Photo of Kevin J Woolums, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Kevin J Woolums
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PhD Can
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
When deciding to see a therapist, it is important to find a fit that is right for you. This is why my practice aims to provide deep and safe sessions that ignite real insight, exploration, hope and change. You need a safe space, knowledgeable support and a collaborative effort. With over a decade of working in counseling psychology and extensive postgraduate work in depth psychology, dreams, and more, I am confident that our time together can help you discover the infections beneath difficult symptoms, the hidden treasure within our greatest obstacles and desired support at a pace that is right for you.
When deciding to see a therapist, it is important to find a fit that is right for you. This is why my practice aims to provide deep and safe sessions that ignite real insight, exploration, hope and change. You need a safe space, knowledgeable support and a collaborative effort. With over a decade of working in counseling psychology and extensive postgraduate work in depth psychology, dreams, and more, I am confident that our time together can help you discover the infections beneath difficult symptoms, the hidden treasure within our greatest obstacles and desired support at a pace that is right for you.
(916) 571-0197 View (916) 571-0197

Online Therapists

Photo of Christopher Cordry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Christopher Cordry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
I enjoy working with adults, seniors, and older teens, and have experience treating issues including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and substance abuse.
When you're dealing with painful emotions, relationship issues, or other life challenges, every day can feel like a struggle. Finding the right therapist can seem like yet another daunting task. But it can also be the crucial first step toward a happier, more fulfilling, and more meaningful life. I believe in taking the time to get to know you as an individual and to understand your unique story, strengths, and clinical needs, so that together we can help you get past your current challenges and build a life you love living. I specialize in working with clients seeking personal growth and a more meaningful life.
I enjoy working with adults, seniors, and older teens, and have experience treating issues including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and substance abuse.
When you're dealing with painful emotions, relationship issues, or other life challenges, every day can feel like a struggle. Finding the right therapist can seem like yet another daunting task. But it can also be the crucial first step toward a happier, more fulfilling, and more meaningful life. I believe in taking the time to get to know you as an individual and to understand your unique story, strengths, and clinical needs, so that together we can help you get past your current challenges and build a life you love living. I specialize in working with clients seeking personal growth and a more meaningful life.
(442) 200-2343 View (442) 200-2343
Photo of Diane R Gehart, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Diane R Gehart
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Waitlist for new clients
With over 30 years of experience, I provide effective therapy to individuals, couples, adolescents, children, and families, addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, OCD, child and adult trauma, couples issues, divorce, parenting, child/teen concerns, sexuality, work-related issues, life transitions, eating disorders, personality disorders, and grief.
Whether you are looking for a therapist because of recent difficulties or challenges that started years ago, you will find that I offer a rare combination of rigorous training with a down-to-earth style to help you achieve your goals. As an established professor and author in the field, I am well-versed in the latest research to ensure your problems are resolved as efficiently as possible using the most effective methods available. If you have had difficulty connecting with past therapists or are concerned that I might act like therapists in the movies, I believe you will find my style refreshingly more relatable.
With over 30 years of experience, I provide effective therapy to individuals, couples, adolescents, children, and families, addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, OCD, child and adult trauma, couples issues, divorce, parenting, child/teen concerns, sexuality, work-related issues, life transitions, eating disorders, personality disorders, and grief.
Whether you are looking for a therapist because of recent difficulties or challenges that started years ago, you will find that I offer a rare combination of rigorous training with a down-to-earth style to help you achieve your goals. As an established professor and author in the field, I am well-versed in the latest research to ensure your problems are resolved as efficiently as possible using the most effective methods available. If you have had difficulty connecting with past therapists or are concerned that I might act like therapists in the movies, I believe you will find my style refreshingly more relatable.
(805) 367-5822 View (805) 367-5822
Photo of Dr. Lori L Soli, Licensed Professional Counselor in Long Beach, CA
Dr. Lori L Soli
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCC, LPC, ACS, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109
As an LPC(C), life/wellness/ meditation/breathing/grief/ intuition coach, reiki healer, yoga teacher, retreat facilitator, shaman, & oracle reader to name a few, I bring diverse skills to co-curating your counseling (aka healing & wellness) journey! Whatever your struggles, You are not Broken; I will not try to Fix you!.
Hi, I am Lori, and I am so glad You are here! We all have hurts in need of healing. I'm here to help you heal your heart, mind, spirit, and/or body! Whether you seek a more authentic relationship with self or others, or to heal past or present griefs, we can do all that and much more. Talking about your 'stuff' can be scary. I provide a non-judgmental and open-minded approach to support your healing journey. Through a collaborative, reflective process, we will explore your emotions, thoughts, beliefs and lived experiences. New insights, perspectives, and ways of being and doing in this world Are there for you! You just started!
