Grief Therapists in Irvine, KY

Photo of Tamie Proctor - Newleaf Counseling Services, LLC, LPCC, NCC, Counselor
Newleaf Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Irvine, KY 40336
At Newleaf Counseling Services our clients are treated with respect, dignity, and great care during the therapeutic services. We serve clients with a range of emotional and behavioral concerns by assisting our clients to develop coping skills to manage difficult emotions and life events. In a comfortable and supportive environment, we offer a personalized approach tailored to client’s individual needs. We serve clients age 2 – adult. We treat many mental health concerns including but not limited to: ADHD, Attachment Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Mood, Trauma, PTSD, Divorce, Grief/ Loss, and Anger.
At Newleaf Counseling Services our clients are treated with respect, dignity, and great care during the therapeutic services. We serve clients with a range of emotional and behavioral concerns by assisting our clients to develop coping skills to manage difficult emotions and life events. In a comfortable and supportive environment, we offer a personalized approach tailored to client’s individual needs. We serve clients age 2 – adult. We treat many mental health concerns including but not limited to: ADHD, Attachment Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Mood, Trauma, PTSD, Divorce, Grief/ Loss, and Anger.
(859) 544-2497 View (859) 544-2497
Photo of Tonya Gayle Lunsford - Trinity Health Group, LLC, MEd, LPCC, Counselor
Trinity Health Group, LLC
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, KY 40336
I have worked with children and adults aged 5 and up with various disorders including substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, ODD, Bipolar, mood disorders, personality disorders, and those in the LGBTQ+ community. Have been in the role of Estill County Specialty Court Counselor as an advocate for individuals in Drug Court and recovery. I enjoy working with and welcoming all individuals. “Being able to be your true self is one of the strongest components of good mental health.” - Lauren Fogel Mersy, n.d. My goal is to help you build your good mental health by utilizing evidence-based therapy.
I have worked with children and adults aged 5 and up with various disorders including substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, ODD, Bipolar, mood disorders, personality disorders, and those in the LGBTQ+ community. Have been in the role of Estill County Specialty Court Counselor as an advocate for individuals in Drug Court and recovery. I enjoy working with and welcoming all individuals. “Being able to be your true self is one of the strongest components of good mental health.” - Lauren Fogel Mersy, n.d. My goal is to help you build your good mental health by utilizing evidence-based therapy.
(606) 603-3349 View (606) 603-3349
Photo of Daniel Sulfridge - Living Well Counseling, MA, LPCC
Living Well Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvine, KY 40336
Do you find yourself backed into a corner, not knowing what to do? Perhaps it's your relationship, the choices you have made, or an addiction that has lead you on the path you're on. I've assisted many people in finding a new perspective so they can then learn to make new and healthier choices. My hope is for everyone to have a better and more productive life.
Do you find yourself backed into a corner, not knowing what to do? Perhaps it's your relationship, the choices you have made, or an addiction that has lead you on the path you're on. I've assisted many people in finding a new perspective so they can then learn to make new and healthier choices. My hope is for everyone to have a better and more productive life.
(859) 449-7742 View (859) 449-7742
Photo of Lisa Parsons - Parsons Counseling & Play Therapy Center-Richmond
Parsons Counseling & Play Therapy Center-Richmond
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
Irvine, KY 40336
Parsons Counseling offers services for ALL ages. We have three counselors working in Richmond to serve your counseling needs: Brittany Wilson, LPCC, Laura Weitkamp, LPCC, RPT, Taylor Speaks, LPCC, and Savanna Smith, LPCA. We understand that it is difficult to go to a stranger and talk about the most difficult times in your life. It is our desire that counseling is a process that is comfortable for you. You will learn coping skills that you can immediately start using in your daily life. Our clients from 2 to 75 all report that play therapy is a wonderful way to get to the root of their issues.
Parsons Counseling offers services for ALL ages. We have three counselors working in Richmond to serve your counseling needs: Brittany Wilson, LPCC, Laura Weitkamp, LPCC, RPT, Taylor Speaks, LPCC, and Savanna Smith, LPCA. We understand that it is difficult to go to a stranger and talk about the most difficult times in your life. It is our desire that counseling is a process that is comfortable for you. You will learn coping skills that you can immediately start using in your daily life. Our clients from 2 to 75 all report that play therapy is a wonderful way to get to the root of their issues.
