Photo of Janelle De Veyra, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Janelle De Veyra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
In addition, I specialize in intimacy concerns, grief/abandonment, identity issues, and life transitions.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
In addition, I specialize in intimacy concerns, grief/abandonment, identity issues, and life transitions.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
(562) 362-4373 View (562) 362-4373
Photo of Carmen Shelbrack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Carmen Shelbrack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
I am here as a safe and inviting collaborator, let’s work together to address life difficulties nonjudgmentally. My role is to assist you in your process, supporting you in navigating your experiences and empowering you to apply the insights gained in therapy to your life. I am passionate about wellness and plan to join you with genuine curiosity and address any difficulties with mental health symptoms, shame and guilt, phases of life, relationships, grief, sense of self, disconnection, decision-making, anxiety, depression, and more.
I am here as a safe and inviting collaborator, let’s work together to address life difficulties nonjudgmentally. My role is to assist you in your process, supporting you in navigating your experiences and empowering you to apply the insights gained in therapy to your life. I am passionate about wellness and plan to join you with genuine curiosity and address any difficulties with mental health symptoms, shame and guilt, phases of life, relationships, grief, sense of self, disconnection, decision-making, anxiety, depression, and more.
(424) 788-5610 View (424) 788-5610
Photo of Kali Riley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Kali Riley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
Kali Riley is a Licensed Psychotherapist who obtained her Bachelor's of Social Work and Master's of Social Work at the University of Southern Indiana. Kali specializes in adolescents and adults with trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and grief. Kali is a Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP) and Certified Grief Informed Professional (CGP).
Kali Riley is a Licensed Psychotherapist who obtained her Bachelor's of Social Work and Master's of Social Work at the University of Southern Indiana. Kali specializes in adolescents and adults with trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and grief. Kali is a Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP) and Certified Grief Informed Professional (CGP).
(424) 353-4221 View (424) 353-4221
Photo of Justine Gordon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
(562) 294-4242 View (562) 294-4242
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(833) 918-2676 View (833) 918-2676
Photo of Liana Huang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Liana Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I have had the privilege to work with individuals with generational trauma, grief, ADHD, and relational/familial issues.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
I have had the privilege to work with individuals with generational trauma, grief, ADHD, and relational/familial issues.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
(562) 268-1452 View (562) 268-1452
Photo of Sandy L. Kaufmann, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Sandy L. Kaufmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAS
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, and specialize in the field of addiction. Over 35 continuous years working with drug, alcohol, sex, and love addiction. Trained in Emotional Transformation Therapy, "ETT" (ETT Addiction Certified) my clients receive rapid removal of symptoms and addictive cravings in many cases. With this exciting new cutting edge therapy, people are removing distressing symptoms that they have unsuccessfully attempted to remove for many years, in only minutes to a few sessions. I also use Gestalt Therapy for healing and teach my clients tools to use at home. I am also trained in EMDR since the early 90's.
Treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, and specialize in the field of addiction. Over 35 continuous years working with drug, alcohol, sex, and love addiction. Trained in Emotional Transformation Therapy, "ETT" (ETT Addiction Certified) my clients receive rapid removal of symptoms and addictive cravings in many cases. With this exciting new cutting edge therapy, people are removing distressing symptoms that they have unsuccessfully attempted to remove for many years, in only minutes to a few sessions. I also use Gestalt Therapy for healing and teach my clients tools to use at home. I am also trained in EMDR since the early 90's.
(562) 669-4595 View (562) 669-4595
Photo of Katie Kellogg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Katie Kellogg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Most of my experience has been with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use/dual diagnosis, self-harm, and grief and loss issues.
Hello! I honor your first step in seeking the support and guidance you might be needing right now. With my years of experience working in mental health, I understand the anxiety that can arise from starting therapy for the first time, or meeting a possible new provider. A safe, validating, and empathetic therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance, and can give you the space you need to explore novel avenues of healing and growth. From my perspective, my role is to help you make new discoveries about yourself, develop greater mental flexibility, and explore valuable tools for handling whatever life throws your way.
Most of my experience has been with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use/dual diagnosis, self-harm, and grief and loss issues.
Hello! I honor your first step in seeking the support and guidance you might be needing right now. With my years of experience working in mental health, I understand the anxiety that can arise from starting therapy for the first time, or meeting a possible new provider. A safe, validating, and empathetic therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance, and can give you the space you need to explore novel avenues of healing and growth. From my perspective, my role is to help you make new discoveries about yourself, develop greater mental flexibility, and explore valuable tools for handling whatever life throws your way.
