Photo of Liana Huang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Liana Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I have had the privilege to work with individuals with generational trauma, grief, ADHD, and relational/familial issues.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
I have had the privilege to work with individuals with generational trauma, grief, ADHD, and relational/familial issues.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
(562) 268-1452 View (562) 268-1452
Photo of Erika Carter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Erika Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel alone carrying the weight of your trauma, I am here to help you begin your journey towards healing. I provide treatment for children and their families that experience depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, autism spectrum, parenting skills, and other mental health issues. I approach each of my clients with a kind, compassionate, and caring approach to form a genuine therapeutic bond where you will feel comfortable, be understood, and have hope knowing you do not have to carry the burden alone.
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel alone carrying the weight of your trauma, I am here to help you begin your journey towards healing. I provide treatment for children and their families that experience depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, autism spectrum, parenting skills, and other mental health issues. I approach each of my clients with a kind, compassionate, and caring approach to form a genuine therapeutic bond where you will feel comfortable, be understood, and have hope knowing you do not have to carry the burden alone.
(424) 381-0277 View (424) 381-0277
Photo of Christine Gonzalez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Christine Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CDAAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
Online, phone, and office sessions. Fees are tax deductible donations. News causing stress? More conflict at home? Let me help you to navigate this difficult time, take care of yourself, find ways to meet your social needs, and restore some peace and joy in your home and family. You can have this. We can work together to find the relief and answers you need. If you want to reduce stress and worry, survive AND thrive, and find wholeness in the midst of uncertainty, CALL me. Life CAN be better. Don't spend another day suffering, or let anything stop you from getting the help you need. Other specialties: Trauma, Grief, Kids, Families.
Online, phone, and office sessions. Fees are tax deductible donations. News causing stress? More conflict at home? Let me help you to navigate this difficult time, take care of yourself, find ways to meet your social needs, and restore some peace and joy in your home and family. You can have this. We can work together to find the relief and answers you need. If you want to reduce stress and worry, survive AND thrive, and find wholeness in the midst of uncertainty, CALL me. Life CAN be better. Don't spend another day suffering, or let anything stop you from getting the help you need. Other specialties: Trauma, Grief, Kids, Families.
(949) 537-2252 View (949) 537-2252
Photo of Ilana S Wasserman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Ilana S Wasserman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LEP, CMT, VMP
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
Being a therapist not only involves the training we are provided nor the previous clients with whom we have worked with. In my opinion, it involves the humility to allow one's client to feel safe enough to share the most vulnerable parts of their experiences in order for both of us to feel connected and moving in the same direction. My style of treatment follows my beliefs above. While we take our time bonding, I will be working to put the pieces together that you may be unable to see. Once we have a pattern established, we will go at your speed, perhaps with a light nudge from me, in order to discover the origins of your issues.
Being a therapist not only involves the training we are provided nor the previous clients with whom we have worked with. In my opinion, it involves the humility to allow one's client to feel safe enough to share the most vulnerable parts of their experiences in order for both of us to feel connected and moving in the same direction. My style of treatment follows my beliefs above. While we take our time bonding, I will be working to put the pieces together that you may be unable to see. Once we have a pattern established, we will go at your speed, perhaps with a light nudge from me, in order to discover the origins of your issues.
(949) 328-5710 View (949) 328-5710
Photo of Briana Barrera, Pre-Licensed Professional in Long Beach, CA
Briana Barrera
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
(310) 807-2734 View (310) 807-2734
Photo of Icinda Siqueira-Darwin, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Icinda Siqueira-Darwin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
If you are near the Southern area of Los Angeles County, you may want to consider psychotherapy or counseling in Long Beach. I work evening hours, as well as day time, and have experience with most mental health needs. I work in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have extensive experience with problems in living using Evidence Based Therapy models and Mindfulness with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, as well as major mental illness including schizophrenia, , and other thought disorders. I work with family problems , including sexual dysfunction. Performing psychological assessments are offered when necessary to set new goals.
If you are near the Southern area of Los Angeles County, you may want to consider psychotherapy or counseling in Long Beach. I work evening hours, as well as day time, and have experience with most mental health needs. I work in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have extensive experience with problems in living using Evidence Based Therapy models and Mindfulness with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, as well as major mental illness including schizophrenia, , and other thought disorders. I work with family problems , including sexual dysfunction. Performing psychological assessments are offered when necessary to set new goals.
