Photo of Abby Leach, Counselor in Mason County, WA
Abby Leach
Counselor, MSE, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hoodsport, WA 98548  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with grief and loss, as well as, death and dying issues.
Are you interested in living an authentic life and being true to the visions and callings of your heart? Sometimes that's not easy when unhealthy learned patterns and/or limiting or negative beliefs get in the way. Our work together can be a catalyst which calls out your inner strengths and resources providing the ultimate guidance to experiencing more happiness and contentment. Life doesn't move in a straight line, instead the path twists and turns providing obstacles and hurdles. It's these challenges that present a doorway to living a more authentic life. You are not alone.
I have extensive experience working with grief and loss, as well as, death and dying issues.
Are you interested in living an authentic life and being true to the visions and callings of your heart? Sometimes that's not easy when unhealthy learned patterns and/or limiting or negative beliefs get in the way. Our work together can be a catalyst which calls out your inner strengths and resources providing the ultimate guidance to experiencing more happiness and contentment. Life doesn't move in a straight line, instead the path twists and turns providing obstacles and hurdles. It's these challenges that present a doorway to living a more authentic life. You are not alone.
(360) 558-3399 View (360) 558-3399
Photo of Zoe Waggoner, Mental Health Counselor in Mason County, WA
Zoe Waggoner
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Shelton, WA 98584
My focus is to help my clients acquire and use 'tools' to help them cope more effectively with anxiety and depression, deep grief, aging, pre-peri-natal and birth traumas, soul loss/soul retrieval, and life transitions.
Are you feeling stuck, confused...and don’t know how to move forward? I now offer A.R.T. or Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and Brainspotting in addition to Clinical Hypnotherapy and Past Life Regression. All are truly unique ways of healing and finding relief. Clients are reporting less anxiety, less repetitive thinking, and more calm. More ability to self-regulate and move forward in relationships, work and life.
My focus is to help my clients acquire and use 'tools' to help them cope more effectively with anxiety and depression, deep grief, aging, pre-peri-natal and birth traumas, soul loss/soul retrieval, and life transitions.
Are you feeling stuck, confused...and don’t know how to move forward? I now offer A.R.T. or Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and Brainspotting in addition to Clinical Hypnotherapy and Past Life Regression. All are truly unique ways of healing and finding relief. Clients are reporting less anxiety, less repetitive thinking, and more calm. More ability to self-regulate and move forward in relationships, work and life.
(360) 358-2961 View (360) 358-2961
Photo of Joy Meek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mason County, WA
Joy Meek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, CDPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shelton, WA 98584  (Online Only)
The goal of treatment is to provide outpatient mental health services, which eliminate or substantially reduce communication and/or social/ cultural barriers. My treatment encourages the involvement of natural support systems available to individuals and families. The goal is the client should live in the community as least restrictively as possible an environment, with minimal Dependance on public safety and acute care resources. To enable patients to establish or maintain appropriate residences and or to advert crisis and re-hospitalization or more restrictive levels of care. The client has the right to refuse treatment.
The goal of treatment is to provide outpatient mental health services, which eliminate or substantially reduce communication and/or social/ cultural barriers. My treatment encourages the involvement of natural support systems available to individuals and families. The goal is the client should live in the community as least restrictively as possible an environment, with minimal Dependance on public safety and acute care resources. To enable patients to establish or maintain appropriate residences and or to advert crisis and re-hospitalization or more restrictive levels of care. The client has the right to refuse treatment.
(360) 252-9313 View (360) 252-9313
Photo of Dacia A Dunbar, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mason County, WA
Dacia A Dunbar
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shelton, WA 98584
Accepting new clients! Growing through curiosity is at the forefront of my practice. I believe that all clients come to therapy with a goal in mind – to reduce discomfort in their lives, manifest change, implement better boundaries, build self-esteem, or become a better version of themselves. Whatever the goal is – I am here to help. Growing through curiosity invites clients to think outside the box and develop strategies for solving their own issues.
Accepting new clients! Growing through curiosity is at the forefront of my practice. I believe that all clients come to therapy with a goal in mind – to reduce discomfort in their lives, manifest change, implement better boundaries, build self-esteem, or become a better version of themselves. Whatever the goal is – I am here to help. Growing through curiosity invites clients to think outside the box and develop strategies for solving their own issues.
