Grief Therapists in La Palma, CA

Photo of Susan Watson, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Watson
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
La Palma, CA 90623  (Online Only)
Are you ready to explore positive options for your life? Life isn't easy and change is inevitable. We are offered continuous learning opportunities as we progress on our journey. It takes courage, strength, and awareness to identify and overcome barriers to self-acceptance and inner peace. Therapy is a useful tool to gain the self-awareness and insight necessary for healing and positive change. No matter what your goals are overcoming trauma/ loss; learning useful methods of communication; improving relationships; dealing with uncomfortable emotions; and more success and positive change can be achieved!
Are you ready to explore positive options for your life? Life isn't easy and change is inevitable. We are offered continuous learning opportunities as we progress on our journey. It takes courage, strength, and awareness to identify and overcome barriers to self-acceptance and inner peace. Therapy is a useful tool to gain the self-awareness and insight necessary for healing and positive change. No matter what your goals are overcoming trauma/ loss; learning useful methods of communication; improving relationships; dealing with uncomfortable emotions; and more success and positive change can be achieved!
(424) 699-3037 View (424) 699-3037
Photo of Dr. Karla Escoto, PsyD , MA, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Karla Escoto
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD , MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Palma, CA 90623
Abuse, DV), depression, grief and loss, anxiety, and various mental health challenges impact our ability to maintain meaning, happiness, stable relationships, and positive coping skills.
Hi, I am a licensed marriage and family Bilingual psychotherapist with more than ten years of clinical experience treating individuals and families. I also have a doctorate in psychology. Many individuals I work with have been to therapy before and have felt some relief but eventually reverted to old unhealthy behaviors. Through our work together, we will get to the root of the issues to allow for sustainable healing and growth, and you will notice an improvement in your mood, motivation, and relationships. Therapy can be intimidating and difficult to seek.
Abuse, DV), depression, grief and loss, anxiety, and various mental health challenges impact our ability to maintain meaning, happiness, stable relationships, and positive coping skills.
Hi, I am a licensed marriage and family Bilingual psychotherapist with more than ten years of clinical experience treating individuals and families. I also have a doctorate in psychology. Many individuals I work with have been to therapy before and have felt some relief but eventually reverted to old unhealthy behaviors. Through our work together, we will get to the root of the issues to allow for sustainable healing and growth, and you will notice an improvement in your mood, motivation, and relationships. Therapy can be intimidating and difficult to seek.
(323) 716-0735 View (323) 716-0735
Photo of Elizabeth Diaz - Serenity Counseling Center, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Serenity Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Palma, CA 90623
My treatment specialties include trauma, depression, grief & loss, anxiety, PTSD, general life stressors, parenting issues and many others.
I am interested in creating a safe space for my clients, working collaboratively so that they can reach their full potential as they discover their inner strengths that will allow them to achieve the best possible quality of life I have experience in working with Adults, Teens, Couples, and Parenting Issues. My training has led me to be certified in Incredible Years Kids and Incredible Years Toddler program which an Evidenced Based Program to aid kids with behavioral issues, communication, social skills, and self-esteem among other issues. I am Fluent in Spanish and my approach is through a Multicultural lens.
My treatment specialties include trauma, depression, grief & loss, anxiety, PTSD, general life stressors, parenting issues and many others.
I am interested in creating a safe space for my clients, working collaboratively so that they can reach their full potential as they discover their inner strengths that will allow them to achieve the best possible quality of life I have experience in working with Adults, Teens, Couples, and Parenting Issues. My training has led me to be certified in Incredible Years Kids and Incredible Years Toddler program which an Evidenced Based Program to aid kids with behavioral issues, communication, social skills, and self-esteem among other issues. I am Fluent in Spanish and my approach is through a Multicultural lens.
(657) 571-6641 View (657) 571-6641
Photo of Dr. Annie Hsueh, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Annie Hsueh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Palma, CA 90623  (Online Only)
You find yourself getting stuck in repetitive arguments with your partner, even when you are trying to talk about something seemingly small. These moments of disconnection leave you feeling misunderstood, hurt, frustrated, and alone. You know you two fell in love, but some days you just don’t feel like your partner understands you. You aren't sure about how to connect more with your partner. How do you reach them? You want things to be different, but you don't know how to get there. You feel at a loss. You want badly to stop having the same fights and to work on healing, truly healing.
