Grief Therapists in McKinney, TX

Photo of Beverley Benskin, MA, RN, LPC, CT, BCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beverley Benskin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, RN, LPC, CT, BCC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
I look forward to assisting you on your grief journey.
Grief is a normal response to loss, but sometimes we just need a little help navigating through it all. Are you ready to begin to better understand and begin dealing with your issues of grief and loss? Are you feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Then take the first step and call so that we can begin working together on your journey towards restoration and healing. It takes time, energy, commitment, and effort, but I believe reaching out and getting the help and the tools that you need is the best investment you can make in yourself.
I look forward to assisting you on your grief journey.
Grief is a normal response to loss, but sometimes we just need a little help navigating through it all. Are you ready to begin to better understand and begin dealing with your issues of grief and loss? Are you feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Then take the first step and call so that we can begin working together on your journey towards restoration and healing. It takes time, energy, commitment, and effort, but I believe reaching out and getting the help and the tools that you need is the best investment you can make in yourself.
(972) 662-8244 View (972) 662-8244
Photo of Victoria Mercado, MA, LPC-S, RYT-200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Victoria Mercado
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
My focus extends to specialized grief support, particularly for those who have lost their mothers, and I serve as Clinical Supervisor to Hope Edelman, author of "Motherless Daughters.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in Texas, I bring expertise rooted in a Master's Degree in Counseling from St. Edwards University. My journey includes extensive experience in supporting individuals facing trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, women's issues, and grief. Specializing in EMDR and IFS, I offer proven methods for trauma healing and related challenges. Throughout my career, I've drawn from personal experiences to craft personalized treatment plans for each client. My commitment is to stand alongside you, bearing witness to your journey and guiding you toward your unique goals.
My focus extends to specialized grief support, particularly for those who have lost their mothers, and I serve as Clinical Supervisor to Hope Edelman, author of "Motherless Daughters.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in Texas, I bring expertise rooted in a Master's Degree in Counseling from St. Edwards University. My journey includes extensive experience in supporting individuals facing trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, women's issues, and grief. Specializing in EMDR and IFS, I offer proven methods for trauma healing and related challenges. Throughout my career, I've drawn from personal experiences to craft personalized treatment plans for each client. My commitment is to stand alongside you, bearing witness to your journey and guiding you toward your unique goals.
(469) 207-1959 View (469) 207-1959
Photo of Christyna Skidmore, LPC-S, PMH-C, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christyna Skidmore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, PMH-C, NCC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I also specialize in Grief and Loss, Anxiety, Depression, and School / Work Concerns.
You feel as though you are “going crazy”, you have no sense of control, you keep thinking “you’re not good enough” or “this is your fault”, you are emotionally and physically overwhelmed and tired, and feel as though you have lost your independence and freedom. You don’t know where to turn for help because you feel ashamed for feeling this way. You are dealing with an enormous roller coaster of emotions and feelings of inadequacy and judgment are around every corner everywhere you turn.
I also specialize in Grief and Loss, Anxiety, Depression, and School / Work Concerns.
You feel as though you are “going crazy”, you have no sense of control, you keep thinking “you’re not good enough” or “this is your fault”, you are emotionally and physically overwhelmed and tired, and feel as though you have lost your independence and freedom. You don’t know where to turn for help because you feel ashamed for feeling this way. You are dealing with an enormous roller coaster of emotions and feelings of inadequacy and judgment are around every corner everywhere you turn.
(469) 202-4883 View (469) 202-4883
Photo of Ashley Payne Abernathy, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Payne Abernathy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience helping individuals walk through anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and disappointments.
Hi! My name is Ashley Abernathy and I am excited to be able to offer counseling services to you. I believe in the process of counseling and I have seen the relief it can bring to those who are feeling overwhelmed, confused and exhausted. I provide a safe place to process a variety of concerns including disappointments, emotional pain, and sudden loss. My goals are to equip you with tools that will give you confidence to walk through whatever you are facing and to be a source of support along your journey. I believe that God has a plan for the pain in our lives and that there is hope for each of us.
I have experience helping individuals walk through anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and disappointments.
