Photo of Briana Barrera, Pre-Licensed Professional in Long Beach, CA
Briana Barrera
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
(310) 807-2734 View (310) 807-2734
Photo of Icinda Siqueira-Darwin, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Icinda Siqueira-Darwin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
If you are near the Southern area of Los Angeles County, you may want to consider psychotherapy or counseling in Long Beach. I work evening hours, as well as day time, and have experience with most mental health needs. I work in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have extensive experience with problems in living using Evidence Based Therapy models and Mindfulness with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, as well as major mental illness including schizophrenia, , and other thought disorders. I work with family problems , including sexual dysfunction. Performing psychological assessments are offered when necessary to set new goals.
If you are near the Southern area of Los Angeles County, you may want to consider psychotherapy or counseling in Long Beach. I work evening hours, as well as day time, and have experience with most mental health needs. I work in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have extensive experience with problems in living using Evidence Based Therapy models and Mindfulness with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, as well as major mental illness including schizophrenia, , and other thought disorders. I work with family problems , including sexual dysfunction. Performing psychological assessments are offered when necessary to set new goals.
(562) 526-0592 View (562) 526-0592
Photo of Icinda Siqueira-Darwin, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Icinda Siqueira-Darwin
Psychologist, PhD,
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
My usual clients are young adults, under 45 years age,(I do see children and elders), experiencing mood disorders such as depression, or anxiety. Substance abuse issues are frequently involved, or alcohol abuse. There are always relationship issues with others involved as well. The Goals of Therapy include feeling happier, calmer, more at peace, to reducing substance abuse and alcohol abuse. They want to learn how to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
My usual clients are young adults, under 45 years age,(I do see children and elders), experiencing mood disorders such as depression, or anxiety. Substance abuse issues are frequently involved, or alcohol abuse. There are always relationship issues with others involved as well. The Goals of Therapy include feeling happier, calmer, more at peace, to reducing substance abuse and alcohol abuse. They want to learn how to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
(562) 303-5525 View (562) 303-5525
Photo of Pacific Therapy Group, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Pacific Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Pacific Pain & Wellness Group treats mental health and pain conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Our mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, we construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Pacific Pain & Wellness Group treats mental health and pain conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Our mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, we construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
(310) 868-2264 View (310) 868-2264

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Counseling Adults, Children & Couples, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Counseling Adults, Children & Couples
Psychologist, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
(310) 421-2863 View (310) 421-2863

Online Therapists

Photo of Professor Asher W. Allan in Long Beach, CA
Professor Asher W. Allan
CCHt
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Quitting Smoking, Weight Loss, Anxiety, Relationships, Sports, Career & Life Coaching, etc.
People often see me when they have tried everything. Imagine what you could achieve if you got straight to the point. While different therapists may be suited to different clients, my high success rate is due to 15 years teaching college level psychology and my exceptional training in hypnotherapy by arguably some of the world's best. Over the years I have helped hundreds of people realize the success they desire. My technique allows you to see immediate results and requires minimal time. There's so much to gain.
Quitting Smoking, Weight Loss, Anxiety, Relationships, Sports, Career & Life Coaching, etc.
People often see me when they have tried everything. Imagine what you could achieve if you got straight to the point. While different therapists may be suited to different clients, my high success rate is due to 15 years teaching college level psychology and my exceptional training in hypnotherapy by arguably some of the world's best. Over the years I have helped hundreds of people realize the success they desire. My technique allows you to see immediate results and requires minimal time. There's so much to gain.
(619) 536-0580 View (619) 536-0580
Photo of Paula Ratter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Paula Ratter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD, RN
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92054
Waitlist for new clients
grief/loss, & communication issues.
I don't have an ideal client. I want to met people where they are at. If you've never had therapy before, it’s important to be aware we don’t start talking about the hard stuff. It can take 2-3 sessions for someone to feel comfortable enough to tell another person what they are struggling with. Therapists cannot read minds, but have studied human patterns of thoughts, feelings & actions. No one can truly know the exact consequences a person has experienced in their life. Regardless of the reason why someone is seeking therapy, there is no judgment, no criticism…just acceptance. People can heal & grow in this type of environment.
grief/loss, & communication issues.
I don't have an ideal client. I want to met people where they are at. If you've never had therapy before, it’s important to be aware we don’t start talking about the hard stuff. It can take 2-3 sessions for someone to feel comfortable enough to tell another person what they are struggling with. Therapists cannot read minds, but have studied human patterns of thoughts, feelings & actions. No one can truly know the exact consequences a person has experienced in their life. Regardless of the reason why someone is seeking therapy, there is no judgment, no criticism…just acceptance. People can heal & grow in this type of environment.
