Photo of Wayne Carl Hirsh, Psychologist in Carmel, CA
Wayne Carl Hirsh
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, CA 93923  (Online Only)
There is a great loss of their support system.
It is my life's work to help people understand themselves so that they can make better choices and spend their time wisely. Time is our most precious asset. You can't save it, you can't make more of it, and you don't know how much you have. Therefore it is important to be aware of the fact that the most important relationship we ever have, is with ourselves. A critical, scolding, internal voice is a main component of depression. I have over 40 years of experience, with many years of advanced supervision. I always suggest to meet one time to determine if we are comfortable with one another and can work together.
There is a great loss of their support system.
It is my life's work to help people understand themselves so that they can make better choices and spend their time wisely. Time is our most precious asset. You can't save it, you can't make more of it, and you don't know how much you have. Therefore it is important to be aware of the fact that the most important relationship we ever have, is with ourselves. A critical, scolding, internal voice is a main component of depression. I have over 40 years of experience, with many years of advanced supervision. I always suggest to meet one time to determine if we are comfortable with one another and can work together.
(831) 250-1159 View (831) 250-1159
Photo of Cheryl Ann Trotter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Cheryl Ann Trotter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923  (Online Only)
I have experience working with Individuals, Families and Couples who are seeking support with issues related to Drug & Alcohol Problems; Divorce; Depression and Anxiety; Stress Management; Caregiver Support; Relationship & Communication Difficulties; Gay/Lesbian Issues; Grief Support; Life Coaching and Life Transitions.
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience. I also have an additional certification for Drug & Alcohol Counseling and Life Coaching and work collaboratively with clients to help build on strengths rather than focusing on deficits. In our sessions, I work with you to develop healthy life skills using proactive therapeutic techniques via phone or Zoom formats enabling you can be in the comfort of your home during a session. I incorporate CBT, Positive Psychology and Solution Focus approaches to teach and encourage healthy communication, mood management strategies and develop effective life skills.
I have experience working with Individuals, Families and Couples who are seeking support with issues related to Drug & Alcohol Problems; Divorce; Depression and Anxiety; Stress Management; Caregiver Support; Relationship & Communication Difficulties; Gay/Lesbian Issues; Grief Support; Life Coaching and Life Transitions.
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience. I also have an additional certification for Drug & Alcohol Counseling and Life Coaching and work collaboratively with clients to help build on strengths rather than focusing on deficits. In our sessions, I work with you to develop healthy life skills using proactive therapeutic techniques via phone or Zoom formats enabling you can be in the comfort of your home during a session. I incorporate CBT, Positive Psychology and Solution Focus approaches to teach and encourage healthy communication, mood management strategies and develop effective life skills.
(831) 824-4963 View (831) 824-4963
Photo of Jennifer Dentici, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Jennifer Dentici, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PCCi
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923
I offer video counseling & telehealth to ensure your safety! Specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship, divorce, parenting support, grief/loss, career, stress management, addiction, recovery, multicultural, and chronic illness.
Working collaboratively, in a way that feels supportive, we will identify and reach goals in a timely manner to ensure you gain initial and sustainable relief. I offer effective support. With over a decade of experience working in private practice, mental health agencies, and schools, I have the training, education, and experience required to effectively treat a wide range of issues. Please contact me for a consultation.
I offer video counseling & telehealth to ensure your safety! Specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship, divorce, parenting support, grief/loss, career, stress management, addiction, recovery, multicultural, and chronic illness.
Working collaboratively, in a way that feels supportive, we will identify and reach goals in a timely manner to ensure you gain initial and sustainable relief. I offer effective support. With over a decade of experience working in private practice, mental health agencies, and schools, I have the training, education, and experience required to effectively treat a wide range of issues. Please contact me for a consultation.
(831) 525-0097 View (831) 525-0097
Photo of Mark Sayre, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Mark Sayre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923
Not accepting new clients
I encourage clients to tell their story and collaborate with them in the co-creation of more preferred and less problem saturated personal narratives. Mindfulness skills (e.g. paying attention in the present moment, non-judgmentally, with acceptance and kindness), emotional regulation, and relationship skills are integrated into the therapeutic process.
I encourage clients to tell their story and collaborate with them in the co-creation of more preferred and less problem saturated personal narratives. Mindfulness skills (e.g. paying attention in the present moment, non-judgmentally, with acceptance and kindness), emotional regulation, and relationship skills are integrated into the therapeutic process.
(831) 250-1397 View (831) 250-1397

