Grief Therapists in Dana Point, CA

Photo of Rhonda Otway, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dana Point, CA
Rhonda Otway
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629  (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed by challenges at work? In your private life? I offer professional counseling for career and life transitions. I provide individual therapy to increase your ability to cope with life's stressors including adulting, job changes (workplace bullying, termination, promotion, new career), trauma and complex PTSD, grief due to a death or other loss, including loss of a pet, chronic health issues, relationships (current, extramarital, separation/divorce), and other life changes (empty nest, aging, retirement, menopause, midlife crisis) so you can successfully transition to the next stage.
Feeling overwhelmed by challenges at work? In your private life? I offer professional counseling for career and life transitions. I provide individual therapy to increase your ability to cope with life's stressors including adulting, job changes (workplace bullying, termination, promotion, new career), trauma and complex PTSD, grief due to a death or other loss, including loss of a pet, chronic health issues, relationships (current, extramarital, separation/divorce), and other life changes (empty nest, aging, retirement, menopause, midlife crisis) so you can successfully transition to the next stage.
(925) 890-3989 View (925) 890-3989
Photo of Grant Waggoner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dana Point, CA
Grant Waggoner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629
If you have a child, teenager, or emerging adult who is struggling with hurt, grief, anxiety, or any other burden that appears heavy on their heart, I am here to help. It is my desire to create a space for clients to feel safe and heard within the counseling room. I believe that deep healing and change occur through a genuine and honest relationship with a caring counselor. You are warmly welcomed here.
If you have a child, teenager, or emerging adult who is struggling with hurt, grief, anxiety, or any other burden that appears heavy on their heart, I am here to help. It is my desire to create a space for clients to feel safe and heard within the counseling room. I believe that deep healing and change occur through a genuine and honest relationship with a caring counselor. You are warmly welcomed here.
(714) 276-8957 View (714) 276-8957
Photo of Dr. Robyn Igelman | Beach Walk Talk, Psychologist in Dana Point, CA
Dr. Robyn Igelman | Beach Walk Talk
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dana Point, CA 92629
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with anxiety/panic, depression, trauma, loss or grief? Are you using unhealthy or ineffective coping strategies to get through your day? You want to do better but you just aren't sure where to start? I can help. I specialize in working with adults, couples, teens, and families who are highly motivated & typically successful in school, at work, and at home but find themselves no longer able to cope with life's stressors on their own. Whether it is grief & loss, work stress, relationship issues, alcohol/substance use, depression or anxiety, I can help you get your life and relationships back on track.
Are you struggling with anxiety/panic, depression, trauma, loss or grief? Are you using unhealthy or ineffective coping strategies to get through your day? You want to do better but you just aren't sure where to start? I can help. I specialize in working with adults, couples, teens, and families who are highly motivated & typically successful in school, at work, and at home but find themselves no longer able to cope with life's stressors on their own. Whether it is grief & loss, work stress, relationship issues, alcohol/substance use, depression or anxiety, I can help you get your life and relationships back on track.
(949) 288-2584 View (949) 288-2584
Photo of Crystal Valerio-Sandoval, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dana Point, CA
Crystal Valerio-Sandoval
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629
Hello! In this therapeutic journey that you have decided to embark on, I believe in putting you first. What is that you desire to change? What is troubling you at the moment? What is that you need? Is it guidance, a listening ear, to overcome past trauma, anxiety or depression? Are you going through life changes? I have been in practice for 10 years. My experience includes working with adolescents, children, families, couples, elderly and adults. I practice various treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy. I have treated ADHD, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, grief, divorce, and trauma.
Hello! In this therapeutic journey that you have decided to embark on, I believe in putting you first. What is that you desire to change? What is troubling you at the moment? What is that you need? Is it guidance, a listening ear, to overcome past trauma, anxiety or depression? Are you going through life changes? I have been in practice for 10 years. My experience includes working with adolescents, children, families, couples, elderly and adults. I practice various treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy. I have treated ADHD, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, grief, divorce, and trauma.
