Photo of Shirl Kelemer, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Shirl Kelemer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
Many clients come to me depressed, grief stricken, or at a loss for where to proceed in their lives. Faulty thinking can block the ability to realize new options for thoughts and behaviors. Training, wisdom, and life experiences allow me to help guide my clients to their best therapeutic path, to personalize treatment, and to help them find their purpose. I work with trauma survivors, people with disabilities, life transitions, crises, hospice care, death, and chronic anxiety. I'm also trained to support artists through their creative struggles. That process provides them the foundation to strengthen them for any future challenges.
Many clients come to me depressed, grief stricken, or at a loss for where to proceed in their lives. Faulty thinking can block the ability to realize new options for thoughts and behaviors. Training, wisdom, and life experiences allow me to help guide my clients to their best therapeutic path, to personalize treatment, and to help them find their purpose. I work with trauma survivors, people with disabilities, life transitions, crises, hospice care, death, and chronic anxiety. I'm also trained to support artists through their creative struggles. That process provides them the foundation to strengthen them for any future challenges.
(323) 621-3513 View (323) 621-3513
Photo of Julia Galaudet Psyd Lcsw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
Julia Galaudet Psyd Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
With over twenty years of experience, I feel comfortable treating a vast variety of personal problems including; relationship struggles, death of loved ones, infidelity, marital conflicts, infertility, depression, anger, addictions, codependency, divorce, blended families etc.
Let's face it- Whatever you are going through and whatever is bringing you to seek a therapist, it is probably not fun. Whether it is a break up, a divorce, a job loss, a death of a loved one, you have come to the right place. Seeking therapy and gaining self awareness can be life changing. Whether it is a current life crisis or the desire to change old ugly repetitive patterns, my style is nurturing, directive and fun. I work with you as a team getting to the core of the problem, and to help you move forward, hopefully with a fresh and new perspective.
With over twenty years of experience, I feel comfortable treating a vast variety of personal problems including; relationship struggles, death of loved ones, infidelity, marital conflicts, infertility, depression, anger, addictions, codependency, divorce, blended families etc.
Let's face it- Whatever you are going through and whatever is bringing you to seek a therapist, it is probably not fun. Whether it is a break up, a divorce, a job loss, a death of a loved one, you have come to the right place. Seeking therapy and gaining self awareness can be life changing. Whether it is a current life crisis or the desire to change old ugly repetitive patterns, my style is nurturing, directive and fun. I work with you as a team getting to the core of the problem, and to help you move forward, hopefully with a fresh and new perspective.
(310) 927-6816 View (310) 927-6816
Photo of Jason Karasev, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Jason Karasev
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
I have experience working with vast cultures, age-groups, and family histories, with specialized trainings in trauma, grief, relationship concerns, attachment, play therapy, and parenting.
Sometimes, our relationship to others, and ourselves, has lost its footing. We may even find ourselves feeling disconnected and overwhelmed by difficult emotions. Though we often push through life’s challenges alone, the truth is, we don’t have to. In our time together, I hope to collaborate with you in identifying the patterns, thoughts, and feelings that may be blocking you from a happy relationship to yourself and others, even if it feels beyond words at this time. I believe an environment of warmth, curiosity, and creativity can help us heal in ways we may have never thought possible.
I have experience working with vast cultures, age-groups, and family histories, with specialized trainings in trauma, grief, relationship concerns, attachment, play therapy, and parenting.
Sometimes, our relationship to others, and ourselves, has lost its footing. We may even find ourselves feeling disconnected and overwhelmed by difficult emotions. Though we often push through life’s challenges alone, the truth is, we don’t have to. In our time together, I hope to collaborate with you in identifying the patterns, thoughts, and feelings that may be blocking you from a happy relationship to yourself and others, even if it feels beyond words at this time. I believe an environment of warmth, curiosity, and creativity can help us heal in ways we may have never thought possible.
(747) 204-3272 View (747) 204-3272
Photo of Felicia Lepetri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
Felicia Lepetri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grief and loss are often manifested in different ways, and I believe therapy is a collaborative experience which involves trust and compassion.
Life transitions and change often bring up feelings of uncertainty and worry. Although, these transitions are often expected or even decided by us, it can cause an overwhelming sense of doubt and sometimes feelings of grief. I work with clients who are experiencing challenges with life transitions, like motherhood, coming in or out of a relationship, and grief and loss. My approach is to make meaning of your losses and transitions, support you through your experience and identify strategies to help you feel grounded, connected and seen.
