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 Joanna Marroquin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Joanna Marroquin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016  (Online Only)
These transitions can be related to various factors such as family or living dynamics, parenthood, culture, grief and loss, relationships, identity, or medical diagnosis.
Hi, my name is Joanna Marroquin. I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Southern California. It is my privilege to have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of community settings for the past 10 years. I am passionate about supporting individuals in their personal growth and healing journey to become the best version of themselves. As your therapist, I hope to be able to hold space through the difficult times and celebrate the accomplishments through a psychodynamic and collaborative approach.
These transitions can be related to various factors such as family or living dynamics, parenthood, culture, grief and loss, relationships, identity, or medical diagnosis.
Hi, my name is Joanna Marroquin. I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Southern California. It is my privilege to have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of community settings for the past 10 years. I am passionate about supporting individuals in their personal growth and healing journey to become the best version of themselves. As your therapist, I hope to be able to hold space through the difficult times and celebrate the accomplishments through a psychodynamic and collaborative approach.
(626) 329-4529 View (626) 329-4529
Photo of Sarah Beaver, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles County, CA
Sarah Beaver
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
I work with a wide variety of issues and themes, but I am particularly drawn to those exploring anxiety, grief, life transitions, and identity.
You made it here, which means you've decided to take a step toward improving and nurturing your mental health - amazing! No matter what you are seeking therapy for, it's a tough thing to tackle. As your mental health provider, I aim to create a nonjudgemental, safe space for you to explore your life experiences, challenges, and goals. I believe that the therapeutic process is relational and ever-evolving. Just as we are our own worst enemies, we are also our biggest allies, and I am here to help you strengthen that alliance with yourself.
I work with a wide variety of issues and themes, but I am particularly drawn to those exploring anxiety, grief, life transitions, and identity.
You made it here, which means you've decided to take a step toward improving and nurturing your mental health - amazing! No matter what you are seeking therapy for, it's a tough thing to tackle. As your mental health provider, I aim to create a nonjudgemental, safe space for you to explore your life experiences, challenges, and goals. I believe that the therapeutic process is relational and ever-evolving. Just as we are our own worst enemies, we are also our biggest allies, and I am here to help you strengthen that alliance with yourself.
(626) 772-6299 View (626) 772-6299
Photo of Paul Thomas Brogan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Paul Thomas Brogan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
A personal crisis is a critical moment in a person's life, and seeking help can be very difficult, especially for men! As your "guide on the side," I have particular interest in serving people coping with depression, anxiety, stress, anger management, grief, relationship problems, and substance abuse.
A personal crisis is a critical moment in a person's life, and seeking help can be very difficult, especially for men! As your "guide on the side," I have particular interest in serving people coping with depression, anxiety, stress, anger management, grief, relationship problems, and substance abuse.
(818) 918-3679 View (818) 918-3679
Photo of Tiffany A Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Tiffany A Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90008
The demands of today often have folks feeling lost, confused, overwhelmed, and stuck. How does one perform well, manage your relationships, and take care of oneself? Do you need help with coping strategies to regulate the stress associated with family, trauma, relationships, and social pressures? Are you feeling disconnected from yourself or lost? Not feeling worthy? Are you in search of someone to help you get out of the darkness and lift the weight you're experiencing from loss, new transitions, your past, or relationships? Let's connect to help you connect with yourself & your strengths.
The demands of today often have folks feeling lost, confused, overwhelmed, and stuck. How does one perform well, manage your relationships, and take care of oneself? Do you need help with coping strategies to regulate the stress associated with family, trauma, relationships, and social pressures? Are you feeling disconnected from yourself or lost? Not feeling worthy? Are you in search of someone to help you get out of the darkness and lift the weight you're experiencing from loss, new transitions, your past, or relationships? Let's connect to help you connect with yourself & your strengths.
