Grief Therapists in Port Orchard, WA

Photo of Robin Powell, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98367  (Online Only)
Clients will often say “I went to a therapist and they just sat there and listened and nodded.” I’m more than a listen and nod therapist; I would describe myself as an action-oriented and interactive therapist. I work with clients to identify strengths and focus on negative self-talk that is creating a stagnant or distressing situation. Whether you are trying to overcome anxiety, master depression, cope with grief or loss, or survive your child’s teen years you will reach your goals more rapidly by focusing on your strengths. Let's work together to define your new chapter and move you forward.
Clients will often say “I went to a therapist and they just sat there and listened and nodded.” I’m more than a listen and nod therapist; I would describe myself as an action-oriented and interactive therapist. I work with clients to identify strengths and focus on negative self-talk that is creating a stagnant or distressing situation. Whether you are trying to overcome anxiety, master depression, cope with grief or loss, or survive your child’s teen years you will reach your goals more rapidly by focusing on your strengths. Let's work together to define your new chapter and move you forward.
(253) 600-2804 View (253) 600-2804
Photo of Kipp D Trembley, MA, MATP, LMHC, Counselor
Kipp D Trembley
Counselor, MA, MATP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366
I generally work with folks who complain of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, stress management, anger management, trauma/PTSD, interpersonal conflict, parenting challenges, spiritual challenges, frustration tolerance, and some health challenges to include nicotine addiction.
As a Transpersonal Psychotherapist, and fundamentally client-centered, I believe in an inherent tendency and ability for people to grow and learn about themselves and the world around them. I also believe each one of us has an inner wisdom to tap into. A client is encouraged to boldly explore their own thoughts and emotions in a safe, warm and collaborative therapeutic environment and find new solutions, skills, insight and awareness around life's challenges, both within the person and the persons' life experience. I meet you where you are at, conforming my therapeutic approach to your presenting needs.
I generally work with folks who complain of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, stress management, anger management, trauma/PTSD, interpersonal conflict, parenting challenges, spiritual challenges, frustration tolerance, and some health challenges to include nicotine addiction.
As a Transpersonal Psychotherapist, and fundamentally client-centered, I believe in an inherent tendency and ability for people to grow and learn about themselves and the world around them. I also believe each one of us has an inner wisdom to tap into. A client is encouraged to boldly explore their own thoughts and emotions in a safe, warm and collaborative therapeutic environment and find new solutions, skills, insight and awareness around life's challenges, both within the person and the persons' life experience. I meet you where you are at, conforming my therapeutic approach to your presenting needs.
(360) 345-3765 View (360) 345-3765
Photo of Kipp D Trembley, MA, MATP, LMHC, Counselor
Kipp D Trembley
Counselor, MA, MATP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366
I meet with individuals, couples, families, and run groups. I generally work with folks who complain of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, stress management, anger management, trauma/PTSD, interpersonal conflict, parenting challenges, spiritual challenges, frustration tolerance, and some health challenges to include nicotine addiction. I also provide in-home nursing-aid care, DD respite care, and tutoring. A client is encouraged to boldly explore their own thoughts and emotions in a safe, warm and collaborative therapeutic environment and find new solutions, skills, insight and awareness around life's challenges, both within the person and the persons' life experience
I meet with individuals, couples, families, and run groups. I generally work with folks who complain of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, stress management, anger management, trauma/PTSD, interpersonal conflict, parenting challenges, spiritual challenges, frustration tolerance, and some health challenges to include nicotine addiction. I also provide in-home nursing-aid care, DD respite care, and tutoring. A client is encouraged to boldly explore their own thoughts and emotions in a safe, warm and collaborative therapeutic environment and find new solutions, skills, insight and awareness around life's challenges, both within the person and the persons' life experience
(360) 529-4924 View (360) 529-4924
Photo of Lori Lindholm, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Lindholm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98367  (Online Only)
Life can feel heavy at times, especially when you’re carrying the weight of the past and trying to find your way forward. I specialize in helping individuals navigate the often overwhelming challenges of trauma, life transitions, grief and loss, toxic relationship patterns, and low self-esteem.
