Photo of Christiane Swartz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Christiane Swartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
I'm Christiane Swartz, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing telehealth counseling from the rural North Bay area of California. Are you feeling stuck or hopeless, and powerless to make change? It can be common to feel that way when facing grief, old and new trauma, loss, illness, depression, burnout, or other situations that get in the way of feeling whole. Whatever suffering brings you here, you have found a safe space to move toward healing.
I'm Christiane Swartz, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing telehealth counseling from the rural North Bay area of California. Are you feeling stuck or hopeless, and powerless to make change? It can be common to feel that way when facing grief, old and new trauma, loss, illness, depression, burnout, or other situations that get in the way of feeling whole. Whatever suffering brings you here, you have found a safe space to move toward healing.
(657) 837-6084 View (657) 837-6084
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 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 Beth Sterling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Beth Sterling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
If you are feeling overwhelmed and stressed by life changes, grief, relationship stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, I'd be honored to help.
If you're here, you've taken the first huge step towards getting the support and care that you are seeking. Whatever is bringing you to seek therapy, you are now on your way to finding ways to cope and alleviate your stress or discomfort. We'll work together in a safe, supportive space to discover the root of your challenges and explore coping skills and techniques that will help you feel prepared to handle your current situation. My goal is to also empower you to feel independent and confident if or when difficult times come your way.
If you are feeling overwhelmed and stressed by life changes, grief, relationship stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, I'd be honored to help.
If you're here, you've taken the first huge step towards getting the support and care that you are seeking. Whatever is bringing you to seek therapy, you are now on your way to finding ways to cope and alleviate your stress or discomfort. We'll work together in a safe, supportive space to discover the root of your challenges and explore coping skills and techniques that will help you feel prepared to handle your current situation. My goal is to also empower you to feel independent and confident if or when difficult times come your way.
(805) 283-4537 View (805) 283-4537
Photo of Arthur Lien, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Arthur Lien
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802
I work with individuals, couples, and families to help them restore hope, find meaning, and feel empowered after experiencing loss or trauma. Loss and change are inevitable, but the grief that follows loss – be it a loved one, a pet, a relationship, a job, or even a part of your identity – can be overwhelming. You do not have to endure the pain alone. If you have experienced a loss or are working through difficult childhood traumas that leave you feeling lost, anxious, or depressed, I am here to walk alongside you.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to help them restore hope, find meaning, and feel empowered after experiencing loss or trauma. Loss and change are inevitable, but the grief that follows loss – be it a loved one, a pet, a relationship, a job, or even a part of your identity – can be overwhelming. You do not have to endure the pain alone. If you have experienced a loss or are working through difficult childhood traumas that leave you feeling lost, anxious, or depressed, I am here to walk alongside you.
(949) 763-3722 View (949) 763-3722
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 Amy Rhoades, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Amy Rhoades
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802
Hello there, I am Amy Rhoades, LCSW. Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed and unsure how to find new coping strategies? Are you struggling with being kind to yourself? Have you experienced trauma throughout your life, a one time event, or even through childhood and need support in managing the symptoms of the trauma or other life events? Do you struggle with grief and loss, and feel getting out of grief is never ending? Or substance use? I am here to help you find your inner strengths and resiliency. I work with those with PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, just to name a few.
Hello there, I am Amy Rhoades, LCSW. Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed and unsure how to find new coping strategies? Are you struggling with being kind to yourself? Have you experienced trauma throughout your life, a one time event, or even through childhood and need support in managing the symptoms of the trauma or other life events? Do you struggle with grief and loss, and feel getting out of grief is never ending? Or substance use? I am here to help you find your inner strengths and resiliency. I work with those with PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, just to name a few.
(909) 787-2905 View (909) 787-2905
Photo of Rachel Mauricio, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Rachel Mauricio
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90801
My clinical focus centers: trauma, PTSD, and complex PTSD, grief, racialized stress and trauma, identity exploration and expression, full spectrum of pre/perinatal and postpartum experiences, parenting, aging, spiritual growth and liberation, life transitions and transformation.
