Grief Therapists in Lawrence, PA

Photo of Kathleen Joyce Fullmer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Joyce Fullmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrence, PA 15055
As a therapist my training and experience have been focused on themes of attachment, relationships, grief, loss, trauma, and spirituality.
I love working with people of all ages who are seeking to understand themselves and other significant people in their lives! It is my joy to help my clients find peace and make meaning of both the usual challenges in life and the events that threaten to rob us of hope.
As a therapist my training and experience have been focused on themes of attachment, relationships, grief, loss, trauma, and spirituality.
I love working with people of all ages who are seeking to understand themselves and other significant people in their lives! It is my joy to help my clients find peace and make meaning of both the usual challenges in life and the events that threaten to rob us of hope.
(412) 981-2554 View (412) 981-2554
Photo of Gina Niewodowski, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gina Niewodowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lawrence, PA 15055
Gina Niewodowski is a licensed professional counselor, board certified art therapist and cognitive processing therapist specializing in the treatment of loss, depression, anxiety, change adjustment, divorce recovery, LGBTQ issues, trauma, children's and teens' adjustment and grief issues. She has over 30 years of experience as a therapist and uses various modalities to help people accomplish their goals, including insight-oriented psychotherapy, cognitive processing therapy, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and art therapy.
Gina Niewodowski is a licensed professional counselor, board certified art therapist and cognitive processing therapist specializing in the treatment of loss, depression, anxiety, change adjustment, divorce recovery, LGBTQ issues, trauma, children's and teens' adjustment and grief issues. She has over 30 years of experience as a therapist and uses various modalities to help people accomplish their goals, including insight-oriented psychotherapy, cognitive processing therapy, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and art therapy.
(412) 744-3379 View (412) 744-3379
Photo of Ellen Ulmer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ellen Ulmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lawrence, PA 15055
Ellen Ulmer is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2005. She has a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Chatham College (University). Ellen has experience working with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan and in various settings treating mood disorders, grief and loss, adjustment to transitions, and addiction among other issues. Ellen's approach includes empowering clients to believe in their own self-worth and ability to find solutions. Her theater background also makes her attuned to interpersonal connection and non-verbal communication.
Ellen Ulmer is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2005. She has a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Chatham College (University). Ellen has experience working with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan and in various settings treating mood disorders, grief and loss, adjustment to transitions, and addiction among other issues. Ellen's approach includes empowering clients to believe in their own self-worth and ability to find solutions. Her theater background also makes her attuned to interpersonal connection and non-verbal communication.
(412) 914-3952 View (412) 914-3952
Photo of Catherine Bush-Herling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catherine Bush-Herling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lawrence, PA 15055
Catherine Bush-Herling is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2018. Catherine takes a holistic, customized approach with each of her clients while also infusing humor to assist in the healing process. She works to focus on helping them understand the difference between what is within their control and what is outside of their control while teaching skills and processing hurt. Outside of work, Catherine enjoys scuba diving, judo, playing with her dog, and traveling.
Catherine Bush-Herling is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2018. Catherine takes a holistic, customized approach with each of her clients while also infusing humor to assist in the healing process. She works to focus on helping them understand the difference between what is within their control and what is outside of their control while teaching skills and processing hurt. Outside of work, Catherine enjoys scuba diving, judo, playing with her dog, and traveling.
(412) 213-9698 View (412) 213-9698
Photo of Miriam Gabrielle Geier, LPC, Counselor
Miriam Gabrielle Geier
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lawrence, PA 15055
Gabrielle Geier is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2011. She has an MS from Chatham University and a BS from Syracuse University. Gabrielle offers SFT, CCT, and CBT. She also has a lot of experience treating Substance Abuse Disorders and Cancer patients. Gabrielle tries to make it a very comfortable experience for the patient and develops a trusting bond. Outside of work, Gabrielle enjoys art, music, and writing.
Gabrielle Geier is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2011. She has an MS from Chatham University and a BS from Syracuse University. Gabrielle offers SFT, CCT, and CBT. She also has a lot of experience treating Substance Abuse Disorders and Cancer patients. Gabrielle tries to make it a very comfortable experience for the patient and develops a trusting bond. Outside of work, Gabrielle enjoys art, music, and writing.
