Grief Therapists in Gaviota, CA

Photo of Clinton Doyle Hollister, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Clinton Doyle Hollister
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gaviota, CA 93117  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Whenever people come to see me, I am always impressed by their courage. No matter what the problems are, most everyone enters therapy from a confused and vulnerable space. To do so takes courage. In knowing this, I work to honor their vulnerability and courage. I know that by providing a grounded, attentive, and focused presence to those I work with, trust will occur between us, and we can all be more free to address whatever the pain may be. Without this foundation of trust, I will not be able to effectively help at all.
Whenever people come to see me, I am always impressed by their courage. No matter what the problems are, most everyone enters therapy from a confused and vulnerable space. To do so takes courage. In knowing this, I work to honor their vulnerability and courage. I know that by providing a grounded, attentive, and focused presence to those I work with, trust will occur between us, and we can all be more free to address whatever the pain may be. Without this foundation of trust, I will not be able to effectively help at all.
(805) 214-6563 View (805) 214-6563

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ivan Chan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ivan Chan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Goleta, CA 93110  (Online Only)
I have survived my own losses, depression, and anxiety to know that a better life is possible.
If you are in the grips of anxiety, troubled relationships, grief, or other issues that threaten to overwhelm your ability to function or be happy in your life, I look forward to working with you in a safe and non-judgmental way. I use a collaborative approach and actively seek your feedback to provide you with therapy that matches your needs and respects your goals.
I have survived my own losses, depression, and anxiety to know that a better life is possible.
If you are in the grips of anxiety, troubled relationships, grief, or other issues that threaten to overwhelm your ability to function or be happy in your life, I look forward to working with you in a safe and non-judgmental way. I use a collaborative approach and actively seek your feedback to provide you with therapy that matches your needs and respects your goals.
(805) 623-4364 View (805) 623-4364
Photo of Kathleen Mintzer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Mintzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with adults who are ready and willing to work on issues that stand in their way of being content in their lives. I work with individuals who are often dealing with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, medical issues, relationship problems, work or school difficulties, grief, loss and/or change. If you would like things to be different in your life and are ready to see if we can work together, please give me a call.
I enjoy working with adults who are ready and willing to work on issues that stand in their way of being content in their lives. I work with individuals who are often dealing with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, medical issues, relationship problems, work or school difficulties, grief, loss and/or change. If you would like things to be different in your life and are ready to see if we can work together, please give me a call.
(805) 813-8482 View (805) 813-8482
Photo of Jane Winston Doman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jane Winston Doman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Goleta, CA 93117
Hello, I am Jane Winston Doman a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist in the state of California. I have worked with adults, couples, older adults, and caregivers. I specialize in coping with life transitions including stress, anxiety, depression, loss, grief, relationship, and aging issues. I work collaboratively with you to find appropriate strategies and insight to help you with your goals. I have found that my life experience has led me to be helpful with the transitions of life. I returned to Graduate School as an adult later in life.
Hello, I am Jane Winston Doman a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist in the state of California. I have worked with adults, couples, older adults, and caregivers. I specialize in coping with life transitions including stress, anxiety, depression, loss, grief, relationship, and aging issues. I work collaboratively with you to find appropriate strategies and insight to help you with your goals. I have found that my life experience has led me to be helpful with the transitions of life. I returned to Graduate School as an adult later in life.
(760) 383-8396 View (760) 383-8396
Photo of Hillary Van Horn-Gatlin, PhD, Psychologist
Hillary Van Horn-Gatlin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93106  (Online Only)
Viktor Frankl noted "Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom." With more than 15 years in practice focusing on healthcare providers, patients and families experiencing significant stress, loss, and life-threatening and end-of-life decision making, I have seen the full scope of human suffering, resilience, compassion and grace. Our time together will be spent unpacking these moments and how they have shaped our pain, our lives and our hopes within experiences outside our own control.
Viktor Frankl noted "Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom." With more than 15 years in practice focusing on healthcare providers, patients and families experiencing significant stress, loss, and life-threatening and end-of-life decision making, I have seen the full scope of human suffering, resilience, compassion and grace. Our time together will be spent unpacking these moments and how they have shaped our pain, our lives and our hopes within experiences outside our own control.
