Photo of Aibina Jankly, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
Aibina Jankly
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
These practices are targeting depression, anxiety, grief and loss, codependency, trauma & PTSD, immigration, relationship issues, and many others.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who has worked extensively with individuals, couples, and families. My approach to psychotherapy is to provide a safe space that is empathic, genuine, and collaborative which leads to growth and a fulfilling life. There are moments when problems exist, and we all may struggle at times to manage the difficulties. I also believe that every individual has strengths to overcome obstacles. My role, as your therapist, is to walk alongside you on your journey of growth and help you discover your inner strengths and power to live a fulfilling life.
These practices are targeting depression, anxiety, grief and loss, codependency, trauma & PTSD, immigration, relationship issues, and many others.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who has worked extensively with individuals, couples, and families. My approach to psychotherapy is to provide a safe space that is empathic, genuine, and collaborative which leads to growth and a fulfilling life. There are moments when problems exist, and we all may struggle at times to manage the difficulties. I also believe that every individual has strengths to overcome obstacles. My role, as your therapist, is to walk alongside you on your journey of growth and help you discover your inner strengths and power to live a fulfilling life.
(747) 231-3280 View (747) 231-3280
Photo of Dr. Joung-Woo John Kim, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 91107, CA
Dr. Joung-Woo John Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, PsyD, PhD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Mental health is as important as physical health. So if you need professional help with your mind, just as you would seek a doctor for your physical health, you need to see a mental health therapist. John is passionate about working with individuals and couples on mental issues including stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, disconnection with self and others, hopelessness, abandonment, rejection, betrayal, losses/grief, self value and (pre)marital issues. I am also a Prepare/Enrich Facilitator and can help couple get the relationship analyzed across 14 dimensions including communication, finance, sex, parenting, religion, etc.
Mental health is as important as physical health. So if you need professional help with your mind, just as you would seek a doctor for your physical health, you need to see a mental health therapist. John is passionate about working with individuals and couples on mental issues including stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, disconnection with self and others, hopelessness, abandonment, rejection, betrayal, losses/grief, self value and (pre)marital issues. I am also a Prepare/Enrich Facilitator and can help couple get the relationship analyzed across 14 dimensions including communication, finance, sex, parenting, religion, etc.
(626) 900-0964 View (626) 900-0964
Photo of Lisa LANSING, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91107, CA
Lisa LANSING
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Utilizing a strengths based approach, together we can create positive change in areas such as: self-esteem, healthy boundaries, overcoming depression and anxiety, assertiveness, communication, anger management, grief, as well as working on parenting issues.
Now accepting new clients for telehealth or outdoor sessions. "Ultimately it is the quality of our relationships that will determine the quality of our lives" - Esther Perel. Our relationships are everything. When our connections with each are not what we hope for, it is natural to feel unsteady in the world or even sad or anxious. We often get in our own way from finding and maintaining our deepest connections with those we love. Looking to our past can give us clues to our future and how to "live our best lives" (I think Oprah coined that one!). I offer telehealth sessions as well as outdoor sessions in a local park TBD.
Utilizing a strengths based approach, together we can create positive change in areas such as: self-esteem, healthy boundaries, overcoming depression and anxiety, assertiveness, communication, anger management, grief, as well as working on parenting issues.
Now accepting new clients for telehealth or outdoor sessions. "Ultimately it is the quality of our relationships that will determine the quality of our lives" - Esther Perel. Our relationships are everything. When our connections with each are not what we hope for, it is natural to feel unsteady in the world or even sad or anxious. We often get in our own way from finding and maintaining our deepest connections with those we love. Looking to our past can give us clues to our future and how to "live our best lives" (I think Oprah coined that one!). I offer telehealth sessions as well as outdoor sessions in a local park TBD.
(626) 507-3345 View (626) 507-3345
Photo of Desiree B. Villa, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 91107, CA
Desiree B. Villa
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Sometimes life can be like standing in a garden filled with weeds that are 20 feet tall leading you to feel stuck, suffocated, and lonely. It can be hard to know where to start and how to make your way through the weeds. Depression and anxiety can often make us feel the same way. What are the current weeds in your life? Grief? Anxiety? Dating? Relationship conflicts?
