Grief Therapists in Lawrence, KS

Photo of Laurie Limpitlaw Krambeer, PhD, Psychologist
Laurie Limpitlaw Krambeer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 66049  (Online Only)
I have focused, in my work, on the treatment of anxiety, depression, grief, interpersonal problems, and addiction.
One of the purposes in life is to be happy and live a good life. However, daily living involves struggles and there are some difficulties and aspects of life that are inherently painful and hard to cope with. Psychotherapy is a useful way for many people to address and work on personal problems and, in so doing, create a better quality of living for themselves. I have great respect for clients who have the courage to face problems and I welcome you to call me to schedule an appointment.
I have focused, in my work, on the treatment of anxiety, depression, grief, interpersonal problems, and addiction.
One of the purposes in life is to be happy and live a good life. However, daily living involves struggles and there are some difficulties and aspects of life that are inherently painful and hard to cope with. Psychotherapy is a useful way for many people to address and work on personal problems and, in so doing, create a better quality of living for themselves. I have great respect for clients who have the courage to face problems and I welcome you to call me to schedule an appointment.
(785) 527-9275 View (785) 527-9275
Photo of Cheryl Herzog-Arneill, LMSW, SEP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cheryl Herzog-Arneill
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrence, KS 66049
Are you facing difficulties in your life, such as anxiety, depression, grief or lack of motivation? Perhaps you’ve heard that working with your body and nervous system—also known as somatic therapy—can be helpful and bring more vitality to your life, help reduce stress, or heal past trauma. If so, then my approach may be a good fit for you. My goal is to collaborate with you to heal trauma, restore resiliency, and develop skills so that you can show up in your unique, beautiful life and shine. I specialize in working with the nervous system to help you get in touch with your true essence & aliveness.
Are you facing difficulties in your life, such as anxiety, depression, grief or lack of motivation? Perhaps you’ve heard that working with your body and nervous system—also known as somatic therapy—can be helpful and bring more vitality to your life, help reduce stress, or heal past trauma. If so, then my approach may be a good fit for you. My goal is to collaborate with you to heal trauma, restore resiliency, and develop skills so that you can show up in your unique, beautiful life and shine. I specialize in working with the nervous system to help you get in touch with your true essence & aliveness.
(913) 794-3885 View (913) 794-3885
Photo of Iman Williams Christians, PhD
Iman Williams Christians
PhD
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 66045  (Online Only)
As a trauma, grief, and couples specialist, it is my goal to not just provide you with skills, but to support you in doing the deep work truly needed to become unstuck and move forward in your life.
Change takes courage. I understand the courage it takes to reach out and ask for support when we feel our most stuck. As your therapist, I will remain fully dedicated to strengthening the resiliency needed within to reclaim yourself through connection, self-compassion, and self-love.
As a trauma, grief, and couples specialist, it is my goal to not just provide you with skills, but to support you in doing the deep work truly needed to become unstuck and move forward in your life.
Change takes courage. I understand the courage it takes to reach out and ask for support when we feel our most stuck. As your therapist, I will remain fully dedicated to strengthening the resiliency needed within to reclaim yourself through connection, self-compassion, and self-love.
(757) 703-1513 View (757) 703-1513
Photo of Brock Caffee, MS, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brock Caffee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Lawrence, KS 66044
With a clear understanding of the impact of development, toxic shame, trauma, grief, and communication patterns I can help you learn about what is not working in your life and determine how to find contentment.
I see a wide variety of individual and couples clients who hope to improve their circumstances (ages 15-99). Most of my clients have experienced some form of past hurt or other struggle. I work to manage conflict, disappointment, hurt feelings, sadness, grief, loss, or other strong emotions. My approach is empathic/patient but directive. My strategies are adapted from my experience with trauma (CPTSD), attachment, family dynamics, codependency, toxic shame, grief and loss, parent-child relationships (incl. estrangement), premarital counseling, life transitions. I hope my clients experience peace as a result of our work together!
With a clear understanding of the impact of development, toxic shame, trauma, grief, and communication patterns I can help you learn about what is not working in your life and determine how to find contentment.
I see a wide variety of individual and couples clients who hope to improve their circumstances (ages 15-99). Most of my clients have experienced some form of past hurt or other struggle. I work to manage conflict, disappointment, hurt feelings, sadness, grief, loss, or other strong emotions. My approach is empathic/patient but directive. My strategies are adapted from my experience with trauma (CPTSD), attachment, family dynamics, codependency, toxic shame, grief and loss, parent-child relationships (incl. estrangement), premarital counseling, life transitions. I hope my clients experience peace as a result of our work together!
