Grief Therapists in California

Photo of Christina Dee, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Dee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
I have many years of experience supporting others heal through a variety of issues including emotional injuries, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, phase of life transitions and initiations, existential crisis', fear and panic, family of origin and attachment issues, guilt, co-dependency, spiritual emergency and individual and vicarious trauma.
Connecting with yourself can bring a greater calm and balance to your life. I provide a warm presence to help you nourish, strengthen and restore yourself to emotional, physical and spiritual wellness. Whether you wish you heal a broken heart, process grief and loss, resolve a work challenge or discover ways to fine-tune your beliefs and attitudes, I am ready to journey by your side as a source of support, guidance and insight.
I have many years of experience supporting others heal through a variety of issues including emotional injuries, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, phase of life transitions and initiations, existential crisis', fear and panic, family of origin and attachment issues, guilt, co-dependency, spiritual emergency and individual and vicarious trauma.
Connecting with yourself can bring a greater calm and balance to your life. I provide a warm presence to help you nourish, strengthen and restore yourself to emotional, physical and spiritual wellness. Whether you wish you heal a broken heart, process grief and loss, resolve a work challenge or discover ways to fine-tune your beliefs and attitudes, I am ready to journey by your side as a source of support, guidance and insight.
(805) 316-7104 View (805) 316-7104
Photo of Diana Gómez Ibarra, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Gómez Ibarra
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Looking for help in this vulnerable process of healing? I'm honored to share space with people who bring the effects of Trauma and Loss to session. I am passionate about helping people with difficult pasts heal and feel more present. I help grievers work through the would-have could-have and should-haves that linger long after a loss. Have you spent more time explaining your Cultura to a therapist than the issues you wanted to focus on? Let's focus on you. I got you! I am a Bay Area Chicana therapist, that loves integrating culture as a means of healing, context and growth.
Looking for help in this vulnerable process of healing? I'm honored to share space with people who bring the effects of Trauma and Loss to session. I am passionate about helping people with difficult pasts heal and feel more present. I help grievers work through the would-have could-have and should-haves that linger long after a loss. Have you spent more time explaining your Cultura to a therapist than the issues you wanted to focus on? Let's focus on you. I got you! I am a Bay Area Chicana therapist, that loves integrating culture as a means of healing, context and growth.
(650) 458-0189 View (650) 458-0189
Photo of Dr. Nitsa Dimitrakos, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Nitsa Dimitrakos
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dublin, CA 94568
If you are experiencing loss, symptoms of anxiety, depression, somatic dis-ease related to stress, feelings of being stuck at an impasse in your life or any other form of emotional distress, please call me today for a free consultation and to learn more about how I can help.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with an emphasis in Depth Psychology, and also a Core Faculty Professor in a PsyD Program, where I teach courses in the theory and practice of psychotherapy. As a depth psychologist, my focus is psychodynamic with a strong Psychoanalytic and Jungian influence. Depth Psychology takes special account of the way we relate to self and other and how certain relational patterns, put into place from childhood, impact our day-to-day experiences. My specialties include grief counseling, relational conflicts, self-esteem issues & life transitions.
If you are experiencing loss, symptoms of anxiety, depression, somatic dis-ease related to stress, feelings of being stuck at an impasse in your life or any other form of emotional distress, please call me today for a free consultation and to learn more about how I can help.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with an emphasis in Depth Psychology, and also a Core Faculty Professor in a PsyD Program, where I teach courses in the theory and practice of psychotherapy. As a depth psychologist, my focus is psychodynamic with a strong Psychoanalytic and Jungian influence. Depth Psychology takes special account of the way we relate to self and other and how certain relational patterns, put into place from childhood, impact our day-to-day experiences. My specialties include grief counseling, relational conflicts, self-esteem issues & life transitions.
(925) 275-5105 View (925) 275-5105
Photo of Paula J Siegel, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paula J Siegel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Sonoma, CA 95476
Whether struggling with conflict, communication difficulties, infidelity or loss of sexual interest, I can help.
When the passion of your relationship plateaus, what's next? When your relationship reaches milestones such as the birth or departure of children, are you struggling with the adjustment? How strong is the foundation of your friendship? Do you feel that your partner understands you in essential ways? Many couples imagine that conflict indicates relationship trouble especially when certain issues repeatedly surface with no forward movement. Research proves this need not be the case. Conflict in relationship is normal; it's how you manage conflict that matters. There are clear and learnable skills that will deepen your friendship and love.
Whether struggling with conflict, communication difficulties, infidelity or loss of sexual interest, I can help.