Sometimes life can be like standing in a garden filled with weeds that are 20 feet tall leading you to feel stuck, suffocated, and lonely. It can be hard to know where to start and how to make your way through the weeds. Depression and anxiety can often make us feel the same way. What are the current weeds in your life? Grief? Anxiety? Dating? Relationship conflicts?
(626) 669-4881 x164 View (626) 669-4881 x164
Photo of Michael E Farinha, Psychologist in 91107, CA
Michael E Farinha
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
As your psychologist/therapist I will help you in anyway that I can. I will provide you a supportive and comforting environment in which you will able to share and process your feelings. We will also look at ways that we can improve your psychological health and well-being by applying cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, as well as recovery, spirituality, and grief and loss issues. We will identify any illnesses and issues, and will work towards full recovery. I see individuals, couples and families for psychotherapy, intervention and consultation. I specialize in mood, anxiety, addictive and relationship disorders.
As your psychologist/therapist I will help you in anyway that I can. I will provide you a supportive and comforting environment in which you will able to share and process your feelings. We will also look at ways that we can improve your psychological health and well-being by applying cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, as well as recovery, spirituality, and grief and loss issues. We will identify any illnesses and issues, and will work towards full recovery. I see individuals, couples and families for psychotherapy, intervention and consultation. I specialize in mood, anxiety, addictive and relationship disorders.
(626) 325-0766 View (626) 325-0766
Photo of Daniel Fulton, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
Daniel Fulton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
Welcome. Are you struggling in your relationship? Do you feel alone, frustrated, or overwhelmed? Perhaps distance, criticism, or conflict have taken over and you no longer feel connected to yourself or your partner(s). You may worry that confusion, anger, grief, and loneliness are the new normal in your life. Perhaps you feel something special has been lost, and you want to find it again. Whether you are going through a major change like having a baby, recovering from a betrayal or loss, or simply facing the challenges of everyday life, you may find yourself longing for a feeling of wholehearted connection and belonging.
Welcome. Are you struggling in your relationship? Do you feel alone, frustrated, or overwhelmed? Perhaps distance, criticism, or conflict have taken over and you no longer feel connected to yourself or your partner(s). You may worry that confusion, anger, grief, and loneliness are the new normal in your life. Perhaps you feel something special has been lost, and you want to find it again. Whether you are going through a major change like having a baby, recovering from a betrayal or loss, or simply facing the challenges of everyday life, you may find yourself longing for a feeling of wholehearted connection and belonging.
(626) 314-6722 View (626) 314-6722
Photo of Naala Richards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91107, CA
Naala Richards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Hello. My name is Naala Richards. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both California and Colorado. I hope to be your person amidst this busy life, who holds space for you, as you tend to pain, grief, sadness, anxiety, anger, self-doubt, and any other thoughts and feelings. My goal is to be a nonjudgmental support and guide as you move towards wholeness and healing. I work with teenagers and adults. I have specific experience working with grief, loss, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and supporting those living with chronic health issues.
Hello. My name is Naala Richards. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both California and Colorado. I hope to be your person amidst this busy life, who holds space for you, as you tend to pain, grief, sadness, anxiety, anger, self-doubt, and any other thoughts and feelings. My goal is to be a nonjudgmental support and guide as you move towards wholeness and healing. I work with teenagers and adults. I have specific experience working with grief, loss, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and supporting those living with chronic health issues.
(442) 250-4020 View (442) 250-4020
Photo of Charles Scott Dewell, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
Charles Scott Dewell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
You may be feeling overwhelmed by a recent relationship breakup, the loss of a loved one, or the loss of a job.
Charles Dewell, M.A., LMFT I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adult individuals and couples, helping them navigate their relationship, career and personal issues. My mission is to provide a safe refuge where my clients feel understood and encouraged to persevere through the ebb and flow of life's challenges.
You may be feeling overwhelmed by a recent relationship breakup, the loss of a loved one, or the loss of a job.
Charles Dewell, M.A., LMFT I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adult individuals and couples, helping them navigate their relationship, career and personal issues. My mission is to provide a safe refuge where my clients feel understood and encouraged to persevere through the ebb and flow of life's challenges.
