Photo of Sherman Oaks Mental Health Group GP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Sherman Oaks Mental Health Group GP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I am an LCSW with almost 30 years of experience in treating clients with anxiety, depression, addictions, grief and loss, animal companion losses, LGBTQ identity, and the unique needs of the artistic personality. I work with great sensitivity, empathy, and compassion for those who come to me in pain, seeking relief from those conflicts that weigh you down and prevent you from reaching your maximum potential and dignity as worthy and valuable human beings. I am also an EMDR trained therapist who specializes in treating a variety of simple and complex traumas.
I am an LCSW with almost 30 years of experience in treating clients with anxiety, depression, addictions, grief and loss, animal companion losses, LGBTQ identity, and the unique needs of the artistic personality. I work with great sensitivity, empathy, and compassion for those who come to me in pain, seeking relief from those conflicts that weigh you down and prevent you from reaching your maximum potential and dignity as worthy and valuable human beings. I am also an EMDR trained therapist who specializes in treating a variety of simple and complex traumas.
(626) 723-3086 View (626) 723-3086
Photo of Pamela Freundl Kirst Phd Jungian Analyst, Psychologist in Los Angeles County, CA
Pamela Freundl Kirst Phd Jungian Analyst
Psychologist, Jungian
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I also work adults who experienced the loss of a parent too early in their lives.
When you are suffering, it helps to have a support and guidance to find a new way forward. My clients find it easy to talk to me and feel understood. Healing happens within a safe space where you can speak openly about your pain and explore yourself deeply. Through this work new ways of being unfold. My training as a Jungian Psychoanalyst enables me to work closely with clients to explore dreams and creative images as well as their daily lives and history. I bring my full presence, sense of humor, intuition, and spiritual understanding to the therapeutic process.
I also work adults who experienced the loss of a parent too early in their lives.
When you are suffering, it helps to have a support and guidance to find a new way forward. My clients find it easy to talk to me and feel understood. Healing happens within a safe space where you can speak openly about your pain and explore yourself deeply. Through this work new ways of being unfold. My training as a Jungian Psychoanalyst enables me to work closely with clients to explore dreams and creative images as well as their daily lives and history. I bring my full presence, sense of humor, intuition, and spiritual understanding to the therapeutic process.
(310) 740-9758 View (310) 740-9758
Photo of Jamie Burger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Jamie Burger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90039  (Online Only)
I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist for 20 years, working with a wide range of clients and issues, including grief, anxiety and trauma. I believe when a client feels safe and has guidance they can work through pain and difficulty feelings and begin to heal.
I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist for 20 years, working with a wide range of clients and issues, including grief, anxiety and trauma. I believe when a client feels safe and has guidance they can work through pain and difficulty feelings and begin to heal.
(323) 417-0494 View (323) 417-0494
Photo of Dr. Mollie Rothseid, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles County, CA
Dr. Mollie Rothseid
Associate Clinical Social Worker, PhD, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
We all have times in life where we find ourselves presented us with challenges that can feel overwhelming. As a gerontologist and clinical social worker, I specialize in working with dementia, Alzheimer's, grief, chronic illness, and the complexities of aging. I warmly welcome individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're a parent with a child dealing with school-related stress, an adult navigating life's transitions, or an older adult coping with the intricacies of aging, I'm here to provide a safe and welcoming environment where your experiences are valued with compassion and acceptance.
We all have times in life where we find ourselves presented us with challenges that can feel overwhelming. As a gerontologist and clinical social worker, I specialize in working with dementia, Alzheimer's, grief, chronic illness, and the complexities of aging. I warmly welcome individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're a parent with a child dealing with school-related stress, an adult navigating life's transitions, or an older adult coping with the intricacies of aging, I'm here to provide a safe and welcoming environment where your experiences are valued with compassion and acceptance.
(310) 504-6953 View (310) 504-6953
Photo of Christina G Mitchell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Christina G Mitchell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montrose, CA 91020
If you're someone who's had trauma, an illness, recent loss, relationship struggles strong emotions of anger and/or saddness that are getting in the way of living fully, I'm here, bringing my 20+ years experience helping folks work through barriers to lasting change. Often past experiences or current situations cause us to develop creative ways of surviving that don't function well. I work with folks on processing their present concerns while keeping an open door to looking at the past and dreams that inform, revealing the source of repeating patterns. I help people to transform their pain into new meaningful emotional experience.
