Photo of Diana Cheng, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Diana Cheng
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803  (Online Only)
TELEHEALTH, ACCEPTS MEDICARE. Are you struggling or feeling overwhelmed with grief, depression, anxiety, managing your emotions, aging issues, transitions, or another challenge? Therapy is a journey to develop a deeper understanding of oneself. I can assist you in finding solutions and acceptance to the issues and stressors that cause you pain and suffering. I incorporate a strength-based, solution focused, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindful approach, which are effective in helping individuals gain insight and develop healthy coping skills to reduce symptoms.
TELEHEALTH, ACCEPTS MEDICARE. Are you struggling or feeling overwhelmed with grief, depression, anxiety, managing your emotions, aging issues, transitions, or another challenge? Therapy is a journey to develop a deeper understanding of oneself. I can assist you in finding solutions and acceptance to the issues and stressors that cause you pain and suffering. I incorporate a strength-based, solution focused, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindful approach, which are effective in helping individuals gain insight and develop healthy coping skills to reduce symptoms.
(562) 524-1189 View (562) 524-1189
Photo of Susan A Pollard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Susan A Pollard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
I have extensive knowledge and experience with helping individuals with substance abuse, grief and loss, and trauma-related issues.
I honor compassion and vulnerability in the counseling arena and provide a safe environment for individuals to share their stories of pain, trauma and grief. Let me help guide you on a journey to find healing, comfort and insight into anything that is holding you back from living in the moment to your fullest potential. I will help you examine the roadblocks to your recovery and share strength for any type of pain, trauma or grief that presents itself in your life.
I have extensive knowledge and experience with helping individuals with substance abuse, grief and loss, and trauma-related issues.
I honor compassion and vulnerability in the counseling arena and provide a safe environment for individuals to share their stories of pain, trauma and grief. Let me help guide you on a journey to find healing, comfort and insight into anything that is holding you back from living in the moment to your fullest potential. I will help you examine the roadblocks to your recovery and share strength for any type of pain, trauma or grief that presents itself in your life.
(562) 262-5528 View (562) 262-5528
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 Pamela Rice, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Pamela Rice
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
The clients I typically work with include depression, anxiety disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress disorder (PTSD), Abuse, grief/loss issues, and couples.
My name is Pam Rice, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) located in Los Angeles, California but via telehealth I can work with clients statewide. As the former program director of a clinical psychiatric unit, I've worked with a variety of mental health issues. I specialize in Christian Therapy and the application of Biblical principles with appropriate psychological interventions. Incorporating a psycho/social/ spiritual integration addresses the whole client. I have an eclectic approach to therapy and utilize the therapeutic modality that fits best with the individual's needs.
The clients I typically work with include depression, anxiety disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress disorder (PTSD), Abuse, grief/loss issues, and couples.
My name is Pam Rice, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) located in Los Angeles, California but via telehealth I can work with clients statewide. As the former program director of a clinical psychiatric unit, I've worked with a variety of mental health issues. I specialize in Christian Therapy and the application of Biblical principles with appropriate psychological interventions. Incorporating a psycho/social/ spiritual integration addresses the whole client. I have an eclectic approach to therapy and utilize the therapeutic modality that fits best with the individual's needs.
(562) 662-5695 View (562) 662-5695
Photo of Tatiana Itskowitz, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Tatiana Itskowitz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90814
I specialize in working with grief and loss as well as working with immigrant and first-generation individuals.
I am a therapist that brings compassion, curiosity, and connection to the forefront of our work together. As your therapist, I believe providing a supportive, empathetic environment is key in creating a space where you can gain insight, access your inner strength, and move forward with your healing. During the process, we may look at your past to see what beliefs still serve you and which do not, identify emotions and process them, and focus on navigating and developing your connections to others and self.
I specialize in working with grief and loss as well as working with immigrant and first-generation individuals.
I am a therapist that brings compassion, curiosity, and connection to the forefront of our work together. As your therapist, I believe providing a supportive, empathetic environment is key in creating a space where you can gain insight, access your inner strength, and move forward with your healing. During the process, we may look at your past to see what beliefs still serve you and which do not, identify emotions and process them, and focus on navigating and developing your connections to others and self.
(562) 620-8577 View (562) 620-8577
Photo of Lori M Downing, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Lori M Downing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
My specialty is grief recovery.
