Photo of Dr. Christina M. Charlotin, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Dr. Christina M. Charlotin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
I work with adults who experience depression, anxiety disorders (agoraphobia, panic disorder, social anxiety, specific phobias), OCD, relationship challenges or loss, phase-of-life stressors, procrastination, & LGBTQ or Race related trauma.
Compared to many other psychologists, my therapy style may be more goal oriented, assertive, and with a stronger focus on observing and measuring therapeutic progress over longer term emotional processing. My approach is based on my belief that we do have the power to create healthy emotions & dismantle unwanted emotions. When meeting with you, I'll want to understand how your ongoing circumstances, emotions, behaviors, or thoughts impact the short term as well as the overall outcomes in your life. I base my treatment on evidenced-based inventions, eastern & wellness perspectives, and a conscious awareness approach.
I work with adults who experience depression, anxiety disorders (agoraphobia, panic disorder, social anxiety, specific phobias), OCD, relationship challenges or loss, phase-of-life stressors, procrastination, & LGBTQ or Race related trauma.
Compared to many other psychologists, my therapy style may be more goal oriented, assertive, and with a stronger focus on observing and measuring therapeutic progress over longer term emotional processing. My approach is based on my belief that we do have the power to create healthy emotions & dismantle unwanted emotions. When meeting with you, I'll want to understand how your ongoing circumstances, emotions, behaviors, or thoughts impact the short term as well as the overall outcomes in your life. I base my treatment on evidenced-based inventions, eastern & wellness perspectives, and a conscious awareness approach.
(323) 508-2096 View (323) 508-2096
Photo of Michelle Taylor, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Long Beach, CA
Michelle Taylor
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
People who have anxiety, self-esteem, grief, depression and relationship issues.
Accepting new clients/couples NOW- Online Video Therapy - Couples and individuals! I am a direct, tell-it-how-it-is therapist. I don't want you to be in therapy forever... we get straight to the root, do the work, get the skills you need and you become your own therapist. 8-10 sessions is the goal. If you're not ready to do the work, I'm not the therapist for you. But, if you're ready to step into courage and out of comfort, I'm ready to charge the storm with you. Couples like my straightforward approach, giving you the proven communication skills for healthier relationships. Do the hard, courageous thing and email me.
People who have anxiety, self-esteem, grief, depression and relationship issues.
Accepting new clients/couples NOW- Online Video Therapy - Couples and individuals! I am a direct, tell-it-how-it-is therapist. I don't want you to be in therapy forever... we get straight to the root, do the work, get the skills you need and you become your own therapist. 8-10 sessions is the goal. If you're not ready to do the work, I'm not the therapist for you. But, if you're ready to step into courage and out of comfort, I'm ready to charge the storm with you. Couples like my straightforward approach, giving you the proven communication skills for healthier relationships. Do the hard, courageous thing and email me.
(562) 317-7556 View (562) 317-7556
Photo of Candyce Spruel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Candyce Spruel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
Hi I am Candyce Spruel a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT). I have been counseling for over 20 years. I am a client centered humanistic therapist. I approach every situation with a non-judgmental and empathic view. I am client focused and I met my clients where they are. I work with clients who have symptoms of anxiety, depression and psychosis. Many of my clients are survivors of childhood trauma.
Hi I am Candyce Spruel a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT). I have been counseling for over 20 years. I am a client centered humanistic therapist. I approach every situation with a non-judgmental and empathic view. I am client focused and I met my clients where they are. I work with clients who have symptoms of anxiety, depression and psychosis. Many of my clients are survivors of childhood trauma.
