Photo of Maria Modesta Carmichael, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Maria Modesta Carmichael
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
Life is full of challenges that overwhelm us. It stops us in our tracks and we think "how did I get here?" Whether it is grief, fear, lack of motivation, excessive worrying, indecisiveness, poor choices, trauma, addiction, or relationship problems: therapy is a tool to help, if you are open and reach out. This is when you need someone who is genuine, safe, non-judgmental, caring, supportive, and redirects gently to help you decide the next steps in YOUR journey. In therapy, we will focus on healing, process past wounds, identify triggers, create healthy boundaries, explore solutions, and find the path that is right for you.
Life is full of challenges that overwhelm us. It stops us in our tracks and we think "how did I get here?" Whether it is grief, fear, lack of motivation, excessive worrying, indecisiveness, poor choices, trauma, addiction, or relationship problems: therapy is a tool to help, if you are open and reach out. This is when you need someone who is genuine, safe, non-judgmental, caring, supportive, and redirects gently to help you decide the next steps in YOUR journey. In therapy, we will focus on healing, process past wounds, identify triggers, create healthy boundaries, explore solutions, and find the path that is right for you.
(562) 362-3351 View (562) 362-3351
Photo of Yasuko Mikajiri, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Yasuko Mikajiri
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90806  (Online Only)
My name is Yasuko (pronounced "Yasco") Mikajiri (三ヶ尻 靖子), and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Long Beach, California. Via Telehealth, I work with adults (18 years old and over) throughout California, specializing in Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief & Loss, Substance Abuse, Communication Skills, Transitional Work, Generational/Cultural Gap Issues for Immigrants, and Purpose in Life, etc. My approach to therapy is a combination of some of the therapy techniques tailored to your individual needs. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you transform the patterns of negative thinking into positive ones.
My name is Yasuko (pronounced "Yasco") Mikajiri (三ヶ尻 靖子), and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Long Beach, California. Via Telehealth, I work with adults (18 years old and over) throughout California, specializing in Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief & Loss, Substance Abuse, Communication Skills, Transitional Work, Generational/Cultural Gap Issues for Immigrants, and Purpose in Life, etc. My approach to therapy is a combination of some of the therapy techniques tailored to your individual needs. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you transform the patterns of negative thinking into positive ones.
(442) 219-7341 View (442) 219-7341
Photo of Wendy Mullen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Wendy Mullen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90813
Welcome! My name is Wendy Mullen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Professional Coach (CPC), and a leading Southern California therapist servicing the greater Los Angeles area for over 30 years. I work with adults and specialize in substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, loss, and serious mental illness. I am deeply committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where you can find solace and embark on your healing journey.
Welcome! My name is Wendy Mullen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Professional Coach (CPC), and a leading Southern California therapist servicing the greater Los Angeles area for over 30 years. I work with adults and specialize in substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, loss, and serious mental illness. I am deeply committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where you can find solace and embark on your healing journey.
(562) 784-5290 View (562) 784-5290
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 Maryam Ashraf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Maryam Ashraf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
(562) 662-7257 View (562) 662-7257
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(833) 918-2676 View (833) 918-2676
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 Liana Huang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Liana Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I have had the privilege to work with individuals with generational trauma, grief, ADHD, and relational/familial issues.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
I have had the privilege to work with individuals with generational trauma, grief, ADHD, and relational/familial issues.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
(562) 268-1452 View (562) 268-1452
Photo of Justine Gordon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
(562) 294-4242 View (562) 294-4242
Photo of Gaea Ray, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Gaea Ray
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90814  (Online Only)
Welcome to a nurturing space where healing begins. I offer a sanctuary for children, teens, and adults to explore their emotions through both conversation and the expressive language of art. Together, we embark on a journey to challenge and transform unhealthy patterns by delving into their origins. My practice specializes in nurturing the healing process for concerns like anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, and fostering healthy relationships. Whether you're feeling stuck, unheard, or adrift, I personalize my approach to your distinct needs, guiding you toward healing, hope, and reconnection.