If you're someone who's had trauma, an illness, recent loss, relationship struggles strong emotions of anger and/or saddness that are getting in the way of living fully, I'm here, bringing my 20+ years experience helping folks work through barriers to lasting change. Often past experiences or current situations cause us to develop creative ways of surviving that don't function well. I work with folks on processing their present concerns while keeping an open door to looking at the past and dreams that inform, revealing the source of repeating patterns. I help people to transform their pain into new meaningful emotional experience.
(818) 457-6957 View (818) 457-6957
Photo of Maru Serricchio-Joiner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Maru Serricchio-Joiner
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
Waitlist for new clients
My work has focused around attachment, loss/grief, life transition and communication impasses.
Imagine the following: you have been using the same paint palette for a while. You never clean the palette, so all the paint from the past years have dried on top of each other. One day, you feel uneasy with the top color so you decide to rip it off. It isn't until you turn it over that you see all the colors and realize they cannot be separated from each other. I focus on the clients as a whole and I believe that whatever brings you to therapy is deeply rooted in your cumulative life experiences, not in isolation.
My work has focused around attachment, loss/grief, life transition and communication impasses.
Imagine the following: you have been using the same paint palette for a while. You never clean the palette, so all the paint from the past years have dried on top of each other. One day, you feel uneasy with the top color so you decide to rip it off. It isn't until you turn it over that you see all the colors and realize they cannot be separated from each other. I focus on the clients as a whole and I believe that whatever brings you to therapy is deeply rooted in your cumulative life experiences, not in isolation.
(661) 369-8295 View (661) 369-8295
Photo of Dabney Worth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Dabney Worth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
I have 30 years experience working with individuals, couples and families dealing with life's struggles, overwhelming emotions, end of life issues, and grief and loss. My approach is warm and gentle, yet insightful and to the point. I create an inviting atmosphere where my clients feel comfortable to delve deep to bring about peace of mind and profound change. My approach incorporates a variety of evidenced based therapeutic approaches including mindfulness, DBT, CBT, and EMDR. You will find me to be both caring and firm, while I help you along your journey to building a life worth living.
I have 30 years experience working with individuals, couples and families dealing with life's struggles, overwhelming emotions, end of life issues, and grief and loss. My approach is warm and gentle, yet insightful and to the point. I create an inviting atmosphere where my clients feel comfortable to delve deep to bring about peace of mind and profound change. My approach incorporates a variety of evidenced based therapeutic approaches including mindfulness, DBT, CBT, and EMDR. You will find me to be both caring and firm, while I help you along your journey to building a life worth living.
(844) 432-0358 View (844) 432-0358
Photo of Norma Huerta, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Norma Huerta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90602
It is an honor to provide you with guidance in finding solutions to your specific needs. You will receive a plan of treatment that is unique to you and with an approach that will help you meet your goals. My client history includes all ethnicities, individuals, couples, and families who seek to improve relationships, heal from trauma, adjust to a separation, relieve anxiety symptoms, manage anger, bereavement processing, and alleviation of depression symptoms. The goal of therapy is unique to each individual and serves to assist in recognizing problems and taking action to decrease or eliminate potential impacts to you and your relationships.
It is an honor to provide you with guidance in finding solutions to your specific needs. You will receive a plan of treatment that is unique to you and with an approach that will help you meet your goals. My client history includes all ethnicities, individuals, couples, and families who seek to improve relationships, heal from trauma, adjust to a separation, relieve anxiety symptoms, manage anger, bereavement processing, and alleviation of depression symptoms. The goal of therapy is unique to each individual and serves to assist in recognizing problems and taking action to decrease or eliminate potential impacts to you and your relationships.
(562) 337-3791 View (562) 337-3791
Photo of Jin Yi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Jin Yi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Van Nuys, CA 91401  (Online Only)
I also work with individuals who are going through grief and loss.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California. I have worked with people experiencing opioid addiction and helped those who struggled with substance use and their maladaptive coping strategies. In addition, I have had rich experiences working with older adults for many years. In life’s journey, people face many barriers facing mountains to climb and oceans to cross. I wish to help people to break those barriers and develop healthy coping skills to live a successful life. I'm fluent in Korean. 한국어 상담 가능합니다.
