Therapists in Los Angeles County, CA

Photo of Marjorie Faga, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Marjorie Faga
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacoima, CA 91331
My clients come to me with a wide range of issues including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, grief and loss, low self-esteem, and relationship issues.
My name is Marjorie Fagan, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing for the past thirteen years. I feel so privileged to do what I do! I live in sunny southern California with my partner of many years and my three cats, three dogs, and my tortoise, who is currently hibernating (don't we all wish we could do that at times)? I have worked in a variety of clinical settings, with many ethnic populations, and age groups. I will help you work through issues that are holding you back from being your authentic self. Those issues that are too big or overwhelming to solve on your own.
My clients come to me with a wide range of issues including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, grief and loss, low self-esteem, and relationship issues.
My name is Marjorie Fagan, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing for the past thirteen years. I feel so privileged to do what I do! I live in sunny southern California with my partner of many years and my three cats, three dogs, and my tortoise, who is currently hibernating (don't we all wish we could do that at times)? I have worked in a variety of clinical settings, with many ethnic populations, and age groups. I will help you work through issues that are holding you back from being your authentic self. Those issues that are too big or overwhelming to solve on your own.
(747) 302-3771 View (747) 302-3771
Photo of Georena Bynog, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Georena Bynog
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
El Monte, CA 91732
Georena Dearborne-Bynog is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a strong desire to be a support to those that need it. Georena has over 13 years of experience working with children, families, young, and older adults. Georena typically works best with those battling issues with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and grief.
Georena Dearborne-Bynog is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a strong desire to be a support to those that need it. Georena has over 13 years of experience working with children, families, young, and older adults. Georena typically works best with those battling issues with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and grief.
(323) 379-0493 View (323) 379-0493
Photo of Helen Garcia, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles County, CA
Helen Garcia
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91502
Hi, I'm Helen - a Filipina Asian American therapist. First, I want to acknowledge your decision to start therapy. This decision might come from the realization that "something isn't right". You might be scared, lost, and dealing with a lot of anxiety, sadness, and grief. You may even be struggling secretly. But, you don't have to struggle through this alone. l believe therapy is a brave space to reclaim your identity and begin learning the skills necessary to create a meaningful life. We can work together to help unlearn patterns that don't serve you, to make space for healthy communication and peace.
Hi, I'm Helen - a Filipina Asian American therapist. First, I want to acknowledge your decision to start therapy. This decision might come from the realization that "something isn't right". You might be scared, lost, and dealing with a lot of anxiety, sadness, and grief. You may even be struggling secretly. But, you don't have to struggle through this alone. l believe therapy is a brave space to reclaim your identity and begin learning the skills necessary to create a meaningful life. We can work together to help unlearn patterns that don't serve you, to make space for healthy communication and peace.
(747) 319-4975 View (747) 319-4975
Photo of Douye' D Youduba-Tantua, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Douye' D Youduba-Tantua
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Psychological Associate with expertise and advanced training in evidence-based practices. I have extensive experience working with adults and older adults who are experiencing challenges related to mood disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma-related issues, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational and attachment challenges, stress and stress-related concerns, and trauma issues. and grief and loss.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Psychological Associate with expertise and advanced training in evidence-based practices. I have extensive experience working with adults and older adults who are experiencing challenges related to mood disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma-related issues, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational and attachment challenges, stress and stress-related concerns, and trauma issues. and grief and loss.
(818) 431-2644 View (818) 431-2644
Photo of Lori M Downing, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, 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 Natalie Thome, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Natalie Thome
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
I specialize in working with teenagers through adults who are struggling with issues of anxiety, depression, relationship challenges and loss.
I strive to provide a safe space for you to sort through and process challenging or negative thought patterns. I have spent much of my career working with people and their families in coping with advanced illnesses and end of life so I can provide specialized care for those grieving. Grief also applies to many other areas of life as relationships end or life does not turn out as you had expected or hoped. I believe that you are the expert of you and I serve as a trained listener to help you sort through your challenges, values and goals to determine your priorities and next steps or simply consider alternative perspectives.
I specialize in working with teenagers through adults who are struggling with issues of anxiety, depression, relationship challenges and loss.
I strive to provide a safe space for you to sort through and process challenging or negative thought patterns. I have spent much of my career working with people and their families in coping with advanced illnesses and end of life so I can provide specialized care for those grieving. Grief also applies to many other areas of life as relationships end or life does not turn out as you had expected or hoped. I believe that you are the expert of you and I serve as a trained listener to help you sort through your challenges, values and goals to determine your priorities and next steps or simply consider alternative perspectives.