(310) 773-3504 View (310) 773-3504
Photo of La Cresheia Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
La Cresheia Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
La Cresheia Lee, MA MFT, LMFT I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California, with over 12 years of experience (combined licensed and intern hours), and I hold BA degrees in Psychology and Africana Studies. I have worked with diverse clients experiencing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, cultural & racial identity, stress management, and grief and loss. I have also helped many clients who have experienced emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, and those struggling with suicide ideation and co-occurring disorders.
La Cresheia Lee, MA MFT, LMFT I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California, with over 12 years of experience (combined licensed and intern hours), and I hold BA degrees in Psychology and Africana Studies. I have worked with diverse clients experiencing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, cultural & racial identity, stress management, and grief and loss. I have also helped many clients who have experienced emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, and those struggling with suicide ideation and co-occurring disorders.
(820) 204-0541 View (820) 204-0541
Photo of Micaela Flores, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91107, CA
Micaela Flores
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
My specialties include sexual abuse, childhood trauma, marriage crisis, relational problems, life transitions, children, trauma treatment, crisis intervention, grief and loss, blended families, adoption and foster care, and parenting issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have worked with individuals, children, adolescents, couples, and families. I believe that through collaborative work together, there is hope for changing behaviors, beliefs, and conflicts that are impeding you from having the quality of life you desire. I strive to provide an environment that is nurturing, open, and safe for you to process and grow, improving your life and level of functioning.
My specialties include sexual abuse, childhood trauma, marriage crisis, relational problems, life transitions, children, trauma treatment, crisis intervention, grief and loss, blended families, adoption and foster care, and parenting issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have worked with individuals, children, adolescents, couples, and families. I believe that through collaborative work together, there is hope for changing behaviors, beliefs, and conflicts that are impeding you from having the quality of life you desire. I strive to provide an environment that is nurturing, open, and safe for you to process and grow, improving your life and level of functioning.
(626) 587-2087 View (626) 587-2087
Photo of Kendra Valdez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91107, CA
Kendra Valdez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
I treat trauma, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, recovery from abuse/addiction, relationships, phase of life and gender/sexuality hardships.
Therapy is a delicate art and a science. Finding the right therapist is important. The connection by an understanding, intuitive professional, someone with wisdom and effectiveness, who also respects the time and the cost of your investment is valuable. I use an attachment-focused orientation, and tools from EMDR, Ego State Theory, CBT, 12-step recovery model, and other modalities. I have enjoyed a rich 25-year career as a trauma informed specialist. I have supervised and directed programs in public and non-profit sectors. Adoption is my specialty, as well as work with teens, young adults and families.
I treat trauma, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, recovery from abuse/addiction, relationships, phase of life and gender/sexuality hardships.
Therapy is a delicate art and a science. Finding the right therapist is important. The connection by an understanding, intuitive professional, someone with wisdom and effectiveness, who also respects the time and the cost of your investment is valuable. I use an attachment-focused orientation, and tools from EMDR, Ego State Theory, CBT, 12-step recovery model, and other modalities. I have enjoyed a rich 25-year career as a trauma informed specialist. I have supervised and directed programs in public and non-profit sectors. Adoption is my specialty, as well as work with teens, young adults and families.
(818) 322-4082 View (818) 322-4082
Photo of Mary Aroyan, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
Mary Aroyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
My practice provides psychotherapy and crisis intervention assessing a spectrum of mental health issues, mainly focused on: depression, anxiety, domestic violence, grief, trauma, and abuse.
CHANGE! Does something need to change? Are you overwhelmed, sad, anxious, or unsure of what's going on? There's hope! You're already on the right track; hardest step is to admit you need help. All individuals are capable of change and therapy can bring new insight to the changes that you want to see within yourself, relationships and other sectors of your life. I am here to provide you with tools and coping skills to accomplish that change in a safe and relaxing environment set at a comfortable pace to ease the process that can often be difficult.
My practice provides psychotherapy and crisis intervention assessing a spectrum of mental health issues, mainly focused on: depression, anxiety, domestic violence, grief, trauma, and abuse.
CHANGE! Does something need to change? Are you overwhelmed, sad, anxious, or unsure of what's going on? There's hope! You're already on the right track; hardest step is to admit you need help. All individuals are capable of change and therapy can bring new insight to the changes that you want to see within yourself, relationships and other sectors of your life. I am here to provide you with tools and coping skills to accomplish that change in a safe and relaxing environment set at a comfortable pace to ease the process that can often be difficult.
