Photo of Holly A Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91107, CA
Holly A Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
I work with people experiencing many challenges including: generalized anxiety, health/illness anxiety, panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, grief, disenfranchised grief, difficult childhoods, relational trauma, ADHD. I can help you understand and modify what symptoms you're experiencing. Also, I can help you better understand why you behave they way you do in relationships, and help you adjust your patterns (e.g. codependence/people pleasing, being distant or hyper-independent, or, being overly controlling) that aren't serving you anymore. I work best with people who are interested in deep self exploration.
I work with people experiencing many challenges including: generalized anxiety, health/illness anxiety, panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, grief, disenfranchised grief, difficult childhoods, relational trauma, ADHD. I can help you understand and modify what symptoms you're experiencing. Also, I can help you better understand why you behave they way you do in relationships, and help you adjust your patterns (e.g. codependence/people pleasing, being distant or hyper-independent, or, being overly controlling) that aren't serving you anymore. I work best with people who are interested in deep self exploration.
(626) 653-4036 View (626) 653-4036
Photo of Vanessa Espinosa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91107, CA
Vanessa Espinosa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
Specialties include, but are not limited to working with women, depression/anxiety, trauma, and loss.
Therapy is a unique opportunity for exploration and understanding of one's own story, and can facilitate healing and transformation during trying times. In my practice, I work collaboratively with clients to uncover and strengthen their inner wisdom, while teaching them skills needed to maneuver through life's challenges, changes and transitions. I provide a supportive and hope-filled environment that allows for a journey of self-discovery, and helps to foster self-love, self-compassion, and acceptance.
Specialties include, but are not limited to working with women, depression/anxiety, trauma, and loss.
Therapy is a unique opportunity for exploration and understanding of one's own story, and can facilitate healing and transformation during trying times. In my practice, I work collaboratively with clients to uncover and strengthen their inner wisdom, while teaching them skills needed to maneuver through life's challenges, changes and transitions. I provide a supportive and hope-filled environment that allows for a journey of self-discovery, and helps to foster self-love, self-compassion, and acceptance.
(562) 551-6164 View (562) 551-6164
Photo of Christine Kay Wong, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
Christine Kay Wong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
I specialize in supporting burnout, cultural stress, grief, trauma, and stress management.
Have you hit a point where life's demands leave you drained and empty —despite following all the "right" steps for a fulfilling life? Are you going through the motions, lacking passion, and being shaped by others' expectations? Have you lost touch with your true self? Is confidence replaced by self-doubt and an inner voice whispers inadequacy? Professional support can ease the struggle toward your dream life in a world expecting self-navigation. Therapy with me is like a deep conversation with a friend.
I specialize in supporting burnout, cultural stress, grief, trauma, and stress management.
Have you hit a point where life's demands leave you drained and empty —despite following all the "right" steps for a fulfilling life? Are you going through the motions, lacking passion, and being shaped by others' expectations? Have you lost touch with your true self? Is confidence replaced by self-doubt and an inner voice whispers inadequacy? Professional support can ease the struggle toward your dream life in a world expecting self-navigation. Therapy with me is like a deep conversation with a friend.
(626) 822-8853 View (626) 822-8853
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 Dr. Adela Gharabeki, Psychologist in 91107, CA
Dr. Adela Gharabeki
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
My specialty areas include trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, and stress management.
Are you facing life's complexities and challenges? I'm here to help. As a therapist, I support clients in addressing a range of issues—whether they are current or rooted in the past. I firmly believe that the relationship we have with ourselves is foundational to improving the quality of our lives. That is why I work with clients in helping them explore aspects of themselves that may be interfering with their growth and development. Oftentimes this can manifest in the form of unhelpful behaviors, unhealthy ways of coping, or clinical disorders. Whatever it may look like, we can work through it together.
My specialty areas include trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, and stress management.
Are you facing life's complexities and challenges? I'm here to help. As a therapist, I support clients in addressing a range of issues—whether they are current or rooted in the past. I firmly believe that the relationship we have with ourselves is foundational to improving the quality of our lives. That is why I work with clients in helping them explore aspects of themselves that may be interfering with their growth and development. Oftentimes this can manifest in the form of unhelpful behaviors, unhealthy ways of coping, or clinical disorders. Whatever it may look like, we can work through it together.
