Grief Therapists in Salem, OR

Photo of Hiilei Battistini, LPC, CCSOT, CADC-R, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hiilei Battistini
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCSOT, CADC-R
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
Change and loss can be difficult and confusing for everyone.
We are available immediately to work with individuals looking for support and guidance in navigating life challenges. They may be struggling with mood disorders, severe persistent mental illness, grief and loss, or adjustment disorders with goals to find ways to cope with their challenges, improve their mental health and well-being, and lead a fulfilling life. They want to regain a sense of balance, peace, and purpose and are seeking understanding, intervention, and support to help them achieve these goals.
Change and loss can be difficult and confusing for everyone.
We are available immediately to work with individuals looking for support and guidance in navigating life challenges. They may be struggling with mood disorders, severe persistent mental illness, grief and loss, or adjustment disorders with goals to find ways to cope with their challenges, improve their mental health and well-being, and lead a fulfilling life. They want to regain a sense of balance, peace, and purpose and are seeking understanding, intervention, and support to help them achieve these goals.
(503) 773-5128 View (503) 773-5128
Photo of Miranda Featherstone, MS, LPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Miranda Featherstone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
There are periods in life when it is difficult to see a way forward. If you are here, my guess is that you're struggling--you may be grieving a loss or struggling to accept difficult life changes. Or maybe you've been feeling stressed out and lost for a long time and aren't sure where to turn. Whatever the circumstances, it is my deep desire to see you rediscover happiness and purpose-- I wholeheartedly believe that counseling can help you get there. In the midst of darkness and chaos, it can be hard to see the road ahead. In therapy, I will journey beside you as you find your path and support you in building the courage to walk it.
There are periods in life when it is difficult to see a way forward. If you are here, my guess is that you're struggling--you may be grieving a loss or struggling to accept difficult life changes. Or maybe you've been feeling stressed out and lost for a long time and aren't sure where to turn. Whatever the circumstances, it is my deep desire to see you rediscover happiness and purpose-- I wholeheartedly believe that counseling can help you get there. In the midst of darkness and chaos, it can be hard to see the road ahead. In therapy, I will journey beside you as you find your path and support you in building the courage to walk it.
(971) 273-1745 View (971) 273-1745
Photo of Carol Beth Georgeson - Carol Beth Georgeson Counseling, LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carol Beth Georgeson Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
I also work with teens & adults through their healing journey after childhood trauma & loss.
I provide play therapy and counseling for children and adolescents as well as their parents and families. I also provide therapy for individual adult Clients. It has been my joy to walk with Clients towards their personal therapeutic goals for wellness and mental health with empathy and insight for over 21 years in the behavioral health field. My therapeutic focus is to compassionately assist you in identifying your strengths and current developmental processes as well as how various internal thought patterns, events, or choices might be interfering with your present wholeness and ability to experience life to the fullest.
I also work with teens & adults through their healing journey after childhood trauma & loss.
I provide play therapy and counseling for children and adolescents as well as their parents and families. I also provide therapy for individual adult Clients. It has been my joy to walk with Clients towards their personal therapeutic goals for wellness and mental health with empathy and insight for over 21 years in the behavioral health field. My therapeutic focus is to compassionately assist you in identifying your strengths and current developmental processes as well as how various internal thought patterns, events, or choices might be interfering with your present wholeness and ability to experience life to the fullest.
(503) 832-4946 View (503) 832-4946
Photo of Rose Wilson, MS, NCC
Rose Wilson
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
I’m Rose Wilson, a Professional Counselor Associate and the founder of Living in Alignment Counseling. I work with individuals aged 12 to 100 who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, grief, codependency, and family issues. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can openly explore your thoughts and feelings. I’m here to help you understand yourself more deeply, find inner peace, and uncover your true potential. Together, we’ll work towards embracing your authentic self and achieving a more fulfilling, balanced life. It’s a true privilege to be part of your journey and growth.
I’m Rose Wilson, a Professional Counselor Associate and the founder of Living in Alignment Counseling. I work with individuals aged 12 to 100 who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, grief, codependency, and family issues. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can openly explore your thoughts and feelings. I’m here to help you understand yourself more deeply, find inner peace, and uncover your true potential. Together, we’ll work towards embracing your authentic self and achieving a more fulfilling, balanced life. It’s a true privilege to be part of your journey and growth.