You find yourself getting stuck in repetitive arguments with your partner, even when you are trying to talk about something seemingly small. These moments of disconnection leave you feeling misunderstood, hurt, frustrated, and alone. You know you two fell in love, but some days you just don’t feel like your partner understands you. You aren't sure about how to connect more with your partner. How do you reach them? You want things to be different, but you don't know how to get there. You feel at a loss. You want badly to stop having the same fights and to work on healing, truly healing.
(424) 571-2818 View (424) 571-2818
Photo of Helen Hyesung Ahn, MA, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Helen Hyesung Ahn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Palma, CA 90623
In life, people are sometimes feeling stuck, frustrated, or overwhelmed as a result of current life stressors or have been living with long-standing issues. I have often observed that many people don’t remember their inner resources or feel they never have any inner wisdom when they are in challenging situations. I believe that therapeutic process could help people remember their innate resources such as strengths, wisdom, positive emotions, etc.I will support people in improving their lives by gaining personal insights, making healthier choices in difficult times, and allowing for positive change to occur in their lives.
In life, people are sometimes feeling stuck, frustrated, or overwhelmed as a result of current life stressors or have been living with long-standing issues. I have often observed that many people don’t remember their inner resources or feel they never have any inner wisdom when they are in challenging situations. I believe that therapeutic process could help people remember their innate resources such as strengths, wisdom, positive emotions, etc.I will support people in improving their lives by gaining personal insights, making healthier choices in difficult times, and allowing for positive change to occur in their lives.
(657) 255-8526 View (657) 255-8526
Photo of Mary M. Scholten, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary M. Scholten
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Palma, CA 90623
If you've been struggling emotionally and relationally and find you just can't handle life on your own anymore, I am here to help you. Whether you're feeling depressed, anxious, angry, lonely, or overwhelmed, it doesn't have to be this way. Together we will work to improve the quality of your life. I've been trained in using How We Love - a program to help you identify your attachment/love style, childhood injuries, and how those wounds are affecting your current relationships.
If you've been struggling emotionally and relationally and find you just can't handle life on your own anymore, I am here to help you. Whether you're feeling depressed, anxious, angry, lonely, or overwhelmed, it doesn't have to be this way. Together we will work to improve the quality of your life. I've been trained in using How We Love - a program to help you identify your attachment/love style, childhood injuries, and how those wounds are affecting your current relationships.
(714) 676-8935 View (714) 676-8935
Photo of Dr. Alex Ballan, EdD, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Alex Ballan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
La Palma, CA 90623
We can try to identify how everyday losses affect you, explore and establish purpose that gets you out of bed in the morning.
“Sometimes, life seems like a deep-dark hole, but really it’s a tunnel, and if we walk together, we’ll reach one end or the other.” Fr. G. Boyle, Homeboy Industries. We live in challenging times; it may help to talk with someone to try and make sense of it all. I’ve experienced the positive effects of having a trained professional in my corner. My hope is to pay that forward and support you in reconnecting to your genuine strengths. I believe each person has the key to their own wellness and success. So ask yourself, if life could be different tomorrow, what would it look like?
We can try to identify how everyday losses affect you, explore and establish purpose that gets you out of bed in the morning.
“Sometimes, life seems like a deep-dark hole, but really it’s a tunnel, and if we walk together, we’ll reach one end or the other.” Fr. G. Boyle, Homeboy Industries. We live in challenging times; it may help to talk with someone to try and make sense of it all. I’ve experienced the positive effects of having a trained professional in my corner. My hope is to pay that forward and support you in reconnecting to your genuine strengths. I believe each person has the key to their own wellness and success. So ask yourself, if life could be different tomorrow, what would it look like?
(562) 379-6646 View (562) 379-6646
Photo of Faith Chin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Faith Chin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Palma, CA 90623
Utilizing a diverse range of therapeutic modalities, Faith Chin creates a safe and empathetic space where clients can explore and process their emotions, navigate through trauma, and build healthier relationships. Her therapeutic philosophy is rooted in the belief that every person possesses the innate capacity for change and resilience.
Utilizing a diverse range of therapeutic modalities, Faith Chin creates a safe and empathetic space where clients can explore and process their emotions, navigate through trauma, and build healthier relationships. Her therapeutic philosophy is rooted in the belief that every person possesses the innate capacity for change and resilience.