(626) 247-3248 View (626) 247-3248
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 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 Lacy Tannous, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 91107, CA
Lacy Tannous
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
Hi there! I'm Lacy. I provide therapy for cycle-breakers. Who is a cycle breaker, you ask? A cycle-breaker refers to anyone consciously choosing to change harmful patterns in themselves and their relationships. Common patterns I address in my practice include fostering independence, processing grief, increasing self-esteem and self-compassion, and healing from abusive behavior. If you know something needs to change for the better in yourself and your relationships but aren’t sure how to start, let’s talk.
Hi there! I'm Lacy. I provide therapy for cycle-breakers. Who is a cycle breaker, you ask? A cycle-breaker refers to anyone consciously choosing to change harmful patterns in themselves and their relationships. Common patterns I address in my practice include fostering independence, processing grief, increasing self-esteem and self-compassion, and healing from abusive behavior. If you know something needs to change for the better in yourself and your relationships but aren’t sure how to start, let’s talk.
(626) 238-0547 View (626) 238-0547
Photo of Denise Seidman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
Denise Seidman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
I also commonly help my clients process grief and loss, as well as work with elders as aging impacts their quality of life.
My name is Denise Seidman. I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 22 years. I use an integrative approach to therapy to see what fits my clients best. My focus areas of practice include anxiety and depression, relationship issues, grief, life transitions, separation and divorce, co-parenting, and work-related issues. I typically work with clients who are experiencing major life transitions that impact their relationships with loved ones or colleagues in their work environment. I help my clients work through depression and/or anxiety related to their life stressors.
I also commonly help my clients process grief and loss, as well as work with elders as aging impacts their quality of life.
My name is Denise Seidman. I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 22 years. I use an integrative approach to therapy to see what fits my clients best. My focus areas of practice include anxiety and depression, relationship issues, grief, life transitions, separation and divorce, co-parenting, and work-related issues. I typically work with clients who are experiencing major life transitions that impact their relationships with loved ones or colleagues in their work environment. I help my clients work through depression and/or anxiety related to their life stressors.
(760) 313-7201 View (760) 313-7201
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 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 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 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 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 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 Jennifer Fuentes, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 91107, CA
Jennifer Fuentes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Couples tend to be drawn to each other's uniqueness and differences when they first meet. Differences can ignite an initial spark and a sense of excitement in a relationship. Challenges and potential disconnections can arise from the same differences that initially sparked attraction over time. Different communication styles, cultural backgrounds, or approaches to handling stress and conflict can lead to tension.
Couples tend to be drawn to each other's uniqueness and differences when they first meet. Differences can ignite an initial spark and a sense of excitement in a relationship. Challenges and potential disconnections can arise from the same differences that initially sparked attraction over time. Different communication styles, cultural backgrounds, or approaches to handling stress and conflict can lead to tension.
(626) 790-2960 View (626) 790-2960
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 Connie V Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91107, CA
Connie V Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT,
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Humorist, Mark Twain once wrote, "I've had a lot of worries in my life, most of which never happened." Left unchecked, fear-based thinking shapes reality and impedes potential and growth. The unknown and mixed messages surrounding the pandemic has reinforced this mindset and may have left you with perpetual feelings of sadness, uncertainty and doubt. The first step of our journey together is establishing a relationship built upon trust, respect, and safety. Through shared conversation, mindfulness, and self-regulating techniques, we create a bond that honors your unique story and circumstance.
Humorist, Mark Twain once wrote, "I've had a lot of worries in my life, most of which never happened." Left unchecked, fear-based thinking shapes reality and impedes potential and growth. The unknown and mixed messages surrounding the pandemic has reinforced this mindset and may have left you with perpetual feelings of sadness, uncertainty and doubt. The first step of our journey together is establishing a relationship built upon trust, respect, and safety. Through shared conversation, mindfulness, and self-regulating techniques, we create a bond that honors your unique story and circumstance.
(626) 790-5679 View (626) 790-5679
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.