Grief Therapists in Harrisburg, NC

Photo of Sarah Webber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Webber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, NC 28075
Life can bring waves of transition; many are excellent, and others are more complex. I enjoy partnering with older adults and their families to provide support and explore ways to improve the quality of life for all. Typical areas of exploration may include retirement, end of life, grief, loss of independence, caregiver stress, role reversal/confusion, depression, isolation, anxiety, and life inventory. I offer a holistic and client-centered approach embracing empowerment, narratives, and strengths to rebalance joy and fulfillment as life transitions.
Life can bring waves of transition; many are excellent, and others are more complex. I enjoy partnering with older adults and their families to provide support and explore ways to improve the quality of life for all. Typical areas of exploration may include retirement, end of life, grief, loss of independence, caregiver stress, role reversal/confusion, depression, isolation, anxiety, and life inventory. I offer a holistic and client-centered approach embracing empowerment, narratives, and strengths to rebalance joy and fulfillment as life transitions.
(336) 962-6516 View (336) 962-6516
Photo of Katherine Sherrill, MA, LCMHC, MT-BC, Counselor
Katherine Sherrill
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisburg, NC 28075
I have experience working with individuals (adolescents and adults) and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, marital issues, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, self-concept, stress, and spiritual trauma.
Beginning counseling can be an overwhelming process. At Sanctuary Counseling Group, we believe in creating therapeutic relationships with our clients that promote the healing of heart, mind, and soul. I believe that we are whole persons, with unique physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs, so I am committed to an eclectic approach to meet my clients where they are. Our sessions will always be focused on you and your needs. I strive to be genuine and open with my clients in offering support, encouragement, and reflection. Together, we will explore the issues that you bring to counseling in a holistic way.
I have experience working with individuals (adolescents and adults) and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, marital issues, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, self-concept, stress, and spiritual trauma.
Beginning counseling can be an overwhelming process. At Sanctuary Counseling Group, we believe in creating therapeutic relationships with our clients that promote the healing of heart, mind, and soul. I believe that we are whole persons, with unique physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs, so I am committed to an eclectic approach to meet my clients where they are. Our sessions will always be focused on you and your needs. I strive to be genuine and open with my clients in offering support, encouragement, and reflection. Together, we will explore the issues that you bring to counseling in a holistic way.
(704) 375-5354 x418 View (704) 375-5354 x418
Photo of J. Michelle Daley, LCMHCA, Counselor
J. Michelle Daley
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, NC 28075
I am a Certified Grief Counselor Specialist.
Therapy can feel like a scary step to take. Even more it can be a struggle to just share one's needs/stories. Which is why Diego and I work with each of our Clients in making that fear go away and assisting everyone in feeling comfortable and at ease. One of the first priorities I focus on is working with that fear, that uncomfortable feeling--It Gets Better. Diego is an amazing asset to this team as he will provide comfort to those who experience anxiety during therapy. He can provide decompression for those working through trauma or those experiencing sensory challenges.
I am a Certified Grief Counselor Specialist.
Therapy can feel like a scary step to take. Even more it can be a struggle to just share one's needs/stories. Which is why Diego and I work with each of our Clients in making that fear go away and assisting everyone in feeling comfortable and at ease. One of the first priorities I focus on is working with that fear, that uncomfortable feeling--It Gets Better. Diego is an amazing asset to this team as he will provide comfort to those who experience anxiety during therapy. He can provide decompression for those working through trauma or those experiencing sensory challenges.
(980) 270-2140 View (980) 270-2140
Photo of Tiffani Thomas Cochran, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Tiffani Thomas Cochran
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, NC 28075  (Online Only)
Both therapy and exercise can help reduce anxiety, stress, depression, and/or grief.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. I specialize in creating a safe, non-judgmental environment for individuals, couples, and families to become emotionally stable as individuals and in their relationships. I love helping others take personal responsibility for self-growth, which flows over into their friendships, marriages, and family dynamics.
Both therapy and exercise can help reduce anxiety, stress, depression, and/or grief.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. I specialize in creating a safe, non-judgmental environment for individuals, couples, and families to become emotionally stable as individuals and in their relationships. I love helping others take personal responsibility for self-growth, which flows over into their friendships, marriages, and family dynamics.
(704) 702-0312 View (704) 702-0312
Photo of Jaimeer Isaiah Goodman, BS Psy, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jaimeer Isaiah Goodman
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, NC 28075
Hey everyone, I am a dedicated graduate intern pursuing a Master's in Social Work. Additionally, I serve as the head social media manager for our practice. I currently hold a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from Coastal Carolina University. My mission as a therapist is to support and guide individuals through life's challenges. I am most familiar with areas like, emotional struggles, anxiety, depression, or unresolved grief, and seeks emotional healing, healthy relationships, and personal empowerment. We'll work together on treatment plan to help achieve balance and make lasting changes.
