Grief Therapists in Edmonson County, KY

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Online Therapists

Photo of Erin Peirce, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin Peirce
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
I have experience addressing depression, anxiety, grief, major life adjustments, general coping skills, and past trauma or abuse.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist in private practice since 2014, I have experience working with people of all ages and from varied backgrounds. If you are living with depression or anxiety, having trouble managing a major transition or stressor, wading through grief, or seeking support in coping with difficult emotions or traumatic memories, I would be happy to work alongside you in identifying the resources you need to manage these difficulties successfully. I offer services to adults, teens, individuals, and families. I am focused on highlighting your strengths and supporting you in identifying your own solutions.
I have experience addressing depression, anxiety, grief, major life adjustments, general coping skills, and past trauma or abuse.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist in private practice since 2014, I have experience working with people of all ages and from varied backgrounds. If you are living with depression or anxiety, having trouble managing a major transition or stressor, wading through grief, or seeking support in coping with difficult emotions or traumatic memories, I would be happy to work alongside you in identifying the resources you need to manage these difficulties successfully. I offer services to adults, teens, individuals, and families. I am focused on highlighting your strengths and supporting you in identifying your own solutions.
(502) 785-7195 View (502) 785-7195
Photo of Erin D Jarrett, LSGC, TCADC, EMDR, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Erin D Jarrett
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LSGC, TCADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40218
Together we can work through: shame, loss, and trauma.
Troubled by PTSD? Anxiety? Depression? I'm the behavioral health professional for you! I employ a cutting edge therapeutic model called Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which is a powerful, psychotherapy technique for treatment of anxiety, panic, depression, and post-traumatic stress. I will teach you practical tools and techniques that are evidence-based and designed to help you quickly work through your current situation. I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, and military veterans with symptoms of trauma/PTSD, depression, and anxiety. My clinical style is very warm, strengths-based, and collaborative.
Together we can work through: shame, loss, and trauma.
Troubled by PTSD? Anxiety? Depression? I'm the behavioral health professional for you! I employ a cutting edge therapeutic model called Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which is a powerful, psychotherapy technique for treatment of anxiety, panic, depression, and post-traumatic stress. I will teach you practical tools and techniques that are evidence-based and designed to help you quickly work through your current situation. I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, and military veterans with symptoms of trauma/PTSD, depression, and anxiety. My clinical style is very warm, strengths-based, and collaborative.
(502) 410-3199 View (502) 410-3199
Photo of Leisia K Landers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leisia K Landers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glasgow, KY 42141  (Online Only)
I have worked with a multitude of issues ranging from PTSD, first responders, foster care/adoption, anxiety, depression, developmental and behavioral issues along with grief/Loss, and transitional issues as well.
C.S.Lewis once said, " You can't go back and change the beginning but you can start where you are and change the ending". I believe that you must meet the client where they are currently. To provide a safe environment to alleviate crises, identify current needs, process past issues/traumas, and identify future goals for self. Also, to help clients learn to change negative behaviors/habits, to identify their own strengths, and develop positive coping skills in order to improve their quality of life. I believe your past does not have to define you but you can use it to propel yourself forward into the future that you hope to have.
I have worked with a multitude of issues ranging from PTSD, first responders, foster care/adoption, anxiety, depression, developmental and behavioral issues along with grief/Loss, and transitional issues as well.
C.S.Lewis once said, " You can't go back and change the beginning but you can start where you are and change the ending". I believe that you must meet the client where they are currently. To provide a safe environment to alleviate crises, identify current needs, process past issues/traumas, and identify future goals for self. Also, to help clients learn to change negative behaviors/habits, to identify their own strengths, and develop positive coping skills in order to improve their quality of life. I believe your past does not have to define you but you can use it to propel yourself forward into the future that you hope to have.
(270) 479-1158 View (270) 479-1158
Photo of Lindsey Young, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bowling Green, KY 42101
At Evolving Lives LLC, I provide therapy to adults, youth, and families who are seeking relief from a wide array of barriers in their life. These could range from stress, anxiety, depression, grief, life adjustments, trauma, relationship difficulties, and parenting challenges. I collaborate with clients to help them envision the life they desire to have, what their personal strengths are, and small, manageable steps they can take towards their goals.