Life can feel heavy at times, especially when you’re carrying the weight of the past and trying to find your way forward. I specialize in helping individuals navigate the often overwhelming challenges of trauma, life transitions, grief and loss, toxic relationship patterns, and low self-esteem.
(206) 752-4647 View (206) 752-4647
Photo of Emily Munn, MSW, LSWAIC, MBA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emily Munn
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LSWAIC, MBA
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366  (Online Only)
I'm a therapist with the Rising Phoenix Wellness Center and specialize in grief and couples counseling. Currently, I only provide virtual sessions, but can be available on evenings and weekends at your convenience. My particular therapeutic style is based on not being someone that will nod silently for an hour. I focus on tackling concerns with the hopes that at the end of each session, you gain more and more tools specifically tailored to your needs. When we work together, we are a team built on mutual respect, empathy, and most importantly trust. Together we will find our smiles, curse a little, and learn often.
I'm a therapist with the Rising Phoenix Wellness Center and specialize in grief and couples counseling. Currently, I only provide virtual sessions, but can be available on evenings and weekends at your convenience. My particular therapeutic style is based on not being someone that will nod silently for an hour. I focus on tackling concerns with the hopes that at the end of each session, you gain more and more tools specifically tailored to your needs. When we work together, we are a team built on mutual respect, empathy, and most importantly trust. Together we will find our smiles, curse a little, and learn often.
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Photo of Colleen Bebich, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Bebich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98367
My style of therapy is warm, accepting and compassionate. I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate life's challenges and pursue personal growth. Therapy is the beginning of new possibilities and scheduling an appointment is a brave first step. I provide a safe space to share your story where you can explore difficult emotions and struggles. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult relationships, parenting struggles, grief or issues with work/life balance. You are the expert in your own life and your experiences are uniquely your own. We will work together to gain new skills and achieve desired goals.
My style of therapy is warm, accepting and compassionate. I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate life's challenges and pursue personal growth. Therapy is the beginning of new possibilities and scheduling an appointment is a brave first step. I provide a safe space to share your story where you can explore difficult emotions and struggles. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult relationships, parenting struggles, grief or issues with work/life balance. You are the expert in your own life and your experiences are uniquely your own. We will work together to gain new skills and achieve desired goals.
(253) 243-2486 View (253) 243-2486
Photo of Dan Whitmarsh, LMHCA, MACP, MDiv, Counselor
Dan Whitmarsh
Counselor, LMHCA, MACP, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98366
It is my privilege to join with people in seeking to understand the mysteries of confusion, grief, and pain, working together with my clients to build up strength, gain insight, and develop pathways toward emotional health.
It is my privilege to join with people in seeking to understand the mysteries of confusion, grief, and pain, working together with my clients to build up strength, gain insight, and develop pathways toward emotional health.
(253) 367-3698 View (253) 367-3698
Photo of Patrick Graves, BS, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Patrick Graves
Counselor, BS, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366
If you’ve considered counseling to deal with a difficult phase of life, compulsive or addictive behaviors, a distinct challenge, specific traumas, anger, grief, loss, or other distressing emotions that leave you feeling isolated, stuck, and without resources, now's the time.
Offices in Port Orchard or Silverdale. Couples, Adults, Men, Women, or teens. Humanistic, client-centered, flexible, solution & strengths based approach. Anger, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Relationships, Addictions, Men's issues - change YOU want is my priority. When people feel respected and encouraged, they can grow in confidence and effectiveness. Our work will be tailored for meaningful, enduring change in any circumstance. Using CBT, REBT, acceptance (ACT) plus a combination of contemporary, innovative modalities to build resilience and courage to face change. Christian counseling available. LGBTQ friendly.
If you’ve considered counseling to deal with a difficult phase of life, compulsive or addictive behaviors, a distinct challenge, specific traumas, anger, grief, loss, or other distressing emotions that leave you feeling isolated, stuck, and without resources, now's the time.
Offices in Port Orchard or Silverdale. Couples, Adults, Men, Women, or teens. Humanistic, client-centered, flexible, solution & strengths based approach. Anger, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Relationships, Addictions, Men's issues - change YOU want is my priority. When people feel respected and encouraged, they can grow in confidence and effectiveness. Our work will be tailored for meaningful, enduring change in any circumstance. Using CBT, REBT, acceptance (ACT) plus a combination of contemporary, innovative modalities to build resilience and courage to face change. Christian counseling available. LGBTQ friendly.
