Grief Therapists in Monterey, CA

Photo of David E Blasband, PhD, Psychologist
David E Blasband
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
from UCLA, I have worked in different settings with a diverse group of clients and concerns, including depression, loss and grief, anxiety, relationship issues, sexual identity/orientation, and difficult life transitions.
I work with individuals in both brief and longer-term psychotherapy. I practice integrative therapy that is strongly grounded in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused approaches. I strive to help clients increase awareness of thoughts and feelings, gain a better understanding of how their past contributes to their development, and gain skills in coping with stress and changing behaviors. I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process in which the client and therapist work together to develop goals and treatment plans.
from UCLA, I have worked in different settings with a diverse group of clients and concerns, including depression, loss and grief, anxiety, relationship issues, sexual identity/orientation, and difficult life transitions.
I work with individuals in both brief and longer-term psychotherapy. I practice integrative therapy that is strongly grounded in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused approaches. I strive to help clients increase awareness of thoughts and feelings, gain a better understanding of how their past contributes to their development, and gain skills in coping with stress and changing behaviors. I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process in which the client and therapist work together to develop goals and treatment plans.
(831) 233-8219 View (831) 233-8219
Photo of Allison Anthony, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Anthony
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
I started going to therapy when I was teen and it was that experience that lead me to pursuing a career where I would be able to help those the way I was helped. This lead me to complete my undergraduate degree in Psychology with a minor in sociology as well as my Masters in Social Work at California State University of Monterey Bay. I have experience working with the unhoused who were struggling with addiction and severe mental illness, adolescents, adults and first responders. I have a strong foundation in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, substance use disorders and grief.
I started going to therapy when I was teen and it was that experience that lead me to pursuing a career where I would be able to help those the way I was helped. This lead me to complete my undergraduate degree in Psychology with a minor in sociology as well as my Masters in Social Work at California State University of Monterey Bay. I have experience working with the unhoused who were struggling with addiction and severe mental illness, adolescents, adults and first responders. I have a strong foundation in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, substance use disorders and grief.
(831) 220-3707 View (831) 220-3707
Photo of Emily C. Julian, PhD, Psychologist
Emily C. Julian
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
My specialties include relational issues, identity development, social anxiety, grief, and spirituality.
I am a licensed psychologist experienced in working with adolescents and adults. I create an empathic, collaborative, encouraging environment that allows people to explore their identity and relationships to live a more fulfilling life. I build a therapeutic relationship on mutual respect and support people in using their strengths to overcome challenges. I believe that discovering and developing a sense of purpose is an important part of the healing process.
My specialties include relational issues, identity development, social anxiety, grief, and spirituality.
I am a licensed psychologist experienced in working with adolescents and adults. I create an empathic, collaborative, encouraging environment that allows people to explore their identity and relationships to live a more fulfilling life. I build a therapeutic relationship on mutual respect and support people in using their strengths to overcome challenges. I believe that discovering and developing a sense of purpose is an important part of the healing process.
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Photo of Barbara Bachmeier, PsyD, Psychologist
Barbara Bachmeier
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Hi, my name is Barbara Bachmeier-Levy and I am a seasoned licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health across all levels of care. My areas of focus include anxiety, chronic pain, grief, stress, and life-coaching for individuals. My clients have more often than not been motivated to engage in self-discovery, and often have some specific ideas about what they want to change, accomplish, or process. They enjoy a two-way engagement and quickly learn that I am a person that they can trust to share their personal journey with.
Hi, my name is Barbara Bachmeier-Levy and I am a seasoned licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health across all levels of care. My areas of focus include anxiety, chronic pain, grief, stress, and life-coaching for individuals. My clients have more often than not been motivated to engage in self-discovery, and often have some specific ideas about what they want to change, accomplish, or process. They enjoy a two-way engagement and quickly learn that I am a person that they can trust to share their personal journey with.
(213) 772-3938 View (213) 772-3938
Photo of Renee C. Monrad, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Renee C. Monrad
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93943
You were born with innate potential and natural abilities, yet it may be easy to forget your personal power if you struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, or overwhelmingly stressful life situations. Allow me to help gently guide you back to a sense of empowerment and together we can work on shifting your focus toward the personal strengths that give you energy. I am active in giving support and feedback and I will compassionately challenge beliefs and actions that no longer work for you. I believe you can change the way you think about painful experiences; seeing them instead, as transformative opportunities.