At Evolving Lives LLC, I provide therapy to adults, youth, and families who are seeking relief from a wide array of barriers in their life. These could range from stress, anxiety, depression, grief, life adjustments, trauma, relationship difficulties, and parenting challenges. I collaborate with clients to help them envision the life they desire to have, what their personal strengths are, and small, manageable steps they can take towards their goals.
(270) 506-4047 View (270) 506-4047
Photo of Cassidy Campbell, LPCC
Cassidy Campbell
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Owensboro, KY 42303  (Online Only)
My passion is to help clients recognize the true root issues that are occurring, given their specific symptoms, with the goal of addressing these issues in order to lead healthy and hopeful lives. My passion is utilizing techniques from primarily Gestalt and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy treatment modalities, as well as others that seem best suited for each individual client. I have utilized these approaches to successfully help individuals overcome grief, trauma, loss, and poor self-esteem issues, among other things.
My passion is to help clients recognize the true root issues that are occurring, given their specific symptoms, with the goal of addressing these issues in order to lead healthy and hopeful lives. My passion is utilizing techniques from primarily Gestalt and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy treatment modalities, as well as others that seem best suited for each individual client. I have utilized these approaches to successfully help individuals overcome grief, trauma, loss, and poor self-esteem issues, among other things.
(270) 372-3252 View (270) 372-3252
Photo of Chelsey Gorham - Innovative Family Therapy, MSc, LMFT, GC-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Innovative Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, LMFT, GC-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223
All of our therapists are trained in many types of therapy, and each have their own specialties such as grief counseling, anxiety, marital/couple's issues, depression, behavioral issues, parenting, trauma, play therapy, addiction and many more.
Immediate openings for daytime, evening, & weekends for in person and teletherapy sessions! We understand that life is full of ups and downs that sometimes lead us to feeling overwhelmed and unsure what steps to take. Our goal at IFT is to provide that space where you can find the support needed to navigate the challenges you are facing, and to not feel alone in your journey. We are that unbiased someone you can put your trust in to help improve your mental health and quality of life. We have an amazing team of therapists ready to provide the support and guidance you need!
All of our therapists are trained in many types of therapy, and each have their own specialties such as grief counseling, anxiety, marital/couple's issues, depression, behavioral issues, parenting, trauma, play therapy, addiction and many more.
Immediate openings for daytime, evening, & weekends for in person and teletherapy sessions! We understand that life is full of ups and downs that sometimes lead us to feeling overwhelmed and unsure what steps to take. Our goal at IFT is to provide that space where you can find the support needed to navigate the challenges you are facing, and to not feel alone in your journey. We are that unbiased someone you can put your trust in to help improve your mental health and quality of life. We have an amazing team of therapists ready to provide the support and guidance you need!
(502) 612-9129 View (502) 612-9129
Photo of Michelle Ivy Oak, MSEd, MMFT, LMFT, CHPS®, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Ivy Oak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSEd, MMFT, LMFT, CHPS®
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40243
I understand what it is like to look in the mirror and not recognize yourself, the struggles of raising a family with and without a partner, the frustrations of children who experience behavior and/or academic problems in school, the pain of a failing relationship, the stressors and pressures of being a C-Suite executive, the anguish of loss.
I believe everyone has the power within themselves to heal, grow, and change. I can be the person who helps you unlock your beautiful, authentic, inner spirit no matter what your age, background, or lifestyle. My therapeutic interventions vary with the needs of the people who entrust me to participate in their journey via a trauma-informed lens. I am a believer of being kind to yourself and others, being present, being mindful, and living your best life.
I understand what it is like to look in the mirror and not recognize yourself, the struggles of raising a family with and without a partner, the frustrations of children who experience behavior and/or academic problems in school, the pain of a failing relationship, the stressors and pressures of being a C-Suite executive, the anguish of loss.
I believe everyone has the power within themselves to heal, grow, and change. I can be the person who helps you unlock your beautiful, authentic, inner spirit no matter what your age, background, or lifestyle. My therapeutic interventions vary with the needs of the people who entrust me to participate in their journey via a trauma-informed lens. I am a believer of being kind to yourself and others, being present, being mindful, and living your best life.
(502) 273-5306 View (502) 273-5306
Photo of Bethany Killian, LPCA
Bethany Killian
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, KY 42134  (Online Only)
I work with adults and teens though trauma and related disorders, grief and bereavement, identity issues, and of course, disability and chronic illness.
