Photo of Kimber Del Valle, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Kimber Del Valle
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
I am a licensed psychologist conducting therapy and counseling. I specialize in working with adults. I have specialties in the areas of grief, traumas, depression and anxiety however have seen clients for a variety of issues. My primary approach to therapy is based on an insight-oriented relational model to treatment however, I supplement my work with Somatic Experiencing, a trauma treatment informed by the mind and body connection. My clinical work is informed by the understanding that a therapeutic relationship can help restructure one's internal emotional world and cognitive functioning, which is supported by attachment and neuropsychology research.
I am a licensed psychologist conducting therapy and counseling. I specialize in working with adults. I have specialties in the areas of grief, traumas, depression and anxiety however have seen clients for a variety of issues. My primary approach to therapy is based on an insight-oriented relational model to treatment however, I supplement my work with Somatic Experiencing, a trauma treatment informed by the mind and body connection. My clinical work is informed by the understanding that a therapeutic relationship can help restructure one's internal emotional world and cognitive functioning, which is supported by attachment and neuropsychology research.
(562) 368-8961 View (562) 368-8961
Photo of Beth Staehling, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Beth Staehling
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
Do you find yourself experiencing doubt, sadness, worry, grief, confusion and hopelessness? It could be that your relationship is causing confusion and you are losing your sense of stability in the world or maybe you are struggling to make career or family decisions. Depression or anxiety may be getting in your way of finding the happiness/success you know you are capable of having. These concerns take courage to face and therapy provides a safe place to discuss alternative ways of looking at your concerns. I can help you gain some insight into your struggles while providing emotional support.
Do you find yourself experiencing doubt, sadness, worry, grief, confusion and hopelessness? It could be that your relationship is causing confusion and you are losing your sense of stability in the world or maybe you are struggling to make career or family decisions. Depression or anxiety may be getting in your way of finding the happiness/success you know you are capable of having. These concerns take courage to face and therapy provides a safe place to discuss alternative ways of looking at your concerns. I can help you gain some insight into your struggles while providing emotional support.
(626) 377-4654 View (626) 377-4654
Photo of Amy Lynn Peer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Amy Lynn Peer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I specialize in loss and grief, including: the death of a loved one or pet, childhood losses - parental neglect/abuse, divorce/separation, estrangement, parental alienation, and job loss.
I work with you to uncover those self-defeating beliefs and behaviors that can make life problematic. Working together, my intention is to help you gain insight into yourself and to encourage change that moves you forward toward fulfilling your goals and dreams. Clients come to me with anxiety, anger issues, depression, marital issues including infidelity, family conflicts, grief and loss, co-dependency, Adult Child of Alcoholics/Addicts issues, and problems with substance use. Furthermore, I work with young women in their 20's and 30's trying to navigate through life transitions, relationship and career issues.
I specialize in loss and grief, including: the death of a loved one or pet, childhood losses - parental neglect/abuse, divorce/separation, estrangement, parental alienation, and job loss.
I work with you to uncover those self-defeating beliefs and behaviors that can make life problematic. Working together, my intention is to help you gain insight into yourself and to encourage change that moves you forward toward fulfilling your goals and dreams. Clients come to me with anxiety, anger issues, depression, marital issues including infidelity, family conflicts, grief and loss, co-dependency, Adult Child of Alcoholics/Addicts issues, and problems with substance use. Furthermore, I work with young women in their 20's and 30's trying to navigate through life transitions, relationship and career issues.
(562) 418-5036 View (562) 418-5036
Photo of Maria Modesta Carmichael, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Maria Modesta Carmichael
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
Life is full of challenges that overwhelm us. It stops us in our tracks and we think "how did I get here?" Whether it is grief, fear, lack of motivation, excessive worrying, indecisiveness, poor choices, trauma, addiction, or relationship problems: therapy is a tool to help, if you are open and reach out. This is when you need someone who is genuine, safe, non-judgmental, caring, supportive, and redirects gently to help you decide the next steps in YOUR journey. In therapy, we will focus on healing, process past wounds, identify triggers, create healthy boundaries, explore solutions, and find the path that is right for you.
