Grief Therapists in Salt Lake City, UT

Photo of Martha Wyld, MA, MFA, LCMHC, Counselor
Martha Wyld
Counselor, MA, MFA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84115
I am passionate about helping individuals bounce back from traumatic experiences. It is common to feel broken, to feel a shadow of who you once were after painful life experiences. The healing journey is one of the most courageous adventures we can embark on. I walk with you into those dark places, offering sensitivity and kindness, helping you lean into healing connection. Among other issues, I specialize in helping individuals explore issues related to grief, depression and anxiety, gender and sexual orientation identities, and spiritual emergence/y.
I am passionate about helping individuals bounce back from traumatic experiences. It is common to feel broken, to feel a shadow of who you once were after painful life experiences. The healing journey is one of the most courageous adventures we can embark on. I walk with you into those dark places, offering sensitivity and kindness, helping you lean into healing connection. Among other issues, I specialize in helping individuals explore issues related to grief, depression and anxiety, gender and sexual orientation identities, and spiritual emergence/y.
(385) 217-6078 View (385) 217-6078
Photo of Vanessa C Perkins, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa C Perkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84124
“If we don’t change, we don’t grow. If we don’t grow, we aren’t really living.” -Gail Sheehy. Change is an inevitable part of life, but it can be uncomfortable and scary. In a safe, therapeutic partnership, change and growth become possible. I have worked in the mental health field in various capacities with individuals across the lifespan for 18 years. I am passionate about helping people navigate life’s changes and challenges. I specialize in helping adults and teens experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, transitions, and terminal illness.
“If we don’t change, we don’t grow. If we don’t grow, we aren’t really living.” -Gail Sheehy. Change is an inevitable part of life, but it can be uncomfortable and scary. In a safe, therapeutic partnership, change and growth become possible. I have worked in the mental health field in various capacities with individuals across the lifespan for 18 years. I am passionate about helping people navigate life’s changes and challenges. I specialize in helping adults and teens experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, transitions, and terminal illness.
(385) 485-8572 View (385) 485-8572
Photo of Valerie Lambert, MSW, LCSW, CT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie Lambert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a certified thanatologist, meaning I have extensive training in helping people who are dealing with complex grief issues.
Before becoming an LCSW I worked for many years as a medical assistant. My background and training in these fields helps me understand and guide patients / family members through illness and / or grief. I also have extensive experience helping people who are depressed or anxious. I believe that it is important to listen to clients and learn from them, rather than approaching their concerns as if I have all the answers. Together we can find ways for you, the client, to grow, cope with, and overcome stressors and difficulties in life.
I am a certified thanatologist, meaning I have extensive training in helping people who are dealing with complex grief issues.
Before becoming an LCSW I worked for many years as a medical assistant. My background and training in these fields helps me understand and guide patients / family members through illness and / or grief. I also have extensive experience helping people who are depressed or anxious. I believe that it is important to listen to clients and learn from them, rather than approaching their concerns as if I have all the answers. Together we can find ways for you, the client, to grow, cope with, and overcome stressors and difficulties in life.
(801) 747-9956 View (801) 747-9956
Photo of Leigh Ann Morse, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leigh Ann Morse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84107
My client-focused approach is multi-faceted, utilizing a combination of techniques and interventions such as cognitive and behavioral therapies, Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Mind- Body Bridging (MBB), Complicated Grief Therapy and the integrative techniques found in mindfulness practices.
At the root of my practice is my hope to provide you with a safe, healing and growth-oriented space where you feel welcome and understood. In that environment, we’ll work together to identify your therapeutic goals and what might be standing in your way of achieving them. My style is best described as warm, grounded, kind and direct. My concentrated work in the area of grief and bereavement adds another layer of insight into my overall practice of working with adults challenged by life transitions, relationships and behaviors.
My client-focused approach is multi-faceted, utilizing a combination of techniques and interventions such as cognitive and behavioral therapies, Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Mind- Body Bridging (MBB), Complicated Grief Therapy and the integrative techniques found in mindfulness practices.