(559) 648-9299 View (559) 648-9299
Photo of John Edward Martin, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
John Edward Martin
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90801
I work with individuals and couples in the areas of conflict, stress, anger control, PTSD, depression and anxiety, as well as marital distress and breakdown. My primary approach combines evidence-based cognitive-behavioral therapy, with motivational as well as spiritual approaches to change. I also work with veterans and others dealing with traumatic memories, with the assistance of my trained and certified service dog - a gentle black Labrador. I am a certified professional trauma therapist and conduct evaluations and treatment for PTSD, and a certified professional life coach, and can work remotely via Internet in for a lower fee
I work with individuals and couples in the areas of conflict, stress, anger control, PTSD, depression and anxiety, as well as marital distress and breakdown. My primary approach combines evidence-based cognitive-behavioral therapy, with motivational as well as spiritual approaches to change. I also work with veterans and others dealing with traumatic memories, with the assistance of my trained and certified service dog - a gentle black Labrador. I am a certified professional trauma therapist and conduct evaluations and treatment for PTSD, and a certified professional life coach, and can work remotely via Internet in for a lower fee
(877) 651-3370 View (877) 651-3370
Photo of Sharareh Namjoo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Sharareh Namjoo
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90745
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Doctor of Psychology. It has been my greatest pleasure to assist my clients in overcoming obstacles and achieving happiness and fulfillment in every phase of their lives. I find it heart-warming to mentor and guide individuals and families through their differences, difficulties, and conflicts. With 23 years of experience working with diverse clients, I have developed a wide range of tools and treatment styles to help them overcome every challenging stage in their lives.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Doctor of Psychology. It has been my greatest pleasure to assist my clients in overcoming obstacles and achieving happiness and fulfillment in every phase of their lives. I find it heart-warming to mentor and guide individuals and families through their differences, difficulties, and conflicts. With 23 years of experience working with diverse clients, I have developed a wide range of tools and treatment styles to help them overcome every challenging stage in their lives.
(714) 577-2365 View (714) 577-2365

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kevin Torchen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Kevin Torchen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90805
Kevin Torchen, LCSW. It takes courage to engage in the therapeutic process. I try my best to make this a valuable and rewarding experience and to be an ally and collaborator with my clients in achieving treatment and life goals. My experience comes from working with clients with a broad spectrum of specific traits and symptoms in need of healthy change and integration. Clients who are struggling with symptoms relating to anxiety, depression, stress, life change, emotional volatility, sleep issues, relationship issues, obsessive and compulsive traits, and trauma, along with any other related struggle.
Kevin Torchen, LCSW. It takes courage to engage in the therapeutic process. I try my best to make this a valuable and rewarding experience and to be an ally and collaborator with my clients in achieving treatment and life goals. My experience comes from working with clients with a broad spectrum of specific traits and symptoms in need of healthy change and integration. Clients who are struggling with symptoms relating to anxiety, depression, stress, life change, emotional volatility, sleep issues, relationship issues, obsessive and compulsive traits, and trauma, along with any other related struggle.
(323) 310-3941 View (323) 310-3941
Photo of Alison Lynn Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Alison Lynn Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Garden Grove, CA 92845
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
(714) 654-1570 View (714) 654-1570

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Linda Thompson, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Dr. Linda Thompson
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I have specialized training in trauma and grief.
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
I have specialized training in trauma and grief.
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
(310) 896-4194 View (310) 896-4194
Photo of Negar Khaefi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Negar Khaefi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Whether you are going through a tough transition, a traumatic loss, or a severe anxiety disorder, I would love to help.
Are you living with a traumatic past, or severe anxiety? I am an Anxiety and PTSD specialist. My expertise is in treating Career/Romantic Anxiety, Panic, OCD, Traumatic Memories, Nightmares, and Social Anxiety. My typical clients experience debilitating Panic Attacks, Trauma Flashbacks, Feelings of Unreality, Insomnia, Feelings of Detachment, Fear of Death/Suicide, Losing Control, Fear of Going Insane, Fear of leaving the house, Fear of Embarrassment/Rejection, Fear of Being Trapped, Driving Anxiety, Violent Intrusive Thoughts, Constant Daily Anxiety about Work, Love Life, and Transitions.