Welcome to a nurturing space where healing begins. I offer a sanctuary for children, teens, and adults to explore their emotions through both conversation and the expressive language of art. Together, we embark on a journey to challenge and transform unhealthy patterns by delving into their origins. My practice specializes in nurturing the healing process for concerns like anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, and fostering healthy relationships. Whether you're feeling stuck, unheard, or adrift, I personalize my approach to your distinct needs, guiding you toward healing, hope, and reconnection.
(562) 784-7106 View (562) 784-7106
Photo of Janelle De Veyra, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Janelle De Veyra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
In addition, I specialize in intimacy concerns, grief/abandonment, identity issues, and life transitions.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
In addition, I specialize in intimacy concerns, grief/abandonment, identity issues, and life transitions.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
(562) 362-4373 View (562) 362-4373
Photo of Ganna Skrypnyk, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Ganna Skrypnyk
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
With years of experience, I've worked with adolescents, adults, and couples dealing with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationship challenges, personality and mood disorders, self-esteem issues, family conflicts, identity concerns, grief, and loss.
My goal is to create a secure space where you can delve into your challenges, gain deeper understanding, and find clarity. Through a blend of compassion and straightforwardness, I aspire for you to become increasingly confident in confronting life's hurdles. Everyone faces difficulties at various points in life, whether it's navigating complex relationships, coping with work-related stress, or managing significant life changes. You might feel stuck, uncertain, overwhelmed, or isolated during these times. Remember, you don't have to face these challenges alone.
With years of experience, I've worked with adolescents, adults, and couples dealing with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationship challenges, personality and mood disorders, self-esteem issues, family conflicts, identity concerns, grief, and loss.
My goal is to create a secure space where you can delve into your challenges, gain deeper understanding, and find clarity. Through a blend of compassion and straightforwardness, I aspire for you to become increasingly confident in confronting life's hurdles. Everyone faces difficulties at various points in life, whether it's navigating complex relationships, coping with work-related stress, or managing significant life changes. You might feel stuck, uncertain, overwhelmed, or isolated during these times. Remember, you don't have to face these challenges alone.
(323) 541-4301 View (323) 541-4301
Photo of Nicole Woolf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Nicole Woolf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755
My specialty is working with those who are experiencing trauma, and grief and loss.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
My specialty is working with those who are experiencing trauma, and grief and loss.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
(310) 504-7306 View (310) 504-7306
Photo of Liliana E. Llamas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Liliana E. Llamas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90805  (Online Only)
Taking the step towards therapy is an act of courage and self-care, and I'm deeply honored to be part of your transformative journey towards personal growth. I am truly passionate about helping you discover inner peace and resilience to create a sense of belonging within yourself. Together, we will navigate the obstacles that may have made you experienced fear, loss, rejection, or feel like you weren't enough. With over fourteen years of experience, my specialization lies in supporting emerging generation and adults facing a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, loss, or life adjustments.
Taking the step towards therapy is an act of courage and self-care, and I'm deeply honored to be part of your transformative journey towards personal growth. I am truly passionate about helping you discover inner peace and resilience to create a sense of belonging within yourself. Together, we will navigate the obstacles that may have made you experienced fear, loss, rejection, or feel like you weren't enough. With over fourteen years of experience, my specialization lies in supporting emerging generation and adults facing a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, loss, or life adjustments.
(714) 426-6959 View (714) 426-6959
Photo of Hailey Perkins, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Hailey Perkins
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
I have experience working with adults, teens, and children managing struggles that come with depression, anxiety, body dysmorphia, grief, adjustment issues, interpersonal concerns, and trauma & ADHD.
Whatever life may be putting you through, I am glad you found your way here. Maybe you feel overwhelmed with anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, poor body image, intense emotions, or a whole list of other struggles that may feel unacceptable. As a client centered therapist, I am overjoyed to welcome all parts of you with open arms, warmth, and kindness. My goal is never to change you, just simply to know you.
I have experience working with adults, teens, and children managing struggles that come with depression, anxiety, body dysmorphia, grief, adjustment issues, interpersonal concerns, and trauma & ADHD.
