Grief Therapists in Carol Stream, IL

Photo of Dr. Loren Williams, EdD, LCPC
Dr. Loren Williams
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor , EdD, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60188  (Online Only)
Whether you’re dealing with trauma, domestic violence, grief, or any other issue, I’m committed to providing a compassionate and safe space for you to explore your feelings and start your healing journey.
Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed by things that have happened to you? You're not alone—many people feel this way after experiencing trauma. I'm experienced therapist who helps individuals and couples deal with trauma, domestic violence, and grief. My goal is to offer a caring and supportive space where you can safely explore your feelings and start to heal. Whether you want to rebuild your life after trauma, break free from domestic violence, or find comfort during a time of deep grief.
Whether you’re dealing with trauma, domestic violence, grief, or any other issue, I’m committed to providing a compassionate and safe space for you to explore your feelings and start your healing journey.
Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed by things that have happened to you? You're not alone—many people feel this way after experiencing trauma. I'm experienced therapist who helps individuals and couples deal with trauma, domestic violence, and grief. My goal is to offer a caring and supportive space where you can safely explore your feelings and start to heal. Whether you want to rebuild your life after trauma, break free from domestic violence, or find comfort during a time of deep grief.
(224) 479-1493 View (224) 479-1493
Photo of Karen Lynn Kee, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Karen Lynn Kee
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Carol Stream, IL 60188
Many of us have or will experience emotional difficulties at some point in our lives. Sometimes it is not easy to overcome these roadblocks and we end up stuck in our emotional development. There are times in our lives when we need help to work through something, to regain our focus or to feel connected. I work with individuals, couples and families struggling with anxiety, trauma, grief & loss, and depression. I believe healing is possible.
Many of us have or will experience emotional difficulties at some point in our lives. Sometimes it is not easy to overcome these roadblocks and we end up stuck in our emotional development. There are times in our lives when we need help to work through something, to regain our focus or to feel connected. I work with individuals, couples and families struggling with anxiety, trauma, grief & loss, and depression. I believe healing is possible.
(630) 672-0625 View (630) 672-0625
Photo of Katie Valentino, LCPC, Counselor
Katie Valentino
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60116
I focus in treating issues of grief and loss, trauma history, first responders and adoptive families.
Seeking counseling is a very intimidating excercise, often involving a fear of giving up control. For me, counseling is about you regaining control. My goal is for you to feel successful, to be who you desire to be, or to have the relationships you desire. I am very directive when necessary, always with the goal of respect, honor, dignity, education, guidance, and help. I provide adolescent, adult, family and group services. Certified QuitSmart Smoking Cessation leader. Vivere Counseling, Live Your Life.
I focus in treating issues of grief and loss, trauma history, first responders and adoptive families.
Seeking counseling is a very intimidating excercise, often involving a fear of giving up control. For me, counseling is about you regaining control. My goal is for you to feel successful, to be who you desire to be, or to have the relationships you desire. I am very directive when necessary, always with the goal of respect, honor, dignity, education, guidance, and help. I provide adolescent, adult, family and group services. Certified QuitSmart Smoking Cessation leader. Vivere Counseling, Live Your Life.
(708) 406-2933 View (708) 406-2933
Photo of Angie Young, LCSW, EMDR, RYT200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angie Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, RYT200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60188
My experience working with individuals covers areas of disruption from complex trauma, sexual abuse, religious trauma, grief, attachment wounds, abandonment and shame.
I believe healing is possible through an invitation to connect with your body, emotions, and thoughts. To build understanding about how your experiences, relationships, and culture have impacted your life. I seek to be a companion in the process of sharing your personal story as you sift through the well of your entire lived experience to discover your authentic voice. Together, we will use body based interventions, emotionally focused work, and brain-based approaches like EMDR to reclaim the chapters of your life where difficult experiences stole your sense of who you are, and nurture growth, healing, and overcome loneliness.
My experience working with individuals covers areas of disruption from complex trauma, sexual abuse, religious trauma, grief, attachment wounds, abandonment and shame.
I believe healing is possible through an invitation to connect with your body, emotions, and thoughts. To build understanding about how your experiences, relationships, and culture have impacted your life. I seek to be a companion in the process of sharing your personal story as you sift through the well of your entire lived experience to discover your authentic voice. Together, we will use body based interventions, emotionally focused work, and brain-based approaches like EMDR to reclaim the chapters of your life where difficult experiences stole your sense of who you are, and nurture growth, healing, and overcome loneliness.
