Grief Therapists in LaFollette, TN

Photo of Kenneth Alcorn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kenneth Alcorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
LaFollette, TN 37766  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who feels that life has lost its way and they aren't sure how to get back on track. Whether the cause is depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, or stress, people need to feel like they have some control over life to be powerful and mental health struggles make it hard to exercise that control.
My ideal client is someone who feels that life has lost its way and they aren't sure how to get back on track. Whether the cause is depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, or stress, people need to feel like they have some control over life to be powerful and mental health struggles make it hard to exercise that control.
(423) 401-9032 View (423) 401-9032
Photo of Amy Vann, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Vann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
LaFollette, TN 37766
Counseling is not someone else fixing your problems or telling you what to do; that is up to you as you are the expert of your life. It requires a person to dig deep within themselves for self awareness, understanding, acceptance, forgiveness, and/or healing. This can be uncomfortable work taking one outside their comfort zone which involves courage and resolve (grit). Courteous goodwill (grace) to oneself is often needed as people tend to treat themselves way harsher than they treat others. I believe the counseling process involves part grit and part grace, with both being needed to heal and thereby strengthening your character.
Counseling is not someone else fixing your problems or telling you what to do; that is up to you as you are the expert of your life. It requires a person to dig deep within themselves for self awareness, understanding, acceptance, forgiveness, and/or healing. This can be uncomfortable work taking one outside their comfort zone which involves courage and resolve (grit). Courteous goodwill (grace) to oneself is often needed as people tend to treat themselves way harsher than they treat others. I believe the counseling process involves part grit and part grace, with both being needed to heal and thereby strengthening your character.
(423) 690-7264 View (423) 690-7264
Photo of Natalie deJarnette, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natalie deJarnette
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
LaFollette, TN 37766  (Online Only)
I am a firm believer that the client is the expert when it comes to their life and I am just here as support to help them work through their challenges. I mostly work with adult clients struggling with mood disorders, psychotic disorders, trauma, or those in need of stress management skills. I believe that every client is different and we will work together to create a treatment plan that works best for your goals and needs.
I am a firm believer that the client is the expert when it comes to their life and I am just here as support to help them work through their challenges. I mostly work with adult clients struggling with mood disorders, psychotic disorders, trauma, or those in need of stress management skills. I believe that every client is different and we will work together to create a treatment plan that works best for your goals and needs.
(254) 294-2355 View (254) 294-2355
Photo of Austin Lowe, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Austin Lowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
LaFollette, TN 37766
Life is an ever changing process. Whether it is the people we surround ourselves with, the classes/job we work, or our own physical well-being, few things remain the same. Sometimes, these changes bring on new challenges we feel unprepared to deal with; this past year, the COVID-19 pandemic left several of us feeling alone and ill-equipped for what it brought. In times like these, therapy can be helpful in working through such issues.
Life is an ever changing process. Whether it is the people we surround ourselves with, the classes/job we work, or our own physical well-being, few things remain the same. Sometimes, these changes bring on new challenges we feel unprepared to deal with; this past year, the COVID-19 pandemic left several of us feeling alone and ill-equipped for what it brought. In times like these, therapy can be helpful in working through such issues.
(423) 481-9436 View (423) 481-9436

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Wes Allen, PhD, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Wes Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37912
My work as a counselor focuses on helping individuals use the strengths they already possess to enact positive change within their lives. I firmly believe that as people, we possess the powers within us to solve almost any problem that life throws at us. Sometimes, as the result of things we encounter in life, be it: trauma, messages learned in childhood, patterns of thought that are no longer needed, grief, or other difficult life experiences, we have trouble finding the path to the answers within us. As a counselor, I feel privileged to help people find the paths to the answers they seek.
My work as a counselor focuses on helping individuals use the strengths they already possess to enact positive change within their lives. I firmly believe that as people, we possess the powers within us to solve almost any problem that life throws at us. Sometimes, as the result of things we encounter in life, be it: trauma, messages learned in childhood, patterns of thought that are no longer needed, grief, or other difficult life experiences, we have trouble finding the path to the answers within us. As a counselor, I feel privileged to help people find the paths to the answers they seek.