(424) 704-9525 View (424) 704-9525
Photo of Chelsy Duffer-Dunbar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Chelsy Duffer-Dunbar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90501  (Online Only)
Hi there! I'm Chelsy. As a Licensed Therapist, I strive to build the confidence and sense of empowerment in the women I work with. Also as a mother of two, I know that navigating life during pregnancy, times of loss, and as a new parent can be challenging and leave you feeling overwhelmed. I am here to support and guide you through this time of transition and will help you adjust to your new normal. Together, we will celebrate the joy you experience and honor the hardship of your parenthood and womanhood journey.
Hi there! I'm Chelsy. As a Licensed Therapist, I strive to build the confidence and sense of empowerment in the women I work with. Also as a mother of two, I know that navigating life during pregnancy, times of loss, and as a new parent can be challenging and leave you feeling overwhelmed. I am here to support and guide you through this time of transition and will help you adjust to your new normal. Together, we will celebrate the joy you experience and honor the hardship of your parenthood and womanhood journey.
(424) 304-1812 View (424) 304-1812
Photo of Crystal Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Crystal Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winnetka, CA 91303
Hello, my name is Crystal Harris and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California, (license 101995). I received my Master's in Social Work from Denver University and have spent most of my career in the medical field working with the chronically ill, dying, and grieving. My work provides me the opportunity to utilize mindfulness for stress reduction, cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive psychotherapy, life review, and grief and trauma support. My assessment includes physical, emotional, and existential health.
Hello, my name is Crystal Harris and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California, (license 101995). I received my Master's in Social Work from Denver University and have spent most of my career in the medical field working with the chronically ill, dying, and grieving. My work provides me the opportunity to utilize mindfulness for stress reduction, cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive psychotherapy, life review, and grief and trauma support. My assessment includes physical, emotional, and existential health.
(747) 285-7682 View (747) 285-7682
Photo of Joan Hasibar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Joan Hasibar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91106
Waitlist for new clients
Through therapy, clients rebuild, balance, and strengthen from PTSD, trauma, grief, loss, anxiety, and/or depression.
Are you feeling stuck, numb, or tired all the time? Are you having trouble focusing - on your work, family and friends, your partner, or even YOURSELF? Do you experience anger, guilt, sadness, or hopelessness? Would you like to find a way to overcome this but don't know where to begin? I believe through exploration there can be freedom, from fear, guilt, shame, doubt, and uncertainty. As with all explorations, I will be your guide to walk with you through the frustration, pain, and confusion. Regardless of what we find, I will be committed to doing it with you.
Through therapy, clients rebuild, balance, and strengthen from PTSD, trauma, grief, loss, anxiety, and/or depression.
Are you feeling stuck, numb, or tired all the time? Are you having trouble focusing - on your work, family and friends, your partner, or even YOURSELF? Do you experience anger, guilt, sadness, or hopelessness? Would you like to find a way to overcome this but don't know where to begin? I believe through exploration there can be freedom, from fear, guilt, shame, doubt, and uncertainty. As with all explorations, I will be your guide to walk with you through the frustration, pain, and confusion. Regardless of what we find, I will be committed to doing it with you.
(323) 694-2024 View (323) 694-2024
Photo of Sose Yapudzhian, Pre-Licensed Professional in Los Angeles County, CA
Sose Yapudzhian
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sylmar, CA 91342  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with trauma, grief, or loss? As a first-generation Armenian-American from an immigrant family, I understand the unique challenges that come with navigating relationships, family, and work while carrying around the complexities of intergenerational trauma. Grief and loss can take many forms, and not all are widely recognized or supported by society. This is called disenfranchised grief, the type of grieving that can leave you believing you are alone, but the truth is that you are not.
Are you struggling with trauma, grief, or loss? As a first-generation Armenian-American from an immigrant family, I understand the unique challenges that come with navigating relationships, family, and work while carrying around the complexities of intergenerational trauma. Grief and loss can take many forms, and not all are widely recognized or supported by society. This is called disenfranchised grief, the type of grieving that can leave you believing you are alone, but the truth is that you are not.
