Grief Therapists in Eden Prairie, MN

Photo of HMG Therapy, LLC, Counselor in Eden Prairie, MN
HMG Therapy, LLC
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
My background includes working with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, complex trauma, and crisis intervention.
Life can feel very uncertain and stressful at times. Are you struggling with increased fears and anxieties? Whether you are experiencing painful emotions, challenging relationships, or significant life events, we can work together to explore and identify what you need to achieve your personal goals and improve your overall quality of life.
My background includes working with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, complex trauma, and crisis intervention.
Life can feel very uncertain and stressful at times. Are you struggling with increased fears and anxieties? Whether you are experiencing painful emotions, challenging relationships, or significant life events, we can work together to explore and identify what you need to achieve your personal goals and improve your overall quality of life.
(612) 230-0828 View (612) 230-0828
Photo of Amy Wilkerson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eden Prairie, MN
Amy Wilkerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55346
Understanding grief, loss, and trauma with all of the nuances of adoption and foster care, along with the military lifestyle is where my main focus aims to serve.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is better understand your own story. Working through your past allows you to better understand your patterns, beliefs, and strengths to optimize where you are headed. Too often in life, we experience events that silence us, making it hard to know where to turn. In my office I work hard to create and hold spaces for my clients that are rooted in compassion, empathy, and safety. No matter where you are in your healing journey, I believe everyone has the potential to find more peace and live closer to their authentic beings.
Understanding grief, loss, and trauma with all of the nuances of adoption and foster care, along with the military lifestyle is where my main focus aims to serve.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is better understand your own story. Working through your past allows you to better understand your patterns, beliefs, and strengths to optimize where you are headed. Too often in life, we experience events that silence us, making it hard to know where to turn. In my office I work hard to create and hold spaces for my clients that are rooted in compassion, empathy, and safety. No matter where you are in your healing journey, I believe everyone has the potential to find more peace and live closer to their authentic beings.
(520) 277-3172 View (520) 277-3172
Photo of Jade Erickson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eden Prairie, MN
Jade Erickson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55347
Waitlist for new clients
Jade loves working with people who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, fear around death and dying, and specifically specializes in supporting people who are moving through traumatic forms of grief. She will strive to help you heal trauma, integrate losses, amplify joy in moments of despair, and work to uncover ways to honor the life lived. Jade also enjoys working with deconstructing (and possibly reconstructing) faith or spirituality. Jade supports all religions, no religion, and spiritual-but-not-religious.
Jade loves working with people who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, fear around death and dying, and specifically specializes in supporting people who are moving through traumatic forms of grief. She will strive to help you heal trauma, integrate losses, amplify joy in moments of despair, and work to uncover ways to honor the life lived. Jade also enjoys working with deconstructing (and possibly reconstructing) faith or spirituality. Jade supports all religions, no religion, and spiritual-but-not-religious.
(612) 979-1877 View (612) 979-1877
Photo of Kayla Scott, Marriage & Family Therapist in Eden Prairie, MN
Kayla Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Eden Prairie, MN 55344  (Online Only)
I have experience working with children, teens, families, and couples regarding life transitions, anxiety, and mood disorders, grief/loss, and maternal mental health. While I mostly work with individuals 18+ now, I practice in a way that takes your relationships and their impact on you into account. I've seen people move through suffering, overcome challenges, gain clarity, and rediscover their authentic self and believe you can too. I work to empower as we explore and find what works best within your unique relationships, goals, and lifestyle. HOURS- Monday 12p-5p, Tuesday 9a-4p, Wednesday 9a-5p.
I have experience working with children, teens, families, and couples regarding life transitions, anxiety, and mood disorders, grief/loss, and maternal mental health. While I mostly work with individuals 18+ now, I practice in a way that takes your relationships and their impact on you into account. I've seen people move through suffering, overcome challenges, gain clarity, and rediscover their authentic self and believe you can too. I work to empower as we explore and find what works best within your unique relationships, goals, and lifestyle. HOURS- Monday 12p-5p, Tuesday 9a-4p, Wednesday 9a-5p.