(865) 344-6811 View (865) 344-6811
Photo of Cody Dewayne York, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cody Dewayne York
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Cookeville, TN 38501
“Did you know that there are some seeds that cannot sprout unless they are first burned? Sometimes breaking is making. Even Iron can start again, and there are many things that can move through fire and find themselves much better for it afterward.” Kerrek, Critical Role. Sometimes we are confronted with difficult thoughts and experiences that can feel uncomfortable or impossible. I offer a relaxed environment to help you along that journey; be that depression or anxiety, life changes, grief or loss, mood disorders, etc. I strive to make sure I understand your place within in your story and want to help you get to your next chapter.
“Did you know that there are some seeds that cannot sprout unless they are first burned? Sometimes breaking is making. Even Iron can start again, and there are many things that can move through fire and find themselves much better for it afterward.” Kerrek, Critical Role. Sometimes we are confronted with difficult thoughts and experiences that can feel uncomfortable or impossible. I offer a relaxed environment to help you along that journey; be that depression or anxiety, life changes, grief or loss, mood disorders, etc. I strive to make sure I understand your place within in your story and want to help you get to your next chapter.
(931) 271-5789 View (931) 271-5789
Photo of Brandi J Hampshire, LPC, MHSP , Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandi J Hampshire
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Cookeville, TN 38501  (Online Only)
My name is Brandi Hampshire. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Tennessee. I have 10 years experience working with adolescents and teens, alongside their parents. I also have two years experience working with adults in the correctional setting. I have worked with clients with a wide array of issues, including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, OCD, post-traumatic stress disorder, parenting issues, anger management, grief/loss, alcohol and drug issues, personality disorders, and life stressors. My counseling style is communicative and warm. I emphasize clients' strengths and life experiences,
My name is Brandi Hampshire. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Tennessee. I have 10 years experience working with adolescents and teens, alongside their parents. I also have two years experience working with adults in the correctional setting. I have worked with clients with a wide array of issues, including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, OCD, post-traumatic stress disorder, parenting issues, anger management, grief/loss, alcohol and drug issues, personality disorders, and life stressors. My counseling style is communicative and warm. I emphasize clients' strengths and life experiences,
(931) 651-7821 View (931) 651-7821
Photo of Donna Mitchell - Covenant Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC., LMSW
Covenant Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC.
LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37918
Covenant Counseling & Consultation Services (CCCS) is a Christian agency whose mission is to provide counseling, assessments, treatment planning, implementation, and evaluation, case management, and training. We offer at-risk youth and families a holistic approach to mental, emotional, spiritual and behavioral needs with The Lord Jesus Christ as the only true evidence-based provider. Our services include Alcohol and Drug, Grief, Anger Management, Parenting, and Family-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Services with a foundation of faith-based practices.
Covenant Counseling & Consultation Services (CCCS) is a Christian agency whose mission is to provide counseling, assessments, treatment planning, implementation, and evaluation, case management, and training. We offer at-risk youth and families a holistic approach to mental, emotional, spiritual and behavioral needs with The Lord Jesus Christ as the only true evidence-based provider. Our services include Alcohol and Drug, Grief, Anger Management, Parenting, and Family-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Services with a foundation of faith-based practices.
(865) 940-0720 View (865) 940-0720
Photo of Beth Anderson Walker, MA, LPCMHSP, NCC, RYT-200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beth Anderson Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP, NCC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Cookeville, TN 38501
I specialize in grief and trauma support, but also work with clients with issues related to anxiety, depression, and major life transitions.
As a counselor and a fellow human, I have found that deepening our awareness of who we are and the struggles we face, within a supportive, safe relationship can help us navigate life’s obstacles in ways that we did not feel were possible on our own. In time, we learn how to nurture and come home to ourselves. Counseling can be an empowering gift to the self. My therapeutic orientation is trauma, grief, and somatic-informed. I offer creative, mindful, body-centered, and nature-inspired interventions within sessions as ways of tuning into ourselves, understanding our patterns, and cultivating a life we intentionally want to lead.
I specialize in grief and trauma support, but also work with clients with issues related to anxiety, depression, and major life transitions.