I also work with individuals who are going through grief and loss.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California. I have worked with people experiencing opioid addiction and helped those who struggled with substance use and their maladaptive coping strategies. In addition, I have had rich experiences working with older adults for many years. In life’s journey, people face many barriers facing mountains to climb and oceans to cross. I wish to help people to break those barriers and develop healthy coping skills to live a successful life. I'm fluent in Korean. 한국어 상담 가능합니다.
(626) 790-7448 View (626) 790-7448
Photo of Melissa Hood, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles County, CA
Melissa Hood
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
If you’re experiencing obstacles to your dream of having children, you may be dealing with deep disappointment, depression, anger, loss, isolation, and spiritual questioning.
Infertility is a journey that no one signed up for. For those who want children, it’s simply devastating to be unable to expand your family as planned, while others around you move forward with their lives. Yet 1 in 8 couples experience infertility and many others experience barriers—systemic, financial, and biological—to pursuing their family-building dreams. In my practice, I focus on issues related to fertility (delayed parenthood, egg-freezing, pregnancy loss, donor-conception, surrogacy, IVF, and other forms of family-building). I understand the intense stress these issues can place on your relationships and mental health.
If you’re experiencing obstacles to your dream of having children, you may be dealing with deep disappointment, depression, anger, loss, isolation, and spiritual questioning.
Infertility is a journey that no one signed up for. For those who want children, it’s simply devastating to be unable to expand your family as planned, while others around you move forward with their lives. Yet 1 in 8 couples experience infertility and many others experience barriers—systemic, financial, and biological—to pursuing their family-building dreams. In my practice, I focus on issues related to fertility (delayed parenthood, egg-freezing, pregnancy loss, donor-conception, surrogacy, IVF, and other forms of family-building). I understand the intense stress these issues can place on your relationships and mental health.
(213) 267-7526 View (213) 267-7526
Photo of Tatiana Itskowitz, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles County, 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 Iris Therapy & Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Iris Therapy & Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, 87811
Verified Verified
Pico Rivera, CA 90660  (Online Only)
Your story matters! I am here to listen to your story and guide you in your healing journey. My intention is that you feel heard and understood in session. The hope is that you can embrace the changes and find love for yourself as you go through life's transitions. This can feel overwhelming, often leaving us feeling stuck. If you are a woman experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, loss, challenges with any stage of motherhood or a couple going through challenging times, I can support you.
Your story matters! I am here to listen to your story and guide you in your healing journey. My intention is that you feel heard and understood in session. The hope is that you can embrace the changes and find love for yourself as you go through life's transitions. This can feel overwhelming, often leaving us feeling stuck. If you are a woman experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, loss, challenges with any stage of motherhood or a couple going through challenging times, I can support you.
(562) 620-3697 View (562) 620-3697
Photo of Madeline Elia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Madeline Elia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90232  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m Madeline. I specialize in helping individuals and couples make meaning out of challenges and loss, navigate transitions, and deepen their relationships with others. Most of us encounter some form of trauma or loss in our lives, and these challenges can impact our mood, our sense of self, and our relationship with the world around us. I provide a warm, collaborative space for clients to uncover and re-frame unhelpful beliefs, develop skills to cope with anxiety and depression, and set helpful boundaries with those around them.
Hi! I’m Madeline. I specialize in helping individuals and couples make meaning out of challenges and loss, navigate transitions, and deepen their relationships with others. Most of us encounter some form of trauma or loss in our lives, and these challenges can impact our mood, our sense of self, and our relationship with the world around us. I provide a warm, collaborative space for clients to uncover and re-frame unhelpful beliefs, develop skills to cope with anxiety and depression, and set helpful boundaries with those around them.
(424) 484-0721 View (424) 484-0721
Photo of Courtney Killough, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Courtney Killough
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302
If you are struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, or a lack of self-esteem, I utilize Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) tools to shift limiting beliefs and quiet ‘dis-ease’ present for you to move into ‘ease-ful' states.
Do you feel out of alignment with your authentic self or disconnected from your partner? I help you develop self-awareness and a new relationship with your thoughts and emotions to increase conscious choices, purpose, and relational connections. In marriage and couples counseling, I help you move from negative, hurtful and lonely dynamics to internal safety and a deeper emotional connection through Attachment-based Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. I support you in creating new stories that demonstrate your genuine loving connection, opening you up to feel more peace, flow, and sweetness in your relationship.
If you are struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, or a lack of self-esteem, I utilize Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) tools to shift limiting beliefs and quiet ‘dis-ease’ present for you to move into ‘ease-ful' states.
