Photo of Kim Manogaran, Counselor in Federal Way, WA
Kim Manogaran
Counselor, MS, MA, LMHC, ACHT
Verified Verified
Federal Way, WA 98003
What do you do when you find yourself struggling with problems? Do you let those issues, such as, relationships, weight, substance abuse, behaviors, emotions, thoughts, energy or finance victimize you? If this problem doesn't make you feel happy and yet there is a part of you that fears overcoming the problem, I believe there might be some healing work we can do together. I can help you access your subconscious mind and help you achieve this goal of conscious freedom.
What do you do when you find yourself struggling with problems? Do you let those issues, such as, relationships, weight, substance abuse, behaviors, emotions, thoughts, energy or finance victimize you? If this problem doesn't make you feel happy and yet there is a part of you that fears overcoming the problem, I believe there might be some healing work we can do together. I can help you access your subconscious mind and help you achieve this goal of conscious freedom.
(425) 310-4213 View (425) 310-4213
Photo of Lizette Arroyo-Dillard, Pre-Licensed Professional in Federal Way, WA
Lizette Arroyo-Dillard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98063
I wish to serve people of color and other marginalized groups who have experienced chronic oppression and injustices. I would love to work with individuals, couples and families who are ready to step into their power and reclaim their voice. I wish to serve those who are in need of healing and need assistance processing grief, loss, frustration and exhaustion from life's trials and adversities. Being a person of color poses many challenges in this country and seeking help from professionals who look or talk nothing 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 have experienced chronic oppression and injustices. I would love to work with individuals, couples and families who are ready to step into their power and reclaim their voice. I wish to serve those who are in need of healing and need assistance processing grief, loss, frustration and exhaustion from life's trials and adversities. Being a person of color poses many challenges in this country and seeking help from professionals who look or talk nothing like you makes it far more difficult. I see you and I'm here for you.
(206) 483-0434 View (206) 483-0434
Photo of Ashley McGirt Counseling Services LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Federal Way, WA
Ashley McGirt Counseling Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98003
Not accepting new clients
Have you been stressed from the current state of the world, covid, exacerbated racial trauma? Are you experiencing microagressions at work? Have you been in a funk that you just can't get out of? Have you experienced a recent loss? Or are you just looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation? If so you have found the right place. Perhaps old coping mechanisms aren't as effective and/or you seek a different unbiased perspective. Whatever the reason I would love to help guide you thru the path of self-discovery, awareness, and well-being. I can assist you in overcoming the challenges you are currently facing.
Have you been stressed from the current state of the world, covid, exacerbated racial trauma? Are you experiencing microagressions at work? Have you been in a funk that you just can't get out of? Have you experienced a recent loss? Or are you just looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation? If so you have found the right place. Perhaps old coping mechanisms aren't as effective and/or you seek a different unbiased perspective. Whatever the reason I would love to help guide you thru the path of self-discovery, awareness, and well-being. I can assist you in overcoming the challenges you are currently facing.
(253) 951-9990 View (253) 951-9990
Photo of Patricia Eslava Vessey in Federal Way, WA
Patricia Eslava Vessey
CHT, BA
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98003  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with unhealthy habits and lack of motivation? Is pain and trauma from the past interfering with your life today? Are you struggling with anxiety, fears, shame, or depression and nothing has helped? Do you just want to feel worthy, confident, productive, empowered, and successful? If you are ready to heal your past, love yourself, and gain control of your thoughts, feelings, and behavior, I can help. Even though I don't accept insurance, you'll discover quicker, more effective, and longer-lasting results with the services I provide with fewer sessions Contact me and let's talk, so you can begin feeling better now.
Are you struggling with unhealthy habits and lack of motivation? Is pain and trauma from the past interfering with your life today? Are you struggling with anxiety, fears, shame, or depression and nothing has helped? Do you just want to feel worthy, confident, productive, empowered, and successful? If you are ready to heal your past, love yourself, and gain control of your thoughts, feelings, and behavior, I can help. Even though I don't accept insurance, you'll discover quicker, more effective, and longer-lasting results with the services I provide with fewer sessions Contact me and let's talk, so you can begin feeling better now.
(206) 900-8511 View (206) 900-8511

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tianna Morrison, Counselor in Federal Way, WA
Tianna Morrison
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98443  (Online Only)
Navigating the delicate balance between the life you envision and the reality you inhabit? I work with clients who are genuinely ready to put in the effort to cultivate the life they want, offering bold and honest support. We all face moments of feeling stuck, whether due to past traumas, life circumstances, or relationships. However, I firmly believe that everyone has the potential to shape their lives in alignment with their values, goals, and passions; often we just don't know where to start. That's where I come in—I'm here to begin this journey with you, learning the tools, confidence, and emotional resilience to thrive.