Hey everyone, I am a dedicated graduate intern pursuing a Master's in Social Work. Additionally, I serve as the head social media manager for our practice. I currently hold a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from Coastal Carolina University. My mission as a therapist is to support and guide individuals through life's challenges. I am most familiar with areas like, emotional struggles, anxiety, depression, or unresolved grief, and seeks emotional healing, healthy relationships, and personal empowerment. We'll work together on treatment plan to help achieve balance and make lasting changes.
(980) 385-7372 View (980) 385-7372
Photo of Amy S Horne, LCMHCQS, NPT-C, CIMHP, CIMNTT, MFT
Amy S Horne
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCQS, NPT-C, CIMHP, CIMNTT, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisburg, NC 28075  (Online Only)
Trauma, PTSD, grief/loss, depression/anxiety, mood disorders, relationships, ADHD/ADD/ODD and addiction/recovery.
Qualified Supervisor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, I create a non-judgmental environment where clients feel safe to discuss their issues and improve the quality of their lives. I integrate different approaches with emphasis on EMDR/R-TEP/G-TEP, Gottman, NET, Trauma, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have experience with soldiers, trauma, abuse and disorders. I treat adolescents and adults using individual, family and/or couples' counseling. I have a direct therapeutic approach. I'm a Certified Integrative Medicine and Nutrition Trauma Treatment provider.
Trauma, PTSD, grief/loss, depression/anxiety, mood disorders, relationships, ADHD/ADD/ODD and addiction/recovery.
Qualified Supervisor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, I create a non-judgmental environment where clients feel safe to discuss their issues and improve the quality of their lives. I integrate different approaches with emphasis on EMDR/R-TEP/G-TEP, Gottman, NET, Trauma, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have experience with soldiers, trauma, abuse and disorders. I treat adolescents and adults using individual, family and/or couples' counseling. I have a direct therapeutic approach. I'm a Certified Integrative Medicine and Nutrition Trauma Treatment provider.
(910) 356-9455 View (910) 356-9455
Photo of Tyeekia Blue, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tyeekia Blue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisburg, NC 28075
I specialize in addiction, dual diagnosis, domestic violence, family conflict, grief, relationships, postpartum depression, stress, life transitions and working with individuals with special needs.
In life we often times face difficult circumstances that may alter our life plans. As a dually licensed psychotherapist, I specialize in working with adults and children who may be suffering from trauma, depression, anxiety and addiction. I offer a safe space where we will work together using your individual strengths to achieve your social, emotional, behavioral and therapeutic goals. I offer evening and weekend appointments to best fit your schedule.
I specialize in addiction, dual diagnosis, domestic violence, family conflict, grief, relationships, postpartum depression, stress, life transitions and working with individuals with special needs.
In life we often times face difficult circumstances that may alter our life plans. As a dually licensed psychotherapist, I specialize in working with adults and children who may be suffering from trauma, depression, anxiety and addiction. I offer a safe space where we will work together using your individual strengths to achieve your social, emotional, behavioral and therapeutic goals. I offer evening and weekend appointments to best fit your schedule.
(704) 703-4383 View (704) 703-4383
Photo of Dr. Teresa Helms, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Teresa Helms
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisburg, NC 28075
I enjoy working with both men and women and specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, relational difficulties, family of origin, grief and loss from an interpersonal/relational perspective.
Does life feel overwhelming at times? Do your relationships feel distant or too complicated? I strive to provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental environment to help clients heal and participate more deeply in relationships and life. I work with clients to help them get in touch with and process difficult emotions, feel more empowered, and create more meaningful relationships. Most of us want to experience closer, more intimate, relationships but have a hard time making that happen.
I enjoy working with both men and women and specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, relational difficulties, family of origin, grief and loss from an interpersonal/relational perspective.
Does life feel overwhelming at times? Do your relationships feel distant or too complicated? I strive to provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental environment to help clients heal and participate more deeply in relationships and life. I work with clients to help them get in touch with and process difficult emotions, feel more empowered, and create more meaningful relationships. Most of us want to experience closer, more intimate, relationships but have a hard time making that happen.
(980) 447-2282 View (980) 447-2282
Photo of Lisa Bolumen, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Lisa Bolumen
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, NC 28075
Specialized areas include anger, grief, family relationships, and depression.
Are you or a loved one feeling anxious, depressed, struggling in a relationship,...and you are in need of hope, encouragement, and direction? I consider it an honor to counsel children through adults as I get to share biblical truth as well as pray with those whom I counsel. For over 15 years, I served children, adolescents, parents, and adults as a licensed counselor. Through the truth of God's Word, the power of prayer, and the application of counseling techniques, hope and restoration are available for your heart, mind, and body. I am here, available, and I care.
Specialized areas include anger, grief, family relationships, and depression.
Are you or a loved one feeling anxious, depressed, struggling in a relationship,...and you are in need of hope, encouragement, and direction? I consider it an honor to counsel children through adults as I get to share biblical truth as well as pray with those whom I counsel. For over 15 years, I served children, adolescents, parents, and adults as a licensed counselor. Through the truth of God's Word, the power of prayer, and the application of counseling techniques, hope and restoration are available for your heart, mind, and body. I am here, available, and I care.
(704) 699-9165 View (704) 699-9165
Photo of Kristin Mosley, LMHCA
Kristin Mosley
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, NC 28075  (Online Only)
