Grief Therapists in Wheaton, IL

Photo of Karen Lynn Kee, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Karen Lynn Kee
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
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 Barbara Giordan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Giordan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60189
She also lectured in both teaching hospitals and community agencies on a variety of topics and is a subject matter expert on depression, anxiety, grief, and chronic illnesses.
Barbara Giordan, MSW, LCSW, is gentle, and compassionate. Her life is shaped by a passion to help others, and she is honored and privileged to listen to people's stories and come along side those who are coping with life's stressors and mental health issues. Barbara received an MSW from the University of Connecticut and a BA from Fairfield University. With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, Barbara worked in an inpatient hospital, a day school program, and several private practice settings, including a Christian counseling center.
She also lectured in both teaching hospitals and community agencies on a variety of topics and is a subject matter expert on depression, anxiety, grief, and chronic illnesses.
Barbara Giordan, MSW, LCSW, is gentle, and compassionate. Her life is shaped by a passion to help others, and she is honored and privileged to listen to people's stories and come along side those who are coping with life's stressors and mental health issues. Barbara received an MSW from the University of Connecticut and a BA from Fairfield University. With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, Barbara worked in an inpatient hospital, a day school program, and several private practice settings, including a Christian counseling center.
(331) 246-0400 View (331) 246-0400
Photo of Suzie Cuevas, LCPC, Counselor
Suzie Cuevas
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
Whether you are seeking guidance through anxiety, depression, grief/bereavement, career transitions, mood disorder, anger management, bipolar disorder, or other mental health challenges, my goal is to provide a warm and friendly environment where you can explore, heal, and embrace positive change.
As a dedicated psychotherapist with 21 years experience, I hold a firm belief that every client deserves to be seen as an individual, beyond the confines of their mental health condition. My approach to therapy is rooted in a commitment to holistic healing, tailored to the unique needs of each person I work with. Drawing upon a blend of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), I strive to create a customized experience that fosters personal growth and well-being.
Whether you are seeking guidance through anxiety, depression, grief/bereavement, career transitions, mood disorder, anger management, bipolar disorder, or other mental health challenges, my goal is to provide a warm and friendly environment where you can explore, heal, and embrace positive change.
As a dedicated psychotherapist with 21 years experience, I hold a firm belief that every client deserves to be seen as an individual, beyond the confines of their mental health condition. My approach to therapy is rooted in a commitment to holistic healing, tailored to the unique needs of each person I work with. Drawing upon a blend of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), I strive to create a customized experience that fosters personal growth and well-being.
(630) 937-3029 View (630) 937-3029
Photo of Alison Goshgarian, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alison Goshgarian
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
Maybe you’re needing to try and wade into the depths of self-work, the meaningful questions of existence, suffering or loss, who you are, or finding your place in this beautiful, painful world.
I believe therapy is a space where we explore the pain and the joy of human existence in a deep and meaningful way. My approach tends to be direct but I intentionally leave space for you to feel whatever comes up for you. My therapy room is a space where you and I get to delve into the realness of who you are without shame or judgment. It can be challenging to look at our internal world and acknowledge the reality of our lived experiences, but as someone who has done (and continues to do) that work, I can say this confidently: it is truly life changing to face yourself with courage.
Maybe you’re needing to try and wade into the depths of self-work, the meaningful questions of existence, suffering or loss, who you are, or finding your place in this beautiful, painful world.
I believe therapy is a space where we explore the pain and the joy of human existence in a deep and meaningful way. My approach tends to be direct but I intentionally leave space for you to feel whatever comes up for you. My therapy room is a space where you and I get to delve into the realness of who you are without shame or judgment. It can be challenging to look at our internal world and acknowledge the reality of our lived experiences, but as someone who has done (and continues to do) that work, I can say this confidently: it is truly life changing to face yourself with courage.
(630) 446-6297 View (630) 446-6297
Photo of Angie Young, LCSW, EMDR, RYT200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angie Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, RYT200
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
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 Tina Villis, MA, LCPC, PMH-C, Counselor
Tina Villis
Counselor, MA, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over fifteen years of experience in the mental health field. It is an honor to meet individuals from all walks of life, listen to their stories, and be a source of support for them during their most painful times. I work with individuals and couples who struggle with depression, anxiety, communication conflict, divorce, grief and loss, workplace stress, parenting, life transitions, infertility and adoption concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over fifteen years of experience in the mental health field. It is an honor to meet individuals from all walks of life, listen to their stories, and be a source of support for them during their most painful times. I work with individuals and couples who struggle with depression, anxiety, communication conflict, divorce, grief and loss, workplace stress, parenting, life transitions, infertility and adoption concerns.
