Grief Therapists in Cicero, IN

Photo of Kayla Medaris, MEd, LMHCA, Counselor
Kayla Medaris
Counselor, MEd, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Cicero, IN 46034
My goal as a mental health counselor is to provide a safe environment for my clients to tell their story, process and feel emotions, and to just be. I have experience working with adults and teens as they navigate grief and loss, trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, anxiety, and depression.
My goal as a mental health counselor is to provide a safe environment for my clients to tell their story, process and feel emotions, and to just be. I have experience working with adults and teens as they navigate grief and loss, trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, anxiety, and depression.
(317) 548-0347 View (317) 548-0347
Photo of Rebecca Cola, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Cola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cicero, IN 46034
Hello, I’m Becky. Im here for you. We all want and need to be validated, supported, encouraged, motivated and above all, heard. Establishing trust and being comfortable in sharing our story with someone can be challenging. I work especially well with those who are first timers or doubters of therapy or who wonder what therapy is or those who have had a “bad” exposure to therapy. I tailor every session to your needs and we set the pace of healing together while also determining how it's done. I have the experience and education but you know your life and how therapy can fit into it; and if you don't, we'll figure that out too.
Hello, I’m Becky. Im here for you. We all want and need to be validated, supported, encouraged, motivated and above all, heard. Establishing trust and being comfortable in sharing our story with someone can be challenging. I work especially well with those who are first timers or doubters of therapy or who wonder what therapy is or those who have had a “bad” exposure to therapy. I tailor every session to your needs and we set the pace of healing together while also determining how it's done. I have the experience and education but you know your life and how therapy can fit into it; and if you don't, we'll figure that out too.
(317) 934-6953 View (317) 934-6953
Photo of Christine Fisher, LMHC, Counselor
Christine Fisher
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cicero, IN 46034
Christine Fisher is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in both Massachusettes and Indiana. She has 9 years of experience and specializes in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, stress, and trauma. No matter where someone starts, it’s possible to have a life with peace, joy, and healthy relationships. "Healing, growth, and change happen when a person feels heard and accepted. With compassion and teamwork, difficult thoughts and emotions can be untangled and start to heal," says Christine. She creates an open and accepting environment where her clients can feel safe.
Christine Fisher is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in both Massachusettes and Indiana. She has 9 years of experience and specializes in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, stress, and trauma. No matter where someone starts, it’s possible to have a life with peace, joy, and healthy relationships. "Healing, growth, and change happen when a person feels heard and accepted. With compassion and teamwork, difficult thoughts and emotions can be untangled and start to heal," says Christine. She creates an open and accepting environment where her clients can feel safe.
(617) 766-0194 View (617) 766-0194
Photo of Shelley Carroll Lafferty - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Noblesville, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Noblesville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Cicero, IN 46034
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Danielle Nunley, MSW, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Danielle Nunley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cicero, IN 46034
Life can be challenging in so many different ways, and my goal is to walk alongside you through this wild ride. I have a passion for working with individuals who want to better themselves as a whole. This could be anxiety, depression, trauma experiences, or everyday life struggles that have become hard to handle alone. I meet individuals where you are in life, while providing support, empathy, and clinical guidance.
Life can be challenging in so many different ways, and my goal is to walk alongside you through this wild ride. I have a passion for working with individuals who want to better themselves as a whole. This could be anxiety, depression, trauma experiences, or everyday life struggles that have become hard to handle alone. I meet individuals where you are in life, while providing support, empathy, and clinical guidance.
(463) 282-2453 View (463) 282-2453

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ashley Mangus, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Mangus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Noblesville, IN 46060
In therapy, I can help you learn ways to overcome negative thinking, create love and connection, manage depression and anxiety symptoms, resolve grief/ loss, and much more.
I believe that in order to be happy and healthy, we must nourish the whole person. As you begin your journey towards healing, I recognize the great courage it takes to seek help. My goal is to help you discover your true potential and form healthy relationships along the way. I strongly believe that each of us holds the power to change and create the life that we desire. You may feel stuck, not know exactly where to go for help, who the best person would be to talk to, or what to expect from therapy. These are normal questions and concerns. I want to assure you...You are at the right place.
