Photo of Mark Liu, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Mark Liu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
My specialties: Loss & grief, life transition, traumas, parenting, couples/marriage counseling, ADHD, PTSD, depressions and anxieties.
I perceive life as a journey, consisting of searching meaning and coping: Meaning in different roles and aspects of life motivates us to move forward; coping is strategies to get there from here. However, at different life stages, we often got stuck because of different reasons. Thus, either we no longer can see the life meaning(s) and/or our coping strategies are no longer effective. We are likely stuck under these circumstances, which leads to sufferings. I believe that counseling is a catalyst to facilitate the needed changes & adjustments to get unstuck and to have a meaningful life again.
My specialties: Loss & grief, life transition, traumas, parenting, couples/marriage counseling, ADHD, PTSD, depressions and anxieties.
I perceive life as a journey, consisting of searching meaning and coping: Meaning in different roles and aspects of life motivates us to move forward; coping is strategies to get there from here. However, at different life stages, we often got stuck because of different reasons. Thus, either we no longer can see the life meaning(s) and/or our coping strategies are no longer effective. We are likely stuck under these circumstances, which leads to sufferings. I believe that counseling is a catalyst to facilitate the needed changes & adjustments to get unstuck and to have a meaningful life again.
(425) 374-0069 View (425) 374-0069
Photo of Carla Ann Kleefeld, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Carla Ann Kleefeld
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
My expertise is in working with interpersonal neurobiology and grief, as well as mindfulness, Archetypal Psychology and dreams.
I am a warm and engaged therapist and bring a deep curiosity and playfulness as well as deep listening and feeling to our process. I have over 30 years of training and experience in the field of clinical and depth psychology. Whether you are an individual or couple, struggling with communication issues or reevaluating your relationship needs and history, I bring an engaged and informed perspective to our work together. I am extensively trained in early attachment, relational trauma, sexuality and intimacy and bring a compassionate collaborative presence to the therapeutic process.
My expertise is in working with interpersonal neurobiology and grief, as well as mindfulness, Archetypal Psychology and dreams.
I am a warm and engaged therapist and bring a deep curiosity and playfulness as well as deep listening and feeling to our process. I have over 30 years of training and experience in the field of clinical and depth psychology. Whether you are an individual or couple, struggling with communication issues or reevaluating your relationship needs and history, I bring an engaged and informed perspective to our work together. I am extensively trained in early attachment, relational trauma, sexuality and intimacy and bring a compassionate collaborative presence to the therapeutic process.
(505) 257-6309 View (505) 257-6309
Photo of Sue Neufeld-Ellis., Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Sue Neufeld-Ellis.
Counselor, LMHC, CSAT, RN
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am excepting new clients in person and on-line. I work with clients on such issues as: Sex Addiction and their Partners; Anxiety; Depression; Codependency; adult and childhood trauma; grief and loss;healing and transition after divorce; family of origin wounds; shame and the aging process. I have a passion to work deeply on healing and changing issues using EMDR; Life Span Integration; and Voice Dialogue (attachment parts work) EFT tapping at accupunture point to decrease anxiety/stress. We use CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) to identify your goals; limited negative beliefs and distressing emotions.
I am excepting new clients in person and on-line. I work with clients on such issues as: Sex Addiction and their Partners; Anxiety; Depression; Codependency; adult and childhood trauma; grief and loss;healing and transition after divorce; family of origin wounds; shame and the aging process. I have a passion to work deeply on healing and changing issues using EMDR; Life Span Integration; and Voice Dialogue (attachment parts work) EFT tapping at accupunture point to decrease anxiety/stress. We use CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) to identify your goals; limited negative beliefs and distressing emotions.
(425) 584-3822 View (425) 584-3822
Photo of Matthew J Bennett, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Matthew J Bennett
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
of IL at Chicago and Penn) allows me to competently work with a diverse clientele, including those with mood problems, addictions, grief/loss, relationship problems, and ADD/ADHD.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist. Passion for my work, empathy, and excellence in clinical training (several years at University of Pennsylvania) allow me to provide effective, lasting results. I use an integrative, eclectic approach combining psychodynamic and interpersonal therapies to help adolescents and adults gain insight and work through varied life concerns. I see symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and relationship conflict as opportunities for change and personal growth.
of IL at Chicago and Penn) allows me to competently work with a diverse clientele, including those with mood problems, addictions, grief/loss, relationship problems, and ADD/ADHD.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist. Passion for my work, empathy, and excellence in clinical training (several years at University of Pennsylvania) allow me to provide effective, lasting results. I use an integrative, eclectic approach combining psychodynamic and interpersonal therapies to help adolescents and adults gain insight and work through varied life concerns. I see symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and relationship conflict as opportunities for change and personal growth.
