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 Icinda Siqueira-Darwin, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Icinda Siqueira-Darwin
Psychologist, PhD,
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
My usual clients are young adults, under 45 years age,(I do see children and elders), experiencing mood disorders such as depression, or anxiety. Substance abuse issues are frequently involved, or alcohol abuse. There are always relationship issues with others involved as well. The Goals of Therapy include feeling happier, calmer, more at peace, to reducing substance abuse and alcohol abuse. They want to learn how to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
My usual clients are young adults, under 45 years age,(I do see children and elders), experiencing mood disorders such as depression, or anxiety. Substance abuse issues are frequently involved, or alcohol abuse. There are always relationship issues with others involved as well. The Goals of Therapy include feeling happier, calmer, more at peace, to reducing substance abuse and alcohol abuse. They want to learn how to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
(562) 303-5525 View (562) 303-5525
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 Carol Seixas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Carol Seixas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, OTRL
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90801
Hello and welcome. I have over 40 years of experience working in the health field and have provided services in a wide range of mental health settings. The patient/client populations I have had the opportunity to help run the full gamut of mental health needs from the serious mentally ill to the person/family who have never needed to see a therapist until "now". I additionally provide support for the system/family new to mental health with education, skills and linking to resources.
Hello and welcome. I have over 40 years of experience working in the health field and have provided services in a wide range of mental health settings. The patient/client populations I have had the opportunity to help run the full gamut of mental health needs from the serious mentally ill to the person/family who have never needed to see a therapist until "now". I additionally provide support for the system/family new to mental health with education, skills and linking to resources.
(562) 275-8354 View (562) 275-8354
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
Photo of Pacific Therapy Group, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Pacific Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Pacific Pain & Wellness Group treats mental health and pain conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Our mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, we construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Pacific Pain & Wellness Group treats mental health and pain conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Our mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, we construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
(310) 868-2264 View (310) 868-2264

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hugo Pastore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Hugo Pastore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90501
Issues may be present for you that you not sure how to address, and you may be hesitant to seek help. I am a former professor of psychology for the University of Phoenix. As a therapist, a teacher and also as having had my own therapy for a number of years, I have learned that taking the first step and admitting a problem is always the hardest step to take. Do not hesitate and do not let fear keep you from taking that crucial first step; call or write me or another therapist of your choosing and do obtain the help that you may need.
Issues may be present for you that you not sure how to address, and you may be hesitant to seek help. I am a former professor of psychology for the University of Phoenix. As a therapist, a teacher and also as having had my own therapy for a number of years, I have learned that taking the first step and admitting a problem is always the hardest step to take. Do not hesitate and do not let fear keep you from taking that crucial first step; call or write me or another therapist of your choosing and do obtain the help that you may need.
(310) 773-0705 View (310) 773-0705
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 Open Mind Health , Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Open Mind Health
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, isolation, relationship/family issues? At Open Mind Health, we get to the “root cause” of what’s actually leading to your emotional challenges, while treating the resulting issues and developing lasting solutions to help you feel optimistic and hopeful. With ease-of-access to our advanced telehealth platform or in-person visits, our expert psychiatrists and therapists offer highly individualized care wherever you are and whenever you need it. Our therapists and life coaches are compassionate and forward-thinkers. Call us today at 855-550-6063 to get started!
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, isolation, relationship/family issues? At Open Mind Health, we get to the “root cause” of what’s actually leading to your emotional challenges, while treating the resulting issues and developing lasting solutions to help you feel optimistic and hopeful. With ease-of-access to our advanced telehealth platform or in-person visits, our expert psychiatrists and therapists offer highly individualized care wherever you are and whenever you need it. Our therapists and life coaches are compassionate and forward-thinkers. Call us today at 855-550-6063 to get started!
