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 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 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 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 Merry Thomas, PhD, RN, Psychologist
Merry Thomas
Psychologist, PhD, RN
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Waitlist for new clients
"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 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 Paige Lynn Dickman, MA, LMFT, ATR, CTC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paige Lynn Dickman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR, CTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 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 I "see" those who feel "unseen", especially those exhausted from constant masking. While masking can be necessary, overdoing it can leave us feeling unworthy, disconnected, and trapped in perception. Authenticity is essential to genuine connection and fulfillment.
I specialize in treating complex grief, depression, perinatal trauma, OCD, chronic illness, traumatic brain injuries, hoarding, and anxiety.
I feel I "see" those who feel "unseen", especially those exhausted from constant masking. While masking can be necessary, overdoing it can leave us feeling unworthy, disconnected, and trapped in perception. Authenticity is essential to genuine connection and fulfillment.
(408) 556-9468 View (408) 556-9468
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 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 Karen H Shin, MFC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen H Shin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
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.
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 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 Christine Derr, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Derr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93942
I specialize in working with clients with mood issues, such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss.
My focus as a therapist is solution oriented, accessing inherent strengths to face the struggles we all encounter in life with new skills and insights. I enjoy working with clients who seek greater self understanding and changes in how they relate to themselves and others.
I specialize in working with clients with mood issues, such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss.
My focus as a therapist is solution oriented, accessing inherent strengths to face the struggles we all encounter in life with new skills and insights. I enjoy working with clients who seek greater self understanding and changes in how they relate to themselves and others.
(831) 607-8619 View (831) 607-8619
Photo of Martin Skerritt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Martin Skerritt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
You may be grieving a loss or a life adjustment.
Sometimes we need support and guidance for whatever life throws our way. I welcome you here! If you wish to make changes then I am here to help. My personal style is open and non-judgmental. You will find me kind supportive and encouraging. I am open-minded and curious to the unique story that brings you to therapy and find meaningful solutions in the face of your concerns.
You may be grieving a loss or a life adjustment.
Sometimes we need support and guidance for whatever life throws our way. I welcome you here! If you wish to make changes then I am here to help. My personal style is open and non-judgmental. You will find me kind supportive and encouraging. I am open-minded and curious to the unique story that brings you to therapy and find meaningful solutions in the face of your concerns.
(831) 534-9439 View (831) 534-9439
Photo of Larry B Kerkhoff Psy.d, PsyD, DMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Larry B Kerkhoff Psy.d
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, DMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with individuals and couples on the following issues: Relationship concerns, communication issues, depression, anxiety, difficulty dealing with life transitions, career issues, job stress, divorce recovery, grief and loss, healthy relationship skills, and finding that deeper sense of meaning and purpose in your life.
Accepting Aspire (MBIPA), Aspire Medicare Advantage, Medicare, TriWest, TriCare insurance and private pay clients. I also supervise trainees and associates and accept MediCal with them. My calm and friendly demeanor puts people at ease and promotes a safe and nurturing counseling environment. I chose this second career to help people navigate through the obstacles and pain in their life. My comforting and supportive style helps instill hope, peace, and spirituality. I have the life experiences plus a Doctorate Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy to help you discover the needed tools for your personal relationship toolbox.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples on the following issues: Relationship concerns, communication issues, depression, anxiety, difficulty dealing with life transitions, career issues, job stress, divorce recovery, grief and loss, healthy relationship skills, and finding that deeper sense of meaning and purpose in your life.
Accepting Aspire (MBIPA), Aspire Medicare Advantage, Medicare, TriWest, TriCare insurance and private pay clients. I also supervise trainees and associates and accept MediCal with them. My calm and friendly demeanor puts people at ease and promotes a safe and nurturing counseling environment. I chose this second career to help people navigate through the obstacles and pain in their life. My comforting and supportive style helps instill hope, peace, and spirituality. I have the life experiences plus a Doctorate Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy to help you discover the needed tools for your personal relationship toolbox.
(831) 664-9658 View (831) 664-9658
Photo of Kirsten Yackley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kirsten Yackley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
Welcome! I work with individual adults and adolescents who are feeling stuck and desiring some sort of shift in their lives. This can look like a a life transition (going to college, career change, grief, etc), relationship with yourself (the way you view and treat yourself), or shifting your overall mood (anxiety, depression, trauma). I aim to be a partner in change, rather than the expert on your life. I help people understand why they do the things they do by exploring how their past impacts their present day functioning. I offer tools for you to use in the present moment while we are gaining awareness of your patterns.
Welcome! I work with individual adults and adolescents who are feeling stuck and desiring some sort of shift in their lives. This can look like a a life transition (going to college, career change, grief, etc), relationship with yourself (the way you view and treat yourself), or shifting your overall mood (anxiety, depression, trauma). I aim to be a partner in change, rather than the expert on your life. I help people understand why they do the things they do by exploring how their past impacts their present day functioning. I offer tools for you to use in the present moment while we are gaining awareness of your patterns.
(831) 249-2182 View (831) 249-2182
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 Ronda Copeland, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ronda Copeland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
life, loss, trauma, dysfunctional relationships, compulsive behaviors can prevent us from moving on.
People come to therapy for various reasons. You may be in crisis or you may want to work on long-standing behaviors that are no longer working for you. Maybe negative self-talk is getting in your way, or repeating the same behavior expecting different results and aren't sure how to make the necessary changes. Therapy is a process, finding the right therapist is important.
life, loss, trauma, dysfunctional relationships, compulsive behaviors can prevent us from moving on.
People come to therapy for various reasons. You may be in crisis or you may want to work on long-standing behaviors that are no longer working for you. Maybe negative self-talk is getting in your way, or repeating the same behavior expecting different results and aren't sure how to make the necessary changes. Therapy is a process, finding the right therapist is important.
(831) 646-8917 View (831) 646-8917
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.