(805) 215-1169 View (805) 215-1169
Photo of Brooke Sears, PsyD, Psychologist
Brooke Sears
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Goleta, CA 93110
From birth through death, each stage of life is dynamic and valuable. Through these stages, we sometimes encounter challenges beyond our own capacity and we need to reach out for help. I believe in healing. I believe we all have the capacity to recover and learn deeply about ourselves through our most challenging experiences. I enjoy working with people of all ages and in all life stages.
From birth through death, each stage of life is dynamic and valuable. Through these stages, we sometimes encounter challenges beyond our own capacity and we need to reach out for help. I believe in healing. I believe we all have the capacity to recover and learn deeply about ourselves through our most challenging experiences. I enjoy working with people of all ages and in all life stages.
(805) 774-1258 View (805) 774-1258
Photo of Dani Antman, SEP
Dani Antman
SEP
Verified Verified
Goleta, CA 93117
Have you experienced a crisis in your life, due to overwhelming life events, illness or loss? Do you need relief from internal pain and suffering? I can help. I have successfully treated hundreds of people using a combination of energy healing and spiritual counseling. My practice is based in Santa Barbara Ca, but I work on Zoom and phone with people around the world. Energy work is received long distance and is palpable! My clients report a sense of peace, clarity and connection after a session with me.
Have you experienced a crisis in your life, due to overwhelming life events, illness or loss? Do you need relief from internal pain and suffering? I can help. I have successfully treated hundreds of people using a combination of energy healing and spiritual counseling. My practice is based in Santa Barbara Ca, but I work on Zoom and phone with people around the world. Energy work is received long distance and is palpable! My clients report a sense of peace, clarity and connection after a session with me.
(805) 210-8386 View (805) 210-8386
Photo of Sara Tousi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Tousi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93117
I often work with individuals that struggle with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, and with individuals that are experiencing grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, and relationship and work stressors.
My name is Sara Tousi, and I am an LCSW. As a clinical social worker, supporting clients to overcome barriers to their various treatments is an important aspect and an integral part of my social work practice. I have over 15 years of experience working with clients from various backgrounds. I have vast experience working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders and as well as with individuals that are experiencing grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, and relationship and work stressors. I utilize a variety of therapy modalities in order to support clients in meeting their treatment goals.
I often work with individuals that struggle with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, and with individuals that are experiencing grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, and relationship and work stressors.
My name is Sara Tousi, and I am an LCSW. As a clinical social worker, supporting clients to overcome barriers to their various treatments is an important aspect and an integral part of my social work practice. I have over 15 years of experience working with clients from various backgrounds. I have vast experience working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders and as well as with individuals that are experiencing grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, and relationship and work stressors. I utilize a variety of therapy modalities in order to support clients in meeting their treatment goals.
(323) 205-7791 View (323) 205-7791
Photo of Candace Redcliff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Candace Redcliff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Goleta, CA 93117
Trauma, loss, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties.
When I was age 18, I went into therapy with a wonderful woman. She help me gain direction for my life, helped improve my self-esteem. Gave me hope for the future I became a resilient person. Life continues to be fun despite the heartaches. I want to help others in this way. I use many therapeutic approaches based on the individuals I see. To name a few: Reality therapy, CBT, psychodynamic. I care about their safety, what is important to them. That they will not be judged. That there is hope for their lives to change in the ways, that they choose. That if they try new behaviors, they will feel better. Connect more with others.
Trauma, loss, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties.
When I was age 18, I went into therapy with a wonderful woman. She help me gain direction for my life, helped improve my self-esteem. Gave me hope for the future I became a resilient person. Life continues to be fun despite the heartaches. I want to help others in this way. I use many therapeutic approaches based on the individuals I see. To name a few: Reality therapy, CBT, psychodynamic. I care about their safety, what is important to them. That they will not be judged. That there is hope for their lives to change in the ways, that they choose. That if they try new behaviors, they will feel better. Connect more with others.
(805) 301-7402 View (805) 301-7402
Photo of Jenny Hislop, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenny Hislop
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Goleta, CA 93117  (Online Only)
I support individuals struggling with aspects of identity, family-of-origin issues, relationship challenges, overwhelming life transitions, marginalization, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief.