(424) 408-4304 View (424) 408-4304
Photo of Marla Faith Maciel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dana Point, CA
Marla Faith Maciel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629  (Online Only)
I have 30 years of experience working with a variety of inpatient and outpatient clients who have experienced psychological stressors, grief, chronic mental health issues and trauma using multiple modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic approaches, Developmental Trauma Treatment and strong listening skills.
I am an LCSW with experience working with individuals, couples, and families from various cultural and socioeconomic groups. I have experience working with individuals with grief, loss, trauma, substance abuse, previous incarceration, chronic medical issues, and family relational issues. I also have knowledge and experience working with individuals to manage chronic mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. With empathy, compassion and 30 years of experience I am available to help guide you through this journey of healing and managing your current situation.
I have 30 years of experience working with a variety of inpatient and outpatient clients who have experienced psychological stressors, grief, chronic mental health issues and trauma using multiple modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic approaches, Developmental Trauma Treatment and strong listening skills.
I am an LCSW with experience working with individuals, couples, and families from various cultural and socioeconomic groups. I have experience working with individuals with grief, loss, trauma, substance abuse, previous incarceration, chronic medical issues, and family relational issues. I also have knowledge and experience working with individuals to manage chronic mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. With empathy, compassion and 30 years of experience I am available to help guide you through this journey of healing and managing your current situation.
(714) 294-2327 View (714) 294-2327
Photo of Alexandra Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dana Point, CA
Alexandra Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dana Point, CA 92629  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the states of IL & CA who specializes in working with pregnant & postpartum moms and families, Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs), and sexual assault survivors. I also have experience helping clients with premarital and marital problems (e.g., communication and trust issues, helping partners connect deeper with one another), blended family issues, challenges in pregnancy & postpartum (including perinatal anxiety and depression), grief and loss, various life transitions, trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, and depression.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the states of IL & CA who specializes in working with pregnant & postpartum moms and families, Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs), and sexual assault survivors. I also have experience helping clients with premarital and marital problems (e.g., communication and trust issues, helping partners connect deeper with one another), blended family issues, challenges in pregnancy & postpartum (including perinatal anxiety and depression), grief and loss, various life transitions, trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, and depression.
(847) 961-4086 View (847) 961-4086
Photo of Douglas Kent Smith, Psychologist in Dana Point, CA
Douglas Kent Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dana Point, CA 92629
I work well with hurting people struggling to understand their lives and experiences. I work well with clients with anxiety, depression, grief, loss, aging, and other challenges. I do all of my work on Zoom or phone and work from my home office. Most clients have come to appreciate the privacy and convenience of online meetings. I work to understand each person's challenges and develop a plan specific to each situation. I welcome the opportunity to help you. I am a Medicare provider.
I work well with hurting people struggling to understand their lives and experiences. I work well with clients with anxiety, depression, grief, loss, aging, and other challenges. I do all of my work on Zoom or phone and work from my home office. Most clients have come to appreciate the privacy and convenience of online meetings. I work to understand each person's challenges and develop a plan specific to each situation. I welcome the opportunity to help you. I am a Medicare provider.
(949) 682-3738 View (949) 682-3738
Photo of Julie A Davis, Psychologist in Dana Point, CA
Julie A Davis
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629
My specialities are Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Infidelity, Divorce Recovery, Stage of life (empty nest and retirement), Grief and loss, Mood Disorders, Adult and Pediatric Bipolar disorder.
For the past 20 years, I have worked in Hospitals, Inpatient and Outpatient, Eating Disorder Clinics, a Women and Children's Domestic Violence Crisis Shelter, non-profit counseling centers for families and in an extremely challenging College setting with ages 17-65.In my private practice I see Individuals, couples, children and families. My experience working in numerous settings with people from diverse backgrounds with mild to severe mental health issues, has helped me develop a level of professional competence to help you and your family members with the highest level of care. Your well-being is my highest priority.
My specialities are Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Infidelity, Divorce Recovery, Stage of life (empty nest and retirement), Grief and loss, Mood Disorders, Adult and Pediatric Bipolar disorder.