(323) 746-1189 View (323) 746-1189
Photo of Jacquelyn Toth, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
Jacquelyn Toth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
Are you feeling anxious or stressed and find it hard to get out of your head? Do you feel consumed with worry? Perhaps you feel stuck in a sad place from a past loss or a present difficulty or feel little hope for the future. These feelings can cause us to isolate and feel misunderstood by others. Many times, people feel beaten down by the world and end up turning their experiences inward, feeding a harsh self-critic who makes us doubt or judge ourselves, taking us away from the power of our inner resources. When we feel disconnected to ourselves, it is harder to build trust to connect to others and the larger world.
Are you feeling anxious or stressed and find it hard to get out of your head? Do you feel consumed with worry? Perhaps you feel stuck in a sad place from a past loss or a present difficulty or feel little hope for the future. These feelings can cause us to isolate and feel misunderstood by others. Many times, people feel beaten down by the world and end up turning their experiences inward, feeding a harsh self-critic who makes us doubt or judge ourselves, taking us away from the power of our inner resources. When we feel disconnected to ourselves, it is harder to build trust to connect to others and the larger world.
(805) 296-7072 View (805) 296-7072
Photo of Shir Shanun, Psychologist in 91107, CA
Shir Shanun
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
I work with addiction recovery, loss, personality disorders, psychosis, bi-polar, depression, PTSD, dissociation, anxiety and dual diagnosis.
When we change ourselves we create change in our life and relationships. Therapy is a journey of self discovery to develop intimacy and create meaning in life and relationships. Gain new understanding and fulfillment. Through exploration of your past and present I will help you develop nurturing relationships with others and with your empathetic genuine self; connect with playfulness and creativity; understand repetition in your life; discover the unconscious role in your decisions ; experience intimacy and alleviate depression and anxiety as we transform suffering into growth. More about me at https://www.Shir Shanun psyd.com
I work with addiction recovery, loss, personality disorders, psychosis, bi-polar, depression, PTSD, dissociation, anxiety and dual diagnosis.
When we change ourselves we create change in our life and relationships. Therapy is a journey of self discovery to develop intimacy and create meaning in life and relationships. Gain new understanding and fulfillment. Through exploration of your past and present I will help you develop nurturing relationships with others and with your empathetic genuine self; connect with playfulness and creativity; understand repetition in your life; discover the unconscious role in your decisions ; experience intimacy and alleviate depression and anxiety as we transform suffering into growth. More about me at https://www.Shir Shanun psyd.com
(626) 376-4994 View (626) 376-4994
Photo of James J De Santis, Psychologist in 91107, CA
James J De Santis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
A life issues consultant and therapist, I have expertise in dealing with anxiety, depression, stress & burn-out, relationship formation difficulties, parenting skills, learning disabilities, attention deficits, trauma, grief & loss, relationship & career transitions, chemical dependency & codependency.
I tend to be most helpful to intense, high-functioning adults struggling with mood or anxiety symptoms or significant life transitions who are striving toward personal achievement, balance between work and relationships, and a sense of well-being. I may draw on various approaches according to the problem you are dealing with and my experience with what may benefit you. These include cognitive, psychodynamic, interpersonal, and psychoeducational approaches. I may propose different ways of looking at or handling situations. I may suggest in-between session reading or homework assignments.
A life issues consultant and therapist, I have expertise in dealing with anxiety, depression, stress & burn-out, relationship formation difficulties, parenting skills, learning disabilities, attention deficits, trauma, grief & loss, relationship & career transitions, chemical dependency & codependency.
I tend to be most helpful to intense, high-functioning adults struggling with mood or anxiety symptoms or significant life transitions who are striving toward personal achievement, balance between work and relationships, and a sense of well-being. I may draw on various approaches according to the problem you are dealing with and my experience with what may benefit you. These include cognitive, psychodynamic, interpersonal, and psychoeducational approaches. I may propose different ways of looking at or handling situations. I may suggest in-between session reading or homework assignments.