I help people come home to themselves. Life's challenges can leave us questioning our intuition and values and impact our self-worth, relationships, and well-being. Perhaps this is due to a difficult upbringing, perhaps due to trauma and loss, or it may be due to external stressors such as marginalization and oppression. I help clients to find their voice, re-discover self-trust, uncover inner wisdom, and cultivate strength and balance. Together we will explore your experiences, nurture inner resources, and identify and resolve destructive patterns that impact your relationships.
I support individuals struggling with aspects of identity, family-of-origin issues, relationship challenges, overwhelming life transitions, marginalization, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief.
I help people come home to themselves. Life's challenges can leave us questioning our intuition and values and impact our self-worth, relationships, and well-being. Perhaps this is due to a difficult upbringing, perhaps due to trauma and loss, or it may be due to external stressors such as marginalization and oppression. I help clients to find their voice, re-discover self-trust, uncover inner wisdom, and cultivate strength and balance. Together we will explore your experiences, nurture inner resources, and identify and resolve destructive patterns that impact your relationships.
(805) 266-7273 View (805) 266-7273
Photo of Haley Beckwith, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Haley Beckwith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Goleta, CA 93117  (Online Only)
Some of my specialized focuses include - EMDR * Getting In Touch and Organizing Big Emotions * Self-Examining/ Self- Exploration* Disappointment/ Grief/ Uncertainty/ Loss * Anxiety and Fear * Interpersonal Trauma * Relational Challenges * Abuse and Assault.
I am Haley Beckwith, a licensed therapist and EMDRIA certified EMDR clinician serving both Santa Barbara, CA & Bend, OR. I specialize in working with young adults and adult trauma. People seek therapy for a number of reasons, simply put, therapy is often initiated because something in our lives is not working and we want to feel better. Therapy can help you better understand yourself, heal areas that cause pain, and help you find the self direction needed to live you best, most fulfilled life. I would be honored to guide you on your journey to healing, personal growth and happiness. Accepting OR clients starting mid February.
Some of my specialized focuses include - EMDR * Getting In Touch and Organizing Big Emotions * Self-Examining/ Self- Exploration* Disappointment/ Grief/ Uncertainty/ Loss * Anxiety and Fear * Interpersonal Trauma * Relational Challenges * Abuse and Assault.
I am Haley Beckwith, a licensed therapist and EMDRIA certified EMDR clinician serving both Santa Barbara, CA & Bend, OR. I specialize in working with young adults and adult trauma. People seek therapy for a number of reasons, simply put, therapy is often initiated because something in our lives is not working and we want to feel better. Therapy can help you better understand yourself, heal areas that cause pain, and help you find the self direction needed to live you best, most fulfilled life. I would be honored to guide you on your journey to healing, personal growth and happiness. Accepting OR clients starting mid February.
(619) 430-2507 View (619) 430-2507
New Beginnings Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Goleta, CA 93117
We offer confidential psychological counseling and assessment services to individuals, couples and families in the greater Santa Barbara area. Experienced counselors are here to help clients explore life transitions, relationship issues and a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, abuse, compulsive behaviors, substance use, job loss and stress, aging, isolation and anger management. Many clients experience a 15% reduction in overall distress after only eight sessions. Counselors are ready and able to serve you. We will match your needs with the education and experience of our clinicians to find the best person to assist you.
We offer confidential psychological counseling and assessment services to individuals, couples and families in the greater Santa Barbara area. Experienced counselors are here to help clients explore life transitions, relationship issues and a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, abuse, compulsive behaviors, substance use, job loss and stress, aging, isolation and anger management. Many clients experience a 15% reduction in overall distress after only eight sessions. Counselors are ready and able to serve you. We will match your needs with the education and experience of our clinicians to find the best person to assist you.
(805) 669-9352 View (805) 669-9352
Photo of Andrea Mcgee - Dre McGee Psychotherapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dre McGee Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Goleta, CA 93117
I understand that the first step in seeking help can be overwhelming or even scary. I have a great respect for those who seek to improve their quality of life. My life's work is dedicated to help facilitate that process and help collaborate to create clarity. I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist providing psychotherapy to individuals and couples. I work and have experience with a wide variety of situations and life issues; depression, anxiety, transitions, burnout, relationship dynamics, adoption, and more. Specialties of mine include premarital counseling, young adult/college age concerns & transitions, EMDR, grief & polyam couples.