Online Therapists

Photo of Patrick Joseph Purcell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Patrick Joseph Purcell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073  (Online Only)
This is my passion and my clients feel at ease with me quickly with my empathy and humor. I help relationship stress, anxiety, PTSD, neurodiversity, grief, recovery from child and narcissistic abuse, finding their true authentic self and passion. I use client-centered Rogers, Kohut, EMDR, Beck and Ellis CBT, DBT. ACT, Jung... I am a Christian and I also respect people with other faiths or no faith. I help therapists, interns too.I am 72 years old and I have been married for 48 years to my beautiful wife singer Christina Purcell and we did individual and couple therapy too. We write songs such as the songs on her CD "Love's Calling."
This is my passion and my clients feel at ease with me quickly with my empathy and humor. I help relationship stress, anxiety, PTSD, neurodiversity, grief, recovery from child and narcissistic abuse, finding their true authentic self and passion. I use client-centered Rogers, Kohut, EMDR, Beck and Ellis CBT, DBT. ACT, Jung... I am a Christian and I also respect people with other faiths or no faith. I help therapists, interns too.I am 72 years old and I have been married for 48 years to my beautiful wife singer Christina Purcell and we did individual and couple therapy too. We write songs such as the songs on her CD "Love's Calling."
(831) 219-2362 View (831) 219-2362
Photo of Nicole Morgan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Nicole Morgan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacific Grove, CA 93950
I have years of experience working with individuals (adults, children and adolescents), couples and families confronted with a variety of issues, such as depression, anxiety, suicidality, trauma, grief and loss, stress management, relationship difficulties, divorce, and life transitions.
Sometimes the challenges we face in life can feel overwhelming and impossible to overcome, and it is my belief that through authentic human connection, compassion and unconditional positive regard one can open up new doors of self-discovery that will allow them to find meaning, purpose and healing. It is my goal to help shine light on areas of your inner experience that will foster your ability to expand your self-awareness and make life changes. No two individuals are the same, thus I strongly believe in working with you to understand what your unique experience is like and adjust my approach to meet you where you are at.
I have years of experience working with individuals (adults, children and adolescents), couples and families confronted with a variety of issues, such as depression, anxiety, suicidality, trauma, grief and loss, stress management, relationship difficulties, divorce, and life transitions.
Sometimes the challenges we face in life can feel overwhelming and impossible to overcome, and it is my belief that through authentic human connection, compassion and unconditional positive regard one can open up new doors of self-discovery that will allow them to find meaning, purpose and healing. It is my goal to help shine light on areas of your inner experience that will foster your ability to expand your self-awareness and make life changes. No two individuals are the same, thus I strongly believe in working with you to understand what your unique experience is like and adjust my approach to meet you where you are at.
(831) 264-1697 View (831) 264-1697
Photo of Aimee Michele Semas-Day, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Aimee Michele Semas-Day
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
Aimee has worked with adults, teens and families for 20 years; She specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and relationship issues. Her approach is strength-based, solution focused and her overarching goal is to support clients in developing skill sets while processing past traumas. Aimee has a keen ability to connect with all ages; but her primary focus has been teens and adults for the past decade. Aimee has also expanded her practice to include video therapy, phone calls and walk/talk therapy to better meet the needs of clients.
Aimee has worked with adults, teens and families for 20 years; She specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and relationship issues. Her approach is strength-based, solution focused and her overarching goal is to support clients in developing skill sets while processing past traumas. Aimee has a keen ability to connect with all ages; but her primary focus has been teens and adults for the past decade. Aimee has also expanded her practice to include video therapy, phone calls and walk/talk therapy to better meet the needs of clients.
(408) 479-6137 View (408) 479-6137
Photo of Alham Rodriguez (Bilingual), Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Alham Rodriguez (Bilingual)
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Watsonville, CA 95076  (Online Only)
I have been able to support clients of all ages with anxiety, depression, emotional disturbance, life transitions, grief, behavioral issues, and family conflict.
Hello and bienvenidos. I have over 11 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My approach to practice is tailored to the individual needs and style of each client. I enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds. My style is authentic, attentive, warm, yet playful and humorous. I strive to provide a safe and non-judgmental atmosphere where you can feel heard and understood. I enjoy working from an integrated approach that is person-centered, mindfulness-based, and rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I have been able to support clients of all ages with anxiety, depression, emotional disturbance, life transitions, grief, behavioral issues, and family conflict.
Hello and bienvenidos. I have over 11 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My approach to practice is tailored to the individual needs and style of each client. I enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds. My style is authentic, attentive, warm, yet playful and humorous. I strive to provide a safe and non-judgmental atmosphere where you can feel heard and understood. I enjoy working from an integrated approach that is person-centered, mindfulness-based, and rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
(831) 387-6689 View (831) 387-6689
Photo of Marcia Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, CA
Marcia Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Maria, CA 93458
People of faith also suffer from depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, burnout, insecurities, etc.
My name is Marcia (Mar-see-a). I am a licensed clinical social worker, and a licensed marriage and family therapist. My approach is client-centered and solution-focused. I want to get to know you, your goals, and help you remove any barriers to achieving those goals.
People of faith also suffer from depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, burnout, insecurities, etc.
My name is Marcia (Mar-see-a). I am a licensed clinical social worker, and a licensed marriage and family therapist. My approach is client-centered and solution-focused. I want to get to know you, your goals, and help you remove any barriers to achieving those goals.
(909) 787-2307 View (909) 787-2307
Photo of Jennifer Buehler Mendoza Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, CA
Jennifer Buehler Mendoza Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salinas, CA 93902  (Online Only)
