Grief Therapists in Ephrata, PA

Photo of Linda D Welford, MEd, MAMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Linda D Welford
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, MAMFT
Verified Verified
Ephrata, PA 17522
The emotional pain you experience leaves you parched; thirsty for the refreshment of deeper emotional connection with those you love. It is my desire to be one who listens carefully to appreciate your pain while offering a lifeline to restore hope for a better future. I am full of gratitude for a life full of blessings but I have also experienced many challenges. I want you to know that I understand the heartache of addiction, moral failures, loss, grief, despair, loneliness, abuse, and family conflict. I can appreciate the pain you feel. I want to help you find release from your suffering and refreshment for your soul.
The emotional pain you experience leaves you parched; thirsty for the refreshment of deeper emotional connection with those you love. It is my desire to be one who listens carefully to appreciate your pain while offering a lifeline to restore hope for a better future. I am full of gratitude for a life full of blessings but I have also experienced many challenges. I want you to know that I understand the heartache of addiction, moral failures, loss, grief, despair, loneliness, abuse, and family conflict. I can appreciate the pain you feel. I want to help you find release from your suffering and refreshment for your soul.
(610) 200-5777 View (610) 200-5777
Photo of Stephanie A Swann, MA, LPC, MT-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie A Swann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Ephrata, PA 17522
Specialties are grief, depression, mood & anxiety disorders, common student issues, self-harmful behaviors & ADHD, with previous experience working with sexual offenders and victims of abuse.
I have been in Private Practice for over 20 years and enjoy working with adults, adolescents and children. My focus is on accessing the creative qualities of the person, and working to transcend the individual to a more productive, healthful way of living and thinking. Interventions used vary, but can include Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral techniques, Solutions-based, Skill-building, Behavioral Management, Play and Sand Tray Therapy techniques and Music Therapy. A graduate of the Leadership Lancaster's 2003 Core Class, I enjoy serving in our community. I'm an avid hiker and enjoy any type of live music.
Specialties are grief, depression, mood & anxiety disorders, common student issues, self-harmful behaviors & ADHD, with previous experience working with sexual offenders and victims of abuse.
I have been in Private Practice for over 20 years and enjoy working with adults, adolescents and children. My focus is on accessing the creative qualities of the person, and working to transcend the individual to a more productive, healthful way of living and thinking. Interventions used vary, but can include Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral techniques, Solutions-based, Skill-building, Behavioral Management, Play and Sand Tray Therapy techniques and Music Therapy. A graduate of the Leadership Lancaster's 2003 Core Class, I enjoy serving in our community. I'm an avid hiker and enjoy any type of live music.
(717) 798-9689 View (717) 798-9689
Photo of Carol Musser, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carol Musser
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ephrata, PA 17522
I work with anyone dealing with relational issues, past experiences, life transitions, communication, unmet needs, sexual issues, parenting challenges, marriage difficulties, anger management, stress, grief, low self-esteem, spiritual struggles, depression and anxiety that threaten to overwhelm us and bring conflict to our most important relationships.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I care deeply about helping my clients reach their goals by identifying strengths, discovering possibilities, and finding balance in the troublesome areas of their lives. The journey to healing and wholeness requires a safe place to process the difficulties in life, and by walking together, we create that safety so that the client may regain a sense of fullness in their life, enrich their relationships, and find their unique purpose and meaning in life.
I work with anyone dealing with relational issues, past experiences, life transitions, communication, unmet needs, sexual issues, parenting challenges, marriage difficulties, anger management, stress, grief, low self-esteem, spiritual struggles, depression and anxiety that threaten to overwhelm us and bring conflict to our most important relationships.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I care deeply about helping my clients reach their goals by identifying strengths, discovering possibilities, and finding balance in the troublesome areas of their lives. The journey to healing and wholeness requires a safe place to process the difficulties in life, and by walking together, we create that safety so that the client may regain a sense of fullness in their life, enrich their relationships, and find their unique purpose and meaning in life.
(717) 422-9559 View (717) 422-9559
Photo of Malinda Sutphin, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Malinda Sutphin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ephrata, PA 17522
Specifically if you or your child is struggling with with life transitions, setting boundaries with others, anxiety, depression, grief, managing frustration/anger, and self-esteem/confidence.