In therapy, I can help you learn ways to overcome negative thinking, create love and connection, manage depression and anxiety symptoms, resolve grief/ loss, and much more.
I believe that in order to be happy and healthy, we must nourish the whole person. As you begin your journey towards healing, I recognize the great courage it takes to seek help. My goal is to help you discover your true potential and form healthy relationships along the way. I strongly believe that each of us holds the power to change and create the life that we desire. You may feel stuck, not know exactly where to go for help, who the best person would be to talk to, or what to expect from therapy. These are normal questions and concerns. I want to assure you...You are at the right place.
(317) 527-4918 View (317) 527-4918
Photo of Mary Ridley - Compassionate Roots LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Compassionate Roots LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Noblesville, IN 46060
These include anxiety and worry, depression and sadness, relationship difficulties, work related stress, loss of a loved one (including pets), loss of a relationship, and a diagnosis of a serious mental illness.
Compassionate Roots was made for those of us that are a little awkward, quirky and anxious. Do you want to pursue therapy but fear being judged? Are you highly sensitive and empathetic? Do you want to incorporate nature into your wellness? Welcome, you just found your safe place! My approach and motto are simple - everyone deserves a compassionate, and judgement free environment to heal and grow. I have a warm and interactive approach. My priority as your therapist is that you feel safe, heard, and that you feel comfortable as your authentic self. Therapy should not feel stuffy or tense!
These include anxiety and worry, depression and sadness, relationship difficulties, work related stress, loss of a loved one (including pets), loss of a relationship, and a diagnosis of a serious mental illness.
Compassionate Roots was made for those of us that are a little awkward, quirky and anxious. Do you want to pursue therapy but fear being judged? Are you highly sensitive and empathetic? Do you want to incorporate nature into your wellness? Welcome, you just found your safe place! My approach and motto are simple - everyone deserves a compassionate, and judgement free environment to heal and grow. I have a warm and interactive approach. My priority as your therapist is that you feel safe, heard, and that you feel comfortable as your authentic self. Therapy should not feel stuffy or tense!
(317) 548-0353 View (317) 548-0353
Photo of Jessica Lynn Ramey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Lynn Ramey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, IN 46062
I’m Jessica Ramey, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience specializing in child and adolescent therapy. I also work with young adults, offering guidance through the unique challenges of transitioning into adulthood. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming environment where individuals of all ages can explore their emotions, develop healthy coping strategies, and build confidence to navigate life’s obstacles. I love to create a tailored approach to meet each individuals needs using a mix of EMDR, CBT, DBT, and grief and attachment based interventions.
I’m Jessica Ramey, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience specializing in child and adolescent therapy. I also work with young adults, offering guidance through the unique challenges of transitioning into adulthood. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming environment where individuals of all ages can explore their emotions, develop healthy coping strategies, and build confidence to navigate life’s obstacles. I love to create a tailored approach to meet each individuals needs using a mix of EMDR, CBT, DBT, and grief and attachment based interventions.
(463) 500-1351 View (463) 500-1351
Photo of Jennifer Roland, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Roland
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Westfield, IN 46074
Wolfelt's philosophy of Companioning the Mourner, and am a member of the Association for Death Education and Counseling.
I am completing my Master's in Social Work through Indiana University and have spent the last 12 years as a high school teacher. I have a passion for supporting individuals through loss, grief and life transitions. I also have experience in supporting individuals through identifying healthy coping mechanisms to lean into when struggling with anxiety and depression. My work with teens for the past 12 years, has reaffirmed my passion for forming new connections, particularly with teenagers and young adults, and assisting them in coping with the challenges and stress that they often experience.
Wolfelt's philosophy of Companioning the Mourner, and am a member of the Association for Death Education and Counseling.
I am completing my Master's in Social Work through Indiana University and have spent the last 12 years as a high school teacher. I have a passion for supporting individuals through loss, grief and life transitions. I also have experience in supporting individuals through identifying healthy coping mechanisms to lean into when struggling with anxiety and depression. My work with teens for the past 12 years, has reaffirmed my passion for forming new connections, particularly with teenagers and young adults, and assisting them in coping with the challenges and stress that they often experience.
