Grief Therapists in Bodega, CA

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Photo of Debra Melmon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bodega, CA
Debra Melmon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sebastopol, CA 95472
Grief and loss is my specialty.
Therapy is the collaborative interaction between client and practitioner, both an art and a science. My practice is goal oriented and active, an eclectic blend of cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and mindfulness orientations customized to the unique needs of the client. Whether you are young or old, suffer from depression and anxiety or seeking clarity, I offer myself as a compassionate professional of self exploration.
Grief and loss is my specialty.
Therapy is the collaborative interaction between client and practitioner, both an art and a science. My practice is goal oriented and active, an eclectic blend of cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and mindfulness orientations customized to the unique needs of the client. Whether you are young or old, suffer from depression and anxiety or seeking clarity, I offer myself as a compassionate professional of self exploration.
(650) 727-9974 View (650) 727-9974
Photo of Janine Orri (Hoffman Reyes), Marriage & Family Therapist in Bodega, CA
Janine Orri (Hoffman Reyes)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sebastopol, CA 95473  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychotherapist and former hospice grief counselor. I am founder of The Way Through - Grief and Loss Services, in Sebastopol, CA. I offer a multi-dimensional approach to clients facing grief and loss life situations. If you or someone you know is having difficulty with a divorce, separation, death or dying of loved one, or loss of life situation we can help you find The Way Through. Services include crisis intervention, biopsychosocial assessment, grief counseling, EMDR treatment, PTSD treatment, support groups and couples counseling. We also work with loss through drug and alcohol addiction and recovery, providing support and community resources.
I am a licensed psychotherapist and former hospice grief counselor. I am founder of The Way Through - Grief and Loss Services, in Sebastopol, CA. I offer a multi-dimensional approach to clients facing grief and loss life situations. If you or someone you know is having difficulty with a divorce, separation, death or dying of loved one, or loss of life situation we can help you find The Way Through. Services include crisis intervention, biopsychosocial assessment, grief counseling, EMDR treatment, PTSD treatment, support groups and couples counseling. We also work with loss through drug and alcohol addiction and recovery, providing support and community resources.
(707) 419-3322 View (707) 419-3322
Photo of Judith Blackbird Joinville, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bodega, CA
Judith Blackbird Joinville
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472  (Online Only)
I have had advanced training in EMDR, Brainspotting and Biofeedback, all of which utilize mind/body strategies for reactions that result from extreme grief and traumatic events including those from childhood.
When you are searching for a therapist the many choices may be confusing. There are so many different ways to describe a safe place where one can explore options, learn to communicate more effectively, debrief from previous hurts, exploitations or resolve a current crisis. Achieving a higher standard of life through self awareness and for some, banishing the self talk of shame and low self esteem which brings many to seek help. As your therapist, I incorporate my own personal work, training and supervison and above all, the experience of working with clients for the past 30 years.
I have had advanced training in EMDR, Brainspotting and Biofeedback, all of which utilize mind/body strategies for reactions that result from extreme grief and traumatic events including those from childhood.
When you are searching for a therapist the many choices may be confusing. There are so many different ways to describe a safe place where one can explore options, learn to communicate more effectively, debrief from previous hurts, exploitations or resolve a current crisis. Achieving a higher standard of life through self awareness and for some, banishing the self talk of shame and low self esteem which brings many to seek help. As your therapist, I incorporate my own personal work, training and supervison and above all, the experience of working with clients for the past 30 years.
(707) 633-4103 View (707) 633-4103
Photo of Jessica Peters Malmberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bodega, CA
Jessica Peters Malmberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sebastopol, CA 95472
I bring a soul-oriented approach to working with grief and trauma, tending the places of growth and love that loss brings us.
I offer a relational, insightful, effective approach to therapy, aiming to help you find a sense of belonging and aliveness in the world. I welcome those who grieve, working with you to find the first hard steps after life has come undone, and with you as you learn to see in the dark. So often grief and trauma intertwine, and I offer help with the anxiety, vigilance, sleep problems, and relationship stress that often come with overwhelming experiences of trauma. Working with Brainspotting to access these places of trauma, and process them with careful attunement, I can help bring room for new perspectives and grounding in life.
I bring a soul-oriented approach to working with grief and trauma, tending the places of growth and love that loss brings us.