Are life’s struggles causing you to feel overwhelmed, confused, distressed, dissatisfied, or alone? I can help you find hope and healing, and a way forward. I truly believe the connection between therapist and client is essential to successful therapy and connecting with my clients - is my greatest asset. I do this by providing a caring, non-judgmental, supportive presence and a listening ear. In this safe place, I come alongside adult individuals dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Co-dependency, Elder and Caregiving Issues, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Faith Issues and help them move forward.
My specialty is grief recovery.
Are life’s struggles causing you to feel overwhelmed, confused, distressed, dissatisfied, or alone? I can help you find hope and healing, and a way forward. I truly believe the connection between therapist and client is essential to successful therapy and connecting with my clients - is my greatest asset. I do this by providing a caring, non-judgmental, supportive presence and a listening ear. In this safe place, I come alongside adult individuals dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Co-dependency, Elder and Caregiving Issues, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Faith Issues and help them move forward.
(657) 255-8172 View (657) 255-8172
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 Veronica Gomez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Veronica Gomez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
My name is Veronica Gomez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with adults (18+) struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem that may stem from grief and loss, life transitions, and more. I provide a safe and positive space for the patient's to feel empowered to be their authentic self. I specialize in working with adults by incorporating various treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal Therapy to guide patients find their strengths, community, and self.
My name is Veronica Gomez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with adults (18+) struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem that may stem from grief and loss, life transitions, and more. I provide a safe and positive space for the patient's to feel empowered to be their authentic self. I specialize in working with adults by incorporating various treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal Therapy to guide patients find their strengths, community, and self.
(657) 837-3875 View (657) 837-3875
Photo of Amy Lynn Peer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Amy Lynn Peer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I specialize in loss and grief, including: the death of a loved one or pet, childhood losses - parental neglect/abuse, divorce/separation, estrangement, parental alienation, and job loss.
I work with you to uncover those self-defeating beliefs and behaviors that can make life problematic. Working together, my intention is to help you gain insight into yourself and to encourage change that moves you forward toward fulfilling your goals and dreams. Clients come to me with anxiety, anger issues, depression, marital issues including infidelity, family conflicts, grief and loss, co-dependency, Adult Child of Alcoholics/Addicts issues, and problems with substance use. Furthermore, I work with young women in their 20's and 30's trying to navigate through life transitions, relationship and career issues.
I specialize in loss and grief, including: the death of a loved one or pet, childhood losses - parental neglect/abuse, divorce/separation, estrangement, parental alienation, and job loss.
I work with you to uncover those self-defeating beliefs and behaviors that can make life problematic. Working together, my intention is to help you gain insight into yourself and to encourage change that moves you forward toward fulfilling your goals and dreams. Clients come to me with anxiety, anger issues, depression, marital issues including infidelity, family conflicts, grief and loss, co-dependency, Adult Child of Alcoholics/Addicts issues, and problems with substance use. Furthermore, I work with young women in their 20's and 30's trying to navigate through life transitions, relationship and career issues.
(562) 418-5036 View (562) 418-5036
Photo of Terra Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Terra Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
I also specialize in working with individuals of any age who have experienced a significant loss in their life.
Hi, I'm Terra. I am a psychotherapist located in Los Alamitos, CA. I have over 15 years of experience working with children, parents and families of various backgrounds. Many clients have partnered with me to address concerns about family life and all that it entails. I know that finding a therapist can be hard, and I offer a free 15 min phone consultation so that you can ask me questions and decide whether or not I would be a good fit. We will work collaboratively to address your concerns and to meet your goals. I am dedicated to creating a safe place for you and your family to heal and grow, and look forward to hearing from you.
I also specialize in working with individuals of any age who have experienced a significant loss in their life.
Hi, I'm Terra. I am a psychotherapist located in Los Alamitos, CA. I have over 15 years of experience working with children, parents and families of various backgrounds. Many clients have partnered with me to address concerns about family life and all that it entails. I know that finding a therapist can be hard, and I offer a free 15 min phone consultation so that you can ask me questions and decide whether or not I would be a good fit. We will work collaboratively to address your concerns and to meet your goals. I am dedicated to creating a safe place for you and your family to heal and grow, and look forward to hearing from you.