You were born with innate potential and natural abilities, yet it may be easy to forget your personal power if you struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, or overwhelmingly stressful life situations. Allow me to help gently guide you back to a sense of empowerment and together we can work on shifting your focus toward the personal strengths that give you energy. I am active in giving support and feedback and I will compassionately challenge beliefs and actions that no longer work for you. I believe you can change the way you think about painful experiences; seeing them instead, as transformative opportunities.
(831) 216-5038 View (831) 216-5038
Photo of Aline Ungari Monzillo Bendeck, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aline Ungari Monzillo Bendeck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Waitlist for new clients
I support those struggling with trauma, acculturation, depression, anxiety, school/bullying issues, divorce, parenting challenges, miscarriage or infant loss, bereaved clients, life-threatening diagnosis and terminal illness.
Seeking support can be daunting, but it is also the first step to finding your path through self-inquiry, growth and integration. I would like to accompany you in this unfolding process of discovery. My clinical work began in 2002 when I became a Clinical Psychologist in my country of origin. During the past 19 years, I have been serving diverse populations from a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds, age groups, race, socio-economic status, and distinct spiritual paths. I also offer support and guidance for adoptive families, foster families and legal guardians going through adjustments with caregiving and parenting.
I support those struggling with trauma, acculturation, depression, anxiety, school/bullying issues, divorce, parenting challenges, miscarriage or infant loss, bereaved clients, life-threatening diagnosis and terminal illness.
Seeking support can be daunting, but it is also the first step to finding your path through self-inquiry, growth and integration. I would like to accompany you in this unfolding process of discovery. My clinical work began in 2002 when I became a Clinical Psychologist in my country of origin. During the past 19 years, I have been serving diverse populations from a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds, age groups, race, socio-economic status, and distinct spiritual paths. I also offer support and guidance for adoptive families, foster families and legal guardians going through adjustments with caregiving and parenting.
(415) 943-3667 View (415) 943-3667
Photo of Merry Thomas, PhD, RN, Psychologist
Merry Thomas
Psychologist, PhD, RN
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
"Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony." -Mahatma Gandhi I am an experienced, compassionate therapist creating a caring, therapeutic relationship to facilitate healing, overcome depression, anxiety, work through grief and loss, increase self-esteem, strengthen boundaries and improve relationships. My areas of expertise include: eating disorders, abuse issues, depression, stress; helping people recreate themselves and balance their lives to reach their full potential. I offer individual psychotherapy and life coaching. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and a registered nurse
"Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony." -Mahatma Gandhi I am an experienced, compassionate therapist creating a caring, therapeutic relationship to facilitate healing, overcome depression, anxiety, work through grief and loss, increase self-esteem, strengthen boundaries and improve relationships. My areas of expertise include: eating disorders, abuse issues, depression, stress; helping people recreate themselves and balance their lives to reach their full potential. I offer individual psychotherapy and life coaching. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and a registered nurse
(510) 470-7238 View (510) 470-7238
Photo of Paige Lynn Dickman, MA, LMFT, ATR, CTC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paige Lynn Dickman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR, CTC
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
When we experience transition, loss, find ourselves in cycles of addictive behaviors, or find we've lost our center, no matter what age or stage of life, this life can feel overwhelming. Heart centered, skillful guidance and support can help us find renewal, peace and wholeness in the midst of life's most challenging circumstances.
When we experience transition, loss, find ourselves in cycles of addictive behaviors, or find we've lost our center, no matter what age or stage of life, this life can feel overwhelming. Heart centered, skillful guidance and support can help us find renewal, peace and wholeness in the midst of life's most challenging circumstances.
(831) 318-5828 View (831) 318-5828
Photo of Nicole Morgan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Morgan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
I have years of experience working with individuals (adults, children and adolescents), couples and families confronted with a variety of issues, such as depression, anxiety, suicidality, trauma, grief and loss, stress management, relationship difficulties, divorce, and life transitions.
Sometimes the challenges we face in life can feel overwhelming and impossible to overcome, and it is my belief that through authentic human connection, compassion and unconditional positive regard one can open up new doors of self-discovery that will allow them to find meaning, purpose and healing. It is my goal to help shine light on areas of your inner experience that will foster your ability to expand your self-awareness and make life changes. No two individuals are the same, thus I strongly believe in working with you to understand what your unique experience is like and adjust my approach to meet you where you are at.