Are you feeling misunderstood and unseen? Overwhelmed and stressed out? Those are absolutely valid reasons to seek counseling! The counseling relationship is a collaborative process between the client and counselor that can spark positive growth in your life. By using creative interventions that address your main concerns, the counseling process can be even more impactful. If you are in need of a therapist who is compassionate, ready to listen and eager to help, please give me a call today! (I am in the Lanc office Wed, Thurs & I am only in the Qville office on Tuesdays at this time).
Specifically if you or your child is struggling with with life transitions, setting boundaries with others, anxiety, depression, grief, managing frustration/anger, and self-esteem/confidence.
Are you feeling misunderstood and unseen? Overwhelmed and stressed out? Those are absolutely valid reasons to seek counseling! The counseling relationship is a collaborative process between the client and counselor that can spark positive growth in your life. By using creative interventions that address your main concerns, the counseling process can be even more impactful. If you are in need of a therapist who is compassionate, ready to listen and eager to help, please give me a call today! (I am in the Lanc office Wed, Thurs & I am only in the Qville office on Tuesdays at this time).
(717) 493-6002 View (717) 493-6002
Photo of Adriane Sweigart - Restore Counseling Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Restore Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ephrata, PA 17522
I’ve worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, anger issues, grief and loss, divorce, and relationship struggles.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I am trained to take a holistic approach to healing. That’s really just a fancy way to say that I help you look at and focus on everything that makes you, you. And you are not just your diagnosis or symptoms. Healing is hard. Change is hard. But they are within reach. That’s why I am driven to do what I do. I work with individuals to make that easier by creating a safe place to explore strengths, family history, support systems, community, and barriers. Together we walk the journey to healing and change, whatever that may look like.
I’ve worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, anger issues, grief and loss, divorce, and relationship struggles.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I am trained to take a holistic approach to healing. That’s really just a fancy way to say that I help you look at and focus on everything that makes you, you. And you are not just your diagnosis or symptoms. Healing is hard. Change is hard. But they are within reach. That’s why I am driven to do what I do. I work with individuals to make that easier by creating a safe place to explore strengths, family history, support systems, community, and barriers. Together we walk the journey to healing and change, whatever that may look like.
(717) 432-6743 View (717) 432-6743
Photo of Sara Heinzman, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Heinzman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ephrata, PA 17522
I believe that everyone has a unique story, deserving an equally unique therapeutic experience that speaks to their story and prompts the change they desire most. I enjoy working with teens, emerging adults, and adults. I work with my clients addressing: ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Career Counseling, Chronic Illness, Learning Disabilities, Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive, Parenting, Developing Coping and Social Skills, Pregnancy/Postpartum, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self-Harm, Suicidal Thoughts, Self Esteem, Depression, Domestic Violence, Emotional Distress, and Grief and Loss.
I believe that everyone has a unique story, deserving an equally unique therapeutic experience that speaks to their story and prompts the change they desire most. I enjoy working with teens, emerging adults, and adults. I work with my clients addressing: ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Career Counseling, Chronic Illness, Learning Disabilities, Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive, Parenting, Developing Coping and Social Skills, Pregnancy/Postpartum, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self-Harm, Suicidal Thoughts, Self Esteem, Depression, Domestic Violence, Emotional Distress, and Grief and Loss.
(717) 837-5717 View (717) 837-5717
Photo of Carrie Nicklas, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carrie Nicklas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Ephrata, PA 17522
I have a heart to serve individuals going through difficult times in their lives. I work with clients facing depression, anxiety, anger, post-traumatic stress, and adjustment disorders. Individuals and families find encouragement and support while facing grief and loss, separation and divorce, abuse, and other stressful or traumatic events. They find healing from past pain and hope for a better future through the therapeutic process.
I have a heart to serve individuals going through difficult times in their lives. I work with clients facing depression, anxiety, anger, post-traumatic stress, and adjustment disorders. Individuals and families find encouragement and support while facing grief and loss, separation and divorce, abuse, and other stressful or traumatic events. They find healing from past pain and hope for a better future through the therapeutic process.