As an LPC(C), life/wellness/ meditation/breathing/grief/ intuition coach, reiki healer, yoga teacher, retreat facilitator, shaman, & oracle reader to name a few, I bring diverse skills to co-curating your counseling (aka healing & wellness) journey! Whatever your struggles, You are not Broken; I will not try to Fix you!.
Hi, I am Lori, and I am so glad You are here! We all have hurts in need of healing. I'm here to help you heal your heart, mind, spirit, and/or body! Whether you seek a more authentic relationship with self or others, or to heal past or present griefs, we can do all that and much more. Talking about your 'stuff' can be scary. I provide a non-judgmental and open-minded approach to support your healing journey. Through a collaborative, reflective process, we will explore your emotions, thoughts, beliefs and lived experiences. New insights, perspectives, and ways of being and doing in this world Are there for you! You just started!
(314) 907-1522 View (314) 907-1522
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 Carmela Floro, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Carmela Floro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90278  (Online Only)
I can help guide you towards improving important relationships in your life: With yourself, family, at work, in love, and with others. If you are experiencing betrayal, doubt, confusion, sadness, anxiety, anger, loss, fear and hurt, we will look at solutions,options, choices, value, expression, attitudes, negative influences, strengths, abilities, and relations affecting your life. We will explore differences in values, perspective, backgrounds, communication styles, and evaluate trust, honesty, respect, expectations and relational patterns. My work is holistic, integrative, and solution-focused (https://www.carmelaflorolmft.com).
I can help guide you towards improving important relationships in your life: With yourself, family, at work, in love, and with others. If you are experiencing betrayal, doubt, confusion, sadness, anxiety, anger, loss, fear and hurt, we will look at solutions,options, choices, value, expression, attitudes, negative influences, strengths, abilities, and relations affecting your life. We will explore differences in values, perspective, backgrounds, communication styles, and evaluate trust, honesty, respect, expectations and relational patterns. My work is holistic, integrative, and solution-focused (https://www.carmelaflorolmft.com).
(818) 850-5521 View (818) 850-5521
Photo of David Ibrahim, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
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) 366-3016 View (323) 366-3016
Photo of Barbara Cox, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Barbara Cox
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Is life feeling like a struggle? Let's work together to help you feel better than you have in a long time. We can work together to clear anxiety, relationship struggles, grief, work stress, uncover your strengths and purpose, enjoy your life again. If you feel stuck, afraid or down, we can work together to get you feeling calm and centered. I have specialties in treating anxiety disorders, as well as work stress and professional burnout. I enjoy working with many types of clients, + therapy to other therapists. Check out my book for women 'The Muse Process: Unleashing the Power of the Feminine'. I look forward to helping you!
Is life feeling like a struggle? Let's work together to help you feel better than you have in a long time. We can work together to clear anxiety, relationship struggles, grief, work stress, uncover your strengths and purpose, enjoy your life again. If you feel stuck, afraid or down, we can work together to get you feeling calm and centered. I have specialties in treating anxiety disorders, as well as work stress and professional burnout. I enjoy working with many types of clients, + therapy to other therapists. Check out my book for women 'The Muse Process: Unleashing the Power of the Feminine'. I look forward to helping you!
(510) 890-3327 View (510) 890-3327
Photo of Robyn Blythe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Robyn Blythe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, nurturing, and empathic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues to relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and addictions. I am trained & certified in EMDR, which helps a person to quickly move through recent and past trauma and successfully overcome symptoms related to PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). We'll work together to help you find a healthy balance between body, mind, and emotions that allow for success in relationships and work, self-empowerment, and to live a life full of hope, meaning, and purpose.
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, nurturing, and empathic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues to relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and addictions. I am trained & certified in EMDR, which helps a person to quickly move through recent and past trauma and successfully overcome symptoms related to PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). We'll work together to help you find a healthy balance between body, mind, and emotions that allow for success in relationships and work, self-empowerment, and to live a life full of hope, meaning, and purpose.
(818) 203-0246 View (818) 203-0246
Photo of Sara Semal, Counselor in Long Beach, CA
Sara Semal
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
I like to be real with people. I find the best way to work with individuals and couples is to be present, ask the right questions, and give honest feedback. Whether you are coming to therapy for personal growth, a relationship or family issue, healing from loss, past trauma, or anything else, I want to explore who you are, how your life experiences have affected you and your relationships, ways in which those experiences keep replaying themselves, and how to get you out of the cycle. My approach is to provide a comfortable and real space to talk, explore and work on feeling better.