(619) 279-5464 View (619) 279-5464
Photo of Gozde Gokozan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Gozde Gokozan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT, LPCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
My approach to psychotherapy is empathic, collaborative and unique to each individual's own needs. I believe the most important component of therapy is establishing a genuine relational connection. I strive to create a therapeutic environment in which clients feel comfortable, respectful, supportive and understood in order to actively explore deep personal issues and experiment with new ways of thinking. I provide a unique psychotherapy to treat a wide variety of conditions including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, LGBT issues, attachment issues, OCD, kleptomania and grief.
My approach to psychotherapy is empathic, collaborative and unique to each individual's own needs. I believe the most important component of therapy is establishing a genuine relational connection. I strive to create a therapeutic environment in which clients feel comfortable, respectful, supportive and understood in order to actively explore deep personal issues and experiment with new ways of thinking. I provide a unique psychotherapy to treat a wide variety of conditions including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, LGBT issues, attachment issues, OCD, kleptomania and grief.
(424) 321-6283 View (424) 321-6283
Photo of Dr. Rumana Mansur, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Dr. Rumana Mansur
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Hi there - I'm Dr. Mansur, a licensed Clinical Psychologist. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, loss experiences or re-emerging past trauma? Are you experiencing stress from work, school or family? Are you looking for emotional relief or a path to achieve personal growth? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, I could help you learn new ways to think and develop new skills. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe and accepting environment for you to share challenges you may be facing. We start by identifying an attainable goal and understanding your distress in context.
Hi there - I'm Dr. Mansur, a licensed Clinical Psychologist. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, loss experiences or re-emerging past trauma? Are you experiencing stress from work, school or family? Are you looking for emotional relief or a path to achieve personal growth? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, I could help you learn new ways to think and develop new skills. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe and accepting environment for you to share challenges you may be facing. We start by identifying an attainable goal and understanding your distress in context.
(657) 220-6216 View (657) 220-6216
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 Tara Bass, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Tara Bass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Crescenta, CA 91214  (Online Only)
There are many reasons why you might be seeking help at this time, and it is an act of strength and bravery to take this step. Together we can work together to foster healthy coping, connect to your feelings, align the heart with the mind, create vision and clarity, and discover inherent confidence, wisdom and worthiness. If you find yourself struggling with having vision and clarity, grief and loss, have been engaging in unhealthy behaviors and are having difficulty making the changes you desire, or you or a loved one are struggling with a chronic illness, we can work together to address your needs.
There are many reasons why you might be seeking help at this time, and it is an act of strength and bravery to take this step. Together we can work together to foster healthy coping, connect to your feelings, align the heart with the mind, create vision and clarity, and discover inherent confidence, wisdom and worthiness. If you find yourself struggling with having vision and clarity, grief and loss, have been engaging in unhealthy behaviors and are having difficulty making the changes you desire, or you or a loved one are struggling with a chronic illness, we can work together to address your needs.
(415) 886-1211 View (415) 886-1211
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 Thomas Locke, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Thomas Locke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
For over 25 years, I've helped thousands of people overcome many different problems including: life transitions (aging, death, divorce, career change), depression, trauma, stress, anxiety, addictions, executive burnout, relationship distress, and anger expression.
A commitment to excellence has been the guiding principle in my career. I received my training and education from prestigious programs including USC, Univ. of Michigan Medical School, UCLA Medical School, and the Ann Arbor VAMC. I have a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology and a Masters in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling. I was taught and trained by some of the best in the field. I am regarded as an expert in different areas by authoring numerous peer-reviewed publications and giving dozens of presentations. I am committed to and passionate about helping people grow, change, and live fuller, happier, more productive lives.
For over 25 years, I've helped thousands of people overcome many different problems including: life transitions (aging, death, divorce, career change), depression, trauma, stress, anxiety, addictions, executive burnout, relationship distress, and anger expression.