(630) 524-4362 View (630) 524-4362
Photo of Jodi Macaluso, MA, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Jodi Macaluso
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Carol Stream, IL 60188
I understand a wide range of therapy needs including depression, anxiety, life transitions, stress management, self-esteem and grief.
During my career as a therapist, I have gained the expertise in joining a person "where they are at" while developing an environment of safety, security and mutual respect. I have been told that my voice and manner quickly communicates friendliness and kindness, and that people overall, find that I am not at all intimidating and very easy to talk to. I provide an integrative supportive approach that allows for healing and growth. I combine Motivational Enhancement with Cognitive Behavioral interventions to assist in identifying the unique qualities and strengths of each person I work with to evoke change and emotional wellness.
I understand a wide range of therapy needs including depression, anxiety, life transitions, stress management, self-esteem and grief.
During my career as a therapist, I have gained the expertise in joining a person "where they are at" while developing an environment of safety, security and mutual respect. I have been told that my voice and manner quickly communicates friendliness and kindness, and that people overall, find that I am not at all intimidating and very easy to talk to. I provide an integrative supportive approach that allows for healing and growth. I combine Motivational Enhancement with Cognitive Behavioral interventions to assist in identifying the unique qualities and strengths of each person I work with to evoke change and emotional wellness.
(847) 906-2582 View (847) 906-2582
Photo of Anna Ciampanelli, PsyD, Psychologist
Anna Ciampanelli
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60188
Dr. Ciampanelli specializes in pediatric and adult neuropsychology and offers individual therapy and neuropsychological testing across the lifespan. She has therapeutic experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, perfectionism, executive dysfunction, school/work performance challenges, caregiver burden, aging, and chronic medical conditions, among other concerns. She aspires to promote a life of meaning and build upon your strengths and values. Dr. Ciampanelli offers tailored neuropsychological evaluations and treatment recommendations for an array of social-emotional and neurological concerns.
Dr. Ciampanelli specializes in pediatric and adult neuropsychology and offers individual therapy and neuropsychological testing across the lifespan. She has therapeutic experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, perfectionism, executive dysfunction, school/work performance challenges, caregiver burden, aging, and chronic medical conditions, among other concerns. She aspires to promote a life of meaning and build upon your strengths and values. Dr. Ciampanelli offers tailored neuropsychological evaluations and treatment recommendations for an array of social-emotional and neurological concerns.
(630) 757-8196 View (630) 757-8196
Photo of Thomas Young, MA, MS, LCPC, LMHC
Thomas Young
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60188  (Online Only)
I help people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, mood disorders, relationship problems, and major mental health issues.
Being honest and true to yourself takes a great deal of courage. You have the courage and hope to transform your life. I can help you in that journey. I provide counseling that can help improve who you are, and the life that you lead. We all need help finding the courage and compassion to face our personal challenges, so that we may nurture healthy connections with the people around us. It would be my honor and privileged to help you achieve your goals.
I help people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, mood disorders, relationship problems, and major mental health issues.
Being honest and true to yourself takes a great deal of courage. You have the courage and hope to transform your life. I can help you in that journey. I provide counseling that can help improve who you are, and the life that you lead. We all need help finding the courage and compassion to face our personal challenges, so that we may nurture healthy connections with the people around us. It would be my honor and privileged to help you achieve your goals.
(443) 995-5898 View (443) 995-5898
Photo of Joyce Babb, LCSW, BCD, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joyce Babb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, MSW
Verified Verified
Carol Stream, IL 60188
Change is possible. I can help. I offer exceptional and compassionate counseling services to help you to achieve your goals so that you can live your life and relationships more fully. I have extensive experience, both in the US and overseas, in working with individuals, couples, families, and groups to address a wide range of issues, including anxiety and panic disorders; depression; stress management; marital and family problems; parenting skills; attention deficit disorders; life transitions; grief and loss; women's issues; men's issues; substance abuse and addictions; co-dependency, family of origin, perfectionism, and shame issues and more. .