(785) 329-0376 View (785) 329-0376
Photo of Sarah Collins, MSSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 66049
Starting therapy can be a daunting task, often associated with mixed feelings. Most of us seek healthcare when we’re experiencing discomfort, ranging from discontent to crisis. You’ve made an important decision to prioritize your wellness. I am a licensed clinical social worker with nearly 20 years of experience working with individuals who are facing significant life changes, depression, anxiety or behaviors that might be impacting their overall well-being and that of their loved ones. I have a particular interest in helping those learning to cope with chronic illness, end-of-life and anticipatory grief, and bereavement issues.
Starting therapy can be a daunting task, often associated with mixed feelings. Most of us seek healthcare when we’re experiencing discomfort, ranging from discontent to crisis. You’ve made an important decision to prioritize your wellness. I am a licensed clinical social worker with nearly 20 years of experience working with individuals who are facing significant life changes, depression, anxiety or behaviors that might be impacting their overall well-being and that of their loved ones. I have a particular interest in helping those learning to cope with chronic illness, end-of-life and anticipatory grief, and bereavement issues.
(785) 347-6958 View (785) 347-6958
Photo of Joy Bishop, LMSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joy Bishop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 66044
Currently Not Accepting New Clients. "No one ever told me that grief felt so much like fear" -C.S. Lewis. Hello, I am here to help you on your personal grief and loss journey. Having someone you love die, can feel unbearable. I have provided a safe place where your voice is heard. Grieving and mourning can take place. Death of a loved one, loss of a career and loss of relationships can all leave you feeling hopeless and alone. I will sit with you in this darkness. I will hold hope for you. I have witnessed personally and professionally that there is light in all this darkness.
Currently Not Accepting New Clients. "No one ever told me that grief felt so much like fear" -C.S. Lewis. Hello, I am here to help you on your personal grief and loss journey. Having someone you love die, can feel unbearable. I have provided a safe place where your voice is heard. Grieving and mourning can take place. Death of a loved one, loss of a career and loss of relationships can all leave you feeling hopeless and alone. I will sit with you in this darkness. I will hold hope for you. I have witnessed personally and professionally that there is light in all this darkness.
(785) 371-1327 View (785) 371-1327
Photo of Christy Tomanek, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christy Tomanek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrence, KS 66044
I specialize in helping clients who are coping with grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
Life is not always easy to maneuver through. We become paralyzed and confused, not knowing which direction to take. There are times that we need help processing our emotions. I am passionate about being present while you walk through the journey of healing. My commitment is to provide you with a calm and supportive environment allowing you the space to take those needed steps. I believe that everyone has an inner strength to overcome whatever challenges you are facing. With guidance, you will find this strength needed to overcome any issues you are struggling with.
I specialize in helping clients who are coping with grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
Life is not always easy to maneuver through. We become paralyzed and confused, not knowing which direction to take. There are times that we need help processing our emotions. I am passionate about being present while you walk through the journey of healing. My commitment is to provide you with a calm and supportive environment allowing you the space to take those needed steps. I believe that everyone has an inner strength to overcome whatever challenges you are facing. With guidance, you will find this strength needed to overcome any issues you are struggling with.
(785) 390-2108 View (785) 390-2108
Photo of Bethany Ruhl, PLPC
Bethany Ruhl
PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrence, KS 66044  (Online Only)
I bring a warm and inviting energy to client interactions where I help them to make meaning out of life’s joys, sorrows and times of transition. I help clients begin to answer the question of “Why do bad things happen to good people?” I bring years of experience working with grief & loss, end of life issues, times of transition and women’s issues. I use my years working in the mental health field, chaplaincy, the correctional system and adolescent psychology to empower clients to make the best and most healthy decisions for themselves and their loved ones. I believe strongly in the power of unconditional love. I welcome those from a
I bring a warm and inviting energy to client interactions where I help them to make meaning out of life’s joys, sorrows and times of transition. I help clients begin to answer the question of “Why do bad things happen to good people?” I bring years of experience working with grief & loss, end of life issues, times of transition and women’s issues. I use my years working in the mental health field, chaplaincy, the correctional system and adolescent psychology to empower clients to make the best and most healthy decisions for themselves and their loved ones. I believe strongly in the power of unconditional love. I welcome those from a
(816) 338-7842 View (816) 338-7842
Photo of Bryan Beaty, LPC, LCPC
Bryan Beaty
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrence, KS 66049
Some of the topics discussed include: relationship/marriage problems, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, and social difficulties.