At the root of my practice is my hope to provide you with a safe, healing and growth-oriented space where you feel welcome and understood. In that environment, we’ll work together to identify your therapeutic goals and what might be standing in your way of achieving them. My style is best described as warm, grounded, kind and direct. My concentrated work in the area of grief and bereavement adds another layer of insight into my overall practice of working with adults challenged by life transitions, relationships and behaviors.
(385) 707-1059 View (385) 707-1059
Photo of Logan B Prince, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Logan B Prince
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84124
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, or loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, or your ability to function with your work and career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and frustrated with managing your day to day responsibilities or feel that you constantly fall short of meeting your home and work expectations. Do you wonder and hope that life could be better? Now more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and at a loss about finding there place in life.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, or loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, or your ability to function with your work and career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and frustrated with managing your day to day responsibilities or feel that you constantly fall short of meeting your home and work expectations. Do you wonder and hope that life could be better? Now more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and at a loss about finding there place in life.
(801) 449-1913 View (801) 449-1913
Photo of Rachel Heaps, MSW-I, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rachel Heaps
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW-I
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84107
I specialize in Grief and Loss Counseling, CBT, DBT, Mind Body Bridging, Motivational Interviewing, Substance Abuse Treatment, Domestic Violence, Trauma Work, and EMDR.
I want to normalize taking care of our mental health. We have a primary doctor and dentist to help us be well, why not a therapist? I believe everyone needs help at times to process their emotions and find solutions during adversity. I have over 15 years of experience in the social work field working with children, teens, and adults. I love to serve clients of all ages in their unique stages of life. I particularly love talking about women’s issues, life transitions, and spiritual issues.
I specialize in Grief and Loss Counseling, CBT, DBT, Mind Body Bridging, Motivational Interviewing, Substance Abuse Treatment, Domestic Violence, Trauma Work, and EMDR.
I want to normalize taking care of our mental health. We have a primary doctor and dentist to help us be well, why not a therapist? I believe everyone needs help at times to process their emotions and find solutions during adversity. I have over 15 years of experience in the social work field working with children, teens, and adults. I love to serve clients of all ages in their unique stages of life. I particularly love talking about women’s issues, life transitions, and spiritual issues.
(801) 639-9544 View (801) 639-9544
Photo of Carol Buffi, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Buffi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84129
See new possibilities, increase self-esteem, connect with others, make lasting changes and embrace the best version of yourself! I will guide you through the therapy process in a safe atmosphere where you will feel at ease, learn to make the changes you desire. If you are someone in the midst of life transitions such as recent trauma, grief or relationship, health or employment change, you are not alone. I'm confident that together we can work to equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome any challenge.
See new possibilities, increase self-esteem, connect with others, make lasting changes and embrace the best version of yourself! I will guide you through the therapy process in a safe atmosphere where you will feel at ease, learn to make the changes you desire. If you are someone in the midst of life transitions such as recent trauma, grief or relationship, health or employment change, you are not alone. I'm confident that together we can work to equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome any challenge.
(801) 341-1330 View (801) 341-1330
Photo of Jessica Robertson, CSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Robertson
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84107
I work with adolescents and adults who are struggling with depression, suicide ideation, anxiety, trauma, and grief and loss.
I see so much greatness in each of my clients I work with whether they see it or not. I take great care into having a safe, non-judgmental, supportive, and affirming space for my clients so that they can look inward and find their unique strengths and pull that goodness out.
I work with adolescents and adults who are struggling with depression, suicide ideation, anxiety, trauma, and grief and loss.
I see so much greatness in each of my clients I work with whether they see it or not. I take great care into having a safe, non-judgmental, supportive, and affirming space for my clients so that they can look inward and find their unique strengths and pull that goodness out.
(801) 823-2079 View (801) 823-2079
Photo of Julia Ewanowski - Willow Therapy Services, LCSW, MPH, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Willow Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84106  (Online Only)
I use a trauma-informed approach and have extensive training in EMDR, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, ACT, ERP and Advanced Grief training.
Reaching out for support is hard. You are brave for being here! My name is Julia Ewanowski. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I also have my Masters of Public Health. I specialize in perinatal mental health, or mood and anxiety changes that happen before, during & after pregnancy, perinatal trauma, OCD, grief & loss, infertility, parenting struggles, adoption and relationship conflicts. I also treat the mental health conditions that can accompany chronic health conditions, health-related traumas, terminal illness & caregiver burnout.