I understand that the first step in seeking help can be overwhelming or even scary. I have a great respect for those who seek to improve their quality of life. My life's work is dedicated to help facilitate that process and help collaborate to create clarity. I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist providing psychotherapy to individuals and couples. I work and have experience with a wide variety of situations and life issues; depression, anxiety, transitions, burnout, relationship dynamics, adoption, and more. Specialties of mine include premarital counseling, young adult/college age concerns & transitions, EMDR, grief & polyam couples.
(805) 290-1533 View (805) 290-1533
Photo of Brandy Head, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandy Head
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Goleta, CA 93117
My name is Brandy Head. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with about a decade of experience. Treatment style is adapted to meet your needs, not mine. You will always find me warm, accepting, and open to assist you with any goals that you have. I enjoy helping clients overcome challenges related to aging, grief, mood disorders, role changes, stress, medical challenges, and relationship issues. I have enjoyed working with veterans, caregivers, parents, partners, and adult children.
My name is Brandy Head. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with about a decade of experience. Treatment style is adapted to meet your needs, not mine. You will always find me warm, accepting, and open to assist you with any goals that you have. I enjoy helping clients overcome challenges related to aging, grief, mood disorders, role changes, stress, medical challenges, and relationship issues. I have enjoyed working with veterans, caregivers, parents, partners, and adult children.
(805) 332-4708 View (805) 332-4708
Photo of Kemi Ayanfalu, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kemi Ayanfalu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93117
My name is Kemi Ayanfalu, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California with over 10 years of experience. I have a Masters in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflict, behavioral challenges, abandonment, rejection, grief, generational trauma, suicidal or homicidal ideations. Trauma impacts overall functioning. Using my strong background in trauma-informed care, I have created a counseling style that is genuine, individualistic, and encouraging.
My name is Kemi Ayanfalu, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California with over 10 years of experience. I have a Masters in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflict, behavioral challenges, abandonment, rejection, grief, generational trauma, suicidal or homicidal ideations. Trauma impacts overall functioning. Using my strong background in trauma-informed care, I have created a counseling style that is genuine, individualistic, and encouraging.
(530) 444-8754 View (530) 444-8754
Photo of Isabella Lin, PhD, Psychologist
Isabella Lin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Goleta, CA 93117
My areas of clinical expertise include anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, substance abuse, personality disorders, grief, post-traumatic stress disorder, interpersonal violence, and issues faced by new immigrants, international students, Asian-Americans, and women of color.
I am a licensed psychologist in California. I have worked at a hospital, three university counseling centers, and a shelter for victims of domestic violence. I have provided psychological services to a very diverse mix of clients and enjoy working with people of all backgrounds. My clinical training has included individual psychotherapy, couples and group counseling, psychological assessment, multicultural counseling, crisis intervention, and outcome research. My therapeutic approach combines Adlerian, Cognitive-Behavioral and Humanistic Psychologies, frequently using hypnosis as an adjunct. I have also conducted research in hypnosis and partner abuse. In addition to English, I am fluent in Taiwanese and Mandarin Chinese.
My areas of clinical expertise include anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, substance abuse, personality disorders, grief, post-traumatic stress disorder, interpersonal violence, and issues faced by new immigrants, international students, Asian-Americans, and women of color.
I am a licensed psychologist in California. I have worked at a hospital, three university counseling centers, and a shelter for victims of domestic violence. I have provided psychological services to a very diverse mix of clients and enjoy working with people of all backgrounds. My clinical training has included individual psychotherapy, couples and group counseling, psychological assessment, multicultural counseling, crisis intervention, and outcome research. My therapeutic approach combines Adlerian, Cognitive-Behavioral and Humanistic Psychologies, frequently using hypnosis as an adjunct. I have also conducted research in hypnosis and partner abuse. In addition to English, I am fluent in Taiwanese and Mandarin Chinese.
(805) 804-5110 View (805) 804-5110
Photo of Steve Smith - Hosford Counseling & Psychological Services Clinic, PhD, Psychologist
Hosford Counseling & Psychological Services Clinic
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93106
Our Trauma Recovery and Resilience center helps those who have been impacted by trauma, violence, loss and other adversities.