Grief and loss are often manifested in different ways, and I believe therapy is a collaborative experience which involves trust and compassion.
Life transitions and change often bring up feelings of uncertainty and worry. Although, these transitions are often expected or even decided by us, it can cause an overwhelming sense of doubt and sometimes feelings of grief. I work with clients who are experiencing challenges with life transitions, like motherhood, coming in or out of a relationship, and grief and loss. My approach is to make meaning of your losses and transitions, support you through your experience and identify strategies to help you feel grounded, connected and seen.
(310) 893-6819 View (310) 893-6819
Photo of Thomas Roslak, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Thomas Roslak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90046  (Online Only)
“I’m having an existential crisis” & “I’m struggling with my goals” are oftentimes one of the first sentences that a person says to me when seeking therapy. My clients are vibrant, smart, creative individuals who want to increase their quality of life. People who come in for therapy are struggling with life transitions, grief & loss, career issues, artistic blocks, anxiety, disappointment, depression, anger, frustration, addiction issues, and interpersonal, or romantic challenges. They are looking to feel better, make strides in their personal lives and careers, understand themselves, and seek opportunities to change their lives.
“I’m having an existential crisis” & “I’m struggling with my goals” are oftentimes one of the first sentences that a person says to me when seeking therapy. My clients are vibrant, smart, creative individuals who want to increase their quality of life. People who come in for therapy are struggling with life transitions, grief & loss, career issues, artistic blocks, anxiety, disappointment, depression, anger, frustration, addiction issues, and interpersonal, or romantic challenges. They are looking to feel better, make strides in their personal lives and careers, understand themselves, and seek opportunities to change their lives.
(424) 233-1590 View (424) 233-1590
Photo of Sam Elliott Pow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
Sam Elliott Pow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
My clients heal from the deep wounds of trauma and loss that are at the root of their struggles through Psychodynamic Therapy and Somatic Experiencing.
Healing from trauma, reclaiming power, growing from struggle and learning to work WITH emotions rather than AGAINST them are the goals I strive to support my clients in achieving. I want to help my clients move beyond simply not feeling so depressed, anxious, angry or manic. I want to help them transcend their pain, feel like they are fulfilling their purpose in life, are able to truly love themselves and are cultivating relationships that feed their soul. Narrative Therapy teaches my clients to transform the meaning of what they have been through and techniques from Existential Therapy help clients create or discover their purpose.
My clients heal from the deep wounds of trauma and loss that are at the root of their struggles through Psychodynamic Therapy and Somatic Experiencing.
Healing from trauma, reclaiming power, growing from struggle and learning to work WITH emotions rather than AGAINST them are the goals I strive to support my clients in achieving. I want to help my clients move beyond simply not feeling so depressed, anxious, angry or manic. I want to help them transcend their pain, feel like they are fulfilling their purpose in life, are able to truly love themselves and are cultivating relationships that feed their soul. Narrative Therapy teaches my clients to transform the meaning of what they have been through and techniques from Existential Therapy help clients create or discover their purpose.
(747) 271-2029 View (747) 271-2029
Photo of Sandi Homchick, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Sandi Homchick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and relationship issues.
Life can be complicated and sometimes we need support to move through challenging times. My approach is caring, warm, respectful and collaborative. I tailor my work to each individual, working together to meet one's goals.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and relationship issues.
Life can be complicated and sometimes we need support to move through challenging times. My approach is caring, warm, respectful and collaborative. I tailor my work to each individual, working together to meet one's goals.
(323) 405-9114 View (323) 405-9114
Photo of Sara Sherman, Psychologist in 90046, CA
Sara Sherman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Many caregivers have trouble understanding and managing their child’s behavior. I will strengthen your relationship with your child by teaching you how they think, and empowering you to change how they behave. My specialties include ADHD, anxiety, autism, depression, developmental disabilities, grief, OCD, oppositional defiance, and trauma.
Many caregivers have trouble understanding and managing their child’s behavior. I will strengthen your relationship with your child by teaching you how they think, and empowering you to change how they behave. My specialties include ADHD, anxiety, autism, depression, developmental disabilities, grief, OCD, oppositional defiance, and trauma.
