Therapists in Kern County, CA

Photo of Amber Rose, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amber Rose
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
As someone who has personally experienced profound grief, I feel deeply called to support others navigating similar painful journeys.
I work with children, teens, and adults looking for Christ-centered professional therapy. Using a faith-based approach, I integrate therapeutic practices with biblical principles. Life in a fallen world is difficult, and so I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their struggles, build resilience, and find hope. Whether you're dealing with loss, overwhelming stress, or feelings of hopelessness, I am committed to walking alongside you on your journey to emotional and spiritual well-being.
As someone who has personally experienced profound grief, I feel deeply called to support others navigating similar painful journeys.
I work with children, teens, and adults looking for Christ-centered professional therapy. Using a faith-based approach, I integrate therapeutic practices with biblical principles. Life in a fallen world is difficult, and so I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their struggles, build resilience, and find hope. Whether you're dealing with loss, overwhelming stress, or feelings of hopelessness, I am committed to walking alongside you on your journey to emotional and spiritual well-being.
(661) 718-4885 View (661) 718-4885
Photo of Lynda Onyshko, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynda Onyshko
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Delano, CA 93215
Hi, my name is Lynda Onyshko, and I'm based in Ventura County and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adolescents, pre-teens, and adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss, anger management, and relationship issues. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance therapy to help my clients make the most progress, start feeling better, and start the road to recovery! I work to build a powerful relationship between us with active listening. Setting goals include building communication skills to interact with you in a positive way.
Hi, my name is Lynda Onyshko, and I'm based in Ventura County and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adolescents, pre-teens, and adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss, anger management, and relationship issues. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance therapy to help my clients make the most progress, start feeling better, and start the road to recovery! I work to build a powerful relationship between us with active listening. Setting goals include building communication skills to interact with you in a positive way.
(661) 276-8053 View (661) 276-8053
Photo of Tiffany Sheppard, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tiffany Sheppard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Processing and healing from traumatic events, grief, and life transitions are some of my specialties. I also have experience working with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, etc. I have enjoyed working with children and young adults for over 10 years.
Processing and healing from traumatic events, grief, and life transitions are some of my specialties. I also have experience working with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, etc. I have enjoyed working with children and young adults for over 10 years.
(661) 215-6335 View (661) 215-6335
Photo of Minaxi Patel, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Minaxi Patel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Waitlist for new clients
I have significant experience in helping clients work through issues of life changes, illness, loss and grief.
We all experience, loss, trauma, anxiety, depression or life transitions at some point in our lives, but we do not have to go through these challenges alone. I would like to help you work through these challenges in a caring safe environment. I believe it is important to discover the strengths within you and find hope, meaning and solutions to improve your life from where it is today.
I have significant experience in helping clients work through issues of life changes, illness, loss and grief.
We all experience, loss, trauma, anxiety, depression or life transitions at some point in our lives, but we do not have to go through these challenges alone. I would like to help you work through these challenges in a caring safe environment. I believe it is important to discover the strengths within you and find hope, meaning and solutions to improve your life from where it is today.
(661) 426-2181 View (661) 426-2181
Photo of Stephanie R Prince, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie R Prince
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93301
I have over 12 years of experience in grief, loss, chronic illness and caregiver fatigue counseling.
Loss is experienced through various forms during our lifetime – whether it’s the loss of a loved one, the loss of a job, the end of a relationship, divorce, children leaving for college or adolescents transitioning into adulthood. Together, we will navigate this journey called life. I believe we were all created with purpose and now that you’ve taken the brave, bold step to seek direction on the next steps of your life, I would love to be considered as your listener and guide.
I have over 12 years of experience in grief, loss, chronic illness and caregiver fatigue counseling.
Loss is experienced through various forms during our lifetime – whether it’s the loss of a loved one, the loss of a job, the end of a relationship, divorce, children leaving for college or adolescents transitioning into adulthood. Together, we will navigate this journey called life. I believe we were all created with purpose and now that you’ve taken the brave, bold step to seek direction on the next steps of your life, I would love to be considered as your listener and guide.
(661) 490-9706 View (661) 490-9706
Photo of Jill Erro, MS, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jill Erro
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
I work with individuals and couples who are experiencing grief, betrayal trauma, anxiety, communication challenges, or other matters that are creating interference in their lives.
Life is full of challenges, and sometimes such challenges can become overwhelming and impede our daily lives. Are you feeling as though there is a constant cloud of self-doubt, frustration, hurt, anger, shame, etc., looming over you? Do you portray someone who ‘has it all together’, yet you are crumbling on the inside? Or maybe you are feeling completely debilitated by recent events in your life. You do not have to face this all on your own. I offer a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space for you to express your true feelings.
I work with individuals and couples who are experiencing grief, betrayal trauma, anxiety, communication challenges, or other matters that are creating interference in their lives.