Hi! I’m Bryan. My hope is to provide clients with a supportive and safe environment where they feel comfortable to explore and understand thoughts and feelings that may arise through life. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, low self-worth, life changes, and trauma. You may be handling these difficulties in ways that are not satisfying or that impact your relationships. Whether you are a teenager struggling to make meaningful relationships, a young adult starting with new changes in life, or a survivor of trauma looking for a safe place to heal, I am here to help.
Some of the topics discussed include: relationship/marriage problems, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, and social difficulties.
Hi! I’m Bryan. My hope is to provide clients with a supportive and safe environment where they feel comfortable to explore and understand thoughts and feelings that may arise through life. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, low self-worth, life changes, and trauma. You may be handling these difficulties in ways that are not satisfying or that impact your relationships. Whether you are a teenager struggling to make meaningful relationships, a young adult starting with new changes in life, or a survivor of trauma looking for a safe place to heal, I am here to help.
(785) 264-5850 View (785) 264-5850
Photo of Shianne Cokely, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shianne Cokely
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 66044
My greatest passions are supporting clients walking through Life Adjustments, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma/PTSD, Domestic Violence, Postpartum and Grief.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, I earned my Bachelor degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Education from Emporia State University and my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Fort Hays State University. I am a Mom, Christian, Mentor, and Lover of the Outdoors. Whether you are seeking support for a better life balance, desire to improve your relationships, or are struggling with challenges in your life - I am here to listen and support you. I believe in the value of a genuine client and counselor relationship and want to walk with you through whatever you may be facing.
My greatest passions are supporting clients walking through Life Adjustments, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma/PTSD, Domestic Violence, Postpartum and Grief.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, I earned my Bachelor degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Education from Emporia State University and my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Fort Hays State University. I am a Mom, Christian, Mentor, and Lover of the Outdoors. Whether you are seeking support for a better life balance, desire to improve your relationships, or are struggling with challenges in your life - I am here to listen and support you. I believe in the value of a genuine client and counselor relationship and want to walk with you through whatever you may be facing.
(785) 264-6403 View (785) 264-6403
Photo of Kristan S Caffee, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristan S Caffee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrence, KS 66044
I understand both individual and relationship impacts of significant events and ongoing struggles, including things like grief, past relationships, guilt, codependency, anxiety/depression, and more.
My ideal client is one who is motivated to work on things that will improve their life and hopes to explore the situations and stresses in life collaboratively. I like to focus on helping people grow through feeling understood and cared for as well as to understand themselves and their relationships more accurately. My experience includes work with a variety of different client experiences, including trauma, relationship struggles, family stress or disfunction, divorce and blended family issues, shared custody/visitation, parent-child relationship, child behavior issues, loss, traumatic injury, terminal illness, aging, and more.
I understand both individual and relationship impacts of significant events and ongoing struggles, including things like grief, past relationships, guilt, codependency, anxiety/depression, and more.
My ideal client is one who is motivated to work on things that will improve their life and hopes to explore the situations and stresses in life collaboratively. I like to focus on helping people grow through feeling understood and cared for as well as to understand themselves and their relationships more accurately. My experience includes work with a variety of different client experiences, including trauma, relationship struggles, family stress or disfunction, divorce and blended family issues, shared custody/visitation, parent-child relationship, child behavior issues, loss, traumatic injury, terminal illness, aging, and more.
(785) 620-1733 View (785) 620-1733
Photo of Karen Frykholm - Karen Frykholm, LCMFT, MA, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Frykholm, LCMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LCMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lawrence, KS 66044
I help couples develop internal and interpersonal processes to work through gridlock in communication and conflict, sex, affairs, parenting, health, infertility, family-of-origin, roles, loss, balancing connection & separateness, crises, vicissitudes of life.
Currently accepting new clients. Are you looking for help with persistent or acute discomforts or yearnings? Are they negatively affecting you in your progress in life? I can help you gain clarity, competence, and confidence in your processes for easing burdens, healing, and making meaningful changes both now and for your life ahead. I find that most people benefit from therapy for discerning and strengthening to meet what is given. There are effective ways to attend, that need not overwhelm.