(503) 409-1144 View (503) 409-1144
Photo of Krishna Bright - Krishna Bright, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krishna Bright
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97302
It is deeply satisfying for me to guide clients to work out a plan and discover a deeper healing approach to help resolve stuck points, blocks, and ease grief and pain from traumatic pasts and difficult relationships.
I provide both counseling and astrology services, integrating 40 years experience of astrology into my counseling practice. 20 years of counseling experience involves guiding and supporting others through relationship concerns, family issues, anxiety, depression, sleep problems & women's health (sexual, physical, emotional.) I use CBT, psychodynamic, solution focused and emotionally focused modalities to help the client feel confident and secure in their positive coping skills. I also use mindfulness techniques and encourage the client to approach life holistically (mind, body, spirit) to obtain optimum goals of peace and happiness.
It is deeply satisfying for me to guide clients to work out a plan and discover a deeper healing approach to help resolve stuck points, blocks, and ease grief and pain from traumatic pasts and difficult relationships.
I provide both counseling and astrology services, integrating 40 years experience of astrology into my counseling practice. 20 years of counseling experience involves guiding and supporting others through relationship concerns, family issues, anxiety, depression, sleep problems & women's health (sexual, physical, emotional.) I use CBT, psychodynamic, solution focused and emotionally focused modalities to help the client feel confident and secure in their positive coping skills. I also use mindfulness techniques and encourage the client to approach life holistically (mind, body, spirit) to obtain optimum goals of peace and happiness.
(520) 214-8272 View (520) 214-8272
Photo of Melissa Alvarez Thorson, MS, LCPC, LAC, NCC
Melissa Alvarez Thorson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and relationship challenges.
Are you looking for a therapist who honors your autonomy and trusts you as the expert of your own life? Are you open to self-reflection and motivated to explore your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors in a supportive environment? You might be someone who appreciates a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where you can work alongside your therapist to identify strengths, build resilience, and develop coping strategies. Perhaps you'd like to better understand yourself, improve your emotional well-being, and make meaningful changes in your life and relationships. Are you ready to take the first step toward healing? I can help!
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and relationship challenges.
Are you looking for a therapist who honors your autonomy and trusts you as the expert of your own life? Are you open to self-reflection and motivated to explore your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors in a supportive environment? You might be someone who appreciates a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where you can work alongside your therapist to identify strengths, build resilience, and develop coping strategies. Perhaps you'd like to better understand yourself, improve your emotional well-being, and make meaningful changes in your life and relationships. Are you ready to take the first step toward healing? I can help!
(406) 446-8857 View (406) 446-8857
Photo of Amber Sirstad, MA, QMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber Sirstad
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, QMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302
Life is like a roller coaster, constantly surprising us with twists and turns. Sometimes they provoke happy reactions, and other times it feels as though we have had the wind knocked out of us. Grief counseling is something that is near and dear to my heart. I have done grief counseling with clients ranging from the ages of 18-60. I work to provide a safe environment for clients to begin processing some very difficult and traumatic events in their life. I work towards the goal of creating an atmosphere of comfort for my client based on trust, empathy, and understanding.
Life is like a roller coaster, constantly surprising us with twists and turns. Sometimes they provoke happy reactions, and other times it feels as though we have had the wind knocked out of us. Grief counseling is something that is near and dear to my heart. I have done grief counseling with clients ranging from the ages of 18-60. I work to provide a safe environment for clients to begin processing some very difficult and traumatic events in their life. I work towards the goal of creating an atmosphere of comfort for my client based on trust, empathy, and understanding.
(503) 563-8713 View (503) 563-8713
Photo of Nancy L Link, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy L Link
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
ADHD, abuse/traumas, anxiety issues, depression, post traumatic stress, grief and loss.
Over 30 years experience as a licensed counselor. Are you looking for a positive change in your life? I can help you. I believe that growth is an essential ingredient for a fulfilling life. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, adults and families. My training and experience is extensive. It includes being certified as a DEH@ practitioner, individual, couple, family therapy, Play/Sand/Art Therapy, hypnosis, and Spiritual Direction/life path exploration. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Oregon, trained in Spiritual direction, and certified in delivery of Tele Mental Health services.