(562) 526-0592 View (562) 526-0592
Photo of Ana Arguello, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Ana Arguello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
I am well versed in numerous modalities, among them; Individual therapy to address possible lifestyle changes, your relationship issues and goals. Couples therapy to address interpersonal and intrapersonal conflict Child psychotherapy ,(play therapy and dyadic therapy) from 0 to 5 years old through specialized training. Family therapy to increase effective communication within family dynamics. Crisis management as past occupational experience includes drug treatment and law enforcement crisis situations. Mental health consultant in educational settings, and occasional speaker in mental health related topics. I am fully bilingual
I am well versed in numerous modalities, among them; Individual therapy to address possible lifestyle changes, your relationship issues and goals. Couples therapy to address interpersonal and intrapersonal conflict Child psychotherapy ,(play therapy and dyadic therapy) from 0 to 5 years old through specialized training. Family therapy to increase effective communication within family dynamics. Crisis management as past occupational experience includes drug treatment and law enforcement crisis situations. Mental health consultant in educational settings, and occasional speaker in mental health related topics. I am fully bilingual
(562) 655-8568 View (562) 655-8568
Photo of Dr. David Godot, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Dr. David Godot
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
I'm the chief psychologist at Psych Lab, a private mental health practice focused on using careful assessment and depth-oriented psychotherapy to help you achieve total health. Not just symptom relief - real mental health and well-being. Joy. Happiness. Fulfillment. Therapy at Psych Lab begins with an in-depth screening process that reveals a lot of personal strengths, needs, and personality aspects that other therapists will never even find out about. Then, you'll receive an in-depth, one-on-one evaluation to help develop that understanding into something actionable. What do we need to -do- to help you get un-stuck?
I'm the chief psychologist at Psych Lab, a private mental health practice focused on using careful assessment and depth-oriented psychotherapy to help you achieve total health. Not just symptom relief - real mental health and well-being. Joy. Happiness. Fulfillment. Therapy at Psych Lab begins with an in-depth screening process that reveals a lot of personal strengths, needs, and personality aspects that other therapists will never even find out about. Then, you'll receive an in-depth, one-on-one evaluation to help develop that understanding into something actionable. What do we need to -do- to help you get un-stuck?
(323) 553-7040 View (323) 553-7040
Photo of Ana Arguello, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Ana Arguello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
Hello and welcome! I have been in the psychology field seeing everyone and addressing almost everything! .Along the way I developed an expertise in Child Parent Psychotherapy and Rational Behavior Therapy. I also have extensive training in Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Adolescence and Postpartum Depression. I am currently a Mental Health Consultant for the School District. I also spent 15 years working at an all male prison as a bilingual therapist. Please feel free to contact me and make a significant step in understanding yourself and improving your life!
Hello and welcome! I have been in the psychology field seeing everyone and addressing almost everything! .Along the way I developed an expertise in Child Parent Psychotherapy and Rational Behavior Therapy. I also have extensive training in Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Adolescence and Postpartum Depression. I am currently a Mental Health Consultant for the School District. I also spent 15 years working at an all male prison as a bilingual therapist. Please feel free to contact me and make a significant step in understanding yourself and improving your life!
(562) 548-7758 View (562) 548-7758

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Counseling Adults, Children & Couples, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Counseling Adults, Children & Couples
Psychologist, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
(310) 421-2863 View (310) 421-2863

Online Therapists

Photo of Shaina Keshmir-Glicker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Shaina Keshmir-Glicker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
I specialize in mood disorders, grief, loss, trauma, life transitions, and navigating complex relationship changes.
Are you determined to find ways to overcome and alleviate your emotional pain and suffering? As your therapist, I am passionate and dedicated to help you navigate life obstacles and achieve personal and relational growth and healing. My sessions are customized to meet your unique needs and personal goals. With support, authenticity, and curiosity, I aim to create a warm and inviting space for you to openly explore your emotions and lived experiences. Together we can transform pain into beauty.
I specialize in mood disorders, grief, loss, trauma, life transitions, and navigating complex relationship changes.
Are you determined to find ways to overcome and alleviate your emotional pain and suffering? As your therapist, I am passionate and dedicated to help you navigate life obstacles and achieve personal and relational growth and healing. My sessions are customized to meet your unique needs and personal goals. With support, authenticity, and curiosity, I aim to create a warm and inviting space for you to openly explore your emotions and lived experiences. Together we can transform pain into beauty.
(323) 403-0226 View (323) 403-0226
Photo of West Valley Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
West Valley Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
Our diverse staff are trained to address the specific needs of you and/or your family including trauma recovery, marital and family issues, life transitions and loss, depression, anxiety, abandonment, self-esteem issues, career confusion, and many more.
West Valley Counseling Center (WVCC) offers a wide range of therapeutic interventions and services to bring affordable mental health services to the San Fernando Valley. WVCC is a non-profit community mental health center that has been serving the Greater Los Angeles region for well over a decade. Our qualified therapists work with individuals, relationships, traditional families, and non-traditional families to help ease life's burdens and to provide specialty services.
Our diverse staff are trained to address the specific needs of you and/or your family including trauma recovery, marital and family issues, life transitions and loss, depression, anxiety, abandonment, self-esteem issues, career confusion, and many more.
