Grief Therapists in Del Mar, CA
For 12 years I've supported clients through grief and relational wounds, including hospice-based bereavement care, blending depth-oriented and trauma-informed approaches.
My clients are people who may have many of the things society says should create a fulfilling life, yet behind polished exteriors they feel worn down - tired, anxious, or unsure how to break old relationship patterns that keep repeating. They often carry quiet self-doubt, people-pleasing, or a fear of not being enough. They want to feel grounded, understood, and connected in a way that feels safe and real. They come to therapy longing for clarity, steadiness, and healthier relationships, knowing deep down that they’re ready for healing and a more authentic way of being.
For 12 years I've supported clients through grief and relational wounds, including hospice-based bereavement care, blending depth-oriented and trauma-informed approaches.
My clients are people who may have many of the things society says should create a fulfilling life, yet behind polished exteriors they feel worn down - tired, anxious, or unsure how to break old relationship patterns that keep repeating. They often carry quiet self-doubt, people-pleasing, or a fear of not being enough. They want to feel grounded, understood, and connected in a way that feels safe and real. They come to therapy longing for clarity, steadiness, and healthier relationships, knowing deep down that they’re ready for healing and a more authentic way of being.
I work with adults who are struggling and need a space to be heard, understood and want to develop the skills to "hear" their inner voice and move through their lives in a grounded way that can honor their choices. Many of my clients experience emotional, psychological or physical stressors. I help them develop a sense of safety in their bodies, reclaim their voice, and learn to love and value themselves as their most authentic selves.
If you are looking for an AI free zone (no technology listening, no required diagnoses, no electronic chart), I can provide paper charts. Some insurance don't allow this, so this is cash pay.
I work with adults who are struggling and need a space to be heard, understood and want to develop the skills to "hear" their inner voice and move through their lives in a grounded way that can honor their choices. Many of my clients experience emotional, psychological or physical stressors. I help them develop a sense of safety in their bodies, reclaim their voice, and learn to love and value themselves as their most authentic selves.
If you are looking for an AI free zone (no technology listening, no required diagnoses, no electronic chart), I can provide paper charts. Some insurance don't allow this, so this is cash pay.
I am a strengths based, trauma focused therapist specializing in grief & loss, PTSD, and feeling stuck and overwhelmed by past negative experiences and beliefs. I work with clients ranging in age from adolescents to seniors utilizing EMDR and family systems therapy.
I am a strengths based, trauma focused therapist specializing in grief & loss, PTSD, and feeling stuck and overwhelmed by past negative experiences and beliefs. I work with clients ranging in age from adolescents to seniors utilizing EMDR and family systems therapy.
If you are facing loss, trauma, life transitions, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, I would be honored to support you.
I offer talk therapy, Brainspotting, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which is recognized as an effective form of treatment for trauma and other disturbing experiences. I am also a certified yoga instructor and blend elements of yoga and mindfulness-based approaches into my sessions as appropriate.
If you are facing loss, trauma, life transitions, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, I would be honored to support you.
I offer talk therapy, Brainspotting, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which is recognized as an effective form of treatment for trauma and other disturbing experiences. I am also a certified yoga instructor and blend elements of yoga and mindfulness-based approaches into my sessions as appropriate.
You’re looking for a different and real healing experience; whether it’s from stress, grief, trauma, or the loss of a beloved pet.
I specialize in Clinical Hypnotherapy, Grief Counseling & Breathwork. Helping clients heal from grief, trauma, and stress by releasing emotional blockages, reprogramming the subconscious, and restoring energetic balance. I also offer a 6-session Pet Loss Therapy program, providing action-based steps to navigate the unique grief of of losing a companion.
You’re looking for a different and real healing experience; whether it’s from stress, grief, trauma, or the loss of a beloved pet.
I specialize in Clinical Hypnotherapy, Grief Counseling & Breathwork. Helping clients heal from grief, trauma, and stress by releasing emotional blockages, reprogramming the subconscious, and restoring energetic balance. I also offer a 6-session Pet Loss Therapy program, providing action-based steps to navigate the unique grief of of losing a companion.
It’s been found that the most important factor in creating lasting change in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can process your emotions and begin transforming pain into growth. I take a client-centered, culturally sensitive approach, considering all aspects of who you are, mind, body, and spirit—while specifically focusing on trauma recovery.
I use research-backed methods, including DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR and art therapy, tailoring my approach to meet your unique needs. Additionally, I now offer
It’s been found that the most important factor in creating lasting change in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can process your emotions and begin transforming pain into growth. I take a client-centered, culturally sensitive approach, considering all aspects of who you are, mind, body, and spirit—while specifically focusing on trauma recovery.