Hi there, and welcome! I’m Bethany, your friendly neighborhood queer, goth mental health counselor on wheels. Cerebral palsy and a lifetime as a wheelchair user has given me unique insight into chronic illness, anxiety, and feeling “othered” by society. You aren’t broken and you certainly don’t have to feel like a passive participant in your own life. Rock bottom often provides the most fertile soil for positive growth. I can’t wait to see what blooms for you. LLAP!
I work with adults and teens though trauma and related disorders, grief and bereavement, identity issues, and of course, disability and chronic illness.
Hi there, and welcome! I’m Bethany, your friendly neighborhood queer, goth mental health counselor on wheels. Cerebral palsy and a lifetime as a wheelchair user has given me unique insight into chronic illness, anxiety, and feeling “othered” by society. You aren’t broken and you certainly don’t have to feel like a passive participant in your own life. Rock bottom often provides the most fertile soil for positive growth. I can’t wait to see what blooms for you. LLAP!
(270) 447-5258 View (270) 447-5258
Cassady Cobb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bardstown, KY 40004
Life can be challenging with many obstacles to overcome. Recognizing the need for change is your first step to starting over and improving your life. From a person-in-environment perspective, I look at the individuals entire environmental stressors that have left you feeling overwhelmed, at a loss, and a need for change. In my practice, I provide individual, family, couple, and group therapy services to children, adolescents, foster care children, adults, families, military families, and couples. Life is tough, you shouldn't have to go through it alone!
Life can be challenging with many obstacles to overcome. Recognizing the need for change is your first step to starting over and improving your life. From a person-in-environment perspective, I look at the individuals entire environmental stressors that have left you feeling overwhelmed, at a loss, and a need for change. In my practice, I provide individual, family, couple, and group therapy services to children, adolescents, foster care children, adults, families, military families, and couples. Life is tough, you shouldn't have to go through it alone!
(270) 207-9310 View (270) 207-9310
Photo of Heather Ann Artman - Heather Artman, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Artman, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40206
Not accepting new clients at this time. I offer in-person and virtual sessions. I support individuals struggling with ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, low-self worth, sexual issues, and grief as well as work with couples who need support navigating through challenging situations such as infidelity, reestablishing intimacy, sexless relationships, or problematic sexual behaviors. Everyone at some point in their life experiences struggles, fears, relationship issues, or life transitions.
Not accepting new clients at this time. I offer in-person and virtual sessions. I support individuals struggling with ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, low-self worth, sexual issues, and grief as well as work with couples who need support navigating through challenging situations such as infidelity, reestablishing intimacy, sexless relationships, or problematic sexual behaviors. Everyone at some point in their life experiences struggles, fears, relationship issues, or life transitions.
Photo of Crystal Farmer, LPCC
Crystal Farmer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Crystal! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, and I have a passion for working with adults 18 and over in developing skills to effectively manage depression, anxiety, stress, ADHD, anger issues, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, substance abuse, and grief & loss. I understand from personal experience many of the challenges that come with these issues and strongly believe that holistic well-being involves balance of mind, body, & spirit.
Hi, I'm Crystal! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, and I have a passion for working with adults 18 and over in developing skills to effectively manage depression, anxiety, stress, ADHD, anger issues, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, substance abuse, and grief & loss. I understand from personal experience many of the challenges that come with these issues and strongly believe that holistic well-being involves balance of mind, body, & spirit.
(859) 374-3598 View (859) 374-3598
Photo of Stephanie Weaver, LPCC-S, Counselor
Stephanie Weaver
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40243
I have experience working with adults and children. In my work with children, I have helped families address ADHD, anxiety, adjustment disorders, grief, trauma and attachment concerns. In my work with adults, I have guided persons in working through depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, trauma and relationship concerns. We can work to increase your awareness of the unconscious motivations and historical explanations for your current patterns. We can also utilize techniques to help you change your negative thinking, manage stress, improve your mood, and enhance the quality of your relationships.
I have experience working with adults and children. In my work with children, I have helped families address ADHD, anxiety, adjustment disorders, grief, trauma and attachment concerns. In my work with adults, I have guided persons in working through depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, trauma and relationship concerns. We can work to increase your awareness of the unconscious motivations and historical explanations for your current patterns. We can also utilize techniques to help you change your negative thinking, manage stress, improve your mood, and enhance the quality of your relationships.