(463) 292-0040 View (463) 292-0040
Photo of Ellen Mail, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Mail
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, IN 46074
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or burnt out? Are you struggling to connect with your partner? Perhaps anxiety & depression are feeling more sticky than normal. Maybe you've experienced heartbreaking loss, or are trying to find the ground beneath you after receiving news of a difficult diagnosis. If so, I'm glad our paths have crossed. I enjoy working with motivated adults including new moms and dads, young adults, couples, medical and mental health professionals, & caregivers. I also love helping those who are faced with life transition-related challenges such as starting a family, launching children, or changing careers.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or burnt out? Are you struggling to connect with your partner? Perhaps anxiety & depression are feeling more sticky than normal. Maybe you've experienced heartbreaking loss, or are trying to find the ground beneath you after receiving news of a difficult diagnosis. If so, I'm glad our paths have crossed. I enjoy working with motivated adults including new moms and dads, young adults, couples, medical and mental health professionals, & caregivers. I also love helping those who are faced with life transition-related challenges such as starting a family, launching children, or changing careers.
(317) 932-8541 View (317) 932-8541
Photo of Shannon Francis, LMHC, LCPC, Counselor
Shannon Francis
Counselor, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Noblesville, IN 46062
I have been trained as a Grief Recovery Specialist and am able to use these skills to help clients walk through their own grief journey.
I have over 20 years of counseling experience specializing in individuals, couples, and grief counseling. My previous experience in a local mental health center allowed me to see a variety of clients presenting with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, post-traumatic stress disorder, and social anxiety disorder.
I have been trained as a Grief Recovery Specialist and am able to use these skills to help clients walk through their own grief journey.
I have over 20 years of counseling experience specializing in individuals, couples, and grief counseling. My previous experience in a local mental health center allowed me to see a variety of clients presenting with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, post-traumatic stress disorder, and social anxiety disorder.
(317) 961-7824 View (317) 961-7824
Photo of Jodi Brumbaugh, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Jodi Brumbaugh
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Noblesville, IN 46060  (Online Only)
With a diverse background spanning nine years across settings in Indiana and Uganda, I am passionate about treating clients dealing with trauma/PTSD, grief/ loss, and adoption. I understand the emotions inherent in cultural transitions. My expertise extends to cross-cultural counseling in East Africa. I infuse my practice with the significance of relationships and community, complemented by evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). By establishing trust, building rapport, showing support, and demonstrating genuine empathy, I prioritize client-centered care.
With a diverse background spanning nine years across settings in Indiana and Uganda, I am passionate about treating clients dealing with trauma/PTSD, grief/ loss, and adoption. I understand the emotions inherent in cultural transitions. My expertise extends to cross-cultural counseling in East Africa. I infuse my practice with the significance of relationships and community, complemented by evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). By establishing trust, building rapport, showing support, and demonstrating genuine empathy, I prioritize client-centered care.
(765) 752-1597 View (765) 752-1597
Photo of Sherry L O'Brian, LCSW, DCEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherry L O'Brian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCEP
Verified Verified
Noblesville, IN 46062
Sherry is also the author of "Peaks and Valleys: Integrative Approaches for Recovering From Loss.
Each session is a profound road to self-discovery. Every individual is empowered to heal at the deepest level by learning to bridge the subconscious mind with the conscious mind to release sabotaging core beliefs & emotional energy frozen within the body. Learn self-help tools you can actually use anywhere! Improve your ability to manifest all your desires - weight loss, mood disorders, accelerate personal growth, transcend grief & loss.
Sherry is also the author of "Peaks and Valleys: Integrative Approaches for Recovering From Loss.
Each session is a profound road to self-discovery. Every individual is empowered to heal at the deepest level by learning to bridge the subconscious mind with the conscious mind to release sabotaging core beliefs & emotional energy frozen within the body. Learn self-help tools you can actually use anywhere! Improve your ability to manifest all your desires - weight loss, mood disorders, accelerate personal growth, transcend grief & loss.
(317) 427-6095 View (317) 427-6095
Photo of Catherine Ray, LCSW, CCTP, CAGCS, FT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Ray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CAGCS, FT
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
Utilizing my education in grief therapy and trauma training, my profession of 17 years in Hospice/Palliative Care, and my personal experience with losses of my own has proven to be most effective in providing my clients with empathy and compassion, a deeper understanding of and insight into problems, and much needed emotional support.