Change is possible. I can help. I offer exceptional and compassionate counseling services to help you to achieve your goals so that you can live your life and relationships more fully. I have extensive experience, both in the US and overseas, in working with individuals, couples, families, and groups to address a wide range of issues, including anxiety and panic disorders; depression; stress management; marital and family problems; parenting skills; attention deficit disorders; life transitions; grief and loss; women's issues; men's issues; substance abuse and addictions; co-dependency, family of origin, perfectionism, and shame issues and more. .
(630) 984-7627 View (630) 984-7627
Photo of Nancy Robin Krtek, ND, LCSW, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Robin Krtek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ND, LCSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Carol Stream, IL 60188
Therapeutic interventions include integrative approaches along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, Psycho-Education, as well as Eastern philosophical tenets, and EMDR. If you deal with Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Addiction issues, a Trauma history, Dissociative Disorders or Personality Disorders, you will receive competent, compassionate and empathic care. Treatment needs can be met through individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy and/or group therapy. Other issues that I can help you with are Eating Disorders, Weight management, Pain management/somatic issues. as well as Grief/ Loss issues. Check out my Facebook page "Nancy Krtek Mind/Body Practitioner."
Therapeutic interventions include integrative approaches along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, Psycho-Education, as well as Eastern philosophical tenets, and EMDR. If you deal with Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Addiction issues, a Trauma history, Dissociative Disorders or Personality Disorders, you will receive competent, compassionate and empathic care. Treatment needs can be met through individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy and/or group therapy. Other issues that I can help you with are Eating Disorders, Weight management, Pain management/somatic issues. as well as Grief/ Loss issues. Check out my Facebook page "Nancy Krtek Mind/Body Practitioner."
(630) 282-6959 View (630) 282-6959
Kairos Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carol Stream, IL 60125
Kairos specializes in areas of relationship conflict, marriage issues, divorce, child/adolescent problems, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bereavement and stress management.
Kairos Family Center is a private, not-for-profit agency dedicated to providing quality, affordable, family centered counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples and families. Our agency offers both short term and long term therapy in English and Spanish.
Kairos specializes in areas of relationship conflict, marriage issues, divorce, child/adolescent problems, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bereavement and stress management.
Kairos Family Center is a private, not-for-profit agency dedicated to providing quality, affordable, family centered counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples and families. Our agency offers both short term and long term therapy in English and Spanish.
(847) 984-3547 View (847) 984-3547
Photo of Colleen Koncilja, LCSW, CADC, ICGC-II, BACC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Koncilja
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, ICGC-II, BACC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60188
As a trauma & anxiety therapist I've helped adults for the past 30 years to: decrease anxiety and depression, heal from trauma and painful pasts, move through grief and mourning, create a full life despite chronic illness and/or chronic pain, improve relationships, change unhelpful behaviors, increase coping skills, and begin recovery from problem gambling.
Too often life brings us the unwanted, the unwelcomed, and the unexpected. These things are often deeply painful, cause us to struggle, increase our stress and overwhelm, and cause us to feel alone. If this is what you are experiencing, you don't have to be alone in it, - therapy can help. You deserve to be heard, cared for, and supported. Whether you are feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, being triggered by past trauma, or battling with chronic pain or illness, we can work together to untangle the things that hold you back, so you can create the life you want and deserve. You will be able to heal, grow, and thrive.
As a trauma & anxiety therapist I've helped adults for the past 30 years to: decrease anxiety and depression, heal from trauma and painful pasts, move through grief and mourning, create a full life despite chronic illness and/or chronic pain, improve relationships, change unhelpful behaviors, increase coping skills, and begin recovery from problem gambling.
Too often life brings us the unwanted, the unwelcomed, and the unexpected. These things are often deeply painful, cause us to struggle, increase our stress and overwhelm, and cause us to feel alone. If this is what you are experiencing, you don't have to be alone in it, - therapy can help. You deserve to be heard, cared for, and supported. Whether you are feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, being triggered by past trauma, or battling with chronic pain or illness, we can work together to untangle the things that hold you back, so you can create the life you want and deserve. You will be able to heal, grow, and thrive.
(224) 204-2507 View (224) 204-2507
Photo of Vanessa Houdek, PsyD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Vanessa Houdek
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Carol Stream, IL 60188  (Online Only)
I specialize as a pregnancy and postpartum mental health expert (fertility difficulties, pregnancy loss/infant loss, traumatic birth, coping with a NICU stay, anxiety/depression during pregnancy/postpartum period, adjustment to parenthood) but welcome clients outside of this population.