As a counselor and a fellow human, I have found that deepening our awareness of who we are and the struggles we face, within a supportive, safe relationship can help us navigate life’s obstacles in ways that we did not feel were possible on our own. In time, we learn how to nurture and come home to ourselves. Counseling can be an empowering gift to the self. My therapeutic orientation is trauma, grief, and somatic-informed. I offer creative, mindful, body-centered, and nature-inspired interventions within sessions as ways of tuning into ourselves, understanding our patterns, and cultivating a life we intentionally want to lead.
(865) 424-2146 View (865) 424-2146
Photo of Alyssa Royce, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alyssa Royce
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
I am really glad you are here. It can be hard to find places where we feel seen and truly heard. Whether you're dealing with profound grief, managing anxiety or depression, or carrying the weight of past traumas, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you on this journey of discovery and healing. With extensive experience caring for people from all walks of life, I approach each person's challenges with deep empathy and respect. Together, we'll create a safe and nurturing space where you can find the comfort and understanding you deserve, along with the tools that will empower you to move forward with confidence and strength.
I am really glad you are here. It can be hard to find places where we feel seen and truly heard. Whether you're dealing with profound grief, managing anxiety or depression, or carrying the weight of past traumas, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you on this journey of discovery and healing. With extensive experience caring for people from all walks of life, I approach each person's challenges with deep empathy and respect. Together, we'll create a safe and nurturing space where you can find the comfort and understanding you deserve, along with the tools that will empower you to move forward with confidence and strength.
(865) 635-9334 View (865) 635-9334
Photo of Sara Anderson, LPC, MHSP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
Sara Anderson is a Licensed Professional Counselor "“ Mental Health Service Provider. Sara is passionate about restoration and healing brokenness. She is deeply committed to helping clients answer life's big questions, gain insight into their emotions, and live authentically. Sara assists people throughout their lifespan, supporting them as they navigate anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, faith questions, emerging adulthood, and relationship issues. Sara grew up in Southeast Asia and spent another 10 years living and working abroad after university.
Sara Anderson is a Licensed Professional Counselor "“ Mental Health Service Provider. Sara is passionate about restoration and healing brokenness. She is deeply committed to helping clients answer life's big questions, gain insight into their emotions, and live authentically. Sara assists people throughout their lifespan, supporting them as they navigate anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, faith questions, emerging adulthood, and relationship issues. Sara grew up in Southeast Asia and spent another 10 years living and working abroad after university.
(423) 556-3197 View (423) 556-3197
Photo of Linn A Davidson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linn A Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37932
My specialties include anxiety, panic disorder, depression, trauma/PTSD, grief, stress management, and bipolar.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or as if life is out of balance? This is the case for many people. Stress and trauma can affect us in many ways leading to difficulty with medical and emotional well-being. Reaching out for support is the first step in the change process, empowering us with the skills to overcome life's challenges. It is important to me to provide you with a safe, relaxing, and non-judgmental space while assisting you in your journey to learn coping strategies and grow as an individual, family, or couple.
My specialties include anxiety, panic disorder, depression, trauma/PTSD, grief, stress management, and bipolar.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or as if life is out of balance? This is the case for many people. Stress and trauma can affect us in many ways leading to difficulty with medical and emotional well-being. Reaching out for support is the first step in the change process, empowering us with the skills to overcome life's challenges. It is important to me to provide you with a safe, relaxing, and non-judgmental space while assisting you in your journey to learn coping strategies and grow as an individual, family, or couple.
(865) 234-4215 View (865) 234-4215
Photo of Tony D. Weaver, LPC, MHSP, NCC, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tony D. Weaver
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Other areas of specialty he treats include anxiety, depression, spirituality, ADD/ADHD, bereavement, stress, ministerial burnout, and men's issues.
Tony is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has extensive experience treating both first responders and military personnel and their dependents for trauma-related issues as well as a host of other concerns. Tony and his family reside in West Knoxville and he is well versed in the Tennessee culture having been raised in East Tennessee. In addition to an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Tony earned a Master of Divinity and served for over 15 years in the pastoral setting. From his broad academic and experiential background he brings to the clinical setting a wealth of wisdom and skill with a unique perspective.
Other areas of specialty he treats include anxiety, depression, spirituality, ADD/ADHD, bereavement, stress, ministerial burnout, and men's issues.
