Grief Therapists in Laguna Woods, CA

Photo of Gertrude Bonincontro, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Woods, CA
Gertrude Bonincontro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Woods, CA 92653
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 Tenisha Seniguar-Morakinyo, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Laguna Woods, CA
Tenisha Seniguar-Morakinyo
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Laguna Woods, CA 92653
I have experience assisting clients with stress and anxiety, specific phobias, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, bipolar and related disorders, dissociative disorders, personality disorders, trauma, and abuse, coping with grief and loss, anger management, and paraphiliac disorders.
Hello, my name is Tenisha Seniguar-Morakinyo, LPCC License13468 with over 9 years of experience working with diverse populations. My approach to therapy is every individual is valuable and deserves to be heard and treated with dignity and respect by taking a non-judgment stance. I respect clients' legal rights to confidentiality to create a safe environment to develop trust and a strong therapeutic alliance. I am a firm believer that clients are the experts in their own lives. They know exactly what they want and need.
I have experience assisting clients with stress and anxiety, specific phobias, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, bipolar and related disorders, dissociative disorders, personality disorders, trauma, and abuse, coping with grief and loss, anger management, and paraphiliac disorders.
Hello, my name is Tenisha Seniguar-Morakinyo, LPCC License13468 with over 9 years of experience working with diverse populations. My approach to therapy is every individual is valuable and deserves to be heard and treated with dignity and respect by taking a non-judgment stance. I respect clients' legal rights to confidentiality to create a safe environment to develop trust and a strong therapeutic alliance. I am a firm believer that clients are the experts in their own lives. They know exactly what they want and need.
(657) 571-6699 View (657) 571-6699
Photo of Sylvia Y. Oh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Laguna Woods, CA
Sylvia Y. Oh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Woods, CA 92637  (Online Only)
I’ve worked with clients coping with a variety of issues from grief and loss, anxiety, depression, family conflict and I have also served as an International Mental Health Consultant with our Active Duty Service-members and their families throughout Europe, Asia and the U.
April 2024: Currently accepting clients. Do you feel weighed down by feelings of anxiety and/or sadness as we deal with unprecedented levels of stress? If you find it difficult to manage life’s stressors, especially now, you are not alone. You’ve taken an important first step in self-care. Compassion, empathy, and understanding are the key components in a productive therapeutic alliance. Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address these life stressors so that you can live your best life.
I’ve worked with clients coping with a variety of issues from grief and loss, anxiety, depression, family conflict and I have also served as an International Mental Health Consultant with our Active Duty Service-members and their families throughout Europe, Asia and the U.
April 2024: Currently accepting clients. Do you feel weighed down by feelings of anxiety and/or sadness as we deal with unprecedented levels of stress? If you find it difficult to manage life’s stressors, especially now, you are not alone. You’ve taken an important first step in self-care. Compassion, empathy, and understanding are the key components in a productive therapeutic alliance. Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address these life stressors so that you can live your best life.
(208) 825-9218 View (208) 825-9218
Photo of Jian Tan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Laguna Woods, CA
Jian Tan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Laguna Woods, CA 92653
I am able to work with a variety of clients, helping them decrease symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, grief, substance use disorder, spouse/partner relationship problem/distress, parent-child relationship problem/distress, personality disorders, etc.
My name is Jian Tan, a licensed professional clinical counselor. I hold an active license issued by Board of Behavioral Sciences of California. I am an accomplished and dynamic professional with a master’s degree in counseling and proven experience helping individuals, couples, children, families, and groups. I am a skilled interpersonal communicator able to facilitate conversation and provide a safe and welcoming environment to encourage participation.
I am able to work with a variety of clients, helping them decrease symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, grief, substance use disorder, spouse/partner relationship problem/distress, parent-child relationship problem/distress, personality disorders, etc.
My name is Jian Tan, a licensed professional clinical counselor. I hold an active license issued by Board of Behavioral Sciences of California. I am an accomplished and dynamic professional with a master’s degree in counseling and proven experience helping individuals, couples, children, families, and groups. I am a skilled interpersonal communicator able to facilitate conversation and provide a safe and welcoming environment to encourage participation.