It takes a lot of courage to face the tough stuff thrown at us in our life. I have always been fond of the saying, "When life throws you a curve ball, you can either move out of the way or reach for it!" I have been helping others who have experienced trauma and loss for over 20 years, specializing in the field of child welfare, foster care, adoption and maternal mental health. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and perinatal mood & anxiety disorders. I also am very passionate about supporting our first responders and the unique needs that they face.
It takes a lot of courage to face the tough stuff thrown at us in our life. I have always been fond of the saying, "When life throws you a curve ball, you can either move out of the way or reach for it!" I have been helping others who have experienced trauma and loss for over 20 years, specializing in the field of child welfare, foster care, adoption and maternal mental health. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and perinatal mood & anxiety disorders. I also am very passionate about supporting our first responders and the unique needs that they face.
(831) 534-3066 View (831) 534-3066
Photo of Seventh Wave Counseling-Lisa Huet, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, CA
Seventh Wave Counseling-Lisa Huet, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I find that these theories do a great job of supporting folks in gaining the strength to overcome challenges, whether they experience anxiety, depression, grief, or the aftermath of trauma.
Life brings some challenges to all of us and sorting these out can be difficult for the most competent of individuals. My hope is to help you find the clarity you seek so you can enjoy your life to the fullest by creating an accepting environment to support your journey to a better life. I have always been curious about people and what makes us think one way or another. I have had the opportunity to serve people in this area for over 20 years at different agencies and have worked with very diverse folks. I would love the opportunity to help you discover some unexplored part of yourself that can deepen satisfaction in your life.
I find that these theories do a great job of supporting folks in gaining the strength to overcome challenges, whether they experience anxiety, depression, grief, or the aftermath of trauma.
Life brings some challenges to all of us and sorting these out can be difficult for the most competent of individuals. My hope is to help you find the clarity you seek so you can enjoy your life to the fullest by creating an accepting environment to support your journey to a better life. I have always been curious about people and what makes us think one way or another. I have had the opportunity to serve people in this area for over 20 years at different agencies and have worked with very diverse folks. I would love the opportunity to help you discover some unexplored part of yourself that can deepen satisfaction in your life.
(805) 262-8434 View (805) 262-8434
Photo of Richard Litvak, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Richard Litvak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073
I have extensive experience in aging and grief issues, whether these are the client's own or those of a loved one you are trying to assist.
After 25 years of hearing from clients that I help them to grow, change and solve the problems that bring them into therapy, I take pride in being a caring, compassionate and skilled therapist. Research has demonstrated that successful therapy depends upon the relationship between the therapist and the client. You can trust me to respect you, understand you and guide you in a collaborative therapeutic process. You can safely bring your frustrations, sadness, anxiety, shame or other feelings into therapy as we work through them in ways that improve your happiness and sense of well being.
I have extensive experience in aging and grief issues, whether these are the client's own or those of a loved one you are trying to assist.
After 25 years of hearing from clients that I help them to grow, change and solve the problems that bring them into therapy, I take pride in being a caring, compassionate and skilled therapist. Research has demonstrated that successful therapy depends upon the relationship between the therapist and the client. You can trust me to respect you, understand you and guide you in a collaborative therapeutic process. You can safely bring your frustrations, sadness, anxiety, shame or other feelings into therapy as we work through them in ways that improve your happiness and sense of well being.
(831) 216-0350 View (831) 216-0350
Photo of Felicia Martin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Felicia Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Salinas, CA 93906
I have treated all types of conditions but have most often worked with those struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief, trauma and those adjusting to changes in their lives.
My name is Felicia Martin and I have a PhD in Clinical Psychology and am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional and have been working with individuals, couples and families for more than 25 years. I have helped people navigate through difficult times and find a path towards a meaningful, peaceful and fulfilling life. I work with all types of clients but most are having difficulty navigating relationships with spouses, family and friends.
I have treated all types of conditions but have most often worked with those struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief, trauma and those adjusting to changes in their lives.
My name is Felicia Martin and I have a PhD in Clinical Psychology and am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional and have been working with individuals, couples and families for more than 25 years. I have helped people navigate through difficult times and find a path towards a meaningful, peaceful and fulfilling life. I work with all types of clients but most are having difficulty navigating relationships with spouses, family and friends.
(831) 604-2517 View (831) 604-2517
Photo of Natasha Quintero, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Natasha Quintero
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orcutt, CA 93455
Currently accepting new clients aged 12 years and older. The human condition is filled with interactions, exchanges, and events that can lead to debilitating stress, lack of focus, despair, and a sense of total loss. These adverse experiences do not define us, but they can lead to the development of maladaptive thoughts, and behaviors. I look at your transgenerational resilience and foster growth, healing, and recovery. My main objective is to support you in the various stages of change, with my professional & human skills. I look forward to joining you on your journey via in person care or via telehealth.
Currently accepting new clients aged 12 years and older. The human condition is filled with interactions, exchanges, and events that can lead to debilitating stress, lack of focus, despair, and a sense of total loss. These adverse experiences do not define us, but they can lead to the development of maladaptive thoughts, and behaviors. I look at your transgenerational resilience and foster growth, healing, and recovery. My main objective is to support you in the various stages of change, with my professional & human skills. I look forward to joining you on your journey via in person care or via telehealth.
(805) 800-8667 View (805) 800-8667
Photo of Daniel Zacarias Messiter, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Carmel, CA