I specialize in "Moms," working mostly with women throughout different phases of motherhood including those trying to conceive, soon-to-be, new and seasoned mothers. Protecting and supporting mental health throughout each phase may look different for each client; however, my approach is always centered on creating a warm, supportive and relatable space. I focus on connection and find space for humor. I normalize so much of what women experience along this journey in becoming "Mom" but also provide real skills to use in daily life.
I specialize as a pregnancy and postpartum mental health expert (fertility difficulties, pregnancy loss/infant loss, traumatic birth, coping with a NICU stay, anxiety/depression during pregnancy/postpartum period, adjustment to parenthood) but welcome clients outside of this population.
I specialize in "Moms," working mostly with women throughout different phases of motherhood including those trying to conceive, soon-to-be, new and seasoned mothers. Protecting and supporting mental health throughout each phase may look different for each client; however, my approach is always centered on creating a warm, supportive and relatable space. I focus on connection and find space for humor. I normalize so much of what women experience along this journey in becoming "Mom" but also provide real skills to use in daily life.
(630) 216-8780 View (630) 216-8780
Photo of Tamika Manson, LCPC, Counselor
Tamika Manson
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Carol Stream, IL 60132
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, grief, and difficult life adjustments such as divorce or career changes.
I have worked with and assisted a wide range from children who experienced trauma to adults who are experiencing relationship difficulties and those addressing barriers that prevent reaching their life goals.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, grief, and difficult life adjustments such as divorce or career changes.
I have worked with and assisted a wide range from children who experienced trauma to adults who are experiencing relationship difficulties and those addressing barriers that prevent reaching their life goals.
(630) 426-7324 View (630) 426-7324
Photo of Arita Jeannine Sego, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arita Jeannine Sego
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60188
Some areas of concentration include: ADHD, anxiety, behavior management, chronic pain, coping skills, depression, grief/ loss, relationships, self-injury, self-esteem, sexual identity issues & transitions in life.
I believe life is a journey. It is full of ups & downs, good & hard things. How we deal & cope with these experiences is what can make the journey a positive challenge. My ultimate goals in providing therapy to clients are to assist them in their ability to cope & deal with what life throws them, the easy & the challenging; & assist them in their own personal growth along their journeys. I provide Ketamine and TMS assisted psychotherapy.
Some areas of concentration include: ADHD, anxiety, behavior management, chronic pain, coping skills, depression, grief/ loss, relationships, self-injury, self-esteem, sexual identity issues & transitions in life.
I believe life is a journey. It is full of ups & downs, good & hard things. How we deal & cope with these experiences is what can make the journey a positive challenge. My ultimate goals in providing therapy to clients are to assist them in their ability to cope & deal with what life throws them, the easy & the challenging; & assist them in their own personal growth along their journeys. I provide Ketamine and TMS assisted psychotherapy.
(331) 244-4887 View (331) 244-4887
Photo of Christine Reed, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carol Stream, IL 60188
With specialized training and a keen focus on adult ADHD, as well as extensive experience in addressing a range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, PTSD, trauma, sleep disorders, and grief, I am committed to providing tailored support that meets your individual needs.
Navigating life's challenges can be tough, but you don't have to face them alone. I specialize in supporting adults aged 18 to 100 on their journey towards personal growth and fulfillment. By offering a compassionate ear and a nonjudgmental approach, I strive to understand your unique struggles and help you achieve your goals. Drawing upon a foundation of empathy and support, I work collaboratively with you to uncover and address problematic patterns that may be holding you back. Together, we'll delve into your emotions, perceptions, and beliefs, empowering you to make positive changes in your life.
With specialized training and a keen focus on adult ADHD, as well as extensive experience in addressing a range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, PTSD, trauma, sleep disorders, and grief, I am committed to providing tailored support that meets your individual needs.
Navigating life's challenges can be tough, but you don't have to face them alone. I specialize in supporting adults aged 18 to 100 on their journey towards personal growth and fulfillment. By offering a compassionate ear and a nonjudgmental approach, I strive to understand your unique struggles and help you achieve your goals. Drawing upon a foundation of empathy and support, I work collaboratively with you to uncover and address problematic patterns that may be holding you back. Together, we'll delve into your emotions, perceptions, and beliefs, empowering you to make positive changes in your life.