(425) 374-4661 View (425) 374-4661
Photo of Steven Kubacki, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Steven Kubacki
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I have been providing psychotherapy and consulting services since 1993 for adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. My practice is quite diverse and involves the following services: (1) Treatment of PTSD, trauma, bereavement, relationship issues, depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, borderline disorder, ADHD, bipolar, conduct disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Asperger’s. (2) Treatment of chronic pain, quality of life issues, and psychology problems due to debilitating or acute illnesses, such as cancer and auto-immune diseases. (3) Personal growth, spiritual development, and wellness counseling. (4) Sports psychology to improve performance and motivation. (5) Cognitive, personality, learning, and pre-surgical assessments.
I have been providing psychotherapy and consulting services since 1993 for adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. My practice is quite diverse and involves the following services: (1) Treatment of PTSD, trauma, bereavement, relationship issues, depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, borderline disorder, ADHD, bipolar, conduct disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Asperger’s. (2) Treatment of chronic pain, quality of life issues, and psychology problems due to debilitating or acute illnesses, such as cancer and auto-immune diseases. (3) Personal growth, spiritual development, and wellness counseling. (4) Sports psychology to improve performance and motivation. (5) Cognitive, personality, learning, and pre-surgical assessments.
(206) 922-8133 View (206) 922-8133
Photo of Steph Tigert, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Steph Tigert
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
My clinical experience includes: relational struggles, depression and loneliness, stress and anxiety, grief and loss, body image issues, questions of meaning, abuse, motherhood, and parenting concerns.
As human beings, we are prone to intense joy, deep sorrow and a wide spectrum of emotions in between. Therapy is a place to learn how to navigate these changing terrains of life. As a therapist, I will come alongside you to listen, reflect, speak to, and bear witness to your particular experiences in life. I believe many personal struggles are relational and that we experience healing through genuine connection with ourselves and others. I'm passionate about helping people move from a life of fear and feeling stuck to a life of freedom, feeling grounded, and developing a growing trust in yourself and others.
My clinical experience includes: relational struggles, depression and loneliness, stress and anxiety, grief and loss, body image issues, questions of meaning, abuse, motherhood, and parenting concerns.
As human beings, we are prone to intense joy, deep sorrow and a wide spectrum of emotions in between. Therapy is a place to learn how to navigate these changing terrains of life. As a therapist, I will come alongside you to listen, reflect, speak to, and bear witness to your particular experiences in life. I believe many personal struggles are relational and that we experience healing through genuine connection with ourselves and others. I'm passionate about helping people move from a life of fear and feeling stuck to a life of freedom, feeling grounded, and developing a growing trust in yourself and others.
(206) 457-1701 View (206) 457-1701
Photo of Justine Joslyn in Bellevue, WA
Justine Joslyn
MA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Hello! Since 2007, I have helped couples & families with communication and connection, using coaching, mediation & reconciliation. I also assist individuals recover from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction & ADHD/ADD, with support through transitions such as divorce, loss, abuse recovery & existential or spiritual awakening. My style is flexible and tailored to your preferences, balancing compassion with real results. You'll learn skills that re-connect you with your wise inner guidance, creating steady, calm confidence & energizing you to make smart, bold moves towards your life, career & creative goals.
Hello! Since 2007, I have helped couples & families with communication and connection, using coaching, mediation & reconciliation. I also assist individuals recover from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction & ADHD/ADD, with support through transitions such as divorce, loss, abuse recovery & existential or spiritual awakening. My style is flexible and tailored to your preferences, balancing compassion with real results. You'll learn skills that re-connect you with your wise inner guidance, creating steady, calm confidence & energizing you to make smart, bold moves towards your life, career & creative goals.
(360) 946-0941 View (360) 946-0941
Photo of David S Shen-Miller, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
David S Shen-Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98007
Men's health, anxiety, depression, existential issues, grief/loss, multiculturalism, and work are among my interests.