(859) 428-7862 View (859) 428-7862
Photo of Carrie Leigh Koontz - Lexington Counseling & Psychiatry Richmond Office, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lexington Counseling & Psychiatry Richmond Office
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Irvine, KY 40336
We help individuals and families of all ages with issues, concerns, and problems they experience in life. Our counseling services are specifically designed for the people who live and work here in Kentucky, their families and friends, and anyone who needs assistance with life. LCP strives to assist people to reach their potential and any goals they may desire. Most of our clients are referred by the people we help. Our commitment is to the person seeking services. Confidentiality is very important to us. The ethical practice of our office is first class.
We help individuals and families of all ages with issues, concerns, and problems they experience in life. Our counseling services are specifically designed for the people who live and work here in Kentucky, their families and friends, and anyone who needs assistance with life. LCP strives to assist people to reach their potential and any goals they may desire. Most of our clients are referred by the people we help. Our commitment is to the person seeking services. Confidentiality is very important to us. The ethical practice of our office is first class.
(859) 217-6072 View (859) 217-6072

Online Therapists

Photo of Stephanie Fister, MA,  , LPCA, Counselor
Stephanie Fister
Counselor, MA, , LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
As a clinical mental health counselor in the Florence area, I offer an accepting therapeutic environment for clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, work or parenting stress, self-esteem issues, and conflict.
People come to counseling for many reasons. Maybe it's stress from a difficult job, or a tumultuous marriage. Maybe it's the adjustment to parenthood or the loss of a precious loved one. Maybe we have always felt a little empty inside and realize that we would like to feel a little better about ourselves or about the life that we have created. Sometimes, we are stuck and overwhelmed and we don't even know why.  We just want more out of life and we don't know where to begin. In any case, counseling offers a unique opportunity to have a safe space to explore and talk about the things that mean the most to us.
As a clinical mental health counselor in the Florence area, I offer an accepting therapeutic environment for clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, work or parenting stress, self-esteem issues, and conflict.
People come to counseling for many reasons. Maybe it's stress from a difficult job, or a tumultuous marriage. Maybe it's the adjustment to parenthood or the loss of a precious loved one. Maybe we have always felt a little empty inside and realize that we would like to feel a little better about ourselves or about the life that we have created. Sometimes, we are stuck and overwhelmed and we don't even know why.  We just want more out of life and we don't know where to begin. In any case, counseling offers a unique opportunity to have a safe space to explore and talk about the things that mean the most to us.
(859) 605-3912 View (859) 605-3912
Photo of David Kingsbury, LPCC-S, LCADC, NCC, ICAADC
David Kingsbury
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, LCADC, NCC, ICAADC
Verified Verified
Columbia, KY 42728
Over the years, I have worked with a diverse client population, addressing areas such as severe mental illness including schizophrenia & bipolar disorder, developmental & intellectual disorders, child and adolescent therapy, anxiety & depression, marriage and family therapy, grief, substance abuse, trauma, and group counseling.
Are you looking for someone passionate about helping you overcome obstacles, achieve happiness, or discover your life purpose? Finding my own recovery and faith, along with helping others conquer challenges similar to my own, are major motivators for my personal mission and professional work. I see my career less as a job and more as a calling. My heart is to make a difference in your life and to help you overcome anxiety, depression, and emotional pain. So, really, each encounter is an opportunity, a chance to give back some of what I’ve been given.
Over the years, I have worked with a diverse client population, addressing areas such as severe mental illness including schizophrenia & bipolar disorder, developmental & intellectual disorders, child and adolescent therapy, anxiety & depression, marriage and family therapy, grief, substance abuse, trauma, and group counseling.
Are you looking for someone passionate about helping you overcome obstacles, achieve happiness, or discover your life purpose? Finding my own recovery and faith, along with helping others conquer challenges similar to my own, are major motivators for my personal mission and professional work. I see my career less as a job and more as a calling. My heart is to make a difference in your life and to help you overcome anxiety, depression, and emotional pain. So, really, each encounter is an opportunity, a chance to give back some of what I’ve been given.