(657) 571-1440 View (657) 571-1440
Photo of Youngseoung Seo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Youngseoung Seo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Palma, CA 90623
Are you or a loved one facing the complexities of aging? Seeking support and guidance to navigate through life's transitions? As a seasoned therapist with a specialization in geriatric care, I am dedicated to advocating for the elderly, fostering their well-being, and enhancing their quality of life. I understand the unique challenges seniors face, from mental health concerns to social isolation. My expertise lies in conducting comprehensive assessments and providing personalized care plans. Let's embark on this journey together towards a fulfilling and empowered life. You are not alone.
Are you or a loved one facing the complexities of aging? Seeking support and guidance to navigate through life's transitions? As a seasoned therapist with a specialization in geriatric care, I am dedicated to advocating for the elderly, fostering their well-being, and enhancing their quality of life. I understand the unique challenges seniors face, from mental health concerns to social isolation. My expertise lies in conducting comprehensive assessments and providing personalized care plans. Let's embark on this journey together towards a fulfilling and empowered life. You are not alone.
(925) 291-9337 View (925) 291-9337

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Catherine Yee Schwartz, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catherine Yee Schwartz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90701  (Online Only)
What service areas do I offer: life changes, grief & loss, silver divorce, health concerns, anxiety, depression, narcissistic personality, trauma, empty nest, neurodivergent child, parenting, adult kids, retirement, biz owners, bi-faith, bi-racial families, blended families, military families, in-laws, long distance relations, open relationships.
Sometimes it's hard to find the right words to say or know what to even ask. The search for a therapist can be challenging too. You have arrived here for a reason. I understand it's personal. Where to begin can seem overwhelming. With over 20 years as a professional licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, this is my calling, my passion is to help you unpack it all. I will listen. Maybe this life journey is a new chapter for you. Maybe it's your relationship, family, work, health that is stressing you. We can discover your positive path - together. This is your time, to live a better life!
What service areas do I offer: life changes, grief & loss, silver divorce, health concerns, anxiety, depression, narcissistic personality, trauma, empty nest, neurodivergent child, parenting, adult kids, retirement, biz owners, bi-faith, bi-racial families, blended families, military families, in-laws, long distance relations, open relationships.
Sometimes it's hard to find the right words to say or know what to even ask. The search for a therapist can be challenging too. You have arrived here for a reason. I understand it's personal. Where to begin can seem overwhelming. With over 20 years as a professional licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, this is my calling, my passion is to help you unpack it all. I will listen. Maybe this life journey is a new chapter for you. Maybe it's your relationship, family, work, health that is stressing you. We can discover your positive path - together. This is your time, to live a better life!
(657) 239-3928 View (657) 239-3928
Photo of Kimber Del Valle, PsyD, Psychologist
Kimber Del Valle
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Cypress, CA 90630
In addition to Somatic Experience, I've received specialized training in treating grief, spiritual concerns, sports psychology and anger management.
I am a licensed psychologist conducting therapy and counseling. I specialize in working with adults. I have specialties in the areas of grief, traumas, depression and anxiety however have seen clients for a variety of issues. My primary approach to therapy is based on an insight-oriented relational model to treatment however, I supplement my work with Somatic Experiencing, a trauma treatment informed by the mind and body connection. My clinical work is informed by the understanding that a therapeutic relationship can help restructure one's internal emotional world and cognitive functioning, which is supported by attachment and neuropsychology research.
In addition to Somatic Experience, I've received specialized training in treating grief, spiritual concerns, sports psychology and anger management.
I am a licensed psychologist conducting therapy and counseling. I specialize in working with adults. I have specialties in the areas of grief, traumas, depression and anxiety however have seen clients for a variety of issues. My primary approach to therapy is based on an insight-oriented relational model to treatment however, I supplement my work with Somatic Experiencing, a trauma treatment informed by the mind and body connection. My clinical work is informed by the understanding that a therapeutic relationship can help restructure one's internal emotional world and cognitive functioning, which is supported by attachment and neuropsychology research.
(562) 368-8961 View (562) 368-8961
Photo of Angelica Rivas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angelica Rivas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buena Park, CA 90620
I have 7+ years working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, and adjustment disorders.
My name is Angelica Rivas. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I like to use a behavioral approach in therapy, focusing on both short-term and long-term goals to help those in need of change in their lives. I prefer to use either a humanistic or behavioral approach with an overall intent to help clients meet their goals. I have extensive experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I have 7+ years working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, and adjustment disorders.