(952) 260-0102 View (952) 260-0102
Photo of Janna (Schriber) Mason, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Eden Prairie, MN
Janna (Schriber) Mason
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Grief is ever-present within our lives. Whether it’s an abrupt shift in our daily routine, a noticeable difference within ourselves, or a transition of our career, we experience it. We feel it after a change in our relationship, the loss of a pet, or, a heartbreaking death of a loved one. All change results in loss of some sort, and that which accompanies it, is grief. Grief can leave us feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and scared. We feel exposed and vulnerable. We begin to question ourselves and the world we are in. Whatever your grief, know that I will honor it with attuned presence.
Grief is ever-present within our lives. Whether it’s an abrupt shift in our daily routine, a noticeable difference within ourselves, or a transition of our career, we experience it. We feel it after a change in our relationship, the loss of a pet, or, a heartbreaking death of a loved one. All change results in loss of some sort, and that which accompanies it, is grief. Grief can leave us feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and scared. We feel exposed and vulnerable. We begin to question ourselves and the world we are in. Whatever your grief, know that I will honor it with attuned presence.
(952) 260-2552 View (952) 260-2552
Photo of Rachel O'Connor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eden Prairie, MN
Rachel O'Connor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eden Prairie, MN 55346
I provide individual therapy for adolescents and adults who are experiencing the following: anxiety, depression, life stressors and transitions, grief and loss, trauma, and identity concerns.
I have firsthand experience with how nerve-wracking it can be to begin therapy, whether it is for the first time or with a new therapist. I prioritize creating a safe and welcoming environment for clients. I believe that the depth of healing that is possible through therapy makes it a risk worth taking, but the approach and temperament of the therapist is undeniably important. That is why I strive to provide each client with the individualized support they need to make the changes they want to make in their life. With the proper support and resources, I believe that every person can seek the healing they desire.
I provide individual therapy for adolescents and adults who are experiencing the following: anxiety, depression, life stressors and transitions, grief and loss, trauma, and identity concerns.
I have firsthand experience with how nerve-wracking it can be to begin therapy, whether it is for the first time or with a new therapist. I prioritize creating a safe and welcoming environment for clients. I believe that the depth of healing that is possible through therapy makes it a risk worth taking, but the approach and temperament of the therapist is undeniably important. That is why I strive to provide each client with the individualized support they need to make the changes they want to make in their life. With the proper support and resources, I believe that every person can seek the healing they desire.
(720) 458-0642 View (720) 458-0642
Photo of Kimberly Bundy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Eden Prairie, MN
Kimberly Bundy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
I specialize in trauma and grief and loss, including pet loss.
Feel disconnected from others or dissatisfied with life? Feel like the promises that were made have not been kept? Many people feel disconnected right now and are struggling with finding a healthy balance to find connection again. I can help you with those daily struggles as well as facing painful issues from the past. My co-therapist is a 125lb therapy dog named Anya; her job is to help in whatever way works best for you.
I specialize in trauma and grief and loss, including pet loss.
Feel disconnected from others or dissatisfied with life? Feel like the promises that were made have not been kept? Many people feel disconnected right now and are struggling with finding a healthy balance to find connection again. I can help you with those daily struggles as well as facing painful issues from the past. My co-therapist is a 125lb therapy dog named Anya; her job is to help in whatever way works best for you.
(952) 522-9884 View (952) 522-9884
Photo of Alejandra Aschittino-Rodriguez, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Eden Prairie, MN
Alejandra Aschittino-Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eden Prairie, MN 55346
I work with adults and teenagers who are experiencing life-phase transitions, substance and alcohol abuse, and grief and loss.
I believe personal agency is key to finding meaning in distressing scenarios and growing from them. I use both Existential and solution-oriented approaches when engaging with clients and provide individuals, couples, and families with tools for self-awareness and self-empowerment through a mixture of theoretical models tailored to the client’s strengths and needs. I work to help clients establish more adaptive patterns of thinking with humor, empathy, and respect. While I will explore root causes of issues, I emphasize the importance of personal growth and identifying personal strengths.
I work with adults and teenagers who are experiencing life-phase transitions, substance and alcohol abuse, and grief and loss.
I believe personal agency is key to finding meaning in distressing scenarios and growing from them. I use both Existential and solution-oriented approaches when engaging with clients and provide individuals, couples, and families with tools for self-awareness and self-empowerment through a mixture of theoretical models tailored to the client’s strengths and needs. I work to help clients establish more adaptive patterns of thinking with humor, empathy, and respect. While I will explore root causes of issues, I emphasize the importance of personal growth and identifying personal strengths.