I like to be real with people. I find the best way to work with individuals and couples is to be present, ask the right questions, and give honest feedback. Whether you are coming to therapy for personal growth, a relationship or family issue, healing from loss, past trauma, or anything else, I want to explore who you are, how your life experiences have affected you and your relationships, ways in which those experiences keep replaying themselves, and how to get you out of the cycle. My approach is to provide a comfortable and real space to talk, explore and work on feeling better.
(773) 757-5042 View (773) 757-5042
Photo of Melody Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Melody Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-II, TRM-II, BSP, NAT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
For over 25 years, I have eased the suffering of those facing anxiety, depression, trauma, couple, family, work & social relational conflict, impulse control, addictions, spiritual searches, grief & loss, life transitions & career change. I work with individuals, couples & families in West Los Angeles & New York City. I am licensed in CA & NY & Certified in EMDR-II, BrainSpotting-Phase 4 , Trauma Resiliency Training Level 2 and Neuro-Affective Touch. I offer & premarital counseling & wedding services, with a specialty in 12-Step Weddings.. I do not take insurance.
For over 25 years, I have eased the suffering of those facing anxiety, depression, trauma, couple, family, work & social relational conflict, impulse control, addictions, spiritual searches, grief & loss, life transitions & career change. I work with individuals, couples & families in West Los Angeles & New York City. I am licensed in CA & NY & Certified in EMDR-II, BrainSpotting-Phase 4 , Trauma Resiliency Training Level 2 and Neuro-Affective Touch. I offer & premarital counseling & wedding services, with a specialty in 12-Step Weddings.. I do not take insurance.
(310) 627-2345 View (310) 627-2345
Photo of Counseling Services, Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Counseling Services, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD, MFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90230  (Online Only)
At Counseling Services/LA Peace of Mind.com, we guide people to the light and empower themselves to heal. We help people who seek trust and freedom to be expressive, address life challenges, and barriers that interfere with growth and achieving life's goals. Now offering Neurofeedback in 2024
At Counseling Services/LA Peace of Mind.com, we guide people to the light and empower themselves to heal. We help people who seek trust and freedom to be expressive, address life challenges, and barriers that interfere with growth and achieving life's goals. Now offering Neurofeedback in 2024
(424) 353-4257 View (424) 353-4257
Photo of Ricardo Patrick Peña, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Ricardo Patrick Peña
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
My focus is to support individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. By centering the mind-body-being connection, I have a holistic approach with my clients to help create an individualized treatment plan that works best for them. I am dedicated to providing a space that is warm, compassionate and accessible, where you feel safe to explore the ways in which you can build a more fulfilling life.
My focus is to support individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. By centering the mind-body-being connection, I have a holistic approach with my clients to help create an individualized treatment plan that works best for them. I am dedicated to providing a space that is warm, compassionate and accessible, where you feel safe to explore the ways in which you can build a more fulfilling life.
(323) 667-7714 View (323) 667-7714
Photo of Jonathan Flier, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Jonathan Flier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
41 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Are you feeling overwhelmed, powerless and defeated by your current life situation? Are you looking to create a new life filled with confidence, clarity and hope? I can help you. The deciding factor in successful psychotherapy is the quality of the therapist-patient relationship. Together we weave a nurturing, warm, healing connection with heartfelt empathy leaving you feeling strengthened and understood.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, powerless and defeated by your current life situation? Are you looking to create a new life filled with confidence, clarity and hope? I can help you. The deciding factor in successful psychotherapy is the quality of the therapist-patient relationship. Together we weave a nurturing, warm, healing connection with heartfelt empathy leaving you feeling strengthened and understood.
(310) 552-5338 View (310) 552-5338
Photo of Kathy O'Fallon, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Kathy O'Fallon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Waitlist for new clients
I've been in practice for many years, in both medical clinics and private practice settings, so I have treated all kinds of issues. Psychotherapy is a deeply personal and intimate experience, and I value the privilege of being a part of a person's commitment to change. Areas of advanced training include but are not limited to Brainspotting, the quick pulse (by Jo Dunning), codependence and abuse recovery, emotional freedom technique, Matrix Reimprinting, cognitive and psychodynamic psychotherapy, poetry therapy, marital and family therapy, sexual therapy, focused mindfulness, quantum entrainment, and spiritually focused therapy.