I use a trauma-informed approach and have extensive training in EMDR, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, ACT, ERP and Advanced Grief training.
Reaching out for support is hard. You are brave for being here! My name is Julia Ewanowski. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I also have my Masters of Public Health. I specialize in perinatal mental health, or mood and anxiety changes that happen before, during & after pregnancy, perinatal trauma, OCD, grief & loss, infertility, parenting struggles, adoption and relationship conflicts. I also treat the mental health conditions that can accompany chronic health conditions, health-related traumas, terminal illness & caregiver burnout.
(385) 375-7250 View (385) 375-7250
Photo of Caroline Pegram, LCSW, Somatic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Pegram
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Somatic
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
I have a wide array of experience working with varying adaptive responses including but not limited to: Flashbacks, Anxiety, Depression, Food Restriction, Insomnia, Isolation, Chronic Fear, Loneliness, Negative Self Beliefs, Chaotic Substance Use, Avoidance, Dissociation - Relational Stress, Anger, Hopelessness, Grief.
Voted Utah's Best Therapist 2022 + 2023. My approach centers the wisdom of our body, nature + relationships as the most valuable components in healing. Under enough stress, all humans make adaptations to survival. These survival strategies do a great job when they are first learned, but when continued outside of the context of their creation, they can reenact + reinforce patterns that are no longer helpful. It’s in this understanding that we work together to identify where patterns began, what behaviors were learned for emotional and physical survival + how we can create new ways of interacting in the world that feel more whole.
I have a wide array of experience working with varying adaptive responses including but not limited to: Flashbacks, Anxiety, Depression, Food Restriction, Insomnia, Isolation, Chronic Fear, Loneliness, Negative Self Beliefs, Chaotic Substance Use, Avoidance, Dissociation - Relational Stress, Anger, Hopelessness, Grief.
Voted Utah's Best Therapist 2022 + 2023. My approach centers the wisdom of our body, nature + relationships as the most valuable components in healing. Under enough stress, all humans make adaptations to survival. These survival strategies do a great job when they are first learned, but when continued outside of the context of their creation, they can reenact + reinforce patterns that are no longer helpful. It’s in this understanding that we work together to identify where patterns began, what behaviors were learned for emotional and physical survival + how we can create new ways of interacting in the world that feel more whole.
(385) 217-6952 View (385) 217-6952
Photo of Chad Anderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chad Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Chad has done specialized work over the years with clients in crisis (including grief and trauma), victims of abuse, children and adolescents, addicts and alcoholics, members of diverse and/or minority populations, and LGBTQ clients.
A clinical social worker with 23 years experience, Chad Anderson has successfully helped children, adolescents, and adults from all races, faiths, and sexual orientations work on individualized goals ranging from improving relationships, alleviating depression, reconciling faith with sexuality, managing addiction to avoid relapse, living with difficult mental health conditions, managing life change, and more. Chad wants to make sure you leave every session with something concrete to work on so you can notice changes in your life now, and recognize progress over time. Each client is given an individual treatment plan.
Chad has done specialized work over the years with clients in crisis (including grief and trauma), victims of abuse, children and adolescents, addicts and alcoholics, members of diverse and/or minority populations, and LGBTQ clients.
A clinical social worker with 23 years experience, Chad Anderson has successfully helped children, adolescents, and adults from all races, faiths, and sexual orientations work on individualized goals ranging from improving relationships, alleviating depression, reconciling faith with sexuality, managing addiction to avoid relapse, living with difficult mental health conditions, managing life change, and more. Chad wants to make sure you leave every session with something concrete to work on so you can notice changes in your life now, and recognize progress over time. Each client is given an individual treatment plan.
(385) 257-3550 View (385) 257-3550
Photo of Jasmine Fitzsimmons, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasmine Fitzsimmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84109  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with adults encountering challenges with anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, life transitions, grief & loss of varying kinds, and cancer/chronic illnesses.
Feeling overwhelmed, lost, or defeated? Life sure can have some drastic peaks and valleys. Seeking support is the first step in choosing yourself and a step closer towards the fulfilled life you deserve. I’m glad you’re embarking on this journey. I have 10+ years of experience in the mental health field and feel incredibly fortunate to support people in their most challenging times. I strive to facilitate a compassionate and welcoming space where clients may feel safe and understood while we work together to integrate your personal strengths with research proven therapeutic practices propelling you towards your unique goals.