Hi! My name is Ashley Abernathy and I am excited to be able to offer counseling services to you. I believe in the process of counseling and I have seen the relief it can bring to those who are feeling overwhelmed, confused and exhausted. I provide a safe place to process a variety of concerns including disappointments, emotional pain, and sudden loss. My goals are to equip you with tools that will give you confidence to walk through whatever you are facing and to be a source of support along your journey. I believe that God has a plan for the pain in our lives and that there is hope for each of us.
(214) 428-6505 View (214) 428-6505
Photo of Diana Richardson, MSW, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Diana Richardson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I have experience working with hospital staff, first responders and those impacted by trauma and grief.
Everyone struggles from time to time with sadness, stress and worry about the past, present or future. There are things in our life that we can't control however, lets focus on what we can control. Learning coping skills and learning how to regulate our emotions in this challenging life as we juggle the other components in our life. Let me help you with my solution-oriented style and social work knowledge. I recently completed a 2 day Perinatal Mood Disorders: Components of Care and Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychotherapy from Postpartum Support International, I can provide additional support and resources.
I have experience working with hospital staff, first responders and those impacted by trauma and grief.
Everyone struggles from time to time with sadness, stress and worry about the past, present or future. There are things in our life that we can't control however, lets focus on what we can control. Learning coping skills and learning how to regulate our emotions in this challenging life as we juggle the other components in our life. Let me help you with my solution-oriented style and social work knowledge. I recently completed a 2 day Perinatal Mood Disorders: Components of Care and Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychotherapy from Postpartum Support International, I can provide additional support and resources.
(469) 218-4810 View (469) 218-4810
Photo of Aspen Hazel, MA, LPC, NCC, NCMCP
Aspen Hazel
MA, LPC, NCC, NCMCP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071  (Online Only)
I specialize in areas such as grief, anxiety, conflict resolution, problem-solving, and depression.
Hi! Now accepting clients in both Texas & Colorado (virtual only). I wholeheartedly believe in the transformative power of empathy, which, when combined with connection, becomes the essential fuel for success. Many individuals have not experienced the true depth of being heard, understood, and loved, and some may not have felt encouraged to embrace their authentic selves. In counseling, I strive to create a non-judgmental space that is therapeutic, life-giving, safe & conducive to personal growth. Self-awareness, encompassing strengths, weaknesses, experiences, personality type & more, serves as a foundation for setting attainable
I specialize in areas such as grief, anxiety, conflict resolution, problem-solving, and depression.
Hi! Now accepting clients in both Texas & Colorado (virtual only). I wholeheartedly believe in the transformative power of empathy, which, when combined with connection, becomes the essential fuel for success. Many individuals have not experienced the true depth of being heard, understood, and loved, and some may not have felt encouraged to embrace their authentic selves. In counseling, I strive to create a non-judgmental space that is therapeutic, life-giving, safe & conducive to personal growth. Self-awareness, encompassing strengths, weaknesses, experiences, personality type & more, serves as a foundation for setting attainable
(469) 423-9076 View (469) 423-9076
Photo of Robin Newman, PsyD, Psychologist
Robin Newman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75072
I specialize in treating children, teens, couples, and families struggling with a variety of issues including self harming behaviors, sex addiction, grief and loss, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and neurological/develipmental disorders such as ADHD, autism, and tourettes.
Often times life throws a curveball our way and catches us unprepared for the path that now lies in front of us. Wherher its a significant loss, a major life adjustment, illness, anxiety, or relationship struggles, we all need help from time to time. As a licensed Christian psychologist, I value walking lifes most challenging paths alongside you and helping tou find solutions to your current situation. You don't have to grieve alone. You don't have to figure your next step out by your self. Help is available today for those who want healing from painful heart wounds
I specialize in treating children, teens, couples, and families struggling with a variety of issues including self harming behaviors, sex addiction, grief and loss, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and neurological/develipmental disorders such as ADHD, autism, and tourettes.