(951) 904-2469 View (951) 904-2469
Photo of Erit Moradzadeh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Woods, CA
Erit Moradzadeh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Woods, CA 92653
Hello, my name is Erit Moradzadeh. I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and I have a doctorate degree in Marriage & Family Therapy. I offer psychotherapy services to the multicultural population as well as the immigrant population. My practice focuses on creating a safe, non-judgmental environment to help clients develop strong, meaningful, and intimate relationships. I work with individuals, couples, and families with issues such as self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues by setting healthy boundaries, so they can feel at ease and live a whole and meaningful life.
Hello, my name is Erit Moradzadeh. I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and I have a doctorate degree in Marriage & Family Therapy. I offer psychotherapy services to the multicultural population as well as the immigrant population. My practice focuses on creating a safe, non-judgmental environment to help clients develop strong, meaningful, and intimate relationships. I work with individuals, couples, and families with issues such as self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues by setting healthy boundaries, so they can feel at ease and live a whole and meaningful life.
(805) 410-8956 View (805) 410-8956
Photo of Laura Laird, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Woods, CA
Laura Laird
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Woods, CA 92637
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California with over 9 years experience. I am passionate about and enjoy working with adults, to help them with the challenges they face, including unresolved trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues or whatever is holding you back. I have vast therapeutic and life experiences that help me better understand what you are going through and how to help you. Life is difficult, complicated and at times even traumatic, but it can also be filled with great joy and fulfillment.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California with over 9 years experience. I am passionate about and enjoy working with adults, to help them with the challenges they face, including unresolved trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues or whatever is holding you back. I have vast therapeutic and life experiences that help me better understand what you are going through and how to help you. Life is difficult, complicated and at times even traumatic, but it can also be filled with great joy and fulfillment.
(657) 300-2339 View (657) 300-2339
Photo of David McKnight, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Woods, CA
David McKnight
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Woods, CA 92637  (Online Only)
VIDEO, Saturday and Evening Sessions available- Having anxiety, depression, work/career issues? Relationship, family or addiction (alcohol, drugs, phone, sex/love addiction, codependency), ADHD, chronic pain/health issues? I can help. It is extremely valuable to have a truly experienced and effective therapist to work with now more than ever. I have been doing counseling professionally for over 20 years and have seen my clients consistently make progress dealing with whatever challenges they have been facing. I offer support, compassion, valuable experience and a healthy relationship where a person can heal and grow.
VIDEO, Saturday and Evening Sessions available- Having anxiety, depression, work/career issues? Relationship, family or addiction (alcohol, drugs, phone, sex/love addiction, codependency), ADHD, chronic pain/health issues? I can help. It is extremely valuable to have a truly experienced and effective therapist to work with now more than ever. I have been doing counseling professionally for over 20 years and have seen my clients consistently make progress dealing with whatever challenges they have been facing. I offer support, compassion, valuable experience and a healthy relationship where a person can heal and grow.
(562) 444-1358 View (562) 444-1358
Photo of Stacy J Clark, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Woods, CA
Stacy J Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Laguna Woods, CA 92653
Do you find yourself grappling with the heavy burden of depression or anxiety? Are relationship or parenting challenges leaving you feeling angry, disconnected and alone? Are you drained and on the brink of burnout or compassion fatigue? Often, our challenges seem overwhelming, and we may feel stuck or powerless to change. You do not have to face life’s challenges alone. In therapy, we will work collaboratively to help understand how your personal life experiences have shaped your perspectives, discover your values and develop your inner strengths. We’ll use powerful tools to address your unique challenges and achieve your goals.
Do you find yourself grappling with the heavy burden of depression or anxiety? Are relationship or parenting challenges leaving you feeling angry, disconnected and alone? Are you drained and on the brink of burnout or compassion fatigue? Often, our challenges seem overwhelming, and we may feel stuck or powerless to change. You do not have to face life’s challenges alone. In therapy, we will work collaboratively to help understand how your personal life experiences have shaped your perspectives, discover your values and develop your inner strengths. We’ll use powerful tools to address your unique challenges and achieve your goals.