(717) 488-2266 View (717) 488-2266
Photo of Kay Bela, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kay Bela
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ephrata, PA 17522
If you've been feeling overwhelmed, stuck, trapped, or like your brain just won't stop ruminating and you're tired, but don't know how to make it stop, I'm here for you. When we're low, life can feel scary, lonely and confusing without a roadmap. I help clients find energy, mental rest, and stability in their lives. We'll take it one step at a time and walk you through mental health recovery at the pace that feels right to you, so you can gain control of your life. I’ve personally dealt with severe anxiety, depression, suicide attempts, trauma, alcohol abuse, & the loss of a brother to addiction, so I'm no stranger to the journey.
If you've been feeling overwhelmed, stuck, trapped, or like your brain just won't stop ruminating and you're tired, but don't know how to make it stop, I'm here for you. When we're low, life can feel scary, lonely and confusing without a roadmap. I help clients find energy, mental rest, and stability in their lives. We'll take it one step at a time and walk you through mental health recovery at the pace that feels right to you, so you can gain control of your life. I’ve personally dealt with severe anxiety, depression, suicide attempts, trauma, alcohol abuse, & the loss of a brother to addiction, so I'm no stranger to the journey.
(717) 229-0116 View (717) 229-0116
Photo of Julie M Kowalski, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie M Kowalski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Ephrata, PA 17522
I have a particular interest and experience in working with survivors of trauma, including witnessing or experiencing violence, abuse, abandonment, rejection, spiritual abuse and complicated grief.
Welcome, I know how scary starting therapy can be. I commend you on taking this first step. I believe it is important to heal the hurts that may continue to affect you. As a therapist, I am invested in your story and will walk with you through your healing journey. I use several evidence-based approaches but focus on person centered and humanistic therapy. I will encourage you to take control of your sessions in order to foster and develop your own sense of empowerment. I will offer guidance and support throughout the process. I will also help you to develop coping skills that build upon your strengths.
I have a particular interest and experience in working with survivors of trauma, including witnessing or experiencing violence, abuse, abandonment, rejection, spiritual abuse and complicated grief.
Welcome, I know how scary starting therapy can be. I commend you on taking this first step. I believe it is important to heal the hurts that may continue to affect you. As a therapist, I am invested in your story and will walk with you through your healing journey. I use several evidence-based approaches but focus on person centered and humanistic therapy. I will encourage you to take control of your sessions in order to foster and develop your own sense of empowerment. I will offer guidance and support throughout the process. I will also help you to develop coping skills that build upon your strengths.
(717) 883-5004 View (717) 883-5004
Photo of Juston Wolgemuth, MS, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Juston Wolgemuth
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ephrata, PA 17522  (Online Only)
I help clients deal with life challenges and emotional concerns, such as self-destructive patterns, anxiety, depression, relationship health, anger, addiction, grief, building self-awareness, and more. I particularly enjoy working with men seeking to lead healthier lives and relationships.
I help clients deal with life challenges and emotional concerns, such as self-destructive patterns, anxiety, depression, relationship health, anger, addiction, grief, building self-awareness, and more. I particularly enjoy working with men seeking to lead healthier lives and relationships.
(856) 699-6033 View (856) 699-6033
Photo of Heather A. Lutz-Neff, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather A. Lutz-Neff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ephrata, PA 17522
I value the relationship within the therapeutic experience as much as I value your story! I provide a nonjudgmental space as it is the building block to promote healing. I provide marital and relationship therapy utilizing assessments and interventions from Gottman's Theory. This therapy focuses on tools and exercises to strengthen marriages and relationships. Our Gottman work will provide a mechanism for deeper understanding. This may include building the friendship within your marital relationship or reflecting on past attachments from childhood. You and your partner are deserving of a loving relationship!
I value the relationship within the therapeutic experience as much as I value your story! I provide a nonjudgmental space as it is the building block to promote healing. I provide marital and relationship therapy utilizing assessments and interventions from Gottman's Theory. This therapy focuses on tools and exercises to strengthen marriages and relationships. Our Gottman work will provide a mechanism for deeper understanding. This may include building the friendship within your marital relationship or reflecting on past attachments from childhood. You and your partner are deserving of a loving relationship!