(412) 534-5416 View (412) 534-5416
Photo of Eric Treaster, MS,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eric Treaster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lawrence, PA 15055
Eric Treaster, LPC, offers compassionate and expert mental health services to individuals and families in Pennsylvania. With a deep understanding of chronic emotional issues, he provides support for those struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, and trauma. Eric is dedicated to fostering better communication among couples by identifying and addressing triggers rooted in past experiences. His practice spans across Pennsylvania, serving various communities with personalized care. Specializing in anxiety, PTSD/trauma, and couples' issues, Eric is passionate about guiding clients through their healing journeys.
Eric Treaster, LPC, offers compassionate and expert mental health services to individuals and families in Pennsylvania. With a deep understanding of chronic emotional issues, he provides support for those struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, and trauma. Eric is dedicated to fostering better communication among couples by identifying and addressing triggers rooted in past experiences. His practice spans across Pennsylvania, serving various communities with personalized care. Specializing in anxiety, PTSD/trauma, and couples' issues, Eric is passionate about guiding clients through their healing journeys.
(412) 891-8015 View (412) 891-8015

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jim LoPresti, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jim LoPresti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317  (Online Only)
The primary focus tends to be on treating anxiety/panic disorders, depression, grief and loss, family and peer relationships, life transitions, stress, trauma, autism spectrum, children, teens, and social skills.
“I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.” - Carl Jung. Does it feel like something doesn’t fit? Do you wonder if you’re heading in the right direction? Do you know what you want but you’re not sure how to there? I’d love to talk to you about it! I’m ready to listen to your experiences, challenges, thoughts, and feelings. Let’s go on a journey through your past, present, and into your future. We’re going to find answers within yourself; answers that you never knew you had all along because you are your own expert.
The primary focus tends to be on treating anxiety/panic disorders, depression, grief and loss, family and peer relationships, life transitions, stress, trauma, autism spectrum, children, teens, and social skills.
“I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.” - Carl Jung. Does it feel like something doesn’t fit? Do you wonder if you’re heading in the right direction? Do you know what you want but you’re not sure how to there? I’d love to talk to you about it! I’m ready to listen to your experiences, challenges, thoughts, and feelings. Let’s go on a journey through your past, present, and into your future. We’re going to find answers within yourself; answers that you never knew you had all along because you are your own expert.
(724) 538-7478 View (724) 538-7478
Photo of LeeAnna Petrone, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
LeeAnna Petrone
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples navigating a range of reproductive mental health issues, including but not limited to: infertility, abortion, challenges across pregnancy, early parenting support, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, reproductive grief and loss, and reproductive trauma. I also offer general life transition, anxiety, grief, trauma, neurodivergent support, and LGBTQIA+ support to teens and adults.
I work with individuals and couples navigating a range of reproductive mental health issues, including but not limited to: infertility, abortion, challenges across pregnancy, early parenting support, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, reproductive grief and loss, and reproductive trauma. I also offer general life transition, anxiety, grief, trauma, neurodivergent support, and LGBTQIA+ support to teens and adults.
(724) 932-6185 View (724) 932-6185
Photo of Jordan Bilich, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan Bilich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
McMurray, PA 15317
I have a range of experience with adults in a medical setting, which I feel translates well into our counseling setting. I have worked with those in crisis, life's pivotal moments, beginning/in recovery, working through grief, and those looking to cope with every-day, human struggles. I'm interested in how I can help you identify and achieve your goals.
I have a range of experience with adults in a medical setting, which I feel translates well into our counseling setting. I have worked with those in crisis, life's pivotal moments, beginning/in recovery, working through grief, and those looking to cope with every-day, human struggles. I'm interested in how I can help you identify and achieve your goals.
(724) 585-8586 View (724) 585-8586
Photo of Claire Barber, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Claire Barber
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317  (Online Only)
Life is a delicate balance with moments of light and shadow shaping who we are. When life's complexities feel overwhelming, you don't have to navigate them alone. I believe in the power of seeking support and acknowledging that you're worthy of it. As a therapist, I work collaboratively with you to untangle the challenges you face—whether it's grief, depression, anxiety, or any other life hurdle—using holistic and integrated therapeutic approaches tailored to your unique journey.