ADHD, abuse/traumas, anxiety issues, depression, post traumatic stress, grief and loss.
Over 30 years experience as a licensed counselor. Are you looking for a positive change in your life? I can help you. I believe that growth is an essential ingredient for a fulfilling life. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, adults and families. My training and experience is extensive. It includes being certified as a DEH@ practitioner, individual, couple, family therapy, Play/Sand/Art Therapy, hypnosis, and Spiritual Direction/life path exploration. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Oregon, trained in Spiritual direction, and certified in delivery of Tele Mental Health services.
(503) 980-3226 View (503) 980-3226
Photo of Nancy A Ferrell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy A Ferrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97302  (Online Only)
illness, financial loss, aging issues, divorce, aging issues, etc.
It is my privilege to provide you with a safe, accepting and supportive environment, as together, we explore and clarify those issues that keep you from moving forward and living a full, authentic and vibrant life. As we explore ways of working with your concerns, you will find yourself able to redirect your energy towards what you most care about.
illness, financial loss, aging issues, divorce, aging issues, etc.
It is my privilege to provide you with a safe, accepting and supportive environment, as together, we explore and clarify those issues that keep you from moving forward and living a full, authentic and vibrant life. As we explore ways of working with your concerns, you will find yourself able to redirect your energy towards what you most care about.
(971) 338-9926 View (971) 338-9926
Photo of Brittany Lane, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brittany Lane
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
Starting this therapeutic journey is a courageous step, and I admire your decision to explore counseling as a source of support. It's important to know that you don't have to go through your challenges all on your own—think of me as your companion on this path to healing and growth. Together, we'll tackle the complexities of emotions, and I'll be there to offer you the guidance and tools you need to reclaim your life with newfound strength and resilience. I specialize in providing support for individuals facing anxiety, navigating pregnancy loss and infertility, healing from trauma, and strengthening relationships.
Starting this therapeutic journey is a courageous step, and I admire your decision to explore counseling as a source of support. It's important to know that you don't have to go through your challenges all on your own—think of me as your companion on this path to healing and growth. Together, we'll tackle the complexities of emotions, and I'll be there to offer you the guidance and tools you need to reclaim your life with newfound strength and resilience. I specialize in providing support for individuals facing anxiety, navigating pregnancy loss and infertility, healing from trauma, and strengthening relationships.
(458) 217-6861 View (458) 217-6861
Photo of Sarah Wheeler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Wheeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97303
My name is Sarah and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience treating clients with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief, and chronic illness -just to name a few.
Hi there, if you've been feeling stuck or overwhelmed by life's challenges, I'm here to help. My ideal clients are those navigating big life transitions, experiencing relationship challenges, grieving a loss, or struggling with symptoms of anxiety or depression. They want to find a safe space where they can feel heard, understood, and supported on their journey towards healing and growth. My approach is tailored to each client's unique needs, with empathy, compassion, and practical strategies to help them feel better.
My name is Sarah and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience treating clients with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief, and chronic illness -just to name a few.
Hi there, if you've been feeling stuck or overwhelmed by life's challenges, I'm here to help. My ideal clients are those navigating big life transitions, experiencing relationship challenges, grieving a loss, or struggling with symptoms of anxiety or depression. They want to find a safe space where they can feel heard, understood, and supported on their journey towards healing and growth. My approach is tailored to each client's unique needs, with empathy, compassion, and practical strategies to help them feel better.
(503) 483-6927 View (503) 483-6927
Photo of Larry Bates, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Larry Bates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
I’ve worked with teenagers and adults with depression, anxiety, life transitions, coping with stress, low self-esteem, and grief/ loss.
Having difficulty coming to terms with loss? Overwhelmed with feelings of depression and worthlessness? Difficulty managing stress and or anxiety?
I’ve worked with teenagers and adults with depression, anxiety, life transitions, coping with stress, low self-esteem, and grief/ loss.
Having difficulty coming to terms with loss? Overwhelmed with feelings of depression and worthlessness? Difficulty managing stress and or anxiety?
