Grief Therapists in Ohio

Photo of Dr. Noriyo Shoji-Schaffner, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Noriyo Shoji-Schaffner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45405
Are you navigating personality disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety & depression, marital & familial conflicts, & grief? Are you ready to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to improve your well-being by being open to asking tough questions, tackling big issues, and pursuing outcomes with perseverance? My goal is to provide support in improving relationships, managing stress, overcoming trauma, adopting healthier coping skills, & embracing fulfilling life options. My 15 years of clinical experience as a racial/ethnic minority practitioner has allowed me to cultivate expertise to assist racial/ethnic minority groups.
Are you navigating personality disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety & depression, marital & familial conflicts, & grief? Are you ready to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to improve your well-being by being open to asking tough questions, tackling big issues, and pursuing outcomes with perseverance? My goal is to provide support in improving relationships, managing stress, overcoming trauma, adopting healthier coping skills, & embracing fulfilling life options. My 15 years of clinical experience as a racial/ethnic minority practitioner has allowed me to cultivate expertise to assist racial/ethnic minority groups.
(937) 557-5474 View (937) 557-5474
Photo of Jean M Zaffiro, MA, LPCC
Jean M Zaffiro
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I have worked in private practice settings for more than seven years with men and women to address conditions such as depression, anxiety, grief, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance use issues.
*CURRENTLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Each person is born to be someone – themself. Over time this sense of self is molded by our lived experiences, relationships, and interactions. Sometimes we are molded to fit into a role or to fulfill someone else’s needs. It is this sense of losing ourselves that can lead to the challenges of anxiety, depression, emotional distress, and numerous other mental health concerns. As a result, I believe counseling is an essential part of life – a journey to finding the authentic self.
I have worked in private practice settings for more than seven years with men and women to address conditions such as depression, anxiety, grief, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance use issues.
*CURRENTLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Each person is born to be someone – themself. Over time this sense of self is molded by our lived experiences, relationships, and interactions. Sometimes we are molded to fit into a role or to fulfill someone else’s needs. It is this sense of losing ourselves that can lead to the challenges of anxiety, depression, emotional distress, and numerous other mental health concerns. As a result, I believe counseling is an essential part of life – a journey to finding the authentic self.
(216) 616-5048 View (216) 616-5048
Photo of Holly Mundon, MSW , LISWS , CCTP , CDCA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Mundon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LISWS , CCTP , CDCA
Verified Verified
Delaware, OH 43015
Are you having struggles in your job or relationship? Have you been diagnosed with a mental illness and need coping skills as you learn to manage all that it entails? Do you need education, support, and encouragement? I work with grief/loss, trauma, Depression, Anxiety, coping skills & boundaries, relationship and job stressors, life transitions, and general support. I am passionate about helping those who are 'helping professions' and work with health professionals and first responders dealing with secondary trauma. We will work together to set goals for taking the next steps to feel better.
Are you having struggles in your job or relationship? Have you been diagnosed with a mental illness and need coping skills as you learn to manage all that it entails? Do you need education, support, and encouragement? I work with grief/loss, trauma, Depression, Anxiety, coping skills & boundaries, relationship and job stressors, life transitions, and general support. I am passionate about helping those who are 'helping professions' and work with health professionals and first responders dealing with secondary trauma. We will work together to set goals for taking the next steps to feel better.
(740) 926-6574 View (740) 926-6574
Photo of Anna Ellenson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Ellenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Canton, OH 44718
Anna Ellenson (pronouns: she/her) is a licensed professional counselor who works with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Her specialty interests include grief and loss counseling, end-of-life counseling, and adulthood and aging. She utilizes treatment approaches that are evidence-based and uniquely tailored to each client.
Anna Ellenson (pronouns: she/her) is a licensed professional counselor who works with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Her specialty interests include grief and loss counseling, end-of-life counseling, and adulthood and aging. She utilizes treatment approaches that are evidence-based and uniquely tailored to each client.
(330) 915-2907 View (330) 915-2907
Photo of Sarah Mediatore, LPCC-S
Sarah Mediatore
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Delaware, OH 43015