(310) 347-4746 View (310) 347-4746
Photo of Jennifer Sato-Veloz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Jennifer Sato-Veloz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Woodland Hills, CA 91364  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with childhood trauma, family caregiving, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, burnout, faith/spirituality, postpartum and exploring issues related to race/culture.
Whether you are coming to therapy to heal, grieve, recover or rediscover- it would be a privilege to journey with you this season. I hope to provide you with compassionate and caring support as we explore and process your story together. I have over 15 years of experience and have worked with a wide range of individuals from college students to older adults, creative professionals to family caregivers.
I specialize in working with childhood trauma, family caregiving, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, burnout, faith/spirituality, postpartum and exploring issues related to race/culture.
Whether you are coming to therapy to heal, grieve, recover or rediscover- it would be a privilege to journey with you this season. I hope to provide you with compassionate and caring support as we explore and process your story together. I have over 15 years of experience and have worked with a wide range of individuals from college students to older adults, creative professionals to family caregivers.
(818) 975-3807 View (818) 975-3807
Photo of Jonathan Delgado, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles County, CA
Jonathan Delgado
Associate Clinical Social Worker, DPA, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
San Dimas, CA 91773
I have personally experienced the loss of a child and truly understand loss and grief.
My approach to counseling takes into account that each client is unique and views their problems and solutions from their unique perspective. Also, each client possesses unique talents and gifts that should be recognized and highlighted to strengthen their coping skills. I incorporate PCT, CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused Therapy in my practice. I find these therapies beneficial with brief therapy and to help move clients through the forest of life’s issues. I appreciate clients that identify their need for help and are willing to make life changes, and I represent the values of restoring hope, inspiring growth, and empowerment.
I have personally experienced the loss of a child and truly understand loss and grief.
My approach to counseling takes into account that each client is unique and views their problems and solutions from their unique perspective. Also, each client possesses unique talents and gifts that should be recognized and highlighted to strengthen their coping skills. I incorporate PCT, CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused Therapy in my practice. I find these therapies beneficial with brief therapy and to help move clients through the forest of life’s issues. I appreciate clients that identify their need for help and are willing to make life changes, and I represent the values of restoring hope, inspiring growth, and empowerment.
(626) 669-3197 View (626) 669-3197
Photo of Jessi Blank, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Los Angeles County, CA
Jessi Blank
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
While I am confident in my general work around anxiety, depression, and trauma, I have a specific interest in working with faith-related concerns (as a Christian therapist, your faith is in safe hands!), OCD, history of addiction whether personal or familial, grief and loss issues, and those that might identify having a disordered relationship with their body. I am also certified in integrative somatic trauma therapy and can provide body-based practices in our work as well. You do not have to navigate the stresses of life alone, nor should you have to.
While I am confident in my general work around anxiety, depression, and trauma, I have a specific interest in working with faith-related concerns (as a Christian therapist, your faith is in safe hands!), OCD, history of addiction whether personal or familial, grief and loss issues, and those that might identify having a disordered relationship with their body. I am also certified in integrative somatic trauma therapy and can provide body-based practices in our work as well. You do not have to navigate the stresses of life alone, nor should you have to.
(626) 507-7969 View (626) 507-7969
Photo of Karla Reyes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Karla Reyes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
I also assist clients in developing skills in bettering their life and managing their symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief , and trauma .
I am an empathetic therapist with a passion to create a space where clients can be heard and seen. I have a passion for helping others find healing and growth in their lives and in their relationships with others.
I also assist clients in developing skills in bettering their life and managing their symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief , and trauma .
I am an empathetic therapist with a passion to create a space where clients can be heard and seen. I have a passion for helping others find healing and growth in their lives and in their relationships with others.
(562) 662-4783 View (562) 662-4783
Photo of Claudia Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Claudia Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pico Rivera, CA 90660  (Online Only)
To the outside world it seems as though you have it all together and for some of those things maybe you do, but there is still something missing? There is still a void that you keep trying to fill? You search for love and it just does not turn out how you thought? Maybe you have experienced trauma in your childhood and wonder if that has anything to do with why things are going the way they are now? As you continue through life, you still think about all the losses you have had, the loss of your childhood, the loss of a career, the loss of a loved one and are thinking "Seriously God?!" You just want to feel better & begin healing.
To the outside world it seems as though you have it all together and for some of those things maybe you do, but there is still something missing? There is still a void that you keep trying to fill? You search for love and it just does not turn out how you thought? Maybe you have experienced trauma in your childhood and wonder if that has anything to do with why things are going the way they are now? As you continue through life, you still think about all the losses you have had, the loss of your childhood, the loss of a career, the loss of a loved one and are thinking "Seriously God?!" You just want to feel better & begin healing.