(612) 416-1263 View (612) 416-1263
Photo of Karol Schneider, Marriage & Family Therapist in Eden Prairie, MN
Karol Schneider
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
For the last fourteen years my practice has been geared towards adults struggling with anxiety and panic, depression, relationship issues of all types, grief and loss, and past trauma. I also work a great deal with addiction and codependency in the family. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I see my job as helping people resolve these issues in collaborative, non-judgmental therapy sessions. I provide an environment where these problems can be explored and resolved. My approach is direct but respectful; giving clients practical skills and techniques that can change their lives.
For the last fourteen years my practice has been geared towards adults struggling with anxiety and panic, depression, relationship issues of all types, grief and loss, and past trauma. I also work a great deal with addiction and codependency in the family. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I see my job as helping people resolve these issues in collaborative, non-judgmental therapy sessions. I provide an environment where these problems can be explored and resolved. My approach is direct but respectful; giving clients practical skills and techniques that can change their lives.
(952) 210-3577 View (952) 210-3577
Photo of Michelle Finley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Eden Prairie, MN
Michelle Finley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, DMFTABD
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
I specialize in working with other therapists, relationships, trauma/PTSD, adoption, grief/loss, attachment, parenting, family of origin concerns, and life changes.
Have you lost someone or something that is important to you? Is life presenting you with changes that are difficult to navigate? Are relationships hard for you? Has your past created difficulties that you just can't seem to separate from? Do you feel overwhelmed by the pressure to raise perfect kids and meet the needs of everyone around you?  Does your family need help? Are you a helper or therapist and need your own support? I am here, to connect with you and help you feel better.
I specialize in working with other therapists, relationships, trauma/PTSD, adoption, grief/loss, attachment, parenting, family of origin concerns, and life changes.
Have you lost someone or something that is important to you? Is life presenting you with changes that are difficult to navigate? Are relationships hard for you? Has your past created difficulties that you just can't seem to separate from? Do you feel overwhelmed by the pressure to raise perfect kids and meet the needs of everyone around you?  Does your family need help? Are you a helper or therapist and need your own support? I am here, to connect with you and help you feel better.
(763) 600-1315 View (763) 600-1315
Photo of Andrew Garbers, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Eden Prairie, MN
Andrew Garbers
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADC
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
I also work with trauma, grief/loss and many other areas.
I work with most clients, however, my focus is on relationships. I believe everything we do and person we engage with is a relationship, whether it's an intimate partner, friend, sibling, family or your relationship to self. I want to work with you if you are willing to engage the therapy process. Therapy is challenging and happens mostly outside of the one hour session a week (at most). I will meet you where you are at if you commit to do the hard work on your end.
I also work with trauma, grief/loss and many other areas.
I work with most clients, however, my focus is on relationships. I believe everything we do and person we engage with is a relationship, whether it's an intimate partner, friend, sibling, family or your relationship to self. I want to work with you if you are willing to engage the therapy process. Therapy is challenging and happens mostly outside of the one hour session a week (at most). I will meet you where you are at if you commit to do the hard work on your end.
(651) 362-5708 View (651) 362-5708
Photo of Olivia I. Jewett, Marriage & Family Therapist in Eden Prairie, MN
Olivia I. Jewett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing individual therapy for adults as well as couples and families. My areas of focus are with past traumas, abuse, addictions, eating disorders, body image concerns, self-harming behaviors, abandonment, Bipolar Disorder, obsessive compulsive disorders, anxiety, and loss. My other areas of concentration are marriage counseling, the challenges of parenting, sibling conflicts, infidelity, and conflict resolution skills. I offer pre-marital counseling focusing on the transition into marriage, establishing effective communication skills, hearing/understanding partner perspective, assumptions made about partner's thoughts/experiences, and how the couple can approach challenges life may bring to their relationships.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing individual therapy for adults as well as couples and families. My areas of focus are with past traumas, abuse, addictions, eating disorders, body image concerns, self-harming behaviors, abandonment, Bipolar Disorder, obsessive compulsive disorders, anxiety, and loss. My other areas of concentration are marriage counseling, the challenges of parenting, sibling conflicts, infidelity, and conflict resolution skills. I offer pre-marital counseling focusing on the transition into marriage, establishing effective communication skills, hearing/understanding partner perspective, assumptions made about partner's thoughts/experiences, and how the couple can approach challenges life may bring to their relationships.