Life is full of challenges that overwhelm us. It stops us in our tracks and we think "how did I get here?" Whether it is grief, fear, lack of motivation, excessive worrying, indecisiveness, poor choices, trauma, addiction, or relationship problems: therapy is a tool to help, if you are open and reach out. This is when you need someone who is genuine, safe, non-judgmental, caring, supportive, and redirects gently to help you decide the next steps in YOUR journey. In therapy, we will focus on healing, process past wounds, identify triggers, create healthy boundaries, explore solutions, and find the path that is right for you.
(562) 362-3351 View (562) 362-3351
Photo of Susan A Pollard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Susan A Pollard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
I have extensive knowledge and experience with helping individuals with substance abuse, grief and loss, and trauma-related issues.
I honor compassion and vulnerability in the counseling arena and provide a safe environment for individuals to share their stories of pain, trauma and grief. Let me help guide you on a journey to find healing, comfort and insight into anything that is holding you back from living in the moment to your fullest potential. I will help you examine the roadblocks to your recovery and share strength for any type of pain, trauma or grief that presents itself in your life.
I have extensive knowledge and experience with helping individuals with substance abuse, grief and loss, and trauma-related issues.
I honor compassion and vulnerability in the counseling arena and provide a safe environment for individuals to share their stories of pain, trauma and grief. Let me help guide you on a journey to find healing, comfort and insight into anything that is holding you back from living in the moment to your fullest potential. I will help you examine the roadblocks to your recovery and share strength for any type of pain, trauma or grief that presents itself in your life.
(562) 262-5528 View (562) 262-5528
Photo of Angie Pelletier -Juarez, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Angie Pelletier -Juarez
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
Dr. PJ, also known as Dr. Angie Pelletier, is a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience. She applies a holistic methodology that takes into account mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual considerations to help people gain a better understanding of themselves. Her focus areas include trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, intimate partner violence (IPV)/Domestic Violence (DV) victims, life and career transitions, and relationship issues, among others. Dr. PJ stresses the importance of identifying personal strengths and cultivating coping strategies to meet life's challenges.
Dr. PJ, also known as Dr. Angie Pelletier, is a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience. She applies a holistic methodology that takes into account mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual considerations to help people gain a better understanding of themselves. Her focus areas include trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, intimate partner violence (IPV)/Domestic Violence (DV) victims, life and career transitions, and relationship issues, among others. Dr. PJ stresses the importance of identifying personal strengths and cultivating coping strategies to meet life's challenges.
(562) 278-0875 View (562) 278-0875
Photo of Karla Lara, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Karla Lara
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
I have over 12 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and children suffering from grief/trauma, depression/anxiety/stress management, self-esteem/assertiveness/boundaries, intimate relationship abuse, and sexual assault.
Overcome obstacles that have been preventing you from living your best life. Experience positive reflection and empowerment through a therapeutic relationship that is trusting, open-minded, and safe. I will guide you to a healthier way of coping and discovering your purpose. Let’s work together on resolving past pain in an effort to promote healing and hope for a better future. Let's explore healthy strategies to achieve your personal growth. Maximize your potential to enjoy a successful, happy, and productive life today!
I have over 12 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and children suffering from grief/trauma, depression/anxiety/stress management, self-esteem/assertiveness/boundaries, intimate relationship abuse, and sexual assault.
Overcome obstacles that have been preventing you from living your best life. Experience positive reflection and empowerment through a therapeutic relationship that is trusting, open-minded, and safe. I will guide you to a healthier way of coping and discovering your purpose. Let’s work together on resolving past pain in an effort to promote healing and hope for a better future. Let's explore healthy strategies to achieve your personal growth. Maximize your potential to enjoy a successful, happy, and productive life today!