I have years of experience working with individuals (adults, children and adolescents), couples and families confronted with a variety of issues, such as depression, anxiety, suicidality, trauma, grief and loss, stress management, relationship difficulties, divorce, and life transitions.
Sometimes the challenges we face in life can feel overwhelming and impossible to overcome, and it is my belief that through authentic human connection, compassion and unconditional positive regard one can open up new doors of self-discovery that will allow them to find meaning, purpose and healing. It is my goal to help shine light on areas of your inner experience that will foster your ability to expand your self-awareness and make life changes. No two individuals are the same, thus I strongly believe in working with you to understand what your unique experience is like and adjust my approach to meet you where you are at.
(831) 264-1697 View (831) 264-1697
Photo of Hillary Van Horn-Gatlin, PhD, Psychologist
Hillary Van Horn-Gatlin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940  (Online Only)
I specialize in chronic health conditions, health crises, end-of-life care, grief and loss, with additional training in tic disorders, ADHD, neurological conditions and cancer care for all ages.
Viktor Frankl wrote "Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom." With more than 15 years in practice focusing on healthcare providers, patients and families experiencing significant stress, loss, and grief, I have seen the full scope of human suffering, resilience, compassion and grace. Our time together will be spent supporting the decisions that must be made and unpacking these moments and how they have shaped our pain, our lives and our hopes in the face of experiences outside our own control.
I specialize in chronic health conditions, health crises, end-of-life care, grief and loss, with additional training in tic disorders, ADHD, neurological conditions and cancer care for all ages.
Viktor Frankl wrote "Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom." With more than 15 years in practice focusing on healthcare providers, patients and families experiencing significant stress, loss, and grief, I have seen the full scope of human suffering, resilience, compassion and grace. Our time together will be spent supporting the decisions that must be made and unpacking these moments and how they have shaped our pain, our lives and our hopes in the face of experiences outside our own control.
(805) 215-1169 View (805) 215-1169
Photo of Brittney Putman, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Brittney Putman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating complex grief, depression, perinatal trauma, OCD, chronic illness, traumatic brain injuries, hoarding, and anxiety.
I feel that I "see" people who feel "unseen", especially those exhausted, depressed, and anxious from the constant effort of masking. Masking—hiding our true selves from the world—can be necessary, but when it exceeds our boundaries, it can make us feel unworthy, disconnected and trapped in the perception of others. Therapy is safe space where you can heal and reconnect with your authentic self. Accepting and staying true to ourselves is a fundamental need, that fosters connection and fulfillment.
I specialize in treating complex grief, depression, perinatal trauma, OCD, chronic illness, traumatic brain injuries, hoarding, and anxiety.
I feel that I "see" people who feel "unseen", especially those exhausted, depressed, and anxious from the constant effort of masking. Masking—hiding our true selves from the world—can be necessary, but when it exceeds our boundaries, it can make us feel unworthy, disconnected and trapped in the perception of others. Therapy is safe space where you can heal and reconnect with your authentic self. Accepting and staying true to ourselves is a fundamental need, that fosters connection and fulfillment.
(408) 556-9468 View (408) 556-9468
Photo of Karen H Shin, MFC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen H Shin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
As I continue to learn, I use an integrative approach based on multiple evidenced based models and am passionate about healing the wounds of trauma and losses and the impact on attachment, development and interpersonal relationship.
Hello. I’m a trauma informed attachment therapist certified in EMDR. I believe in our ability to heal and grow. I love to see individual and families to heal, grow and thrive because occasionally being human is difficult. I would be honored if invited to be a part of your journey as you explore issues around yourself, on parenting, or relationship challenges. If you experience self-doubt, depression, anxiety, due to trauma, grief and losses, I’m here for you. If you have been considering bringing some positive changes to your life, reach out to me and let's journey together.
As I continue to learn, I use an integrative approach based on multiple evidenced based models and am passionate about healing the wounds of trauma and losses and the impact on attachment, development and interpersonal relationship.
Hello. I’m a trauma informed attachment therapist certified in EMDR. I believe in our ability to heal and grow. I love to see individual and families to heal, grow and thrive because occasionally being human is difficult. I would be honored if invited to be a part of your journey as you explore issues around yourself, on parenting, or relationship challenges. If you experience self-doubt, depression, anxiety, due to trauma, grief and losses, I’m here for you. If you have been considering bringing some positive changes to your life, reach out to me and let's journey together.