I am passionate about helping you reach your potential. We accomplish this together through a psychoanalytic, interpersonal, mind-body-spirit integration that draws on your strengths and resources. I believe psychoanalysis and psychotherapy are not about fixing what is wrong, but about using what is working well for you and deepening your skills to increase your health, well-being, and overall freedom and flexibility. I care deeply about providing excellent care, and trying out new ways of relating and understanding yourself that will lead you to optimize your health and connections with others.
Men's health, anxiety, depression, existential issues, grief/loss, multiculturalism, and work are among my interests.
I am passionate about helping you reach your potential. We accomplish this together through a psychoanalytic, interpersonal, mind-body-spirit integration that draws on your strengths and resources. I believe psychoanalysis and psychotherapy are not about fixing what is wrong, but about using what is working well for you and deepening your skills to increase your health, well-being, and overall freedom and flexibility. I care deeply about providing excellent care, and trying out new ways of relating and understanding yourself that will lead you to optimize your health and connections with others.
(206) 966-4256 View (206) 966-4256
Photo of Lisa Hade, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Lisa Hade
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCGC-I, SUDP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
I am dually licensed in mental health and addiction issues. This dual licensing provides me with the skills and experience to work with individuals struggling with addiction related issues and mental health issues such as recovery from depression and anxiety. Although I have a license in chemical dependency, a great deal of my client's have come to me seeking support in areas that are not addiction related. My areas of specialty include co-occurring issues, relational issues, female specific issues, ACOA issues, codependency, and depression & anxiety issues, life transitional issues, self-esteem work, and grief and loss issues.
I am dually licensed in mental health and addiction issues. This dual licensing provides me with the skills and experience to work with individuals struggling with addiction related issues and mental health issues such as recovery from depression and anxiety. Although I have a license in chemical dependency, a great deal of my client's have come to me seeking support in areas that are not addiction related. My areas of specialty include co-occurring issues, relational issues, female specific issues, ACOA issues, codependency, and depression & anxiety issues, life transitional issues, self-esteem work, and grief and loss issues.
(425) 441-3140 View (425) 441-3140
Photo of Svetlana Shjerven, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Svetlana Shjerven
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in the importance of feeling connected in relationships, to our environment, and to ourselves. Addressing the “here and now” that arises during therapy allows our sessions to adapt and work with the difficult emotions or thoughts that come up, in an environment that is judgment free and safe. I specialize in working with those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, agoraphobia, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem issues, grief and chronic pain, among other issues. I am LGBTQIA+, gender-affirming, and enjoy working with clients along the spectrum of neurodiversity and disability.
I believe in the importance of feeling connected in relationships, to our environment, and to ourselves. Addressing the “here and now” that arises during therapy allows our sessions to adapt and work with the difficult emotions or thoughts that come up, in an environment that is judgment free and safe. I specialize in working with those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, agoraphobia, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem issues, grief and chronic pain, among other issues. I am LGBTQIA+, gender-affirming, and enjoy working with clients along the spectrum of neurodiversity and disability.
(206) 347-8488 View (206) 347-8488
Photo of Dustin J Jindra, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Dustin J Jindra
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CMHS, DCR, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, or a reduction in concentration/focus?Perhaps communication breakdown? It's not a matter of "if", but "when" adversity will come to test your commitment to growth, and I am here to offer a skill-based action-oriented approach with measurable results (not your typical talk therapy).
Experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, or a reduction in concentration/focus?Perhaps communication breakdown? It's not a matter of "if", but "when" adversity will come to test your commitment to growth, and I am here to offer a skill-based action-oriented approach with measurable results (not your typical talk therapy).
(509) 486-7993 View (509) 486-7993
Photo of Ravneet Grewal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Ravneet Grewal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I have a passion for conducting therapy with individuals across the lifespan – children, adolescents and adults. I am trilingual (English, Punjabi and Hindi). I work with children/adolescents and families to address challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, eating disorders, hoarding, grief/loss and addiction. I also do couples counseling, family therapy and parent coaching. I also work with women with postpartum depression. I particularly enjoy working with folks who identify as LGBTQIA+ and refugees.