(503) 822-7580 View (503) 822-7580
Photo of Katon Abnar Behbahani, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katon Abnar Behbahani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with grief, trauma, and couples work and I frequently utilize EMDR and the Gottman Method in my work with both individuals and couples.
I work with and enjoy working with individuals, couples, families, and children. The populations I frequently work with are people of color, marginalized people, those who have experienced the loss of a loved one, loss of a job, or loss of a relationship, and post partum mothers. The issues my clients typically face and experience are trauma, loss, and grief. Many of the clients I see have gone to therapy in the past and have experienced poor results or are those who have never been to therapy before and find that for the first time that they need someone to talk to about issues that they are experiencing.
I specialize in working with grief, trauma, and couples work and I frequently utilize EMDR and the Gottman Method in my work with both individuals and couples.
I work with and enjoy working with individuals, couples, families, and children. The populations I frequently work with are people of color, marginalized people, those who have experienced the loss of a loved one, loss of a job, or loss of a relationship, and post partum mothers. The issues my clients typically face and experience are trauma, loss, and grief. Many of the clients I see have gone to therapy in the past and have experienced poor results or are those who have never been to therapy before and find that for the first time that they need someone to talk to about issues that they are experiencing.
(503) 300-5715 View (503) 300-5715
Photo of Cindy Dahl, LCSW, LICSW, DCSW, BCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cindy Dahl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, DCSW, BCC
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97303  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My own lived experience with struggles, trauma, grief, loss, highly sensitive & ADD has given me a deep understanding of the human condition and importance of self acceptance.
Offering support regarding post election anxiety about our future. I specialize in supporting women who are struggling to discover who they are as they move through each decade of life, trying to adjust to changes that feel out of their control and may be struggling with anxiety, sadness, feeling afraid, grieving, loneliness, feeling invisible, not valued? Do you feel like you don't fit in anymore, feel deeply but hide that from others, feel traumatize by stress and chaos of daily life? Are you a member of the "sandwich generation" and overwhelmed with many responsibilities? Do you identify as an Elder, Neurodiverse, ADHD, LGBTQA.
My own lived experience with struggles, trauma, grief, loss, highly sensitive & ADD has given me a deep understanding of the human condition and importance of self acceptance.
Offering support regarding post election anxiety about our future. I specialize in supporting women who are struggling to discover who they are as they move through each decade of life, trying to adjust to changes that feel out of their control and may be struggling with anxiety, sadness, feeling afraid, grieving, loneliness, feeling invisible, not valued? Do you feel like you don't fit in anymore, feel deeply but hide that from others, feel traumatize by stress and chaos of daily life? Are you a member of the "sandwich generation" and overwhelmed with many responsibilities? Do you identify as an Elder, Neurodiverse, ADHD, LGBTQA.
(503) 664-7588 View (503) 664-7588
Photo of Rob Heinz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rob Heinz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience providing psychotherapy with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life stressors, interpersonal conflict, building self-esteem following a difficult relationship, and helping people with a range of issues.
Choosing to engage in therapy is a difficult and sometimes terrifying decision and by looking for a therapist you've started making progress towards addressing issues and concerns you may want help with. My approach to therapy is centered around you and meeting you are and addressing issues you identify.
I have experience providing psychotherapy with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life stressors, interpersonal conflict, building self-esteem following a difficult relationship, and helping people with a range of issues.
Choosing to engage in therapy is a difficult and sometimes terrifying decision and by looking for a therapist you've started making progress towards addressing issues and concerns you may want help with. My approach to therapy is centered around you and meeting you are and addressing issues you identify.
(503) 610-2542 View (503) 610-2542
Photo of Lisa Dickman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Dickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients. With over 20 years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), I offer therapy services in Oregon and Utah. I specialize in helping clients navigate relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, imposter syndrome, and low self-esteem. I am most effective with clients who are proactive in their mental health journey and value applying therapeutic techniques beyond our sessions.
Now accepting new clients. With over 20 years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), I offer therapy services in Oregon and Utah. I specialize in helping clients navigate relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, imposter syndrome, and low self-esteem. I am most effective with clients who are proactive in their mental health journey and value applying therapeutic techniques beyond our sessions.