I use research-backed methods, including DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR and art therapy, tailoring my approach to meet your unique needs. Additionally, I now offer
Sometimes it becomes challenging managing the ebb and flow of life and we become isolated, stressed and overwhelmed. Our past wounds always seem to sneak up on us when we least expect. Life transitions can be difficult in that they take much adjustment and effort. There is such a pressing need to invest in yourself and in the building of healthy relationships. You need to spark the parts of yourself that harnests vitality and make life worth living. Investing in your mental health can reveal solutions as well as provide you skills that will last a lifetime. Whatever your need we can work together to find solutions.
Sometimes it becomes challenging managing the ebb and flow of life and we become isolated, stressed and overwhelmed. Our past wounds always seem to sneak up on us when we least expect. Life transitions can be difficult in that they take much adjustment and effort. There is such a pressing need to invest in yourself and in the building of healthy relationships. You need to spark the parts of yourself that harnests vitality and make life worth living. Investing in your mental health can reveal solutions as well as provide you skills that will last a lifetime. Whatever your need we can work together to find solutions.
Dr. Rosita Cortizo, born and raised in Panama City, Panama, Central America, is a high risk, multicultural, bilingual prenatal and perinatal Clinical Psychologist working with female adults and children. She earned a Master of Arts in Psychology with specialty in Chemical Dependency in San Diego, California. She is EMDRIA certified, an Approved EMDR Consultant, trained in Hypnosis, Sensory Motor Psychotherapy, Equine Assisted Therapy Certified, and was the 2021 ISSTD President. Dr. Cortizo provides trauma-informed prenatal care and psychotherapy tailored to the unique needs of the client.
Dr. Rosita Cortizo, born and raised in Panama City, Panama, Central America, is a high risk, multicultural, bilingual prenatal and perinatal Clinical Psychologist working with female adults and children. She earned a Master of Arts in Psychology with specialty in Chemical Dependency in San Diego, California. She is EMDRIA certified, an Approved EMDR Consultant, trained in Hypnosis, Sensory Motor Psychotherapy, Equine Assisted Therapy Certified, and was the 2021 ISSTD President. Dr. Cortizo provides trauma-informed prenatal care and psychotherapy tailored to the unique needs of the client.
I specialize in children, adolescents, grief, trauma, marital/relationship issues, divorce mediation, step-parenting, dating, depression, anxiety, life reinvention coaching, infidelity, empty nest, ,life crisis, and sexual assault issues.
I treat each individual in a unique, creative, solution-focused directive approach utilizing Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and motivational techniques to name a few. I design my treatment plans and utilize tools for each unique situation and personality my clients present.
I specialize in children, adolescents, grief, trauma, marital/relationship issues, divorce mediation, step-parenting, dating, depression, anxiety, life reinvention coaching, infidelity, empty nest, ,life crisis, and sexual assault issues.
I treat each individual in a unique, creative, solution-focused directive approach utilizing Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and motivational techniques to name a few. I design my treatment plans and utilize tools for each unique situation and personality my clients present.
My expertise includes leadership challenges, relationship issues, chronic stress, perfectionism, grief recovery, personal empowerment and parenting.
My approach is customized to your unique goals & challenges. Employing a relational perspective, I utilize both short term targeted and in-depth approaches. Resolving underlying issues that fuel ongoing challenges helps you consolidate patterns of growth. This approach is focused on helping you fulfill your personal, professional & relationship potential.
My expertise includes leadership challenges, relationship issues, chronic stress, perfectionism, grief recovery, personal empowerment and parenting.
My approach is customized to your unique goals & challenges. Employing a relational perspective, I utilize both short term targeted and in-depth approaches. Resolving underlying issues that fuel ongoing challenges helps you consolidate patterns of growth. This approach is focused on helping you fulfill your personal, professional & relationship potential.
I specialize in supporting individuals navigating through challenging life transitions, such as coping with the loss of a loved one, divorce, or job changes.
If you arrived here, it's likely because you've experienced a loss. Whether it is the death of a loved one, the end of a friendship, a divorce, or a career change, grief is a natural response to these events. My mission is to provide support and guidance as you process your grief and transition. You don't have to walk this journey alone. I am here to be your coach and companion, offering a safe and compassionate space for you to express and explore your emotions.
I specialize in supporting individuals navigating through challenging life transitions, such as coping with the loss of a loved one, divorce, or job changes.