For the past 20 years, I have worked in Hospitals, Inpatient and Outpatient, Eating Disorder Clinics, a Women and Children's Domestic Violence Crisis Shelter, non-profit counseling centers for families and in an extremely challenging College setting with ages 17-65.In my private practice I see Individuals, couples, children and families. My experience working in numerous settings with people from diverse backgrounds with mild to severe mental health issues, has helped me develop a level of professional competence to help you and your family members with the highest level of care. Your well-being is my highest priority.
(949) 287-2871 View (949) 287-2871
Photo of Jacqueline Lugo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dana Point, CA
Jacqueline Lugo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92624
Life can be hard, change is hard, loss is hard...navigating the exhaustion of the day-to-day is HARD. It is a giant step to seek support; I am glad you found my page. Creating a warm, supportive, and authentic therapeutic space is super important to me as a therapist. I strive to help individuals struggling with life's challenges and transitions. My goal is to come along side you and support you as you process, learn, heal, and grow in a therapeutic setting so that you can gain coping skills to thrive in your day-to-day life. You deserve a space for yourself to feel heard and supported.
Life can be hard, change is hard, loss is hard...navigating the exhaustion of the day-to-day is HARD. It is a giant step to seek support; I am glad you found my page. Creating a warm, supportive, and authentic therapeutic space is super important to me as a therapist. I strive to help individuals struggling with life's challenges and transitions. My goal is to come along side you and support you as you process, learn, heal, and grow in a therapeutic setting so that you can gain coping skills to thrive in your day-to-day life. You deserve a space for yourself to feel heard and supported.
(949) 353-6520 View (949) 353-6520
Photo of Vicki Asher Wills, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dana Point, CA
Vicki Asher Wills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92624
Clients looking for help with relationship difficulties, depression or anxiety, Parenting issues, life transitions, grief, feelings of emptiness, stress management, and compulsive behaviors can learn to take back control, change faulty thinking, and make the steps necessary to lead more fulfilling lives and relationships.
Sometimes life hands you situations that pop the lid off your typical ability to manage. You may need to learn some new skills and have an experienced objective perspective to get to feeling better about your life and relationships. That's where I can help. My cooperative approach to therapy is individually tailored to work with you to give you the support you need, teach you new skills, and provide feedback that can help you make changes.
Clients looking for help with relationship difficulties, depression or anxiety, Parenting issues, life transitions, grief, feelings of emptiness, stress management, and compulsive behaviors can learn to take back control, change faulty thinking, and make the steps necessary to lead more fulfilling lives and relationships.
Sometimes life hands you situations that pop the lid off your typical ability to manage. You may need to learn some new skills and have an experienced objective perspective to get to feeling better about your life and relationships. That's where I can help. My cooperative approach to therapy is individually tailored to work with you to give you the support you need, teach you new skills, and provide feedback that can help you make changes.
(949) 288-8986 View (949) 288-8986
Photo of Karen M Schadrack, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dana Point, CA
Karen M Schadrack
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92624  (Online Only)
I have been a practicing Marriage Family Therapist in privite practice for over 20 years. My specialities include, but not limited to: marriage, pre marital, and restoration of marriage after crises. Individual specialities include depression, anxiety, grief recovery and women's issues.
I have been a practicing Marriage Family Therapist in privite practice for over 20 years. My specialities include, but not limited to: marriage, pre marital, and restoration of marriage after crises. Individual specialities include depression, anxiety, grief recovery and women's issues.
(949) 558-2078 View (949) 558-2078
Photo of Nina L. Dickerson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dana Point, CA
Nina L. Dickerson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629
As a therapist my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life you enjoy celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to develop coping skills and resolve behavior patterns and negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I have over 10 years of experience helping clients with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, marital issues, infidelity, career plans, parenting, teen issues, life transitions such as launching into adulthood and redefining relationships in the event of separation or divorce. I look forward to working with you.
As a therapist my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life you enjoy celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to develop coping skills and resolve behavior patterns and negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I have over 10 years of experience helping clients with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, marital issues, infidelity, career plans, parenting, teen issues, life transitions such as launching into adulthood and redefining relationships in the event of separation or divorce. I look forward to working with you.