(949) 832-6281 View (949) 832-6281
Photo of Andrea Kumura, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Laguna Woods, CA
Andrea Kumura
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Woods, CA 92653
My name is Andrea Kumura and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that working with clients is a privilege and change can be created at any age. I work with children, adolescents, and senior citizens, while also working with adults. I specialize in the treatment of ADHD, depression, anxiety, social anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, parenting issues, and working with seniors on the challenges that aging brings. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, parents, and senior citizens on diagnoses such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, social anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, & parenting issues.
My name is Andrea Kumura and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that working with clients is a privilege and change can be created at any age. I work with children, adolescents, and senior citizens, while also working with adults. I specialize in the treatment of ADHD, depression, anxiety, social anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, parenting issues, and working with seniors on the challenges that aging brings. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, parents, and senior citizens on diagnoses such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, social anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, & parenting issues.
(209) 396-7452 View (209) 396-7452
Photo of Gail York, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Laguna Woods, CA
Gail York
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Woods, CA 92653
Hello, I'm Gail York and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California & working with clients statewide doing Telehealth. I have over 27 years of experience in the field of Mental Health and Counseling. I am also a Board-Certified Diplomat in Clinical Social Work (BCD & Clinically Certified Forensic Counselor (CCFC). I see people from all walks of life, with a variety of issues. Their issues may range from stress, anxiety or depression related to everyday life, to living and dealing with severe mental illnesses such as Schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
Hello, I'm Gail York and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California & working with clients statewide doing Telehealth. I have over 27 years of experience in the field of Mental Health and Counseling. I am also a Board-Certified Diplomat in Clinical Social Work (BCD & Clinically Certified Forensic Counselor (CCFC). I see people from all walks of life, with a variety of issues. Their issues may range from stress, anxiety or depression related to everyday life, to living and dealing with severe mental illnesses such as Schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
(626) 469-5902 View (626) 469-5902
Photo of Esther Wang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Laguna Woods, CA
Esther Wang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Woods, CA 92653
Hi there, I'm Esther! Everyone can use extra support from time to time, and that's what I'm here for. I'm here to help. My approach is straightforward and client-driven. I work with a limited number of clients because I want to be authentically present for your process. Other things you might want to know: I received my MSW from CSU Long Beach. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 5 years, and have provided supervision to ASWs working on hours for their license. I'm a long-time ally of the LGBTQIA community. I am kink and sex-positive.
Hi there, I'm Esther! Everyone can use extra support from time to time, and that's what I'm here for. I'm here to help. My approach is straightforward and client-driven. I work with a limited number of clients because I want to be authentically present for your process. Other things you might want to know: I received my MSW from CSU Long Beach. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 5 years, and have provided supervision to ASWs working on hours for their license. I'm a long-time ally of the LGBTQIA community. I am kink and sex-positive.
(909) 310-8342 View (909) 310-8342
Photo of Karen Aparcana, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Woods, CA
Karen Aparcana
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Woods, CA 92653
Welcome, my name is Karen Aparcana and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I believe that all humans are capable of making positive changes in their lives and I would love to be a part of your process. My therapeutic approach is a combination of Humanistic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy theories. I work with individuals to navigate depression, anxiety, and issues relating to past traumas. My therapeutic approach is a combination of Humanistic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy theories. My priority is to create a safe space for clients, and I do so by maintaining unconditional positive regard for my clients.
Welcome, my name is Karen Aparcana and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I believe that all humans are capable of making positive changes in their lives and I would love to be a part of your process. My therapeutic approach is a combination of Humanistic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy theories. I work with individuals to navigate depression, anxiety, and issues relating to past traumas. My therapeutic approach is a combination of Humanistic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy theories. My priority is to create a safe space for clients, and I do so by maintaining unconditional positive regard for my clients.