(562) 632-5808 View (562) 632-5808
Photo of Yasuko Mikajiri, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Yasuko Mikajiri
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90806  (Online Only)
My name is Yasuko (pronounced "Yasco") Mikajiri (三ヶ尻 靖子), and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Long Beach, California. Via Telehealth, I work with adults (18 years old and over) throughout California, specializing in Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief & Loss, Substance Abuse, Communication Skills, Transitional Work, Generational/Cultural Gap Issues for Immigrants, and Purpose in Life, etc. My approach to therapy is a combination of some of the therapy techniques tailored to your individual needs. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you transform the patterns of negative thinking into positive ones.
My name is Yasuko (pronounced "Yasco") Mikajiri (三ヶ尻 靖子), and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Long Beach, California. Via Telehealth, I work with adults (18 years old and over) throughout California, specializing in Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief & Loss, Substance Abuse, Communication Skills, Transitional Work, Generational/Cultural Gap Issues for Immigrants, and Purpose in Life, etc. My approach to therapy is a combination of some of the therapy techniques tailored to your individual needs. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you transform the patterns of negative thinking into positive ones.
(442) 219-7341 View (442) 219-7341
Photo of Will Schofield, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Will Schofield
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, CADC II
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
My therapeutic approach supports a centering of the individual to draw upon their foundational ideas of self. We all experience times when we struggle to make sense of, cope with, and bring forward our best selves. I love helping clients unpack what is most challenging in their lives. Through our past exploration of built-upon themes and skills, a different sense of presence can feel more capable with additional ways of interacting to support your goals. My clients are high-functioning individuals and families who are dealing with grief, value/identity, trauma, challenging circumstances, relationship issues, and addiction.
My therapeutic approach supports a centering of the individual to draw upon their foundational ideas of self. We all experience times when we struggle to make sense of, cope with, and bring forward our best selves. I love helping clients unpack what is most challenging in their lives. Through our past exploration of built-upon themes and skills, a different sense of presence can feel more capable with additional ways of interacting to support your goals. My clients are high-functioning individuals and families who are dealing with grief, value/identity, trauma, challenging circumstances, relationship issues, and addiction.
(424) 677-1445 View (424) 677-1445
Photo of Tenisha Seniguar-Morakinyo, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Long Beach, CA
Tenisha Seniguar-Morakinyo
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90806
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 Grace Oakes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Grace Oakes
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, identity or relationship issues, I can help you get to the heart of the issue and move past the places where you feel stuck. You have strength and resources within yourself that you may not fully recognize. Together we can tap into those to support your healing and growth.
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, identity or relationship issues, I can help you get to the heart of the issue and move past the places where you feel stuck. You have strength and resources within yourself that you may not fully recognize. Together we can tap into those to support your healing and growth.
(657) 837-5631 View (657) 837-5631
Photo of Alfredo M. Gonzalez/Revive AMG Family Therapy Corp, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Alfredo M. Gonzalez/Revive AMG Family Therapy Corp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90840  (Online Only)
“Telehealth Provider” Taking steps to engage in individual or couples therapy can invoke a multitude of emotions. Identifying a therapist right for you is as important as the journey you are seeking to embark on. Telehealth Therapy provides the same level of treatment and care as you’d otherwise receive in-person within your private space and without the need to travel to your therapist. In this challenging time, I’m here to provide the emotional, compassionate support you need. Licensed for over 23-years as a bilingual (Eng/Spa) Marriage Family Therapist, I have specialized in working in the treatment of infidelity, grief, loss,
“Telehealth Provider” Taking steps to engage in individual or couples therapy can invoke a multitude of emotions. Identifying a therapist right for you is as important as the journey you are seeking to embark on. Telehealth Therapy provides the same level of treatment and care as you’d otherwise receive in-person within your private space and without the need to travel to your therapist. In this challenging time, I’m here to provide the emotional, compassionate support you need. Licensed for over 23-years as a bilingual (Eng/Spa) Marriage Family Therapist, I have specialized in working in the treatment of infidelity, grief, loss,
(747) 302-4276 View (747) 302-4276
Photo of Arthur Lien, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Arthur Lien
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802
I work with individuals, couples, and families to help them restore hope, find meaning, and feel empowered after experiencing loss or trauma. Loss and change are inevitable, but the grief that follows loss – be it a loved one, a pet, a relationship, a job, or even a part of your identity – can be overwhelming. You do not have to endure the pain alone. If you have experienced a loss or are working through difficult childhood traumas that leave you feeling lost, anxious, or depressed, I am here to walk alongside you.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to help them restore hope, find meaning, and feel empowered after experiencing loss or trauma. Loss and change are inevitable, but the grief that follows loss – be it a loved one, a pet, a relationship, a job, or even a part of your identity – can be overwhelming. You do not have to endure the pain alone. If you have experienced a loss or are working through difficult childhood traumas that leave you feeling lost, anxious, or depressed, I am here to walk alongside you.