(360) 667-1760 View (360) 667-1760
Photo of Rachel Elizabeth Chase in Mason County, WA
Rachel Elizabeth Chase
MA, CYT
Verified Verified
Hoodsport, WA 98548
I hold safe space for you to move through difficulties and challenges. In my presence you will feel seen, understood, validated and empowered. My unique style of healing, coaching, and counseling meets you right where you are. The journey of life is sometimes joyful and sometimes painful. I do not see you as a diagnosis to be solved, but a whole being doing the work of reconnecting with yourself so you can move forward with a clear sense of self awareness and inner strength. We are all souls living a human experience. You are a unique being worthy of love and happiness. Your needs matter. Your desires matter. You matter.
I hold safe space for you to move through difficulties and challenges. In my presence you will feel seen, understood, validated and empowered. My unique style of healing, coaching, and counseling meets you right where you are. The journey of life is sometimes joyful and sometimes painful. I do not see you as a diagnosis to be solved, but a whole being doing the work of reconnecting with yourself so you can move forward with a clear sense of self awareness and inner strength. We are all souls living a human experience. You are a unique being worthy of love and happiness. Your needs matter. Your desires matter. You matter.
(360) 997-5488 View (360) 997-5488
Photo of Ruth Currah, Counselor in Mason County, WA
Ruth Currah
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Belfair, WA 98528
Not accepting new clients
I use an interdisciplinary approach, which means I use different styles of counseling to meet the different needs and personalities of clients. I always allow their feedback so they remain comfortable. I try and meet their perceptual needs, emotional needs, cognitive needs, situational needs, and respect their individual personalities. I have worked with all ages, sexual orientations, ethnic backgrounds (including the Middle and Far East), and social economic backgrounds.
I use an interdisciplinary approach, which means I use different styles of counseling to meet the different needs and personalities of clients. I always allow their feedback so they remain comfortable. I try and meet their perceptual needs, emotional needs, cognitive needs, situational needs, and respect their individual personalities. I have worked with all ages, sexual orientations, ethnic backgrounds (including the Middle and Far East), and social economic backgrounds.
(253) 201-2475 View (253) 201-2475

Online Therapists

Photo of Lizette Arroyo-Dillard, Pre-Licensed Professional in Mason County, WA
Lizette Arroyo-Dillard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98144
I wish to serve people of color and other marginalized groups who are in need of healing and need assistance processing grief, loss, frustration and exhaustion from life's trials and adversities. I would love to work with individuals, couples and families who are ready to step into their power and reclaim their voice. I personally understand that being a person of color poses many challenges in this country and seeking help from clinicians who don't look like you or talk like you makes it far more difficult. I see you and I'm here for you.
I wish to serve people of color and other marginalized groups who are in need of healing and need assistance processing grief, loss, frustration and exhaustion from life's trials and adversities. I would love to work with individuals, couples and families who are ready to step into their power and reclaim their voice. I personally understand that being a person of color poses many challenges in this country and seeking help from clinicians who don't look like you or talk like you makes it far more difficult. I see you and I'm here for you.
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Photo of John B Swain, Counselor in Mason County, WA
John B Swain
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of interest include but are not limited to: Life Transition; Work-Life Balance; Personal and Career Development; Grief and Loss.
As a practicing Licensed Mental Health counselor for the past 25 years, I fundamentally believe in an individual's innate capacity to heal, grow and thrive. My practice is strengths-based and focuses on assisting people in recognizing and maximizing their skills and abilities. I am privileged to assist clients in achieving their full potential and capacity to lead creative and fulfilling lives.
Areas of interest include but are not limited to: Life Transition; Work-Life Balance; Personal and Career Development; Grief and Loss.
As a practicing Licensed Mental Health counselor for the past 25 years, I fundamentally believe in an individual's innate capacity to heal, grow and thrive. My practice is strengths-based and focuses on assisting people in recognizing and maximizing their skills and abilities. I am privileged to assist clients in achieving their full potential and capacity to lead creative and fulfilling lives.
(360) 813-6437 View (360) 813-6437
Photo of Kay Duncan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mason County, WA
Kay Duncan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, ACC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
I work with individuals and couples dealing with posttraumatic stress, eating disorders, infidelity, anxiety, depression, grief, and challenging life transitions.