(323) 207-1752 View (323) 207-1752
Photo of Leily Labuda, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Leily Labuda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Are you struggling with anxiety, grief, low self esteem or are stuck in patterns and relationships that are no longer serving you? I offer a warm, empathic, and non-judgmental place, so that we can work together to process painful and traumatic emotions, navigate life-stressors, gain new insights, and take practical steps toward healthy self-acceptance. I specialize in treating trauma through an attachment and relational lens. I use evident-based treatments such as EMDR, EFT and mindfulness that allow for a holistic and collaborative approach to help my clients gain awareness and to cultivate change and deeper connection.
Are you struggling with anxiety, grief, low self esteem or are stuck in patterns and relationships that are no longer serving you? I offer a warm, empathic, and non-judgmental place, so that we can work together to process painful and traumatic emotions, navigate life-stressors, gain new insights, and take practical steps toward healthy self-acceptance. I specialize in treating trauma through an attachment and relational lens. I use evident-based treatments such as EMDR, EFT and mindfulness that allow for a holistic and collaborative approach to help my clients gain awareness and to cultivate change and deeper connection.
(323) 576-4487 View (323) 576-4487
Photo of Julie Blair Carter, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Julie Blair Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
I work collaboratively in a safe, non-judgmental environment with life transitions, personal growth, divorce, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationships and parenting (straight, gay and single).
Are you struggling in your relationships or in other areas of your life? Are you depressed or anxious and don't understand why? In therapy we can focus on getting relief from your symptoms while exploring the underlying causes ultimately leading to meaningful changes. Behavior patterns formed in the past do not need to dictate the quality of your life in the present. Identifying these patterns in a highly interactive therapeutic relationship can lead you to a path of improved relationships and enhanced wellbeing.
I work collaboratively in a safe, non-judgmental environment with life transitions, personal growth, divorce, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationships and parenting (straight, gay and single).
Are you struggling in your relationships or in other areas of your life? Are you depressed or anxious and don't understand why? In therapy we can focus on getting relief from your symptoms while exploring the underlying causes ultimately leading to meaningful changes. Behavior patterns formed in the past do not need to dictate the quality of your life in the present. Identifying these patterns in a highly interactive therapeutic relationship can lead you to a path of improved relationships and enhanced wellbeing.
(424) 235-1936 View (424) 235-1936
Photo of Trina Chan, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Trina Chan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I believe strongly in creating a safe, open and non-judgmental environment in order for individuals to feel comfortable expressing themselves and to work through difficult and complex issues. I am a therapist bilingual in English and Mandarin, and I have experience working with anxiety, trauma, depression, grief and loss, family and relationship issues, life transitions, amongst others. I work mainly with adults and adolescents.
I believe strongly in creating a safe, open and non-judgmental environment in order for individuals to feel comfortable expressing themselves and to work through difficult and complex issues. I am a therapist bilingual in English and Mandarin, and I have experience working with anxiety, trauma, depression, grief and loss, family and relationship issues, life transitions, amongst others. I work mainly with adults and adolescents.
(323) 924-3351 View (323) 924-3351
Photo of Stephanie Groom, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Stephanie Groom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Everyone has a life story filled with unique colors. Each color represents personal experiences, strengths, behaviors, relationships, and our inner world. Sometimes we find it hard to navigate through challenges and to face realities, which are unfamiliar and/or unexpected. Prior experiences may interrupt our current way of interacting, thinking, relating, and managing daily life. Stress contributes to increased anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, and relational issues. Trauma can debilitate individuals, couples, and families creating abrupt internal changes and fears. Grief over individual loss needs to be honored and acknowledged. Change occurs as a direct result of uncovering new insights.
Everyone has a life story filled with unique colors. Each color represents personal experiences, strengths, behaviors, relationships, and our inner world. Sometimes we find it hard to navigate through challenges and to face realities, which are unfamiliar and/or unexpected. Prior experiences may interrupt our current way of interacting, thinking, relating, and managing daily life. Stress contributes to increased anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, and relational issues. Trauma can debilitate individuals, couples, and families creating abrupt internal changes and fears. Grief over individual loss needs to be honored and acknowledged. Change occurs as a direct result of uncovering new insights.
(818) 918-2057 View (818) 918-2057
Photo of Dr. Pekti, Psychologist in 90046, CA
Dr. Pekti
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
As the world gets more and more complicated so does our ability to manage its day to day stressors. While searching for a therapist I hope you realize that you are not alone. Many of us find ourselves battling depression, anxiety, existential angst, interpersonal problems, trauma, loss and other symptoms related to an increasingly technological society. I see myself as someone who can kindle a light as one navigates such gnarly terrain. My traditional face to face and remote on-line sessions offer, diagnosis, treatment, nonjudgmental support, confidentiality, encouragement, expertise and comfort while you explore new ways to improve the quality of your life.