I specialize in working with adults encountering challenges with anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, life transitions, grief & loss of varying kinds, and cancer/chronic illnesses.
Feeling overwhelmed, lost, or defeated? Life sure can have some drastic peaks and valleys. Seeking support is the first step in choosing yourself and a step closer towards the fulfilled life you deserve. I’m glad you’re embarking on this journey. I have 10+ years of experience in the mental health field and feel incredibly fortunate to support people in their most challenging times. I strive to facilitate a compassionate and welcoming space where clients may feel safe and understood while we work together to integrate your personal strengths with research proven therapeutic practices propelling you towards your unique goals.
(801) 923-4086 View (801) 923-4086
Photo of Hunter Benson, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hunter Benson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
I help teens, adults, and elders experiencing grief and loss, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, struggles with self-esteem and body image, and struggles with life transitions. I believe that good therapy is centered on you, the individual.
I help teens, adults, and elders experiencing grief and loss, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, struggles with self-esteem and body image, and struggles with life transitions. I believe that good therapy is centered on you, the individual.
(385) 213-1347 View (385) 213-1347
Photo of Julia McCarrier Edwards, MSCHMC, Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julia McCarrier Edwards
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSCHMC, Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84107
Life brings challenges in all shapes and sizes, and it can often feel overwhelming. Therapy can be a space to explore your struggles and work to find solutions. I enjoy working with a wide range of clients, particularly first responders, individuals, and couples experiencing grief, difficulties from trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions.
Life brings challenges in all shapes and sizes, and it can often feel overwhelming. Therapy can be a space to explore your struggles and work to find solutions. I enjoy working with a wide range of clients, particularly first responders, individuals, and couples experiencing grief, difficulties from trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions.
(385) 313-0055 View (385) 313-0055
Photo of Simon Wilson, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Simon Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84111  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing the effects of trauma, or seeking ways to express grief and loss? I'm a dedicated practitioner of EMDR and other transformative healing modalities. Trauma can alter our lives profoundly, echoing into our adult years. While sometimes our minds and bodies can process these events independently, often, we need additional support to release and express this energy. Whether you're dealing with recent stressors or long-standing issues, I'm here to support you on your journey toward healing. I believe deeply in the power of our innate inner wisdom—that each of us possesses everything necessary for our own healing.
Are you experiencing the effects of trauma, or seeking ways to express grief and loss? I'm a dedicated practitioner of EMDR and other transformative healing modalities. Trauma can alter our lives profoundly, echoing into our adult years. While sometimes our minds and bodies can process these events independently, often, we need additional support to release and express this energy. Whether you're dealing with recent stressors or long-standing issues, I'm here to support you on your journey toward healing. I believe deeply in the power of our innate inner wisdom—that each of us possesses everything necessary for our own healing.
(385) 327-8063 View (385) 327-8063
Photo of Jady Brooks, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jady Brooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84101  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma work, PTSD, grief and loss, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
I believe the emotions and experiences we face in life are complex and inform the development of a wholly wonderful human being. As a companion, guide, and witness to your lives, I am honored to be able to allow for the growth of compassion and the understanding of feelings, emotions, values and beliefs. Believe me, there is no greater joy than to help others in these ways, and I am honored to work with the individuals and families who seek to better experience this wondrous life.
I specialize in trauma work, PTSD, grief and loss, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
I believe the emotions and experiences we face in life are complex and inform the development of a wholly wonderful human being. As a companion, guide, and witness to your lives, I am honored to be able to allow for the growth of compassion and the understanding of feelings, emotions, values and beliefs. Believe me, there is no greater joy than to help others in these ways, and I am honored to work with the individuals and families who seek to better experience this wondrous life.
(385) 475-5445 View (385) 475-5445
Photo of Julia Lehr, LCSW, AMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Lehr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84106  (Online Only)
Beginning the process of healing can be both beautiful and activate challenging emotions that are hard to face alone. I support individuals and couples track hard to see patterns, themes, and truths with compassion and kindness. It can be vulnerable to sit with tough emotions and discomfort often associated with grief and emotional pain. My goal is to guide clients through this healing process so that they feel a greater sense of confidence, pride, and growth. With greater relief from symptoms, clients are able to increase awareness of their patterns and make changes that create long term change.