Often times life throws a curveball our way and catches us unprepared for the path that now lies in front of us. Wherher its a significant loss, a major life adjustment, illness, anxiety, or relationship struggles, we all need help from time to time. As a licensed Christian psychologist, I value walking lifes most challenging paths alongside you and helping tou find solutions to your current situation. You don't have to grieve alone. You don't have to figure your next step out by your self. Help is available today for those who want healing from painful heart wounds
(719) 568-9496 View (719) 568-9496
Photo of Lindsay Pavelock, MS, LPC-A
Lindsay Pavelock
LPC-Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
Through working with different clients I have discovered I have a passion to walk along side those that have experienced trauma and grief.
If you are reading this you are probably in an extremely low spot in your life. You might be struggling with exhaustion and overwhelming feelings including guilt, confusion, and even anger. Building relationships with clients is crucial and the first step is ensuring that you have an environment where you can face the good, the bad, and the ugly (because we all have them). Once a solid relationship is established, we can take a look at what is keeping you from leading an authentic life. It is beneficial to recognize patterns that have consistently been present throughout your life, using education/tools when needed.
Through working with different clients I have discovered I have a passion to walk along side those that have experienced trauma and grief.
If you are reading this you are probably in an extremely low spot in your life. You might be struggling with exhaustion and overwhelming feelings including guilt, confusion, and even anger. Building relationships with clients is crucial and the first step is ensuring that you have an environment where you can face the good, the bad, and the ugly (because we all have them). Once a solid relationship is established, we can take a look at what is keeping you from leading an authentic life. It is beneficial to recognize patterns that have consistently been present throughout your life, using education/tools when needed.
(469) 896-3445 View (469) 896-3445
Photo of Joshua Sturdivant, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joshua Sturdivant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and senior adults with issues including depression, anxiety, grief/ loss, self-esteem, anger management, trauma, and adjusting to and coping with life’s stressors. I also have experience in assisting LGBTQ+ clients with identity exploration and transition.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and senior adults with issues including depression, anxiety, grief/ loss, self-esteem, anger management, trauma, and adjusting to and coping with life’s stressors. I also have experience in assisting LGBTQ+ clients with identity exploration and transition.
(972) 884-5842 View (972) 884-5842
Photo of Kathy A Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathy A Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
If you are searching for how to live a life where grief is a part of who you are and not all of who you are- I can help.
People keep telling you that you are so strong and yet you don't feel strong. You feel overwhelmed by the idea of being strong. You are surrounded by friends and family who keep asking what they can do for you, but you don't know what to say. You feel loved by the people around you and you also feel alone. You want to find yourself again and to have hope for the future.
If you are searching for how to live a life where grief is a part of who you are and not all of who you are- I can help.
People keep telling you that you are so strong and yet you don't feel strong. You feel overwhelmed by the idea of being strong. You are surrounded by friends and family who keep asking what they can do for you, but you don't know what to say. You feel loved by the people around you and you also feel alone. You want to find yourself again and to have hope for the future.
(469) 481-1703 View (469) 481-1703
Photo of Michelle Duke, LPC, LCDC-i, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Duke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC-i
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071  (Online Only)
I have also worked with many individuals suffering with grief and loss as well as working with those suffering from various traumatic events.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor-Intern, and a Texas certified school counselor. I love working with teenagers/adolescents as I work as a crisis counselor in a North Texas school district. I also enjoy working with adults and specialize in trauma, depression/anxiety, grief and parenting challenges.
I have also worked with many individuals suffering with grief and loss as well as working with those suffering from various traumatic events.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor-Intern, and a Texas certified school counselor. I love working with teenagers/adolescents as I work as a crisis counselor in a North Texas school district. I also enjoy working with adults and specialize in trauma, depression/anxiety, grief and parenting challenges.
(915) 223-7999 View (915) 223-7999
Photo of Adriana Lewin, MA, LPC , EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adriana Lewin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC , EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
After the death of a sibling and then becoming a parental caregiver to a cancer survivor, I understand uniquely the impact of anxiety, trauma, loss, grief, and the need for a place to process it at YOUR pace without feeling minimized in your struggle.