When the passion of your relationship plateaus, what's next? When your relationship reaches milestones such as the birth or departure of children, are you struggling with the adjustment? How strong is the foundation of your friendship? Do you feel that your partner understands you in essential ways? Many couples imagine that conflict indicates relationship trouble especially when certain issues repeatedly surface with no forward movement. Research proves this need not be the case. Conflict in relationship is normal; it's how you manage conflict that matters. There are clear and learnable skills that will deepen your friendship and love.
(650) 741-1609 View (650) 741-1609
Photo of Redd Edeejahnai Darrelle Davis - Redd Davis, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Redd Davis, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hemet, CA 92545  (Online Only)
I strive to work with individuals struggling with complicated grief, chronic illness, and caregiver stress. This includes people dealing with concerns surrounding their own mortality as well and anticipatory grief. My ideal client can struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma related to health issues or caregiver/family stress. My ideal client resides in the state of California, is able to engage via Telehealth and is motivated to work towards healing and wholeness.
I strive to work with individuals struggling with complicated grief, chronic illness, and caregiver stress. This includes people dealing with concerns surrounding their own mortality as well and anticipatory grief. My ideal client can struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma related to health issues or caregiver/family stress. My ideal client resides in the state of California, is able to engage via Telehealth and is motivated to work towards healing and wholeness.
(909) 245-8573 View (909) 245-8573
Photo of Ericka Franklin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ericka Franklin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with clients living with a range of experiences which often include healing Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), self-discovery and acceptance within oppressive systems, finding wholeness after narcissistic abuse, and strengthening the heart after the loss of a loved one. To assist, I use an eclectic approach that can include theories from EMDR Therapy, Psychodynamic, Gestalt, and the Internal Family System. When artfully combined, these principles help to awaken change and ripple out improvement in the internal and external realities.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with clients living with a range of experiences which often include healing Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), self-discovery and acceptance within oppressive systems, finding wholeness after narcissistic abuse, and strengthening the heart after the loss of a loved one. To assist, I use an eclectic approach that can include theories from EMDR Therapy, Psychodynamic, Gestalt, and the Internal Family System. When artfully combined, these principles help to awaken change and ripple out improvement in the internal and external realities.
(310) 340-7530 View (310) 340-7530
Photo of Angela Reedy, AMFT, MAC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Angela Reedy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92110
I have experience working with sexual assault, complex PTSD, combat and moral injury, addictions, grief, families, and a full spectrum of mental health challenges.
I have a passion for coming alongside others and believe it's just part of my DNA as a human being. 25 years ago I began my career as a medical assistant and a teacher. In my late-20's I enlisted in the US Navy, where I served as a first responder and was part of the Sexual Assault Victims Intervention team. I've lived overseas with kids in tow, and have a deep understanding of the effects of betrayal, infidelity, and cross addictions. I've worked as a Hospice Spiritual and Bereavement Coordinator, a counselor at several crisis houses and transitional living centers, as well for non-profit agencies providing therapeutic services.
I have experience working with sexual assault, complex PTSD, combat and moral injury, addictions, grief, families, and a full spectrum of mental health challenges.
I have a passion for coming alongside others and believe it's just part of my DNA as a human being. 25 years ago I began my career as a medical assistant and a teacher. In my late-20's I enlisted in the US Navy, where I served as a first responder and was part of the Sexual Assault Victims Intervention team. I've lived overseas with kids in tow, and have a deep understanding of the effects of betrayal, infidelity, and cross addictions. I've worked as a Hospice Spiritual and Bereavement Coordinator, a counselor at several crisis houses and transitional living centers, as well for non-profit agencies providing therapeutic services.
(619) 627-1863 View (619) 627-1863
Photo of Chelsea Derossi, MFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chelsea Derossi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I can bring my expertise on child development, family dynamics, grief, trauma, perinatal mental health and you will bring your expertise on your family so we can come up with a plan that will support you where you are, whether you're a new parent or navigating the challenges of raising a growing or combined family.
If you're navigating the unique challenges of pregnancy, childbirth, the postpartum period or the parenting and family stages thereafter, I am here to support you. Deeply knowing the joys and struggles that come with parenthood, I know it is a big, important, life changing role. One that I know you want to show up to with as much wholeness, love and emotional health as possible. And sometimes challenges point you to where you need support so that you can into step into that next level of emotional health you know will serve you and your family.
I can bring my expertise on child development, family dynamics, grief, trauma, perinatal mental health and you will bring your expertise on your family so we can come up with a plan that will support you where you are, whether you're a new parent or navigating the challenges of raising a growing or combined family.