My name is Angelica Rivas. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I like to use a behavioral approach in therapy, focusing on both short-term and long-term goals to help those in need of change in their lives. I prefer to use either a humanistic or behavioral approach with an overall intent to help clients meet their goals. I have extensive experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(657) 837-3802 View (657) 837-3802
Photo of Anna Stosich, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna Stosich
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Buena Park, CA 90620
I work with young to older adults with a variety of concerns such as depression, anxiety, relationship changes, life changes, trauma, eating disorders, and grief.
I am Anna Stosich, a highly passionate and licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). It is my mission to enable healing for everyone through therapy, everyone deserves to feel at peace, energetic, and whole. I provide an integrative approach for the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, and relational stressors. I work from a somatic perspective, which incorporates the wisdom of your body into the therapeutic process. I draw from somatic practices including hypnotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, and Mindfulness.
I work with young to older adults with a variety of concerns such as depression, anxiety, relationship changes, life changes, trauma, eating disorders, and grief.
I am Anna Stosich, a highly passionate and licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). It is my mission to enable healing for everyone through therapy, everyone deserves to feel at peace, energetic, and whole. I provide an integrative approach for the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, and relational stressors. I work from a somatic perspective, which incorporates the wisdom of your body into the therapeutic process. I draw from somatic practices including hypnotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, and Mindfulness.
(657) 837-2797 View (657) 837-2797
Photo of Maria Griffin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Hi, I'm Maria. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 17 years of experience working in individual and group psychotherapy sessions, state government programs, addressing anxiety, end-of-life care, grief recovery, depression, and a host of other acute outpatient concerns. Many of my clients strive to set goals that make thoughts of coping with anxiety, depression, grief, etc possible.
Hi, I'm Maria. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 17 years of experience working in individual and group psychotherapy sessions, state government programs, addressing anxiety, end-of-life care, grief recovery, depression, and a host of other acute outpatient concerns. Many of my clients strive to set goals that make thoughts of coping with anxiety, depression, grief, etc possible.
(657) 837-3070 View (657) 837-3070
Photo of Eliza McKenna, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eliza McKenna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buena Park, CA 90620
I treat: Mood, Anxiety, and Psychotic Disorders, PTSD, Trauma Recovery, Substance Use Disorders and Dual-Diagnosis, Alcoholism and Mental Illness in Families, Chronic Pain, Grief, and Stress Management.
Eliza McKenna, LCSW, based in California, from the east coast. I'm a mom and hobby gardener and artist. I approach my practice with Humanism and strive to co-create insight and transformation with clients. I've worked on helplines, in child protection, with the seriously mentally ill, and as a psychotherapist in psychiatric clinics. In addition to private practice, I help run an Employee Assistance Program, and manage a number of employee health programs. My approach to providing therapy moves through the four noble truths. We diagnose the suffering and identify its cause.
I treat: Mood, Anxiety, and Psychotic Disorders, PTSD, Trauma Recovery, Substance Use Disorders and Dual-Diagnosis, Alcoholism and Mental Illness in Families, Chronic Pain, Grief, and Stress Management.
Eliza McKenna, LCSW, based in California, from the east coast. I'm a mom and hobby gardener and artist. I approach my practice with Humanism and strive to co-create insight and transformation with clients. I've worked on helplines, in child protection, with the seriously mentally ill, and as a psychotherapist in psychiatric clinics. In addition to private practice, I help run an Employee Assistance Program, and manage a number of employee health programs. My approach to providing therapy moves through the four noble truths. We diagnose the suffering and identify its cause.
(424) 381-0911 View (424) 381-0911
Photo of Kelly Fisher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buena Park, CA 90620
Much of my work has focused on individuals walking through the hardships of grief and loss.
Hi, my name is Kelly Fisher and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues related to grief/ loss, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, and life transitions. Having experience working in both the hospice and hospital setting, I am acutely aware of the realities clients and families face as they endure serious/chronic illness, prognosis, anticipatory loss, and grief/ bereavement. It is my hope to help clients express their emotions, process their loss(es), and sensitively find resilience in their new normal.
Much of my work has focused on individuals walking through the hardships of grief and loss.