(949) 427-2579 View (949) 427-2579
Photo of KrisTina Brosius-Rodriguez, Psychologist in Dana Point, CA
KrisTina Brosius-Rodriguez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dana Point, CA 92629  (Online Only)
I have been helping patients deal with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, infertility, grief, and adjustment issues for 30 years. I really enjoy seeing a patient improve their coping skills and thereby improve their life. Most of my new patients say that I put them at ease and they are very comfortable with me.
I have been helping patients deal with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, infertility, grief, and adjustment issues for 30 years. I really enjoy seeing a patient improve their coping skills and thereby improve their life. Most of my new patients say that I put them at ease and they are very comfortable with me.
(714) 676-8377 View (714) 676-8377
Photo of Mary Christie, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Dana Point, CA
Mary Christie
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629
Located in San Clemente, I have a supportive, direct and caring approach to counseling. I have been practicing psychotherapy for 30years and truly enjoy assisting clients in their quality of life. I specialize in helping those who have depression, anxiety, problems with anger management, and those affected by domestic violence. I am certified in treating trauma, PTSD and grief with the use of EMDR. I have 5 years direct experience in working with persons diagnosed with Attachment Disorder. I work with children, adolescents and adults, in individual, couples, and family therapy. My goal is to be your ally in the healing process.
Located in San Clemente, I have a supportive, direct and caring approach to counseling. I have been practicing psychotherapy for 30years and truly enjoy assisting clients in their quality of life. I specialize in helping those who have depression, anxiety, problems with anger management, and those affected by domestic violence. I am certified in treating trauma, PTSD and grief with the use of EMDR. I have 5 years direct experience in working with persons diagnosed with Attachment Disorder. I work with children, adolescents and adults, in individual, couples, and family therapy. My goal is to be your ally in the healing process.
(714) 947-1068 View (714) 947-1068
Photo of Karen Smith Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dana Point, CA
Karen Smith Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dana Point, CA 92629  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I typically work with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, addiction, college life, relationship/dating issues, grief, family problems, women's issues, low self-esteem, codependency, and more.
My name is Karen Smith, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT138686), who is passionate about helping clients discover, or rediscover, their inner strength, and heal anything that is unresolved. My approach to providing therapy is taking a look at the whole picture, including the client's childhood, worldview, and current problem areas, and clearing out anything that could be holding them back from happiness and peace. I use EMDR, CBT, DBT, Psychoanalysis, and more, to uncover what led to the current undesirable thoughts and behaviors.
I typically work with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, addiction, college life, relationship/dating issues, grief, family problems, women's issues, low self-esteem, codependency, and more.
My name is Karen Smith, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT138686), who is passionate about helping clients discover, or rediscover, their inner strength, and heal anything that is unresolved. My approach to providing therapy is taking a look at the whole picture, including the client's childhood, worldview, and current problem areas, and clearing out anything that could be holding them back from happiness and peace. I use EMDR, CBT, DBT, Psychoanalysis, and more, to uncover what led to the current undesirable thoughts and behaviors.
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Photo of Madeleine Harvey, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Dana Point, CA
Madeleine Harvey
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dana Point, CA 92629
I am honored to work with those going through life-stage changes, difficult medical crisis, and grief; areas of emphasis in my practice.
I am passionate about walking alongside individuals and couples on their path of self-understanding, healing and wholeness. By creating a space that feels safe and comfortable, I provide a peaceful place to explore life's challenging circumstances, recognize areas of growth, develop self-acceptance, and lean into strengths. I am certified in Restoration Therapy, By discovering the "how and why" of emotional triggers that highjack relationships , the cycles that repeat themselves can undergo lasting change toward healing and healthy relationships.
I am honored to work with those going through life-stage changes, difficult medical crisis, and grief; areas of emphasis in my practice.
I am passionate about walking alongside individuals and couples on their path of self-understanding, healing and wholeness. By creating a space that feels safe and comfortable, I provide a peaceful place to explore life's challenging circumstances, recognize areas of growth, develop self-acceptance, and lean into strengths. I am certified in Restoration Therapy, By discovering the "how and why" of emotional triggers that highjack relationships , the cycles that repeat themselves can undergo lasting change toward healing and healthy relationships.