Perhaps you're here because you want things to be different in your life. Less stress, better relationships, better coping skills, or just to be happier. Therapy can be an important step in making your life more manageable, enjoyable and meaningful. My goal is to create a warm, relaxed, and accepting atmosphere where you can meet the challenges of an immediate crisis, or work on long-standing issues you'd like to change.
I work with individuals and couples dealing with posttraumatic stress, eating disorders, infidelity, anxiety, depression, grief, and challenging life transitions.
Perhaps you're here because you want things to be different in your life. Less stress, better relationships, better coping skills, or just to be happier. Therapy can be an important step in making your life more manageable, enjoyable and meaningful. My goal is to create a warm, relaxed, and accepting atmosphere where you can meet the challenges of an immediate crisis, or work on long-standing issues you'd like to change.
(425) 381-2320 View (425) 381-2320
Photo of Kara Hill, Counselor in Mason County, WA
Kara Hill
Counselor, LMHCA, NCC, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98195  (Online Only)
I also work with individuals and help them through a myriad of other mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, existential questions, grief & loss, faith transitions/crisis/journeys, moral injury, social anxiety, body image, eating disorders, suicide, trauma, women's issues, infertility, and many others.
Sometimes you just need a safe and confidential space to sort it all out. Life and relationships can challenge us to our very limits as we try to love other people and hold onto our own sense of self at the same time. It can feel overwhelming to navigate the emotions, interaction cycles, and patterns at play in relationships. As difficult as these challenges are, they are ultimately the key to our personal growth and development. I work with couples who want a better partnership, and want to feel heard, valued, and understood. I help them find genuine connection in their emotional, mental, spiritual, and intimate relationship.
I also work with individuals and help them through a myriad of other mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, existential questions, grief & loss, faith transitions/crisis/journeys, moral injury, social anxiety, body image, eating disorders, suicide, trauma, women's issues, infertility, and many others.
Sometimes you just need a safe and confidential space to sort it all out. Life and relationships can challenge us to our very limits as we try to love other people and hold onto our own sense of self at the same time. It can feel overwhelming to navigate the emotions, interaction cycles, and patterns at play in relationships. As difficult as these challenges are, they are ultimately the key to our personal growth and development. I work with couples who want a better partnership, and want to feel heard, valued, and understood. I help them find genuine connection in their emotional, mental, spiritual, and intimate relationship.
(360) 646-2093 View (360) 646-2093
Photo of Vermeda Fred, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mason County, WA
Vermeda Fred
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MFA
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
My clients present adjustment issues, anxiety & depression, eating disorders, marital problems, postpartum depression in moms and/or dads as they adjust to new babies, LGBTQI issues, grief & loss, lethargy (fibromyalgia or auto-immune disorders), or just a loss of meaning and direction.
Whenever you think of talking with someone, thoroughly explaining everything from how you feel today, or how you have felt for years, or to the choices you are facing, or how your body and sense of yourself alters things, and you wonder, how do I find that "right" person to talk to? You have found them. Adolescent or adult, individual or a couple, call me for a free consultation, and let's see where to go from here!
My clients present adjustment issues, anxiety & depression, eating disorders, marital problems, postpartum depression in moms and/or dads as they adjust to new babies, LGBTQI issues, grief & loss, lethargy (fibromyalgia or auto-immune disorders), or just a loss of meaning and direction.
Whenever you think of talking with someone, thoroughly explaining everything from how you feel today, or how you have felt for years, or to the choices you are facing, or how your body and sense of yourself alters things, and you wonder, how do I find that "right" person to talk to? You have found them. Adolescent or adult, individual or a couple, call me for a free consultation, and let's see where to go from here!
(360) 800-4531 View (360) 800-4531
Photo of Teresa Michelle Eltrich, Counselor in Mason County, WA
Teresa Michelle Eltrich
Counselor, MS, LMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98332
Focusing on Perinatal Mental Health encompasses all aspects of the journey to motherhood. I find that working with new moms struggling with the transition, anxiety and depression, women working to overcome infertility and the frustration of trying to conceive, and the moms that have experienced heartbreak of loss is where my heart is. The struggles during all of these journeys can be exhausting. Whether it is sleepless nights with a newborn, anxiety and worry keeping you up at night, or the wish that you were being kept up at night because you are struggling with becoming pregnant or have had a pregnancy loss-you have a place here.