Navigating the delicate balance between the life you envision and the reality you inhabit? I work with clients who are genuinely ready to put in the effort to cultivate the life they want, offering bold and honest support. We all face moments of feeling stuck, whether due to past traumas, life circumstances, or relationships. However, I firmly believe that everyone has the potential to shape their lives in alignment with their values, goals, and passions; often we just don't know where to start. That's where I come in—I'm here to begin this journey with you, learning the tools, confidence, and emotional resilience to thrive.
(253) 465-2884 View (253) 465-2884
Photo of Claire Hipkens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Federal Way, WA
Claire Hipkens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98401  (Online Only)
I'm open to a broad client base but my predominant experience is with first gen college students, pro athletes & their family members. I ran the mental health services for UW athletics and am currently the consulting clinician for the Seattle Mariners and the NHL. I work best with driven people experiencing a big change. Perhaps, despite your best efforts, things aren’t working out as you’d hoped. Or perhaps you’ve gotten all you wanted and it doesn’t satisfy the way you thought it might. Though I often work with athletes I am not a Sports Psych. In fact, I don’t even follow sports! I’m here for the rest of your life and identity.
I'm open to a broad client base but my predominant experience is with first gen college students, pro athletes & their family members. I ran the mental health services for UW athletics and am currently the consulting clinician for the Seattle Mariners and the NHL. I work best with driven people experiencing a big change. Perhaps, despite your best efforts, things aren’t working out as you’d hoped. Or perhaps you’ve gotten all you wanted and it doesn’t satisfy the way you thought it might. Though I often work with athletes I am not a Sports Psych. In fact, I don’t even follow sports! I’m here for the rest of your life and identity.
(206) 752-2461 View (206) 752-2461
Photo of Regina Y Yeh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Federal Way, WA
Regina Y Yeh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Auburn, WA 98001  (Online Only)
I aim to provide a safe, non-judgmental space, empathetic/active listening as a compassionate presence and witness to see you, hear you, and meet you where you are in your human condition. My hope is to inspire your inner compassionate healer to go through your current circumstance and increase sense of peace, meaning and purpose. As an Asian American woman, I have a personal understanding of how to successfully navigate multicultural systems, especially those of Eastern/Western combined backgrounds. A rich full life experience as a classical musician/artist before mid-life, helps inform my service with added empathetic capacity
I aim to provide a safe, non-judgmental space, empathetic/active listening as a compassionate presence and witness to see you, hear you, and meet you where you are in your human condition. My hope is to inspire your inner compassionate healer to go through your current circumstance and increase sense of peace, meaning and purpose. As an Asian American woman, I have a personal understanding of how to successfully navigate multicultural systems, especially those of Eastern/Western combined backgrounds. A rich full life experience as a classical musician/artist before mid-life, helps inform my service with added empathetic capacity
(206) 208-7114 View (206) 208-7114
Photo of Wendy Tate dba Excel Counseling, Counselor in Federal Way, WA
Wendy Tate dba Excel Counseling
Counselor, NCC, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sumner, WA 98390
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I'm Wendy and I provide counseling to children, adolescents, adults, and Seniors. I use a strength based integrative approach that sees each person as unique. I pull from a variety of models including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness, Humanistic, Sports, and Positive Psychology. I work with many challenges individuals face addressing emotional, behavioral, and social needs; such as anxiety, depression, domestic violence, attachment disorders, ADHD, and more. I want to help you become empowered by further discovering your inner strength, beauty, purpose, and passion.
Hi, I'm Wendy and I provide counseling to children, adolescents, adults, and Seniors. I use a strength based integrative approach that sees each person as unique. I pull from a variety of models including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness, Humanistic, Sports, and Positive Psychology. I work with many challenges individuals face addressing emotional, behavioral, and social needs; such as anxiety, depression, domestic violence, attachment disorders, ADHD, and more. I want to help you become empowered by further discovering your inner strength, beauty, purpose, and passion.