(360) 732-8967 View (360) 732-8967
Photo of Alexa Farris, LMHC, SUDP, Counselor
Alexa Farris
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stuck? Ready to make a change, but not sure where to begin? Help is available! I am a mental health and substance use counselor based in Kitsap County and providing telehealth services throughout Washington. I work primarily with adults and teenagers ages 13+. I can help you address a variety of issues, including substance abuse and addiction (including nicotine/tobacco use), depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, self-harm, grief, low self-esteem, and LGBTQIA+ concerns. I do offer letters for gender-affirming care. I currently have a 1-2 month waitlist for new clients.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stuck? Ready to make a change, but not sure where to begin? Help is available! I am a mental health and substance use counselor based in Kitsap County and providing telehealth services throughout Washington. I work primarily with adults and teenagers ages 13+. I can help you address a variety of issues, including substance abuse and addiction (including nicotine/tobacco use), depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, self-harm, grief, low self-esteem, and LGBTQIA+ concerns. I do offer letters for gender-affirming care. I currently have a 1-2 month waitlist for new clients.
(360) 592-3359 View (360) 592-3359
Photo of Shawna Sunday, LMHC, Counselor
Shawna Sunday
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366  (Online Only)
My name is Shawna Sunday and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) physically based in Renton, Washington, and working with clients in-person locally and statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, couples, individuals and specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, phobias, grief or loss, and life transitions, using a basis of Humanistic Psychotherapy with an integrative framework to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
My name is Shawna Sunday and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) physically based in Renton, Washington, and working with clients in-person locally and statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, couples, individuals and specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, phobias, grief or loss, and life transitions, using a basis of Humanistic Psychotherapy with an integrative framework to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Maxie Pape -  Northwest Therapy Group, PLLC - Maxie Pape, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Northwest Therapy Group, PLLC - Maxie Pape
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98366
Welcome, I am glad you made it! My name is Maxie. I am a clinician inside of Northwest Therapy Group. I have found a love of working alongside individuals who find themselves struggling with finding purpose and identity. Whether you are a new parent working your way back to yourself (or your partner), a teen struggling with depression, anxiety, or finding your sense of self, or maybe you're someone who struggles with grief and loss, I am ready to walk with you through it.
Welcome, I am glad you made it! My name is Maxie. I am a clinician inside of Northwest Therapy Group. I have found a love of working alongside individuals who find themselves struggling with finding purpose and identity. Whether you are a new parent working your way back to yourself (or your partner), a teen struggling with depression, anxiety, or finding your sense of self, or maybe you're someone who struggles with grief and loss, I am ready to walk with you through it.
(253) 243-2733 View (253) 243-2733
Photo of Mireille Reece - Peninsula Psychological Center, Inc., P.S., PsyD, Psychologist
Peninsula Psychological Center, Inc., P.S.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366
Life presents many challenges. Our 23 licensed clinical psychologists, social workers, marriage & family therapists and mental health counselors at Peninsula Psychological Center, Inc., P.S. are ready to assist you. We work with people from age 3-90, with experienced therapists in our multispecialty center, helping our clients and their families to clarify their specific concerns and to achieve their goals in therapy. We often help people with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, panic, grief, insomnia & relationship problems. Individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy, and psychological assessment services are available.
Life presents many challenges. Our 23 licensed clinical psychologists, social workers, marriage & family therapists and mental health counselors at Peninsula Psychological Center, Inc., P.S. are ready to assist you. We work with people from age 3-90, with experienced therapists in our multispecialty center, helping our clients and their families to clarify their specific concerns and to achieve their goals in therapy. We often help people with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, panic, grief, insomnia & relationship problems. Individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy, and psychological assessment services are available.
(360) 895-1955 View (360) 895-1955
Photo of Kathy A. Pregnall, MA, LMHC, CMHS, CCTP, Counselor
Kathy A. Pregnall
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366  (Online Only)
My specialties include working with Veterans issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, grief, divorce, adoption, family reunification and coaching.