(331) 241-6960 View (331) 241-6960
Photo of Patricia Mack, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Mack
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60188  (Online Only)
Are you a woman or couple struggling with anxiety or depression during or after pregnancy or coping with pregnancy/infant loss? I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space in which my clients can feel heard and develop coping strategies and perspective.
Are you struggling with important relationships? Are you feeling anxious or depressed and seeking ways to find peace and joy? Are you finding it difficult to cope with the challenges of day to day life, divorce, parenting issues or family conflict? Seeking guidance through therapy is a sign of strength and wisdom.
Are you a woman or couple struggling with anxiety or depression during or after pregnancy or coping with pregnancy/infant loss? I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space in which my clients can feel heard and develop coping strategies and perspective.
Are you struggling with important relationships? Are you feeling anxious or depressed and seeking ways to find peace and joy? Are you finding it difficult to cope with the challenges of day to day life, divorce, parenting issues or family conflict? Seeking guidance through therapy is a sign of strength and wisdom.
(630) 949-3860 View (630) 949-3860
Photo of Bridget Martinez, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Bridget Martinez
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Carol Stream, IL 60125
I help adults struggling with low motivation, stress management, anxiety, grief & loss, relationship challenges, military adjustments, personality disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder, complex PTSD, and trauma. I have over twelve years of clinical experience across a variety of settings including outpatient clinics, community behavioral health centers, emergency rooms, and inpatient psychiatric hospitals. My approach in therapy is creating a safe non-judgmental space for my clients to be heard and gain prospective on life challenges.
I help adults struggling with low motivation, stress management, anxiety, grief & loss, relationship challenges, military adjustments, personality disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder, complex PTSD, and trauma. I have over twelve years of clinical experience across a variety of settings including outpatient clinics, community behavioral health centers, emergency rooms, and inpatient psychiatric hospitals. My approach in therapy is creating a safe non-judgmental space for my clients to be heard and gain prospective on life challenges.
(630) 793-4544 View (630) 793-4544
Photo of Anna Coyne, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Anna Coyne
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Carol Stream, IL 60188  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families especially being there for them when life gets complicated. Unfortunately, many people learn to avoid all conflicts in their relationships and life stressors. This can lead to resentment and other mental health issues, which can cause more frequent and long-term problems. As a therapist, I’ve worked with many individuals, couples and families struggling with trauma, high conflict, divorce, and infidelity. I also enjoy working with clients who struggle with anxiety, OCD, and other issues.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families especially being there for them when life gets complicated. Unfortunately, many people learn to avoid all conflicts in their relationships and life stressors. This can lead to resentment and other mental health issues, which can cause more frequent and long-term problems. As a therapist, I’ve worked with many individuals, couples and families struggling with trauma, high conflict, divorce, and infidelity. I also enjoy working with clients who struggle with anxiety, OCD, and other issues.
(224) 701-3174 View (224) 701-3174
Photo of Donna Kilgallon, LCPC, Counselor
Donna Kilgallon
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60188
I have been working as a counselor in the mental health field for 30+ years. There have been many diverse opportunities where I've provided counseling and crisis stabilization for children, families, adolescents and young adults. My passion is working with children and adolescents. Also assisting families with building communication and empowering them as a whole to find happiness and wellbeing.
I have been working as a counselor in the mental health field for 30+ years. There have been many diverse opportunities where I've provided counseling and crisis stabilization for children, families, adolescents and young adults. My passion is working with children and adolescents. Also assisting families with building communication and empowering them as a whole to find happiness and wellbeing.
(708) 315-2546 View (708) 315-2546
Ginny Gemmell, LCSW, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carol Stream, IL 60188
I provide a warm, accepting environment, where my clients are able to feel safe to express themselves. I like to use humor, where appropriate, but I am very sensitive to the pain that my clients are experiencing. I believe that people can change and adjust at any point in life, when they are provided with good support.
I provide a warm, accepting environment, where my clients are able to feel safe to express themselves. I like to use humor, where appropriate, but I am very sensitive to the pain that my clients are experiencing. I believe that people can change and adjust at any point in life, when they are provided with good support.
(708) 406-5068 View (708) 406-5068
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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.