You were keeping it together, but your coping strategies no longer keep anxiety or depression at bay. Do you feel alone, angry and hurt? Are your mood, your relationships and/or your work-life balance are starting to feel a tad bit strained? We really dig into the root of your limiting thoughts, self-sabotaging behaviors, and why you feel the way you do so you can finally thrive, even after trauma, loss, or childhood trauma. I help adults who want to stop feeling lonely, hurt, angry, overwhelmed, easily triggered and hopeless gain clarity, find peace with the past, build resilience for the present, and create change that lasts.
After the death of a sibling and then becoming a parental caregiver to a cancer survivor, I understand uniquely the impact of anxiety, trauma, loss, grief, and the need for a place to process it at YOUR pace without feeling minimized in your struggle.
You were keeping it together, but your coping strategies no longer keep anxiety or depression at bay. Do you feel alone, angry and hurt? Are your mood, your relationships and/or your work-life balance are starting to feel a tad bit strained? We really dig into the root of your limiting thoughts, self-sabotaging behaviors, and why you feel the way you do so you can finally thrive, even after trauma, loss, or childhood trauma. I help adults who want to stop feeling lonely, hurt, angry, overwhelmed, easily triggered and hopeless gain clarity, find peace with the past, build resilience for the present, and create change that lasts.
(469) 854-9678 View (469) 854-9678
Photo of Sandra J McKnight, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra J McKnight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75072  (Online Only)
As you consider embarking on the journey of therapy, it's essential to find a therapist who truly understands and empathizes with the challenges you're facing. I specialize in providing compassionate and effective therapy for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, and grief. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs.
As you consider embarking on the journey of therapy, it's essential to find a therapist who truly understands and empathizes with the challenges you're facing. I specialize in providing compassionate and effective therapy for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, and grief. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs.
(214) 833-8980 View (214) 833-8980
Photo of Sarah Autry, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Autry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Sarah began her career as a medical social worker in hospice and end-of-life care and has also worked in inpatient psychiatric settings. She has extensive experience in crisis intervention as well, making her an asset to clients who are experiencing the full range of complex emotions and concerns. She can treat Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Chronic Illness & Pain, Codependency, Complex PTSD, Crisis Intervention, Depression, Domestic Violence & Abuse, Grief, Loss, Post-Partum Concerns, Self Esteem, Sexual Abuse, School Issues, Suicidal Ideation/Self Harm, Substance Use, and Trauma/PTSD.
Sarah began her career as a medical social worker in hospice and end-of-life care and has also worked in inpatient psychiatric settings. She has extensive experience in crisis intervention as well, making her an asset to clients who are experiencing the full range of complex emotions and concerns. She can treat Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Chronic Illness & Pain, Codependency, Complex PTSD, Crisis Intervention, Depression, Domestic Violence & Abuse, Grief, Loss, Post-Partum Concerns, Self Esteem, Sexual Abuse, School Issues, Suicidal Ideation/Self Harm, Substance Use, and Trauma/PTSD.
(469) 423-8513 View (469) 423-8513
Photo of Brittany Kelly, MS, NCC
Brittany Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
Power struggles at home? Want more connection and less conflict? I am here to help you better understand your child's struggles and build a positive relationship. I specialize in play therapy, adolescent therapy, family play therapy, and child-parent relationship training. While at the SMU Center for Family Counseling and Journey of Hope, I gained experience working with children, adolescents, parents, groups, and adults with a wide range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and grief. Prior to counseling, I spent 12 years as a nonprofit leader. I love art, music, hiking, and time with family and friends.
Power struggles at home? Want more connection and less conflict? I am here to help you better understand your child's struggles and build a positive relationship. I specialize in play therapy, adolescent therapy, family play therapy, and child-parent relationship training. While at the SMU Center for Family Counseling and Journey of Hope, I gained experience working with children, adolescents, parents, groups, and adults with a wide range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and grief. Prior to counseling, I spent 12 years as a nonprofit leader. I love art, music, hiking, and time with family and friends.
(469) 658-0930 View (469) 658-0930
Photo of Jessica Gallant, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Gallant
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I offer faith-based therapy for teens, adult individuals, and couples. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues, or other concerns, I would be honored to join you wherever you are on life’s journey as you search to find peace and restoration. In my practice I am committed to finding the best approach for each client’s unique needs and goals. My goal as your counselor is to support, encourage, and help you through life and the various challenges you face.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I offer faith-based therapy for teens, adult individuals, and couples. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues, or other concerns, I would be honored to join you wherever you are on life’s journey as you search to find peace and restoration. In my practice I am committed to finding the best approach for each client’s unique needs and goals. My goal as your counselor is to support, encourage, and help you through life and the various challenges you face.
