Photo of Yashwanthi Mirji, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Yashwanthi Mirji
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93727
Hello, my name is Yashwanthi “Yash” Mirji. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice based in Simi Valley, California. I provide individual, couples and family psychotherapy via Telehealth, In office and hybrid. My areas of specialty are grief/loss, trauma, and disorders such as ADD, Bi-polar, OCD, Depression and Anxiety. I specialize in treating unresolved trauma, complex grief, chronic stress, Attention Deficit Disorder, Bipolar, relationship issues and symptoms that overlap this like depression, anxiety.
Hello, my name is Yashwanthi “Yash” Mirji. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice based in Simi Valley, California. I provide individual, couples and family psychotherapy via Telehealth, In office and hybrid. My areas of specialty are grief/loss, trauma, and disorders such as ADD, Bi-polar, OCD, Depression and Anxiety. I specialize in treating unresolved trauma, complex grief, chronic stress, Attention Deficit Disorder, Bipolar, relationship issues and symptoms that overlap this like depression, anxiety.
(559) 377-7143 View (559) 377-7143
Photo of Margot Tepperman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Margot Tepperman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW, ACC
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93701
EMDR works on the physiological and emotional basis of problems to facilitate change in treatment of trauma, phobias, chronic pain, grief.
I provide a holistic counseling approach providing rapid, positive changes in areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, stress management, relationship, pain management and grief work with adults and children. My resources include the powerful technique of EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, as well as HYPNOSIS, visual imagery and new thought. Hypnosis is a powerful, effective and immediate tool to bring about profound change. It is useful for eliminating addictive behaviors, improving sports performance, reducing anxiety while giving presentations, taking tests and also used for post surgery healing.
EMDR works on the physiological and emotional basis of problems to facilitate change in treatment of trauma, phobias, chronic pain, grief.
I provide a holistic counseling approach providing rapid, positive changes in areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, stress management, relationship, pain management and grief work with adults and children. My resources include the powerful technique of EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, as well as HYPNOSIS, visual imagery and new thought. Hypnosis is a powerful, effective and immediate tool to bring about profound change. It is useful for eliminating addictive behaviors, improving sports performance, reducing anxiety while giving presentations, taking tests and also used for post surgery healing.
(559) 472-0863 View (559) 472-0863
Photo of Brandy Malloy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Brandy Malloy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93727
My name is Brandy Malloy, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Therapist. I enjoy working with clients who are seeking support and guidance with the following issues: Stress management, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, couples counseling, women's health issues, self-esteem issues, and boundary setting.
My name is Brandy Malloy, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Therapist. I enjoy working with clients who are seeking support and guidance with the following issues: Stress management, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, couples counseling, women's health issues, self-esteem issues, and boundary setting.
(559) 254-4235 View (559) 254-4235
Photo of Alicia Zuniga, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Alicia Zuniga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clovis, CA 93619
The majority of my practice is focused on the areas of anxiety, adjustment, grief, trauma, divorce, stress, ADHD, and depression.
Hello, my name is Alicia Zuniga. I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in treatment for children and families. My passion stems from more than 15 years of direct clinical work with children, teens, and families. The goal of treatment is an individual journey. It is my belief that the client leads the therapeutic process. I use CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused, Mindfulness, and play therapy. I am flexible and easygoing. The therapeutic environment is one that I hope is warm and welcoming. My priority is the client during their session and being present with them.
The majority of my practice is focused on the areas of anxiety, adjustment, grief, trauma, divorce, stress, ADHD, and depression.
Hello, my name is Alicia Zuniga. I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in treatment for children and families. My passion stems from more than 15 years of direct clinical work with children, teens, and families. The goal of treatment is an individual journey. It is my belief that the client leads the therapeutic process. I use CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused, Mindfulness, and play therapy. I am flexible and easygoing. The therapeutic environment is one that I hope is warm and welcoming. My priority is the client during their session and being present with them.
(559) 702-5549 View (559) 702-5549
Photo of Emily Gomez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Emily Gomez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clovis, CA 93612
I have also enjoyed working with people dealing with grief and loss, LGBTQA+, chronic illness, and mood disorders.
Hi, my name is Emily Gomez, LMFT and I have been practicing since 2006. I have worked in a variety of settings and specialties throughout my career, such as outpatient psychiatric, substance abuse recovery, IOP/PHP, and private practice, so I bring an eclectic approach to my work with clients. I believe therapy is a brave and rewarding growth opportunity for those who choose to take the journey!
I have also enjoyed working with people dealing with grief and loss, LGBTQA+, chronic illness, and mood disorders.
Hi, my name is Emily Gomez, LMFT and I have been practicing since 2006. I have worked in a variety of settings and specialties throughout my career, such as outpatient psychiatric, substance abuse recovery, IOP/PHP, and private practice, so I bring an eclectic approach to my work with clients. I believe therapy is a brave and rewarding growth opportunity for those who choose to take the journey!