(818) 210-3090 View (818) 210-3090
Photo of Patrick Kelly, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Patrick Kelly
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90009  (Online Only)
If you feel stuck, in crisis, seeking career or life changes, depressed, dealing with grief & loss, I can assist you on your journey to a more inner and outer peaceful place.
Welcome to my web page on Psychology Today! I am glad you found me. With so many counselors on this site it can feel overwhelming to decide on a counselor to help you with your current issues. My suggestion is to relax, most of the counselors here can assist you on your journey and if you really connect well with a counselor, you will be able to do deep, meaningful work together. Whether this is your first time in counseling or you are experienced, I am confident I can assist you on your journey.
If you feel stuck, in crisis, seeking career or life changes, depressed, dealing with grief & loss, I can assist you on your journey to a more inner and outer peaceful place.
Welcome to my web page on Psychology Today! I am glad you found me. With so many counselors on this site it can feel overwhelming to decide on a counselor to help you with your current issues. My suggestion is to relax, most of the counselors here can assist you on your journey and if you really connect well with a counselor, you will be able to do deep, meaningful work together. Whether this is your first time in counseling or you are experienced, I am confident I can assist you on your journey.
(310) 947-8912 View (310) 947-8912
Photo of Maria Avitia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Maria Avitia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034
Hello, my name is Maria G. Avitia, LCSW License 120538. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, CA and I work with clients via telehealth. I work with adults and elderly population. I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and stress using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I have found my style and approach is a good fit for Adults and Elderly population. I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress and grief/loss. I work to help clients navigate their concerns and allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook in life.
Hello, my name is Maria G. Avitia, LCSW License 120538. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, CA and I work with clients via telehealth. I work with adults and elderly population. I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and stress using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I have found my style and approach is a good fit for Adults and Elderly population. I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress and grief/loss. I work to help clients navigate their concerns and allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook in life.
(424) 378-4037 View (424) 378-4037
Photo of Jacquie Pershing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Jacquie Pershing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91321  (Online Only)
Together, we can navigate the storms and celebrate the rainbows that await on the other side. Whether you are experiencing the loss of a loved one, going through a significant life change, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of daily life, I am here to support you. I bring professional expertise and understanding from my own lived experiences. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly.
Together, we can navigate the storms and celebrate the rainbows that await on the other side. Whether you are experiencing the loss of a loved one, going through a significant life change, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of daily life, I am here to support you. I bring professional expertise and understanding from my own lived experiences. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly.
(661) 760-7573 View (661) 760-7573
Photo of Suzanne Holmes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Suzanne Holmes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
I currently work with individuals, couples, teens and families with issues including: Depression, Anxiety, Stress Adjustment problems, Grief and Loss, Couples issues, Substance use, Adolescent issues and Parent-Child Relationships I also have experience facilitating groups including: parenting skill building, youth creative expression, addiction support in recovery, and anger management.
Are you struggling with your emotions or relationships? I am here to help you find strength, resiliency, hope and solutions. I feel the goal of therapy is cultivating the self-confidence and compassion that is needed to help cope with all the uncertainties and difficulties in life. Can we be curious instead of judgmental as daily moments occur? The therapeutic alliance between client and therapist strengthens the integration of body, mind, and spirit, leading not only to a focus on personal healing, but on achieving greater well-being, peace, and passion for life.
I currently work with individuals, couples, teens and families with issues including: Depression, Anxiety, Stress Adjustment problems, Grief and Loss, Couples issues, Substance use, Adolescent issues and Parent-Child Relationships I also have experience facilitating groups including: parenting skill building, youth creative expression, addiction support in recovery, and anger management.
Are you struggling with your emotions or relationships? I am here to help you find strength, resiliency, hope and solutions. I feel the goal of therapy is cultivating the self-confidence and compassion that is needed to help cope with all the uncertainties and difficulties in life. Can we be curious instead of judgmental as daily moments occur? The therapeutic alliance between client and therapist strengthens the integration of body, mind, and spirit, leading not only to a focus on personal healing, but on achieving greater well-being, peace, and passion for life.