I help couples develop internal and interpersonal processes to work through gridlock in communication and conflict, sex, affairs, parenting, health, infertility, family-of-origin, roles, loss, balancing connection & separateness, crises, vicissitudes of life.
Currently accepting new clients. Are you looking for help with persistent or acute discomforts or yearnings? Are they negatively affecting you in your progress in life? I can help you gain clarity, competence, and confidence in your processes for easing burdens, healing, and making meaningful changes both now and for your life ahead. I find that most people benefit from therapy for discerning and strengthening to meet what is given. There are effective ways to attend, that need not overwhelm.
(913) 937-8434 View (913) 937-8434
Photo of Cynthia Fecchia, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Fecchia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 66049
Congratulations on taking the FIRST courageous step toward dealing with your PAIN that is no longer working for you; or perhaps you like to grow and learn more about yourself; or you want to achieve HEALING from grief/ loss related to major life changes. Painful symptoms related to trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, or relational issues are tough to tackle by yourself. By giving a non-judgmental and an empathetic therapist a CHANCE and Therapy time, change IS possible. I am dually licensed in Kansas and Missouri.
Congratulations on taking the FIRST courageous step toward dealing with your PAIN that is no longer working for you; or perhaps you like to grow and learn more about yourself; or you want to achieve HEALING from grief/ loss related to major life changes. Painful symptoms related to trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, or relational issues are tough to tackle by yourself. By giving a non-judgmental and an empathetic therapist a CHANCE and Therapy time, change IS possible. I am dually licensed in Kansas and Missouri.
(785) 264-4081 View (785) 264-4081
Photo of Jena Bloch, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jena Bloch
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 66049
I support individual clients as well coping with issues such as depression anxiety, panic attacks, grief, binge eating, bipolar disorder, stress management, LGBTQ issues, and trauma.
I love supporting couples and individuals who are wanting to make a change in their life or wanting to feel better. Maybe they are struggling with regulating their emotions and don't have enough tools to be as resilient as they would like to be. Maybe there are outside stressors with work, a relationship, or kids and want support in how to handle a situation. They may find themselves "triggered" by things from past trauma and they don't know how to cope. They may feel very stuck in a relationship and now sure how to move forward.
I support individual clients as well coping with issues such as depression anxiety, panic attacks, grief, binge eating, bipolar disorder, stress management, LGBTQ issues, and trauma.
I love supporting couples and individuals who are wanting to make a change in their life or wanting to feel better. Maybe they are struggling with regulating their emotions and don't have enough tools to be as resilient as they would like to be. Maybe there are outside stressors with work, a relationship, or kids and want support in how to handle a situation. They may find themselves "triggered" by things from past trauma and they don't know how to cope. They may feel very stuck in a relationship and now sure how to move forward.
(785) 465-4472 View (785) 465-4472
Photo of Carla DeHetre, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carla DeHetre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lawrence, KS 66049
Welcome to my page, I'm glad you stopped by. Navigating the transitions we experience during our lifetime can be difficult. Depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss can cause difficulties in our work, relationships with others and with ourself. It is during these times, it can be helpful to seek out support. Over the past 20 + years, I have had the pleasure of being a part of the journey of others, helping people help themselves within the therapeutic process.
Welcome to my page, I'm glad you stopped by. Navigating the transitions we experience during our lifetime can be difficult. Depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss can cause difficulties in our work, relationships with others and with ourself. It is during these times, it can be helpful to seek out support. Over the past 20 + years, I have had the pleasure of being a part of the journey of others, helping people help themselves within the therapeutic process.
(785) 509-2816 View (785) 509-2816
Photo of Danielle M Rowley, LSCSW, MHCL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle M Rowley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, MHCL
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lawrence, KS 66049
I enjoy assisting people of all ages adjusting to life transitions or dealing with such broad issues as: trauma, interpersonal distress, depression, anxiety, grief, parental conflict, divorce, confidence, self-esteem concerns, socioemotional and behavioral difficulties. Using empowerment and strengths, I'm passionate about assisting clients in finding their voice, determining their wants and needs, and developing confidence in making effective changes. You can contact me through the psychology today links or through my website below.