My specialties include life transitions/stressors, trauma, grief and loss, LGBTQ+, faith-based concerns, and women's issues.
Welcome to my profile! My goals are to help clients navigate difficult seasons of life, manage complex emotions, develop healthy coping skills, and live a meaningful life. My therapeutic style is direct, open, and collaborative. I am passionate about respecting diversity, and I provide LGBTQ+, culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed care. In sessions, I like to use a blend of mindfulness-based interventions like DBT and ACT paired with an unstructured use of CBT and solutions-focused therapy. I also like to include activities using art, music, and play.
My specialties include life transitions/stressors, trauma, grief and loss, LGBTQ+, faith-based concerns, and women's issues.
Welcome to my profile! My goals are to help clients navigate difficult seasons of life, manage complex emotions, develop healthy coping skills, and live a meaningful life. My therapeutic style is direct, open, and collaborative. I am passionate about respecting diversity, and I provide LGBTQ+, culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed care. In sessions, I like to use a blend of mindfulness-based interventions like DBT and ACT paired with an unstructured use of CBT and solutions-focused therapy. I also like to include activities using art, music, and play.
(704) 610-1864 View (704) 610-1864
Photo of Anna Gross, MA, LCMHCA
Anna Gross
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, NC 28075
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) who has been practicing since graduating with my master's in clinical mental health counseling in 2017. My areas of specialty are grief/loss, caregiver support (for individuals caring for those with illness, disabilities or dementia), anxiety, and depression. I prefer to utilize supportive therapies and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and I enjoy incorporating art in various medias (drawing, painting, paper craft).
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) who has been practicing since graduating with my master's in clinical mental health counseling in 2017. My areas of specialty are grief/loss, caregiver support (for individuals caring for those with illness, disabilities or dementia), anxiety, and depression. I prefer to utilize supportive therapies and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and I enjoy incorporating art in various medias (drawing, painting, paper craft).
(704) 666-9357 View (704) 666-9357
Photo of Geneva Henderson, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Geneva Henderson
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, NC 28075  (Online Only)
Making the decision to participate in therapy is a big step. I applaud you for making this decision because I know it is not an easy one. Maybe you are suddenly in the midst of an emotional crisis. Something happened such as a breakup, a death, job loss or many other possibilities. Now what? How to deal with this pain or grief, loss or stressful situation. By forming a relationship with a neutral outside person who has training in these matters, you can begin to get a handle of what is going on for you, identify your thoughts and feelings and develop a plan for positive change.
Making the decision to participate in therapy is a big step. I applaud you for making this decision because I know it is not an easy one. Maybe you are suddenly in the midst of an emotional crisis. Something happened such as a breakup, a death, job loss or many other possibilities. Now what? How to deal with this pain or grief, loss or stressful situation. By forming a relationship with a neutral outside person who has training in these matters, you can begin to get a handle of what is going on for you, identify your thoughts and feelings and develop a plan for positive change.
(980) 229-4369 View (980) 229-4369
Photo of Anna Hubbs, MA, Counselor
Anna Hubbs
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, NC 28075
Anna Grace Hubbs is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate with more than five years of experience specializing in grief and trauma. Anna Grace enjoys multi-cultural counseling and couples counseling. She has experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Narrative Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. In her free time, Anna Grace enjoys spending time cooking, painting, and traveling.
Anna Grace Hubbs is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate with more than five years of experience specializing in grief and trauma. Anna Grace enjoys multi-cultural counseling and couples counseling. She has experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Narrative Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. In her free time, Anna Grace enjoys spending time cooking, painting, and traveling.
(704) 610-5613 View (704) 610-5613
Photo of Tova Woullard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tova Woullard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, NC 28075  (Online Only)
Hopscotch therapists specialize in treating a wide variety of mental health conditions including; depression, stress, anger, grief, trauma, anxiety, bullying, family relationships and more.
Trying to find the right professional to support the emotional and/or behavioral health of your child or teen? Looking for a therapist who can give you and your child immediate online support? Our therapists accept most insurance and can be seen within the week. Schedule a free consultation with a therapist today to learn more about their approach. Need a hand? Our concierge service can help you find the right therapist for your child's needs.
Hopscotch therapists specialize in treating a wide variety of mental health conditions including; depression, stress, anger, grief, trauma, anxiety, bullying, family relationships and more.
Trying to find the right professional to support the emotional and/or behavioral health of your child or teen? Looking for a therapist who can give you and your child immediate online support? Our therapists accept most insurance and can be seen within the week. Schedule a free consultation with a therapist today to learn more about their approach. Need a hand? Our concierge service can help you find the right therapist for your child's needs.
(704) 389-5473 View (704) 389-5473
Photo of Melisa Patterson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melisa Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, NC 28075
Melisa Patterson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in depression, anxiety, grief and loss, stress management, aging, couples issues, caregiver issues, self-esteem, and managing chronic illnesses. Melisa treats clients ages 18+ utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Supportive Therapy, and other therapeutic modalities. Her approach is person-centered, client directed, and rooted in the power of human connection and therapeutic alliance.