(458) 313-3216 View (458) 313-3216
Photo of Tim Markwell - New Perspectives Center for Counseling & Therapy, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
New Perspectives Center for Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
CLINICAL SERVICES: Individual therapy for children, adolescents,adults and seniors; Couples/family therapy; medication evaluation,treatment and management; womens issues; EMDR; play therapy; deafness/sign language; developmental disabilities; sexual dysfunction/addiction; co-occuring disorders; school achievement/adjustment; family communication skills; parenting classes; adjustment to divorce and loss.
NEW PERSPECTIVES CENTER for Counseling and Therapy, LLC is an outpatient behavioral health facility with a multi-disciplinary team of therapists and psychiatric nurse practioners who provide comprehensive services to CHILDREN,ADOLESCENTS,ADULTS, and SENIORS. Working in an atmosphere of safety and acceptance, individuals, couples, families and groups are encouraged to explore and confront the issues affecting their lives. We are licensed by the state of Oregon for both mental health and addiction services. We are covered by most insurance plans and have therapists/nurses on most managed care panels.
CLINICAL SERVICES: Individual therapy for children, adolescents,adults and seniors; Couples/family therapy; medication evaluation,treatment and management; womens issues; EMDR; play therapy; deafness/sign language; developmental disabilities; sexual dysfunction/addiction; co-occuring disorders; school achievement/adjustment; family communication skills; parenting classes; adjustment to divorce and loss.
NEW PERSPECTIVES CENTER for Counseling and Therapy, LLC is an outpatient behavioral health facility with a multi-disciplinary team of therapists and psychiatric nurse practioners who provide comprehensive services to CHILDREN,ADOLESCENTS,ADULTS, and SENIORS. Working in an atmosphere of safety and acceptance, individuals, couples, families and groups are encouraged to explore and confront the issues affecting their lives. We are licensed by the state of Oregon for both mental health and addiction services. We are covered by most insurance plans and have therapists/nurses on most managed care panels.
(503) 446-5085 View (503) 446-5085
Photo of Julie O'Connor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie O'Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97306  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! The experiences of trauma, grief & loss, relationship concerns, self-esteem struggles and other life transitions often have a profound impact on our daily lives. Healing is possible and a road you do not have to walk alone.
Welcome! The experiences of trauma, grief & loss, relationship concerns, self-esteem struggles and other life transitions often have a profound impact on our daily lives. Healing is possible and a road you do not have to walk alone.
(503) 486-4943 View (503) 486-4943
Photo of Sue Mary Fagin, MA, CHT, LMT, LPC Intern
Sue Mary Fagin
LPC Intern, MA, CHT, LMT
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
Trauma, PTSD, adoption, grief, Energy work, depression, post addiction, couples, individual, smoke Cession.
I want to work with client's to discover their purpose to assist them in improving positive changes in there life. Also, to Help them discover what has not worked for them and offer new tools for them to use.
Trauma, PTSD, adoption, grief, Energy work, depression, post addiction, couples, individual, smoke Cession.
I want to work with client's to discover their purpose to assist them in improving positive changes in there life. Also, to Help them discover what has not worked for them and offer new tools for them to use.
(971) 701-2160 View (971) 701-2160
Photo of Daniel McRee, CSWA
Daniel McRee
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
Daniel works with ages 10 to 90, and his work experience has primarily focused on youth and young adults. As a queer identifying clinician, he also enjoys working with LGTBQIA+ clients and hopes to create a therapeutic space free of shame and stigma. He has experience working with trans and non-binary/gender non-conforming clients and can support individuals on their transition journey. Other areas he focuses on are grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety, depression, identity, alternative relationships, sexuality, and men’s issues.
Daniel works with ages 10 to 90, and his work experience has primarily focused on youth and young adults. As a queer identifying clinician, he also enjoys working with LGTBQIA+ clients and hopes to create a therapeutic space free of shame and stigma. He has experience working with trans and non-binary/gender non-conforming clients and can support individuals on their transition journey. Other areas he focuses on are grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety, depression, identity, alternative relationships, sexuality, and men’s issues.
(541) 805-2137 View (541) 805-2137
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.