Trauma symptoms can take many forms: a low hum of depression or depression that keeps you in bed for days, crippling anxiety, self-doubt, constant negative thinking, substance abuse, dysfunctional family relationships... or just a feeling of "lost", "hopeless", "stuck" or "worthless". The truth is that we are subject to trauma just by experiencing life that we weren't prepared for, and it can look like a lot of things: a change of jobs...a death in the family...COVID, or serious abuse. If you're looking for an alternative, holistic approach to healing trauma, please reach out.
Trauma symptoms can take many forms: a low hum of depression or depression that keeps you in bed for days, crippling anxiety, self-doubt, constant negative thinking, substance abuse, dysfunctional family relationships... or just a feeling of "lost", "hopeless", "stuck" or "worthless". The truth is that we are subject to trauma just by experiencing life that we weren't prepared for, and it can look like a lot of things: a change of jobs...a death in the family...COVID, or serious abuse. If you're looking for an alternative, holistic approach to healing trauma, please reach out.
(740) 276-2671 View (740) 276-2671
Photo of Susan Hoover, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Hoover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45226
I have experience in adoption, chronic and terminal illness and grief.
I have been a psychotherapist for over 25 years. I provide a nurturing environment where we can safely explore difficult issues. I have a highly interactive approach and believe that the best results come from a strong therapeutic relationship. Many of the people I work with are the "walking wounded" - 'regular folks' feeling that they are not dealing well with the stresses of everyday life. Other people I work with have a history of chronic mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and bi-polar disorder.
I have experience in adoption, chronic and terminal illness and grief.
I have been a psychotherapist for over 25 years. I provide a nurturing environment where we can safely explore difficult issues. I have a highly interactive approach and believe that the best results come from a strong therapeutic relationship. Many of the people I work with are the "walking wounded" - 'regular folks' feeling that they are not dealing well with the stresses of everyday life. Other people I work with have a history of chronic mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and bi-polar disorder.
(513) 795-1326 View (513) 795-1326
Photo of Gwen Verhoff, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gwen Verhoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, and hopeless? You are not alone and don’t have to navigate these challenges by yourself. We all need help at some point in our lives. I believe that you have within you the capacity to heal, grow, and find peace within your life. My role is to walk alongside you, in a safe, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment to help you uncover who you truly are underneath the pain. Individuals see me for a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, chronic illness, and life transitions.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, and hopeless? You are not alone and don’t have to navigate these challenges by yourself. We all need help at some point in our lives. I believe that you have within you the capacity to heal, grow, and find peace within your life. My role is to walk alongside you, in a safe, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment to help you uncover who you truly are underneath the pain. Individuals see me for a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, chronic illness, and life transitions.
(614) 858-8853 x814 View (614) 858-8853 x814
Photo of Jane Martinez, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131
As for special areas of interest, I have been able to work with a variety of clients on the following issues: Codependency, Grief, Self-Esteem, Suicidal Ideation, Trauma and PTSD, Mood Disorders, Forensic Matters, Coping Skills, and Relationships.
I enjoy working with adults who have an interest in addressing mental health issues, including struggles with addictions. I also love to work with young people, ages 11 to 17. It is very rewarding to work toward a goal with a client and assist them in realizing their full potential. I have been fortunate to work with many types of individuals, such as those who want to deal with short-term or long-term problems. I am also bilingual in Spanish. Often people come to therapy because they want to solve an issue they have been struggling with for a long time, or sometimes it is something urgent that just suddenly arises.
As for special areas of interest, I have been able to work with a variety of clients on the following issues: Codependency, Grief, Self-Esteem, Suicidal Ideation, Trauma and PTSD, Mood Disorders, Forensic Matters, Coping Skills, and Relationships.
I enjoy working with adults who have an interest in addressing mental health issues, including struggles with addictions. I also love to work with young people, ages 11 to 17. It is very rewarding to work toward a goal with a client and assist them in realizing their full potential. I have been fortunate to work with many types of individuals, such as those who want to deal with short-term or long-term problems. I am also bilingual in Spanish. Often people come to therapy because they want to solve an issue they have been struggling with for a long time, or sometimes it is something urgent that just suddenly arises.
(216) 868-7207 View (216) 868-7207
Photo of Mariah Tendam, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mariah Tendam
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Not accepting new clients
In addition, I assist with guiding through disenfranchised grief or life changes, such as career or college transitions.