(442) 275-8529 View (442) 275-8529
Photo of Kristin Whelan, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Kristin Whelan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Whelan is an experienced Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about establishing a strong alliance with her patients and providing excellence in care. She provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. Whelan specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders, chronic pain, sleep/eating disorders, substance use, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. She provides individualized, evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT),
Dr. Whelan is an experienced Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about establishing a strong alliance with her patients and providing excellence in care. She provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. Whelan specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders, chronic pain, sleep/eating disorders, substance use, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. She provides individualized, evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT),
(619) 738-2306 View (619) 738-2306
Photo of Ayleen Bryan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Ayleen Bryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
I have extensive training and experience in grief counseling, counseling teenagers, marriage counseling, and domestic violence.
Ayleen Bryan Bilingual LMFT. We all have issues we deal with on a daily basis, and therapy is about addressing those issues in a positive, effective manner. I provide the highest level of professional care in a warm, inviting, supportive and nonjudgmental environment. I help people of all ages, and work in many different modalities tailoring the treatment to the needs of each patient. I work with individuals, couples and families to assist in skill building and to promote healthy everyday living. I specialize in managing individuals' issues, couples counseling, working with children and families.
I have extensive training and experience in grief counseling, counseling teenagers, marriage counseling, and domestic violence.
Ayleen Bryan Bilingual LMFT. We all have issues we deal with on a daily basis, and therapy is about addressing those issues in a positive, effective manner. I provide the highest level of professional care in a warm, inviting, supportive and nonjudgmental environment. I help people of all ages, and work in many different modalities tailoring the treatment to the needs of each patient. I work with individuals, couples and families to assist in skill building and to promote healthy everyday living. I specialize in managing individuals' issues, couples counseling, working with children and families.
(909) 500-4561 View (909) 500-4561
Photo of Open Mind Health , Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Open Mind Health
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, isolation, relationship/family issues? At Open Mind Health, we get to the “root cause” of what’s actually leading to your emotional challenges, while treating the resulting issues and developing lasting solutions to help you feel optimistic and hopeful. With ease-of-access to our advanced telehealth platform or in-person visits, our expert psychiatrists and therapists offer highly individualized care wherever you are and whenever you need it. Our therapists and life coaches are compassionate and forward-thinkers. Call us today at 855-550-6063 to get started!
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, isolation, relationship/family issues? At Open Mind Health, we get to the “root cause” of what’s actually leading to your emotional challenges, while treating the resulting issues and developing lasting solutions to help you feel optimistic and hopeful. With ease-of-access to our advanced telehealth platform or in-person visits, our expert psychiatrists and therapists offer highly individualized care wherever you are and whenever you need it. Our therapists and life coaches are compassionate and forward-thinkers. Call us today at 855-550-6063 to get started!
(619) 279-5464 View (619) 279-5464
Photo of Holly Pearlman, Counselor in Long Beach, CA
Holly Pearlman
Counselor, LCPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91401  (Online Only)
My client base is comprised of: Survivors of traumatic events including childhood abuse, divorce, death, abusive relationships, scapegoating, toxic family members, and family estrangement.
I specialize in helping individuals and families heal from traumatic and stressful experiences, including adults abused as children, family relationships, narcissistic abuse, hoarding disorder, and family estrangement. You may not know what to expect from therapy, but you know you need to make some changes in your life so you can move forward. Stress, anxiety, and traumatic experiences are highly prevalent in our lives, and sometimes people need help and support in dealing with difficult/stressful situations. I am a trauma therapist specializing in family relationships that involve conflict, abuse, and a cycle of dysfunction.
My client base is comprised of: Survivors of traumatic events including childhood abuse, divorce, death, abusive relationships, scapegoating, toxic family members, and family estrangement.
I specialize in helping individuals and families heal from traumatic and stressful experiences, including adults abused as children, family relationships, narcissistic abuse, hoarding disorder, and family estrangement. You may not know what to expect from therapy, but you know you need to make some changes in your life so you can move forward. Stress, anxiety, and traumatic experiences are highly prevalent in our lives, and sometimes people need help and support in dealing with difficult/stressful situations. I am a trauma therapist specializing in family relationships that involve conflict, abuse, and a cycle of dysfunction.
(818) 650-3372 View (818) 650-3372
Photo of Peggy Harden-Haig Marriage Family Therapist Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Peggy Harden-Haig Marriage Family Therapist Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91381
Depression envolves a loss of hope, and I help you to understand the formula to find that hope again.
I believe in offering my patients a confidental non judgemental approach to psychotherapy in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. I can help you with your couples or family problems, your teen and children issues. I also deal with blended family difficulties with my background from an inpatient hospital experience, I am here to offer my specialities in Panic Disorder, Post Trumatic stress disorder, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and Depression. When dealing with the disorders listed above I believe in taking an investigated approach of the source of the problem as well as teaching relaxation and positive thinking to help the patient gain control.