(916) 589-6152 View (916) 589-6152
Photo of Mary M Read, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Mary M Read
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
I specialize in the "big questions" that affect our whole lives -- who am I? What can I hope for? What is a good life? How do I get there from here? Whether the issue is identity, grief & loss, substance misuse, depression, anxiety, aging, surviving trauma, midlife adjustments or having more fulfilling relationships, I work with clients emphasizing their choice and responsiblity, reframing areas where they may feel stuck, ultimately accessing more freedom and empowerment. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups, and see children as young as 10 years old. I'll also work with you to get insurance reimbursement.
I specialize in the "big questions" that affect our whole lives -- who am I? What can I hope for? What is a good life? How do I get there from here? Whether the issue is identity, grief & loss, substance misuse, depression, anxiety, aging, surviving trauma, midlife adjustments or having more fulfilling relationships, I work with clients emphasizing their choice and responsiblity, reframing areas where they may feel stuck, ultimately accessing more freedom and empowerment. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups, and see children as young as 10 years old. I'll also work with you to get insurance reimbursement.
(562) 606-1566 View (562) 606-1566
Photo of Laura Bloomberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Laura Bloomberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
Sometimes, life can be a bit daunting. Between big life decisions, tragedies, and even days when nothing seems to go right, it's easy to get down, anxious, and feel overwhelmed. I work with adults and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, life's transitions, or need a space of their own to share openly free from bias or judgement.
Sometimes, life can be a bit daunting. Between big life decisions, tragedies, and even days when nothing seems to go right, it's easy to get down, anxious, and feel overwhelmed. I work with adults and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, life's transitions, or need a space of their own to share openly free from bias or judgement.
(424) 955-4709 View (424) 955-4709
Photo of Alfredo M. Gonzalez/Revive AMG Family Therapy Corp, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Alfredo M. Gonzalez/Revive AMG Family Therapy Corp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90840  (Online Only)
“Telehealth Provider” Taking steps to engage in individual or couples therapy can invoke a multitude of emotions. Identifying a therapist right for you is as important as the journey you are seeking to embark on. Telehealth Therapy provides the same level of treatment and care as you’d otherwise receive in-person within your private space and without the need to travel to your therapist. In this challenging time, I’m here to provide the emotional, compassionate support you need. Licensed for over 23-years as a bilingual (Eng/Spa) Marriage Family Therapist, I have specialized in working in the treatment of infidelity, grief, loss,
“Telehealth Provider” Taking steps to engage in individual or couples therapy can invoke a multitude of emotions. Identifying a therapist right for you is as important as the journey you are seeking to embark on. Telehealth Therapy provides the same level of treatment and care as you’d otherwise receive in-person within your private space and without the need to travel to your therapist. In this challenging time, I’m here to provide the emotional, compassionate support you need. Licensed for over 23-years as a bilingual (Eng/Spa) Marriage Family Therapist, I have specialized in working in the treatment of infidelity, grief, loss,
(747) 302-4276 View (747) 302-4276
Photo of Grace Oakes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Grace Oakes
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, identity or relationship issues, I can help you get to the heart of the issue and move past the places where you feel stuck. You have strength and resources within yourself that you may not fully recognize. Together we can tap into those to support your healing and growth.
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, identity or relationship issues, I can help you get to the heart of the issue and move past the places where you feel stuck. You have strength and resources within yourself that you may not fully recognize. Together we can tap into those to support your healing and growth.
(657) 837-5631 View (657) 837-5631
Photo of Janelle Bonura, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Janelle Bonura
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
Are you tired of feeling stuck, lost, confused? Are you seeking more harmony in all areas of your life? Are you ready to feel empowered, excited, & energized about life? My passion is to lift you up, empower you, motivate you, & to get you back on track with feeling good again. I love to help adolescents, teens and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and adjustment to life events. I support my clients in developing tools and skills to better manage the stressors they are facing and in building their self-confidence to handle the ups and downs life will inevitably bring.
Are you tired of feeling stuck, lost, confused? Are you seeking more harmony in all areas of your life? Are you ready to feel empowered, excited, & energized about life? My passion is to lift you up, empower you, motivate you, & to get you back on track with feeling good again. I love to help adolescents, teens and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and adjustment to life events. I support my clients in developing tools and skills to better manage the stressors they are facing and in building their self-confidence to handle the ups and downs life will inevitably bring.