If you arrived here, it's likely because you've experienced a loss. Whether it is the death of a loved one, the end of a friendship, a divorce, or a career change, grief is a natural response to these events. My mission is to provide support and guidance as you process your grief and transition. You don't have to walk this journey alone. I am here to be your coach and companion, offering a safe and compassionate space for you to express and explore your emotions.
Together we address anxiety, burnout, grief, and identity shifts, creating space for clarity, steadiness, and a deeper connection to yourself.
My clients are often in the middle of a life transition that has quietly reshaped how they see themselves and their role in the world. Many are caregivers or the steady one for others, while feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or disconnected inside. In therapy, we make sense of what feels tangled, process what’s been carried for too long, and create space for you to reconnect with yourself. From there, we begin to move forward with more clarity, steadiness, and a deeper sense of self-trust.
Together we address anxiety, burnout, grief, and identity shifts, creating space for clarity, steadiness, and a deeper connection to yourself.
My clients are often in the middle of a life transition that has quietly reshaped how they see themselves and their role in the world. Many are caregivers or the steady one for others, while feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or disconnected inside. In therapy, we make sense of what feels tangled, process what’s been carried for too long, and create space for you to reconnect with yourself. From there, we begin to move forward with more clarity, steadiness, and a deeper sense of self-trust.
Whether you’re navigating a major life transition, grief, relationship changes, or simply a sense that something isn’t right, therapy can be a place to slow down, breathe, and begin to make sense of what you’re feeling.
In our work together, I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can process what you’re going through at your own pace. I help you untangle anxious thoughts, understand patterns, and reconnect with what matters most to you. You’ll gain tools to manage anxiety and stress, while also having space to explore deeper meaning, healing, and growth.
Whether you’re navigating a major life transition, grief, relationship changes, or simply a sense that something isn’t right, therapy can be a place to slow down, breathe, and begin to make sense of what you’re feeling.
In our work together, I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can process what you’re going through at your own pace. I help you untangle anxious thoughts, understand patterns, and reconnect with what matters most to you. You’ll gain tools to manage anxiety and stress, while also having space to explore deeper meaning, healing, and growth.
I have 10+ years of experience and training using this approach to treat anxiety, panic, PTSD and depression and the underlying issues that contribute to these such as trauma, grief and anger.
Perhaps you are dealing with painful events outside of your control, your emotions are becoming unmanageable, or you are experiencing a new symptom that is sudden and overwhelming. It is very human to want to "feel normal" when dealing with these, but sometimes how we attempt to do this hurts us more. This could include the different ways we avoid our emotions, attempt to “be perfect" or negatively judge ourselves. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) I will help you identify and change ways of thinking and behaving that are impacting your mental health.
I have 10+ years of experience and training using this approach to treat anxiety, panic, PTSD and depression and the underlying issues that contribute to these such as trauma, grief and anger.
Perhaps you are dealing with painful events outside of your control, your emotions are becoming unmanageable, or you are experiencing a new symptom that is sudden and overwhelming. It is very human to want to "feel normal" when dealing with these, but sometimes how we attempt to do this hurts us more. This could include the different ways we avoid our emotions, attempt to “be perfect" or negatively judge ourselves. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) I will help you identify and change ways of thinking and behaving that are impacting your mental health.
Debbie Bryk is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Masters in Clinical Counseling. Debbie provides therapy to help clients with addiction and trauma, co-occurring disorders, depression, anxiety, social anxiety, schizophrenia, TTM, ADHD, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. Debbie also has experience working with active-duty military and spouses. She offers adult individual sessions, marriage and family sessions, and group therapy. In her spare time, Debbie enjoys running, hiking, walking dogs, reading, science and psychology research, and sailing.
Debbie Bryk is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Masters in Clinical Counseling. Debbie provides therapy to help clients with addiction and trauma, co-occurring disorders, depression, anxiety, social anxiety, schizophrenia, TTM, ADHD, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. Debbie also has experience working with active-duty military and spouses. She offers adult individual sessions, marriage and family sessions, and group therapy. In her spare time, Debbie enjoys running, hiking, walking dogs, reading, science and psychology research, and sailing.
If you struggle with how your past continues to impact who you are today, you are ready and willing to take concrete steps to process it; let's talk. Your past wounds do not have to control how you are experiencing your life today. I want to learn what happened to you and go beyond a diagnosis that may have been given to you. I specialize in treating complex trauma/PTSD and dissociation.