Whatever life may be putting you through, I am glad you found your way here. Maybe you feel overwhelmed with anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, poor body image, intense emotions, or a whole list of other struggles that may feel unacceptable. As a client centered therapist, I am overjoyed to welcome all parts of you with open arms, warmth, and kindness. My goal is never to change you, just simply to know you.
(949) 749-5106 View (949) 749-5106
Photo of Nicole Logan, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Long Beach, CA
Nicole Logan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
(310) 362-5485 View (310) 362-5485
Photo of Esther Rosales, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Esther Rosales
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, my name is Esther Rosales and I am licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I bring a fresh approach to psychotherapy and invite you to call me for a free consultation. I provide services to teens, families, couples, and adults in the Los Angeles area. We will work together to overcome whatever challenge you may be struggling with. My experience includes working with those navigating challenges in Grief & Loss, Relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, and interpersonal difficulties. Hola, mi nombre es Esther Rosales, ofrezco un enfoque refrescante a la psicoterapia. Llama me para una consulta gratuita.
Hi, my name is Esther Rosales and I am licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I bring a fresh approach to psychotherapy and invite you to call me for a free consultation. I provide services to teens, families, couples, and adults in the Los Angeles area. We will work together to overcome whatever challenge you may be struggling with. My experience includes working with those navigating challenges in Grief & Loss, Relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, and interpersonal difficulties. Hola, mi nombre es Esther Rosales, ofrezco un enfoque refrescante a la psicoterapia. Llama me para una consulta gratuita.
(323) 680-5986 View (323) 680-5986
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 Jalee Carder, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Jalee Carder
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90813
Jalee Carder is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with years of experience in different therapeutic settings. With specialties in Addiction, Grief-Recovery, Domestic Violence, Family Systems, Coupe's Therapy, Trauma, and Acute Psych, Jalee is able to work with a diverse population of clients to better understand themselves and have the knowledge to move forward in a positive direction in their lives. Jalee uses a variety of clinical techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy, Solution Focused, Psychodynamics, and Healthy Communication Skills.
Jalee Carder is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with years of experience in different therapeutic settings. With specialties in Addiction, Grief-Recovery, Domestic Violence, Family Systems, Coupe's Therapy, Trauma, and Acute Psych, Jalee is able to work with a diverse population of clients to better understand themselves and have the knowledge to move forward in a positive direction in their lives. Jalee uses a variety of clinical techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy, Solution Focused, Psychodynamics, and Healthy Communication Skills.
(213) 322-0700 View (213) 322-0700
Photo of NISD Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
NISD Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
Some of the issues that can be discussed in therapy include: depression, anxiety, stress, health conditions, relationships, gender identity, pregnancy and abortion, work challenges, eating issues, body image, parent-child concerns, trauma, grief and loss, major life transitions as well as hopes and aspirations for the future.
NISD Counseling is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide access to affordable individual, couples, family, and group therapy services to clients of diverse abilities, cultures, genders, religions, sexual orientations and documentation statuses. Our clients come from all walks of life, some are new to therapy while many are familiar with therapy but want to try a different approach where their strengths and values will be centered. We provide a confidential space to discuss challenges as well as opportunities. Ask about our 5-session Relational Therapy package for $100 total with our MFT Graduate Student therapists.
Some of the issues that can be discussed in therapy include: depression, anxiety, stress, health conditions, relationships, gender identity, pregnancy and abortion, work challenges, eating issues, body image, parent-child concerns, trauma, grief and loss, major life transitions as well as hopes and aspirations for the future.
NISD Counseling is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide access to affordable individual, couples, family, and group therapy services to clients of diverse abilities, cultures, genders, religions, sexual orientations and documentation statuses. Our clients come from all walks of life, some are new to therapy while many are familiar with therapy but want to try a different approach where their strengths and values will be centered. We provide a confidential space to discuss challenges as well as opportunities. Ask about our 5-session Relational Therapy package for $100 total with our MFT Graduate Student therapists.
(619) 452-3826 View (619) 452-3826
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.