I offer a relational, insightful, effective approach to therapy, aiming to help you find a sense of belonging and aliveness in the world. I welcome those who grieve, working with you to find the first hard steps after life has come undone, and with you as you learn to see in the dark. So often grief and trauma intertwine, and I offer help with the anxiety, vigilance, sleep problems, and relationship stress that often come with overwhelming experiences of trauma. Working with Brainspotting to access these places of trauma, and process them with careful attunement, I can help bring room for new perspectives and grounding in life.
(707) 587-2223 View (707) 587-2223
Photo of Skye Ashley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bodega, CA
Skye Ashley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472
Welcoming new clients. You don't have to go it alone. Finding the right person to walk alongside you during these extraordinary times can provide you with a deep sense of connection, guidance, and support. With a wealth of experience in working with grief/loss, trauma, and life transitions, my approach is warm and compassionate, drawing from various learned modalities. I integrate mindfulness, trauma-informed care, somatics, and curiosity to create a unique and effective therapeutic experience.
Welcoming new clients. You don't have to go it alone. Finding the right person to walk alongside you during these extraordinary times can provide you with a deep sense of connection, guidance, and support. With a wealth of experience in working with grief/loss, trauma, and life transitions, my approach is warm and compassionate, drawing from various learned modalities. I integrate mindfulness, trauma-informed care, somatics, and curiosity to create a unique and effective therapeutic experience.
(707) 872-1405 View (707) 872-1405
Photo of Linda L Kinzler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bodega, CA
Linda L Kinzler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472
One of my life experiences that led me into the work I do was being widowed at the age of 41 with 2 young children, preceded by “walking with” my husband through his 2½ years of medical issues which resulted in his death due to leukemia—a diagnosis we had gotten wrong earlier.
My 35 years of experience have entailed providing both psychotherapeutic counseling as well as case management support to disabled & elderly clients, Hospice & dialysis social work. I work with adults of all ages. Each decade has its own challenges. Anxiety, depression, addictions, insecurities, relational issues, health and other issues of all kinds can hamper us at any age. For my clients, I love to use my heart, experience, training & faith practices to create a safe place and provide support to overcome what’s holding them back---to help empower them to reach the fullness, freedom and joy of their own lives and relationships.
One of my life experiences that led me into the work I do was being widowed at the age of 41 with 2 young children, preceded by “walking with” my husband through his 2½ years of medical issues which resulted in his death due to leukemia—a diagnosis we had gotten wrong earlier.
My 35 years of experience have entailed providing both psychotherapeutic counseling as well as case management support to disabled & elderly clients, Hospice & dialysis social work. I work with adults of all ages. Each decade has its own challenges. Anxiety, depression, addictions, insecurities, relational issues, health and other issues of all kinds can hamper us at any age. For my clients, I love to use my heart, experience, training & faith practices to create a safe place and provide support to overcome what’s holding them back---to help empower them to reach the fullness, freedom and joy of their own lives and relationships.
(707) 600-6541 View (707) 600-6541
Photo of Caitlin West, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bodega, CA
Caitlin West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472  (Online Only)
Is a chronic or serious illness impacting your life? Are you struggling with anxiety, adjustment to illness, uncertainty, role changes, loss, or depression? Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or isolated in your experience? I can help you. I help clients navigate the impact that illness has on all areas of their lives. Please note that I am part of the Compassionate Integrative Counseling Group. Our group consists of three seasoned therapists who specialize in working with patients, caregivers, and loved ones around the complexities of serious illness.
Is a chronic or serious illness impacting your life? Are you struggling with anxiety, adjustment to illness, uncertainty, role changes, loss, or depression? Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or isolated in your experience? I can help you. I help clients navigate the impact that illness has on all areas of their lives. Please note that I am part of the Compassionate Integrative Counseling Group. Our group consists of three seasoned therapists who specialize in working with patients, caregivers, and loved ones around the complexities of serious illness.
(707) 634-8419 View (707) 634-8419
Photo of Rachel Jaffe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bodega, CA
Rachel Jaffe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, #105946
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Graton, CA 95444  (Online Only)
I work within a social justice lens and with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, relationship challenges including divorce and separation, and life transitions.
Compassionate psychotherapy for adults, adolescents, children, and families. My approach is client-centered and collaborative. I believe in the innate wisdom of every individual, and utilize an integrative and eclectic approach to promote self-awareness, healing, wholeness, connectedness and growth within each of my clients. In a safe and supportive environment, we will explore whatever life challenges you, your child, or family may be experiencing and find ways to increase inner resources and sense of well-being. I believe in the transformational process of therapy, and want to support you in reaching your unique goals and living your most full, authentic, empowered life.