(949) 763-3722 View (949) 763-3722
Photo of Janelle Bonura, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Janelle Bonura
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
Are you tired of feeling stuck, lost, confused? Are you seeking more harmony in all areas of your life? Are you ready to feel empowered, excited, & energized about life? My passion is to lift you up, empower you, motivate you, & to get you back on track with feeling good again. I love to help adolescents, teens and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and adjustment to life events. I support my clients in developing tools and skills to better manage the stressors they are facing and in building their self-confidence to handle the ups and downs life will inevitably bring.
Are you tired of feeling stuck, lost, confused? Are you seeking more harmony in all areas of your life? Are you ready to feel empowered, excited, & energized about life? My passion is to lift you up, empower you, motivate you, & to get you back on track with feeling good again. I love to help adolescents, teens and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and adjustment to life events. I support my clients in developing tools and skills to better manage the stressors they are facing and in building their self-confidence to handle the ups and downs life will inevitably bring.
(657) 385-8400 View (657) 385-8400
Photo of Elizabeth Kelly, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Elizabeth Kelly
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Elizabeth Kelly, a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in working with individual adult clients aged 18 and older. If you are seeking help with working through grief, loss, difficult changes, anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, aging challenges or any other issues that may be hard to overcome alone, I am here to help you through.
Hello, I am Elizabeth Kelly, a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in working with individual adult clients aged 18 and older. If you are seeking help with working through grief, loss, difficult changes, anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, aging challenges or any other issues that may be hard to overcome alone, I am here to help you through.
(951) 564-3376 View (951) 564-3376
Photo of Debra Burianek of So Cal Christian Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Debra Burianek of So Cal Christian Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90808  (Online Only)
I know that there are times when life can be difficult. My deepest professional desire is to give you hope and to let you know that you are not alone. Give me a chance to help and together we can move through the difficult parts of life, so you can experience growth and healing. I have experienced many grief and losses throughout my life from marriage, divorce, raising children, empty nesting, grand-babies, and sadly walking through the Hospice process while losing both parents to cancer. I can utilize my pains, struggles and triumphs to encourage you that you CAN do this and there is hope when there feels like there is none.
I know that there are times when life can be difficult. My deepest professional desire is to give you hope and to let you know that you are not alone. Give me a chance to help and together we can move through the difficult parts of life, so you can experience growth and healing. I have experienced many grief and losses throughout my life from marriage, divorce, raising children, empty nesting, grand-babies, and sadly walking through the Hospice process while losing both parents to cancer. I can utilize my pains, struggles and triumphs to encourage you that you CAN do this and there is hope when there feels like there is none.
(562) 551-1764 View (562) 551-1764
Photo of Sara Medina, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Long Beach, CA
Sara Medina
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MA, ASW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
Further, I have successfully treated families and individuals of all ages, including postpartum women and dual diagnosis individuals; I have facilitated treatment groups for grief and loss, substance abuse recovery, and veterans.
Hi there! I am a therapist who is adept at cultivating a warm and secure environment for my clients, allowing them space to safely explore and process difficult thoughts, feelings, and behavioral patterns. Through genuine rapport, a sensitivity to the unique needs of each client, and deep clinical expertise, I assists my clients to develop healthy and productive coping skills, communicate effectively with others, and establish a positive and gratifying self-concept. I have specialized training in trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief.