Daniel Zacarias Messiter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
 He specializes in teen issues, grief, depression and anxiety.
Life is like a river of emotions, and sometimes the current can become unpredictable and overwhelming. Navigating this river can be exhausting, and when we try to block the flow, pressure builds, and builds and until it feels like there is too much to face alone. You do not have to navigate your river alone. Daniel creates a safe and welcoming environment for his clients to relieve stress, tension and learn new tools to aid in emotional navigation. His approach is client-centered, focusing on the depth of your experiences, to finding new insight and resolution to the difficulties in your life.
 He specializes in teen issues, grief, depression and anxiety.
Life is like a river of emotions, and sometimes the current can become unpredictable and overwhelming. Navigating this river can be exhausting, and when we try to block the flow, pressure builds, and builds and until it feels like there is too much to face alone. You do not have to navigate your river alone. Daniel creates a safe and welcoming environment for his clients to relieve stress, tension and learn new tools to aid in emotional navigation. His approach is client-centered, focusing on the depth of your experiences, to finding new insight and resolution to the difficulties in your life.
(805) 516-0921 View (805) 516-0921
Photo of Karen H Shin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Karen H Shin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atascadero, CA 93422
Hello. I’m a trauma informed attachment therapist certified in EMDR. I believe in our ability to heal and grow. I love to see individual and families to heal, grow and thrive because occasionally being human is difficult. I would be honored if invited to be a part of your journey as you explore issues around yourself, on parenting, or relationship challenges. If you experience self-doubt, depression, anxiety, due to trauma, grief and losses, I’m here for you. If you have been considering bringing some positive changes to your life, reach out to me and let's journey together.
Hello. I’m a trauma informed attachment therapist certified in EMDR. I believe in our ability to heal and grow. I love to see individual and families to heal, grow and thrive because occasionally being human is difficult. I would be honored if invited to be a part of your journey as you explore issues around yourself, on parenting, or relationship challenges. If you experience self-doubt, depression, anxiety, due to trauma, grief and losses, I’m here for you. If you have been considering bringing some positive changes to your life, reach out to me and let's journey together.
(805) 219-7078 View (805) 219-7078
Photo of Grace M Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Grace M Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
How can I help you? Was there a crisis, or an unexpected, yet, traumatic event that has happened in your life? Maybe you're just feeling lost, tired, overwhelmed, in-shock, and just in need of some extra support. Maybe it was an ultimatum, "Either we go to therapy, or we're done..." that motivated this decision. So here you are... reading this... are you ready? As your Therapist I will listen, be supportive, and help you deal with the crisis, trauma, and stressors in your life. I provide a warm, inviting, safe, and non-judgmental space where you and your healing are my main focus.
How can I help you? Was there a crisis, or an unexpected, yet, traumatic event that has happened in your life? Maybe you're just feeling lost, tired, overwhelmed, in-shock, and just in need of some extra support. Maybe it was an ultimatum, "Either we go to therapy, or we're done..." that motivated this decision. So here you are... reading this... are you ready? As your Therapist I will listen, be supportive, and help you deal with the crisis, trauma, and stressors in your life. I provide a warm, inviting, safe, and non-judgmental space where you and your healing are my main focus.
(831) 264-0937 View (831) 264-0937
Photo of Charles D. Martinez Jr, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Charles D. Martinez Jr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
Charles’ passion is psychological healing and growth. He believes everyone has the innate potential to live full, satisfying and self-actualizing lives with hope, joy, and meaning. He wishes to facilitate change and growth in an open, safe, non-judgmental atmosphere wherein compassion and authenticity will provide the necessary impetus for growth and a sense of wholeness.
Charles’ passion is psychological healing and growth. He believes everyone has the innate potential to live full, satisfying and self-actualizing lives with hope, joy, and meaning. He wishes to facilitate change and growth in an open, safe, non-judgmental atmosphere wherein compassion and authenticity will provide the necessary impetus for growth and a sense of wholeness.
(408) 676-4402 View (408) 676-4402
Photo of Enrique Morales Bravo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Enrique Morales Bravo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Salinas, CA 93901
Living in today's world is complicated and often stressful. If you feel stuck, insecure, stressed, fearful and depressed I am here to assist you to overcome your struggles. Working together you will learn effective coping skills to reduce the effects of stress, trauma, and emotional anguish. If you are looking for a safe place to freely express your emotions, receive unconditional acceptance, be supported and have guidance on resolving your everyday challenges feel free to contact me. I have the experienced of working with individuals, couples, children, and families of diverse cultural backgrounds.
Living in today's world is complicated and often stressful. If you feel stuck, insecure, stressed, fearful and depressed I am here to assist you to overcome your struggles. Working together you will learn effective coping skills to reduce the effects of stress, trauma, and emotional anguish. If you are looking for a safe place to freely express your emotions, receive unconditional acceptance, be supported and have guidance on resolving your everyday challenges feel free to contact me. I have the experienced of working with individuals, couples, children, and families of diverse cultural backgrounds.
(831) 750-1281 View (831) 750-1281
Photo of Kevin M Weiland, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Kevin M Weiland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060  (Online Only)
Suffering comes in many forms. It is personal and intimate and often times overwhelming and sometimes debilitating. But you don’t have to face it alone. Many people have sought my help for feelings of anxiety, stress, overwhelm, and an out of balance work-life; others, for unresolved trauma , PTSD, and other stress-related disorders which keep people trapped in disregulated states of being; still others because they were unhappy with their life and the spark of their passion was dim.
Suffering comes in many forms. It is personal and intimate and often times overwhelming and sometimes debilitating. But you don’t have to face it alone. Many people have sought my help for feelings of anxiety, stress, overwhelm, and an out of balance work-life; others, for unresolved trauma , PTSD, and other stress-related disorders which keep people trapped in disregulated states of being; still others because they were unhappy with their life and the spark of their passion was dim.
(650) 864-8920 View (650) 864-8920