(270) 213-6302 View (270) 213-6302
Photo of Dr. Beverly Weinhold, DMin, LPCC, CCMHC, Counselor
Dr. Beverly Weinhold
Counselor, DMin, LPCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is rooted in building trusting relationship with clients and intersecting spirituality with evidence based psychology. Let my 20+ years experience as a licensed counselor and trained spiritual director empower you with clearer perspective, concrete tools to make change and skills to sustain stronger relationships. If you struggle with anxiety, grief or transition; suffer estrangement from an adult child or experience the life-long effects of abuse from your past, I can help you. Together we will target the issues, learn coping skills and create an action plan opens options for greater confidence and deeper peace.
My practice is rooted in building trusting relationship with clients and intersecting spirituality with evidence based psychology. Let my 20+ years experience as a licensed counselor and trained spiritual director empower you with clearer perspective, concrete tools to make change and skills to sustain stronger relationships. If you struggle with anxiety, grief or transition; suffer estrangement from an adult child or experience the life-long effects of abuse from your past, I can help you. Together we will target the issues, learn coping skills and create an action plan opens options for greater confidence and deeper peace.
(978) 924-8431 View (978) 924-8431
Photo of Chaslyn Tucker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chaslyn Tucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40504  (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 Jayan Thomas, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jayan Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40243
Have you been told that it is all in your head, or that there are no medical explanations for your symptoms? Or maybe you have received a chronic illness diagnosis and aren't quite sure how to cope. You might be at a place in your life when you feel ready to tackle past hurt and grief and find a sense of peace. My practice focuses exclusively on individuals and family members coping with the diagnosis of a medical illness.
Have you been told that it is all in your head, or that there are no medical explanations for your symptoms? Or maybe you have received a chronic illness diagnosis and aren't quite sure how to cope. You might be at a place in your life when you feel ready to tackle past hurt and grief and find a sense of peace. My practice focuses exclusively on individuals and family members coping with the diagnosis of a medical illness.
(502) 547-9204 View (502) 547-9204
Photo of Rebecca Kendall Patterson - Nurture Nest, LPCC-S, RPT-S
Nurture Nest
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Danville, KY 40422
Are you ready to take back your life from Anxiety, Depression, fear, self-doubt, anger, grief, trauma, or some other debilitating symptom? Do you want to experience support and therapy in a way you have never received it before? Are you searching for real compassion, authentic care, and someone you can trust? If so then we are the counseling practice you have been seeking. Nurture Nest provides counseling services for clients of all ages and our therapists are the most trustworthy, competent, caring in this business. Let us show you how different therapy can be!
Are you ready to take back your life from Anxiety, Depression, fear, self-doubt, anger, grief, trauma, or some other debilitating symptom? Do you want to experience support and therapy in a way you have never received it before? Are you searching for real compassion, authentic care, and someone you can trust? If so then we are the counseling practice you have been seeking. Nurture Nest provides counseling services for clients of all ages and our therapists are the most trustworthy, competent, caring in this business. Let us show you how different therapy can be!
(859) 765-7055 View (859) 765-7055
Photo of Kara Fresh McMeekin, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kara Fresh McMeekin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I'm trained in relational/marital issues, PTSD, play therapy, parenting and blended families, symptoms of depression and anxiety, divorce, grief, etc.
Therapy serves a unique purpose to each individual. I'm committed to helping you, your partner, or your family work towards the goals and individual hopes you identify as important to your life and relationships. I focus on creating an atmosphere that is safe and provides you with a place to share your story without fear of judgment. Therapy can help you find solutions and learn skills to help you cope with daily stresses, relational and marital problems, past trauma, job stress, grief and loss, etc. I can offer professional guidance and support as you identify and work towards your goals.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I'm trained in relational/marital issues, PTSD, play therapy, parenting and blended families, symptoms of depression and anxiety, divorce, grief, etc.
Therapy serves a unique purpose to each individual. I'm committed to helping you, your partner, or your family work towards the goals and individual hopes you identify as important to your life and relationships. I focus on creating an atmosphere that is safe and provides you with a place to share your story without fear of judgment. Therapy can help you find solutions and learn skills to help you cope with daily stresses, relational and marital problems, past trauma, job stress, grief and loss, etc. I can offer professional guidance and support as you identify and work towards your goals.