Whether you are going through a tough transition, a traumatic loss, or a severe anxiety disorder, I would love to help.
Are you living with a traumatic past, or severe anxiety? I am an Anxiety and PTSD specialist. My expertise is in treating Career/Romantic Anxiety, Panic, OCD, Traumatic Memories, Nightmares, and Social Anxiety. My typical clients experience debilitating Panic Attacks, Trauma Flashbacks, Feelings of Unreality, Insomnia, Feelings of Detachment, Fear of Death/Suicide, Losing Control, Fear of Going Insane, Fear of leaving the house, Fear of Embarrassment/Rejection, Fear of Being Trapped, Driving Anxiety, Violent Intrusive Thoughts, Constant Daily Anxiety about Work, Love Life, and Transitions.
(310) 692-4959 View (310) 692-4959
Photo of Carter Care Therapeutic Services, Margena Carter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Carter Care Therapeutic Services, Margena Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Segundo, CA 90245
If you're experiencing depression, low self-esteem, isolation, stress, anxiety, grief & loss, substance abuse, internet addiction, childhood trauma, PTSD, codependency, relational difficulties, abusive relationships, divorce, domestic violence, anger issues, a child with behavioral problems, LBGTQ issues, or you work in entertainment, we're here for you.
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. Carter Care Therapeutic Services is dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, our team of Licensed Therapist will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. We can assist you in resolving your past pain! We will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. Carter Care Therapist are here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
If you're experiencing depression, low self-esteem, isolation, stress, anxiety, grief & loss, substance abuse, internet addiction, childhood trauma, PTSD, codependency, relational difficulties, abusive relationships, divorce, domestic violence, anger issues, a child with behavioral problems, LBGTQ issues, or you work in entertainment, we're here for you.
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. Carter Care Therapeutic Services is dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, our team of Licensed Therapist will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. We can assist you in resolving your past pain! We will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. Carter Care Therapist are here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
(415) 319-9641 View (415) 319-9641
Photo of Kiandra Hebert, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Kiandra Hebert
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
People may seek help after a loss, divorce, or life transition.
Accepting clients in person & video. I provide a comfortable, accepting place where you can gain insights and specific skills to help you feel your best. Often we have deep beliefs about ourselves that can hold us back. Our systems can become overloaded with the stress of modern life. I can help you develop a plan to achieve your goals, have more confidence, & feel more at ease. We are an energy system that can learn to better regulate itself and experience more tranquility, joy, and happiness & better manage sadness and anxiety. I use a variety of research based techniques that I tailor to your needs and preferences.
People may seek help after a loss, divorce, or life transition.
Accepting clients in person & video. I provide a comfortable, accepting place where you can gain insights and specific skills to help you feel your best. Often we have deep beliefs about ourselves that can hold us back. Our systems can become overloaded with the stress of modern life. I can help you develop a plan to achieve your goals, have more confidence, & feel more at ease. We are an energy system that can learn to better regulate itself and experience more tranquility, joy, and happiness & better manage sadness and anxiety. I use a variety of research based techniques that I tailor to your needs and preferences.
(949) 264-5515 View (949) 264-5515
Photo of John Mingo, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
John Mingo
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92128  (Online Only)
I have experience meeting a variety of individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, medical-related issues, grief and loss.
I offer a genuine, straight-forward approach to psychotherapy. This approach includes identifying specific goals and the mastery of real-life coping skills: all with the support you deserve. Having 20 years of experience in the Rancho Bernardo/Rancho Santa Fe/Poway area, I have worked in clinic and hospital settings in addition to private practice. Age range of my clients: teenagers to older adults. I also offer families and individuals comprehensive assistance setting up an entire treatment team of professionals (psychologist, psychiatrist, etc.). You can start this life-changing process with a free phone consultation.
I have experience meeting a variety of individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, medical-related issues, grief and loss.