I have a passion for conducting therapy with individuals across the lifespan – children, adolescents and adults. I am trilingual (English, Punjabi and Hindi). I work with children/adolescents and families to address challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, eating disorders, hoarding, grief/loss and addiction. I also do couples counseling, family therapy and parent coaching. I also work with women with postpartum depression. I particularly enjoy working with folks who identify as LGBTQIA+ and refugees.
(425) 215-1799 View (425) 215-1799
Photo of Lala Li, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Lala Li
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Feeling stressed? Want to talk to someone about your stress, your worries, your sadness, your anger? But no one in your life really seems to be the best person for your “troubles”? I invite you to come to my Healing Space and we can explore together using professional therapy techniques including Hypnotherapy, which you will sure find powerful and life-changing! I started my training as a clinical therapist since 2007, got my MSW from Columbia University. My professional interests include Postpartum Depression, Couple Therapy, Grief Therapy, and I am the only Chinese-speaking Hypnotherapist in Seattle area.
Feeling stressed? Want to talk to someone about your stress, your worries, your sadness, your anger? But no one in your life really seems to be the best person for your “troubles”? I invite you to come to my Healing Space and we can explore together using professional therapy techniques including Hypnotherapy, which you will sure find powerful and life-changing! I started my training as a clinical therapist since 2007, got my MSW from Columbia University. My professional interests include Postpartum Depression, Couple Therapy, Grief Therapy, and I am the only Chinese-speaking Hypnotherapist in Seattle area.
(425) 484-9499 View (425) 484-9499
Photo of Paley Burlin, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Paley Burlin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping men who struggle with isolation, feelings of anxiety and depression, blocks to intimacy, addiction to pornography, lack of male friends, a feeling of being lost or without a deep sense of purpose, or feeling numb and disconnected from life. As men, we are socialized to keep everything to ourselves, which makes it hard for us to admit when we're lonely and hurting and in need of support. Many of us grew up with fathers that were either absent, abusive, or detached from us emotionally, leaving us without a respectable model of masculinity and without much inspiration or direction in our lives.
I specialize in helping men who struggle with isolation, feelings of anxiety and depression, blocks to intimacy, addiction to pornography, lack of male friends, a feeling of being lost or without a deep sense of purpose, or feeling numb and disconnected from life. As men, we are socialized to keep everything to ourselves, which makes it hard for us to admit when we're lonely and hurting and in need of support. Many of us grew up with fathers that were either absent, abusive, or detached from us emotionally, leaving us without a respectable model of masculinity and without much inspiration or direction in our lives.
(206) 208-7344 View (206) 208-7344
Anne Coughlin
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008
Waitlist for new clients
I have studied Psychology since I was 12. Being a Psychologist is my calling and blessing. I studied classical and object relations psychoanalysis, cognitive-behavioral, gestalt and family therapies. I believe that our self-image and relationship patterns are formed in our families of origin. We can transcend the limitations of these patterns with courage, honesty and ACTION. Your future can be different from your past if you face your fears, let go of resentments and change your thoughts and behaviors. Before speaking on the phone, we must verify schedules, Insurance coverage and cost to you.Please Email me to begin this process.
I have studied Psychology since I was 12. Being a Psychologist is my calling and blessing. I studied classical and object relations psychoanalysis, cognitive-behavioral, gestalt and family therapies. I believe that our self-image and relationship patterns are formed in our families of origin. We can transcend the limitations of these patterns with courage, honesty and ACTION. Your future can be different from your past if you face your fears, let go of resentments and change your thoughts and behaviors. Before speaking on the phone, we must verify schedules, Insurance coverage and cost to you.Please Email me to begin this process.
(425) 318-8801 View (425) 318-8801
Photo of Preston Jones, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Preston Jones
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Taking the first step can feel unsure, but after you reach out and make that call, I will walk with you through what the healing process looks like together - we will figure this out. I specialize in individual therapy and couples counseling, especially when dealing with addiction and/or infidelity. I use well established therapeutic modalities, some Gottman, and the Authentic Self Modality to help you build a happier life. More than anything else, I believe that we can find the answers, together. You can also see me on YouTube by searching: Preston Jones, Infidelity - 6 steps to building a healthier relationship.
Taking the first step can feel unsure, but after you reach out and make that call, I will walk with you through what the healing process looks like together - we will figure this out. I specialize in individual therapy and couples counseling, especially when dealing with addiction and/or infidelity. I use well established therapeutic modalities, some Gottman, and the Authentic Self Modality to help you build a happier life. More than anything else, I believe that we can find the answers, together. You can also see me on YouTube by searching: Preston Jones, Infidelity - 6 steps to building a healthier relationship.