Focusing on Perinatal Mental Health encompasses all aspects of the journey to motherhood. I find that working with new moms struggling with the transition, anxiety and depression, women working to overcome infertility and the frustration of trying to conceive, and the moms that have experienced heartbreak of loss is where my heart is. The struggles during all of these journeys can be exhausting. Whether it is sleepless nights with a newborn, anxiety and worry keeping you up at night, or the wish that you were being kept up at night because you are struggling with becoming pregnant or have had a pregnancy loss-you have a place here.
(727) 295-2058 x5 View (727) 295-2058 x5
Photo of Liz Adcock, Counselor in Mason County, WA
Liz Adcock
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98136  (Online Only)
You can move through the grief, and begin to trust yourself and the world again.
I specialize in ADHD, women's issues, career counseling, life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship issues and childhood trauma. When you encounter these things in adulthood, there's often no one to walk you through the difficulties they bring. You need help from someone who specializes in this, who understands how you're feeling and can be with you on your journey, and has tools to help. I'd love to hear how I might be able to support you. I offer Authentic + Empowering Therapy for Adults in Seattle, WA. Accepting New Clients (Updated 1/8/24)
You can move through the grief, and begin to trust yourself and the world again.
I specialize in ADHD, women's issues, career counseling, life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship issues and childhood trauma. When you encounter these things in adulthood, there's often no one to walk you through the difficulties they bring. You need help from someone who specializes in this, who understands how you're feeling and can be with you on your journey, and has tools to help. I'd love to hear how I might be able to support you. I offer Authentic + Empowering Therapy for Adults in Seattle, WA. Accepting New Clients (Updated 1/8/24)
(206) 312-9334 View (206) 312-9334
Photo of Eldercare Counseling and Guidance Services, Counselor in Mason County, WA
Eldercare Counseling and Guidance Services
Counselor, MA, LMHC, GMHS
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98508
We specialize in serving folks who are caring for aging family members, older adults and those living with chronic medical conditions. Our clients report that they feel lost and alone and have a hard time seeing an end to the stress they are experiencing. We recognize the unique loss and grief that can come with aging and caring for aging loved ones. Sometimes, the right support can be a lifeline when you are navigating complex decisions. You are trying to do your best to provide care and support to your loved one and not lose yourself in the process. We understand that sometimes, even reaching out for help can feel overwhelming.
We specialize in serving folks who are caring for aging family members, older adults and those living with chronic medical conditions. Our clients report that they feel lost and alone and have a hard time seeing an end to the stress they are experiencing. We recognize the unique loss and grief that can come with aging and caring for aging loved ones. Sometimes, the right support can be a lifeline when you are navigating complex decisions. You are trying to do your best to provide care and support to your loved one and not lose yourself in the process. We understand that sometimes, even reaching out for help can feel overwhelming.
(360) 858-8159 View (360) 858-8159
Photo of Paige Geisinger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mason County, WA
Paige Geisinger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, PMH-C, CCTP, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Maybe you need support in navigating pregnancy or the newborn stage, or maybe you’re dealing with the pain of infertility, pregnancy loss, or childbirth trauma. Certified in Perinatal Mental Health, I guide couples and individuals through the transformative journey of welcoming new life. Specifically, I love supporting queer couples navigating their fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum journey. Beyond the perinatal period, I help clients enhance communication and navigate neurodivergency. I use modalities such as Gottman Theory, Attachment Theory, and solution-oriented therapy to help clients achieve their goals.
Maybe you need support in navigating pregnancy or the newborn stage, or maybe you’re dealing with the pain of infertility, pregnancy loss, or childbirth trauma. Certified in Perinatal Mental Health, I guide couples and individuals through the transformative journey of welcoming new life. Specifically, I love supporting queer couples navigating their fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum journey. Beyond the perinatal period, I help clients enhance communication and navigate neurodivergency. I use modalities such as Gottman Theory, Attachment Theory, and solution-oriented therapy to help clients achieve their goals.
(206) 717-8551 View (206) 717-8551
Photo of Cascades Wellness Center, Psychologist in Mason County, WA
Cascades Wellness Center
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Areas of treatment: psychological testing/evaluation, stress, life balance, relationship issues, men's health, anxiety/depression, loss, and multicultural counseling.