(949) 694-6933 View (949) 694-6933
Photo of Maureen Aquilina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dana Point, CA
Maureen Aquilina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629
Waitlist for new clients
I embrace a compassionate, non-judgmental and collaborative approach to therapy. My practice includes working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, aging and bereavement. As humans we experience a full range of emotions - no emotion is without purpose.
I embrace a compassionate, non-judgmental and collaborative approach to therapy. My practice includes working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, aging and bereavement. As humans we experience a full range of emotions - no emotion is without purpose.
(949) 264-5847 View (949) 264-5847
Photo of Kendall Raymond, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Dana Point, CA
Kendall Raymond
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dana Point, CA 92629
Welcome! I celebrate you for being here. Perhaps your childhood was very hard and you’ve noticed things from your past start to resurface or maybe your child is now struggling emotionally for a variety of reasons and you’re at a loss with how to help them. Dealing with life’s complex and ever-changing struggles, healing emotional wounds or overcoming negative thoughts are all things that should not be faced alone. Human beings of all ages and walks of life can experience pain, isolation, fear, feeling lost or uncertain about themselves, and among many other internal challenges.
Welcome! I celebrate you for being here. Perhaps your childhood was very hard and you’ve noticed things from your past start to resurface or maybe your child is now struggling emotionally for a variety of reasons and you’re at a loss with how to help them. Dealing with life’s complex and ever-changing struggles, healing emotional wounds or overcoming negative thoughts are all things that should not be faced alone. Human beings of all ages and walks of life can experience pain, isolation, fear, feeling lost or uncertain about themselves, and among many other internal challenges.
(949) 998-4751 View (949) 998-4751
Photo of Journey to Peace Therapy, Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dana Point, CA
Journey to Peace Therapy, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome to Journey to Peace Therapy, Inc. My name is Jennifer Bouras, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, based in Orange County, CA. I commend you on your bravery and if you feel a bit nervous please know that is a very normal feeling! I assure you that you have found a safe place to land, rest, and begin to heal. Are you feeling overwhelmed, life is a bit "much" and finding it difficult to cope? Maybe you are experiencing anxiety, physical symptoms, or depression? Perhaps past trauma is resurfacing, or you are going through a major life transition such as death/grief, divorce, job loss, etc.
Hello and welcome to Journey to Peace Therapy, Inc. My name is Jennifer Bouras, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, based in Orange County, CA. I commend you on your bravery and if you feel a bit nervous please know that is a very normal feeling! I assure you that you have found a safe place to land, rest, and begin to heal. Are you feeling overwhelmed, life is a bit "much" and finding it difficult to cope? Maybe you are experiencing anxiety, physical symptoms, or depression? Perhaps past trauma is resurfacing, or you are going through a major life transition such as death/grief, divorce, job loss, etc.
(949) 704-5919 View (949) 704-5919
Photo of Megan Pierce, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Dana Point, CA
Megan Pierce
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dana Point, CA 92624
I specialize in anxiety, depression, career changes, life transitions, trauma, grief, body image and self esteem, eating disorders, and general phase of life issues.
You don't have to struggle alone! Right now you may be feeling, anxious, sad, or not like yourself. Maybe you or your child are having a hard time with a transition, struggling at school or work or feeling down. Or, maybe your home or work life is bringing you to a place of stress, anxiety, or depression. Perhaps you simply feel stuck and aren't sure what to do next. My goal as a therapist is to understand your unique story and support you in finding growth and healing. I ultimately want you to feel heard and to know that I am 100% on your team! I work with adults, children and adolescents. I specialize in young adults and teens.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, career changes, life transitions, trauma, grief, body image and self esteem, eating disorders, and general phase of life issues.
You don't have to struggle alone! Right now you may be feeling, anxious, sad, or not like yourself. Maybe you or your child are having a hard time with a transition, struggling at school or work or feeling down. Or, maybe your home or work life is bringing you to a place of stress, anxiety, or depression. Perhaps you simply feel stuck and aren't sure what to do next. My goal as a therapist is to understand your unique story and support you in finding growth and healing. I ultimately want you to feel heard and to know that I am 100% on your team! I work with adults, children and adolescents. I specialize in young adults and teens.
(949) 997-3933 View (949) 997-3933
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.