The Hosford Clinic is a university-based community clinic that provides affordable mental health services to people in the Santa Barbara area (including Isla Vista, Goleta and Carpinteria). We offer counseling and treatment services for individuals, couples, adolescents, children, and families. These services are evidence based, culturally-responsive and low-cost. We provide a safe space for you to talk privately about your worries and concerns and can help by: *asking questions that help you see your problem in new ways; *teaching you effective ways to cope; *coaching you in ways to improve your work, school, and home life.
Our Trauma Recovery and Resilience center helps those who have been impacted by trauma, violence, loss and other adversities.
The Hosford Clinic is a university-based community clinic that provides affordable mental health services to people in the Santa Barbara area (including Isla Vista, Goleta and Carpinteria). We offer counseling and treatment services for individuals, couples, adolescents, children, and families. These services are evidence based, culturally-responsive and low-cost. We provide a safe space for you to talk privately about your worries and concerns and can help by: *asking questions that help you see your problem in new ways; *teaching you effective ways to cope; *coaching you in ways to improve your work, school, and home life.
(805) 351-4714 View (805) 351-4714
Photo of Rachel Rousseau, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Rousseau
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Goleta, CA 93117
Are you experiencing emotional pain that has become too amplified to sustain in silence? Perhaps the burdens you have been carrying for so long are finally too heavy to manage alone. Unresolved past experiences, loss, dysfunctional relationships, and negative self-criticism can hinder our ability to navigate the difficulties life throws our way. Let’s work together to create a therapeutic relationship built on hope and trust.
Are you experiencing emotional pain that has become too amplified to sustain in silence? Perhaps the burdens you have been carrying for so long are finally too heavy to manage alone. Unresolved past experiences, loss, dysfunctional relationships, and negative self-criticism can hinder our ability to navigate the difficulties life throws our way. Let’s work together to create a therapeutic relationship built on hope and trust.
(805) 695-3187 View (805) 695-3187
Photo of Kathryn (Katie) Pazan, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kathryn (Katie) Pazan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Goleta, CA 93117
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in anxiety, OCD, PTSD, parenting and behavior support, life transitions, emotional distress, and grief and loss.
The experience of psychotherapy can be transformative for individuals and families of all ages and stages of life. I hope to provide a safe space for you to learn, heal, and grow while processing issues or challenges that are significant to you. I will support you in embracing compassion and acceptance for yourself in the midst of your life journey, so you can lead a joyful, productive, and meaningful life. In addition to working with adults, I am passionate about working with children, teens, young adults, and families. I believe a collaborative, systemic approach is essential for change.
I specialize in anxiety, OCD, PTSD, parenting and behavior support, life transitions, emotional distress, and grief and loss.
The experience of psychotherapy can be transformative for individuals and families of all ages and stages of life. I hope to provide a safe space for you to learn, heal, and grow while processing issues or challenges that are significant to you. I will support you in embracing compassion and acceptance for yourself in the midst of your life journey, so you can lead a joyful, productive, and meaningful life. In addition to working with adults, I am passionate about working with children, teens, young adults, and families. I believe a collaborative, systemic approach is essential for change.
(805) 600-3274 View (805) 600-3274
Photo of Maxwell Sleep-Frankel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maxwell Sleep-Frankel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Goleta, CA 93117
I primarily have worked with older adults and adults with disabilities, who are navigating the many losses that can be challenging during this time period including retirement, bereavement of family/friends, loss of physical and cognitive functioning, and change of residence to name a few.
My name is Max Sleep-Frankel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); I am also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I have extensive experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities as they navigate the many life transitions that beset them during this time period. My approach to therapy is to serve as a guide to accomplishing your personal goals and living a more enriched life.
I primarily have worked with older adults and adults with disabilities, who are navigating the many losses that can be challenging during this time period including retirement, bereavement of family/friends, loss of physical and cognitive functioning, and change of residence to name a few.
My name is Max Sleep-Frankel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); I am also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I have extensive experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities as they navigate the many life transitions that beset them during this time period. My approach to therapy is to serve as a guide to accomplishing your personal goals and living a more enriched life.
(805) 510-7694 View (805) 510-7694
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.