(469) 908-4127 View (469) 908-4127
Photo of David Terpstra, MEd, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Terpstra
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Pursuing help is not always an easy step to take. Friends are important, but certain things should be handled with a caring professional who will work to understand each person's situation. Whether your life is stressed, you've had a recent loss, your mood has sunk, or you feel unfulfilled, I believe that I could help you. A good therapist will listen empathically, help clients share, provide feedback, and talk with clients about solutions to life's challenges. I see both individuals and couples for counseling with a variety of issues and concerns and would be glad to meet with you. Be encouraged: even 1-2 degrees of change matters.
Pursuing help is not always an easy step to take. Friends are important, but certain things should be handled with a caring professional who will work to understand each person's situation. Whether your life is stressed, you've had a recent loss, your mood has sunk, or you feel unfulfilled, I believe that I could help you. A good therapist will listen empathically, help clients share, provide feedback, and talk with clients about solutions to life's challenges. I see both individuals and couples for counseling with a variety of issues and concerns and would be glad to meet with you. Be encouraged: even 1-2 degrees of change matters.
(469) 658-7079 View (469) 658-7079
Photo of Sandra L Shelton, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandra L Shelton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I have been in education for 35 years and served adolescents as a counselor for the past 20 years. My areas of interest include anxiety, panic attacks, grief and phobias that clients often experience. What I find most helpful to people is to provide a warm and safe place to express the feelings and experiences in a non-judgmental atmosphere. I also believe it is important to instill confidence in them. These days it seems the relationship between client and therapist is more important than ever and I hope to build such bonds.
I have been in education for 35 years and served adolescents as a counselor for the past 20 years. My areas of interest include anxiety, panic attacks, grief and phobias that clients often experience. What I find most helpful to people is to provide a warm and safe place to express the feelings and experiences in a non-judgmental atmosphere. I also believe it is important to instill confidence in them. These days it seems the relationship between client and therapist is more important than ever and I hope to build such bonds.
(214) 833-8522 View (214) 833-8522
Photo of Heather Wallis, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Wallis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
I believe in embracing creative expression, growth, and inner wisdom. As a therapist, I love to explore alternative healing techniques and strength-focused interventions. I have great deal of experience working with people who have experienced trauma or are navigating crisis, grief, and/or loss. I believe it is important to do the deep work of healing through trauma-informed practices. I also love facilitating groups, training, and teaching experiences to promote community and individual learning.
I believe in embracing creative expression, growth, and inner wisdom. As a therapist, I love to explore alternative healing techniques and strength-focused interventions. I have great deal of experience working with people who have experienced trauma or are navigating crisis, grief, and/or loss. I believe it is important to do the deep work of healing through trauma-informed practices. I also love facilitating groups, training, and teaching experiences to promote community and individual learning.
(972) 961-4115 View (972) 961-4115
Photo of Edwina Townsend, MEd, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Edwina Townsend
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Some of my specialty areas are: depression, anxiety, grief, divorce issues, co-dependency, parenting, family issues, Benzodiazepine withdrawal and/or tapper support, Narcissistic abuse recovery and EMDR.
"Life's real purpose is to find happiness," - The Dalai Lama. You and your family deserve to enjoy all life has to offer. I believe people are capable of positive change. I offer ethical, researched based counseling services; with evening and Saturday appointments available.
Some of my specialty areas are: depression, anxiety, grief, divorce issues, co-dependency, parenting, family issues, Benzodiazepine withdrawal and/or tapper support, Narcissistic abuse recovery and EMDR.
"Life's real purpose is to find happiness," - The Dalai Lama. You and your family deserve to enjoy all life has to offer. I believe people are capable of positive change. I offer ethical, researched based counseling services; with evening and Saturday appointments available.
(972) 914-5589 View (972) 914-5589
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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.