I offer a genuine, straight-forward approach to psychotherapy. This approach includes identifying specific goals and the mastery of real-life coping skills: all with the support you deserve. Having 20 years of experience in the Rancho Bernardo/Rancho Santa Fe/Poway area, I have worked in clinic and hospital settings in addition to private practice. Age range of my clients: teenagers to older adults. I also offer families and individuals comprehensive assistance setting up an entire treatment team of professionals (psychologist, psychiatrist, etc.). You can start this life-changing process with a free phone consultation.
(619) 780-2497 View (619) 780-2497
Photo of Ronald R Hall, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Ronald R Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CTS, BSCC, PM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Corona, CA 92883
Want a caring, encouraging, highly-trained Christian Therapist? I am ready to help you find solutions! I have 20 years of experience in helping with depression; anxiety; grief; trauma/victimization; relationships; marriage; child, teenager, family issues; ADD; and, codependency / addictions as well as a Care Pastor and Clinical Director dealing with Recovery. I care about helping you find answers to your life problems. Together we will make a plan of action. I will give you honest feedback on a weekly basis about your progress. I would feel honored to have the opportunity to help you. Give me a call with questions!
Want a caring, encouraging, highly-trained Christian Therapist? I am ready to help you find solutions! I have 20 years of experience in helping with depression; anxiety; grief; trauma/victimization; relationships; marriage; child, teenager, family issues; ADD; and, codependency / addictions as well as a Care Pastor and Clinical Director dealing with Recovery. I care about helping you find answers to your life problems. Together we will make a plan of action. I will give you honest feedback on a weekly basis about your progress. I would feel honored to have the opportunity to help you. Give me a call with questions!
(951) 255-2340 View (951) 255-2340
Photo of Stephanie Swope, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Long Beach, CA
Stephanie Swope
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, PPS, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
I'm qualified to help with many challenges; however, I specialize in using trauma-informed techniques like somatic experiencing and IFS to help with CPTSD, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, and grief.
Are you struggling to change? Do you know in your mind what you need to do but can't get your emotions or body to do it? Do you repeat relationships or patterns and wish you could break the endless cycle? Maybe little things feel more frustrating or overwhelming than usual. Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. Even when we know the cause, change can still feel impossible. That's where I come in. My job is to listen without judgment, help you understand the root causes of your issues, and teach you practical tools to change your life.
I'm qualified to help with many challenges; however, I specialize in using trauma-informed techniques like somatic experiencing and IFS to help with CPTSD, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, and grief.
Are you struggling to change? Do you know in your mind what you need to do but can't get your emotions or body to do it? Do you repeat relationships or patterns and wish you could break the endless cycle? Maybe little things feel more frustrating or overwhelming than usual. Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. Even when we know the cause, change can still feel impossible. That's where I come in. My job is to listen without judgment, help you understand the root causes of your issues, and teach you practical tools to change your life.
(707) 241-9070 View (707) 241-9070
Photo of Adam Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Adam Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in San Diego, California who has been working in the field of psychology since 2013. I have experience working in residential, schools, outpatient, and crisis settings as well as work now in my own private practice with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, addiction, relationship issues, parenting problems, social concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, trauma, abuse, crisis situations, and general adjustment issues. I have diagnosed and helped clients work through most of the disorders listed in the DSM-5.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in San Diego, California who has been working in the field of psychology since 2013. I have experience working in residential, schools, outpatient, and crisis settings as well as work now in my own private practice with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, addiction, relationship issues, parenting problems, social concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, trauma, abuse, crisis situations, and general adjustment issues. I have diagnosed and helped clients work through most of the disorders listed in the DSM-5.