West Valley Counseling Center (WVCC) offers a wide range of therapeutic interventions and services to bring affordable mental health services to the San Fernando Valley. WVCC is a non-profit community mental health center that has been serving the Greater Los Angeles region for well over a decade. Our qualified therapists work with individuals, relationships, traditional families, and non-traditional families to help ease life's burdens and to provide specialty services.
(805) 620-8046 View (805) 620-8046
Photo of Ayleen Bryan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Ayleen Bryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
I have extensive training and experience in grief counseling, counseling teenagers, marriage counseling, and domestic violence.
Ayleen Bryan Bilingual LMFT. We all have issues we deal with on a daily basis, and therapy is about addressing those issues in a positive, effective manner. I provide the highest level of professional care in a warm, inviting, supportive and nonjudgmental environment. I help people of all ages, and work in many different modalities tailoring the treatment to the needs of each patient. I work with individuals, couples and families to assist in skill building and to promote healthy everyday living. I specialize in managing individuals' issues, couples counseling, working with children and families.
I have extensive training and experience in grief counseling, counseling teenagers, marriage counseling, and domestic violence.
Ayleen Bryan Bilingual LMFT. We all have issues we deal with on a daily basis, and therapy is about addressing those issues in a positive, effective manner. I provide the highest level of professional care in a warm, inviting, supportive and nonjudgmental environment. I help people of all ages, and work in many different modalities tailoring the treatment to the needs of each patient. I work with individuals, couples and families to assist in skill building and to promote healthy everyday living. I specialize in managing individuals' issues, couples counseling, working with children and families.
(909) 500-4561 View (909) 500-4561
Photo of Bernadette M. Di Toro, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Bernadette M. Di Toro
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I bring together the heart and science of psychology to my practice and 19 years experience in the field of mental health. I have worked as a researcher and clinician in inpatient and outpatient settings (including UCSD and the VA) and focused on trauma, grief, depression, dementia, Alzheimer's disease and forensics. I received a B.A. from Lehigh University in Psychology and Health & Human Development, an M.S.Degree from SDSU in Gerontology (the study of aging), and an M.A. Degree and a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology.
I bring together the heart and science of psychology to my practice and 19 years experience in the field of mental health. I have worked as a researcher and clinician in inpatient and outpatient settings (including UCSD and the VA) and focused on trauma, grief, depression, dementia, Alzheimer's disease and forensics. I received a B.A. from Lehigh University in Psychology and Health & Human Development, an M.S.Degree from SDSU in Gerontology (the study of aging), and an M.A. Degree and a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology.
(858) 348-4139 View (858) 348-4139
Photo of Belinda Nunez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Belinda Nunez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
I have dedicated myself over the last decade to providing efficient, empathetic, and supportive services to countless clients with various needs and circumstances from differing backgrounds and of various ages. I have worked with children in the foster system, teens on probation, babies and parents struggling with attachment, victims of domestic violence, older adults with memory loss, individuals of all ages diagnosed with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities and countless other mental health needs in various social/family/ environmental circumstances. I have over a year experience in providing therapy via Telehealth.
I have dedicated myself over the last decade to providing efficient, empathetic, and supportive services to countless clients with various needs and circumstances from differing backgrounds and of various ages. I have worked with children in the foster system, teens on probation, babies and parents struggling with attachment, victims of domestic violence, older adults with memory loss, individuals of all ages diagnosed with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities and countless other mental health needs in various social/family/ environmental circumstances. I have over a year experience in providing therapy via Telehealth.
(909) 316-5843 View (909) 316-5843
Photo of Dr. Rachel Chistyakov, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Dr. Rachel Chistyakov
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
My approach to therapy focuses on healing, connection, and emotional insight to allow individuals, couples, and families to reach their goals and improve their lives. We will work together to tailor your treatment so that whatever may be affecting you can be worked through in a safe, comfortable space. I utilize different treatment modalities like EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy and TRM to bring you the best treatment for your personalized needs. Some of my specialty areas include grief & loss, PTSD, couples and family therapy, depression, and anxiety.
My approach to therapy focuses on healing, connection, and emotional insight to allow individuals, couples, and families to reach their goals and improve their lives. We will work together to tailor your treatment so that whatever may be affecting you can be worked through in a safe, comfortable space. I utilize different treatment modalities like EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy and TRM to bring you the best treatment for your personalized needs. Some of my specialty areas include grief & loss, PTSD, couples and family therapy, depression, and anxiety.
(747) 999-8610 View (747) 999-8610
Photo of Paula Ratter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Paula Ratter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD, RN
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92054
Waitlist for new clients
grief/loss, & communication issues.