If you're navigating the unique challenges of pregnancy, childbirth, the postpartum period or the parenting and family stages thereafter, I am here to support you. Deeply knowing the joys and struggles that come with parenthood, I know it is a big, important, life changing role. One that I know you want to show up to with as much wholeness, love and emotional health as possible. And sometimes challenges point you to where you need support so that you can into step into that next level of emotional health you know will serve you and your family.
(949) 877-3545 View (949) 877-3545
Photo of Jen Poole, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jen Poole
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington, CA 94707
I am trained in grief work, stress reduction techniques, expressive arts therapy, craniosacral therapy, herbology and Tantric Buddhism.
Welcome to my practice. I am a heart-centered therapist who works collaboratively with you. This work supports you in finding the roots of self- limiting beliefs and relationship patterns, and provides tools and techniques for healing, which gives way to inner clarity and freedom. When you are connected to your inner wisdom and intelligence, your life becomes healthy and grounded, relationships are more intimate and loving, and quality of life becomes richer. I use a holistic body-heart-and soul approach with those who are committed to growth and healing.
I am trained in grief work, stress reduction techniques, expressive arts therapy, craniosacral therapy, herbology and Tantric Buddhism.
Welcome to my practice. I am a heart-centered therapist who works collaboratively with you. This work supports you in finding the roots of self- limiting beliefs and relationship patterns, and provides tools and techniques for healing, which gives way to inner clarity and freedom. When you are connected to your inner wisdom and intelligence, your life becomes healthy and grounded, relationships are more intimate and loving, and quality of life becomes richer. I use a holistic body-heart-and soul approach with those who are committed to growth and healing.
(628) 227-5436 View (628) 227-5436
Photo of Cherie Alexander, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cherie Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I feel especially passionate about working with those who are experiencing the effects of life altering losses; including death, divorce, adoption, infertility, baby loss, and perinatal mood disorders.
Has life taken an unexpected turn? Are you faced with difficult life changes? You may feel unprepared for the thoughts and feelings you are experiencing, and you may find that your ability to cope is greatly challenged. You may have decisions to make in the midst of it all and feel confused, overwhelmed, and alone. I would be honored to support you through this difficult time and to help you make sense of your thoughts and feelings; access your inner wisdom; find clarity; and feel better.
I feel especially passionate about working with those who are experiencing the effects of life altering losses; including death, divorce, adoption, infertility, baby loss, and perinatal mood disorders.
Has life taken an unexpected turn? Are you faced with difficult life changes? You may feel unprepared for the thoughts and feelings you are experiencing, and you may find that your ability to cope is greatly challenged. You may have decisions to make in the midst of it all and feel confused, overwhelmed, and alone. I would be honored to support you through this difficult time and to help you make sense of your thoughts and feelings; access your inner wisdom; find clarity; and feel better.
(831) 272-0590 View (831) 272-0590
Photo of Cheryl Purdue, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cheryl Purdue
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
My focus is on healing developmental trauma and its accompanying symptoms, which include anxiety, depression and unresolved grief. With more than 40 years spent as a therapist, and with my specialized somatic training, I help my clients use their body, mind and heart to get grounded, discharge old trauma and connect to their authentic selves. The more any of us can live with access to our full, unimpeded life force, the greater the gift to ourselves and the world.
My focus is on healing developmental trauma and its accompanying symptoms, which include anxiety, depression and unresolved grief. With more than 40 years spent as a therapist, and with my specialized somatic training, I help my clients use their body, mind and heart to get grounded, discharge old trauma and connect to their authentic selves. The more any of us can live with access to our full, unimpeded life force, the greater the gift to ourselves and the world.
(818) 492-9966 View (818) 492-9966
Photo of Joyce Cudanes, PsyD, Psychologist
Joyce Cudanes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
Whether your therapy goal is to learn how to better cope with relationship issues, life transitions, grief/ loss, or even suicidal thoughts, Dr.
Joyce Cudanes, PsyD is Licensed Psychologist in California who has 25+ years of experience. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at UCLA and her Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology-Los Angeles (CSPP-LA) at Alliant International University. Dr. Cudanes sees psychotherapy as a collaborative process in which everyone has the potential to find their own solutions and make positive changes but may just need some guidance.
Whether your therapy goal is to learn how to better cope with relationship issues, life transitions, grief/ loss, or even suicidal thoughts, Dr.