I've been in practice for many years, in both medical clinics and private practice settings, so I have treated all kinds of issues. Psychotherapy is a deeply personal and intimate experience, and I value the privilege of being a part of a person's commitment to change. Areas of advanced training include but are not limited to Brainspotting, the quick pulse (by Jo Dunning), codependence and abuse recovery, emotional freedom technique, Matrix Reimprinting, cognitive and psychodynamic psychotherapy, poetry therapy, marital and family therapy, sexual therapy, focused mindfulness, quantum entrainment, and spiritually focused therapy.
(909) 570-1795 View (909) 570-1795
Photo of Robert Jaffe, Ph.D., LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Robert Jaffe, Ph.D., LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
I believe every human has unique struggles and deserves therapy that is tailored to best help them. I work with individuals, couples, and families to treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, and addiction. Since I have a license in Marriage and Family Therapy, I have a perspective that allows me to help patients see their struggles in a way they may not have considered.
I believe every human has unique struggles and deserves therapy that is tailored to best help them. I work with individuals, couples, and families to treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, and addiction. Since I have a license in Marriage and Family Therapy, I have a perspective that allows me to help patients see their struggles in a way they may not have considered.
(818) 906-7079 View (818) 906-7079
Photo of BondFire Project Trauma-Informed Group Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
BondFire Project Trauma-Informed Group Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008  (Online Only)
We work best with military, veterans, first responders and those "raging against the dying of the light" to work with both the individual and their partners relationship in group settings. Being a 12-Year Military Veteran and First Responder we understand how the military community prides itself on its closeness and camaraderie — its strength in numbers. But Veterans transitioning into civilian life after military service may be surprised to find themselves without the system of support that they have come to know and rely on. This thing we do so others may live, love, work and play well. Joe Whitcomb, PsyDc, LMFT AF Veteran
We work best with military, veterans, first responders and those "raging against the dying of the light" to work with both the individual and their partners relationship in group settings. Being a 12-Year Military Veteran and First Responder we understand how the military community prides itself on its closeness and camaraderie — its strength in numbers. But Veterans transitioning into civilian life after military service may be surprised to find themselves without the system of support that they have come to know and rely on. This thing we do so others may live, love, work and play well. Joe Whitcomb, PsyDc, LMFT AF Veteran
(442) 200-0567 View (442) 200-0567
Citrus Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Redlands, CA 92373
Citrus Counseling Services is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that has been providing comprehensive mental health services throughout the Inland Empire since 1978. We have over 50 employees that provide professional, compassionate, evidence-based mental health services to meet the needs in our community.
Citrus Counseling Services is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that has been providing comprehensive mental health services throughout the Inland Empire since 1978. We have over 50 employees that provide professional, compassionate, evidence-based mental health services to meet the needs in our community.
(909) 402-3583 View (909) 402-3583
Photo of Now I See a Person Institute, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Now I See a Person Institute
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
“So often times it happens that we live our lives in chains, and we never even know we have the key” (The Eagles) “No one ever talked like this with me before” “They didn't force” “They listen and never force you, and they do not make assumptions about you” “You are unique and do not compare yourself to other people’s journey’s…do not do permanent decisions to things that will change in time” These are commentaries gained from people who experienced collaborative-dialogic ways of helping in the Now I See A Person Institute. Come hear words of hope and remedy, where dignity, dialogue and freedom arise within therapy, coaching...
“So often times it happens that we live our lives in chains, and we never even know we have the key” (The Eagles) “No one ever talked like this with me before” “They didn't force” “They listen and never force you, and they do not make assumptions about you” “You are unique and do not compare yourself to other people’s journey’s…do not do permanent decisions to things that will change in time” These are commentaries gained from people who experienced collaborative-dialogic ways of helping in the Now I See A Person Institute. Come hear words of hope and remedy, where dignity, dialogue and freedom arise within therapy, coaching...
(626) 624-4272 View (626) 624-4272
Photo of Life Source Affordable Counseling Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Life Source Affordable Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92507
If you have been looking for professional help with problems related to your marriage, family or stress in your life, but have not been able to afford the cost of therapy...we can help! You can get the help you need now at an extremely affordable rate by making an appointment with one of our qualified Associates or Graduate student Trainees in Marriage & Family Therapy. Life Source Training Institute in Riverside, Calif., is a 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to providing affordable counseling and family education to the community.
If you have been looking for professional help with problems related to your marriage, family or stress in your life, but have not been able to afford the cost of therapy...we can help! You can get the help you need now at an extremely affordable rate by making an appointment with one of our qualified Associates or Graduate student Trainees in Marriage & Family Therapy. Life Source Training Institute in Riverside, Calif., is a 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to providing affordable counseling and family education to the community.
(951) 977-3928 View (951) 977-3928
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.