When it comes to working with you, my top priority is to ensure we're working together in a way that feels comfortable and safe for you. Collaboration is key, and I'm committed to creating a space tailored to your unique needs. My ultimate goal is to provide a warm and welcoming environment where you feel heard, understood, and accepted. I'm committed to creating an inclusive and supportive space for individuals from all backgrounds.
In addition, I assist with guiding through disenfranchised grief or life changes, such as career or college transitions.
When it comes to working with you, my top priority is to ensure we're working together in a way that feels comfortable and safe for you. Collaboration is key, and I'm committed to creating a space tailored to your unique needs. My ultimate goal is to provide a warm and welcoming environment where you feel heard, understood, and accepted. I'm committed to creating an inclusive and supportive space for individuals from all backgrounds.
(513) 845-2658 View (513) 845-2658
Griffith R Dye
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oberlin, OH 44074
Much of my work is with people who are struggling with serious issues, like depression, grief, anxiety, and anger.
In our initial meeting, I try to understand whether I can be helpful, and if my skills fit your issues. I generally work towards appreciating the complicated nature of problems and the suffering that results. I may push you to develop some different ways of looking at--and solving-- your problems. As I get older I find that I'm more understanding and less quick to make judgments. I try to be what I value in a therapist--someone who has a good sense of the sorrows, joys and absurdities of life, and who still has a sense of hope.
Much of my work is with people who are struggling with serious issues, like depression, grief, anxiety, and anger.
In our initial meeting, I try to understand whether I can be helpful, and if my skills fit your issues. I generally work towards appreciating the complicated nature of problems and the suffering that results. I may push you to develop some different ways of looking at--and solving-- your problems. As I get older I find that I'm more understanding and less quick to make judgments. I try to be what I value in a therapist--someone who has a good sense of the sorrows, joys and absurdities of life, and who still has a sense of hope.
(440) 987-1986 View (440) 987-1986
Photo of Benjamin Chandler, LPC, Counselor
Benjamin Chandler
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Louisville, OH 44641
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Grief Therapy, Gambling Addiction, and Anger Management.
I am a Marine Corps veteran who wants to give back to my fellow veterans and my community. I'm an advocate for trauma survivors and those that are grieving. I utilize many different treatment styles to help my clients achieve their goals. I have worked as an outpatient counselor in the community setting before opening my private practice.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Grief Therapy, Gambling Addiction, and Anger Management.
I am a Marine Corps veteran who wants to give back to my fellow veterans and my community. I'm an advocate for trauma survivors and those that are grieving. I utilize many different treatment styles to help my clients achieve their goals. I have worked as an outpatient counselor in the community setting before opening my private practice.
(234) 516-2887 View (234) 516-2887
Photo of Carly Koller, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carly Koller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chagrin Falls, OH 44023  (Online Only)
My counseling focus has mainly been in grief and the bereavement process; as well as helping individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, low self esteem and relationship struggles.
“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts” Marcus Aurelius How we think affects how we feel and therefore how we tend to behave. It is my belief that the counseling experience is all about self exploration, growth and gaining new perspective and ways of thinking. I truly enjoy providing and sharing safe and comfortable spaces with individuals, couples, families and groups. I welcome any and all individuals age 14 and older no matter what challenges you are facing.
My counseling focus has mainly been in grief and the bereavement process; as well as helping individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, low self esteem and relationship struggles.
“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts” Marcus Aurelius How we think affects how we feel and therefore how we tend to behave. It is my belief that the counseling experience is all about self exploration, growth and gaining new perspective and ways of thinking. I truly enjoy providing and sharing safe and comfortable spaces with individuals, couples, families and groups. I welcome any and all individuals age 14 and older no matter what challenges you are facing.
(440) 809-8306 View (440) 809-8306
Photo of Christopher Kline, PhD, Psychologist
Christopher Kline
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
He helps people with transition and change, anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, and anger.
Christopher D. Kline, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist who has had the pleasure of working with adults and adolescents for over 20 years in a number of different settings, from university counseling centers, community-based outreach programs, and private psychology practice, to working with corporate executives and teams. Dr. Kline received his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Akron, a Masters of Arts in Community Counseling from the University of Akron, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the College of Wooster.