(747) 281-2863 View (747) 281-2863
Photo of Kaixin Zoey Zhang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Kaixin Zoey Zhang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93727
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have a Master's of Social Work from San Diego State University. My specialties include depression, anxiety, trauma, immigration, cultural issues, crisis intervention, and grief/loss. I use a lot of CBT and EMDR as my therapeutic approach. I'm EMDR trained and very close to being certified. I like to use different approaches to tailor to my client's needs and preferences.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have a Master's of Social Work from San Diego State University. My specialties include depression, anxiety, trauma, immigration, cultural issues, crisis intervention, and grief/loss. I use a lot of CBT and EMDR as my therapeutic approach. I'm EMDR trained and very close to being certified. I like to use different approaches to tailor to my client's needs and preferences.
(559) 236-5773 View (559) 236-5773
Photo of Heather Rangel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Heather Rangel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93711  (Online Only)
I have nearly 19 years of experience and specialize in grief and loss, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, phase of life issues, peer relationships, coping skills, stress identification and reduction, trauma, and women's issues.
Thank you for taking the first step and being here. Are you experiencing hurdles in life such as work stress, family issues, or relationship difficulties/issues? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma or grief? Do you often find it difficult to find the words to describe your feelings? Or to open up to people and feel a connection with them? Most likely, you've answered yes to at least one of these areas of concern. You are not alone; in the emotions, experiences, and pain that comes with life. I believe that every person who seeks counseling has their own answers to their unique situations.
I have nearly 19 years of experience and specialize in grief and loss, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, phase of life issues, peer relationships, coping skills, stress identification and reduction, trauma, and women's issues.
Thank you for taking the first step and being here. Are you experiencing hurdles in life such as work stress, family issues, or relationship difficulties/issues? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma or grief? Do you often find it difficult to find the words to describe your feelings? Or to open up to people and feel a connection with them? Most likely, you've answered yes to at least one of these areas of concern. You are not alone; in the emotions, experiences, and pain that comes with life. I believe that every person who seeks counseling has their own answers to their unique situations.
(559) 245-5191 View (559) 245-5191
Photo of Elizabeth Cowell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Elizabeth Cowell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clovis, CA 93619
My name is Elizabeth Cowell. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I utilized CBT and EMDR mainly to work with trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief. I also use Gottman and EFT to work with couples. My approach to therapy is influenced by Aaron Beck who founded Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Many people struggle with misconceptions about themselves. These misconceptions are created by the environment. I use CBT to help people change those misconceptions so that they can feel better about themselves and have a more positive outlook on life.
My name is Elizabeth Cowell. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I utilized CBT and EMDR mainly to work with trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief. I also use Gottman and EFT to work with couples. My approach to therapy is influenced by Aaron Beck who founded Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Many people struggle with misconceptions about themselves. These misconceptions are created by the environment. I use CBT to help people change those misconceptions so that they can feel better about themselves and have a more positive outlook on life.
(831) 292-3342 View (831) 292-3342
Photo of Anna Chung, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Anna Chung
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93702
I like to work with a diverse population in the areas as follows: Relationship Issues, Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions, Self-Esteem, Spirituality, Group Therapy.
Munju Anna Chung, LCSW 114974. Hello! I prefer to be called "Anna." I enjoy servicing a diverse population and have worked with adults (18 and up) with OCD, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My approach to therapy is holistic and trauma-informed. My approach to therapy is holistic and integrative. Some common theoretical approaches I use are Exposure and Response Prevention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-Focused, and Trauma and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Informed.
I like to work with a diverse population in the areas as follows: Relationship Issues, Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions, Self-Esteem, Spirituality, Group Therapy.
Munju Anna Chung, LCSW 114974. Hello! I prefer to be called "Anna." I enjoy servicing a diverse population and have worked with adults (18 and up) with OCD, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My approach to therapy is holistic and trauma-informed. My approach to therapy is holistic and integrative. Some common theoretical approaches I use are Exposure and Response Prevention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-Focused, and Trauma and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Informed.
(714) 924-3574 View (714) 924-3574
Photo of Todd Cospewicz, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Fresno County, CA
Todd Cospewicz
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93705
Todd has extensive experience working with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/ADD, Mood Disorders, Chronic Pain and Disability, Grief, Loss and other Adjustments and Life Transitions,.
Todd Cospewicz is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the State of California, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Nevada, and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Colorado He received his Master of Science in Counseling from California State University, Los Angeles with a concentration in Mental Health Counseling and a Minor in Rehabilitation Counseling. He believes in the unique experiences that shape who we are through life experiences that develop core beliefs.
Todd has extensive experience working with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/ADD, Mood Disorders, Chronic Pain and Disability, Grief, Loss and other Adjustments and Life Transitions,.