(859) 904-2789 View (859) 904-2789
Photo of Marsha Ritchey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marsha Ritchey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40509
Marsha "˜Nacole' Ritchey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who received her Bachelor's and Master's degrees from the University of Kentucky. Nacole's approach to therapy is to seek growth, change and acceptance through combining evidence-based treatment approaches. She has experience working in outpatient, residential and intensive in-home services with both mental health and substance abuse clients. Nacole has experience working with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Anger Management, an array of life adjustment challenges and grief therapy.
Marsha "˜Nacole' Ritchey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who received her Bachelor's and Master's degrees from the University of Kentucky. Nacole's approach to therapy is to seek growth, change and acceptance through combining evidence-based treatment approaches. She has experience working in outpatient, residential and intensive in-home services with both mental health and substance abuse clients. Nacole has experience working with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Anger Management, an array of life adjustment challenges and grief therapy.
(859) 724-5657 View (859) 724-5657
Photo of Andrew M Davidson, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew M Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222
I have a vast amount of experience in working with people struggling with substance abuse, co-dependency, early childhood and adult trauma, mild mental health issues, grief, difficulty in transitions with work, family and relationships and stress.
I work with individuals, families, couples, and adolescents facing tough challenges, transitions, and growth opportunities. I have over 16 years in practice with experience treating general mental health issues, substance abuse, co-dependency, trauma and grief. I work from a solution-focused, person-centered approach and address not only the individual in therapy, but their family unit or family of choice. I believe that individuals have the strength to create meaningful change in their lives, and as a helping professional, I offer support, facilitate and witness that change in a positive, friendly and collaborative way.
I have a vast amount of experience in working with people struggling with substance abuse, co-dependency, early childhood and adult trauma, mild mental health issues, grief, difficulty in transitions with work, family and relationships and stress.
I work with individuals, families, couples, and adolescents facing tough challenges, transitions, and growth opportunities. I have over 16 years in practice with experience treating general mental health issues, substance abuse, co-dependency, trauma and grief. I work from a solution-focused, person-centered approach and address not only the individual in therapy, but their family unit or family of choice. I believe that individuals have the strength to create meaningful change in their lives, and as a helping professional, I offer support, facilitate and witness that change in a positive, friendly and collaborative way.
(502) 443-9220 View (502) 443-9220
Photo of Dr. Tomerial Brooks - Dr. Tomerial Brooks, LCSW, MBA , DSW, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Tomerial Brooks, LCSW, MBA
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40517  (Online Only)
I have training in addictions as well as dual disorders, anxiety/depression, trauma and grief related concerns.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker the past 16 years, I have worked with a variety of clients including Adolescents, Adults and Emerging Adults. I enjoy working with adults most. Having worked at a CMHC the majority of my career, I gained skills in working with adults presenting with a range of concerns including trauma, mood disorders, addictions, grief, anxiety and depression as well as life transition changes. I also have experience with anger management, parenting issues and multicultural concerns. I hold a range of clinical expertise and experience working with adults from a place of compassion, understanding and in a judgement free environment.
I have training in addictions as well as dual disorders, anxiety/depression, trauma and grief related concerns.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker the past 16 years, I have worked with a variety of clients including Adolescents, Adults and Emerging Adults. I enjoy working with adults most. Having worked at a CMHC the majority of my career, I gained skills in working with adults presenting with a range of concerns including trauma, mood disorders, addictions, grief, anxiety and depression as well as life transition changes. I also have experience with anger management, parenting issues and multicultural concerns. I hold a range of clinical expertise and experience working with adults from a place of compassion, understanding and in a judgement free environment.
(859) 298-3487 View (859) 298-3487
Photo of Zoe Beckhart, MA, LPCC
Zoe Beckhart
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40503
Hi! I am an LPCC in Kentucky and trained in working with adults with a variety of mental health needs, such as anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem/self-confidence, stress related concerns, adjustment issues, grief and substance use. I strive to meet my clients where they are and ensure my office is a safe space for them to process any issues or challenges they are facing to help in achieving their goals.