(562) 265-3194 View (562) 265-3194
Photo of Michelle Kurtz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Michelle Kurtz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I have expertise in treating depression/anxiety disorders, addiction, grief/loss, infertility, trauma, and relationship conflicts.
Hello! I'm Michelle, My name is Michelle Kurtz and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Clovis, California. I am working with clients statewide via telehealth. I have such respect and admiration for my clients because seeking therapy is very courageous. My goal for your therapy journey is to develop a relationship where you can feel trust so that you can become your authentic self. I communicate in a soft and reflective tone. I try to make the therapeutic environment warm and safe. I want you to feel comfortable to express yourself authentically.
I have expertise in treating depression/anxiety disorders, addiction, grief/loss, infertility, trauma, and relationship conflicts.
Hello! I'm Michelle, My name is Michelle Kurtz and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Clovis, California. I am working with clients statewide via telehealth. I have such respect and admiration for my clients because seeking therapy is very courageous. My goal for your therapy journey is to develop a relationship where you can feel trust so that you can become your authentic self. I communicate in a soft and reflective tone. I try to make the therapeutic environment warm and safe. I want you to feel comfortable to express yourself authentically.
(818) 616-7268 View (818) 616-7268
Photo of Johnny Zhong (He Or They), Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Johnny Zhong (He Or They)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91007  (Online Only)
Johnny Zhong, Trained EMDR, Specialized in couple therapy. A compassionate therapist, specializes in TRAUMA, body dysmorphic disorder, anxiety, depression, OCD, life transitions, grief. With a client-centered approach, Johnny offers therapy to both adults and children. He integrates "MUSIC Therapy techniques" such as songwriting, lyric analysis, drumming, improvisation, and singing to explore and process emotions. In addition to these techniques, Johnny incorporates play therapy, sound therapy, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, DBT, and somatic therapy. This holistic treatment approach ensures comprehensive care for their clients.
Johnny Zhong, Trained EMDR, Specialized in couple therapy. A compassionate therapist, specializes in TRAUMA, body dysmorphic disorder, anxiety, depression, OCD, life transitions, grief. With a client-centered approach, Johnny offers therapy to both adults and children. He integrates "MUSIC Therapy techniques" such as songwriting, lyric analysis, drumming, improvisation, and singing to explore and process emotions. In addition to these techniques, Johnny incorporates play therapy, sound therapy, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, DBT, and somatic therapy. This holistic treatment approach ensures comprehensive care for their clients.
(707) 610-1094 View (707) 610-1094
Photo of Helen J. Kim, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Helen J. Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91106  (Online Only)
I believe the journey to healing starts with being fully known and accepted for who we are. I create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to feel invited, understood, and cared for. I help you increase your awareness and make connections to what has shaped you in the past, who you are today, and who you strive to be. My therapeutic approach is individualized and culturally sensitive, based on what you may need and the unique stories you bring. I have a deep heart and passion in working with individuals navigating through grief & loss, trauma, relationship challenges, and career exploration.
I believe the journey to healing starts with being fully known and accepted for who we are. I create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to feel invited, understood, and cared for. I help you increase your awareness and make connections to what has shaped you in the past, who you are today, and who you strive to be. My therapeutic approach is individualized and culturally sensitive, based on what you may need and the unique stories you bring. I have a deep heart and passion in working with individuals navigating through grief & loss, trauma, relationship challenges, and career exploration.
(626) 210-3904 View (626) 210-3904
Photo of Macy Ragole, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Macy Ragole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90095
Are you struggling with a major change in your life -maybe grief, a breakup, marriage, starting a new career- that affects your ability to feel authentically you? Do you feel overwhelmed by what it means to live up to other’s expectations of you? Do you wonder if your relationships could be better? Are you interested in exploring how your past is shaping your present? Now more than ever, young adults are feeling uncertain about how to live their lives authentically. Luckily, therapy can help with that. I start with a free consultation to mutually determine if I am the right therapist for you.
Are you struggling with a major change in your life -maybe grief, a breakup, marriage, starting a new career- that affects your ability to feel authentically you? Do you feel overwhelmed by what it means to live up to other’s expectations of you? Do you wonder if your relationships could be better? Are you interested in exploring how your past is shaping your present? Now more than ever, young adults are feeling uncertain about how to live their lives authentically. Luckily, therapy can help with that. I start with a free consultation to mutually determine if I am the right therapist for you.
(310) 868-0775 View (310) 868-0775
Photo of Theodora Blanchfield, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles County, CA
Theodora Blanchfield
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients managing depression, anxiety, grief & loss, and trauma.