(253) 237-7861 View (253) 237-7861
Photo of Rye Gottesman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Federal Way, WA
Rye Gottesman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98403
I offer psychoanalysis/psychoanalytic psychotherapy, which is a treatment that considers how your unconscious thoughts and feelings contribute to suffering. I meet with individuals from one to four times a week. Increased session frequency can provide a deeper understanding of your experience and uncover long standing underlying issues that may previously have been unreachable. I work with patients who are struggling with interpersonal and romantic relationship issues of all constellations, depression, anxiety, overwhelming feelings, self harm, extensive cumulative or acute trauma, issues related to family of origin and parenting.
I offer psychoanalysis/psychoanalytic psychotherapy, which is a treatment that considers how your unconscious thoughts and feelings contribute to suffering. I meet with individuals from one to four times a week. Increased session frequency can provide a deeper understanding of your experience and uncover long standing underlying issues that may previously have been unreachable. I work with patients who are struggling with interpersonal and romantic relationship issues of all constellations, depression, anxiety, overwhelming feelings, self harm, extensive cumulative or acute trauma, issues related to family of origin and parenting.
(253) 461-0588 View (253) 461-0588
Photo of Mariah Rojas, Counselor in Federal Way, WA
Mariah Rojas
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98401  (Online Only)
If you seeking therapy for the first time, are a person of color, or identify with the LGBTQ+ community then I would love to work with you! If you are grappling with systemic injustices as a minority, an activist, or you are just ready to explore your own identities then please feel free to reach out. I appreciate working with clients who would like to explore their culture, intergenerational trauma, anxiety, life transitions, and relationships.
If you seeking therapy for the first time, are a person of color, or identify with the LGBTQ+ community then I would love to work with you! If you are grappling with systemic injustices as a minority, an activist, or you are just ready to explore your own identities then please feel free to reach out. I appreciate working with clients who would like to explore their culture, intergenerational trauma, anxiety, life transitions, and relationships.
(206) 759-7716 View (206) 759-7716
Photo of Dylan Tizon, Counselor in Federal Way, WA
Dylan Tizon
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98188  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Someone casually asked, “How are you?” when you were out running errands. You're tired of this empty question and a part of you wanted to tell the truth. Honestly, you're f-cking exhausted. Struggling to juggle your grief/anger about the current state of the world, the demands of work, your relationships, and self-care... while also trying to heal from trauma and break toxic generational cycles. It's a LOT. Instead, you answered, “I’m good. You?" This is your life now; pretending everything's fine while, deep down, you know you've got parts of yourself you still don't understand and negative patterns you're ready to leave behind.
Someone casually asked, “How are you?” when you were out running errands. You're tired of this empty question and a part of you wanted to tell the truth. Honestly, you're f-cking exhausted. Struggling to juggle your grief/anger about the current state of the world, the demands of work, your relationships, and self-care... while also trying to heal from trauma and break toxic generational cycles. It's a LOT. Instead, you answered, “I’m good. You?" This is your life now; pretending everything's fine while, deep down, you know you've got parts of yourself you still don't understand and negative patterns you're ready to leave behind.
(206) 678-0889 View (206) 678-0889
Photo of Kim Butler, Counselor in Federal Way, WA
Kim Butler
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98406
I am a person-centered therapist accepting new clients. I aim to provide a collaborative safe space for clients to process at their own pace. I welcome couples, adult, and adolescent clients who are seeking support in deepening their understanding of emotions, mental processes, and behaviors, as well as those wanting help navigating through difficult life adjustments, painful pasts, stress management, coping strategies, relationship struggles, and mind-body health and wellness. I am passionate about honoring diversity and providing therapy from a multicultural and global perspective.
I am a person-centered therapist accepting new clients. I aim to provide a collaborative safe space for clients to process at their own pace. I welcome couples, adult, and adolescent clients who are seeking support in deepening their understanding of emotions, mental processes, and behaviors, as well as those wanting help navigating through difficult life adjustments, painful pasts, stress management, coping strategies, relationship struggles, and mind-body health and wellness. I am passionate about honoring diversity and providing therapy from a multicultural and global perspective.
(253) 338-8760 View (253) 338-8760
Photo of Connor Hartley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Federal Way, WA
Connor Hartley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98422  (Online Only)
I'm Connor, the head athletics mental health clinician at Washington State University. I work with athletes and others on their general mental health and sport psych performance issues. On the performance side, I treat performance anxiety, lack of confidence, burnout, and more. On the clinical side, I work with people experiencing depression, anxiety, difficulty with stress management, big life adjustments, grief, hoarding, and more. Regardless of the model, I always provide a warm, positive listening ear with a strong desire to help.