Do you feel out of alignment with your authentic self or disconnected from your partner? I help you develop self-awareness and a new relationship with your thoughts and emotions to increase conscious choices, purpose, and relational connections. In marriage and couples counseling, I help you move from negative, hurtful and lonely dynamics to internal safety and a deeper emotional connection through Attachment-based Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. I support you in creating new stories that demonstrate your genuine loving connection, opening you up to feel more peace, flow, and sweetness in your relationship.
(424) 392-6136 View (424) 392-6136
Photo of Spencer D Presler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Spencer D Presler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I have worked internationally with children, teens, & adults for over 20 years, & have extensive experience with grief/bereavement, crisis intervention, health-related trauma & challenges, as well as other mental health issues, including depression & anger-management.
I believe that at times we all get sad, down, bummed-out, etc… but nobody needs to be depressed; I believe that therapy need not be: - intimidating; uncomfortable; awkward; unsafe; labeling/diagnostic, OR indoors; I believe that life can be really challenging, especially for those who try to get through it alone; I believe that nobody should even attempt to get through it alone; I believe that "craziness" is in the eye of the beholder & each of us is crazy in our own uniquely beautiful ways..
I have worked internationally with children, teens, & adults for over 20 years, & have extensive experience with grief/bereavement, crisis intervention, health-related trauma & challenges, as well as other mental health issues, including depression & anger-management.
I believe that at times we all get sad, down, bummed-out, etc… but nobody needs to be depressed; I believe that therapy need not be: - intimidating; uncomfortable; awkward; unsafe; labeling/diagnostic, OR indoors; I believe that life can be really challenging, especially for those who try to get through it alone; I believe that nobody should even attempt to get through it alone; I believe that "craziness" is in the eye of the beholder & each of us is crazy in our own uniquely beautiful ways..
(951) 530-4283 View (951) 530-4283
Photo of Carolyn Jean Christ, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles County, CA
Carolyn Jean Christ
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
I have special training and experience working with trauma and with grieving children and teens, and I am trained in Trauma & Grief Component Therapy (TGCT) for adolescents.
A meaningful therapeutic relationship can be a nurturing and generative environment for growth and empowerment. In an accepting and loving space, hopes, fears, anxiety, depression, and trauma can be safely explored and harnessed as agents of change. I am passionate about the possibilities for healing and radical self-acceptance within each unique client and therapist relationship. Our work together will be collaborative, containing, and non-judgmental, exploring the past and present, as well as hopes for the future. I work from a place of warmth, curiosity, humor, and deep reverence for your unique life experience.
I have special training and experience working with trauma and with grieving children and teens, and I am trained in Trauma & Grief Component Therapy (TGCT) for adolescents.
A meaningful therapeutic relationship can be a nurturing and generative environment for growth and empowerment. In an accepting and loving space, hopes, fears, anxiety, depression, and trauma can be safely explored and harnessed as agents of change. I am passionate about the possibilities for healing and radical self-acceptance within each unique client and therapist relationship. Our work together will be collaborative, containing, and non-judgmental, exploring the past and present, as well as hopes for the future. I work from a place of warmth, curiosity, humor, and deep reverence for your unique life experience.
(818) 308-1356 View (818) 308-1356
Photo of Sharyn Nichols, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Sharyn Nichols
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
At different times in our lives we can feel stuck and struggle with finding our way. Sometimes our ways of handling these struggles aren't helpful or may even prevent us from growing. I work with clients who are dealing with depression and anxiety, loss and trauma, having difficulties in relationships, work, school, parenting, and life-stage transitions. In this safe, supportive and warm environment we will work together to support you and your growth, while also understanding the root of your distress. I inspire clients to work through frustration, anger, and bitterness to have more satisfying, peaceful and successful lives.
At different times in our lives we can feel stuck and struggle with finding our way. Sometimes our ways of handling these struggles aren't helpful or may even prevent us from growing. I work with clients who are dealing with depression and anxiety, loss and trauma, having difficulties in relationships, work, school, parenting, and life-stage transitions. In this safe, supportive and warm environment we will work together to support you and your growth, while also understanding the root of your distress. I inspire clients to work through frustration, anger, and bitterness to have more satisfying, peaceful and successful lives.
(310) 331-8452 View (310) 331-8452
Photo of Veronica Gomez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, 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 Laura Bloomberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Laura Bloomberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (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 Susan A Pollard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, 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

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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.