Are you suffering from a broken heart? Did a divorce, or the end of a romantic relationship cause it? Or have you experienced pet loss, death by suicide, homicide, overdose, or experience a toxic relationship? Grief is a person’s response to loss, entailing emotions, thoughts and behaviors as well as physiological changes. Grief is permanent after we lose someone close though it’s manifestations are variable both within and between people. We focus on promoting healing milestones and addressing stuck points in adapting to loss using active listening and personalized interventions with specific tools to help you cope with the loss.
Utilizing my education in grief therapy and trauma training, my profession of 17 years in Hospice/Palliative Care, and my personal experience with losses of my own has proven to be most effective in providing my clients with empathy and compassion, a deeper understanding of and insight into problems, and much needed emotional support.
Are you suffering from a broken heart? Did a divorce, or the end of a romantic relationship cause it? Or have you experienced pet loss, death by suicide, homicide, overdose, or experience a toxic relationship? Grief is a person’s response to loss, entailing emotions, thoughts and behaviors as well as physiological changes. Grief is permanent after we lose someone close though it’s manifestations are variable both within and between people. We focus on promoting healing milestones and addressing stuck points in adapting to loss using active listening and personalized interventions with specific tools to help you cope with the loss.
(317) 934-2284 View (317) 934-2284
Photo of Mallory Gakpo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mallory Gakpo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Noblesville, IN 46060
With that has come a wide range of other specialties such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship discord, maladaptive coping skills, codependency, and the list goes on.
Are you on the road of old ways and struggling to open new doors? Let this be the first new door you open. I invite you to pull up a chair to chat and give yourself permission to focus on yourself and your needs. This may be something you do regularly or something you are utterly uncomfortable with due to its unfamiliarity. Change. That's what this is all about. Whether it's us, our situation, our relationships, or our reactions. Something has to change, am I right? The only difference between where we are and where we want to be is the step we have yet to take. Here's that first step, ready to take it?
With that has come a wide range of other specialties such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship discord, maladaptive coping skills, codependency, and the list goes on.
Are you on the road of old ways and struggling to open new doors? Let this be the first new door you open. I invite you to pull up a chair to chat and give yourself permission to focus on yourself and your needs. This may be something you do regularly or something you are utterly uncomfortable with due to its unfamiliarity. Change. That's what this is all about. Whether it's us, our situation, our relationships, or our reactions. Something has to change, am I right? The only difference between where we are and where we want to be is the step we have yet to take. Here's that first step, ready to take it?
(317) 350-8592 View (317) 350-8592
Photo of Mary A Holland - Mary Holland Counseling, LLC, MEd, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Mary Holland Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westfield, IN 46074
Mary Holland is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Indiana and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. She specializes in helping individuals and couples process and manage challenging times, such as relationship difficulties, infertility, life-limiting diagnosis, grief, loss, and medical trauma. Mary has over 20 years of experience in the cognitive behavioral field and is certified in Brainspotting. Mary’s advanced training helps her bring a compassionate, respectful, and adaptable approach to her work.
Mary Holland is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Indiana and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. She specializes in helping individuals and couples process and manage challenging times, such as relationship difficulties, infertility, life-limiting diagnosis, grief, loss, and medical trauma. Mary has over 20 years of experience in the cognitive behavioral field and is certified in Brainspotting. Mary’s advanced training helps her bring a compassionate, respectful, and adaptable approach to her work.
(317) 961-7449 View (317) 961-7449
Photo of Andrea Aichele, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Aichele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Noblesville, IN 46061  (Online Only)
Looking for a safe place for your child to explore their emotions? Are you an expecting mother navigating the perinatal period? Are you a trauma survivor looking for a a therapist to guide you toward healing? Or are you coping with grief & looking for an empathic therapist? Your journey to healing and well-being begins today! Andrea is ready to connect!.