Melisa Patterson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in depression, anxiety, grief and loss, stress management, aging, couples issues, caregiver issues, self-esteem, and managing chronic illnesses. Melisa treats clients ages 18+ utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Supportive Therapy, and other therapeutic modalities. Her approach is person-centered, client directed, and rooted in the power of human connection and therapeutic alliance.
(704) 286-0375 View (704) 286-0375
Photo of Lauren Gebbia-Tax, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Lauren Gebbia-Tax
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, NC 28075
As humans, we all face challenges that can become overwhelming. Maybe you want to learn how to better manage the challenges in your life. You want to feel empowered and purposeful, instead of feeling like your problems are the one in charge. Or perhaps you are seeking services for your child, who is struggling and could use some extra support. In my practice I collaborate with adults, teens, and kids on reaching their goals for greater wellness. Together we can address concerns such as anxiety, stress management, depression, life transitions, perfectionism & self-criticism, grief, or career & school issues.
As humans, we all face challenges that can become overwhelming. Maybe you want to learn how to better manage the challenges in your life. You want to feel empowered and purposeful, instead of feeling like your problems are the one in charge. Or perhaps you are seeking services for your child, who is struggling and could use some extra support. In my practice I collaborate with adults, teens, and kids on reaching their goals for greater wellness. Together we can address concerns such as anxiety, stress management, depression, life transitions, perfectionism & self-criticism, grief, or career & school issues.
(704) 459-8049 View (704) 459-8049
Photo of Meghann Goddard, LCMHC
Meghann Goddard
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, NC 28075  (Online Only)
She currently works with adults and adolescents and specializes in treating childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, interpersonal relationships, stress, grief and issues with self-esteem.
Meghann holds a BA in Communication from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and a MA in Communication from Queens University of Charlotte. After 10 years in the marketing and communication field, she made the decision to pursue her passion in counseling. Meghann completed her MA in Counseling at Wake Forest University and is now a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate. Meghann has aligned her therapeutic approach with a person-focused approach through cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical-behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing.
She currently works with adults and adolescents and specializes in treating childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, interpersonal relationships, stress, grief and issues with self-esteem.
Meghann holds a BA in Communication from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and a MA in Communication from Queens University of Charlotte. After 10 years in the marketing and communication field, she made the decision to pursue her passion in counseling. Meghann completed her MA in Counseling at Wake Forest University and is now a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate. Meghann has aligned her therapeutic approach with a person-focused approach through cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical-behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing.
(704) 766-8361 View (704) 766-8361
Photo of Destiny Pistone - Rise Counseling and Wellness, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rise Counseling and Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, NC 28075
I believe that therapy is for everyone! So often we minimize our struggles by comparing them to those faced by others when we all deserve the opportunity to work through our challenges so we can live the best version of our own lives. I work hard to provide a safe, judgement free atmosphere that promotes healing and personal growth. Life is unpredictable and having someone to help us rise though the hard parts can make all the difference in achieving the wellness we desire.
I believe that therapy is for everyone! So often we minimize our struggles by comparing them to those faced by others when we all deserve the opportunity to work through our challenges so we can live the best version of our own lives. I work hard to provide a safe, judgement free atmosphere that promotes healing and personal growth. Life is unpredictable and having someone to help us rise though the hard parts can make all the difference in achieving the wellness we desire.
(704) 486-5674 View (704) 486-5674
Photo of Ilse Sucely de León - Cere Counseling and Wellness, MABC, LCMHC, LPC, Counselor
Cere Counseling and Wellness
Counselor, MABC, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Harrisburg, NC 28075
When it comes to counseling, Cere takes a person-by-person approach. Every individual is unique. Each of us comes to counseling for nuanced reasons. In order to best serve you, we will get to know each other and identify and address your specific needs. At Cere, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach. We work to serve you best, exactly where and as you are. Specific care emphases include: family background as personal influence in decision- making, view of self, and initial relation to others; Christian insight drawn from Scripture with application to help you heal, grow in your spiritual life.
When it comes to counseling, Cere takes a person-by-person approach. Every individual is unique. Each of us comes to counseling for nuanced reasons. In order to best serve you, we will get to know each other and identify and address your specific needs. At Cere, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach. We work to serve you best, exactly where and as you are. Specific care emphases include: family background as personal influence in decision- making, view of self, and initial relation to others; Christian insight drawn from Scripture with application to help you heal, grow in your spiritual life.
(980) 399-5581 View (980) 399-5581
Photo of Kimberly M Parker - SHINE Counseling, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
SHINE Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Harrisburg, NC 28075
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
(704) 327-0132 View (704) 327-0132
1
Grief Therapists