(630) 526-7462 View (630) 526-7462
Photo of Lisa Consolino Hancock, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Consolino Hancock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by grief, anxious about life's next phase, or caught in the throes of family conflicts? You're not alone. Many people grapple with these emotions as they navigate significant life transitions, whether it's managing the stress of caregiving, adjusting to an empty nest that was once full, or coping with personal or familial illness. It's okay to seek help. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience, I have dedicated my career to supporting adults through various challenges. I believe in the resilience of the human spirit and in the ability to create growth and change.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by grief, anxious about life's next phase, or caught in the throes of family conflicts? You're not alone. Many people grapple with these emotions as they navigate significant life transitions, whether it's managing the stress of caregiving, adjusting to an empty nest that was once full, or coping with personal or familial illness. It's okay to seek help. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience, I have dedicated my career to supporting adults through various challenges. I believe in the resilience of the human spirit and in the ability to create growth and change.
(331) 267-6106 View (331) 267-6106
Photo of Amira Mina, MA, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amira Mina
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
A Warm Welcome! In life, we face relationship difficulties, seasons of adjustments, anxiety, and stress. We can struggle with the devastation of trauma, grief and loss, sexual problems, low self-esteem, depression, and addictions which impact every aspect of our lives. I believe that you don't have to be alone in your journey and that counseling can move individuals toward hope and healing while promoting growth, insights, tools, and purpose. I view counseling as a privilege, an honor, and a partnership between the individual and the therapist.
A Warm Welcome! In life, we face relationship difficulties, seasons of adjustments, anxiety, and stress. We can struggle with the devastation of trauma, grief and loss, sexual problems, low self-esteem, depression, and addictions which impact every aspect of our lives. I believe that you don't have to be alone in your journey and that counseling can move individuals toward hope and healing while promoting growth, insights, tools, and purpose. I view counseling as a privilege, an honor, and a partnership between the individual and the therapist.
(630) 473-9344 View (630) 473-9344
Photo of Katie L Cockrell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie L Cockrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
My primary areas of specialty include: grief, depression, anxiety, self-harm, substance/drug abuse, difficult life stressors/circumstances, relationship issues, and family issues.
Life can be incredibly challenging and scary at times. Sometimes it can feel as if you are walking through it alone, unsure of which direction to head. Therapy is a great place to find direction. In therapy, I believe in the value of a supportive, trusting relationship between myself and my clients. My goal is to make sure my clients feel safe, comfortable, and understood. I feel that therapy is a partnership between therapist and client, working together while navigating through difficulties and struggles. I take pride in developing a strong relationship with my clients so that they feel confident in their treatment journey.
My primary areas of specialty include: grief, depression, anxiety, self-harm, substance/drug abuse, difficult life stressors/circumstances, relationship issues, and family issues.
Life can be incredibly challenging and scary at times. Sometimes it can feel as if you are walking through it alone, unsure of which direction to head. Therapy is a great place to find direction. In therapy, I believe in the value of a supportive, trusting relationship between myself and my clients. My goal is to make sure my clients feel safe, comfortable, and understood. I feel that therapy is a partnership between therapist and client, working together while navigating through difficulties and struggles. I take pride in developing a strong relationship with my clients so that they feel confident in their treatment journey.
(630) 653-1717 View (630) 653-1717
Photo of Nathan Chase, LCPC-IL, LPCMHSP, CADC
Nathan Chase
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC-IL, LPCMHSP, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Waitlist for new clients
Specializes in cross-cultural adjustment issues, trauma/PTSD, physical & sexual abuse, healing from racial discrimination, chemical dependency and sexual addictions, young adults, first responders, helping professions, compassion fatigue, at-risk youth, attachment disorders, depression/bi-polar, grief & loss, life transitions, and spiritual development.
Nathan has a pursued a career of inviting others into safety, healing, and growth through counseling, chaplaincy, and mentoring. He is licensed in both Illinois (Telehealth) and Tennessee (in-person and telehealth). Experienced in working with multiple varieties of trauma, addiction, grief, and life transitions.
Specializes in cross-cultural adjustment issues, trauma/PTSD, physical & sexual abuse, healing from racial discrimination, chemical dependency and sexual addictions, young adults, first responders, helping professions, compassion fatigue, at-risk youth, attachment disorders, depression/bi-polar, grief & loss, life transitions, and spiritual development.
Nathan has a pursued a career of inviting others into safety, healing, and growth through counseling, chaplaincy, and mentoring. He is licensed in both Illinois (Telehealth) and Tennessee (in-person and telehealth). Experienced in working with multiple varieties of trauma, addiction, grief, and life transitions.
(423) 556-4742 View (423) 556-4742
Photo of Laura J Wolfe, MSEd, LCPC, Counselor
Laura J Wolfe
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
An Invitation to come as you are...Sometimes it's easy to forget or move away from who you are and your story. There are many life circumstances that may impact and influence how you feel about and perceive yourself as well as others. Shame, guilt, fear, anxiety, anger, disappointment, sadness, illness, grief, loss and broken relationships are a part of many peoples' life stories yet sometimes it can be difficult to accept those parts of one's journey. I invite you to come with all the pieces of who you are and share your story.