Life is full of challenges, and sometimes such challenges can become overwhelming and impede our daily lives. Are you feeling as though there is a constant cloud of self-doubt, frustration, hurt, anger, shame, etc., looming over you? Do you portray someone who ‘has it all together’, yet you are crumbling on the inside? Or maybe you are feeling completely debilitated by recent events in your life. You do not have to face this all on your own. I offer a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space for you to express your true feelings.
(661) 475-8846 View (661) 475-8846
Photo of Georgina Kasih, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Georgina Kasih
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93313
My name is Georgina Kasih, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California, and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in the areas of relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, grief & loss, ADHD, and ASD. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Problem-Solving Therapy, CBT, Seeking Safety, and somatic therapy techniques, among many other strategies, to help my clients achieve their personal goals. My therapeutic approach is tailored specifically to the needs of my clients.
My name is Georgina Kasih, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California, and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in the areas of relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, grief & loss, ADHD, and ASD. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Problem-Solving Therapy, CBT, Seeking Safety, and somatic therapy techniques, among many other strategies, to help my clients achieve their personal goals. My therapeutic approach is tailored specifically to the needs of my clients.
(661) 690-0627 View (661) 690-0627
Photo of Veronica Cardona, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Cardona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
Infertility, perinatal, postpartum and grief & loss often disrupts and impacts other relationships.
The journey through infertility and motherhood can be stressful and lonely. It often requires patience, perseverance, but above all HOPE. I want to empower and support you during this journey. Are you suspecting a problem because you have been trying to get pregnant without success? Have you been diagnosed with "infertility"? Are you considering IVF? Are you struggling with sustaining a pregnancy? Does your heart feel heavy with grief and sorrow over your loss and are ready for relief? Did you recently have a baby and are struggling with postpartum anxiety, depression or simply feeling overwhelmed? Reach out today. I can help you.
Infertility, perinatal, postpartum and grief & loss often disrupts and impacts other relationships.
The journey through infertility and motherhood can be stressful and lonely. It often requires patience, perseverance, but above all HOPE. I want to empower and support you during this journey. Are you suspecting a problem because you have been trying to get pregnant without success? Have you been diagnosed with "infertility"? Are you considering IVF? Are you struggling with sustaining a pregnancy? Does your heart feel heavy with grief and sorrow over your loss and are ready for relief? Did you recently have a baby and are struggling with postpartum anxiety, depression or simply feeling overwhelmed? Reach out today. I can help you.
(661) 689-7682 View (661) 689-7682
Photo of Sara Tousi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Tousi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93314
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 Mark Schlutsmeyer, LCP, Psychologist
Mark Schlutsmeyer
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93313
My name is Mark Schlutsmeyer and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist practicing full-time in Yuba City, California, and part-time throughout California via teletherapy. I work with adults on issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, shame, self-harm, addiction/substance use, grief, spirituality issues, and relationship problems. I especially enjoy working with adults who have co-occurring mental health and addiction/substance use issues. I strongly recommend scheduling a free 15-minute consultation call with me for more information and to determine if my therapy approach might be a good fit for you.
My name is Mark Schlutsmeyer and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist practicing full-time in Yuba City, California, and part-time throughout California via teletherapy. I work with adults on issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, shame, self-harm, addiction/substance use, grief, spirituality issues, and relationship problems. I especially enjoy working with adults who have co-occurring mental health and addiction/substance use issues. I strongly recommend scheduling a free 15-minute consultation call with me for more information and to determine if my therapy approach might be a good fit for you.
(951) 366-4056 View (951) 366-4056
Photo of Sarah Medzyk, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sarah Medzyk
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93311
I have experience with teens, adults, and older adults (55+), chronic illness, mood disorders, grief, and daily stress.
The difficulties of everyday life can sometimes become overwhelming. When on top of those difficulties we add the stresses of illness, anxiety, depression, our identity, our love lives and more-we can easily feel burdened to our breaking point. We just don't feel heard. Sometimes these situations can linger for months or years, making it hard to meet our obligations and live our lives in the way we would like. However, those difficulties and stresses don't need to define who we are-or where we're going. It's my goal as a therapist to help you tell your story.
I have experience with teens, adults, and older adults (55+), chronic illness, mood disorders, grief, and daily stress.
The difficulties of everyday life can sometimes become overwhelming. When on top of those difficulties we add the stresses of illness, anxiety, depression, our identity, our love lives and more-we can easily feel burdened to our breaking point. We just don't feel heard. Sometimes these situations can linger for months or years, making it hard to meet our obligations and live our lives in the way we would like. However, those difficulties and stresses don't need to define who we are-or where we're going. It's my goal as a therapist to help you tell your story.