Joyce Cudanes, PsyD is Licensed Psychologist in California who has 25+ years of experience. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at UCLA and her Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology-Los Angeles (CSPP-LA) at Alliant International University. Dr. Cudanes sees psychotherapy as a collaborative process in which everyone has the potential to find their own solutions and make positive changes but may just need some guidance.
(657) 571-6754 View (657) 571-6754
Photo of Kimber Harvey, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimber Harvey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
If you are seeking long-term relief from anxiety, trauma, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or the various forms of loss, I will help you heal those emotional injuries that compound over a lifetime and make life lose its meaning and prevent you from living your best life.
When life's challenges - work, relationships, money troubles, illness or injury become too much to manage, or when the pain of the past pops up when you least expect it and disrupts sleep, or when daily stressors build up and make it hard to cope, that's when more than a friendly ear is needed. That's when a professional can help you heal the compounding effects of life experiences.
If you are seeking long-term relief from anxiety, trauma, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or the various forms of loss, I will help you heal those emotional injuries that compound over a lifetime and make life lose its meaning and prevent you from living your best life.
When life's challenges - work, relationships, money troubles, illness or injury become too much to manage, or when the pain of the past pops up when you least expect it and disrupts sleep, or when daily stressors build up and make it hard to cope, that's when more than a friendly ear is needed. That's when a professional can help you heal the compounding effects of life experiences.
(657) 530-6486 View (657) 530-6486
Photo of Jessica Hernandez Hablo Español, MA, APCC, AMFT
Jessica Hernandez Hablo Español
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
Redding, CA 96003  (Online Only)
I have experience in trauma informed techniques, evidence-based therapy, grief, depression, anxiety, and more.
Suffering in silence is more common than most think, feeling that we are alone and no one is going to understand. Please give yourself an opportunity to heal your wounds; I can help you. My goal as a therapist is to help you heal and empower you.
I have experience in trauma informed techniques, evidence-based therapy, grief, depression, anxiety, and more.
Suffering in silence is more common than most think, feeling that we are alone and no one is going to understand. Please give yourself an opportunity to heal your wounds; I can help you. My goal as a therapist is to help you heal and empower you.
(530) 441-0391 View (530) 441-0391
Photo of Ann Marie McKnight, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ann Marie McKnight
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
My areas of expertise include: relationship counseling for individuals and couples, grief, loss, bereavement (anticipatory or historical), trauma, disability, anxiety and depression.
Are you in the midst of an overwhelming life circumstance or reeling from loss? Are you feeling alone, scared or uncertain about your ability to cope? You deserve support from someone who will help you develop the skills to move forward in your life! I have years of experience helping individuals, couples and families to feel less alone by providing them with a safe, sensitive and non-judgmental space to unload their burdens, reduce feelings of isolation, restore hope and increase their personal functioning. Visit www.lovehealgrow.com to schedule or learn more.
My areas of expertise include: relationship counseling for individuals and couples, grief, loss, bereavement (anticipatory or historical), trauma, disability, anxiety and depression.
Are you in the midst of an overwhelming life circumstance or reeling from loss? Are you feeling alone, scared or uncertain about your ability to cope? You deserve support from someone who will help you develop the skills to move forward in your life! I have years of experience helping individuals, couples and families to feel less alone by providing them with a safe, sensitive and non-judgmental space to unload their burdens, reduce feelings of isolation, restore hope and increase their personal functioning. Visit www.lovehealgrow.com to schedule or learn more.
(530) 424-2063 View (530) 424-2063
Photo of Chelsy Duffer-Dunbar, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsy Duffer-Dunbar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90501  (Online Only)
I offer therapy for women, individuals who are pregnant, postpartum, and those experiencing perinatal loss.
Hi there! I'm Chelsy. As a Licensed Therapist, I strive to build the confidence and sense of empowerment in the women I work with. Also as a mother of two, I know that navigating life during pregnancy, times of loss, and as a new parent can be challenging and leave you feeling overwhelmed. I am here to support and guide you through this time of transition and will help you adjust to your new normal. Together, we will celebrate the joy you experience and honor the hardship of your parenthood and womanhood journey.
I offer therapy for women, individuals who are pregnant, postpartum, and those experiencing perinatal loss.
Hi there! I'm Chelsy. As a Licensed Therapist, I strive to build the confidence and sense of empowerment in the women I work with. Also as a mother of two, I know that navigating life during pregnancy, times of loss, and as a new parent can be challenging and leave you feeling overwhelmed. I am here to support and guide you through this time of transition and will help you adjust to your new normal. Together, we will celebrate the joy you experience and honor the hardship of your parenthood and womanhood journey.