I don't have an ideal client. I want to met people where they are at. If you've never had therapy before, it’s important to be aware we don’t start talking about the hard stuff. It can take 2-3 sessions for someone to feel comfortable enough to tell another person what they are struggling with. Therapists cannot read minds, but have studied human patterns of thoughts, feelings & actions. No one can truly know the exact consequences a person has experienced in their life. Regardless of the reason why someone is seeking therapy, there is no judgment, no criticism…just acceptance. People can heal & grow in this type of environment.
grief/loss, & communication issues.
I don't have an ideal client. I want to met people where they are at. If you've never had therapy before, it’s important to be aware we don’t start talking about the hard stuff. It can take 2-3 sessions for someone to feel comfortable enough to tell another person what they are struggling with. Therapists cannot read minds, but have studied human patterns of thoughts, feelings & actions. No one can truly know the exact consequences a person has experienced in their life. Regardless of the reason why someone is seeking therapy, there is no judgment, no criticism…just acceptance. People can heal & grow in this type of environment.
(442) 275-8529 View (442) 275-8529
Photo of Affordable Therapy Los Angeles, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Affordable Therapy Los Angeles
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362  (Online Only)
Our therapists can help with a variety of issues, including: Anxiety; Bereavement; Past Child Abuse; Depression; Emotional Abuse; Gay and Lesbian Issues; Job Displacement; Loneliness; Marriage Problems; Parent/Child Difficulties; Recovery from Substance Abuse; Relationship Difficulties, Stress, and Trauma.
We offer Telehealth in California on a sliding fee scale as low as $30 a session. We work with individuals, couples, children, and families. We will help you learn better communication skills for your relationships as will as help relieve any symptoms of anxiety and depression. Our therapy/counseling is confidential and you will meet your therapist online in the privacy of your own space. Visit our website at Affordabletherapyla.com and call us at 818-907-7974 Your phone call will be returned in 24 hours. No wait list and no insurance is required. We are here to help.
Our therapists can help with a variety of issues, including: Anxiety; Bereavement; Past Child Abuse; Depression; Emotional Abuse; Gay and Lesbian Issues; Job Displacement; Loneliness; Marriage Problems; Parent/Child Difficulties; Recovery from Substance Abuse; Relationship Difficulties, Stress, and Trauma.
We offer Telehealth in California on a sliding fee scale as low as $30 a session. We work with individuals, couples, children, and families. We will help you learn better communication skills for your relationships as will as help relieve any symptoms of anxiety and depression. Our therapy/counseling is confidential and you will meet your therapist online in the privacy of your own space. Visit our website at Affordabletherapyla.com and call us at 818-907-7974 Your phone call will be returned in 24 hours. No wait list and no insurance is required. We are here to help.
(213) 465-3669 View (213) 465-3669
Barbara Ferrari
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
I have conducted various group sessions discussing anger management, empowerment, and parenting and regularly counsel people from all walks of life including those with a history of addiction, abuse and trauma, grief and loss, marital trouble, and post traumatic stress disorder.
Barbara Ferrari, LMFT is a Los Angeles-based licensed marriage and family therapist with over thirty years of experience treating mental health issues and working with the dual diagnosed population. My professional services, which operate in a philosophy of hope, optimism, and belief in the benefits of patient and professional counseling, center on creating personalized strategies that encourage growth and healing in the individual, family unit, and community as a whole.
I have conducted various group sessions discussing anger management, empowerment, and parenting and regularly counsel people from all walks of life including those with a history of addiction, abuse and trauma, grief and loss, marital trouble, and post traumatic stress disorder.
Barbara Ferrari, LMFT is a Los Angeles-based licensed marriage and family therapist with over thirty years of experience treating mental health issues and working with the dual diagnosed population. My professional services, which operate in a philosophy of hope, optimism, and belief in the benefits of patient and professional counseling, center on creating personalized strategies that encourage growth and healing in the individual, family unit, and community as a whole.
(661) 373-6923 View (661) 373-6923
Photo of Orange County Health Psychologists, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Orange County Health Psychologists
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
I'm the founder of Orange County Health Psychologists; a group practice of 30+ providers with offices in Irvine, Newport Beach, and Orange. We offer individual, couples, and family therapy along with testing and assessment services. If I'm not available, our Admin staff is wonderful in matching people to the right provider! I hope you'll call today and let them know what you're looking for and how we can help. Both In-person and telehealth sessions are available. You can also see our website for a complete list of services at www.ochealthpsych.com.
I'm the founder of Orange County Health Psychologists; a group practice of 30+ providers with offices in Irvine, Newport Beach, and Orange. We offer individual, couples, and family therapy along with testing and assessment services. If I'm not available, our Admin staff is wonderful in matching people to the right provider! I hope you'll call today and let them know what you're looking for and how we can help. Both In-person and telehealth sessions are available. You can also see our website for a complete list of services at www.ochealthpsych.com.
(949) 446-1600 View (949) 446-1600
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.