Photo of Ilana S Wasserman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Ilana S Wasserman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LEP, CMT, VMP
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
Being a therapist not only involves the training we are provided nor the previous clients with whom we have worked with. In my opinion, it involves the humility to allow one's client to feel safe enough to share the most vulnerable parts of their experiences in order for both of us to feel connected and moving in the same direction. My style of treatment follows my beliefs above. While we take our time bonding, I will be working to put the pieces together that you may be unable to see. Once we have a pattern established, we will go at your speed, perhaps with a light nudge from me, in order to discover the origins of your issues.
Being a therapist not only involves the training we are provided nor the previous clients with whom we have worked with. In my opinion, it involves the humility to allow one's client to feel safe enough to share the most vulnerable parts of their experiences in order for both of us to feel connected and moving in the same direction. My style of treatment follows my beliefs above. While we take our time bonding, I will be working to put the pieces together that you may be unable to see. Once we have a pattern established, we will go at your speed, perhaps with a light nudge from me, in order to discover the origins of your issues.
(949) 328-5710 View (949) 328-5710
Photo of Insightful Matters Family Counseling Professionals, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Insightful Matters Family Counseling Professionals
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814  (Online Only)
Cannot find someone who takes your insurance? Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back or there being a schedule conflict? Insightful Matters may be the solution for you. Here, you call one number and you are taken care of. You have access to using your insurance if you wish, a full range of therapists to choose from, days & times, as well as specialties. You can check out our individual profiles here on psychology today and on our website at www.insightfulmatters.com.
Cannot find someone who takes your insurance? Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back or there being a schedule conflict? Insightful Matters may be the solution for you. Here, you call one number and you are taken care of. You have access to using your insurance if you wish, a full range of therapists to choose from, days & times, as well as specialties. You can check out our individual profiles here on psychology today and on our website at www.insightfulmatters.com.
(714) 654-1570 View (714) 654-1570
Photo of Icinda Siqueira-Darwin, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Icinda Siqueira-Darwin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
If you are near the Southern area of Los Angeles County, you may want to consider psychotherapy or counseling in Long Beach. I work evening hours, as well as day time, and have experience with most mental health needs. I work in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have extensive experience with problems in living using Evidence Based Therapy models and Mindfulness with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, as well as major mental illness including schizophrenia, , and other thought disorders. I work with family problems , including sexual dysfunction. Performing psychological assessments are offered when necessary to set new goals.
If you are near the Southern area of Los Angeles County, you may want to consider psychotherapy or counseling in Long Beach. I work evening hours, as well as day time, and have experience with most mental health needs. I work in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have extensive experience with problems in living using Evidence Based Therapy models and Mindfulness with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, as well as major mental illness including schizophrenia, , and other thought disorders. I work with family problems , including sexual dysfunction. Performing psychological assessments are offered when necessary to set new goals.
(562) 526-0592 View (562) 526-0592
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(949) 755-8095 View (949) 755-8095
Photo of Terence Lau, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Terence Lau
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
A warm welcome to my page. I recognize the courage you are showing by exploring options for support. I am interested in the journey that has taken you to this moment, and I will provide a nonjudgmental and collaborative space to explore your story, your feelings, and your hopes for the future. I believe that we are all vulnerable to finding ourselves "stuck" in patterns that don't serve us well. I also believe in every person's ability to lead a fulfilling life and to maintain relationships that are meaningful, safe, and rewarding.
A warm welcome to my page. I recognize the courage you are showing by exploring options for support. I am interested in the journey that has taken you to this moment, and I will provide a nonjudgmental and collaborative space to explore your story, your feelings, and your hopes for the future. I believe that we are all vulnerable to finding ourselves "stuck" in patterns that don't serve us well. I also believe in every person's ability to lead a fulfilling life and to maintain relationships that are meaningful, safe, and rewarding.
(562) 376-5183 View (562) 376-5183
Photo of Jennifer C Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Jennifer C Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACL, LMFT, C-IAYT, RYT 500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My general frame work is that you cannot separate the body from the mind nor can you separate a person from their life time of experiences, therefore working with all of these systems is a highly effective way to improve happiness, decrease anxiety and stress, and increase coping skills to manage life with more ease and improved relationships. Now offering emergency Intensive Couples Counseling! I work well with individuals and couples who are seeking to learn more holistic ways to address their emotional and relational challenges whether they be family of origin issues, trauma, chronic illness, anxiety, or depression.
My general frame work is that you cannot separate the body from the mind nor can you separate a person from their life time of experiences, therefore working with all of these systems is a highly effective way to improve happiness, decrease anxiety and stress, and increase coping skills to manage life with more ease and improved relationships. Now offering emergency Intensive Couples Counseling! I work well with individuals and couples who are seeking to learn more holistic ways to address their emotional and relational challenges whether they be family of origin issues, trauma, chronic illness, anxiety, or depression.