Seeking counseling can be one of the most difficult decisions a person can make. It is also one of the bravest decisions. Day to day life is stressful, and at times, life tosses us a curveball. My goal is to help you identify your strengths, and help you navigate through the stresses and transitions that many people struggle with. You are not alone, and I am so glad that you are here. Some of my areas of focus are on addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, family dynamics as well as parent coaching.
My specialties include working with Veterans issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, grief, divorce, adoption, family reunification and coaching.
Seeking counseling can be one of the most difficult decisions a person can make. It is also one of the bravest decisions. Day to day life is stressful, and at times, life tosses us a curveball. My goal is to help you identify your strengths, and help you navigate through the stresses and transitions that many people struggle with. You are not alone, and I am so glad that you are here. Some of my areas of focus are on addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, family dynamics as well as parent coaching.
(360) 900-1018 View (360) 900-1018
Photo of Ann Silvers, MA, LMHC, RH, Counselor
Ann Silvers
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98366
Everyone can use a little help sometimes. Whether it's working through a personal or relationship problem, crisis, decision, transition, or loss; changing a habit; overcoming anxiety or roadblocks to success; or learning how to make a good relationship better & increase the likelihood it will be long & happy; I'm here to help. Clients describe me as: "easy to connect with," "resourceful," "energetic," "patient," "pragmatic: concerned with practical results," "logical: can go from the big picture to the application," "skill-building: gives you tools you can use today," as well as "has a great sense of humor."
Everyone can use a little help sometimes. Whether it's working through a personal or relationship problem, crisis, decision, transition, or loss; changing a habit; overcoming anxiety or roadblocks to success; or learning how to make a good relationship better & increase the likelihood it will be long & happy; I'm here to help. Clients describe me as: "easy to connect with," "resourceful," "energetic," "patient," "pragmatic: concerned with practical results," "logical: can go from the big picture to the application," "skill-building: gives you tools you can use today," as well as "has a great sense of humor."
(253) 200-9893 View (253) 200-9893
Photo of Catherine McMonigle, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catherine McMonigle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366
I specialize in helping clients address a variety of issues such as the effects of childhood traumas, relationship distress, divorce, grief and loss, disordered eating patterns, family conflict, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
My style of therapy is warm, accepting, and compassionate. After having trained extensively and been witness to countless stories of transformation, I can say with certainty that healing is absolutely possible. This is an invitation to break free from painful experiences, beliefs, and thought patterns that keep you from living the life you want, and leave you feeling hopeless or weary. I am guided by the belief that what you need to heal is already within you. Together, we will discover your internal source of strength and wisdom.
I specialize in helping clients address a variety of issues such as the effects of childhood traumas, relationship distress, divorce, grief and loss, disordered eating patterns, family conflict, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
My style of therapy is warm, accepting, and compassionate. After having trained extensively and been witness to countless stories of transformation, I can say with certainty that healing is absolutely possible. This is an invitation to break free from painful experiences, beliefs, and thought patterns that keep you from living the life you want, and leave you feeling hopeless or weary. I am guided by the belief that what you need to heal is already within you. Together, we will discover your internal source of strength and wisdom.
(253) 367-2967 View (253) 367-2967
Photo of Sandra A Milton, LICSW, ACSW, Counselor
Sandra A Milton
Counselor, LICSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98366  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals and couples who are experiencing interpersonal difficulties, depression, grief/loss, anxiety, infidelity (either the faithful or the unfaithful partner), or confusion regarding their current or future life situation.
It is my hope that clients gain from counseling specific tools they can apply to their lives to feel better equipped in dealing effectively with their life circumstances. I tailor my counseling to the needs of the client, using various therapeutic techniques to provide clients skills such as communication, emotion management, mindfulness techniques, coping, parenting, etc. I incorporate an educational component, presenting information to enhance knowledge regarding various issues that clients face. I often include homework to make use of the time between sessions. When desired, I approach issues from a Biblical perspective.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples who are experiencing interpersonal difficulties, depression, grief/loss, anxiety, infidelity (either the faithful or the unfaithful partner), or confusion regarding their current or future life situation.