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Grief Therapists

How long does therapy take for grief?

There is no exact timeline for grief counseling. Some people may start to feel better after just a few sessions, while others may take months or longer to feel relief. Some specific approaches, including some types of CBT, may involve a set number of sessions, or therapy may be open-ended until the patient determines they are ready to wrap up. Just as there is no right or wrong way to grieve, there is no right or wrong way to seek therapy for grief.

When should you seek therapy for grief?

Many people mistakenly believe that their grief needs to be debilitating or all-encompassing to warrant therapy. This is not the case. While people who experience severe, prolonged grief—particularly those who are considering self-harm or engaging in unhealthy substance use—are especially likely to benefit from therapy, so too are people whose grief is less intense but still interfering with well-being or daily functioning. In practice, almost anyone struggling to process a loss could benefit from grief counseling.

Can grief be managed without therapy?

Oftentimes, yes. Grief is a near-universal part of being human, and many find that their grief, while profound, does not stop them from participating in day-to-day life and steadily eases over time without outside help. For others, however, the harsh pain of early grief persists for months or years or leaves them unable to function. This group is especially likely to benefit from seeing a therapist, who can guide them through their grief and help them reconnect with the world.

What happens if grief is left untreated?

Because grief does not in itself necessitate therapy, untreated grief will often resolve on its own. However, for some people—particularly those who would qualify for a diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder—untreated grief can be a source of seemingly endless pain or lead them to withdraw from the world. In such cases, treatment can be indispensable, as it can help an individual adapt to the loss and start living again.