I specialize in trauma-informed somatic (body-based) therapy for BIPOC. My somatic, psychodynamic, attachment, and spiritual approach supports clients in building a compassionate relationship with themself. My somatic approach also facilitates familiarization with how the nervous system communicates and the relational needs that are expressed through the body.
My clinical focus centers: trauma, PTSD, and complex PTSD, grief, racialized stress and trauma, identity exploration and expression, full spectrum of pre/perinatal and postpartum experiences, parenting, aging, spiritual growth and liberation, life transitions and transformation.
I specialize in trauma-informed somatic (body-based) therapy for BIPOC. My somatic, psychodynamic, attachment, and spiritual approach supports clients in building a compassionate relationship with themself. My somatic approach also facilitates familiarization with how the nervous system communicates and the relational needs that are expressed through the body.
(415) 326-0044 View (415) 326-0044
Nancy Soliman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90805  (Online Only)
I also work with adults struggling with trauma, parenting, transitions, grief and loss, work/life balance, strengthening communications and much more.
Are you struggling with every day tasks, feeling sad, out of place and just overwhelmed with life and all the things that come with it? Are you ready to learn how to recognize your own strengths, potentials, heal and become free? Do you struggle with your child/adolescents behaviors, feel like you've tried everything and nothing is working? I'd be honored if you allow me to take this journey with you and your family. HI, my name is Nancy Soliman and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).
I also work with adults struggling with trauma, parenting, transitions, grief and loss, work/life balance, strengthening communications and much more.
Are you struggling with every day tasks, feeling sad, out of place and just overwhelmed with life and all the things that come with it? Are you ready to learn how to recognize your own strengths, potentials, heal and become free? Do you struggle with your child/adolescents behaviors, feel like you've tried everything and nothing is working? I'd be honored if you allow me to take this journey with you and your family. HI, my name is Nancy Soliman and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).
(310) 929-6803 View (310) 929-6803
Photo of Stacia Deiro, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Stacia Deiro
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Are you struggling with managing stress, a low mood, grief, or a loss of your "sense of self" that affects your daily life? Do you feel overwhelmed by life right now? Do you hope that your situation could improve but don't know where to start? I understand that sometimes circumstances may feel overwhelming or hopeless. I am here to support you in dealing with curve balls, whether you are struggling with issues related to a life-changing event, adolescent challenges, or mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, and situations in which you simply feel stuck.
Are you struggling with managing stress, a low mood, grief, or a loss of your "sense of self" that affects your daily life? Do you feel overwhelmed by life right now? Do you hope that your situation could improve but don't know where to start? I understand that sometimes circumstances may feel overwhelming or hopeless. I am here to support you in dealing with curve balls, whether you are struggling with issues related to a life-changing event, adolescent challenges, or mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, and situations in which you simply feel stuck.
(949) 270-3313 View (949) 270-3313
Photo of Maryam Ashraf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Maryam Ashraf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
(562) 662-7257 View (562) 662-7257
Photo of Justine Gordon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
(562) 294-4242 View (562) 294-4242
Photo of Cryssol Marquez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Cryssol Marquez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA Ed
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
Experience working with clients experiencing domestic violence depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting, teen concerns, life transitions, and a wide range of challenges, including grief/loss, trauma, sexual and physical abuse and crisis as well as adjustment issues.
My experience is in community mental health and private practice with clients experiencing a range of challenges with life, relational issues and victims of crimes since 2013. Also, I collaborate with DCFS when applicable. I meet clients "where they are in their journey" and serve as a support for individuals progressing through their unique process of self-discovery and realization. We work collaboratively to meet your needs and reach your goals. I draw from the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality and Solution Focused Therapy.
Experience working with clients experiencing domestic violence depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting, teen concerns, life transitions, and a wide range of challenges, including grief/loss, trauma, sexual and physical abuse and crisis as well as adjustment issues.
My experience is in community mental health and private practice with clients experiencing a range of challenges with life, relational issues and victims of crimes since 2013. Also, I collaborate with DCFS when applicable. I meet clients "where they are in their journey" and serve as a support for individuals progressing through their unique process of self-discovery and realization. We work collaboratively to meet your needs and reach your goals. I draw from the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality and Solution Focused Therapy.
