have experience in the following areas: depression, anxiety, grief/ loss, end-of-life issues, geriatric/aging, women's issues, mood disorders.
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in the state of Iowa. I graduated from Simpson College in 2004 with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and St. Ambrose University in 2006 with a Master's degree in Social Work (MSW). I have been working with clients in health care and mental health settings since 2006. As a therapist, I strive to make services accessbile and welcoming. Therapy is a place to feel accepted and free from judgment. In this fast-paced world, we all deserve a space to be supported as our authentic selves.
I have experience in the following areas: depression, anxiety, grief/ loss, end-of-life issues, geriatric/aging, women's issues, mood disorders.
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in the state of Iowa. I graduated from Simpson College in 2004 with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and St. Ambrose University in 2006 with a Master's degree in Social Work (MSW). I have been working with clients in health care and mental health settings since 2006. As a therapist, I strive to make services accessbile and welcoming. Therapy is a place to feel accepted and free from judgment. In this fast-paced world, we all deserve a space to be supported as our authentic selves.
(515) 517-2527 View (515) 517-2527
Photo of Emily Cave, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Cave
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
Whether you’re in the thick of transitioning into adolescence, adulthood, or motherhood… and/or you have been faced with a traumatic experience, infertility, pregnancy loss, a NICU stay, and/or having a medically complex baby.
Do you feel like you have to put on a mask when you’re around others, to appear like you have it all together and all figured out… to appear like high school, college, or motherhood is a breeze for you? Are you constantly putting on a smile instead of showing others how you truly feel? Do you struggle to answer the question “how are you?” because you aren’t if sure the person asking can handle the real answer? Well, every single time you enter my office (in person or virtually), you can take off that mask and show up how you really are. Life can be so incredibly difficult, and you don’t have to do it alone or hiding behind a mask.
Whether you’re in the thick of transitioning into adolescence, adulthood, or motherhood… and/or you have been faced with a traumatic experience, infertility, pregnancy loss, a NICU stay, and/or having a medically complex baby.
Do you feel like you have to put on a mask when you’re around others, to appear like you have it all together and all figured out… to appear like high school, college, or motherhood is a breeze for you? Are you constantly putting on a smile instead of showing others how you truly feel? Do you struggle to answer the question “how are you?” because you aren’t if sure the person asking can handle the real answer? Well, every single time you enter my office (in person or virtually), you can take off that mask and show up how you really are. Life can be so incredibly difficult, and you don’t have to do it alone or hiding behind a mask.
(515) 726-4536 View (515) 726-4536
Photo of Ellie Van Dam, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellie Van Dam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
Waitlist for new clients
I consider myself to be an existential therapist and believe that through suffering sometimes we find purpose and meaning in life. None of us are above suffering. Everyone will experience trauma or loss at some point in life and deserve a safe place to work through those experiences. I know what it is to suffer and have personal and professional experience with trauma, domestic violence, and substance use issues. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most important component of effective therapy and place value on providing a non-judgmental, peaceful, safe space to heal.
I consider myself to be an existential therapist and believe that through suffering sometimes we find purpose and meaning in life. None of us are above suffering. Everyone will experience trauma or loss at some point in life and deserve a safe place to work through those experiences. I know what it is to suffer and have personal and professional experience with trauma, domestic violence, and substance use issues. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most important component of effective therapy and place value on providing a non-judgmental, peaceful, safe space to heal.
(515) 446-7284 View (515) 446-7284
Photo of Tiffany Bandow, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Bandow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
I work with individuals as they navigate this crazy beautiful thing called life! I see many clients dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, addiction, etc.
I am grateful for the opportunity to be present with others as they journey towards a greater place of peace and wellness. I truly believe that YOU are the expert on your life and I am simply available to offer insight, connection and genuine support. It is my honor to be a part of your journey!
I work with individuals as they navigate this crazy beautiful thing called life! I see many clients dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, addiction, etc.
I am grateful for the opportunity to be present with others as they journey towards a greater place of peace and wellness. I truly believe that YOU are the expert on your life and I am simply available to offer insight, connection and genuine support. It is my honor to be a part of your journey!
(515) 604-8334 View (515) 604-8334
Photo of Jacki King, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacki King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
I specialize in adults 18 and older and have a professional history of over six years working with those who have experienced grief and loss.
I am a Mental Health Provider accepting new clients in person or Telehealth. I greatly enjoy working with those who want to work on themselves. My experience in Hospice has allowed me to take a wholistic and person-centered approach to grief and loss. I have worked with many individuals and the challenges that naturally come with adulthood such as anxiety, depression, and self-doubt.
I specialize in adults 18 and older and have a professional history of over six years working with those who have experienced grief and loss.
I am a Mental Health Provider accepting new clients in person or Telehealth. I greatly enjoy working with those who want to work on themselves. My experience in Hospice has allowed me to take a wholistic and person-centered approach to grief and loss. I have worked with many individuals and the challenges that naturally come with adulthood such as anxiety, depression, and self-doubt.