Todd Cospewicz is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the State of California, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Nevada, and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Colorado He received his Master of Science in Counseling from California State University, Los Angeles with a concentration in Mental Health Counseling and a Minor in Rehabilitation Counseling. He believes in the unique experiences that shape who we are through life experiences that develop core beliefs.
(657) 571-3366 View (657) 571-3366
Photo of Carla Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Carla Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93720
Welcome; I am excited to connect and have the opportunity to support you during this period of exploration, growth, and transition. I am Carla Johnson, and I have two decades of experience helping folks make life changes and providing counseling. I have focused on multigenerational trauma's impact on the individual, along with an emphasis on the importance of the mind, body, and spirit connection that is central to person-centered care. I have two decades of experience treating anxiety, burnout, depression, family conflict, grief, life transitions, sleep challenges, panic, stress, trauma, and women's issues.
Welcome; I am excited to connect and have the opportunity to support you during this period of exploration, growth, and transition. I am Carla Johnson, and I have two decades of experience helping folks make life changes and providing counseling. I have focused on multigenerational trauma's impact on the individual, along with an emphasis on the importance of the mind, body, and spirit connection that is central to person-centered care. I have two decades of experience treating anxiety, burnout, depression, family conflict, grief, life transitions, sleep challenges, panic, stress, trauma, and women's issues.
(818) 208-5761 View (818) 208-5761
Photo of Nicole Carmona, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Nicole Carmona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93720
I work with a diverse population and have a background in helping those struggling with crisis, depression, anxiety, Substance Use Disorder, trauma, grief and loss, and life transitions.
Thank you for stopping by! My name is Nicole Carmona, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) providing teletherapy services in California. A bit about my educational and professional background: I attended Azusa Pacific University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, followed by attending Cal State University, Fullerton, where I earned my Master in Social Work.
I work with a diverse population and have a background in helping those struggling with crisis, depression, anxiety, Substance Use Disorder, trauma, grief and loss, and life transitions.
Thank you for stopping by! My name is Nicole Carmona, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) providing teletherapy services in California. A bit about my educational and professional background: I attended Azusa Pacific University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, followed by attending Cal State University, Fullerton, where I earned my Master in Social Work.
(657) 571-3529 View (657) 571-3529
Photo of Denise Knight, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Denise Knight
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93711
My clients have been children, teens, and adults with a variety of presenting issues; including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and relationship and family issues.
My name is Denise Knight, I am a LMFT in the Los Angeles area. I have been practicing for 18 years. My experience comes from providing direct mental health and behavior therapy in various settings. I have provided individual, group, and family therapy in community health agencies, school settings, and recently for telemental health. My therapy style and approach draw influence from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focus, Mindfulness, and Family Interventions.
My clients have been children, teens, and adults with a variety of presenting issues; including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and relationship and family issues.
My name is Denise Knight, I am a LMFT in the Los Angeles area. I have been practicing for 18 years. My experience comes from providing direct mental health and behavior therapy in various settings. I have provided individual, group, and family therapy in community health agencies, school settings, and recently for telemental health. My therapy style and approach draw influence from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focus, Mindfulness, and Family Interventions.
(760) 813-3052 View (760) 813-3052
Photo of Monique Austria, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Monique Austria
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93726
I believe therapy has the potential to give us the power and tools to build the life we want for ourselves. Together we explore the past, present relationships and experiences which influence our thoughts and actions. As your therapist I guide you through life obstacles, past trauma, negative thoughts that hinder progress and undermine your confidence. I work with adult individuals who have experienced trauma, difficulty grieving, anxiety, work stress, recent loss, family stress, and feeling stuck in life.
I believe therapy has the potential to give us the power and tools to build the life we want for ourselves. Together we explore the past, present relationships and experiences which influence our thoughts and actions. As your therapist I guide you through life obstacles, past trauma, negative thoughts that hinder progress and undermine your confidence. I work with adult individuals who have experienced trauma, difficulty grieving, anxiety, work stress, recent loss, family stress, and feeling stuck in life.
(949) 919-6743 View (949) 919-6743
Photo of Jill Garman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Jill Garman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93711
Hello, I’m Jill Garman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I hope to serve as a compassionate and helpful guide toward your personal goals by helping you access your strengths and by developing new tools and skills that will serve you currently and in the future. For over 20 years I've provided an individualized approach to counseling those with varied levels of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, complicated grief, loss of purpose, loss of lifestyle, health decline, role or identity issues, and an abusive family history.
Hello, I’m Jill Garman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I hope to serve as a compassionate and helpful guide toward your personal goals by helping you access your strengths and by developing new tools and skills that will serve you currently and in the future. For over 20 years I've provided an individualized approach to counseling those with varied levels of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, complicated grief, loss of purpose, loss of lifestyle, health decline, role or identity issues, and an abusive family history.