I work within a social justice lens and with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, relationship challenges including divorce and separation, and life transitions.
Compassionate psychotherapy for adults, adolescents, children, and families. My approach is client-centered and collaborative. I believe in the innate wisdom of every individual, and utilize an integrative and eclectic approach to promote self-awareness, healing, wholeness, connectedness and growth within each of my clients. In a safe and supportive environment, we will explore whatever life challenges you, your child, or family may be experiencing and find ways to increase inner resources and sense of well-being. I believe in the transformational process of therapy, and want to support you in reaching your unique goals and living your most full, authentic, empowered life.
(925) 231-0238 View (925) 231-0238
Photo of Mary M Good, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bodega, CA
Mary M Good
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472
Whoever you are, particularly if you sometimes find yourself lonely in the world, if you are a person of color, part of the LGBTQ community, if you wonder if you are too different, too difficult or just too much...You are welcome here. Here are some of the reasons folks find their way into my office: Depression/ Anxiety/ Grief/ Overwhelm/ Low Self-Esteem / Self Hatred/ Feeling lost or stuck/ Sorrow or fear about Climate Change / Degradation of the natural world.
Whoever you are, particularly if you sometimes find yourself lonely in the world, if you are a person of color, part of the LGBTQ community, if you wonder if you are too different, too difficult or just too much...You are welcome here. Here are some of the reasons folks find their way into my office: Depression/ Anxiety/ Grief/ Overwhelm/ Low Self-Esteem / Self Hatred/ Feeling lost or stuck/ Sorrow or fear about Climate Change / Degradation of the natural world.
(707) 346-5459 View (707) 346-5459
Photo of Alexis K Glidewell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bodega, CA
Alexis K Glidewell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472
Caring for a dependent person with whom you have a previous history is uniquely challenging. Family histories and dynamics do not go away when someone gets sick. In addition to juggling the tasks of helping a dependent family member get through the day, caregivers are balancing obligations such as work, parenting and other responsibilities. One's own health and wellbeing, finances, and other roles and relationships can all be affected by the demands of caregiving. Finding balance and coping with ambiguity can be challenging, especially in the presence of emotional undercurrents such as grief, loss, resentment, guilt and overwhelm.
Caring for a dependent person with whom you have a previous history is uniquely challenging. Family histories and dynamics do not go away when someone gets sick. In addition to juggling the tasks of helping a dependent family member get through the day, caregivers are balancing obligations such as work, parenting and other responsibilities. One's own health and wellbeing, finances, and other roles and relationships can all be affected by the demands of caregiving. Finding balance and coping with ambiguity can be challenging, especially in the presence of emotional undercurrents such as grief, loss, resentment, guilt and overwhelm.
(707) 471-6837 View (707) 471-6837
Photo of Marie F Piazza, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bodega, CA
Marie F Piazza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472
I am passionate about working with people who are experiencing depression, anxiety, or grief.
Is it easier for you to give than to receive? Are you a nurse, therapist, teacher, or in another "helping profession"? Are you tired of struggling with the daily life grind, while longing for a rich and vibrant life? Do you wonder why you often feel so depleted, while others are enjoying life? Are you in a relationship but are struggling with the same issues and can't find your way to a better way of relating? You are not alone! You deserve to be happy and fulfilled. You can heal and learn new ways of living! I hold the space in which a full and rewarding life is possible for you, even if you cannot yet imagine it for yourself.
I am passionate about working with people who are experiencing depression, anxiety, or grief.
Is it easier for you to give than to receive? Are you a nurse, therapist, teacher, or in another "helping profession"? Are you tired of struggling with the daily life grind, while longing for a rich and vibrant life? Do you wonder why you often feel so depleted, while others are enjoying life? Are you in a relationship but are struggling with the same issues and can't find your way to a better way of relating? You are not alone! You deserve to be happy and fulfilled. You can heal and learn new ways of living! I hold the space in which a full and rewarding life is possible for you, even if you cannot yet imagine it for yourself.
(707) 570-3940 View (707) 570-3940
Photo of Cheryl Jern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bodega, CA
Cheryl Jern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MFT
Verified Verified
Tomales, CA 94971
Psychotherapy can dramatically change your life. It can help you find hope out of hopelessness and meaning out of suffering. Sometimes we just need a helping hand. For over 35 years, I've been helping clients move from self-doubt, fear and judgment to a place of healing and self-acceptance. I have a special interest in working with individuals with chronic illness; individuals suffering from grief and loss; and the issues of aging.