(425) 217-8566 View (425) 217-8566
Photo of Nicholas Brown, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Nicholas Brown
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I provide a supportive environment where you can begin to move towards healing. Together we create a space where your story is heard, respected, and valued. Therapy can help you find new tools, skills, and knowledge to deal with difficult circumstances in life. We will find ways to identify, understand, and work through these challenges in a supportive setting. My specialties are working with individuals who struggle with eating disorders, trauma and PTSD. As your counselor, I will work with you as we identify the various areas of need and how to attain healing and fulfillment in your life.
I provide a supportive environment where you can begin to move towards healing. Together we create a space where your story is heard, respected, and valued. Therapy can help you find new tools, skills, and knowledge to deal with difficult circumstances in life. We will find ways to identify, understand, and work through these challenges in a supportive setting. My specialties are working with individuals who struggle with eating disorders, trauma and PTSD. As your counselor, I will work with you as we identify the various areas of need and how to attain healing and fulfillment in your life.
(425) 230-5907 View (425) 230-5907
Photo of Adanna Chijioke in Bellevue, WA
Adanna Chijioke
PA-C, MMSc
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
Personable, motivated and compassionate NCCPA (National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants) certified Physician Assistant, specializing in treating clients with complex mental health conditions with medication. My varied medical background in Internal medicine, Neurology, Neuro Critical Care, and Psychiatry makes me well - rounded and medically sensitive, with a commitment to providing first rate care via telemedicine. I received my MMSc in Physician Assistant Studies from Mercer University (Atlanta, GA), MS in Computer Information Systems and BA Economics from University of Detroit Mercy (Detroit, MI).
Personable, motivated and compassionate NCCPA (National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants) certified Physician Assistant, specializing in treating clients with complex mental health conditions with medication. My varied medical background in Internal medicine, Neurology, Neuro Critical Care, and Psychiatry makes me well - rounded and medically sensitive, with a commitment to providing first rate care via telemedicine. I received my MMSc in Physician Assistant Studies from Mercer University (Atlanta, GA), MS in Computer Information Systems and BA Economics from University of Detroit Mercy (Detroit, MI).
(425) 496-6762 View (425) 496-6762
Photo of Dr. Julian Dayton, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Dr. Julian Dayton
Counselor, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Are you thinking about divorce after discovering your partner's infidelity or sexual addiction? Are you tired of having the same arguments with no resolution? Is trauma or crippling anxiety keeping you from the life you want? I help clients navigate these challenges to create healthier relationships, heal from trauma, and create a path forward that supports a more meaningful and fulfilling life. I will provide you with empirically-based tools to overcome obstacles that may seem hopeless and help you create positive change in your life.
Are you thinking about divorce after discovering your partner's infidelity or sexual addiction? Are you tired of having the same arguments with no resolution? Is trauma or crippling anxiety keeping you from the life you want? I help clients navigate these challenges to create healthier relationships, heal from trauma, and create a path forward that supports a more meaningful and fulfilling life. I will provide you with empirically-based tools to overcome obstacles that may seem hopeless and help you create positive change in your life.
(425) 434-5968 View (425) 434-5968
Photo of Dustin-Leigh Fowler, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Dustin-Leigh Fowler
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I am experienced working with children, adults, couples, and families. Many times, people who call me are in distress, having tried what feels like everything, and they often feel frustrated and overwhelmed by their situation. My goal is to help individuals identify patterns of dysfunction that create problems for them. I work within the framework of an individual’s gifts and challenges to develop a strong relationship that allows for open communication and honesty. My strengths-based approach allows individuals to feel they have a voice and builds upon the good that is already taking place within their life and relationships.
I am experienced working with children, adults, couples, and families. Many times, people who call me are in distress, having tried what feels like everything, and they often feel frustrated and overwhelmed by their situation. My goal is to help individuals identify patterns of dysfunction that create problems for them. I work within the framework of an individual’s gifts and challenges to develop a strong relationship that allows for open communication and honesty. My strengths-based approach allows individuals to feel they have a voice and builds upon the good that is already taking place within their life and relationships.
(253) 400-2711 View (253) 400-2711
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.