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 Laura Bloomberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Laura Bloomberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
Sometimes, life can be a bit daunting. Between big life decisions, tragedies, and even days when nothing seems to go right, it's easy to get down, anxious, and feel overwhelmed. I work with adults and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, life's transitions, or need a space of their own to share openly free from bias or judgement.
Sometimes, life can be a bit daunting. Between big life decisions, tragedies, and even days when nothing seems to go right, it's easy to get down, anxious, and feel overwhelmed. I work with adults and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, life's transitions, or need a space of their own to share openly free from bias or judgement.
(424) 955-4709 View (424) 955-4709
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 Rachel Mauricio, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Rachel Mauricio
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90801
My clinical focus centers: trauma, PTSD, and complex PTSD, grief, racialized stress and trauma, identity exploration and expression, full spectrum of pre/perinatal and postpartum experiences, parenting, aging, spiritual growth and liberation, life transitions and transformation.
I specialize in trauma-informed somatic (body-based) therapy for BIPOC. My somatic, psychodynamic, attachment, and spiritual approach supports clients in building a compassionate relationship with themself. My somatic approach also facilitates familiarization with how the nervous system communicates and the relational needs that are expressed through the body.
My clinical focus centers: trauma, PTSD, and complex PTSD, grief, racialized stress and trauma, identity exploration and expression, full spectrum of pre/perinatal and postpartum experiences, parenting, aging, spiritual growth and liberation, life transitions and transformation.
I specialize in trauma-informed somatic (body-based) therapy for BIPOC. My somatic, psychodynamic, attachment, and spiritual approach supports clients in building a compassionate relationship with themself. My somatic approach also facilitates familiarization with how the nervous system communicates and the relational needs that are expressed through the body.
(415) 326-0044 View (415) 326-0044
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 Sandy L. Kaufmann, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Sandy L. Kaufmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAS
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, and specialize in the field of addiction. Over 35 continuous years working with drug, alcohol, sex, and love addiction. Trained in Emotional Transformation Therapy, "ETT" (ETT Addiction Certified) my clients receive rapid removal of symptoms and addictive cravings in many cases. With this exciting new cutting edge therapy, people are removing distressing symptoms that they have unsuccessfully attempted to remove for many years, in only minutes to a few sessions. I also use Gestalt Therapy for healing and teach my clients tools to use at home. I am also trained in EMDR since the early 90's.
Treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, and specialize in the field of addiction. Over 35 continuous years working with drug, alcohol, sex, and love addiction. Trained in Emotional Transformation Therapy, "ETT" (ETT Addiction Certified) my clients receive rapid removal of symptoms and addictive cravings in many cases. With this exciting new cutting edge therapy, people are removing distressing symptoms that they have unsuccessfully attempted to remove for many years, in only minutes to a few sessions. I also use Gestalt Therapy for healing and teach my clients tools to use at home. I am also trained in EMDR since the early 90's.
(562) 669-4595 View (562) 669-4595
Photo of Taleen Barsam, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Taleen Barsam
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90806
I work with clients who are experiencing a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, and self-esteem.
Now Accepting New Clients - - - If you're feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, or a general sense of disconnection, working with a therapist can be a huge step towards relief and healing. I am passionate about supporting you as you gain self-awareness, experience psychological freedom, increase fulfillment in your relationships, and embrace your most authentic self. My approach is holistic, taking into account the integration of mind, body, emotions, will and spirit. Collaboratively, we will take into consideration your needs and goals, while I tailor an approach that best supports your individual journey.
I work with clients who are experiencing a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, and self-esteem.
Now Accepting New Clients - - - If you're feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, or a general sense of disconnection, working with a therapist can be a huge step towards relief and healing. I am passionate about supporting you as you gain self-awareness, experience psychological freedom, increase fulfillment in your relationships, and embrace your most authentic self. My approach is holistic, taking into account the integration of mind, body, emotions, will and spirit. Collaboratively, we will take into consideration your needs and goals, while I tailor an approach that best supports your individual journey.
(562) 276-2827 View (562) 276-2827
Photo of Teela Allen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Teela Allen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMHIMP, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
Waitlist for new clients
How hard is it for you to create balance and focus in a world full of distractions, dishonesty, & dis-ease? And if what I call the "detrimental D's" as stated above contributes to how you act/think/feel, then who or what is really controlling your life & wellbeing? Let me guess: social media, unaddressed trauma, grief & loss, emotional dysregulation, unhealthy boundaries, passiveness, impulsivity, mood or eating disorders, chronic fatigue, aches/pain, anxiety, depression, digestive discomfort, pH imbalances, etc. Talk therapy alone may be unsuccessful or even unappealing, are you interested in exploring something more effective?
How hard is it for you to create balance and focus in a world full of distractions, dishonesty, & dis-ease? And if what I call the "detrimental D's" as stated above contributes to how you act/think/feel, then who or what is really controlling your life & wellbeing? Let me guess: social media, unaddressed trauma, grief & loss, emotional dysregulation, unhealthy boundaries, passiveness, impulsivity, mood or eating disorders, chronic fatigue, aches/pain, anxiety, depression, digestive discomfort, pH imbalances, etc. Talk therapy alone may be unsuccessful or even unappealing, are you interested in exploring something more effective?