It is my hope that clients gain from counseling specific tools they can apply to their lives to feel better equipped in dealing effectively with their life circumstances. I tailor my counseling to the needs of the client, using various therapeutic techniques to provide clients skills such as communication, emotion management, mindfulness techniques, coping, parenting, etc. I incorporate an educational component, presenting information to enhance knowledge regarding various issues that clients face. I often include homework to make use of the time between sessions. When desired, I approach issues from a Biblical perspective.
(855) 835-6580 View (855) 835-6580
Photo of Larry Hackman, LMFTA, MA, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Larry Hackman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98366
We all have stories of loss, conflict, and anxiety.
When I was 20, during a quiet walk in the woods, I began to weep. To my chagrin a deep well of emotion I had not realized was there was bubbling up and I could not stop it, nor did I know why it was there. I continued to weep, tears streaming down my face, as I went into work that evening. It wasn't until I found a friend later that evening that I was able to process that I had bottled up grief over losing my father at 11, and the ensuing loneliness and anger, for years. It was my friend that helped me give words to what I was going through and begin to find healing.
We all have stories of loss, conflict, and anxiety.
When I was 20, during a quiet walk in the woods, I began to weep. To my chagrin a deep well of emotion I had not realized was there was bubbling up and I could not stop it, nor did I know why it was there. I continued to weep, tears streaming down my face, as I went into work that evening. It wasn't until I found a friend later that evening that I was able to process that I had bottled up grief over losing my father at 11, and the ensuing loneliness and anger, for years. It was my friend that helped me give words to what I was going through and begin to find healing.
(253) 201-2332 View (253) 201-2332
Summit Health Management, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98367
We offer individual and group therapy for a variety of concerns, including issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, pandemic issues, adjustment, attachment, behavior, school problems, identity, and substance abuse.
I am a partner in Summit Health Management, a group founded by an eclectic partnership of four established, experienced providers with the vision of offering a variety of therapeutic services to meet the needs of children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples, and families in our community. Our group’s mission is to provide the region with experienced, compassionate, professional, and proficient mental and behavioral health care. We offer a therapy and psychiatric care for all ages, presentations, relationships and disorders, including individual, couples, family and group therapy, as well as substance abuse recovery for all ages.
We offer individual and group therapy for a variety of concerns, including issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, pandemic issues, adjustment, attachment, behavior, school problems, identity, and substance abuse.
I am a partner in Summit Health Management, a group founded by an eclectic partnership of four established, experienced providers with the vision of offering a variety of therapeutic services to meet the needs of children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples, and families in our community. Our group’s mission is to provide the region with experienced, compassionate, professional, and proficient mental and behavioral health care. We offer a therapy and psychiatric care for all ages, presentations, relationships and disorders, including individual, couples, family and group therapy, as well as substance abuse recovery for all ages.
(253) 215-8451 View (253) 215-8451
Photo of Lauren Ruocco, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Lauren Ruocco
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98367  (Online Only)
Possible topics for therapy include grief & loss, coping strategies, executive functioning, social challenges, school difficulties, self discovery and mindfulness.
I work with adults, teens and children through a solution focused lens to help them on their life journey. I believe that across time we continually grow and change and that sometimes along the way it can help to have some guidance and support.
Possible topics for therapy include grief & loss, coping strategies, executive functioning, social challenges, school difficulties, self discovery and mindfulness.
I work with adults, teens and children through a solution focused lens to help them on their life journey. I believe that across time we continually grow and change and that sometimes along the way it can help to have some guidance and support.
(253) 262-0337 View (253) 262-0337
Photo of Angela Howe, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela Howe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist bringing over 12 years of experience supporting clients through various life stressors including grief, anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, relationship struggles, LGBTQ+ related issues, and much more. I believe that my role in the therapeutic relationship is to listen to your story, provide empathy, spend time working through feelings/experiences, highlight your individual and relational strengths, then use those strengths to help you reach your goals.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist bringing over 12 years of experience supporting clients through various life stressors including grief, anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, relationship struggles, LGBTQ+ related issues, and much more. I believe that my role in the therapeutic relationship is to listen to your story, provide empathy, spend time working through feelings/experiences, highlight your individual and relational strengths, then use those strengths to help you reach your goals.
(253) 258-0815 View (253) 258-0815
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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.