An Invitation to come as you are...Sometimes it's easy to forget or move away from who you are and your story. There are many life circumstances that may impact and influence how you feel about and perceive yourself as well as others. Shame, guilt, fear, anxiety, anger, disappointment, sadness, illness, grief, loss and broken relationships are a part of many peoples' life stories yet sometimes it can be difficult to accept those parts of one's journey. I invite you to come with all the pieces of who you are and share your story.
(708) 462-4967 View (708) 462-4967
Photo of Donna Loza - Donna Loza, Midwest Center for Hope & Healing, Ltd, LCPC, CADC, CODP I, Counselor
Donna Loza, Midwest Center for Hope & Healing, Ltd
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CODP I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Donna aligns closely with Adlerian, Cognitive behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral therapy. Adlerian theory has been shown in research for treating multiple mental health conditions: anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, personality disorders, schizophrenic, and substance abuse disorders. Adlerian theory suggests that people are driven by a need to feel that they matter, and they belong. How do you want to grow as a person, what are your dreams and goals? Donna is passionate about offering a non-judgmental, supportive environment to men, women, couples and children; ages four and up.
Donna aligns closely with Adlerian, Cognitive behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral therapy. Adlerian theory has been shown in research for treating multiple mental health conditions: anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, personality disorders, schizophrenic, and substance abuse disorders. Adlerian theory suggests that people are driven by a need to feel that they matter, and they belong. How do you want to grow as a person, what are your dreams and goals? Donna is passionate about offering a non-judgmental, supportive environment to men, women, couples and children; ages four and up.
(630) 748-7709 View (630) 748-7709
Photo of Kay La Jeunesse, MS, LCPC
Kay La Jeunesse
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
My most recent work as a Bereavement Counselor in a Hospice setting has allowed me to put into practice my many years of loss and grief training.
I offer a calming and gentle approach to clients that enhances their comfort levels and allows for open discussion of problem areas. Together, we investigate the factors that cause and contribute to their issues. Together, we investigate coping skills and factors that will diminish symptoms and work toward resolution of these life issues. In the words of one client: "If what I have to say doesn't upset you, then maybe it isn't as bad as I feared." Mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, relationship conflicts as well as loss and grief issues are among my treatment specialties.
My most recent work as a Bereavement Counselor in a Hospice setting has allowed me to put into practice my many years of loss and grief training.
I offer a calming and gentle approach to clients that enhances their comfort levels and allows for open discussion of problem areas. Together, we investigate the factors that cause and contribute to their issues. Together, we investigate coping skills and factors that will diminish symptoms and work toward resolution of these life issues. In the words of one client: "If what I have to say doesn't upset you, then maybe it isn't as bad as I feared." Mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, relationship conflicts as well as loss and grief issues are among my treatment specialties.
(630) 473-3970 View (630) 473-3970
Photo of Ronna Buckun, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ronna Buckun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Ronna Buckun is a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience working with aging adults, adults, and their families. Her approach to therapy balances her genuineness, humor, and compassion with the focus on problem-solving and client growth. She possesses a direct, yet comforting style. Ronna specializes in geriatric well-being, relational and family issues. She has a great deal of experience working with grief and loss, aging issues, adjustment disorders, and health and wellness. Her methods of practice include Cognitive Behavioral, Relaxation/Mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Ronna Buckun is a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience working with aging adults, adults, and their families. Her approach to therapy balances her genuineness, humor, and compassion with the focus on problem-solving and client growth. She possesses a direct, yet comforting style. Ronna specializes in geriatric well-being, relational and family issues. She has a great deal of experience working with grief and loss, aging issues, adjustment disorders, and health and wellness. Her methods of practice include Cognitive Behavioral, Relaxation/Mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(331) 256-2756 View (331) 256-2756
Photo of Saba Aqel, LCPC, Counselor
Saba Aqel
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to helping clients expand self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and process traumas and psychological wounds. With extensive experience in addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relational conflicts, burnout, and challenging life transitions, I offer compassionate and tailored support. I take great pride in working with BIPOC, immigrants, and first- and second-generation individuals navigating acculturation, racial identity, and cultural challenges, as well as young professionals and college students.
I am dedicated to helping clients expand self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and process traumas and psychological wounds. With extensive experience in addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relational conflicts, burnout, and challenging life transitions, I offer compassionate and tailored support. I take great pride in working with BIPOC, immigrants, and first- and second-generation individuals navigating acculturation, racial identity, and cultural challenges, as well as young professionals and college students.