As the world gets more and more complicated so does our ability to manage its day to day stressors. While searching for a therapist I hope you realize that you are not alone. Many of us find ourselves battling depression, anxiety, existential angst, interpersonal problems, trauma, loss and other symptoms related to an increasingly technological society. I see myself as someone who can kindle a light as one navigates such gnarly terrain. My traditional face to face and remote on-line sessions offer, diagnosis, treatment, nonjudgmental support, confidentiality, encouragement, expertise and comfort while you explore new ways to improve the quality of your life.
(646) 736-2239 View (646) 736-2239
Photo of Alison Roven, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Alison Roven
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Are you feeling stuck, or not quite sure how to move things forward? This feeling can apply to relationship, career, or just a general life experience. Are you struggling with a loss or a meaningful life transition? The decision to begin treatment is a gesture of courage and hope. Together, we will explore your concerns, and look for ways to navigate any obstacles or self-defeating patterns getting in the way of reaching life fulfillment and fuller potential. We work toward a more open, creative and authentic self experience-- self with self, self in relationship, self in the community/world.
Are you feeling stuck, or not quite sure how to move things forward? This feeling can apply to relationship, career, or just a general life experience. Are you struggling with a loss or a meaningful life transition? The decision to begin treatment is a gesture of courage and hope. Together, we will explore your concerns, and look for ways to navigate any obstacles or self-defeating patterns getting in the way of reaching life fulfillment and fuller potential. We work toward a more open, creative and authentic self experience-- self with self, self in relationship, self in the community/world.
(310) 845-6957 View (310) 845-6957
Photo of Ronna Hoffman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Ronna Hoffman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
I work with in a holistic way often in conjunction with other practitioners to help individuals with a variety of issues including; addictive behavior, illness, loss, trauma, mood, anxiey and panic, relationship and family issues, as well as in achieving goals in areas such as diet, sports and achievement.
I work in many ways depending on the unique situation of my clients. I find that working on both a conscious and subconscious level to be extremely precise and powerful in getting to the root of a problem, changing patterns and programming, letting go, facilitating a natural healing process, and replacing unhealthy with healthy ways of fulfilling certain needs, and achieving certain goals.
I work with in a holistic way often in conjunction with other practitioners to help individuals with a variety of issues including; addictive behavior, illness, loss, trauma, mood, anxiey and panic, relationship and family issues, as well as in achieving goals in areas such as diet, sports and achievement.
I work in many ways depending on the unique situation of my clients. I find that working on both a conscious and subconscious level to be extremely precise and powerful in getting to the root of a problem, changing patterns and programming, letting go, facilitating a natural healing process, and replacing unhealthy with healthy ways of fulfilling certain needs, and achieving certain goals.
(424) 224-9982 View (424) 224-9982
Photo of Savannah M Fine, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Savannah M Fine
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
My specialities include: Sex/Sexuality, Intimacy, Relationships, Chronic Pain/Chronic Illness, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Grief/Loss.
Hello! My name is Savannah M. Fine and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 139871 and a Certified Sex Therapist supporting human beings in the state of California. I am polyam, ENM, kink and LGBTQ+ affirming, and I work with individuals, partners, and families who are looking to form a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, and their communities. I understand that healing and growth looks different for each individual and hope to provide the support necessary for your mind, body, and soul.
My specialities include: Sex/Sexuality, Intimacy, Relationships, Chronic Pain/Chronic Illness, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Grief/Loss.
Hello! My name is Savannah M. Fine and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 139871 and a Certified Sex Therapist supporting human beings in the state of California. I am polyam, ENM, kink and LGBTQ+ affirming, and I work with individuals, partners, and families who are looking to form a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, and their communities. I understand that healing and growth looks different for each individual and hope to provide the support necessary for your mind, body, and soul.
(424) 404-8460 View (424) 404-8460
Photo of Ryan Page, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90046, CA
Ryan Page
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
I have expertise in helping individuals navigate depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addiction, LGBTQIA+ identity issues, body image, infidelity recovery, sexuality, obsessive-compulsive disorders, personality disorders, and eating disorders.