(669) 322-8325 View (669) 322-8325
Photo of Gertrude Bonincontro, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Gertrude Bonincontro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Selma, CA 93662
My name is Gertrude (Trudy) Bonincontro and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology providing telehealth to adults in Northern California. I work with adults who are grieving the loss of their beloved one by having their grief witnessed. Grief is not something you get over, though, under, or around. Grief becomes a part of your life. I am a certified Grief Therapist and utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Narrative concepts to assist with managing grief symptoms of depression, anxiety, and anger.
My name is Gertrude (Trudy) Bonincontro and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology providing telehealth to adults in Northern California. I work with adults who are grieving the loss of their beloved one by having their grief witnessed. Grief is not something you get over, though, under, or around. Grief becomes a part of your life. I am a certified Grief Therapist and utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Narrative concepts to assist with managing grief symptoms of depression, anxiety, and anger.
(510) 598-3527 View (510) 598-3527
Photo of Chad Nelson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Chad Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93726
My experience ranges from treating substance abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/loss, personality disorders, and sexual and gender identity.
Chad Nelson, LMFT I am trained in providing Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT, and play therapy. I have experience providing school-based therapy, working with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. I focus on solution-focused and meet clients where they are at by setting realistic goals.
My experience ranges from treating substance abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/loss, personality disorders, and sexual and gender identity.
Chad Nelson, LMFT I am trained in providing Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT, and play therapy. I have experience providing school-based therapy, working with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. I focus on solution-focused and meet clients where they are at by setting realistic goals.
(747) 330-0379 View (747) 330-0379
Photo of Michael White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Michael White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clovis, CA 93619
I worked for many years with individuals coping with community violence, sexual exploitation, familial and romantic abuse, grief, major life transitions, and emotional dysregulation.
Hello! My name is Michael White, I am a licensed clinical social worker based out of California. The core of therapy to me is the forming of a meaningful bond between therapist and client that fosters trust, openness, and comfortability. I have extensive experience in assisting people with grief and loss, past and current trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and emotion regulation. My focal theoretical frameworks are DBT, Mindfulness, and CBT. I believe in meeting people where they are and having therapy be a collaborative process.
I worked for many years with individuals coping with community violence, sexual exploitation, familial and romantic abuse, grief, major life transitions, and emotional dysregulation.
Hello! My name is Michael White, I am a licensed clinical social worker based out of California. The core of therapy to me is the forming of a meaningful bond between therapist and client that fosters trust, openness, and comfortability. I have extensive experience in assisting people with grief and loss, past and current trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and emotion regulation. My focal theoretical frameworks are DBT, Mindfulness, and CBT. I believe in meeting people where they are and having therapy be a collaborative process.
(949) 779-6792 View (949) 779-6792
Photo of Julia Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Julia Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clovis, CA 93612
Hello, I'm Julia Garcia. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in the behavioral health field for more than 30 years, beginning as a resource outreach counselor, then eventually as a clinical therapist over the years, working with infants, adolescents, families, and women with trauma and SUD issues. I am a trauma-focused therapist who enjoys working with families and individuals. I utilized a trauma-focused approach to CBT, DBT, PCIT, Grief, and Parenting issues. I have found that CBT and DBT approaches work well to assist clients who have extensive trauma-based issues.
Hello, I'm Julia Garcia. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in the behavioral health field for more than 30 years, beginning as a resource outreach counselor, then eventually as a clinical therapist over the years, working with infants, adolescents, families, and women with trauma and SUD issues. I am a trauma-focused therapist who enjoys working with families and individuals. I utilized a trauma-focused approach to CBT, DBT, PCIT, Grief, and Parenting issues. I have found that CBT and DBT approaches work well to assist clients who have extensive trauma-based issues.
(916) 659-5523 View (916) 659-5523
Photo of Rachel Page, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fresno County, CA
Rachel Page
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93726
Hi! My name is Rachel, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing therapy since 2010 and am passionate about helping others. I help people with adolescent/teen issues, grief, self esteem, trauma and PTSD, job stress, and more. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings, including drug and alcohol rehabilitation, with adolescents in schools, and with domestic violence services. I practice Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-focused therapy. Using mindfulness and ACT skills, I explore the thoughts and beliefs that create stagnation.
Hi! My name is Rachel, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing therapy since 2010 and am passionate about helping others. I help people with adolescent/teen issues, grief, self esteem, trauma and PTSD, job stress, and more. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings, including drug and alcohol rehabilitation, with adolescents in schools, and with domestic violence services. I practice Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-focused therapy. Using mindfulness and ACT skills, I explore the thoughts and beliefs that create stagnation.
(661) 732-2011 View (661) 732-2011

See more therapy options for Fresno County

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.