He helps people with transition and change, anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, and anger.
Christopher D. Kline, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist who has had the pleasure of working with adults and adolescents for over 20 years in a number of different settings, from university counseling centers, community-based outreach programs, and private psychology practice, to working with corporate executives and teams. Dr. Kline received his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Akron, a Masters of Arts in Community Counseling from the University of Akron, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the College of Wooster.
(440) 683-6441 View (440) 683-6441
Photo of Jennifer Lynn Wilson, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Lynn Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43617
I am extremely passionate about helping those that are dealing with grief, and even anticipatory grief, in relation to a terminal illness. I have worked in hospice for 17 years and feel that end of life support and education is my calling. It is so important that every individual realize that their way of dealing with grief may be different and that’s ok. Providing clients with a safe place to share their thoughts and feelings is of utmost importance to me.
I am extremely passionate about helping those that are dealing with grief, and even anticipatory grief, in relation to a terminal illness. I have worked in hospice for 17 years and feel that end of life support and education is my calling. It is so important that every individual realize that their way of dealing with grief may be different and that’s ok. Providing clients with a safe place to share their thoughts and feelings is of utmost importance to me.
(419) 573-0212 View (419) 573-0212
Photo of Lorran Upchurch, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorran Upchurch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sylvania, OH 43560
I have experience in many specialities including grief/bereavement, work performance, co-dependency recovery, family conflict, foster care/ adoption, women's issues, caregiver fatigue, parenting challenges, Christian/ faith based therapy, and emotional/ mood disorders.
Depression, trauma, and uncontrollable fear/anxiety can wreak havoc on your life and make it challenging to even complete ordinary tasks. But, with a renewed perspective, problems solved, eliminated barriers, and hope I will help you identify and overcome the issues standing in your way. I offer a relaxing and safe environment where we will find a unique, personalized way to achieve your goals. I use a blend of techniques from various therapeutic approaches.
I have experience in many specialities including grief/bereavement, work performance, co-dependency recovery, family conflict, foster care/ adoption, women's issues, caregiver fatigue, parenting challenges, Christian/ faith based therapy, and emotional/ mood disorders.
Depression, trauma, and uncontrollable fear/anxiety can wreak havoc on your life and make it challenging to even complete ordinary tasks. But, with a renewed perspective, problems solved, eliminated barriers, and hope I will help you identify and overcome the issues standing in your way. I offer a relaxing and safe environment where we will find a unique, personalized way to achieve your goals. I use a blend of techniques from various therapeutic approaches.
(419) 518-5272 View (419) 518-5272
Photo of Breanna DeSandro, LPCC, CTRS, Counselor
Breanna DeSandro
Counselor, LPCC, CTRS
Verified Verified
Sylvania, OH 43560
Waitlist for new clients
Trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and other issues, no longer need to keep you captive.
Hello! I am honored to be a part of your healing journey. I recognize this takes a leap of faith and courage to venture out onto this path. However, I am committed to providing a warm, genuine, honest, and safe atmosphere, to foster vulnerability and healing. I believe all human beings have inherent worth, thus I am passionate about helping you recognize your worth and developing the ability to embrace all the parts of yourself. My goal as a therapist is to empower you, develop emotional intelligence, and process through memories that keep you stuck and prevent you from living your best life.
Trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and other issues, no longer need to keep you captive.
Hello! I am honored to be a part of your healing journey. I recognize this takes a leap of faith and courage to venture out onto this path. However, I am committed to providing a warm, genuine, honest, and safe atmosphere, to foster vulnerability and healing. I believe all human beings have inherent worth, thus I am passionate about helping you recognize your worth and developing the ability to embrace all the parts of yourself. My goal as a therapist is to empower you, develop emotional intelligence, and process through memories that keep you stuck and prevent you from living your best life.
(419) 757-3920 View (419) 757-3920
Photo of Christie Steffen, MSP, MFT-T, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Christie Steffen
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MSP, MFT-T
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43617
Not accepting new clients
Meet Christie, a compassionate marriage and family therapist who has dedicated herself to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate the complexities of their lives brought on by conflicts in relationships, trauma, disability, divorce, infidelity, or the death of a loved one. Christie’s warm, non-judgmental demeanor creates a safe space for her clients to explore their experiences and challenges, while her mastery of Narrative Therapy techniques empowers them to rewrite their stories in ways that bring about positive change and inspire them to embrace their strengths.