(717) 727-2758 View (717) 727-2758
Photo of Caitlin Cummings - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ephrata, PA 17522  (Online Only)
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(717) 905-4062 View (717) 905-4062
Photo of Michael Koblensky, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Koblensky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ephrata, PA 17522
Mental health conditions can disrupt brain function and neurochemistry, leading to emotional distress, impaired cognitive processes, and physical symptoms like restlessness, fatigue, and pain. I understand how overwhelming these challenges can be, and I’m here to offer the support you need. My approach is deeply empathetic and tailored to your unique experiences, helping you build resilience and find relief. Let’s work together to create a path toward healing and a more fulfilling life. Reach out today to take the first step towards overcoming these obstacles and regaining your peace of mind.
Mental health conditions can disrupt brain function and neurochemistry, leading to emotional distress, impaired cognitive processes, and physical symptoms like restlessness, fatigue, and pain. I understand how overwhelming these challenges can be, and I’m here to offer the support you need. My approach is deeply empathetic and tailored to your unique experiences, helping you build resilience and find relief. Let’s work together to create a path toward healing and a more fulfilling life. Reach out today to take the first step towards overcoming these obstacles and regaining your peace of mind.
(717) 447-5998 View (717) 447-5998
Brian Richardson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ephrata, PA 17522  (Online Only)
Brian Richardson, MA, LPC Who Am I? I am Brian Richardson, and I am passionate about helping people overcome the hurdles and obstacles in their life. I believe people can uncover the way forward to their best life, but sometimes need some help on the way. I am well-trained as I hold a National Certified Peer Specialist Certification, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling, and am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also a National Certified Counselor and a Licensed Professional Counselor. Who Do I work with? I am passionate
Brian Richardson, MA, LPC Who Am I? I am Brian Richardson, and I am passionate about helping people overcome the hurdles and obstacles in their life. I believe people can uncover the way forward to their best life, but sometimes need some help on the way. I am well-trained as I hold a National Certified Peer Specialist Certification, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling, and am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also a National Certified Counselor and a Licensed Professional Counselor. Who Do I work with? I am passionate
(717) 864-5308 View (717) 864-5308
Photo of Jess Fry, LPC, ADHD-, CCSP, CSTS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jess Fry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ADHD-, CCSP, CSTS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ephrata, PA 17522
Life can be overwhelming and at times. Struggles such as body image distress, disordered eating, anxiety and ADHD can further complicate everyday life and provide barriers to reaching your full potential. My approach as a therapist is to support you in identifying your strengths and building upon them to find a sense of direction, hope and peace. I enjoy helping clients develop skills for achieving goals of change and growth and guiding you through this process collaboratively.
Life can be overwhelming and at times. Struggles such as body image distress, disordered eating, anxiety and ADHD can further complicate everyday life and provide barriers to reaching your full potential. My approach as a therapist is to support you in identifying your strengths and building upon them to find a sense of direction, hope and peace. I enjoy helping clients develop skills for achieving goals of change and growth and guiding you through this process collaboratively.
(717) 297-1541 View (717) 297-1541
Photo of Matt Kernicky - Matthew Kernicky Counseling, LLC, MA, Counselor
Matthew Kernicky Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ephrata, PA 17522  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you're constantly walking on eggshells, waiting for the next disaster? Does your mind race with worst-case scenarios? Maybe you withdraw from social events to avoid the judgment of others. Maybe you feel like you don't measure up to the people around you. Your inner critic tells you that you're not good enough, smart enough, or not lovable. This relentless inner turmoil has left you feeling exhausted, isolated, and riddled with doubt. The net result? You struggle to experience the joy and fulfillment that you crave.
Do you feel like you're constantly walking on eggshells, waiting for the next disaster? Does your mind race with worst-case scenarios? Maybe you withdraw from social events to avoid the judgment of others. Maybe you feel like you don't measure up to the people around you. Your inner critic tells you that you're not good enough, smart enough, or not lovable. This relentless inner turmoil has left you feeling exhausted, isolated, and riddled with doubt. The net result? You struggle to experience the joy and fulfillment that you crave.