Beginning the process of healing can be both beautiful and activate challenging emotions that are hard to face alone. I support individuals and couples track hard to see patterns, themes, and truths with compassion and kindness. It can be vulnerable to sit with tough emotions and discomfort often associated with grief and emotional pain. My goal is to guide clients through this healing process so that they feel a greater sense of confidence, pride, and growth. With greater relief from symptoms, clients are able to increase awareness of their patterns and make changes that create long term change.
(970) 442-5271 View (970) 442-5271
Photo of Emily Faber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Faber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84109
My diverse practice focuses on anxiety, depression, relationships, grief/ loss, trauma, life transitions and coaching among other issues.
I strive to create a safe and supportive relationship with my clients. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, playful and direct. I bring a mindful perspective to therapy and see most of life's transitions and struggles as opportunities for growth. I have been practicing for 20 years and love what I do.
My diverse practice focuses on anxiety, depression, relationships, grief/ loss, trauma, life transitions and coaching among other issues.
I strive to create a safe and supportive relationship with my clients. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, playful and direct. I bring a mindful perspective to therapy and see most of life's transitions and struggles as opportunities for growth. I have been practicing for 20 years and love what I do.
(435) 291-1748 View (435) 291-1748
Photo of Stevie Luna Ibarra, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stevie Luna Ibarra
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84102  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! My name is Stevie (they/she) and I’m an associate therapist, social worker, and death doula. As a queer, neurodivergent, second-generation Mexican and Filipino person in the diaspora, my work is deeply informed by how your mental health is influenced by your identities — the interactions between your own intersecting identities and society as a whole. My clients tend to carry the heaviness of pent up emotions, life transitions, burnout, intergenerational trauma, and feeling disconnected from themselves and others.
Hi! My name is Stevie (they/she) and I’m an associate therapist, social worker, and death doula. As a queer, neurodivergent, second-generation Mexican and Filipino person in the diaspora, my work is deeply informed by how your mental health is influenced by your identities — the interactions between your own intersecting identities and society as a whole. My clients tend to carry the heaviness of pent up emotions, life transitions, burnout, intergenerational trauma, and feeling disconnected from themselves and others.
(562) 273-3999 View (562) 273-3999
Photo of Rob Shaffer, CSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rob Shaffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84117
Looking to connect and work through some challenges? Here’s where my expertise can make a difference: anxiety, depression, stress management, PTSD, trauma recovery, anger management, self-esteem, emotional regulation, imposter syndrome, grief and loss, faith transitions, divorce, and support for young adults navigating life’s pressures.
You’re here because being a HUMAN is hard work. Life can be tough, and it's easy to feel weighed down by its pressures and past experiences. I understand that. You've made it this far, but sometimes it feels overwhelming. My mission is to help you move from merely surviving to truly thriving in your badass life. I blend traditional therapy with practical coaching techniques, providing tools and strategies to tackle life's challenges. Authenticity, honesty, and a non-judgmental attitude are the cornerstones of my practice. By actively engaging with your unique dilemmas, I offer tailored guidance that fits your journey.
Looking to connect and work through some challenges? Here’s where my expertise can make a difference: anxiety, depression, stress management, PTSD, trauma recovery, anger management, self-esteem, emotional regulation, imposter syndrome, grief and loss, faith transitions, divorce, and support for young adults navigating life’s pressures.
You’re here because being a HUMAN is hard work. Life can be tough, and it's easy to feel weighed down by its pressures and past experiences. I understand that. You've made it this far, but sometimes it feels overwhelming. My mission is to help you move from merely surviving to truly thriving in your badass life. I blend traditional therapy with practical coaching techniques, providing tools and strategies to tackle life's challenges. Authenticity, honesty, and a non-judgmental attitude are the cornerstones of my practice. By actively engaging with your unique dilemmas, I offer tailored guidance that fits your journey.
(385) 645-4055 View (385) 645-4055
1
...

See more therapy options for Salt Lake City

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.