(805) 516-0323 View (805) 516-0323
Photo of Marsha Goldman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marsha Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311  (Online Only)
I have a special interest in supporting clients who are experiencing grief and loss, life transitions, and women's issues.
Hello and welcome! I'm Marsha, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Congratulations on having the courage to reach out for your own well-being. Taking that first step is the beginning of a healing and expansive journey. I provide a safe space in which to explore your reasons for seeking therapy and to help bring out the strengths and resources that already exist inside of you, as well as offer tools for growth, to further your own life satisfaction. I bring a compassionate and non-judgmental presence, attention to the whole person - body/mind/spirit, use of the arts for healing, and my own experience across the life stages.
I have a special interest in supporting clients who are experiencing grief and loss, life transitions, and women's issues.
Hello and welcome! I'm Marsha, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Congratulations on having the courage to reach out for your own well-being. Taking that first step is the beginning of a healing and expansive journey. I provide a safe space in which to explore your reasons for seeking therapy and to help bring out the strengths and resources that already exist inside of you, as well as offer tools for growth, to further your own life satisfaction. I bring a compassionate and non-judgmental presence, attention to the whole person - body/mind/spirit, use of the arts for healing, and my own experience across the life stages.
(562) 278-8116 View (562) 278-8116
Photo of Ayako Mori, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ayako Mori
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
I typically work with young adults who are going through life changes/transitions, depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma.
Hello, my name is Ayako Mori and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have worked with children, teens, families, and individuals for over 15 years. I am bilingual in Japanese. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specializing in depression, anxiety, DV issues, grief, and trauma and I use a mindfulness approach to assist my clients with developing effective coping skills. I am also a yoga instructor and utilize a mind-and-body relationship approach.
I typically work with young adults who are going through life changes/transitions, depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma.
Hello, my name is Ayako Mori and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have worked with children, teens, families, and individuals for over 15 years. I am bilingual in Japanese. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specializing in depression, anxiety, DV issues, grief, and trauma and I use a mindfulness approach to assist my clients with developing effective coping skills. I am also a yoga instructor and utilize a mind-and-body relationship approach.
(909) 766-9495 View (909) 766-9495
Photo of Pamela Lewis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pamela Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
My purpose as a therapist is to connect with clients in a collaborative and non-judgmental environment that allows clients to feel safe to explore their thoughts and emotions and to feel empowered to make choices that are in their best interest to better manage their unique stressors. I assist clients in discovering their innate strengths and learning coping strategies they can apply to their school, social, and family systems and work with clients to create achievable goals. who are experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, grief, challenges with career choices, and difficulty with communication.
My purpose as a therapist is to connect with clients in a collaborative and non-judgmental environment that allows clients to feel safe to explore their thoughts and emotions and to feel empowered to make choices that are in their best interest to better manage their unique stressors. I assist clients in discovering their innate strengths and learning coping strategies they can apply to their school, social, and family systems and work with clients to create achievable goals. who are experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, grief, challenges with career choices, and difficulty with communication.
(951) 744-9726 View (951) 744-9726
Photo of Wendy Mullen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Mullen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93314
Welcome! My name is Wendy Mullen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Professional Coach (CPC), and a leading Southern California therapist servicing the greater Los Angeles area for over 30 years. I work with adults and specialize in substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, loss, and serious mental illness. I am deeply committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where you can find solace and embark on your healing journey.
Welcome! My name is Wendy Mullen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Professional Coach (CPC), and a leading Southern California therapist servicing the greater Los Angeles area for over 30 years. I work with adults and specialize in substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, loss, and serious mental illness. I am deeply committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where you can find solace and embark on your healing journey.
(562) 784-5290 View (562) 784-5290
Photo of Lauren Rutledge, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Rutledge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
My background has been working with individuals who are dealing with anxiety, grief, difficulties with life transitions, trauma and PTSD, depression, and addiction (e.
My name is Lauren, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Calistoga, California where I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, grief, life transitions, trauma, PTSD, and addiction. Depending on the needs of each client, I like to explore cognitive, affective, and somatic approaches to support them in experiencing well-being.
My background has been working with individuals who are dealing with anxiety, grief, difficulties with life transitions, trauma and PTSD, depression, and addiction (e.
My name is Lauren, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Calistoga, California where I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, grief, life transitions, trauma, PTSD, and addiction. Depending on the needs of each client, I like to explore cognitive, affective, and somatic approaches to support them in experiencing well-being.
(661) 485-4657 View (661) 485-4657
Photo of Heather Berry, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Berry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kernville, CA 93238
I specialize in women's issues, loss, divorce, empty-nesters, EMS, and First Responders with a trauma recovery focus.