(323) 797-5860 View (323) 797-5860
Photo of Valerie Macy-Hurley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Valerie Macy-Hurley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
For as long as I can remember, I have felt called to serve others through compassion, connection & a sense of humor. With 20+ years of experience guiding people of all ages & walks of life to overcome their mental health challenges (including anxiety, depression, OCD, Eating Disorders & ADHD), I have the expertise you’re looking for. I also have extensive experience supporting those with acute & chronic medical conditions, bereavement & trauma (I am trauma-informed-care educated). Additionally, my experience serving diverse populations has fueled my passion for helping others navigate social, medical and educational inequities.
For as long as I can remember, I have felt called to serve others through compassion, connection & a sense of humor. With 20+ years of experience guiding people of all ages & walks of life to overcome their mental health challenges (including anxiety, depression, OCD, Eating Disorders & ADHD), I have the expertise you’re looking for. I also have extensive experience supporting those with acute & chronic medical conditions, bereavement & trauma (I am trauma-informed-care educated). Additionally, my experience serving diverse populations has fueled my passion for helping others navigate social, medical and educational inequities.
(562) 684-6036 View (562) 684-6036
Photo of Constanza Patricia Whitwood - Love Listen And Play, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Constanza Patricia Whitwood - Love Listen And Play
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
I have experience and training in evidence-based approaches to managing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, with specialized training in supporting children, teens, and pregnant/postpartum mothers.
Life can be overwhelming. Compassionate support and gentle guidance in times of stress, difficulty, and transition is a gamechanger. Maybe you are struggling to adjust to motherhood or the demands of parenting, or you are reeling after a significant loss, or you (or your child) are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or trauma that are interfering with your day-to-day life. You want to feel more like yourself again, and less out of control, and know that you need some help to get through this.
I have experience and training in evidence-based approaches to managing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, with specialized training in supporting children, teens, and pregnant/postpartum mothers.
Life can be overwhelming. Compassionate support and gentle guidance in times of stress, difficulty, and transition is a gamechanger. Maybe you are struggling to adjust to motherhood or the demands of parenting, or you are reeling after a significant loss, or you (or your child) are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or trauma that are interfering with your day-to-day life. You want to feel more like yourself again, and less out of control, and know that you need some help to get through this.
(562) 655-8528 View (562) 655-8528
Photo of Taleen Barsam, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Taleen Barsam
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90806
I work with clients who are experiencing a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, and self-esteem.
Now Accepting New Clients - - - If you're feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, or a general sense of disconnection, working with a therapist can be a huge step towards relief and healing. I am passionate about supporting you as you gain self-awareness, experience psychological freedom, increase fulfillment in your relationships, and embrace your most authentic self. My approach is holistic, taking into account the integration of mind, body, emotions, will and spirit. Collaboratively, we will take into consideration your needs and goals, while I tailor an approach that best supports your individual journey.
I work with clients who are experiencing a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, and self-esteem.
Now Accepting New Clients - - - If you're feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, or a general sense of disconnection, working with a therapist can be a huge step towards relief and healing. I am passionate about supporting you as you gain self-awareness, experience psychological freedom, increase fulfillment in your relationships, and embrace your most authentic self. My approach is holistic, taking into account the integration of mind, body, emotions, will and spirit. Collaboratively, we will take into consideration your needs and goals, while I tailor an approach that best supports your individual journey.
(562) 276-2827 View (562) 276-2827
Photo of Kendall Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Kendall Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
Do you desire a stronger relationship with yourself, family, friends and/or a romantic partner? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, unresolved grief, trauma or self-esteem? Together, we can examine what is making you feel stuck. I want to support you in strengthening and building upon the innate skills you have to face the current difficulties in your life. By gaining insight about your thoughts, feelings and behavior it can allow you the ability to make lasting change.