Depression envolves a loss of hope, and I help you to understand the formula to find that hope again.
I believe in offering my patients a confidental non judgemental approach to psychotherapy in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. I can help you with your couples or family problems, your teen and children issues. I also deal with blended family difficulties with my background from an inpatient hospital experience, I am here to offer my specialities in Panic Disorder, Post Trumatic stress disorder, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and Depression. When dealing with the disorders listed above I believe in taking an investigated approach of the source of the problem as well as teaching relaxation and positive thinking to help the patient gain control.
(661) 903-8669 View (661) 903-8669
Photo of Alia Harlan Kaneaiakala, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Alia Harlan Kaneaiakala
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92694  (Online Only)
I am an Attachment based therapist well versed with severe levels of trauma, anxiety and depression due to family systems, addiction, adoption or other struggles. I have over 20 years experience as a dancer and dance studio owner from which I draw upon for a creative, integrative approach in therapy and fresh approach to understanding my clients. I am also fortunate enough to work collaborately with another therapist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners to provide wraparound services for clients all in our beautiful office space. I believe in exploring all avenues and taking innovative approaches in therapy to aid the client in healing and personal growth.
I am an Attachment based therapist well versed with severe levels of trauma, anxiety and depression due to family systems, addiction, adoption or other struggles. I have over 20 years experience as a dancer and dance studio owner from which I draw upon for a creative, integrative approach in therapy and fresh approach to understanding my clients. I am also fortunate enough to work collaborately with another therapist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners to provide wraparound services for clients all in our beautiful office space. I believe in exploring all avenues and taking innovative approaches in therapy to aid the client in healing and personal growth.
(949) 273-2912 View (949) 273-2912
Photo of Advanced Psychological Associates & Wellness Cen, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Advanced Psychological Associates & Wellness Cen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
Advanced Psychological Associates & Wellness Center is public transportation and handicapped accessible. We also understand and work with all types of stresses and anxieties. We work with child-adolescent and divorce complications. Hypnosis may be used to help stop addictions and undesirable behaviors. Our practice style is goal oriented using cognitive behavioral skills, hypnosis, and biofeedback to decrease problematic symptoms and behaviors, enhance and improve all types of relationships, and/or change underlying dysfunctional beliefs, while promoting permanent change. We offer complimentary care such as at home sleep apnea testing, biofeedback, neuro feedback, acupuncture, therapeutic body massage, facials, and waxing.
Advanced Psychological Associates & Wellness Center is public transportation and handicapped accessible. We also understand and work with all types of stresses and anxieties. We work with child-adolescent and divorce complications. Hypnosis may be used to help stop addictions and undesirable behaviors. Our practice style is goal oriented using cognitive behavioral skills, hypnosis, and biofeedback to decrease problematic symptoms and behaviors, enhance and improve all types of relationships, and/or change underlying dysfunctional beliefs, while promoting permanent change. We offer complimentary care such as at home sleep apnea testing, biofeedback, neuro feedback, acupuncture, therapeutic body massage, facials, and waxing.
(909) 543-1313 View (909) 543-1313
Photo of Advanced Psychological Associates & Wellness Ctr, Psychological Associate in Long Beach, CA
Advanced Psychological Associates & Wellness Ctr
Psychological Associate, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
We understand and work with all types of stresses and anxieties. We work with child-adolescent and divorce complications. Hypnosis may be used to help stop addictions and undesirable behaviors. Our practice style is goal oriented using cognitive behavioral skills, hypnosis, and biofeedback to decrease problematic symptoms and behaviors, enhance and improve all types of relationships, and/or change underlying dysfunctional beliefs, while promoting permanent change. We offer complimentary care such as at home sleep apnea testing, biofeedback, neuro feedback, acupuncture, therapeutic body massage, facials, and waxing.
We understand and work with all types of stresses and anxieties. We work with child-adolescent and divorce complications. Hypnosis may be used to help stop addictions and undesirable behaviors. Our practice style is goal oriented using cognitive behavioral skills, hypnosis, and biofeedback to decrease problematic symptoms and behaviors, enhance and improve all types of relationships, and/or change underlying dysfunctional beliefs, while promoting permanent change. We offer complimentary care such as at home sleep apnea testing, biofeedback, neuro feedback, acupuncture, therapeutic body massage, facials, and waxing.