Tony is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has extensive experience treating both first responders and military personnel and their dependents for trauma-related issues as well as a host of other concerns. Tony and his family reside in West Knoxville and he is well versed in the Tennessee culture having been raised in East Tennessee. In addition to an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Tony earned a Master of Divinity and served for over 15 years in the pastoral setting. From his broad academic and experiential background he brings to the clinical setting a wealth of wisdom and skill with a unique perspective.
(865) 234-3426 View (865) 234-3426
Photo of Amanda Hargis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Hargis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Specifically, betrayal trauma, infidelity, attachment wounds/developmental trauma, grief/loss, parental challenges/skills, & adoption competent support.
We heal best in the presence of others. A trusting relationship is key to this process and you’ve already taken one of the most difficult steps…to let another into this space with you. Everyone can benefit from shared space and time with a neutral ally. I have over a decade of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds with various relational needs. My clients describe me as approachable, present, empathetic, authentic, knowledgeable, & candid. Understanding our relational patterns, the impacts of our experiences, & our nervous system cues are essential in shaping new ways of being.
Specifically, betrayal trauma, infidelity, attachment wounds/developmental trauma, grief/loss, parental challenges/skills, & adoption competent support.
We heal best in the presence of others. A trusting relationship is key to this process and you’ve already taken one of the most difficult steps…to let another into this space with you. Everyone can benefit from shared space and time with a neutral ally. I have over a decade of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds with various relational needs. My clients describe me as approachable, present, empathetic, authentic, knowledgeable, & candid. Understanding our relational patterns, the impacts of our experiences, & our nervous system cues are essential in shaping new ways of being.
View
Photo of Kelly Munier, MS, LPCMHSP, Counselor
Kelly Munier
Counselor, MS, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Kingsport, TN 37663
Waitlist for new clients
I have supported parents in dealing with their children's behavior problems, and helped children deal with anxiety, grief, depression, stress, attention-deficit problems, and substance abuse, just to name a few.
Are you looking for a counselor who is passionate about working with children, adolescents, and young adults and their families and helping them grow and change? Are you questioning your parenting skills or are concerned about your child's behavior? Is your child and your family having trouble dealing with a major change like a trauma? Are you troubled by your teenager's worries and sadness? I am here to help! I look forward to talking with you further! **Please see my website: www.growinglightcounseling.com for additional information.
I have supported parents in dealing with their children's behavior problems, and helped children deal with anxiety, grief, depression, stress, attention-deficit problems, and substance abuse, just to name a few.
Are you looking for a counselor who is passionate about working with children, adolescents, and young adults and their families and helping them grow and change? Are you questioning your parenting skills or are concerned about your child's behavior? Is your child and your family having trouble dealing with a major change like a trauma? Are you troubled by your teenager's worries and sadness? I am here to help! I look forward to talking with you further! **Please see my website: www.growinglightcounseling.com for additional information.
(423) 709-8185 View (423) 709-8185
Photo of Korrie Xavier, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Korrie Xavier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37950  (Online Only)
), addiction, complex trauma, attachment, grief, narcissistic abuse, and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).
I view therapy (and the world) through an intersectional, social justice, trauma- and attachment-informed lens. I believe that a diagnosis does not define who people are, have been, or will become and I prefer to work collaboratively to determine what works best in regard to the therapeutic process. My approach is informed by a variety of philosophies and models including Internal Family Systems, somatic practices, and Buddhist/mindfulness philosophy. I provide psychoeducation and support for building resilience, learning effective communication, understanding emotions, and being fully present and embodied.
), addiction, complex trauma, attachment, grief, narcissistic abuse, and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).
I view therapy (and the world) through an intersectional, social justice, trauma- and attachment-informed lens. I believe that a diagnosis does not define who people are, have been, or will become and I prefer to work collaboratively to determine what works best in regard to the therapeutic process. My approach is informed by a variety of philosophies and models including Internal Family Systems, somatic practices, and Buddhist/mindfulness philosophy. I provide psychoeducation and support for building resilience, learning effective communication, understanding emotions, and being fully present and embodied.
(865) 484-3242 View (865) 484-3242
Photo of Leah Nowicki, MS, LPC, MHSP, Counselor
Leah Nowicki
Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
Anxiety, past emotional/verbal abuse, grief, religious trauma, women's issues, worry, discouragement and life transitions/uncertainty are all areas I love working with! I also specialize in treating young adults! With 14 years experience as a full time professional counselor, and an approach that is relaxed, genuine, and honest, I'm ready to help whenever you are. My focus as a therapist is for you to feel emotionally safe, valued, and encouraged. Although Christianity is a focus, I respect any beliefs a client has, and will never give you the "just pray more" response. You CAN find healing, and this is a safe place to start!