Further, I have successfully treated families and individuals of all ages, including postpartum women and dual diagnosis individuals; I have facilitated treatment groups for grief and loss, substance abuse recovery, and veterans.
Hi there! I am a therapist who is adept at cultivating a warm and secure environment for my clients, allowing them space to safely explore and process difficult thoughts, feelings, and behavioral patterns. Through genuine rapport, a sensitivity to the unique needs of each client, and deep clinical expertise, I assists my clients to develop healthy and productive coping skills, communicate effectively with others, and establish a positive and gratifying self-concept. I have specialized training in trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief.
(562) 837-0021 View (562) 837-0021
Photo of Ganna Skrypnyk, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Ganna Skrypnyk
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
With years of experience, I've worked with adolescents, adults, and couples dealing with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationship challenges, personality and mood disorders, self-esteem issues, family conflicts, identity concerns, grief, and loss.
My goal is to create a secure space where you can delve into your challenges, gain deeper understanding, and find clarity. Through a blend of compassion and straightforwardness, I aspire for you to become increasingly confident in confronting life's hurdles. Everyone faces difficulties at various points in life, whether it's navigating complex relationships, coping with work-related stress, or managing significant life changes. You might feel stuck, uncertain, overwhelmed, or isolated during these times. Remember, you don't have to face these challenges alone.
With years of experience, I've worked with adolescents, adults, and couples dealing with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationship challenges, personality and mood disorders, self-esteem issues, family conflicts, identity concerns, grief, and loss.
My goal is to create a secure space where you can delve into your challenges, gain deeper understanding, and find clarity. Through a blend of compassion and straightforwardness, I aspire for you to become increasingly confident in confronting life's hurdles. Everyone faces difficulties at various points in life, whether it's navigating complex relationships, coping with work-related stress, or managing significant life changes. You might feel stuck, uncertain, overwhelmed, or isolated during these times. Remember, you don't have to face these challenges alone.
(323) 541-4301 View (323) 541-4301
Photo of Glenn Philip Ferdinand, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Glenn Philip Ferdinand
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
If you are dealing with depression & anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship difficulties, or any other issue(s) that may be impacting your emotional well-being, therapy may help. I use a “client centered” approach, that will help you develop insight into how the past may be affecting your present, re-frame your thinking to give you a different perspective, and actively process any unresolved pain. Therapy can help you get "unstuck" as you begin to heal and move forward in your life. I provide a safe space in which we can start on this journey together, in a confidential, caring, non-judgmental environment.
If you are dealing with depression & anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship difficulties, or any other issue(s) that may be impacting your emotional well-being, therapy may help. I use a “client centered” approach, that will help you develop insight into how the past may be affecting your present, re-frame your thinking to give you a different perspective, and actively process any unresolved pain. Therapy can help you get "unstuck" as you begin to heal and move forward in your life. I provide a safe space in which we can start on this journey together, in a confidential, caring, non-judgmental environment.
(562) 444-1423 View (562) 444-1423
Photo of Carmen Shelbrack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Carmen Shelbrack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
I am here as a safe and inviting collaborator, let’s work together to address life difficulties nonjudgmentally. My role is to assist you in your process, supporting you in navigating your experiences and empowering you to apply the insights gained in therapy to your life. I am passionate about wellness and plan to join you with genuine curiosity and address any difficulties with mental health symptoms, shame and guilt, phases of life, relationships, grief, sense of self, disconnection, decision-making, anxiety, depression, and more.
I am here as a safe and inviting collaborator, let’s work together to address life difficulties nonjudgmentally. My role is to assist you in your process, supporting you in navigating your experiences and empowering you to apply the insights gained in therapy to your life. I am passionate about wellness and plan to join you with genuine curiosity and address any difficulties with mental health symptoms, shame and guilt, phases of life, relationships, grief, sense of self, disconnection, decision-making, anxiety, depression, and more.
(424) 788-5610 View (424) 788-5610
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.