(717) 452-4911 View (717) 452-4911
Photo of Melanie A Glassey, MA, ATR-P, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melanie A Glassey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-P, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ephrata, PA 17522  (Online Only)
Are you stuck in a cycle of overthinking, sleepless nights, or feeling emotionally drained? If you’ve been trying to manage it all on your own, only to feel more disconnected and lost, know that you don’t have to face it alone. I'm here to help you make sense of the chaos and regain control. I specialize in guiding adults through the complexities of emotional turmoil, helping you uncover the root causes behind your struggles.
Are you stuck in a cycle of overthinking, sleepless nights, or feeling emotionally drained? If you’ve been trying to manage it all on your own, only to feel more disconnected and lost, know that you don’t have to face it alone. I'm here to help you make sense of the chaos and regain control. I specialize in guiding adults through the complexities of emotional turmoil, helping you uncover the root causes behind your struggles.
(717) 423-8238 View (717) 423-8238
Photo of Kristina Dundore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina Dundore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ephrata, PA 17522
Now accepting new clients, call/text/email for an appointment. At By Your Side Counseling, I am here to walk with you through your unique journey. My focus is on providing each client with individualized care in a private comfortable setting. The decision to start therapy can be difficult, I am here to make therapy a positive and helpful experience. I can help guide you through a variety of issues from small changes to major life transitions. As we walk together through your journey, we can explore thoughts, feelings and emotions so that you can better understand yourself and live your best life.
Now accepting new clients, call/text/email for an appointment. At By Your Side Counseling, I am here to walk with you through your unique journey. My focus is on providing each client with individualized care in a private comfortable setting. The decision to start therapy can be difficult, I am here to make therapy a positive and helpful experience. I can help guide you through a variety of issues from small changes to major life transitions. As we walk together through your journey, we can explore thoughts, feelings and emotions so that you can better understand yourself and live your best life.
(717) 543-0464 View (717) 543-0464
Photo of Maria A Braithwaite, MA, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maria A Braithwaite
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Ephrata, PA 17522
I am a bilingual therapist (Spanish) graduated in a master program of mental health counseling in Messiah University. Durante mis 10 anos de studios he trabajado con ninos, adolescents, adultos y familias ayudandoles a consegir sus metas y mejorar la salud mental. La trajectoria y dificultades de mi vida me han dado la passion para ayudar a otros. Estare aqui para ofrecerte un espacio sin juzgar y donden te sientas segura para que puedes encontrat tu camino y bienestar mental.
I am a bilingual therapist (Spanish) graduated in a master program of mental health counseling in Messiah University. Durante mis 10 anos de studios he trabajado con ninos, adolescents, adultos y familias ayudandoles a consegir sus metas y mejorar la salud mental. La trajectoria y dificultades de mi vida me han dado la passion para ayudar a otros. Estare aqui para ofrecerte un espacio sin juzgar y donden te sientas segura para que puedes encontrat tu camino y bienestar mental.
(717) 229-0304 View (717) 229-0304
Photo of Ambre L. Witte - Life and Love Counseling, LLC., MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Life and Love Counseling, LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ephrata, PA 17522
Hi! We are Life and Love Counseling, LLC., a caring outpatient psychotherapy office, located in Lancaster, PA providing mental health services, life coaching, & holistic therapies for individuals (children ages 3+, adolescents, & adults), families, couples, & groups. When life becomes overwhelming, psychotherapy offers therapeutic support, encouragement, psychoeducation, & facilitates the implementation of problem-solving strategies to navigate difficult & challenging times. We utilize CBT strategies to address negative thoughts, feelings, & behaviors. We offer holistic approaches to attain balance & awaken an inner calm.
Hi! We are Life and Love Counseling, LLC., a caring outpatient psychotherapy office, located in Lancaster, PA providing mental health services, life coaching, & holistic therapies for individuals (children ages 3+, adolescents, & adults), families, couples, & groups. When life becomes overwhelming, psychotherapy offers therapeutic support, encouragement, psychoeducation, & facilitates the implementation of problem-solving strategies to navigate difficult & challenging times. We utilize CBT strategies to address negative thoughts, feelings, & behaviors. We offer holistic approaches to attain balance & awaken an inner calm.
(717) 454-2068 View (717) 454-2068
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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.