(805) 219-7078 View (805) 219-7078
Photo of Cat McDowell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cat McDowell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Hi, and welcome. Making the decision to look for a therapist can feel hopeful and vulnerable. Whether you're my new client or someone else's, I encourage you to follow the part of you that says now's the time. There are many reasons people decide to try therapy. Perhaps you're aware of a pattern of stops and starts; a feeling of being stuck. Maybe you have patterns of reactivity that get easily triggered. You may be experiencing deep grief, or trauma. There may be big changes and decisions to make. You could be overwhelmed, anxious, and/or depressed. Often there's an overarching feeling that your life is not working.
Hi, and welcome. Making the decision to look for a therapist can feel hopeful and vulnerable. Whether you're my new client or someone else's, I encourage you to follow the part of you that says now's the time. There are many reasons people decide to try therapy. Perhaps you're aware of a pattern of stops and starts; a feeling of being stuck. Maybe you have patterns of reactivity that get easily triggered. You may be experiencing deep grief, or trauma. There may be big changes and decisions to make. You could be overwhelmed, anxious, and/or depressed. Often there's an overarching feeling that your life is not working.
(831) 278-4203 View (831) 278-4203
Photo of Mary Welschmeyer, BSN, MAPsych, RN, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Welschmeyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, BSN, MAPsych, RN, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
If you reside in a painful body and/or suffer from grief, loss, trauma, anxiety/depression, I have over 25 years of experience providing tools to cope with pain, loss and improve the quality of your life.
Prior to becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist, I worked as an Intensive Care Nurse and Educator. I have witnessed the importance of integrating mind, body and spirit in the role of healing. In my work I utilize techniques from a variety of theories in an attempt to identify and resolve issues you are facing. To achieve your goals, I employ Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma, Guided Imagery, Expressive Arts and Sandtray. I help clients reclaim parts of self eclipsed by childhood woundedness. My focus is to empower you to find your authentic voice and inner wisdom.
If you reside in a painful body and/or suffer from grief, loss, trauma, anxiety/depression, I have over 25 years of experience providing tools to cope with pain, loss and improve the quality of your life.
Prior to becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist, I worked as an Intensive Care Nurse and Educator. I have witnessed the importance of integrating mind, body and spirit in the role of healing. In my work I utilize techniques from a variety of theories in an attempt to identify and resolve issues you are facing. To achieve your goals, I employ Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma, Guided Imagery, Expressive Arts and Sandtray. I help clients reclaim parts of self eclipsed by childhood woundedness. My focus is to empower you to find your authentic voice and inner wisdom.
(831) 278-4714 View (831) 278-4714
Photo of Rebecca Hardt, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Hardt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940  (Online Only)
Some common issues I specialize in are: perinatal mood/ anxiety disorders, military life adjustments, trauma, anxiety, addiction, pathological love relationships, grief/ loss, domestic abuse, divorce, blended families, teen / adult dating issues and LGBT+.
I wholeheartedly believe it’s my role as a therapist to assist you in realizing, accessing and cultivating the internal and external resources that you already possess. Stress, conflict, and pain are those given aspects of life. I'll support you in healing, reconnecting and making empowering choices to achieve peace and feel more joy on a daily basis. Together, we will create a safe space for vulnerability and strength; both are needed for change. Our sessions will allow you to move through stuck points in your mind, relationships and environment. My approach is empathic, direct, emotionally supportive and solutions focused.
Some common issues I specialize in are: perinatal mood/ anxiety disorders, military life adjustments, trauma, anxiety, addiction, pathological love relationships, grief/ loss, domestic abuse, divorce, blended families, teen / adult dating issues and LGBT+.
I wholeheartedly believe it’s my role as a therapist to assist you in realizing, accessing and cultivating the internal and external resources that you already possess. Stress, conflict, and pain are those given aspects of life. I'll support you in healing, reconnecting and making empowering choices to achieve peace and feel more joy on a daily basis. Together, we will create a safe space for vulnerability and strength; both are needed for change. Our sessions will allow you to move through stuck points in your mind, relationships and environment. My approach is empathic, direct, emotionally supportive and solutions focused.
(831) 268-6273 View (831) 268-6273
Photo of Brenda Lang, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brenda Lang
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Having made major life and career changes myself (from CPA to LMFT) gives me a unique ability to help clients who have emotional issues related to financial, career or life transition issues. I have also worked as a middle school counselor, which helps me in working with teens and families. My clinical areas of expertise include issues related to relationships and communication, career counseling, employment, education and money or life transition. I also work with depression, anxiety, stress management, grief and loss. I work with individuals, couples, families and adolescents.