I'm Connor, the head athletics mental health clinician at Washington State University. I work with athletes and others on their general mental health and sport psych performance issues. On the performance side, I treat performance anxiety, lack of confidence, burnout, and more. On the clinical side, I work with people experiencing depression, anxiety, difficulty with stress management, big life adjustments, grief, hoarding, and more. Regardless of the model, I always provide a warm, positive listening ear with a strong desire to help.
(206) 594-5166 View (206) 594-5166
Photo of Sarah Fletcher, Counselor in Federal Way, WA
Sarah Fletcher
Counselor, LMHCA, CN
Verified Verified
Des Moines, WA 98198  (Online Only)
Are you tired of diet culture ruling your food choices and body image? I collaborate with clients on rebuilding safe relationships with their bodies. I am a weight-neutral, Health At Every Size (HAES), and Intuitive Eating provider that specializes in Binge Eating Disorder and Orthorexia. I also enjoy supporting women with anxiety and chronic health conditions. As a holistic therapist grounded in feminist and systems theories, I identify and treat underlying concerns rather than masking symptoms. I aim to create a courageous space for you to explore and reconnect with your mind, body, and spirit.
Are you tired of diet culture ruling your food choices and body image? I collaborate with clients on rebuilding safe relationships with their bodies. I am a weight-neutral, Health At Every Size (HAES), and Intuitive Eating provider that specializes in Binge Eating Disorder and Orthorexia. I also enjoy supporting women with anxiety and chronic health conditions. As a holistic therapist grounded in feminist and systems theories, I identify and treat underlying concerns rather than masking symptoms. I aim to create a courageous space for you to explore and reconnect with your mind, body, and spirit.
(253) 242-8417 View (253) 242-8417
Photo of Tammy M Ferguson, Counselor in Federal Way, WA
Tammy M Ferguson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402
Hello! My name is Tammy Ferguson and I have been a psychotherapist for over twenty years. I am passionate about helping people heal and grow. I believe when we are given the proper "container" or safe space, we are more likely to be able to access our inner knowing that can potentially lead to deep healing. I like to work with individuals who are wanting help navigating relationship issues, life transitions, grief, and/or trauma. In addition, I work with people who are dealing with spiritual issues such as religious trauma, deconstruction of faith, deconversion an/or spiritual abuse.
Hello! My name is Tammy Ferguson and I have been a psychotherapist for over twenty years. I am passionate about helping people heal and grow. I believe when we are given the proper "container" or safe space, we are more likely to be able to access our inner knowing that can potentially lead to deep healing. I like to work with individuals who are wanting help navigating relationship issues, life transitions, grief, and/or trauma. In addition, I work with people who are dealing with spiritual issues such as religious trauma, deconstruction of faith, deconversion an/or spiritual abuse.
(253) 364-1709 View (253) 364-1709
Photo of Collective Healing Counseling, Counselor in Federal Way, WA
Collective Healing Counseling
Counselor, LICSW
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402  (Online Only)
You deserve a life of self-love, compassion, and healing. I specialize in working with people experiencing major life changes (new career, new family configuration, losing a loved one, romantic relationship ending or beginning, new migration to the US), depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and adjustment issues. I often serve BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, plus), refugee, and immigrant communities and young adults.
You deserve a life of self-love, compassion, and healing. I specialize in working with people experiencing major life changes (new career, new family configuration, losing a loved one, romantic relationship ending or beginning, new migration to the US), depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and adjustment issues. I often serve BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, plus), refugee, and immigrant communities and young adults.
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Photo of Amanda Leibovitz, Counselor in Federal Way, WA
Amanda Leibovitz
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC, CMPC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma; who are feeling stuck and want freedom from old or unhelpful patterns of thinking, feeling, and doing; or who have difficulty coping with grief and loss, social situations, or major life transitions.
We all have the capacity to heal, grow, and change but often feel stuck, trapped, or frozen in place. I understand the importance of a safe, collaborative environment and meet each client with dignity, compassion, and a deep respect for your lived experience. You are unique, and the path to your goals should be, too! Using holistic and evidence-based approaches, I draw from mindfulness, EMDR therapy, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to assist you in creating a plan specific to your needs and values. Most importantly, we will work together to equip you with the insight and skills needed to make meaningful changes that last.
I specialize in working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma; who are feeling stuck and want freedom from old or unhelpful patterns of thinking, feeling, and doing; or who have difficulty coping with grief and loss, social situations, or major life transitions.