Hi! I am an LPCC in Kentucky and trained in working with adults with a variety of mental health needs, such as anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem/self-confidence, stress related concerns, adjustment issues, grief and substance use. I strive to meet my clients where they are and ensure my office is a safe space for them to process any issues or challenges they are facing to help in achieving their goals.
(859) 517-4189 View (859) 517-4189
Photo of Tracy Roberts, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracy Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40205  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with children and adults whose lives are impacted by past or current traumas ( loss, abuse, neglect, abandonment, divorce, etc.
I help individuals, couples and families identify and resolve the areas which are preventing them from enjoying their lives and relationships to the fullest.
I have extensive experience working with children and adults whose lives are impacted by past or current traumas ( loss, abuse, neglect, abandonment, divorce, etc.
I help individuals, couples and families identify and resolve the areas which are preventing them from enjoying their lives and relationships to the fullest.
(502) 237-8342 View (502) 237-8342
Photo of Ellen Morton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Morton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40207
Hey there! I'm Ellen Morton, and I've dedicated almost a decade to practicing social work and clinical practice since 2016. As a certified clinical trauma professional, I thrive on working with individuals of all ages, helping them find the care and healing they need to foster a positive sense of self and others. If you're dealing with issues like anxiety, trauma, depression, grief/ loss, or relational conflicts, I'm here to help. Ever considered EMDR? I'm currently open to new clients and I'm genuinely excited about the possibility of working with you.
Hey there! I'm Ellen Morton, and I've dedicated almost a decade to practicing social work and clinical practice since 2016. As a certified clinical trauma professional, I thrive on working with individuals of all ages, helping them find the care and healing they need to foster a positive sense of self and others. If you're dealing with issues like anxiety, trauma, depression, grief/ loss, or relational conflicts, I'm here to help. Ever considered EMDR? I'm currently open to new clients and I'm genuinely excited about the possibility of working with you.
(502) 427-7662 View (502) 427-7662
Photo of Megan Martin, MS, LPCC-S, Counselor
Megan Martin
Counselor, MS, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
Healing is for everyone! My passion is in working with the early childhood population to help shape and nurture the emotional and social development of our young ones. Does your child demonstrate any of the following issues: struggles at home/school, feeling sad/worried, peer/sibling conflict, out of control behaviors, anxiety/depression, social skills deficits, anger/aggression, emotional dysregulation, family conflict, trouble focusing/staying on task, divorce/family transitions, impulsive behaviors, grief, etc.? If so, mental health therapy can benefit you and your child!
Healing is for everyone! My passion is in working with the early childhood population to help shape and nurture the emotional and social development of our young ones. Does your child demonstrate any of the following issues: struggles at home/school, feeling sad/worried, peer/sibling conflict, out of control behaviors, anxiety/depression, social skills deficits, anger/aggression, emotional dysregulation, family conflict, trouble focusing/staying on task, divorce/family transitions, impulsive behaviors, grief, etc.? If so, mental health therapy can benefit you and your child!
(859) 710-9375 View (859) 710-9375
Photo of Courteney Nickodem, LPCC-S, Counselor
Courteney Nickodem
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40503
I work with individuals with a wide variety of mental health concerns, which include but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, mood, anger management, adjustment disorders and behavioral concerns.
Hello! I'm so happy you're here, whether this be your first time making the brave decision to strengthen your mental health, or if you have been to counseling before- you are all welcome here! My name is Courteney Nickodem and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor-Supervisor who has a passion for helping, supporting and encouraging my clients in a direct and result oriented setting. I utilize evidence-based practices and therapeutic techniques including: cognitive behavioral therapy, client centered therapy, strength based intervention, as well as an option to provide faith based therapy.
I work with individuals with a wide variety of mental health concerns, which include but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, mood, anger management, adjustment disorders and behavioral concerns.
Hello! I'm so happy you're here, whether this be your first time making the brave decision to strengthen your mental health, or if you have been to counseling before- you are all welcome here! My name is Courteney Nickodem and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor-Supervisor who has a passion for helping, supporting and encouraging my clients in a direct and result oriented setting. I utilize evidence-based practices and therapeutic techniques including: cognitive behavioral therapy, client centered therapy, strength based intervention, as well as an option to provide faith based therapy.
(859) 309-5411 View (859) 309-5411

See more therapy options for Irvine

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.