(619) 345-5939 View (619) 345-5939
Photo of High Desert Wellness , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
High Desert Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Victorville, CA 92395
Managing high levels of stress and processing past unresolved trauma/negative emotions (anger, resentment, grief) is critical for our health as stress and anxiety can contribute to a wide array of medical illness, diseases and chronic pain. Using a client-centered approach we specialize in a variety of therapeutic modalities and holistic health services to meet each individual's needs to align the mind, body and spirit. Seeking motivated individuals ready to make peace with their past, rewire/replace unhealthy habits in the present and evolve towards the future they choose to create by learning how to self-regulate and self-soothe.
Managing high levels of stress and processing past unresolved trauma/negative emotions (anger, resentment, grief) is critical for our health as stress and anxiety can contribute to a wide array of medical illness, diseases and chronic pain. Using a client-centered approach we specialize in a variety of therapeutic modalities and holistic health services to meet each individual's needs to align the mind, body and spirit. Seeking motivated individuals ready to make peace with their past, rewire/replace unhealthy habits in the present and evolve towards the future they choose to create by learning how to self-regulate and self-soothe.
(760) 913-1324 View (760) 913-1324
Photo of Rachel Coates-Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Rachel Coates-Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361  (Online Only)
We all have moments of difficulty in our lives. Sometimes these difficulties are due to unexpected life circumstances or life transitions and some difficulties are caused by underlining mental health challenges or disorders. Engaging in therapy is one tool that a person can use to assist with working through and managing these difficulties.
We all have moments of difficulty in our lives. Sometimes these difficulties are due to unexpected life circumstances or life transitions and some difficulties are caused by underlining mental health challenges or disorders. Engaging in therapy is one tool that a person can use to assist with working through and managing these difficulties.
(805) 429-2607 View (805) 429-2607
Photo of Julia Mendoza, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Julia Mendoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92110  (Online Only)
Hello I'm Julia Mendoza, a therapist providing therapy throughout the state of California. I have experience working with children and adults, in the areas of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, LGBT+ issues, OCD, personality disorders, family problems, relationship and partner conflict, and traumas. I truly enjoy helping others and I have been told that I am funny, genuine, open-minded, and a good listener. Se habla Español!
Hello I'm Julia Mendoza, a therapist providing therapy throughout the state of California. I have experience working with children and adults, in the areas of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, LGBT+ issues, OCD, personality disorders, family problems, relationship and partner conflict, and traumas. I truly enjoy helping others and I have been told that I am funny, genuine, open-minded, and a good listener. Se habla Español!
(951) 438-7873 View (951) 438-7873
Photo of Mindful Health Solutions, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Mindful Health Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I practice general psychology and works with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, prenatal and postpartum issues, anger, parenting challenges, and couples issues. I also have a concentrated interest in the family of origin trauma.
I practice general psychology and works with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, prenatal and postpartum issues, anger, parenting challenges, and couples issues. I also have a concentrated interest in the family of origin trauma.
(323) 529-0824 View (323) 529-0824
Photo of Hyim J Ross, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Hyim J Ross
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291
Struggling with emotion disregulation? Anxious or depressed? Self medicating? You will have to create new patterns of behavior and thought to deal with the old destructive behaviors and thoughts. Self-compassion through self awareness. I can help you thrive and cultivate emotional sobriety. I work with adults and adolescents who struggle with emotional disregulation and/or dealing with addiction-be that drugs, alcohol, sex, gaming, smart phones, intensity, pills, marijuana, etc. With over a decade of experience in helping people, you will learn skills to deal with your challenges as well as address the roots of your suffering.
Struggling with emotion disregulation? Anxious or depressed? Self medicating? You will have to create new patterns of behavior and thought to deal with the old destructive behaviors and thoughts. Self-compassion through self awareness. I can help you thrive and cultivate emotional sobriety. I work with adults and adolescents who struggle with emotional disregulation and/or dealing with addiction-be that drugs, alcohol, sex, gaming, smart phones, intensity, pills, marijuana, etc. With over a decade of experience in helping people, you will learn skills to deal with your challenges as well as address the roots of your suffering.
(510) 491-9284 View (510) 491-9284
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.