We all have the capacity to heal, grow, and change but often feel stuck, trapped, or frozen in place. I understand the importance of a safe, collaborative environment and meet each client with dignity, compassion, and a deep respect for your lived experience. You are unique, and the path to your goals should be, too! Using holistic and evidence-based approaches, I draw from mindfulness, EMDR therapy, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to assist you in creating a plan specific to your needs and values. Most importantly, we will work together to equip you with the insight and skills needed to make meaningful changes that last.
(360) 685-7909 View (360) 685-7909
Photo of Jessie Schooley, Counselor in Federal Way, WA
Jessie Schooley
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98405  (Online Only)
Despite our efforts to be present in our daily life, remnants of our past and stress in our day to day can keep us from being fully able to do so. I will work collaboratively with you, valuing your life experiences and input, to achieve a life with an increased sense of satisfaction. I approach therapy from a holistic, integrative, and humanistic perspective seeking to honor each individual story for its uniqueness. My practice specializes in counseling for adults of all backgrounds seeking relief from past trauma or other life altering experiences, as well as a range of other emotional and relational concerns.
Despite our efforts to be present in our daily life, remnants of our past and stress in our day to day can keep us from being fully able to do so. I will work collaboratively with you, valuing your life experiences and input, to achieve a life with an increased sense of satisfaction. I approach therapy from a holistic, integrative, and humanistic perspective seeking to honor each individual story for its uniqueness. My practice specializes in counseling for adults of all backgrounds seeking relief from past trauma or other life altering experiences, as well as a range of other emotional and relational concerns.
(253) 262-0081 View (253) 262-0081
Photo of Russell Alfaro in Federal Way, WA
Russell Alfaro
CHT
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98405
First, I believe it is my duty to be able to actively listen to my client, obtain a good understanding of where they are and where they want to go. Together, we will move you and/or your team or organization in the desired direction to reach your goals. As a young man growing up in North Chicago, I quickly learned that life is full of rewards and upsets, if I allowed it to happen. At 3 months old, I was abandoned by my mother, left inside of a garbage can in an alley waiting to die. However, life had other plans for me. A passerby heard my faint cries and pulled me from the garbage can. Later, I was adopted but went on to experience years of physical and emotional abuse by my adopted mother. At the age of 12, I ran away from home and was placed in foster care. I was adopted again, but I experienced more mental and physical abuse. I dropped out of the 9th grade and began running away again. At the age of 16, the authorities declared me an emancipated teenager. With a story like mine, you would probably think there was no hope for finding happiness or for finding quality of life. However, I have learned to use my negative experiences as a testimony to reach out and help others.
First, I believe it is my duty to be able to actively listen to my client, obtain a good understanding of where they are and where they want to go. Together, we will move you and/or your team or organization in the desired direction to reach your goals. As a young man growing up in North Chicago, I quickly learned that life is full of rewards and upsets, if I allowed it to happen. At 3 months old, I was abandoned by my mother, left inside of a garbage can in an alley waiting to die. However, life had other plans for me. A passerby heard my faint cries and pulled me from the garbage can. Later, I was adopted but went on to experience years of physical and emotional abuse by my adopted mother. At the age of 12, I ran away from home and was placed in foster care. I was adopted again, but I experienced more mental and physical abuse. I dropped out of the 9th grade and began running away again. At the age of 16, the authorities declared me an emancipated teenager. With a story like mine, you would probably think there was no hope for finding happiness or for finding quality of life. However, I have learned to use my negative experiences as a testimony to reach out and help others.
(253) 780-6061 View (253) 780-6061
Photo of Joseph Velazquez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Federal Way, WA
Joseph Velazquez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98422  (Online Only)
What is the goal of your marriage or relationship? Relationships are vital to becoming a whole person. At times, connecting with your spouse may feel magical, but every relationship goes through tough seasons. I understand how overwhelming it can feel when distance and resentment is the only thing growing between you. At times, it may feel like the hurt you are experiencing is not worth the effort. Maybe your relationship is still strong, but can stand a bit of tweaking to recapture the zest it once had. Whatever the case, there is always hope!
What is the goal of your marriage or relationship? Relationships are vital to becoming a whole person. At times, connecting with your spouse may feel magical, but every relationship goes through tough seasons. I understand how overwhelming it can feel when distance and resentment is the only thing growing between you. At times, it may feel like the hurt you are experiencing is not worth the effort. Maybe your relationship is still strong, but can stand a bit of tweaking to recapture the zest it once had. Whatever the case, there is always hope!
(206) 350-3636 View (206) 350-3636

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.