Meet Christie, a compassionate marriage and family therapist who has dedicated herself to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate the complexities of their lives brought on by conflicts in relationships, trauma, disability, divorce, infidelity, or the death of a loved one. Christie’s warm, non-judgmental demeanor creates a safe space for her clients to explore their experiences and challenges, while her mastery of Narrative Therapy techniques empowers them to rewrite their stories in ways that bring about positive change and inspire them to embrace their strengths.
(419) 845-6191 View (419) 845-6191
Photo of Consuelo Parker - Warm Embrace Counseling LLC, LPCC-S, LICDC
Warm Embrace Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Maybe you are here to try to understand an addiction, process grief, unpack trauma, or sort through relational issues.
Breathe, this is just a chapter, not your whole story. We all have things that we may struggle with from time to time, and it is important to find a professional that you can relate to when you need help. I enjoy helping people work through the difficulties of life, with a warm and non-judgmental attitude. My approach to therapy is laid-back and down to earth. Your sessions with me will very much be directed by you. What's hindering you? depression, stress, anxiety, anger, self esteem? Do these issues leave you feeling impaired? Just Know, how you deal with the valley can have a lasting effect well after the storm has passed.
Maybe you are here to try to understand an addiction, process grief, unpack trauma, or sort through relational issues.
Breathe, this is just a chapter, not your whole story. We all have things that we may struggle with from time to time, and it is important to find a professional that you can relate to when you need help. I enjoy helping people work through the difficulties of life, with a warm and non-judgmental attitude. My approach to therapy is laid-back and down to earth. Your sessions with me will very much be directed by you. What's hindering you? depression, stress, anxiety, anger, self esteem? Do these issues leave you feeling impaired? Just Know, how you deal with the valley can have a lasting effect well after the storm has passed.
(216) 238-0153 View (216) 238-0153
Photo of Renee R Molzon - Renee R Molzon Counseling, LLC, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee R Molzon Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chardon, OH 44024
Waitlist for new clients
You know yourself best. I would love to help you bring out the best in yourself. I believe in a client centered approach to therapy. We will focus on your needs and concerns to develop an appropriate plan. I work with individuals who are dealing with mood disorders, dual diagnosis, grief, anxiety, depression, and those who have, or whose loved ones have, a chronic illness or dementia. I utilize many treatment methods to provide the support and education that you are requesting. We will complete a diagnostic assessment in order to develop the best course of treatment for you or your family.
You know yourself best. I would love to help you bring out the best in yourself. I believe in a client centered approach to therapy. We will focus on your needs and concerns to develop an appropriate plan. I work with individuals who are dealing with mood disorders, dual diagnosis, grief, anxiety, depression, and those who have, or whose loved ones have, a chronic illness or dementia. I utilize many treatment methods to provide the support and education that you are requesting. We will complete a diagnostic assessment in order to develop the best course of treatment for you or your family.
(440) 276-3949 View (440) 276-3949
Photo of Jamie Sheehan, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Sheehan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43606
Accepting new clients! Email me to schedule. I may be a good fit as a therapist if you struggle with anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship conflict, work stress, or grief. I am passionate about helping those who are identifying challenges of disordered eating, body dysmorphia, a major life transition that took a significant toll, end of life care, substance use recovery, family counseling, couples counseling, and overall seeking therapy to gain tools they need to help them in their day-to-day life. We will only work on what you are comfortable discussing in session, and we work at your pace. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist.
Accepting new clients! Email me to schedule. I may be a good fit as a therapist if you struggle with anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship conflict, work stress, or grief. I am passionate about helping those who are identifying challenges of disordered eating, body dysmorphia, a major life transition that took a significant toll, end of life care, substance use recovery, family counseling, couples counseling, and overall seeking therapy to gain tools they need to help them in their day-to-day life. We will only work on what you are comfortable discussing in session, and we work at your pace. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist.
(419) 912-5610 View (419) 912-5610
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Grief Therapists

How long does therapy take for grief?

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

When should you seek therapy for grief?

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

Can grief be managed without therapy?

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

What happens if grief is left untreated?

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