Hi, thank you for being here! Working on your mental health is one of the bravest and most important things you can do for yourself. There are things in your life — from the present or, often, from the past — that might not feel great. These things can leak through —affecting your future. It takes courage to look what's not working in your life and make positive change. I want to support you in moving towards the life you want!
I specialize in working with clients managing depression, anxiety, grief & loss, and trauma.
Hi, thank you for being here! Working on your mental health is one of the bravest and most important things you can do for yourself. There are things in your life — from the present or, often, from the past — that might not feel great. These things can leak through —affecting your future. It takes courage to look what's not working in your life and make positive change. I want to support you in moving towards the life you want!
(424) 352-8371 View (424) 352-8371
Photo of Pamela Rice, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, 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 Dr. Antoinette Ibrahimi, Psychologist in Los Angeles County, CA
Dr. Antoinette Ibrahimi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91006  (Online Only)
I have an extensive background in treating the adjustment to chronic illness or, loss and grief, couples or relationship issues, end-of-life issues, infertility, pregnancy/infant/child loss, and life transitions.
Do you feel stuck or overwhelmed? Uncertain how to move forward? Coping with a chronic illness? Struggling with a loss in your life? Do you feel disconnected from your partner? Humaning is hard, therapy should not be. When we begin to understand ourselves better, life becomes much easier to journey through. We start to choose how we want to live instead of reacting to what life brings us. I am passionate about helping my clients find a solid sense of self, while staying emotionally connected with others. I strive to create a safe, genuine, supportive, and compassionate environment in which a lasting positive change can be made.
I have an extensive background in treating the adjustment to chronic illness or, loss and grief, couples or relationship issues, end-of-life issues, infertility, pregnancy/infant/child loss, and life transitions.
Do you feel stuck or overwhelmed? Uncertain how to move forward? Coping with a chronic illness? Struggling with a loss in your life? Do you feel disconnected from your partner? Humaning is hard, therapy should not be. When we begin to understand ourselves better, life becomes much easier to journey through. We start to choose how we want to live instead of reacting to what life brings us. I am passionate about helping my clients find a solid sense of self, while staying emotionally connected with others. I strive to create a safe, genuine, supportive, and compassionate environment in which a lasting positive change can be made.
(626) 702-3533 View (626) 702-3533
Photo of Maria Modesta Carmichael, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Maria Modesta Carmichael
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
Life is full of challenges that overwhelm us. It stops us in our tracks and we think "how did I get here?" Whether it is grief, fear, lack of motivation, excessive worrying, indecisiveness, poor choices, trauma, addiction, or relationship problems: therapy is a tool to help, if you are open and reach out. This is when you need someone who is genuine, safe, non-judgmental, caring, supportive, and redirects gently to help you decide the next steps in YOUR journey. In therapy, we will focus on healing, process past wounds, identify triggers, create healthy boundaries, explore solutions, and find the path that is right for you.
Life is full of challenges that overwhelm us. It stops us in our tracks and we think "how did I get here?" Whether it is grief, fear, lack of motivation, excessive worrying, indecisiveness, poor choices, trauma, addiction, or relationship problems: therapy is a tool to help, if you are open and reach out. This is when you need someone who is genuine, safe, non-judgmental, caring, supportive, and redirects gently to help you decide the next steps in YOUR journey. In therapy, we will focus on healing, process past wounds, identify triggers, create healthy boundaries, explore solutions, and find the path that is right for you.
(562) 362-3351 View (562) 362-3351
Photo of Maple Leaf Counseling, Psychologist in Los Angeles County, CA
Maple Leaf Counseling
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91006
It means learning skills to establish boundaries, navigating through periods of loss or life transitions, or breaking free from patterns of behavior that hinder movement.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you feel overwhelmed and anxious? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, individuals are experiencing high levels of anxiety, feeling overwhelmed, and uncertain, particularly in navigating the complexities of their relationships, careers, and overall life management. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it should not be so hard to live a better life. We understand that navigating life's challenges can be complex and we are here to guide you.
It means learning skills to establish boundaries, navigating through periods of loss or life transitions, or breaking free from patterns of behavior that hinder movement.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you feel overwhelmed and anxious? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, individuals are experiencing high levels of anxiety, feeling overwhelmed, and uncertain, particularly in navigating the complexities of their relationships, careers, and overall life management. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it should not be so hard to live a better life. We understand that navigating life's challenges can be complex and we are here to guide you.
(626) 876-3809 View (626) 876-3809

See more therapy options for Los Angeles County

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.