(562) 454-0709 View (562) 454-0709
Photo of Pacific Therapy Group, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Pacific Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Pacific Pain & Wellness Group treats mental health and pain conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Our mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, we construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Pacific Pain & Wellness Group treats mental health and pain conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Our mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, we construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
(310) 868-2264 View (310) 868-2264

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Counseling Adults, Children & Couples, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Counseling Adults, Children & Couples
Psychologist, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
(310) 421-2863 View (310) 421-2863
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(323) 417-9393 View (323) 417-9393
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(310) 742-9232 View (310) 742-9232
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(657) 214-3099 View (657) 214-3099
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(909) 318-1937 View (909) 318-1937
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 Kristin Whelan, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Kristin Whelan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Whelan is an experienced Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about establishing a strong alliance with her patients and providing excellence in care. She provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. Whelan specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders, chronic pain, sleep/eating disorders, substance use, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. She provides individualized, evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT),
Dr. Whelan is an experienced Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about establishing a strong alliance with her patients and providing excellence in care. She provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. Whelan specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders, chronic pain, sleep/eating disorders, substance use, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. She provides individualized, evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT),
(619) 738-2306 View (619) 738-2306
Photo of Open Mind Health , Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Open Mind Health
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, isolation, relationship/family issues? At Open Mind Health, we get to the “root cause” of what’s actually leading to your emotional challenges, while treating the resulting issues and developing lasting solutions to help you feel optimistic and hopeful. With ease-of-access to our advanced telehealth platform or in-person visits, our expert psychiatrists and therapists offer highly individualized care wherever you are and whenever you need it. Our therapists and life coaches are compassionate and forward-thinkers. Call us today at 855-550-6063 to get started!
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, isolation, relationship/family issues? At Open Mind Health, we get to the “root cause” of what’s actually leading to your emotional challenges, while treating the resulting issues and developing lasting solutions to help you feel optimistic and hopeful. With ease-of-access to our advanced telehealth platform or in-person visits, our expert psychiatrists and therapists offer highly individualized care wherever you are and whenever you need it. Our therapists and life coaches are compassionate and forward-thinkers. Call us today at 855-550-6063 to get started!
(619) 279-5464 View (619) 279-5464
Photo of Ariel Schoolsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Ariel Schoolsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049
My clinical work spans seventeen years, covering issues including grief and loss, trauma, infertility, creative blocks, divorce, childhood abuse, anxiety and depression, marital conflict and parenting challenges.
Our lives are constructed from many roles and stories. We, as human beings, are the teller of those tales. Is your narrative one, as Plato stated, flowing from "three sources: desire, emotion, and knowledge?" Is it rich in self-care, dignity, and compassion? Or, are the stories and thoughts you carry heartless, punitive, or corrosive?
My clinical work spans seventeen years, covering issues including grief and loss, trauma, infertility, creative blocks, divorce, childhood abuse, anxiety and depression, marital conflict and parenting challenges.
Our lives are constructed from many roles and stories. We, as human beings, are the teller of those tales. Is your narrative one, as Plato stated, flowing from "three sources: desire, emotion, and knowledge?" Is it rich in self-care, dignity, and compassion? Or, are the stories and thoughts you carry heartless, punitive, or corrosive?
(424) 332-5933 View (424) 332-5933
Photo of Diagnostic & Counseling Center, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Diagnostic & Counseling Center
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step" -Lao Tzu. During this unprecedented time of uncertainty, change, & loss, many of us are struggling in different ways. Acknowledging your challenges & seeking help are the first steps in healing. At Diagnostic & Counseling Center, we have a diverse group of clinicians to offer support to individuals, couples, & families. We believe that each person possesses special strengths, & we strive to build upon these to facilitate growth. During therapy, we encourage clients to engage in self-exploration & provide tools to help individuals lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step" -Lao Tzu. During this unprecedented time of uncertainty, change, & loss, many of us are struggling in different ways. Acknowledging your challenges & seeking help are the first steps in healing. At Diagnostic & Counseling Center, we have a diverse group of clinicians to offer support to individuals, couples, & families. We believe that each person possesses special strengths, & we strive to build upon these to facilitate growth. During therapy, we encourage clients to engage in self-exploration & provide tools to help individuals lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
(747) 285-7570 View (747) 285-7570
Photo of David Ibrahim, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
Aren’t you tired of anxiety, loss, suffering or dealing with emotional challenges? From one to several sessions you can get rapid relief from your symptoms.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Aren’t you tired of anxiety, loss, suffering or dealing with emotional challenges? From one to several sessions you can get rapid relief from your symptoms.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
(323) 798-9774 View (323) 798-9774
Photo of Susan Davies, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Susan Davies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Loss is believed to be the underlying issue that propels many people into psychotherapy.
I offer a warm, caring and understanding environment so that insight, self-esteem and personal growth can develop. We work together so that you can become your BEST self. To quote Socrates: "the unexamined life is not worth living". A glimpse into our past, helps us understand the present and creates the foundation for a better future. Accessing and understanding our feelings starts the process of knowing ourselves and others, allowing us to take personal responsibility and making healthier choices, that ultimately leads to positive, life-long changes.
Loss is believed to be the underlying issue that propels many people into psychotherapy.
I offer a warm, caring and understanding environment so that insight, self-esteem and personal growth can develop. We work together so that you can become your BEST self. To quote Socrates: "the unexamined life is not worth living". A glimpse into our past, helps us understand the present and creates the foundation for a better future. Accessing and understanding our feelings starts the process of knowing ourselves and others, allowing us to take personal responsibility and making healthier choices, that ultimately leads to positive, life-long changes.
(424) 294-8844 View (424) 294-8844
Photo of Stephanie Hill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Stephanie Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
I specialize working with individuals, geriatrics and families dealing with depression, substance abuse, child abuse, grief, medical issues, death and dying, adoption, marital issues and LGBT issues.
I provide in home , telehealth or office sessions for adults, older adults, children, and adolescents. I have 20 years of experience helping others change their lives.
I specialize working with individuals, geriatrics and families dealing with depression, substance abuse, child abuse, grief, medical issues, death and dying, adoption, marital issues and LGBT issues.
I provide in home , telehealth or office sessions for adults, older adults, children, and adolescents. I have 20 years of experience helping others change their lives.
(949) 656-4359 View (949) 656-4359

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.