Hi, my name is Kelly Fisher and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues related to grief/ loss, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, and life transitions. Having experience working in both the hospice and hospital setting, I am acutely aware of the realities clients and families face as they endure serious/chronic illness, prognosis, anticipatory loss, and grief/ bereavement. It is my hope to help clients express their emotions, process their loss(es), and sensitively find resilience in their new normal.
(707) 475-8685 View (707) 475-8685
Photo of Natasha L Billups, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natasha L Billups
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90701  (Online Only)
I have a strong belief that we all desire to live well. When circumstances arise that threaten our ability to live well we must stop, refocus, and begin again. I would like to support you and/or your family through the process. I have a wealth of experience with individuals, children, and families. If you find that you have experienced a life changing event (marriage, birth, divorce, new/ending job, death) and would like support during the transition I can be of help. I am well versed in the treatment of depression, anxiety, grief/ loss, behavioral issues in children/adolescents, and family relational issues.
I have a strong belief that we all desire to live well. When circumstances arise that threaten our ability to live well we must stop, refocus, and begin again. I would like to support you and/or your family through the process. I have a wealth of experience with individuals, children, and families. If you find that you have experienced a life changing event (marriage, birth, divorce, new/ending job, death) and would like support during the transition I can be of help. I am well versed in the treatment of depression, anxiety, grief/ loss, behavioral issues in children/adolescents, and family relational issues.
(562) 414-5689 View (562) 414-5689
Photo of Mary M Read, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary M Read
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cypress, CA 90630
I specialize in the "big questions" that affect our whole lives -- who am I? What can I hope for? What is a good life? How do I get there from here? Whether the issue is identity, grief & loss, substance misuse, depression, anxiety, aging, surviving trauma, midlife adjustments or having more fulfilling relationships, I work with clients emphasizing their choice and responsiblity, reframing areas where they may feel stuck, ultimately accessing more freedom and empowerment. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups, and see children as young as 10 years old. I'll also work with you to get insurance reimbursement.
I specialize in the "big questions" that affect our whole lives -- who am I? What can I hope for? What is a good life? How do I get there from here? Whether the issue is identity, grief & loss, substance misuse, depression, anxiety, aging, surviving trauma, midlife adjustments or having more fulfilling relationships, I work with clients emphasizing their choice and responsiblity, reframing areas where they may feel stuck, ultimately accessing more freedom and empowerment. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups, and see children as young as 10 years old. I'll also work with you to get insurance reimbursement.
(562) 606-1566 View (562) 606-1566
Photo of Veronica Gomez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Gomez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90703
My name is Veronica Gomez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with adults (18+) struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem that may stem from grief and loss, life transitions, and more. I provide a safe and positive space for the patient's to feel empowered to be their authentic self. I specialize in working with adults by incorporating various treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal Therapy to guide patients find their strengths, community, and self.
My name is Veronica Gomez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with adults (18+) struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem that may stem from grief and loss, life transitions, and more. I provide a safe and positive space for the patient's to feel empowered to be their authentic self. I specialize in working with adults by incorporating various treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal Therapy to guide patients find their strengths, community, and self.
(657) 837-3875 View (657) 837-3875
Photo of Sally Schoellkopf, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sally Schoellkopf
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
So many people are struggling with anxiety, grief, depression, relationship difficulties, and parenting.
Welcome, my name is Sally Schoellkopf. I am a licensed Marriage, Family and Child Therapist (LMFT) with over 20 years of experience, and currently working with clients in California via telehealth. I am here to help you find greater well-being, self-acceptance and resolve the issues that are preventing you from living the full and positive life that you deserve. In my private practice and other settings, including schools, hospice, bereavement and agency centers, I have counseled adults, children, adolescents, families and groups to help them gain self-awareness, new insights and create positive change.
So many people are struggling with anxiety, grief, depression, relationship difficulties, and parenting.
Welcome, my name is Sally Schoellkopf. I am a licensed Marriage, Family and Child Therapist (LMFT) with over 20 years of experience, and currently working with clients in California via telehealth. I am here to help you find greater well-being, self-acceptance and resolve the issues that are preventing you from living the full and positive life that you deserve. In my private practice and other settings, including schools, hospice, bereavement and agency centers, I have counseled adults, children, adolescents, families and groups to help them gain self-awareness, new insights and create positive change.
(657) 571-3361 View (657) 571-3361

See more therapy options for La Palma

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.