Specializing in working with kids, perinatal mental health, trauma, and grief- meet Andrea Aichele, a compassionate and dedicated virtual therapist on the Thrive for Life team, currently accepting new clients in Indiana & Florida. With a client-centered and evidence-based approach, Andrea fosters a safe and supportive environment for individuals seeking personal growth and healing. Andrea utilizes her extensive experience to guide clients towards achieving their unique therapeutic goals. As a skilled and empathetic counselor, Andrea is committed to empowering individuals on their journey to emotional well-being.
Looking for a safe place for your child to explore their emotions? Are you an expecting mother navigating the perinatal period? Are you a trauma survivor looking for a a therapist to guide you toward healing? Or are you coping with grief & looking for an empathic therapist? Your journey to healing and well-being begins today! Andrea is ready to connect!.
Specializing in working with kids, perinatal mental health, trauma, and grief- meet Andrea Aichele, a compassionate and dedicated virtual therapist on the Thrive for Life team, currently accepting new clients in Indiana & Florida. With a client-centered and evidence-based approach, Andrea fosters a safe and supportive environment for individuals seeking personal growth and healing. Andrea utilizes her extensive experience to guide clients towards achieving their unique therapeutic goals. As a skilled and empathetic counselor, Andrea is committed to empowering individuals on their journey to emotional well-being.
(463) 232-6537 View (463) 232-6537
Photo of Trevor Payne, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trevor Payne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Noblesville, IN 46060
Whether you're navigating gender transition, coping with grief and loss, managing symptoms of depression and anxiety, or seeking support for other concerns, I am here to support you.
I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, transgender affirming therapy, neurodivergent exploration, grief work, depression, anxiety, life transitions, boundary setting, harm reduction, and sex positivity. As a therapist who is also transgender, I understand the unique challenges and complexities individuals face in navigating gender identity and the impact of trauma on both physical and mental health. My personal journey has fueled my passion for creating safe and affirming spaces where individuals can heal, grow, and thrive authentically.
Whether you're navigating gender transition, coping with grief and loss, managing symptoms of depression and anxiety, or seeking support for other concerns, I am here to support you.
I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, transgender affirming therapy, neurodivergent exploration, grief work, depression, anxiety, life transitions, boundary setting, harm reduction, and sex positivity. As a therapist who is also transgender, I understand the unique challenges and complexities individuals face in navigating gender identity and the impact of trauma on both physical and mental health. My personal journey has fueled my passion for creating safe and affirming spaces where individuals can heal, grow, and thrive authentically.
(463) 292-1199 View (463) 292-1199
Photo of Katie Vescelus, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Vescelus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Noblesville, IN 46060
My passion is working with people as they rebuild after difficult life transitions or traumatic events, including but not limited to medical trauma and serious illness. I have experience working with dialysis, transplant, and cancer patients and their caregivers, and I have assisted many families as they navigate the widespread complications of medical issues, survivorship, and disability. I have also supported individuals as they learn to live with grief and loss.
My passion is working with people as they rebuild after difficult life transitions or traumatic events, including but not limited to medical trauma and serious illness. I have experience working with dialysis, transplant, and cancer patients and their caregivers, and I have assisted many families as they navigate the widespread complications of medical issues, survivorship, and disability. I have also supported individuals as they learn to live with grief and loss.
(463) 263-3936 View (463) 263-3936
Photo of Kaylee Odell, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kaylee Odell
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, IN 46074
All of us face painful and challenging experiences at some point in our journey. And sometimes, we need extra support to move through the struggles, to grow, to heal, to learn and unlearn, and to find peace and harmony again. I am passionate about walking alongside you through the ebb and flow of life, as you process pain and trauma, relationship strain, grief and loss, and other hardships that accompany the human experience. A central part of my practice is to provide support and encouragement in these moments while also helping you to move toward greater clarity, calm, and well-being.
All of us face painful and challenging experiences at some point in our journey. And sometimes, we need extra support to move through the struggles, to grow, to heal, to learn and unlearn, and to find peace and harmony again. I am passionate about walking alongside you through the ebb and flow of life, as you process pain and trauma, relationship strain, grief and loss, and other hardships that accompany the human experience. A central part of my practice is to provide support and encouragement in these moments while also helping you to move toward greater clarity, calm, and well-being.
(317) 399-1774 View (317) 399-1774

See more therapy options for Cicero

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.