I enjoy assisting people of all ages adjusting to life transitions or dealing with such broad issues as: trauma, interpersonal distress, depression, anxiety, grief, parental conflict, divorce, confidence, self-esteem concerns, socioemotional and behavioral difficulties. Using empowerment and strengths, I'm passionate about assisting clients in finding their voice, determining their wants and needs, and developing confidence in making effective changes. You can contact me through the psychology today links or through my website below.
(785) 626-8120 View (785) 626-8120
Photo of Debbie Goldberg - Debbie Goldberg, MSW, LSCSW, MSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debbie Goldberg, MSW, LSCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 66044
I am comfortable with the many issues affecting adolescents and adults such as eating disorders, self harm issues, relationship conflicts, depression, anxiety, OCD, life transitions and trauma such as divorce and grief.
To be human is to...struggle! I have the utmost respect for anyone who has the courage to look at themselves and realize change is needed. That is half the battle and I like to think of the therapy relationship as a team effort that helps you move forward to your goals. I am dedicated to helping people move out of their ruts and see that there is a more satisfying way to live. Individual(adult and adolescent), couple counseling and family therapy are all within my specialty areas with focus on interpersonal r-ships, attachment styles, psychodynamic, CBT(cognitive behavioral therapy) and mindfulness techniques.
I am comfortable with the many issues affecting adolescents and adults such as eating disorders, self harm issues, relationship conflicts, depression, anxiety, OCD, life transitions and trauma such as divorce and grief.
To be human is to...struggle! I have the utmost respect for anyone who has the courage to look at themselves and realize change is needed. That is half the battle and I like to think of the therapy relationship as a team effort that helps you move forward to your goals. I am dedicated to helping people move out of their ruts and see that there is a more satisfying way to live. Individual(adult and adolescent), couple counseling and family therapy are all within my specialty areas with focus on interpersonal r-ships, attachment styles, psychodynamic, CBT(cognitive behavioral therapy) and mindfulness techniques.
(785) 728-4940 View (785) 728-4940
Photo of Emily Reimer, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Reimer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 66047  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialty areas are anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, life transitions and trauma.
Oscar Wilde said, "To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people just exist." I enjoy working with young to middle-aged adults who are going through new phases in life, such as leaving home, moving, giving birth/adopting, facing the empty nest, or losing a loved one. There are many kinds of losses. With such changes, there can be uncertainty, causing a range of emotions.
My specialty areas are anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, life transitions and trauma.
Oscar Wilde said, "To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people just exist." I enjoy working with young to middle-aged adults who are going through new phases in life, such as leaving home, moving, giving birth/adopting, facing the empty nest, or losing a loved one. There are many kinds of losses. With such changes, there can be uncertainty, causing a range of emotions.
(785) 367-4798 View (785) 367-4798
Photo of Anne Owen, PhD, Psychologist
Anne Owen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 66049
I am a licensed psychologist in Lawrence, Kansas. I work with clients who have a variety of concerns, including stress, depression, anxiety, panic and agoraphobia, OCD, chronic worry, insomnia, grief and bereavement, relationship problems, infidelity, divorce, parenting and step-parenting problems. I encourage you to spend some time on my website for more information about me and my practice.
I am a licensed psychologist in Lawrence, Kansas. I work with clients who have a variety of concerns, including stress, depression, anxiety, panic and agoraphobia, OCD, chronic worry, insomnia, grief and bereavement, relationship problems, infidelity, divorce, parenting and step-parenting problems. I encourage you to spend some time on my website for more information about me and my practice.
(785) 367-2019 View (785) 367-2019
Photo of Sally J McVey, LSCSW, LCAC, ERYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sally J McVey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCAC, ERYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lawrence, KS 66047
I am dedicated to serving adults in various stages of recovery, be it from burnout, childbirth, divorce, career transitions, empty nesting, first-time adulting, chronic pain, addiction, grief, generational family dysfunction, marginalization, or cultural toxicity. Through a supportive and secure environment, we will work together to rediscover your true Self and embrace your potential. My approach focuses on fostering self-awareness and growth with compassion and non-judgmental understanding.
I am dedicated to serving adults in various stages of recovery, be it from burnout, childbirth, divorce, career transitions, empty nesting, first-time adulting, chronic pain, addiction, grief, generational family dysfunction, marginalization, or cultural toxicity. Through a supportive and secure environment, we will work together to rediscover your true Self and embrace your potential. My approach focuses on fostering self-awareness and growth with compassion and non-judgmental understanding.
(785) 384-4420 View (785) 384-4420
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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.