Life is a delicate balance with moments of light and shadow shaping who we are. When life's complexities feel overwhelming, you don't have to navigate them alone. I believe in the power of seeking support and acknowledging that you're worthy of it. As a therapist, I work collaboratively with you to untangle the challenges you face—whether it's grief, depression, anxiety, or any other life hurdle—using holistic and integrated therapeutic approaches tailored to your unique journey.
(724) 948-1573 View (724) 948-1573
Photo of Mariellen Kerr, PhD, LPC, CSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mariellen Kerr
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CSP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
I am here to help you. Having worked for years in the schools, my experience & advanced training equip me with the skills to help my clients learn how to manage the struggles in their life enabling them to feel happier and healthier. I use a client-centered, cognitive-behavioral approach (art, play, & music therapy with younger clients) to teach coping strategies, new skills, and behavior modification techniques for managing ADHD, ASD, anxiety, stress, and life transitions such as divorce, loss of a job, moving, changing schools, or the death of a loved one. Together, we can improve the quality of your life whenever you are ready.
I am here to help you. Having worked for years in the schools, my experience & advanced training equip me with the skills to help my clients learn how to manage the struggles in their life enabling them to feel happier and healthier. I use a client-centered, cognitive-behavioral approach (art, play, & music therapy with younger clients) to teach coping strategies, new skills, and behavior modification techniques for managing ADHD, ASD, anxiety, stress, and life transitions such as divorce, loss of a job, moving, changing schools, or the death of a loved one. Together, we can improve the quality of your life whenever you are ready.
(412) 891-6906 View (412) 891-6906
Photo of Kristin Kristoff, MS, MSEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin Kristoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MSEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
McMurray, PA 15317
I have specialized training and extensive experience in couples and family therapy, trauma, loss and grief issues.
Seeking peace? We all are, in our own way, and I'm here to provide professional experience to those who want or need help finding and maintaining balance and happiness. Typically, I work with individuals and couples ages 15 and above, and my approach involves a unique perspective rooted in honesty, compassion, empathy, mindfulness, and self-awareness.
I have specialized training and extensive experience in couples and family therapy, trauma, loss and grief issues.
Seeking peace? We all are, in our own way, and I'm here to provide professional experience to those who want or need help finding and maintaining balance and happiness. Typically, I work with individuals and couples ages 15 and above, and my approach involves a unique perspective rooted in honesty, compassion, empathy, mindfulness, and self-awareness.
(412) 336-8159 View (412) 336-8159
Photo of Shari Stranges, MEd, LPC, NCC/MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shari Stranges
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC/MAC
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317
Concerns I focus on include depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, coping skills, grief and loss, stress/balance, spiritual issues, codependency, and self-esteem.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, located in Canonsburg, PA. My background includes inpatient, outpatient, care coordination, primary care, and private practice settings. My style is warm and accepting, with a little humor mixed in. I am comfortable working with clients with a lot of faith, a little faith, seeking faith, or none at all. My focus is really on building a trusting relationship, thinking out loud together, adjusting perspectives, and building practical skills in order to make healthy lifestyle changes. Of course, we will celebrate your victories along the way.
Concerns I focus on include depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, coping skills, grief and loss, stress/balance, spiritual issues, codependency, and self-esteem.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, located in Canonsburg, PA. My background includes inpatient, outpatient, care coordination, primary care, and private practice settings. My style is warm and accepting, with a little humor mixed in. I am comfortable working with clients with a lot of faith, a little faith, seeking faith, or none at all. My focus is really on building a trusting relationship, thinking out loud together, adjusting perspectives, and building practical skills in order to make healthy lifestyle changes. Of course, we will celebrate your victories along the way.