Psychotherapy can dramatically change your life. It can help you find hope out of hopelessness and meaning out of suffering. Sometimes we just need a helping hand. For over 35 years, I've been helping clients move from self-doubt, fear and judgment to a place of healing and self-acceptance. I have a special interest in working with individuals with chronic illness; individuals suffering from grief and loss; and the issues of aging.
(707) 267-2599 View (707) 267-2599
Photo of Mimi Rose Bashaw, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bodega, CA
Mimi Rose Bashaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sebastopol, CA 95473
Fulfillment from relationships and the transformation of heartbreak, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, and isolation are all possible. Sometimes we need outside support to help us identify our strengths and guide us down a path that leads to healing. With sensitivity and compassion, I integrate the most effective approaches that help my clients heal from the past and realize peace and happiness in their lives. I welcome individuals and couples of any gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, and spiritual beliefs. I have worked extensively with clients who have experienced altered states of consciousness and those who use cannabis as medicine.
Fulfillment from relationships and the transformation of heartbreak, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, and isolation are all possible. Sometimes we need outside support to help us identify our strengths and guide us down a path that leads to healing. With sensitivity and compassion, I integrate the most effective approaches that help my clients heal from the past and realize peace and happiness in their lives. I welcome individuals and couples of any gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, and spiritual beliefs. I have worked extensively with clients who have experienced altered states of consciousness and those who use cannabis as medicine.
(707) 723-4467 View (707) 723-4467
Photo of Buddhist Therapy Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bodega, CA
Buddhist Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472
I am a grief guide whose own tragedies of grief and loss have healed and opened my heart to assist you, like nothing else can.
Welcome to my Buddhist and Soul-Centered Psychotherapy practice. With an unshakeable belief in your ability to heal and thrive, and 20 years of helping clients through their darkest nights of soul - a sanctuary of trust, nurturing wisdom and deep healing is here for you. We will explore your inner world and the power of holistic and spiritual psychotherapies - mindfulness and body-based therapies that transform people's lives. I specialize in working with adults who need help with the sometimes devastating and often overwhelming symptoms that grief, loss, anxiety and crisis may bring. You deserve to have a village of support!
I am a grief guide whose own tragedies of grief and loss have healed and opened my heart to assist you, like nothing else can.
Welcome to my Buddhist and Soul-Centered Psychotherapy practice. With an unshakeable belief in your ability to heal and thrive, and 20 years of helping clients through their darkest nights of soul - a sanctuary of trust, nurturing wisdom and deep healing is here for you. We will explore your inner world and the power of holistic and spiritual psychotherapies - mindfulness and body-based therapies that transform people's lives. I specialize in working with adults who need help with the sometimes devastating and often overwhelming symptoms that grief, loss, anxiety and crisis may bring. You deserve to have a village of support!
(415) 849-4108 View (415) 849-4108
Photo of Karen Stocksdale, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bodega, CA
Karen Stocksdale
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472
Do you long to feel whole again? I am available to those who are struggling with grief, loss, personal trauma, or life circumstances. We will collaborate and help you find your center, strengthen your core, and equip you with tools to re-integrate your being.
Do you long to feel whole again? I am available to those who are struggling with grief, loss, personal trauma, or life circumstances. We will collaborate and help you find your center, strengthen your core, and equip you with tools to re-integrate your being.
(707) 549-6050 View (707) 549-6050
Photo of Susan Kistin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bodega, CA
Susan Kistin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472
Whatever has brought you here, I've no doubt it's an opportunity to create something better. I can help you release old, painful patterns that go nowhere, so you can create the life you want. If you're on your knees in transition, grief and loss, I can support you through it. I'm an enthusiastic catalyst for you to be a game changer in your own life! You can rely on my 35 plus years of experience and will find me interactive, compassionate and generous with clear, inspiring feedback. We'll work as collaborators for your best evolution.
Whatever has brought you here, I've no doubt it's an opportunity to create something better. I can help you release old, painful patterns that go nowhere, so you can create the life you want. If you're on your knees in transition, grief and loss, I can support you through it. I'm an enthusiastic catalyst for you to be a game changer in your own life! You can rely on my 35 plus years of experience and will find me interactive, compassionate and generous with clear, inspiring feedback. We'll work as collaborators for your best evolution.