Do you desire a stronger relationship with yourself, family, friends and/or a romantic partner? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, unresolved grief, trauma or self-esteem? Together, we can examine what is making you feel stuck. I want to support you in strengthening and building upon the innate skills you have to face the current difficulties in your life. By gaining insight about your thoughts, feelings and behavior it can allow you the ability to make lasting change.
(562) 317-7548 View (562) 317-7548
Photo of Alex Merlo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Alex Merlo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90813
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults struggling with issues related to depression, self harm, suicidal ideation, substance use, eating disorders, grief and loss, developmental delays, anxiety, stress, defiance, trauma and family conflict/systems.
***ONLY PRACTICING VIRTUAL CURRENTLY*** If this is your first time in therapy, I know that it can be an uncomfortable situation putting yourself out there, but I just wanted to say, you came to the right place. It is a huge step to be able to advocate yourself and acknowledge the fact that you may need some more support in some areas of your life. If it is not your first time, welcome back! I am looking forward to working with you.
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults struggling with issues related to depression, self harm, suicidal ideation, substance use, eating disorders, grief and loss, developmental delays, anxiety, stress, defiance, trauma and family conflict/systems.
***ONLY PRACTICING VIRTUAL CURRENTLY*** If this is your first time in therapy, I know that it can be an uncomfortable situation putting yourself out there, but I just wanted to say, you came to the right place. It is a huge step to be able to advocate yourself and acknowledge the fact that you may need some more support in some areas of your life. If it is not your first time, welcome back! I am looking forward to working with you.
(310) 362-9923 View (310) 362-9923
Photo of Andrea Pacheco, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Andrea Pacheco
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
My specialties include: - Pre-Marital & Marital Therapy - Family Therapy - Codependency - Transitional and Adjustment Issues - Teens/Adolescents - Life Stressors - Grief - Parenting - School Issues - Relationship Issues.
Are you experiencing communication issues with your significant other? Does it feel like you are experiencing constant tension between the two of you? Couples therapy can give you the chance to address negative patterns in your relationship that may be keeping you from experiencing true intimacy. Together we can work towards uncovering attachment patterns that shape your interactions. And if your partner is not motivated to attend therapy with you, individual treatment can help you better understand why you say/do/feel certain things which will help improve how you relate to others. Please note: I am no longer accepting insurance.
My specialties include: - Pre-Marital & Marital Therapy - Family Therapy - Codependency - Transitional and Adjustment Issues - Teens/Adolescents - Life Stressors - Grief - Parenting - School Issues - Relationship Issues.
Are you experiencing communication issues with your significant other? Does it feel like you are experiencing constant tension between the two of you? Couples therapy can give you the chance to address negative patterns in your relationship that may be keeping you from experiencing true intimacy. Together we can work towards uncovering attachment patterns that shape your interactions. And if your partner is not motivated to attend therapy with you, individual treatment can help you better understand why you say/do/feel certain things which will help improve how you relate to others. Please note: I am no longer accepting insurance.
(424) 277-2595 View (424) 277-2595
Photo of Elisa V Lima, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Elisa V Lima
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
I provide therapy for issues related to, but not limited to: grief, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, parenting, sexuality, adjustment/life transitions, family/spousal conflict.
Contemplating therapy can provoke feelings of nervousness and doubt due to thoughts like "Will it really help?" or excuses like "I don't have the time". My answer: why not see for yourself? Isn't it worth a try? I am here to listen to you. Having worked with families, children, adolescents, and adults for over 10 years as a therapist and school social worker, I know how to create a safe and empowering environment to process feelings and build insight, problem solving, and coping skills.
I provide therapy for issues related to, but not limited to: grief, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, parenting, sexuality, adjustment/life transitions, family/spousal conflict.
Contemplating therapy can provoke feelings of nervousness and doubt due to thoughts like "Will it really help?" or excuses like "I don't have the time". My answer: why not see for yourself? Isn't it worth a try? I am here to listen to you. Having worked with families, children, adolescents, and adults for over 10 years as a therapist and school social worker, I know how to create a safe and empowering environment to process feelings and build insight, problem solving, and coping skills.
(562) 449-4614 View (562) 449-4614
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.