(424) 304-1812 View (424) 304-1812
Photo of Carmelle Ellison, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carmelle Ellison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
This effective care can also help address unresolved traumas, relationship challenges, complicated grief, big life transitions, perfectionism, and impostor syndrome cycles.
As far as anyone knows, you’re an achiever. Yet, on the inside, you’re still striving like you have so much to prove to yourself and others. The exhaustion felt in your body, reminds you that there has to be more to life than self-sacrificial endurance. You’re in need of a full body exhale, and support along the path to lasting change. It’s time now - you’ve tried to do it on your own for far too long. You have the right to feel deeply alive, to embrace healthy unconditional care and support, and to take up unapologetic space in this world. In our work together, I'll help you live your life like it's golden.
This effective care can also help address unresolved traumas, relationship challenges, complicated grief, big life transitions, perfectionism, and impostor syndrome cycles.
As far as anyone knows, you’re an achiever. Yet, on the inside, you’re still striving like you have so much to prove to yourself and others. The exhaustion felt in your body, reminds you that there has to be more to life than self-sacrificial endurance. You’re in need of a full body exhale, and support along the path to lasting change. It’s time now - you’ve tried to do it on your own for far too long. You have the right to feel deeply alive, to embrace healthy unconditional care and support, and to take up unapologetic space in this world. In our work together, I'll help you live your life like it's golden.
(510) 573-7745 View (510) 573-7745
Photo of Renee Steele, PhD, Psychologist
Renee Steele
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
I am a licensed Psychologist and have specialized training in End-of Life transition, Bereavement, EMDR, and Emotionally Focused Therapy. Though I treat many types of clients, I specialize in working with people going through difficult times in their lives to include loss of a loved one or pet, illness, divorce or relationship disruptions, job loss, depression, and other life transitions. I love my work because, although I initially see people at a low point in their life, as we work together in a deeper way over time, they often find the courage and skills to make a lasting change.
I am a licensed Psychologist and have specialized training in End-of Life transition, Bereavement, EMDR, and Emotionally Focused Therapy. Though I treat many types of clients, I specialize in working with people going through difficult times in their lives to include loss of a loved one or pet, illness, divorce or relationship disruptions, job loss, depression, and other life transitions. I love my work because, although I initially see people at a low point in their life, as we work together in a deeper way over time, they often find the courage and skills to make a lasting change.
(916) 439-8227 View (916) 439-8227
Photo of Rebecca Jarrell, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Rebecca Jarrell
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405  (Online Only)
Working with me, you will find acceptance wherever you are along your grief journey.
Death is supposed to happen in other people's lives, not in yours. Your world has been thrown upside down now and no matter how hard you try, you just can not turn it right side up. You feel constantly judged for how are you grieving your loss. Some well-meaning friends and family offer unsolicited advise and platitudes. While they genuinely believe they are being helpful, they demonstrate time and again that they just don't get it. While you will never be the same person you were when your loved one was here with you, you can embrace the new you in this new, unwelcome life that you did not ask for.
Working with me, you will find acceptance wherever you are along your grief journey.
Death is supposed to happen in other people's lives, not in yours. Your world has been thrown upside down now and no matter how hard you try, you just can not turn it right side up. You feel constantly judged for how are you grieving your loss. Some well-meaning friends and family offer unsolicited advise and platitudes. While they genuinely believe they are being helpful, they demonstrate time and again that they just don't get it. While you will never be the same person you were when your loved one was here with you, you can embrace the new you in this new, unwelcome life that you did not ask for.
(505) 392-2291 View (505) 392-2291
Photo of Audra C. Wallace - Audra Wallace, LPCC, Inc., MS, LPCC, NCC, PPS
Audra Wallace, LPCC, Inc.
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, NCC, PPS
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92011
Audra is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and National Certified Counselor with a Masters of Science in Counseling. Audra's counseling experience started in North County education in 2002. She has experience working with adolescents, youth with disabilities, adults, families, trauma, grief and loss. As a clinician, Audra creates a safe and supportive environment for her clients by using a person-centered approach with emphases on cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, and brief interventions.
Audra is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and National Certified Counselor with a Masters of Science in Counseling. Audra's counseling experience started in North County education in 2002. She has experience working with adolescents, youth with disabilities, adults, families, trauma, grief and loss. As a clinician, Audra creates a safe and supportive environment for her clients by using a person-centered approach with emphases on cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, and brief interventions.
(760) 571-9862 View (760) 571-9862
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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.