(951) 261-8941 View (951) 261-8941
Photo of Brain Wellness Institute, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Brain Wellness Institute
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in neuropsychological evaluation, cognitive rehabilitation, and psychotherapy. I obtained my PhD Clinical Psychology from Loma Linda University and completed my fellowship at UCLA, pre-doctoral internship at Vanderbilt University, and Bachelor's degree from USC. I also received clinical training at the West Los Angeles VA Healthcare System, UCLA's Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, and the Loma Linda University Behavioral Health Institute.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in neuropsychological evaluation, cognitive rehabilitation, and psychotherapy. I obtained my PhD Clinical Psychology from Loma Linda University and completed my fellowship at UCLA, pre-doctoral internship at Vanderbilt University, and Bachelor's degree from USC. I also received clinical training at the West Los Angeles VA Healthcare System, UCLA's Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, and the Loma Linda University Behavioral Health Institute.
(949) 835-4495 View (949) 835-4495
Photo of Casey J. Simon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Casey J. Simon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Waitlist for new clients
When it comes to mental illness, treatment and outlook can feel daunting. My therapeutic approach is developed on an individual basis with an emphasis on reshaping personality organization in order to create long-lasting change. I truly enjoy assisting my patients in defeating their symptoms and regaining control of their lives. I have experience working with an array of individuals, ranging from young children to adults suffering from a multitude of mental health issues. Aside from my private practice, I work as a group therapist in an intensive outpatient program with individuals just released from emergency psychiatric care.
When it comes to mental illness, treatment and outlook can feel daunting. My therapeutic approach is developed on an individual basis with an emphasis on reshaping personality organization in order to create long-lasting change. I truly enjoy assisting my patients in defeating their symptoms and regaining control of their lives. I have experience working with an array of individuals, ranging from young children to adults suffering from a multitude of mental health issues. Aside from my private practice, I work as a group therapist in an intensive outpatient program with individuals just released from emergency psychiatric care.
(805) 716-6072 View (805) 716-6072
Nick Barneclo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Camarillo, CA 93010
I have been in private practice for over 20 years. I enjoy working with children, families, and adults in helping empowerment to overcome difficult periods in life. While I do have occasional openings for therapy, I specialize in psychological testing and understanding the "big picture" to provide diagnosis and direction for treatment. I can assist in evaluations for learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Neuropsychological deficits, developmental delays, behavior disorders, sexual disorders, Forensic (Competency, Psychosexual risk), school evaluations, Spanish-speaking evals, and more.
I have been in private practice for over 20 years. I enjoy working with children, families, and adults in helping empowerment to overcome difficult periods in life. While I do have occasional openings for therapy, I specialize in psychological testing and understanding the "big picture" to provide diagnosis and direction for treatment. I can assist in evaluations for learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Neuropsychological deficits, developmental delays, behavior disorders, sexual disorders, Forensic (Competency, Psychosexual risk), school evaluations, Spanish-speaking evals, and more.
(310) 919-0119 View (310) 919-0119
Photo of Orange County Health Psychologists, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Orange County Health Psychologists
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
I'm the founder of Orange County Health Psychologists; a group practice of 30+ providers with offices in Irvine, Newport Beach, and Orange. We offer individual, couples, and family therapy along with testing and assessment services. If I'm not available, our Admin staff is wonderful in matching people to the right provider! I hope you'll call today and let them know what you're looking for and how we can help. Both In-person and telehealth sessions are available. You can also see our website for a complete list of services at www.ochealthpsych.com.
I'm the founder of Orange County Health Psychologists; a group practice of 30+ providers with offices in Irvine, Newport Beach, and Orange. We offer individual, couples, and family therapy along with testing and assessment services. If I'm not available, our Admin staff is wonderful in matching people to the right provider! I hope you'll call today and let them know what you're looking for and how we can help. Both In-person and telehealth sessions are available. You can also see our website for a complete list of services at www.ochealthpsych.com.
(949) 446-1600 View (949) 446-1600
Photo of Center For Behavior Medicine, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Center For Behavior Medicine
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90605
At Center For Behavior Medicine patients receive the benefits of a holistic medical health practice bringing together both Psychiatric and Psychological practitioners into one unified center. At Center For Behavior Medicine we cultivate a well rounded,multi-cultural staff of clinicians, who as a unit offer a variety of perspectives, backgrounds, and philosophies for treatment. The result of this diverse collective, is a patient experience that is tailored to a specific level of comfort, treatment, and preference, all leading to a more effective psychological outcome and experience. Please visit website cbehaviormedicine.com
At Center For Behavior Medicine patients receive the benefits of a holistic medical health practice bringing together both Psychiatric and Psychological practitioners into one unified center. At Center For Behavior Medicine we cultivate a well rounded,multi-cultural staff of clinicians, who as a unit offer a variety of perspectives, backgrounds, and philosophies for treatment. The result of this diverse collective, is a patient experience that is tailored to a specific level of comfort, treatment, and preference, all leading to a more effective psychological outcome and experience. Please visit website cbehaviormedicine.com
(562) 206-1065 View (562) 206-1065
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.