We are committed to restoring you to your best. Using an individualized, client-centered approach, we work with you to identify strengths and deepen relationships for sustainable and holistic change. At Cascades Wellness Center, our team offers extensive experience as well as a holistic approach to mental health and wellness. Through awareness, compassion, and acceptance, we work with our clients to return you to the life you want and deserve. For us, therapy is not about fixing what is wrong, but about recapturing your capacities to increase your overall health, well-being, and sense of connection in the world.
Areas of treatment: psychological testing/evaluation, stress, life balance, relationship issues, men's health, anxiety/depression, loss, and multicultural counseling.
We are committed to restoring you to your best. Using an individualized, client-centered approach, we work with you to identify strengths and deepen relationships for sustainable and holistic change. At Cascades Wellness Center, our team offers extensive experience as well as a holistic approach to mental health and wellness. Through awareness, compassion, and acceptance, we work with our clients to return you to the life you want and deserve. For us, therapy is not about fixing what is wrong, but about recapturing your capacities to increase your overall health, well-being, and sense of connection in the world.
(206) 258-7498 View (206) 258-7498
Photo of Kathy A. Pregnall, Counselor in Mason County, WA
Kathy A. Pregnall
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (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 Dr. Kari O'Neill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mason County, WA
Dr. Kari O'Neill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027
I am an interactive, solution-focused therapist who offers support and practical feedback to help patients move their lives forward. I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, chronic illness, and grief/loss. I have been practicing for over 15 years and I have previously worked with thousands of patients in need of care in both medical settings and in private practice. I work collaboratively with other health care providers in the community for the best patient outcomes, and I am affiliated medical staff member with Swedish Medical Center Issaquah.
I am an interactive, solution-focused therapist who offers support and practical feedback to help patients move their lives forward. I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, chronic illness, and grief/loss. I have been practicing for over 15 years and I have previously worked with thousands of patients in need of care in both medical settings and in private practice. I work collaboratively with other health care providers in the community for the best patient outcomes, and I am affiliated medical staff member with Swedish Medical Center Issaquah.
(425) 677-8686 View (425) 677-8686
Photo of Christine 'Katie' Eastman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mason County, WA
Christine 'Katie' Eastman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
As a licensed psychotherapist and coach specializing in loss and transition, I support people of all ages before, during and after serious loss by: Providing practical tools for coping with serious illness, death, divorce, retirement and other life transitions, allowing the pain of loss to serve as an opportunity for positive change. Facing loss can remind us of what we value most providing opportunity to consciously make choices that re- affirm these values in all aspects of our lives. Over time, this process of reaffirming and recreating our lives reveals the skills, gifts and talents we bring to the world.
As a licensed psychotherapist and coach specializing in loss and transition, I support people of all ages before, during and after serious loss by: Providing practical tools for coping with serious illness, death, divorce, retirement and other life transitions, allowing the pain of loss to serve as an opportunity for positive change. Facing loss can remind us of what we value most providing opportunity to consciously make choices that re- affirm these values in all aspects of our lives. Over time, this process of reaffirming and recreating our lives reveals the skills, gifts and talents we bring to the world.
(360) 703-9131 View (360) 703-9131
Photo of Arlether Wilson, Counselor in Mason County, WA
Arlether Wilson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
Department of Transportation (DOT), as well as those with I also help those with depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, career and relationship issues, and those experiencing overwhelming grief.
Hello there! I'm Arlether I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor located in Kirkland, WA. I also see clients virtually in Texas. In my practice I work with clients with substance abuse and mental health challenges, helping them regain control over their lives. I work with clients ages 18 and up who are dealing with substance abuse and mental health issues to help them regain control over their lives.
Department of Transportation (DOT), as well as those with I also help those with depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, career and relationship issues, and those experiencing overwhelming grief.
Hello there! I'm Arlether I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor located in Kirkland, WA. I also see clients virtually in Texas. In my practice I work with clients with substance abuse and mental health challenges, helping them regain control over their lives. I work with clients ages 18 and up who are dealing with substance abuse and mental health issues to help them regain control over their lives.
(509) 348-4778 View (509) 348-4778

See more therapy options for Mason County

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.