(760) 284-8282 View (760) 284-8282
Photo of Julie Ray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Woods, CA
Julie Ray
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Woods, CA 92653
Hi, my name is Julie Ray, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Many of us have or are facing challenges in our lives whether they are current stresses, past distresses, or struggling with coping. My goal is to create a supportive environment for individuals to work towards their goals and start on a path of healing. We can face many challenges in our lives whether they are current stresses, past distresses, or trauma.
Hi, my name is Julie Ray, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Many of us have or are facing challenges in our lives whether they are current stresses, past distresses, or struggling with coping. My goal is to create a supportive environment for individuals to work towards their goals and start on a path of healing. We can face many challenges in our lives whether they are current stresses, past distresses, or trauma.
(562) 632-4617 View (562) 632-4617

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Taube Levitt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Woods, CA
Taube Levitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladera Ranch, CA 92694
I'm a licensed Marriage Family Therapist with 25 years of experience. I offer individual, family, and marital counseling. I am Certified in EMDR and Grief Counseling and working towards my Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Certification. I specialize in trauma, grief, relationships, depression, anxiety, children, adolescents, and bipolar disorders.
I'm a licensed Marriage Family Therapist with 25 years of experience. I offer individual, family, and marital counseling. I am Certified in EMDR and Grief Counseling and working towards my Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Certification. I specialize in trauma, grief, relationships, depression, anxiety, children, adolescents, and bipolar disorders.
(657) 306-5872 View (657) 306-5872
Photo of Renata Vieira, Pre-Licensed Professional in Laguna Woods, CA
Renata Vieira
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92607
Do you ever feel hindered from reaching your fullest potential? Whether it is a feeling of anxiety, fear, feeling hopeless and unmotivated, a painful loss of a loved one leaving you feeling alone, or perhaps you see your child or teen struggling and you constantly find yourself wondering what you can do to help them…I empathize with you! No matter what it is, I want you to know that you deserve and CAN live a life that feels rewarding, while becoming the expert of writing your own story. Let’s chat and begin writing a new chapter together.
Do you ever feel hindered from reaching your fullest potential? Whether it is a feeling of anxiety, fear, feeling hopeless and unmotivated, a painful loss of a loved one leaving you feeling alone, or perhaps you see your child or teen struggling and you constantly find yourself wondering what you can do to help them…I empathize with you! No matter what it is, I want you to know that you deserve and CAN live a life that feels rewarding, while becoming the expert of writing your own story. Let’s chat and begin writing a new chapter together.
(949) 867-4549 View (949) 867-4549
Photo of Therapy Together Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Laguna Woods, CA
Therapy Together Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
Hello! My name is Robin Ensor Kopf. I know that choosing to seek therapy is hard and I’m glad you’re here. I’ve been working in the mental health field for over twenty years. I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief & loss, addiction, chronic illness, relationships as well as teen issues.
Hello! My name is Robin Ensor Kopf. I know that choosing to seek therapy is hard and I’m glad you’re here. I’ve been working in the mental health field for over twenty years. I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief & loss, addiction, chronic illness, relationships as well as teen issues.
(949) 694-3626 View (949) 694-3626
Photo of Earl Villorente, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Laguna Woods, CA
Earl Villorente
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92656
I am most comfortable working with teens and adults dealing with grief, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and difficulty managing work, school, and/or life transitions.
Hello, my name is Earl Villorente. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I provide individual therapy via telehealth. It is my goal to provide a safe space for us to work together to reduce symptoms and promote positive change to help you heal and enjoy a meaningful life. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to address symptoms by working on unhealthy thinking and behavior patterns - and creating or improving healthy ones. I also use therapeutic lenses of strength-based, client-centered, and solution-focused to help you identify and achieve your goals.
I am most comfortable working with teens and adults dealing with grief, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and difficulty managing work, school, and/or life transitions.
Hello, my name is Earl Villorente. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I provide individual therapy via telehealth. It is my goal to provide a safe space for us to work together to reduce symptoms and promote positive change to help you heal and enjoy a meaningful life. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to address symptoms by working on unhealthy thinking and behavior patterns - and creating or improving healthy ones. I also use therapeutic lenses of strength-based, client-centered, and solution-focused to help you identify and achieve your goals.