(612) 400-8267 View (612) 400-8267
Photo of Jerry Crimmins, Psychologist in Eden Prairie, MN
Jerry Crimmins
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Dr. Jerry Crimmins is a Psychologist in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2004. Dr. Crimmins has worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, problems with motivation, relationship issues, and parenting problems. His counseling style is direct, respectful, and incorporates some humor once you get to know each other. Dr. Crimmins believes in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. His approach is fundamentally cognitive-behavioral but will incorporate other techniques in order to tailor our dialogue and treatment to meet your unique and specific needs.
Dr. Jerry Crimmins is a Psychologist in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2004. Dr. Crimmins has worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, problems with motivation, relationship issues, and parenting problems. His counseling style is direct, respectful, and incorporates some humor once you get to know each other. Dr. Crimmins believes in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. His approach is fundamentally cognitive-behavioral but will incorporate other techniques in order to tailor our dialogue and treatment to meet your unique and specific needs.
(763) 347-2480 View (763) 347-2480
Photo of Dr. Sonal Markanda, Psychologist in Eden Prairie, MN
Dr. Sonal Markanda
Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
I'd be a good fit if you're motivated, curious, open, flexible in thought, committed to the therapy process, and willing to do hard work. I'll work hard, too. If your needs and goals are to feel calmer, have a more integrated sense of self, feel more secure and confident, to grow and expand your thought processes, to organize past life events, develop/increase spirituality, work towards independence, and promote holistic well-being through the use of evidenced-based techniques and theories, I'd be a good fit! I also love pets. I have 2 dogs & 2 cats. I have training and certification in pet loss and grief. I value all relationships.
I'd be a good fit if you're motivated, curious, open, flexible in thought, committed to the therapy process, and willing to do hard work. I'll work hard, too. If your needs and goals are to feel calmer, have a more integrated sense of self, feel more secure and confident, to grow and expand your thought processes, to organize past life events, develop/increase spirituality, work towards independence, and promote holistic well-being through the use of evidenced-based techniques and theories, I'd be a good fit! I also love pets. I have 2 dogs & 2 cats. I have training and certification in pet loss and grief. I value all relationships.
(612) 389-0779 View (612) 389-0779
Photo of Tamara Clement, Psychologist in Eden Prairie, MN
Tamara Clement
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Dr. Clement has more than 30 years of experience as a psychologist in an outpatient setting. She works with individuals from young adults through seniors, addressing a wide range of issues, including life transitions, stress, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, mood and anxiety disorders, and trauma. Her favorite mode of therapy is EMDR, an extensively researched and highly effective approach to helping people recover from trauma and other distressing life experiences, including PTSD, anxiety and depression. Dr. Clement counts it a privilege to walk with clients in the healing journey.
Dr. Clement has more than 30 years of experience as a psychologist in an outpatient setting. She works with individuals from young adults through seniors, addressing a wide range of issues, including life transitions, stress, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, mood and anxiety disorders, and trauma. Her favorite mode of therapy is EMDR, an extensively researched and highly effective approach to helping people recover from trauma and other distressing life experiences, including PTSD, anxiety and depression. Dr. Clement counts it a privilege to walk with clients in the healing journey.
(763) 373-5448 View (763) 373-5448
Photo of The Jonas Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Eden Prairie, MN
The Jonas Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSS, LMFT, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
The Jonas Center offers people of all backgrounds a safe place for healing. Our therapists work with individuals, couples and families. We specialize in helping clients who are dealing with relationship, communication or intimacy issues, depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, grief, loss, trauma or abuse.
The Jonas Center offers people of all backgrounds a safe place for healing. Our therapists work with individuals, couples and families. We specialize in helping clients who are dealing with relationship, communication or intimacy issues, depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, grief, loss, trauma or abuse.
(952) 955-9852 View (952) 955-9852
Photo of Deanna Herrmann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eden Prairie, MN
Deanna Herrmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eden Prairie, MN 55347  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals struggling with perinatal anxiety, depression, grief, and loss.
As a mother, you may often struggle to keep up with the demands of daily life, while trying to maintain a facade of happiness and contentment. However, the constant pressure and overwhelming anxiety can leave you feeling isolated and alone, with feelings of guilt and shame. But you don't have to suffer in silence anymore. You have taken the first step towards a brighter future by acknowledging the need for guidance and support to improve your mental health. You understand that taking care of yourself is crucial to take care of others. I am here to support you every step of the way towards a happier, healthier you.