(562) 337-3859 View (562) 337-3859
Photo of Teela Allen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Teela Allen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMHIMP, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
Waitlist for new clients
How hard is it for you to create balance and focus in a world full of distractions, dishonesty, & dis-ease? And if what I call the "detrimental D's" as stated above contributes to how you act/think/feel, then who or what is really controlling your life & wellbeing? Let me guess: social media, unaddressed trauma, grief & loss, emotional dysregulation, unhealthy boundaries, passiveness, impulsivity, mood or eating disorders, chronic fatigue, aches/pain, anxiety, depression, digestive discomfort, pH imbalances, etc. Talk therapy alone may be unsuccessful or even unappealing, are you interested in exploring something more effective?
How hard is it for you to create balance and focus in a world full of distractions, dishonesty, & dis-ease? And if what I call the "detrimental D's" as stated above contributes to how you act/think/feel, then who or what is really controlling your life & wellbeing? Let me guess: social media, unaddressed trauma, grief & loss, emotional dysregulation, unhealthy boundaries, passiveness, impulsivity, mood or eating disorders, chronic fatigue, aches/pain, anxiety, depression, digestive discomfort, pH imbalances, etc. Talk therapy alone may be unsuccessful or even unappealing, are you interested in exploring something more effective?
(424) 339-2143 View (424) 339-2143
Photo of Soul Restoration Project, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Soul Restoration Project
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Are you looking for counseling that integrates your Christian faith into the healing process? Are you looking for a therapist who can both understand the issue you struggle with as well as your spirituality? The Soul Restoration Project is a group of Marriage and Family Therapists (licensed and pre-licensed) who help individuals and couples find hope and healing. With nine therapists on staff we have a number of areas of expertise including: sexual addiction, relationship issues, eating disorders, couples therapy, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety and parenting.
Are you looking for counseling that integrates your Christian faith into the healing process? Are you looking for a therapist who can both understand the issue you struggle with as well as your spirituality? The Soul Restoration Project is a group of Marriage and Family Therapists (licensed and pre-licensed) who help individuals and couples find hope and healing. With nine therapists on staff we have a number of areas of expertise including: sexual addiction, relationship issues, eating disorders, couples therapy, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety and parenting.
(714) 702-1730 View (714) 702-1730
Photo of Nicole Woolf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Nicole Woolf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755
My specialty is working with those who are experiencing trauma, and grief and loss.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
My specialty is working with those who are experiencing trauma, and grief and loss.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
(310) 504-7306 View (310) 504-7306
Photo of Nicole Logan, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Long Beach, CA
Nicole Logan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
(310) 362-5485 View (310) 362-5485
Photo of Eshawn Williams, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Eshawn Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
I specialize in treating Bipolar, Anger Management, Self-Harming, ADHD, Anxiety, Addictions, Divorce, Relationship Issues, Couples Problems, Self-Esteem, Identity Development, Work-Place Struggles, Court Mandated, Depression, Bereavement, Veterans Issues, Childhood, Adolescent, Parenting-classes, and Adulthood difficulties.
Reaching out for help is a difficult thing to do. However, you are closer to your healing by viewing this. You may have felt misunderstood throughout your life, but self acceptance is the primary goal. My desire is for you to improve your daily functioning and satisfaction in your life. Engaging in individual, family, couples, and group therapy, you will enhance your communication skills, coping strategies, and a sense of emotional and mental wellness. Opportunities for a happier and more fulfilling life are developed through compassion, collaboration, and support. By picking up the phone and dialing my number you have displayed self love and hope.
I specialize in treating Bipolar, Anger Management, Self-Harming, ADHD, Anxiety, Addictions, Divorce, Relationship Issues, Couples Problems, Self-Esteem, Identity Development, Work-Place Struggles, Court Mandated, Depression, Bereavement, Veterans Issues, Childhood, Adolescent, Parenting-classes, and Adulthood difficulties.
Reaching out for help is a difficult thing to do. However, you are closer to your healing by viewing this. You may have felt misunderstood throughout your life, but self acceptance is the primary goal. My desire is for you to improve your daily functioning and satisfaction in your life. Engaging in individual, family, couples, and group therapy, you will enhance your communication skills, coping strategies, and a sense of emotional and mental wellness. Opportunities for a happier and more fulfilling life are developed through compassion, collaboration, and support. By picking up the phone and dialing my number you have displayed self love and hope.
(562) 758-7347 View (562) 758-7347
Photo of Christine Gonzalez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Christine Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CDAAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
News causing stress? Conflict at home? Let me help you to navigate this difficult time. Online, phone, and office sessions. Fees are tax deductible donations. Take care of yourself, find ways to meet your social needs, and restore some peace and joy in your home and family. You can have this. We can work together to find the relief and answers you need. If you want to reduce stress and worry, survive AND thrive, and find wholeness in the midst of uncertainty, CALL me. Life CAN be better. Don't spend another day suffering, or let anything stop you from getting the help you need. Other specialties: Trauma, Grief, Kids, Families.