(630) 864-6238 View (630) 864-6238
Photo of Christopher Poulakos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Poulakos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60189
Hello, glad you found me! I work with adolescents and adults ages 12+ to navigate various life difficulties. I enjoy working with those who struggle in managing grief, anxiety, depression, life-transitions, low self-esteem, and substance use/abuse
Hello, glad you found me! I work with adolescents and adults ages 12+ to navigate various life difficulties. I enjoy working with those who struggle in managing grief, anxiety, depression, life-transitions, low self-esteem, and substance use/abuse
(630) 866-8754 View (630) 866-8754
Photo of Debbie Prescott, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Debbie Prescott
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Are you facing unexpected challenges in your life? Let me help you rediscover your strengths and regain mental and emotional wellness. I offer support and teach techniques to help you overcome your obstacles. My specialty is guiding my clients through life transitions, such as divorce, illness, grief, and job loss. I focus on treatment of depression, marital and relational codependency, workplace conflict, and parenting issues, especially those related to discord with adult children.
Are you facing unexpected challenges in your life? Let me help you rediscover your strengths and regain mental and emotional wellness. I offer support and teach techniques to help you overcome your obstacles. My specialty is guiding my clients through life transitions, such as divorce, illness, grief, and job loss. I focus on treatment of depression, marital and relational codependency, workplace conflict, and parenting issues, especially those related to discord with adult children.
(331) 208-5568 View (331) 208-5568
Photo of Gigi Mary Clinard Borge, MA , NCC, LPC, EMDR, Counselor
Gigi Mary Clinard Borge
Counselor, MA , NCC, LPC, EMDR
Not Verified Not Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
Whether you seek relief from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, PTSD, relationship difficulties or other challenges, I am excited to collaborate with clients who desire to live their unique lives fully, participate in their healing process and seek to establish genuine, compassionate relationship with themselves and others! I believe most of us are doing our best to become who we hope to be, and can benefit from seeking appropriate support. Therefore, I don’t see a diagnosis, but an amazing human who wants to thrive despite life’s many challenges.
Whether you seek relief from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, PTSD, relationship difficulties or other challenges, I am excited to collaborate with clients who desire to live their unique lives fully, participate in their healing process and seek to establish genuine, compassionate relationship with themselves and others! I believe most of us are doing our best to become who we hope to be, and can benefit from seeking appropriate support. Therefore, I don’t see a diagnosis, but an amazing human who wants to thrive despite life’s many challenges.
(630) 407-1782 x328 View (630) 407-1782 x328
Photo of Erin Troff, PhD, LCPC, Counselor
Erin Troff
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
I work with adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and address issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life transitions (such as graduation, relocation, pregnancy, career changes, breakups), trauma, grief and loss, stress management, divorce, and low self-esteem.
Are you struggling with mood or relational issues that leave you feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone. Many people grapple with these issues as they navigate everyday life, whether managing the stress of work/life balance or coping with relationships that leave them drained. With over 17 years of experience, I have successfully helped adults overcome these issues so they can live a happy, well-adjusted life.
I work with adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and address issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life transitions (such as graduation, relocation, pregnancy, career changes, breakups), trauma, grief and loss, stress management, divorce, and low self-esteem.
Are you struggling with mood or relational issues that leave you feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone. Many people grapple with these issues as they navigate everyday life, whether managing the stress of work/life balance or coping with relationships that leave them drained. With over 17 years of experience, I have successfully helped adults overcome these issues so they can live a happy, well-adjusted life.
(630) 280-3776 View (630) 280-3776
Photo of Dr. Susan Cain, LCSW, EdD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Susan Cain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EdD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187  (Online Only)
I help clients reduce anxiety, make better decisions, navigate life and career obstacles, deal with relationship strains, resolve parenting dilemmas, and cope with grief and loss.
Let's change your future! I encourage you to schedule a free consultation to see if we're the right fit for your needs. Contacting a therapist can be intimidating, but I encourage you to take a moment (and maybe a deep breath) to see how I can assist with your life or workplace challenges. With me, you will explore your situation and how to navigate it with hope and confidence, whether you are facing life or workplace challenges. From our first session, you'll receive session recaps and practical tools to support your journey. I have immediate openings for day, evening, or weekend appointments for self-pay and insurance clients.
I help clients reduce anxiety, make better decisions, navigate life and career obstacles, deal with relationship strains, resolve parenting dilemmas, and cope with grief and loss.
Let's change your future! I encourage you to schedule a free consultation to see if we're the right fit for your needs. Contacting a therapist can be intimidating, but I encourage you to take a moment (and maybe a deep breath) to see how I can assist with your life or workplace challenges. With me, you will explore your situation and how to navigate it with hope and confidence, whether you are facing life or workplace challenges. From our first session, you'll receive session recaps and practical tools to support your journey. I have immediate openings for day, evening, or weekend appointments for self-pay and insurance clients.
(331) 253-4573 View (331) 253-4573
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.