(724) 573-8202 View (724) 573-8202
Photo of Tutu A Wreh - Wreh's Wellness Services, LLC, MSW, LCSW, C-SWHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wreh's Wellness Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, C-SWHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317
At Wreh's Wellness Services, we enjoy working with children (ages 5+), families, adolescents, couples, individuals and groups. We work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stressor related concerns, grief and loss, personality disorders, self-esteem, familial relationship challenges, addiction, trauma and other psychosocial symptoms. We have experiences providing supportive and counseling services to individuals in schools, hospitals, outpatient clinics and in the home.
At Wreh's Wellness Services, we enjoy working with children (ages 5+), families, adolescents, couples, individuals and groups. We work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stressor related concerns, grief and loss, personality disorders, self-esteem, familial relationship challenges, addiction, trauma and other psychosocial symptoms. We have experiences providing supportive and counseling services to individuals in schools, hospitals, outpatient clinics and in the home.
(724) 573-8109 View (724) 573-8109
Photo of Maura Majcher, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maura Majcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Bridgeville, PA 15017
I help women find themselves again – – whether that is by boundary-setting, grief and loss, self-exploration, better communication, empathic support or all of the above.
Hello! My name is Maura Majcher with In The Now Counseling. My practice focuses on the issues faced by women, kids/ adolescents, and couples. Life can be absolutely overwhelming. Being in survival mode can get very old. Between the demands of work, school, managing a home, caring for children and being a good partner, it can become too much to handle alone. I have years of experience working with women, children and families where we focus on understanding how every part of your family system plays into how you function and survive.
I help women find themselves again – – whether that is by boundary-setting, grief and loss, self-exploration, better communication, empathic support or all of the above.
Hello! My name is Maura Majcher with In The Now Counseling. My practice focuses on the issues faced by women, kids/ adolescents, and couples. Life can be absolutely overwhelming. Being in survival mode can get very old. Between the demands of work, school, managing a home, caring for children and being a good partner, it can become too much to handle alone. I have years of experience working with women, children and families where we focus on understanding how every part of your family system plays into how you function and survive.
(724) 598-9784 View (724) 598-9784
Photo of Dr. Terra Mauro, PhD, LPC, NCC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Terra Mauro
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CRC
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317
Mental Health counseling experience with anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, adjustment disorders, and mood disorders.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, I have 20 + years experience combined in psychotherapy and rehabilitation counseling. Our busy world demands many tools for coping, problem-solving, and stress management. Personal wellness, positive thinking patterns, and effective self-talk make a difference. Learning to manage life's stressors provides an important base for happiness. Making good choices for yourself improves your quality of life, mental health, and personal wellness.
Mental Health counseling experience with anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, adjustment disorders, and mood disorders.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, I have 20 + years experience combined in psychotherapy and rehabilitation counseling. Our busy world demands many tools for coping, problem-solving, and stress management. Personal wellness, positive thinking patterns, and effective self-talk make a difference. Learning to manage life's stressors provides an important base for happiness. Making good choices for yourself improves your quality of life, mental health, and personal wellness.
(724) 259-7149 View (724) 259-7149
Photo of Mikee Lee Krieg - Women In Balance, Counseling Services, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Women In Balance, Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317
Recognized as 2022 Best of Morgantown Mental Health Practice, we go above and beyond in providing effective counseling to women & couples in obtaining overall balance & fulfillment in their life. We specialize in working with women at various stages in life who may be struggling to balance everyday demands such as being a working professional, motherhood, relationships, life transitions, loss, academic stress, infertility, or simply needing support. Our non-judgmental & empathetic clinicians provide a safe space to comfortably explore life challenges while learning skills that promote confidence to the mind, body & soul!
Recognized as 2022 Best of Morgantown Mental Health Practice, we go above and beyond in providing effective counseling to women & couples in obtaining overall balance & fulfillment in their life. We specialize in working with women at various stages in life who may be struggling to balance everyday demands such as being a working professional, motherhood, relationships, life transitions, loss, academic stress, infertility, or simply needing support. Our non-judgmental & empathetic clinicians provide a safe space to comfortably explore life challenges while learning skills that promote confidence to the mind, body & soul!
(724) 260-5228 View (724) 260-5228
Photo of Vanessa Alimario Meredith, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vanessa Alimario Meredith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317
I also have experience facilitating various groups/workshops including Coping with Depression, Surviving Separation and Divorce, Stress Management, Helping Families Cope with Grief and Loss, and Codependency Groups.