News causing stress? Conflict at home? Let me help you to navigate this difficult time. Online, phone, and office sessions. Fees are tax deductible donations. Take care of yourself, find ways to meet your social needs, and restore some peace and joy in your home and family. You can have this. We can work together to find the relief and answers you need. If you want to reduce stress and worry, survive AND thrive, and find wholeness in the midst of uncertainty, CALL me. Life CAN be better. Don't spend another day suffering, or let anything stop you from getting the help you need. Other specialties: Trauma, Grief, Kids, Families.
(949) 537-2252 View (949) 537-2252
Photo of Justine Gordon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
(714) 912-1875 View (714) 912-1875
Photo of Keturah McClendon Baker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Keturah McClendon Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90801
I have experience in the following: Individual therapy Family Therapy Couples Therapy Group Therapy Adults Infant/Children/Adolescents Grief and Loss Foster Care and Adoption Depression Anxiety PTSD Anger Suicidal Ideation Bipolar Parent-Child Relationships Interpersonal Relationships.
Hello beautiful people. My most treasured skill as a therapist but most importantly as a human is the ability to connect and relate with almost any one no matter your race, gender, culture, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or age. I am learning in practice and in life that no matter how old, young, accomplished or established we become there will always be a natural human yearning we carry to feel like we belong and that we matter to others.
I have experience in the following: Individual therapy Family Therapy Couples Therapy Group Therapy Adults Infant/Children/Adolescents Grief and Loss Foster Care and Adoption Depression Anxiety PTSD Anger Suicidal Ideation Bipolar Parent-Child Relationships Interpersonal Relationships.
Hello beautiful people. My most treasured skill as a therapist but most importantly as a human is the ability to connect and relate with almost any one no matter your race, gender, culture, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or age. I am learning in practice and in life that no matter how old, young, accomplished or established we become there will always be a natural human yearning we carry to feel like we belong and that we matter to others.
(424) 364-1104 View (424) 364-1104
Photo of Janelle De Veyra, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Janelle De Veyra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
In addition, I specialize in intimacy concerns, grief/abandonment, identity issues, and life transitions.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
In addition, I specialize in intimacy concerns, grief/abandonment, identity issues, and life transitions.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
(714) 912-2768 View (714) 912-2768
Photo of Liana Huang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Liana Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
I have had the privilege to work with individuals with generational trauma, grief, ADHD, and relational/familial issues.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
I have had the privilege to work with individuals with generational trauma, grief, ADHD, and relational/familial issues.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
(714) 361-0969 View (714) 361-0969
Photo of Jennifer Jiries, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Jennifer Jiries
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90810  (Online Only)
My approach as a therapist is affirming, collaborative, strengths based, and tailored to each client I work with. I focus on providing a judgment-free zone so that clients have space and support to work on their personal goals. I hope to build a strong relationship with each client because I believe that a strong relationship is important to our ability to work together and helps to strengthen the client's ability to reach their goals. Therapy can sometimes be hard work and often means facing difficult experiences from our past. My hope is that I am providing a space where the client never feels alone in the process.
My approach as a therapist is affirming, collaborative, strengths based, and tailored to each client I work with. I focus on providing a judgment-free zone so that clients have space and support to work on their personal goals. I hope to build a strong relationship with each client because I believe that a strong relationship is important to our ability to work together and helps to strengthen the client's ability to reach their goals. Therapy can sometimes be hard work and often means facing difficult experiences from our past. My hope is that I am providing a space where the client never feels alone in the process.
(213) 474-3803 View (213) 474-3803
Photo of Ilana S Wasserman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Ilana S Wasserman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LEP, CMT, VMP
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
Being a therapist not only involves the training we are provided nor the previous clients with whom we have worked with. In my opinion, it involves the humility to allow one's client to feel safe enough to share the most vulnerable parts of their experiences in order for both of us to feel connected and moving in the same direction. My style of treatment follows my beliefs above. While we take our time bonding, I will be working to put the pieces together that you may be unable to see. Once we have a pattern established, we will go at your speed, perhaps with a light nudge from me, in order to discover the origins of your issues.
Being a therapist not only involves the training we are provided nor the previous clients with whom we have worked with. In my opinion, it involves the humility to allow one's client to feel safe enough to share the most vulnerable parts of their experiences in order for both of us to feel connected and moving in the same direction. My style of treatment follows my beliefs above. While we take our time bonding, I will be working to put the pieces together that you may be unable to see. Once we have a pattern established, we will go at your speed, perhaps with a light nudge from me, in order to discover the origins of your issues.
(949) 328-5710 View (949) 328-5710
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.