I specialize in helping individuals work through painful limitations to become more resilient, open-hearted, and self-understanding. My approach is empathetic and collaborative as a way to reach each person’s inherent strengths and develop greater emotional skills to navigate life’s complexities. Together, a therapeutic plan is designed that honors each individual’s emotional needs. My approach is creative, direct, and maintains caring engagement of each person's mind, body, and heart. In our work together, you'll learn how to effectively cope, establish boundaries, deepen relationships, and step into your truest self.
I have expertise in helping individuals navigate depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addiction, LGBTQIA+ identity issues, body image, infidelity recovery, sexuality, obsessive-compulsive disorders, personality disorders, and eating disorders.
I specialize in helping individuals work through painful limitations to become more resilient, open-hearted, and self-understanding. My approach is empathetic and collaborative as a way to reach each person’s inherent strengths and develop greater emotional skills to navigate life’s complexities. Together, a therapeutic plan is designed that honors each individual’s emotional needs. My approach is creative, direct, and maintains caring engagement of each person's mind, body, and heart. In our work together, you'll learn how to effectively cope, establish boundaries, deepen relationships, and step into your truest self.
(323) 403-0692 View (323) 403-0692
Photo of James 'jamie' Fortin, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
James 'jamie' Fortin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
I offer counseling for relationships, mood disorders, addiction, grief, life transitions, and empowerment.
I provide adults, adolescents, couples, and families with humanistic, client-centered services. I available for in-person session in Santa Barbara. Online appointments are also available for California residents. If you find yourself wanting more from your life, I will make sure that you have the tools, guidance, and inspiration that you need. I am a culturally compassionate clinician, and I welcome and celebrate diversity.
I offer counseling for relationships, mood disorders, addiction, grief, life transitions, and empowerment.
I provide adults, adolescents, couples, and families with humanistic, client-centered services. I available for in-person session in Santa Barbara. Online appointments are also available for California residents. If you find yourself wanting more from your life, I will make sure that you have the tools, guidance, and inspiration that you need. I am a culturally compassionate clinician, and I welcome and celebrate diversity.
(805) 953-7360 View (805) 953-7360
Photo of Paula Glashausser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
Paula Glashausser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I specialize in couples counseling and working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing difficult life transitions, interpersonal conflict, stress, anxiety, and grief.
Life can sometimes lead us to unexpected places. You’ve hit a bump in the road, and with the right support, you can overcome it. My name is Paula Glashausser and I'm here to support you, empower you, and help you discover your strengths. My goal is to meet you where you are in your journey of healing and help guide you in coping, personal growth, and making positive changes. I utilize a client-centered, strengths-based, nonjudgmental approach, with a focus on mindfulness. I strive to build a strong foundation with my clients and establish a trusting, safe, and comfortable environment where you can freely express yourself and grow.
I specialize in couples counseling and working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing difficult life transitions, interpersonal conflict, stress, anxiety, and grief.
Life can sometimes lead us to unexpected places. You’ve hit a bump in the road, and with the right support, you can overcome it. My name is Paula Glashausser and I'm here to support you, empower you, and help you discover your strengths. My goal is to meet you where you are in your journey of healing and help guide you in coping, personal growth, and making positive changes. I utilize a client-centered, strengths-based, nonjudgmental approach, with a focus on mindfulness. I strive to build a strong foundation with my clients and establish a trusting, safe, and comfortable environment where you can freely express yourself and grow.
(310) 943-2889 View (310) 943-2889
Photo of Diem M. Nguyen, Psy.D., Psychologist in 90046, CA
Diem M. Nguyen, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90046  (Online Only)
People thrive when they feel a sense of purpose and connection to themselves and others. Most people come to see me when something is missing from their lives, be it purpose, connection, or both. Depression and/or anxiety may be at work. Anger or grief could consume more of their time and focus. Others feel stagnant, confused, expressing a lack of motivation and self-worth. Finding a safe place to explore your current struggles is possible in therapy. To achieve the meaningful changes you desire, seeking professional help is an effective option.
People thrive when they feel a sense of purpose and connection to themselves and others. Most people come to see me when something is missing from their lives, be it purpose, connection, or both. Depression and/or anxiety may be at work. Anger or grief could consume more of their time and focus. Others feel stagnant, confused, expressing a lack of motivation and self-worth. Finding a safe place to explore your current struggles is possible in therapy. To achieve the meaningful changes you desire, seeking professional help is an effective option.
(323) 379-0827 View (323) 379-0827
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.