Having made major life and career changes myself (from CPA to LMFT) gives me a unique ability to help clients who have emotional issues related to financial, career or life transition issues. I have also worked as a middle school counselor, which helps me in working with teens and families. My clinical areas of expertise include issues related to relationships and communication, career counseling, employment, education and money or life transition. I also work with depression, anxiety, stress management, grief and loss. I work with individuals, couples, families and adolescents.
(831) 250-6969 View (831) 250-6969
Photo of Justine Joslyn, MA
Justine Joslyn
MA
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940  (Online Only)
Hello! Since 2006, I have helped couples & families resolve stuck dynamics with communication & connection skills. I also assist individuals recover from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction & ADHD/ADD, with support through transitions such as divorce, loss, abuse recovery & existential or spiritual awakening. My style is flexible and tailored to your preferences, balancing compassion with real results. You'll also learn how to re-connect to your with your wise inner guidance, and replace negative ego chatter with empowering narratives that inspire smart, bold moves with your career, creativity & relationships.
Hello! Since 2006, I have helped couples & families resolve stuck dynamics with communication & connection skills. I also assist individuals recover from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction & ADHD/ADD, with support through transitions such as divorce, loss, abuse recovery & existential or spiritual awakening. My style is flexible and tailored to your preferences, balancing compassion with real results. You'll also learn how to re-connect to your with your wise inner guidance, and replace negative ego chatter with empowering narratives that inspire smart, bold moves with your career, creativity & relationships.
(831) 353-8414 View (831) 353-8414
Photo of Jose Rodriguez, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jose Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940  (Online Only)
I have been working in behavioral health since 2008 and help clients who are suffering from depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, trauma, relationship issues, work stress, grief, and difficult life transitions. We would aim to get to the root cause(s), improve communication skills, adapt to situations effectively explore coping skills, process feelings, and making behavior modifications. My main approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and introduce concepts from Positive Psychology (essentially the study of what leads to happiness and success).
I have been working in behavioral health since 2008 and help clients who are suffering from depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, trauma, relationship issues, work stress, grief, and difficult life transitions. We would aim to get to the root cause(s), improve communication skills, adapt to situations effectively explore coping skills, process feelings, and making behavior modifications. My main approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and introduce concepts from Positive Psychology (essentially the study of what leads to happiness and success).
(831) 337-2473 View (831) 337-2473
Photo of J Michelle Peterson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
J Michelle Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
The first step in healing is finding a safe environment to seek support. You have found that safe place! I am here to support you through your journey in achieving balance through connecting your body, mind, heart, and spirit. I specialize in working with people who are experiencing depression and anxiety. I also have specialized training to work with clients who have experienced any kind of trauma. Other areas of expertise includes addiction and grief, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused Behavioral Therapy.
The first step in healing is finding a safe environment to seek support. You have found that safe place! I am here to support you through your journey in achieving balance through connecting your body, mind, heart, and spirit. I specialize in working with people who are experiencing depression and anxiety. I also have specialized training to work with clients who have experienced any kind of trauma. Other areas of expertise includes addiction and grief, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused Behavioral Therapy.
(801) 396-9899 View (801) 396-9899
Photo of Carrie L Forrest, PhD, QME, Psychologist
Carrie L Forrest
Psychologist, PhD, QME
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
I utilize my training and experience in Psychotherapy, Medical Hypnosis and Biofeedback to help you accomplish your desired goals. From my extensive background I utilize what will work best for you as an individual. A result of our work together is for you to become congruent within all aspects of your life; your actions, thoughts and feelings, while living to the fullest each and every day. I will help you overcome obstacles and develop healthy coping skills. I specialize in recovery from traumas (PTSD), grief and loss, integrating and assimilating chronic pain, addictive behaviors and other conditions.
I utilize my training and experience in Psychotherapy, Medical Hypnosis and Biofeedback to help you accomplish your desired goals. From my extensive background I utilize what will work best for you as an individual. A result of our work together is for you to become congruent within all aspects of your life; your actions, thoughts and feelings, while living to the fullest each and every day. I will help you overcome obstacles and develop healthy coping skills. I specialize in recovery from traumas (PTSD), grief and loss, integrating and assimilating chronic pain, addictive behaviors and other conditions.
(831) 337-4414 View (831) 337-4414
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.