How long does therapy take for grief?

There is no exact timeline for grief counseling. Some people may start to feel better after just a few sessions, while others may take months or longer to feel relief. Some specific approaches, including some types of CBT, may involve a set number of sessions, or therapy may be open-ended until the patient determines they are ready to wrap up. Just as there is no right or wrong way to grieve, there is no right or wrong way to seek therapy for grief.

When should you seek therapy for grief?

Many people mistakenly believe that their grief needs to be debilitating or all-encompassing to warrant therapy. This is not the case. While people who experience severe, prolonged grief—particularly those who are considering self-harm or engaging in unhealthy substance use—are especially likely to benefit from therapy, so too are people whose grief is less intense but still interfering with well-being or daily functioning. In practice, almost anyone struggling to process a loss could benefit from grief counseling.

Can grief be managed without therapy?

Oftentimes, yes. Grief is a near-universal part of being human, and many find that their grief, while profound, does not stop them from participating in day-to-day life and steadily eases over time without outside help. For others, however, the harsh pain of early grief persists for months or years or leaves them unable to function. This group is especially likely to benefit from seeing a therapist, who can guide them through their grief and help them reconnect with the world.

What happens if grief is left untreated?

Because grief does not in itself necessitate therapy, untreated grief will often resolve on its own. However, for some people—particularly those who would qualify for a diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder—untreated grief can be a source of seemingly endless pain or lead them to withdraw from the world. In such cases, treatment can be indispensable, as it can help an individual adapt to the loss and start living again.