(707) 563-6106 View (707) 563-6106
Photo of Jan Beaulyn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bodega, CA
Jan Beaulyn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sebastopol, CA 95472  (Online Only)
Are you anxious, depressed, or experiencing marital conflict? Looking for help with parenting, or feeling unsure of yourself? I provide brief therapy for these issues, and longer-term work for those who can benefit from that. I am skilled to help with relationship difficulties, behavior problems, work issues, or grief. We're all part of a family, our family of origin and our nuclear family. The heart of my work is assisting families to benefit all their members. With focus, patience and effort, you can identify and change behavior patterns that cause difficulties. One person makes a difference.
Are you anxious, depressed, or experiencing marital conflict? Looking for help with parenting, or feeling unsure of yourself? I provide brief therapy for these issues, and longer-term work for those who can benefit from that. I am skilled to help with relationship difficulties, behavior problems, work issues, or grief. We're all part of a family, our family of origin and our nuclear family. The heart of my work is assisting families to benefit all their members. With focus, patience and effort, you can identify and change behavior patterns that cause difficulties. One person makes a difference.
(707) 800-3589 View (707) 800-3589
Photo of Sharon (Phoenix) Piwowarski, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bodega, CA
Sharon (Phoenix) Piwowarski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472  (Online Only)
We are in the midst of uncertain and trying times. Some of the feelings you are likely experiencing are fear, grief, frustration, confusion, isolation, and anxiety. The global trauma of the Coronavirus may be causing remnants of any previous trauma to resurface. It may also be rocking your sense of security and posing questions of life purpose and direction. And it is most assuredly adding to individual or family stress.
We are in the midst of uncertain and trying times. Some of the feelings you are likely experiencing are fear, grief, frustration, confusion, isolation, and anxiety. The global trauma of the Coronavirus may be causing remnants of any previous trauma to resurface. It may also be rocking your sense of security and posing questions of life purpose and direction. And it is most assuredly adding to individual or family stress.
(510) 984-6976 View (510) 984-6976
Photo of Patricia Hartnett, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bodega, CA
Patricia Hartnett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472
Waitlist for new clients
Stress, anxiety and depression are common human responses to difficult life events. Current research supports that therapy can help individuals better understand and move through these experiences. In my view there is great potential for healing at any stage in life. I acknowledge that a desire for depth and wholeness is universal - as is the need for meaning. I work mostly with adults, seniors, and family members experiencing adjustment to life changes; including work issues, adult children's struggles, retirement, and loss and grief.
Stress, anxiety and depression are common human responses to difficult life events. Current research supports that therapy can help individuals better understand and move through these experiences. In my view there is great potential for healing at any stage in life. I acknowledge that a desire for depth and wholeness is universal - as is the need for meaning. I work mostly with adults, seniors, and family members experiencing adjustment to life changes; including work issues, adult children's struggles, retirement, and loss and grief.
(707) 526-7720 x319 View (707) 526-7720 x319
Photo of Hochima Denise Treppa, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bodega, CA
Hochima Denise Treppa
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472
I have special training in Hypnotherapy, Psych-K, Emotion Code, EMDR, Grief Counseling, Childhood Depression, Play Therapy, Sandtray, Divorce Counseling, Somatic Experiencing, Research-based Couples' Counseling, Integrative Body Psychotherapy, Substance Abuse, Adult Children of Alcoholics issues, & issues of Sexual Abuse.
If you find you just are hitting a plateau which you cannot move beyond, the pain of your childhood or past trauma somehow comes up to keep you down or stuck in life or your relationships. You are seeking a Professional who is supportive, compassionate and understanding; who can help and guide you to your own answers, perfectly tailored for you, without shaming you or intimidating you. Or you are a parent and want this type of support for your child. I can help you free yourself from your past and grow into the great person you know is within you.
I have special training in Hypnotherapy, Psych-K, Emotion Code, EMDR, Grief Counseling, Childhood Depression, Play Therapy, Sandtray, Divorce Counseling, Somatic Experiencing, Research-based Couples' Counseling, Integrative Body Psychotherapy, Substance Abuse, Adult Children of Alcoholics issues, & issues of Sexual Abuse.
If you find you just are hitting a plateau which you cannot move beyond, the pain of your childhood or past trauma somehow comes up to keep you down or stuck in life or your relationships. You are seeking a Professional who is supportive, compassionate and understanding; who can help and guide you to your own answers, perfectly tailored for you, without shaming you or intimidating you. Or you are a parent and want this type of support for your child. I can help you free yourself from your past and grow into the great person you know is within you.
(707) 998-5922 View (707) 998-5922
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.