(833) 256-6220 View (833) 256-6220
Photo of Dr. Jody A Giles - Giles Professional Counseling & Consulting, LPCC-S, PhD, MA
Giles Professional Counseling & Consulting
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
I work with relationship issues, children, veterans, families in conflict, grief issues, and divorce.
Stress, anxiety, and depression are issues that affect not just you but also your relationships with your partner, children, and other important people There is no more important work than healing hearts between people who care for each other. My approach combines the insight oriented work of humanistic counseling with cognitive-behavioral techniques. Psychotherapy is usually very effective in helping individuals and families deal with deep seated issues by having a space to listen and to talk. A space to help you reframe perceptions and problems in a healthier way.
I work with relationship issues, children, veterans, families in conflict, grief issues, and divorce.
Stress, anxiety, and depression are issues that affect not just you but also your relationships with your partner, children, and other important people There is no more important work than healing hearts between people who care for each other. My approach combines the insight oriented work of humanistic counseling with cognitive-behavioral techniques. Psychotherapy is usually very effective in helping individuals and families deal with deep seated issues by having a space to listen and to talk. A space to help you reframe perceptions and problems in a healthier way.
View
Photo of Ashley Vicari, LPC, LPCC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Vicari
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42101
I truly believe that you can live the life that you desire without the pain of anxiety, depression, loss, etc overshadowing you forever.
Hi! I'm Ashley. I've been practicing Therapy for 10 years and am honored to have sat across from so many incredible souls. Life can be so beautiful. It can also be so incredibly hard and challenging to navigate. I'd love to support you as you seek healing and restoration. Having worked in this field for years, my specialties include anxiety, depression, eating disorders and body image, life adjustments, parenthood, infertility and perinatal support, and women's issues among other things.
I truly believe that you can live the life that you desire without the pain of anxiety, depression, loss, etc overshadowing you forever.
Hi! I'm Ashley. I've been practicing Therapy for 10 years and am honored to have sat across from so many incredible souls. Life can be so beautiful. It can also be so incredibly hard and challenging to navigate. I'd love to support you as you seek healing and restoration. Having worked in this field for years, my specialties include anxiety, depression, eating disorders and body image, life adjustments, parenthood, infertility and perinatal support, and women's issues among other things.
(270) 713-6158 View (270) 713-6158
Photo of Tangi Jones, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tangi Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40243
Clients may include partners considering divorce, marriage, remarriage, understanding the challenges of a blended family, individuals dealing with a death in the family, life transitions, low self-esteem, or children in foster homes.
Maybe you have been struggling with relationship issues, your new blended family, feeling anxious, depressed or experiencing trauma. Many individuals, particularly in marginalized communities, fear the stigma of exploring counseling as a form of self-care. My technique is to guide individuals, partners and families in a collaborative effort to develop healthy coping skills, improved communication and an enhanced self-concept to address many of life's challenging issues. Sometimes we just need a road map to help navigate adversity and bring about positive change,
Clients may include partners considering divorce, marriage, remarriage, understanding the challenges of a blended family, individuals dealing with a death in the family, life transitions, low self-esteem, or children in foster homes.
Maybe you have been struggling with relationship issues, your new blended family, feeling anxious, depressed or experiencing trauma. Many individuals, particularly in marginalized communities, fear the stigma of exploring counseling as a form of self-care. My technique is to guide individuals, partners and families in a collaborative effort to develop healthy coping skills, improved communication and an enhanced self-concept to address many of life's challenging issues. Sometimes we just need a road map to help navigate adversity and bring about positive change,
(502) 912-1630 View (502) 912-1630
Photo of Danielle Chase, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Chase
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40220
I specialize in dealing with issues regarding relationship stress, sexual challenges, sexual orientation, gender identity, communication, life transition, depression, anxiety, hopelessness, problem solving, conflict resolution, divorce, and loss. I really enjoy working with LBGTQIAP, Consensual Non-Monogamy, and Kink Relationships and Individuals. I would be honored to work in a collaborative fashion with you to foster growth and change through individual, relationship, premarital, marital, divorce, or sexual therapy.
I specialize in dealing with issues regarding relationship stress, sexual challenges, sexual orientation, gender identity, communication, life transition, depression, anxiety, hopelessness, problem solving, conflict resolution, divorce, and loss. I really enjoy working with LBGTQIAP, Consensual Non-Monogamy, and Kink Relationships and Individuals. I would be honored to work in a collaborative fashion with you to foster growth and change through individual, relationship, premarital, marital, divorce, or sexual therapy.