I have 30 years experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, couple/marital problems, addictions, codependency, sexual assault and other emotional problems. I utilize a strength-based, eclectic approach which tailors the course of treatment around the individual's needs. For example, when working with individuals relating problems with anxiety or depression, cognitive behavioral principles may be introduced which examine thinking patterns. Couples experiencing discord may need to work on improving communication skills, rebuilding trust, and enhancing emotional and sexual intimacy.
I also have experience facilitating various groups/workshops including Coping with Depression, Surviving Separation and Divorce, Stress Management, Helping Families Cope with Grief and Loss, and Codependency Groups.
I have 30 years experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, couple/marital problems, addictions, codependency, sexual assault and other emotional problems. I utilize a strength-based, eclectic approach which tailors the course of treatment around the individual's needs. For example, when working with individuals relating problems with anxiety or depression, cognitive behavioral principles may be introduced which examine thinking patterns. Couples experiencing discord may need to work on improving communication skills, rebuilding trust, and enhancing emotional and sexual intimacy.
(724) 398-4433 View (724) 398-4433
Photo of Cristina Panaccione - Cristina Panaccione and Associates, LLC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cristina Panaccione and Associates, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McMurray, PA 15317
Our specialties include Hoarding Support and Treatment, Caregiver Support, Life Coaching, Stress Management, Managing Chronic Pain/Health Concerns, Addiction/Recovery, Family Issues, Children & Teens, Women's Issues, Marital & Premarital Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Grief/ Loss, Trauma, and General Health and Wellness.
Our practice is a small, down to earth setting. We strive to make our clients feel at home and connected with supportive, caring staff. We come from many walks of life and a wide range of experience. We will tailor our treatment methods to best suit your needs so that you can get out of our office and back into the life you were meant to lead! Our office is open 7 days a week with morning, afternoon and evening hours to best suit your needs.
Our specialties include Hoarding Support and Treatment, Caregiver Support, Life Coaching, Stress Management, Managing Chronic Pain/Health Concerns, Addiction/Recovery, Family Issues, Children & Teens, Women's Issues, Marital & Premarital Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Grief/ Loss, Trauma, and General Health and Wellness.
Our practice is a small, down to earth setting. We strive to make our clients feel at home and connected with supportive, caring staff. We come from many walks of life and a wide range of experience. We will tailor our treatment methods to best suit your needs so that you can get out of our office and back into the life you were meant to lead! Our office is open 7 days a week with morning, afternoon and evening hours to best suit your needs.
(412) 961-9683 View (412) 961-9683
Photo of Susan Cononge, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Cononge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317
If you struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, anger, grief and loss, mental/emotional abuse from unhealthy relationship dynamics, substance use disorders, low self- esteem/worth, or just a new awareness of where you are in life and what you want to change, I can meet you where you are.
It's not whats wrong with you, it's whats happened to you. I believe that our past plays a significant role in our present. Genetics, environments we grew up in, and life experiences all have ways of creating patterns of thoughts and behaviors. When people have a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore their thoughts and feelings, they can begin to process the experiences, gain understanding of themselves, and start healing. I pull from CBT, DBT, client centered therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness practices, and psychoeducation to help clients gain awareness, understanding, and tools to move forward from the past.
If you struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, anger, grief and loss, mental/emotional abuse from unhealthy relationship dynamics, substance use disorders, low self- esteem/worth, or just a new awareness of where you are in life and what you want to change, I can meet you where you are.
It's not whats wrong with you, it's whats happened to you. I believe that our past plays a significant role in our present. Genetics, environments we grew up in, and life experiences all have ways of creating patterns of thoughts and behaviors. When people have a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore their thoughts and feelings, they can begin to process the experiences, gain understanding of themselves, and start healing. I pull from CBT, DBT, client centered therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness practices, and psychoeducation to help clients gain awareness, understanding, and tools to move forward from the past.
(412) 685-3408 View (412) 685-3408

See more therapy options for Lawrence

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.