(424) 339-2143 View (424) 339-2143
Photo of Aubrey Studebaker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Aubrey Studebaker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
I help people learn to become the hero of their own story. Each new transition you face in life is an opportunity to expand and refine your identity... but there are also pitfalls. We get hurt, we lose our way, we get caught up in shame and self-doubt. I work with a lot of grief, loss, and confusion around life changes. I've got a lot of experience with folks who have been adopted or in foster care — and people who find themselves feeling alone after a split from their family, their culture, or their religious faith. I'm passionate about helping people find their way into the next, better chapter of life.
I help people learn to become the hero of their own story. Each new transition you face in life is an opportunity to expand and refine your identity... but there are also pitfalls. We get hurt, we lose our way, we get caught up in shame and self-doubt. I work with a lot of grief, loss, and confusion around life changes. I've got a lot of experience with folks who have been adopted or in foster care — and people who find themselves feeling alone after a split from their family, their culture, or their religious faith. I'm passionate about helping people find their way into the next, better chapter of life.
(562) 242-7890 View (562) 242-7890
Photo of Dorit Saberi - Thrive Psychological Services, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Dorit Saberi - Thrive Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with various evidence-based modalities as well as alternative and somatic therapies. I currently work at Harbor UCLA as a Clinical Director of a Trauma service and as Associate Professor at UCLA, David Geffen School of Medicine. I am Bilingual in Hebrew and English. Areas of specialization: Mood disorders; anxiety disorders; post traumatic stress disorder; life transition and adjustment issues; bereavement and loss; couple and relationship therapy; Family therapy; Parenting strategies; work related stress. I am also available for lectures, and trainings and certifications (Prolonged Exposure)
I have extensive experience working with various evidence-based modalities as well as alternative and somatic therapies. I currently work at Harbor UCLA as a Clinical Director of a Trauma service and as Associate Professor at UCLA, David Geffen School of Medicine. I am Bilingual in Hebrew and English. Areas of specialization: Mood disorders; anxiety disorders; post traumatic stress disorder; life transition and adjustment issues; bereavement and loss; couple and relationship therapy; Family therapy; Parenting strategies; work related stress. I am also available for lectures, and trainings and certifications (Prolonged Exposure)
(424) 374-1433 View (424) 374-1433
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
Photo of Laurel Lass, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Laurel Lass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
I use GIM to address women's issues, parenting, codependency, grief and loss, and women in recovery.
I am excited about clients who want to enrich both their inner and outer lives. You may find yourself at times confused, angry, depressed, or anxious, when what you want is greater clarity, more joy and happiness, and greater peace of mind both in relationship to self and others. I use Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) in my work with clients to tap into their own deep knowing and healing nature, which sometimes gets buried deep within. With music and imagery, a gentle recovery of self in initiated and stimulated. I love working with female adolescents, young college students, parents, and women of all ages.
I use GIM to address women's issues, parenting, codependency, grief and loss, and women in recovery.
I am excited about clients who want to enrich both their inner and outer lives. You may find yourself at times confused, angry, depressed, or anxious, when what you want is greater clarity, more joy and happiness, and greater peace of mind both in relationship to self and others. I use Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) in my work with clients to tap into their own deep knowing and healing nature, which sometimes gets buried deep within. With music and imagery, a gentle recovery of self in initiated and stimulated. I love working with female adolescents, young college students, parents, and women of all ages.
(949) 556-9846 View (949) 556-9846
Photo of Jaime Dunham, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Jaime Dunham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
My name is Jaime and I'm an LMFT that specializes in working with anxiety disorders, parenting challenges, grief and loss, perinatal and postpartum concerns, and general child concerns. Therapy with me is a collaborative process where we aim to explore and work towards your goals, deepen your self understanding, and improve your confidence. Some of my training includes Child Parent Psychotherapy, Certified Diplomate of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy, ERP for OCD, training through the Selective Mutism Institute, Reflective Parenting, Level 1 and 2 training through Postpartum Support International, and level 1 Gottman training.
My name is Jaime and I'm an LMFT that specializes in working with anxiety disorders, parenting challenges, grief and loss, perinatal and postpartum concerns, and general child concerns. Therapy with me is a collaborative process where we aim to explore and work towards your goals, deepen your self understanding, and improve your confidence. Some of my training includes Child Parent Psychotherapy, Certified Diplomate of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy, ERP for OCD, training through the Selective Mutism Institute, Reflective Parenting, Level 1 and 2 training through Postpartum Support International, and level 1 Gottman training.
(562) 222-0258 View (562) 222-0258
Photo of LaTianna Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
LaTianna Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, CTRS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90804
I help clients get through grief, trauma, resentments, depression, anxiety, infidelity, sex issues and perpetual issues.