(657) 385-8400 View (657) 385-8400
Photo of Erin Steele, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Erin Steele
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815  (Online Only)
Hey there. I’m Erin, and I’m glad you’re here. I offer online therapy sessions to adults and couples in California. To begin with, I’m wondering if you’re feeling stuck in life? Fearful of making any changes? Not sure what’s happening in the world and where you fit in? Experiencing job stress? Or grief from a significant loss? Relationship challenges or a rupture? As a result, anxiety and depression might be creeping into your experience and exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness, hopelessness, and overwhelm. I get it. Heads up, I do not take insurance, but I can provide a superbill for possible reimbursement under your insurance plan.
Hey there. I’m Erin, and I’m glad you’re here. I offer online therapy sessions to adults and couples in California. To begin with, I’m wondering if you’re feeling stuck in life? Fearful of making any changes? Not sure what’s happening in the world and where you fit in? Experiencing job stress? Or grief from a significant loss? Relationship challenges or a rupture? As a result, anxiety and depression might be creeping into your experience and exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness, hopelessness, and overwhelm. I get it. Heads up, I do not take insurance, but I can provide a superbill for possible reimbursement under your insurance plan.
(714) 706-3429 View (714) 706-3429
Photo of Annie Hamamchian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Annie Hamamchian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
With 16 + years of clinical experience, I specialize in evidence-based treatments for a wide range of conditions such as depression, anxiety, historical and/recent trauma, difficult life transitions, grief & loss, relationship issues, interpersonal partner abuse, perinatal mental health, adverse childhood experiences, and family conflict. I have found that much of my passion rests in the treatment of helping adults discover and honor their truth - integrating their authentic self in various areas of their life. I strive to create a safe space by establishing mutual respect, being present, and honoring your individuality.
With 16 + years of clinical experience, I specialize in evidence-based treatments for a wide range of conditions such as depression, anxiety, historical and/recent trauma, difficult life transitions, grief & loss, relationship issues, interpersonal partner abuse, perinatal mental health, adverse childhood experiences, and family conflict. I have found that much of my passion rests in the treatment of helping adults discover and honor their truth - integrating their authentic self in various areas of their life. I strive to create a safe space by establishing mutual respect, being present, and honoring your individuality.
(657) 300-5538 View (657) 300-5538
Photo of Sandy L. Kaufmann, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Sandy L. Kaufmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAS
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, and specialize in the field of addiction. Over 35 continuous years working with drug, alcohol, sex, and love addiction. Trained in Emotional Transformation Therapy, "ETT" (ETT Addiction Certified) my clients receive rapid removal of symptoms and addictive cravings in many cases. With this exciting new cutting edge therapy, people are removing distressing symptoms that they have unsuccessfully attempted to remove for many years, in only minutes to a few sessions. I also use Gestalt Therapy for healing and teach my clients tools to use at home. I am also trained in EMDR since the early 90's.
Treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, and specialize in the field of addiction. Over 35 continuous years working with drug, alcohol, sex, and love addiction. Trained in Emotional Transformation Therapy, "ETT" (ETT Addiction Certified) my clients receive rapid removal of symptoms and addictive cravings in many cases. With this exciting new cutting edge therapy, people are removing distressing symptoms that they have unsuccessfully attempted to remove for many years, in only minutes to a few sessions. I also use Gestalt Therapy for healing and teach my clients tools to use at home. I am also trained in EMDR since the early 90's.
(562) 669-4595 View (562) 669-4595
Photo of Laurel Lass, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Laurel Lass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
I use GIM to address women's issues, parenting, codependency, grief and loss, and women in recovery.
I am excited about clients who want to enrich both their inner and outer lives. You may find yourself at times confused, angry, depressed, or anxious, when what you want is greater clarity, more joy and happiness, and greater peace of mind both in relationship to self and others. I use Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) in my work with clients to tap into their own deep knowing and healing nature, which sometimes gets buried deep within. With music and imagery, a gentle recovery of self in initiated and stimulated. I love working with female adolescents, young college students, parents, and women of all ages.
I use GIM to address women's issues, parenting, codependency, grief and loss, and women in recovery.
I am excited about clients who want to enrich both their inner and outer lives. You may find yourself at times confused, angry, depressed, or anxious, when what you want is greater clarity, more joy and happiness, and greater peace of mind both in relationship to self and others. I use Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) in my work with clients to tap into their own deep knowing and healing nature, which sometimes gets buried deep within. With music and imagery, a gentle recovery of self in initiated and stimulated. I love working with female adolescents, young college students, parents, and women of all ages.
(949) 556-9846 View (949) 556-9846
Photo of 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
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.