(530) 489-5589 View (530) 489-5589
Photo of Anxiety Depression And Loss With Shahla Chapman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Woods, CA
Anxiety Depression And Loss With Shahla Chapman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
generalized anxiety, panic attacks), grief/loss, and trauma work, including EMDR.
Everyone faces life transitions, some celebratory and others mournful. My aim is to help you navigate these transitions without sacrificing your emotional health. My approach is comprehensive and looks at all the possible influences affecting overall emotional health. A large part of my practice includes a focus on building mindfulness techniques to help you feel more in touch with yourself and empowered to respond to life’s challenges with ease. I integrate a relationship-focused, trauma-informed treatment, with evidenced based techniques such as EMDR, EFT, and Mindfulness CBT.
generalized anxiety, panic attacks), grief/loss, and trauma work, including EMDR.
Everyone faces life transitions, some celebratory and others mournful. My aim is to help you navigate these transitions without sacrificing your emotional health. My approach is comprehensive and looks at all the possible influences affecting overall emotional health. A large part of my practice includes a focus on building mindfulness techniques to help you feel more in touch with yourself and empowered to respond to life’s challenges with ease. I integrate a relationship-focused, trauma-informed treatment, with evidenced based techniques such as EMDR, EFT, and Mindfulness CBT.
(949) 635-4758 View (949) 635-4758
Photo of Joan Cantor Backer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Woods, CA
Joan Cantor Backer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
I am committed to helping others gain an understanding and acceptance of themselves; realize their full potential, and achieve their goals. I specialize in treating individuals, couples, and children. Through my extensive life experiences and clinical training, I am qualified to work with a wide range of issues for women, including life transitions, menopause, aging, loss and grief, and developing self esteem. “Hi, Joan, I want to thank you for your guidance during our sessions. The issues we discussed and acknowledged, gave me a sense of empowerment. I was very aware of what was going on around me and how it made me feel. "MK"
I am committed to helping others gain an understanding and acceptance of themselves; realize their full potential, and achieve their goals. I specialize in treating individuals, couples, and children. Through my extensive life experiences and clinical training, I am qualified to work with a wide range of issues for women, including life transitions, menopause, aging, loss and grief, and developing self esteem. “Hi, Joan, I want to thank you for your guidance during our sessions. The issues we discussed and acknowledged, gave me a sense of empowerment. I was very aware of what was going on around me and how it made me feel. "MK"
(949) 676-7486 View (949) 676-7486
Photo of Julie Kathleen Martin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Woods, CA
Julie Kathleen Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aliso Viejo, CA 92653
I am particularly passionate about working with women who deal with issues such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, adoption and foster parenting, infertility, pregnancy loss, infidelity, sexual identity, spiritual integration, trauma, sexual abuse, and grief.
Life brings painful experiences that can pull us away from becoming who we were intended to be. Whatever the source of your pain, there is grace, comfort, and healing for you. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to heal, and in the courage of my clients as they pursue wholeness. I am passionate about creating a safe space for my clients to explore the problems that keep them from being intimately connected with themselves and the people they love. I use a whole person approach; trying to be attentive to the synergy of body, mind, and spirit in the client's experience.
I am particularly passionate about working with women who deal with issues such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, adoption and foster parenting, infertility, pregnancy loss, infidelity, sexual identity, spiritual integration, trauma, sexual abuse, and grief.
Life brings painful experiences that can pull us away from becoming who we were intended to be. Whatever the source of your pain, there is grace, comfort, and healing for you. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to heal, and in the courage of my clients as they pursue wholeness. I am passionate about creating a safe space for my clients to explore the problems that keep them from being intimately connected with themselves and the people they love. I use a whole person approach; trying to be attentive to the synergy of body, mind, and spirit in the client's experience.
(949) 485-5376 View (949) 485-5376

See more therapy options for Laguna Woods

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.