I specialize in working with individuals struggling with perinatal anxiety, depression, grief, and loss.
As a mother, you may often struggle to keep up with the demands of daily life, while trying to maintain a facade of happiness and contentment. However, the constant pressure and overwhelming anxiety can leave you feeling isolated and alone, with feelings of guilt and shame. But you don't have to suffer in silence anymore. You have taken the first step towards a brighter future by acknowledging the need for guidance and support to improve your mental health. You understand that taking care of yourself is crucial to take care of others. I am here to support you every step of the way towards a happier, healthier you.
(469) 871-6367 View (469) 871-6367
Photo of Annie (Joanne) M Simmons, Marriage & Family Therapist in Eden Prairie, MN
Annie (Joanne) M Simmons
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55347
Are CLARITY, HOPE, and SATISFACTION missing in your life ? I specialize in how ON-GOING CONFLICT, GRIEF / LOSS, ILLNESS, and DIVERSITY issues can lead to chronic frustration.
Clients respond very positively to my style as a therapist --- informal, empathetic, challenging, encouraging, educational, and collaborative. Typical individual and couples clients include young adults, mid-age, and elders. My work with clients frequently blends individual and couples therapy. I specialize in using the DISCERNMENT COUNSELING framework with 'mixed agenda' couples and the ideas of John / Julie GOTTMAN when working with couples who are wanting to enhance their relationship and co--parenting quality.
Are CLARITY, HOPE, and SATISFACTION missing in your life ? I specialize in how ON-GOING CONFLICT, GRIEF / LOSS, ILLNESS, and DIVERSITY issues can lead to chronic frustration.
Clients respond very positively to my style as a therapist --- informal, empathetic, challenging, encouraging, educational, and collaborative. Typical individual and couples clients include young adults, mid-age, and elders. My work with clients frequently blends individual and couples therapy. I specialize in using the DISCERNMENT COUNSELING framework with 'mixed agenda' couples and the ideas of John / Julie GOTTMAN when working with couples who are wanting to enhance their relationship and co--parenting quality.
(651) 800-4559 View (651) 800-4559
Photo of Jill Magnuson, Psychologist in Eden Prairie, MN
Jill Magnuson
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
I am an experienced Licensed Psychologist with an extensive background providing counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. My primary specialities include depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, life transition, relationship issues, and grief and loss. My therapeutic approach is eclectic with a cognitive behavioral and DBT foundation. I am trained in EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy which I use to address a multitude of mental health symptoms in addition to trauma. I continue to be privileged to work with people who seek to improve the quality of their life and find peace, confidence and strength within themselves.
I am an experienced Licensed Psychologist with an extensive background providing counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. My primary specialities include depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, life transition, relationship issues, and grief and loss. My therapeutic approach is eclectic with a cognitive behavioral and DBT foundation. I am trained in EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy which I use to address a multitude of mental health symptoms in addition to trauma. I continue to be privileged to work with people who seek to improve the quality of their life and find peace, confidence and strength within themselves.
(952) 260-0350 View (952) 260-0350
Photo of Karen K Hasse, Psychologist in Eden Prairie, MN
Karen K Hasse
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
With the challenges we are currently facing, frustration, anxiety, grief or depression can be the result.
During this Coronavirus crisis, remote therapy is available by telephone or video conference for maximum safety. I can help you with any discomfort you feel about this. The Coronavirus has created many challenges for us. We are faced with news coverage, financial stress, doing our best to work from home while children are present, the strain of social distancing, or risking our safety at our jobs. Anxiety, discouragement, and sadness are becoming commonplace, with a fear of the unknown. Individual therapy for adults and adolescents, couple, and family therapy are available.
With the challenges we are currently facing, frustration, anxiety, grief or depression can be the result.
During this Coronavirus crisis, remote therapy is available by telephone or video conference for maximum safety. I can help you with any discomfort you feel about this. The Coronavirus has created many challenges for us. We are faced with news coverage, financial stress, doing our best to work from home while children are present, the strain of social distancing, or risking our safety at our jobs. Anxiety, discouragement, and sadness are becoming commonplace, with a fear of the unknown. Individual therapy for adults and adolescents, couple, and family therapy are available.
(952) 314-5427 View (952) 314-5427

See more therapy options for Eden Prairie

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.