(818) 551-1714 View (818) 551-1714
Photo of Jeannette Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91107, CA
Jeannette Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Jeannette Martin, DBE, MBE, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Doctor of Bioethics practicing psychotherapy in Sierra Madre. I am Masters and Doctoral trained in Bioethics at Loyola Chicago and completed an additional Masters in Social Work and psychotherapy training at USC. I am experienced in treating depression and anxiety, grief and loss, those with chronic illness, and working with challenging family systems.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Doctor of Bioethics practicing psychotherapy in Sierra Madre. I am Masters and Doctoral trained in Bioethics at Loyola Chicago and completed an additional Masters in Social Work and psychotherapy training at USC. I am experienced in treating depression and anxiety, grief and loss, those with chronic illness, and working with challenging family systems.
(626) 466-3143 View (626) 466-3143
Photo of Kelly Aguirre, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
Kelly Aguirre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
Are you finding the transition into motherhood challenging or overwhelming? Whether it be infertility, miscarriage, peri-natal/postpartum depression and anxiety, or simply the challenges of maintaining a sense of self as you care for your family, the most important thing you can do is seek support through this transitional time of your life. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside my clients through each stage of transition. Whether it be a new job, a child, a relationship, or the loss associated with life transitions, I provide a safe space to explore one's feelings and get unstuck.
Are you finding the transition into motherhood challenging or overwhelming? Whether it be infertility, miscarriage, peri-natal/postpartum depression and anxiety, or simply the challenges of maintaining a sense of self as you care for your family, the most important thing you can do is seek support through this transitional time of your life. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside my clients through each stage of transition. Whether it be a new job, a child, a relationship, or the loss associated with life transitions, I provide a safe space to explore one's feelings and get unstuck.
(626) 275-2872 View (626) 275-2872
Photo of Liz Phelan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91107, CA
Liz Phelan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Hi! My name is Liz Phelan, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I am based in Sacramento, CA, and work with clients statewide via telehealth. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and stress using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Supportive Therapy to help in navigating feelings and helping you to feeling better. In my practice, I mainly work with adults who have experienced trauma, are struggling with relationship issues or life transitions. This often is exhibited through feelings of depression, anxiety, and being overwhelmed.
Hi! My name is Liz Phelan, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I am based in Sacramento, CA, and work with clients statewide via telehealth. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and stress using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Supportive Therapy to help in navigating feelings and helping you to feeling better. In my practice, I mainly work with adults who have experienced trauma, are struggling with relationship issues or life transitions. This often is exhibited through feelings of depression, anxiety, and being overwhelmed.
(951) 383-2071 View (951) 383-2071
Photo of Pamela Coleman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
Pamela Coleman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
My name is Pamela Coleman, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 24 years of experience in the mental health field. My approach to therapy is client-entered, and my focus areas are adults of all ages, adolescents, couples, and families. My overall approach is eclectic, but I hold an attachment theory-based perspective. I am trauma-informed and trauma-responsive. My focus has been on clients that have experienced differing levels of trauma and, as a result, are having difficulty functioning in some area(s) of their life. This may be demonstrated as anxiety, avoidance, depression, or many other ways.
My name is Pamela Coleman, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 24 years of experience in the mental health field. My approach to therapy is client-entered, and my focus areas are adults of all ages, adolescents, couples, and families. My overall approach is eclectic, but I hold an attachment theory-based perspective. I am trauma-informed and trauma-responsive. My focus has been on clients that have experienced differing levels of trauma and, as a result, are having difficulty functioning in some area(s) of their life. This may be demonstrated as anxiety, avoidance, depression, or many other ways.
(951) 379-3477 View (951) 379-3477
Photo of Carole Lewis Psychotherapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91107, CA
Carole Lewis Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Your friends and family see you as having it all together but on the inside you are feeling unsure/anxious about yourself, your relationships and your career. This self doubt and unhappiness are taking up a lot of space in your daily life and interfering with you being the best version of yourself. It's normal to feel this way sometimes but you don't have to navigate through this alone! Starting therapy is making a positive commitment to yourself.
Your friends and family see you as having it all together but on the inside you are feeling unsure/anxious about yourself, your relationships and your career. This self doubt and unhappiness are taking up a lot of space in your daily life and interfering with you being the best version of yourself. It's normal to feel this way sometimes but you don't have to navigate through this alone! Starting therapy is making a positive commitment to yourself.
(323) 784-0988 View (323) 784-0988
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.