(502) 289-6526 View (502) 289-6526
Photo of Jami Ivey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jami Ivey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40214  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Jami Ivey. I'm excited to meet you! Together we'll work on your therapy goals one step at a time. I see clients with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and grief. Generally, I work with adults and adolescents. We all go through different stressors and/or life changes: so talking with someone can be beneficial. Therapy is a great way to obtain support, insight, and guidance through difficult times. I enjoy working with people who are goal-oriented and want to work to better themselves.
Hello, I'm Jami Ivey. I'm excited to meet you! Together we'll work on your therapy goals one step at a time. I see clients with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and grief. Generally, I work with adults and adolescents. We all go through different stressors and/or life changes: so talking with someone can be beneficial. Therapy is a great way to obtain support, insight, and guidance through difficult times. I enjoy working with people who are goal-oriented and want to work to better themselves.
(502) 771-8801 View (502) 771-8801
Photo of Chaslyn Tucker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chaslyn Tucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40202  (Online Only)
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in both Indiana and Kentucky. I have been in the social work field since 2016. Upon receiving my Masters degree, I pursued a career as a therapist. I am privileged to have been allowed the opportunity to work with several varying population groups and cultures. I currently provide therapy through a medication assisted treatment (MAT) facility and primary care office. However, I also provide private therapy sessions to both children and adults, focusing on anxiety, depression, grief, and personal growth.
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in both Indiana and Kentucky. I have been in the social work field since 2016. Upon receiving my Masters degree, I pursued a career as a therapist. I am privileged to have been allowed the opportunity to work with several varying population groups and cultures. I currently provide therapy through a medication assisted treatment (MAT) facility and primary care office. However, I also provide private therapy sessions to both children and adults, focusing on anxiety, depression, grief, and personal growth.
(859) 212-3166 View (859) 212-3166
Photo of Ann Catherine Holloway, MEd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ann Catherine Holloway
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223
I facilitate Ups & Downs, a grief/depression/anxiety support group in person at 9107 Taylorsville Rd.
Your life is a story that is continuously being written. Together we will work to resolve individual, couples, marital, or family issues in a safe and comfortable atmosphere to help you become happier with your life. I have 35 yrs. experience with kids, couples, & families. A retired teacher & LMFT therapist doing systems therapy & trauma work. Facilitator for Prepare/Enrich & do couple evaluations for our local churches. I also work with medical professionals in a confidential setting. I’m NL Certified in equine therapy & offer this as an addition to regular therapy. Here to support & guide you. Reach out… you'll be glad you did!
I facilitate Ups & Downs, a grief/depression/anxiety support group in person at 9107 Taylorsville Rd.
Your life is a story that is continuously being written. Together we will work to resolve individual, couples, marital, or family issues in a safe and comfortable atmosphere to help you become happier with your life. I have 35 yrs. experience with kids, couples, & families. A retired teacher & LMFT therapist doing systems therapy & trauma work. Facilitator for Prepare/Enrich & do couple evaluations for our local churches. I also work with medical professionals in a confidential setting. I’m NL Certified in equine therapy & offer this as an addition to regular therapy. Here to support & guide you. Reach out… you'll be glad you did!
(502) 287-0837 View (502) 287-0837
Photo of Catherine Ann Courson, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Ann Courson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40213  (Online Only)
I have training and experience in Cognitive/Behavioral therapy, stress reduction, anger management, and grief counseling.
In this rapidly changing world, stress, anxiety, and depression will sometimes take hold of your mind. This could leave you feeling on the edge of an emotional cliff. At these times it is okay, and important to reach out for a hand up. My early training in chemical dependency, hospice, and trauma counseling has equipped me to guide you through the reduction of many life problems.
I have training and experience in Cognitive/Behavioral therapy, stress reduction, anger management, and grief counseling.
In this rapidly changing world, stress, anxiety, and depression will sometimes take hold of your mind. This could leave you feeling on the edge of an emotional cliff. At these times it is okay, and important to reach out for a hand up. My early training in chemical dependency, hospice, and trauma counseling has equipped me to guide you through the reduction of many life problems.
(502) 473-7028 View (502) 473-7028

See more therapy options for Edmonson County

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.