Feeling unsatisfied with your relationship lately, and not sure how to deal with it? Maybe you find yourself feeling less love and light, being disconnected from self or others? Do you desire relief, emotional stability, and healthy love? Do you want to heal and move forward? You’ve come to the right place! I enjoy working with couples, individuals and families to love themselves in a whole new way while increasing pleasure, deep connection, freedom of expression, and healthy discipline. I provide sacred space to guide you in becoming your best self - fully expressed and filled with inner power and devotional love.
I help clients get through grief, trauma, resentments, depression, anxiety, infidelity, sex issues and perpetual issues.
Feeling unsatisfied with your relationship lately, and not sure how to deal with it? Maybe you find yourself feeling less love and light, being disconnected from self or others? Do you desire relief, emotional stability, and healthy love? Do you want to heal and move forward? You’ve come to the right place! I enjoy working with couples, individuals and families to love themselves in a whole new way while increasing pleasure, deep connection, freedom of expression, and healthy discipline. I provide sacred space to guide you in becoming your best self - fully expressed and filled with inner power and devotional love.
(562) 378-6914 View (562) 378-6914
Photo of Don Diva, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Don Diva
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
I'm best suited to treat relationship problems, depression, father wounds, men with sexual addiction and grief/loss issues.
Are you stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns? Are you coping with the stress of life in destructive ways- by bottling up your feelings or acting out through addiction or in toxic relationships? You do not have to struggle alone. During the different stages of our lives, our relationships, and our family life cycle, we can get stuck in certain places. As your therapist we would work together to help you find what you need so that you can move through these stuck places, experience healthier relationships, find hope and be free from destructive behaviors.
I'm best suited to treat relationship problems, depression, father wounds, men with sexual addiction and grief/loss issues.
Are you stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns? Are you coping with the stress of life in destructive ways- by bottling up your feelings or acting out through addiction or in toxic relationships? You do not have to struggle alone. During the different stages of our lives, our relationships, and our family life cycle, we can get stuck in certain places. As your therapist we would work together to help you find what you need so that you can move through these stuck places, experience healthier relationships, find hope and be free from destructive behaviors.
(714) 882-5711 x3 View (714) 882-5711 x3
Photo of Joanna Rogers, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Joanna Rogers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90804
I have experience helping patients overcome obstacles such as anxiety, trauma, depression, grief and loss, substance abuse, difficult life transitions, and much more.
My style is warm, down-to-earth, and creative. I try to do my best to provide a welcoming and safe environment for my patients to express themselves. I have a passion for working with patients who are seeking a meaningful life and see value in deepening their self-awareness. I take an integrative approach to treating patients, recognizing the individual needs of each person.
I have experience helping patients overcome obstacles such as anxiety, trauma, depression, grief and loss, substance abuse, difficult life transitions, and much more.
My style is warm, down-to-earth, and creative. I try to do my best to provide a welcoming and safe environment for my patients to express themselves. I have a passion for working with patients who are seeking a meaningful life and see value in deepening their self-awareness. I take an integrative approach to treating patients, recognizing the individual needs of each person.
(562) 371-0156 View (562) 371-0156
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 Soul Restoration Project, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Soul Restoration Project
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Are you looking for counseling that integrates your Christian faith into the healing process? Are you looking for a therapist who can both understand the issue you struggle with as well as your spirituality? The Soul Restoration Project is a group of Marriage and Family Therapists (licensed and pre-licensed) who help individuals and couples find hope and healing. With nine therapists on staff we have a number of areas of expertise including: sexual addiction, relationship issues, eating disorders, couples therapy, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety and parenting.
Are you looking for counseling that integrates your Christian faith into the healing process? Are you looking for a therapist who can both understand the issue you struggle with as well as your spirituality? The Soul Restoration Project is a group of Marriage and Family Therapists (licensed and pre-licensed) who help individuals and couples find hope and healing. With nine therapists on staff we have a number of areas of expertise including: sexual addiction, relationship issues, eating disorders, couples therapy, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety and parenting.
(714) 702-1730 View (714) 702-1730
Photo of Lisa Gilbert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Lisa Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90808
I like helping clients regain control over reactive tendencies and negative beliefs held about themselves.Digging into the root cause is important.There are big "T" traumas such as serious accidents, disasters, assaults, surgeries/illnesses, death, and war that impact us.In addition, there are little "t" traumas such as being made fun of, or hurtful words said years ago that may seem insignificant but are often linked to mental health symptoms.These incidences from your past can result in depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, powerlessness, inadequacy, lack of choice, lack of control, and an inability to be present.
I like helping clients regain control over reactive tendencies and negative beliefs held about themselves.Digging into the root cause is important.There are big "T" traumas such as serious accidents, disasters, assaults, surgeries/illnesses, death, and war that impact us.In addition, there are little "t" traumas such as being made fun of, or hurtful words said years ago that may seem insignificant but are often linked to mental health symptoms.These incidences from your past can result in depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, powerlessness, inadequacy, lack of choice, lack of control, and an inability to be present.
(480) 571-1606 View (480) 571-1606
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
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.