My ideal clients are motivated and actively engaged in their own healing journey. I truly believe we are the 'placebo factor' in this process, and this is also backed by science, and a therapist is a witness to this process.
If you struggle with how your past continues to impact who you are today, you are ready and willing to take concrete steps to process it; let's talk. Your past wounds do not have to control how you are experiencing your life today. I want to learn what happened to you and go beyond a diagnosis that may have been given to you. I specialize in treating complex trauma/PTSD and dissociation.
My ideal clients are motivated and actively engaged in their own healing journey. I truly believe we are the 'placebo factor' in this process, and this is also backed by science, and a therapist is a witness to this process.
Grief, overwhelm, fear, and anger are just a few of the many emotions that may arise on this difficult and uncertain path.
I work with adults navigating every stage of the cancer experience—from the initial shock of diagnosis, through the uncertainty of treatment, to the complex realities of survivorship. This includes grieving one’s former self, adjusting to a new normal, and coping with the ongoing fear of recurrence.
Grief, overwhelm, fear, and anger are just a few of the many emotions that may arise on this difficult and uncertain path.
I work with adults navigating every stage of the cancer experience—from the initial shock of diagnosis, through the uncertainty of treatment, to the complex realities of survivorship. This includes grieving one’s former self, adjusting to a new normal, and coping with the ongoing fear of recurrence.
I also have a strong passion for supporting women and new parents through all stages of the perinatal experience—including fertility challenges, pregnancy, postpartum, and loss.
Stress and anxiety can make it difficult to fully engage in the life you want to live. Starting therapy can feel uncomfortable at first, but being open to the process can lead to meaningful growth and lasting change. My goal is to offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel supported as we begin this journey together. Through collaboration, we’ll work to overcome challenges and create a life filled with purpose and connection. I’m here to help you reconnect with your authentic self and move toward the life you envision. People from all backgrounds, cultures, and identities are welcome.
I also have a strong passion for supporting women and new parents through all stages of the perinatal experience—including fertility challenges, pregnancy, postpartum, and loss.
Stress and anxiety can make it difficult to fully engage in the life you want to live. Starting therapy can feel uncomfortable at first, but being open to the process can lead to meaningful growth and lasting change. My goal is to offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel supported as we begin this journey together. Through collaboration, we’ll work to overcome challenges and create a life filled with purpose and connection. I’m here to help you reconnect with your authentic self and move toward the life you envision. People from all backgrounds, cultures, and identities are welcome.
Kristin Kwiatkowski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
Waitlist for new clients
She is passionate about working with those who strive to overcome life’s obstacles such as; Loss, Fear, Relationship Struggles, Isolation, self Doubt and Change.
Kristin's approach is collaborative and draws from theory (such as TF-CBT, DBT, and ST) that will increase resilience in the social, physical, and psychological domains. Kristin believes that all people have the ability to overcome obstacles and find personal strength/purpose after the struggle.
She is passionate about working with those who strive to overcome life’s obstacles such as; Loss, Fear, Relationship Struggles, Isolation, self Doubt and Change.
Kristin's approach is collaborative and draws from theory (such as TF-CBT, DBT, and ST) that will increase resilience in the social, physical, and psychological domains. Kristin believes that all people have the ability to overcome obstacles and find personal strength/purpose after the struggle.
I also support those navigating complex life transitions, including career changes, loss, or shifts in identity, while helping to strengthen personal and professional
I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges—both with others and within themselves. Our first phone or video consultation is a supportive space to explore your concerns and ensure we’re a good fit. Rooted in a psychoanalytic approach, my work goes beyond symptom relief to uncover deeper patterns, including unconscious influences shaping your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Together, we’ll build insight, resilience, and meaningful, lasting change to help you move toward a more fulfilling and authentic life.
I also support those navigating complex life transitions, including career changes, loss, or shifts in identity, while helping to strengthen personal and professional
I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges—both with others and within themselves. Our first phone or video consultation is a supportive space to explore your concerns and ensure we’re a good fit. Rooted in a psychoanalytic approach, my work goes beyond symptom relief to uncover deeper patterns, including unconscious influences shaping your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Together, we’ll build insight, resilience, and meaningful, lasting change to help you move toward a more fulfilling and authentic life.
See more therapy options for Del Mar
Nearby Grief Therapists Searches for Del Mar
- Cardiff
- Cardiff By The Sea
- Encinitas
- Escondido
- La Jolla
- Poway
- Rancho Santa Fe
- San Diego
- San Marcos
- Santee
- Solana Beach
- Vista
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.