A commitment to excellence has been the guiding principle in my career. I received my training and education from prestigious programs including USC, Univ. of Michigan Medical School, UCLA Medical School, and the Ann Arbor VAMC. I have a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology and a Masters in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling. I was taught and trained by some of the best in the field. I am regarded as an expert in different areas by authoring numerous peer-reviewed publications and giving dozens of presentations. I am committed to and passionate about helping people grow, change, and live fuller, happier, more productive lives.
(805) 279-7007 View (805) 279-7007
Photo of Professor Asher W. Allan in Long Beach, CA
Professor Asher W. Allan
CCHt
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Quitting Smoking, Weight Loss, Anxiety, Relationships, Sports, Career & Life Coaching, etc.
People often see me when they have tried everything. Imagine what you could achieve if you got straight to the point. While different therapists may be suited to different clients, my high success rate is due to 15 years teaching college level psychology and my exceptional training in hypnotherapy by arguably some of the world's best. Over the years I have helped hundreds of people realize the success they desire. My technique allows you to see immediate results and requires minimal time. There's so much to gain.
Quitting Smoking, Weight Loss, Anxiety, Relationships, Sports, Career & Life Coaching, etc.
People often see me when they have tried everything. Imagine what you could achieve if you got straight to the point. While different therapists may be suited to different clients, my high success rate is due to 15 years teaching college level psychology and my exceptional training in hypnotherapy by arguably some of the world's best. Over the years I have helped hundreds of people realize the success they desire. My technique allows you to see immediate results and requires minimal time. There's so much to gain.
(619) 536-0580 View (619) 536-0580
Photo of Yvonne L. Westbrook, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Yvonne L. Westbrook
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Hollywood, CA 90068
Some of the issues I help with are: depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief and loss, substance abuse, relationship issues, familial conflict, sexual identity, mood disturbances, disturbances of personality, gambling, shopping & sex addiction, social issues and phobias, trichotillomania and body focused repetitive behavior disorders.
I do my best to keep an open mind and to create an environment that is conducive to fostering open communication and trust. I respect and value the thoughts and feelings of my client's. I believe that therapy is, ultimately, about freedom and that healing occurs through the process of self-exploration, understanding, finding meaning and deepening one's insight. I tend to work directly and dynamically, rather than passively; I do a lot of listening and I am also active in the therapeutic role.
Some of the issues I help with are: depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief and loss, substance abuse, relationship issues, familial conflict, sexual identity, mood disturbances, disturbances of personality, gambling, shopping & sex addiction, social issues and phobias, trichotillomania and body focused repetitive behavior disorders.
I do my best to keep an open mind and to create an environment that is conducive to fostering open communication and trust. I respect and value the thoughts and feelings of my client's. I believe that therapy is, ultimately, about freedom and that healing occurs through the process of self-exploration, understanding, finding meaning and deepening one's insight. I tend to work directly and dynamically, rather than passively; I do a lot of listening and I am also active in the therapeutic role.
(323) 387-3979 View (323) 387-3979
Photo of Diagnostic & Counseling Center, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Diagnostic & Counseling Center
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step" -Lao Tzu. During this unprecedented time of uncertainty, change, & loss, many of us are struggling in different ways. Acknowledging your challenges & seeking help are the first steps in healing. At Diagnostic & Counseling Center, we have a diverse group of clinicians to offer support to individuals, couples, & families. We believe that each person possesses special strengths, & we strive to build upon these to facilitate growth. During therapy, we encourage clients to engage in self-exploration & provide tools to help individuals lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step" -Lao Tzu. During this unprecedented time of uncertainty, change, & loss, many of us are struggling in different ways. Acknowledging your challenges & seeking help are the first steps in healing. At Diagnostic & Counseling Center, we have a diverse group of clinicians to offer support to individuals, couples, & families. We believe that each person possesses special strengths, & we strive to build upon these to facilitate growth. During therapy, we encourage clients to engage in self-exploration & provide tools to help individuals lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
(747) 285-7570 View (747) 285-7570

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.