(515) 579-5097 View (515) 579-5097
Photo of Sheryl Dawn Frye, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheryl Dawn Frye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
I am a licensed independent social worker who works with adults and seniors. I have two decades experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, school/work related challenges, LGBTQ issues and disability concerns. I have experience working with grief and loss as well as life transitions. My focus is bringing a sense of balance and health into my client's lives.
I am a licensed independent social worker who works with adults and seniors. I have two decades experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, school/work related challenges, LGBTQ issues and disability concerns. I have experience working with grief and loss as well as life transitions. My focus is bringing a sense of balance and health into my client's lives.
(630) 313-2138 View (630) 313-2138
Photo of Cora Ritter, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cora Ritter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
I also provide brief counseling to support couples for these issues: Communication & Conflict Containment, Emotional Connection, Trust, & Intimacy, Discernment for Pre-Separation, Parenting & Co-Parenting Issues, Pre-marital & Cohabitation Concerns, Grief, Trauma, & Mental Health Concerns.
Healing is painful, it's going to hurt, and that's the work, but you don't have to do it alone! Whether it's individual or couple's work, I appreciate that you are taking the time to consider to engage in therapy to improve your well-being. For individuals, things we are going to explore to help you heal: your nervous system’s response to stress & safety, your life’s roadmap (where you came from), your life’s compass (where you are now), the motivation continuum (where you are going), your strengths, resources, & self-care skills.
I also provide brief counseling to support couples for these issues: Communication & Conflict Containment, Emotional Connection, Trust, & Intimacy, Discernment for Pre-Separation, Parenting & Co-Parenting Issues, Pre-marital & Cohabitation Concerns, Grief, Trauma, & Mental Health Concerns.
Healing is painful, it's going to hurt, and that's the work, but you don't have to do it alone! Whether it's individual or couple's work, I appreciate that you are taking the time to consider to engage in therapy to improve your well-being. For individuals, things we are going to explore to help you heal: your nervous system’s response to stress & safety, your life’s roadmap (where you came from), your life’s compass (where you are now), the motivation continuum (where you are going), your strengths, resources, & self-care skills.
(515) 654-5372 View (515) 654-5372
Photo of Amy Duede, PsyD, Psychologist
Amy Duede
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
Mental health begins in childhood and lays the foundation for lifelong well-being. If you suspect your child or teen is struggling with their mental health, I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the unique and complex developmental needs of youth and young adults, particularly support with anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, trauma, grief, ADHD, social difficulties, and family relationships. I practice from an integrative framework that utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, play therapy techniques, and other expressive modalities to best meet an individual and family's unique needs.
Mental health begins in childhood and lays the foundation for lifelong well-being. If you suspect your child or teen is struggling with their mental health, I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the unique and complex developmental needs of youth and young adults, particularly support with anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, trauma, grief, ADHD, social difficulties, and family relationships. I practice from an integrative framework that utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, play therapy techniques, and other expressive modalities to best meet an individual and family's unique needs.
(515) 854-3778 View (515) 854-3778
Photo of Rebecca O'Connell, MA, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca O'Connell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
I work with issues including, but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Self-Esteem, Co-Dependency, Couple's Counseling, Pre-Marital Counseling, Relationship Issues, Christian Counseling & Spiritual Issues, Grief, Women's Issues,.
Immediate and Early Evening Appointments Available. I view therapy as a journey. The path on this journey of life is twisting and winding with many detours, and it can be difficult to navigate on our own. The therapy hour is time carved out just for the client; a safe place with no shame, where people can give voice to their stories. It is my privilege to come alongside people on this journey to wholeness.
I work with issues including, but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Self-Esteem, Co-Dependency, Couple's Counseling, Pre-Marital Counseling, Relationship Issues, Christian Counseling & Spiritual Issues, Grief, Women's Issues,.
Immediate and Early Evening Appointments Available. I view therapy as a journey. The path on this journey of life is twisting and winding with many detours, and it can be difficult to navigate on our own. The therapy hour is time carved out just for the client; a safe place with no shame, where people can give voice to their stories. It is my privilege to come alongside people on this journey to wholeness.
(515) 212-7667 View (515) 212-7667
Photo of Jennifer Haidar, LISW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Haidar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322  (Online Only)
The journey is very painful, and I'm honored to support families learning to cope with addiction, loss and stepfamily challenges.
I am honored to walk alongside teens, adults and couples as they learn to navigate and find strength and purpose in their own story. I believe therapy is a healing relationship, in which individuals are empowered to use their own gifts and resiliency to heal and grow. I utilize several trauma-informed therapeutic approaches including EMDR, CBT, and IFS. With teens, I enjoy using art and client-centered therapy.
The journey is very painful, and I'm honored to support families learning to cope with addiction, loss and stepfamily challenges.
I am honored to walk alongside teens, adults and couples as they learn to navigate and find strength and purpose in their own story. I believe therapy is a healing relationship, in which individuals are empowered to use their own gifts and resiliency to heal and grow. I utilize several trauma-informed therapeutic approaches including EMDR, CBT, and IFS. With teens, I enjoy using art and client-centered therapy.
(515) 206-8307 View (515) 206-8307
1
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.