Anxiety, past emotional/verbal abuse, grief, religious trauma, women's issues, worry, discouragement and life transitions/uncertainty are all areas I love working with! I also specialize in treating young adults! With 14 years experience as a full time professional counselor, and an approach that is relaxed, genuine, and honest, I'm ready to help whenever you are. My focus as a therapist is for you to feel emotionally safe, valued, and encouraged. Although Christianity is a focus, I respect any beliefs a client has, and will never give you the "just pray more" response. You CAN find healing, and this is a safe place to start!
(423) 515-5361 View (423) 515-5361
Photo of Hannah Fraser, MS, MFTI, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Hannah Fraser
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, MFTI
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37312
Hello! I am a therapist that specializes in family therapy and therapy for children and teens ages 3-18. I also enjoy working with adults of all ages who are experiencing grief, anxiety, or tics. I believe that people are exceptionally resilient. However, there are times when circumstances become too overwhelming to bear alone. Children may have difficulty sharing their emotions verbally and will instead act out, causing stress in the family. My passion is creating a safe space for healing to occur. I work with children and families experiencing anxiety, depression, tics, autism (levels 1 and 2), trauma, grief, divorce, and more.
Hello! I am a therapist that specializes in family therapy and therapy for children and teens ages 3-18. I also enjoy working with adults of all ages who are experiencing grief, anxiety, or tics. I believe that people are exceptionally resilient. However, there are times when circumstances become too overwhelming to bear alone. Children may have difficulty sharing their emotions verbally and will instead act out, causing stress in the family. My passion is creating a safe space for healing to occur. I work with children and families experiencing anxiety, depression, tics, autism (levels 1 and 2), trauma, grief, divorce, and more.
(423) 455-9751 View (423) 455-9751
Photo of Sherry L Lovin, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sherry L Lovin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tellico Plains, TN 37385
I have a passion for working with children, teens, individuals, couples, and families that are struggling from life altering events, such as, physical and emotional trauma, substance use and abuse, addiction(s), marital and relational issues, grief, and or family conflict. I have many years of experience working with foster children/families, and 13 years working in a Christ-centered faith-based substance abuse rehabilitation program. I am very passionate about helping my clients recover from past traumatic experiences that have created long-lasting effects upon themselves and their relationships with others.
I have a passion for working with children, teens, individuals, couples, and families that are struggling from life altering events, such as, physical and emotional trauma, substance use and abuse, addiction(s), marital and relational issues, grief, and or family conflict. I have many years of experience working with foster children/families, and 13 years working in a Christ-centered faith-based substance abuse rehabilitation program. I am very passionate about helping my clients recover from past traumatic experiences that have created long-lasting effects upon themselves and their relationships with others.
(865) 302-3698 View (865) 302-3698
Photo of Katherine Hatcher, MA, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine Hatcher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
I'm passionate about working with families impacted by addiction, grief, and trauma as well as disruptive behaviors, identity development, and relational issues.
There are many challenges we face throughout our lives that can impact our ability to function in various ways. They may affect our personal self-care, interpersonal and family relationships, and work/academic responsibilities. These difficulties can leave us feeling confused, anxious, and isolated. In these seasons, it's especially important to feel a sense of safety and understanding, and to know you are not alone. As a therapist, I want to walk alongside you and provide the support needed to help on your journey towards healing and find what works best for you.
I'm passionate about working with families impacted by addiction, grief, and trauma as well as disruptive behaviors, identity development, and relational issues.
There are many challenges we face throughout our lives that can impact our ability to function in various ways. They may affect our personal self-care, interpersonal and family relationships, and work/academic responsibilities. These difficulties can leave us feeling confused, anxious, and isolated. In these seasons, it's especially important to feel a sense of safety and understanding, and to know you are not alone. As a therapist, I want to walk alongside you and provide the support needed to help on your journey towards healing and find what works best for you.
(865) 269-9502 View (865) 269-9502

See more therapy options for LaFollette

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.