Numb, tired, and wondering where YOU went? Feel like you have worked so hard, giving to others, responding, and literally "pushing rocks uphill". I'm here to help you reconnect and realign to YOU so that you can remember the passion and curiosity for the life you have. It's time for YOU. I help people learn new tools to step onto a fresh path, and find JOY. Specializing in First Responder and Life Trauma, I know how hard it is to let go of the "numbness and the shutdown". I have a deep heart for the family-focused, career soul who feels lost after raising kids and is full of compassion fatigue. It's Your Turn.
I specialize in women's issues, loss, divorce, empty-nesters, EMS, and First Responders with a trauma recovery focus.
Numb, tired, and wondering where YOU went? Feel like you have worked so hard, giving to others, responding, and literally "pushing rocks uphill". I'm here to help you reconnect and realign to YOU so that you can remember the passion and curiosity for the life you have. It's time for YOU. I help people learn new tools to step onto a fresh path, and find JOY. Specializing in First Responder and Life Trauma, I know how hard it is to let go of the "numbness and the shutdown". I have a deep heart for the family-focused, career soul who feels lost after raising kids and is full of compassion fatigue. It's Your Turn.
(760) 977-5201 View (760) 977-5201
Photo of Courtney Samari Rayne, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Samari Rayne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93313
I specialize in working with individuals struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, self esteem/self worth challenges, grief and loss, difficulty regulating mood and emotions, co-dependency, and suicidal thoughts or self injurious behavior.
Accepting New In-Person and Tele-health Patients! It is my passion to work with people who are interested in a holistic approach to self healing and empowerment. It is important to me that I offer clients a sacred space to share, authentic connection, and honest & direct communication. It is my goal to support people in their personal exploration and growth through therapeutic counseling, breath work, relaxation training, the practice of somatic awareness and meditation. The methods I use also have very strong response to treatment for individuals with a history of trauma.
I specialize in working with individuals struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, self esteem/self worth challenges, grief and loss, difficulty regulating mood and emotions, co-dependency, and suicidal thoughts or self injurious behavior.
Accepting New In-Person and Tele-health Patients! It is my passion to work with people who are interested in a holistic approach to self healing and empowerment. It is important to me that I offer clients a sacred space to share, authentic connection, and honest & direct communication. It is my goal to support people in their personal exploration and growth through therapeutic counseling, breath work, relaxation training, the practice of somatic awareness and meditation. The methods I use also have very strong response to treatment for individuals with a history of trauma.
(661) 367-8493 View (661) 367-8493
Photo of Dr. Karen Stark-Garrett, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Karen Stark-Garrett
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93301
I have clinical experience in grief, crisis, and loss issues related to death, divorce, disrupted relationships, infertility, and adoption, as well as trauma history, attachment struggles, unresolved anger, spiritual concerns, neurodiversity, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Sometimes, the unexpected occurs and psyches become traumatized. Once fulfilling relationships grow distant, tense, and riddled with conflict - begging the question of "how it came to this" or whether "it has to be this way." In my systems-based work with clients, I look for root causes of emotional reactivity and maladaptive behaviors that interfere with healthy functioning in relationships. I will assist you in remembering how capable you are and help you discover new ways of communicating effectively so you may move toward the changes you seek.
I have clinical experience in grief, crisis, and loss issues related to death, divorce, disrupted relationships, infertility, and adoption, as well as trauma history, attachment struggles, unresolved anger, spiritual concerns, neurodiversity, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Sometimes, the unexpected occurs and psyches become traumatized. Once fulfilling relationships grow distant, tense, and riddled with conflict - begging the question of "how it came to this" or whether "it has to be this way." In my systems-based work with clients, I look for root causes of emotional reactivity and maladaptive behaviors that interfere with healthy functioning in relationships. I will assist you in remembering how capable you are and help you discover new ways of communicating effectively so you may move toward the changes you seek.
(661) 424-2738 View (661) 424-2738
Photo of Rosmarie Stevens-Witt, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rosmarie Stevens-Witt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561  (Online Only)
Counseling is for normal people who get stuck; we all get stuck. Most of lifes ups and downs produce loss or adjustment. We all want to be happy and feel loved. I am experienced in life losses; not only as a therapist of 24 years but also as an older human being. We all have things we can learn and change within ourselves. I would feel honored to walk with you as you grow and move forward. Areas I enjoy working with include; life transitions/challenges, codependence and boundaries, depression, menopause, women at midlife, self esteem, stress reduction, and spiritual direction.
Counseling is for normal people who get stuck; we all get stuck. Most of lifes ups and downs produce loss or adjustment. We all want to be happy and feel loved. I am experienced in life losses; not only as a therapist of 24 years but also as an older human being. We all have things we can learn and change within ourselves. I would feel honored to walk with you as you grow and move forward. Areas I enjoy working with include; life transitions/challenges, codependence and boundaries, depression, menopause, women at midlife, self esteem, stress reduction, and spiritual direction.
(661) 505-1658 View (661) 505-1658
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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.