(818) 293-0243 View (818) 293-0243
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 Lisa Chester-Schyman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Lisa Chester-Schyman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
As a trained grief specialist, I specialize in grief and loss work with adults, teens and adolescents.
I provide a safe and compassionate environment to support you in your life journey and its many challenges. Through our work together you will develop a deeper understanding of yourself, which will allow you to navigate the murky waters of life, manage transitions, and live a life filled with meaning. Together we will explore your true nature and I will support you to find more comfort in your life by teaching you tools to overcome obstacles to your emotional well-being. Our collaboration will allow you to move through the more challenging times in your life with a greater sense of ease. I work with adults, teens, and adolescents.
As a trained grief specialist, I specialize in grief and loss work with adults, teens and adolescents.
I provide a safe and compassionate environment to support you in your life journey and its many challenges. Through our work together you will develop a deeper understanding of yourself, which will allow you to navigate the murky waters of life, manage transitions, and live a life filled with meaning. Together we will explore your true nature and I will support you to find more comfort in your life by teaching you tools to overcome obstacles to your emotional well-being. Our collaboration will allow you to move through the more challenging times in your life with a greater sense of ease. I work with adults, teens, and adolescents.
(424) 532-8592 View (424) 532-8592
Photo of Judi Brooks, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Judi Brooks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BICM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505
I work in private practice, school settings, ​and non-traditional environments so that the relationship in therapy thrives; giving the individuals involved the best opportunity for growth using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). With 25+ years specializing in family needs and individuals experiencing grief, anxiety, depression or relationship difficulties, I serve as a guide in developing​ the skills & knowledge to better navigate the daily challenges of life and the unusual circumstances that arise. Building Mental Health and maintaining it is a very high priority in developing​ long term satisfaction.
I work in private practice, school settings, ​and non-traditional environments so that the relationship in therapy thrives; giving the individuals involved the best opportunity for growth using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). With 25+ years specializing in family needs and individuals experiencing grief, anxiety, depression or relationship difficulties, I serve as a guide in developing​ the skills & knowledge to better navigate the daily challenges of life and the unusual circumstances that arise. Building Mental Health and maintaining it is a very high priority in developing​ long term satisfaction.
(818) 446-1941 View (818) 446-1941
Photo of Park LA Psychotherapy, Psychologist in Los Angeles County, CA
Park LA Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90057
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Healing from past trauma? Going through grief? Seeking better work life balance? Searching for direction and meaning in life? There are many reasons to seek psychotherapy. Seeking therapy is a brave step: choosing to face your challenges head on, opening up about past conflicts and traumas, bringing up difficult memories and feelings, making life changes in the face of uncertainty, and so forth. In therapy, we work together to develop insight, self-compassion, resiliency, emotional relief, and self-agency, among other strengths, in service of a more fulfilling and congruent life.
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Healing from past trauma? Going through grief? Seeking better work life balance? Searching for direction and meaning in life? There are many reasons to seek psychotherapy. Seeking therapy is a brave step: choosing to face your challenges head on, opening up about past conflicts and traumas, bringing up difficult memories and feelings, making life changes in the face of uncertainty, and so forth. In therapy, we work together to develop insight, self-compassion, resiliency, emotional relief, and self-agency, among other strengths, in service of a more fulfilling and congruent life.
(213) 787-7838 View (213) 787-7838
Photo of Wendy S. Schmelzer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Wendy S. Schmelzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Late life is often a dynamic time and one of transition. For many older adults, it is fraught with illness, loss and emotional and physical challenge. But it can also be a time of enormous potential. With fewer obligations, long time personal goals can finally be realized and difficult family relationships repaired and healed. Evidence suggests that it's possible to make change at any stage of life. Together through the collaborative process of psychotherapy, we will work towards your goals using an integrated approach that includes psychodynamic, cognitive, behavioral, and solution focused strategies.
Late life is often a dynamic time and one of transition. For many older adults, it is fraught with illness, loss and emotional and physical challenge. But it can also be a time of enormous potential. With fewer obligations, long time personal goals can finally be realized and difficult family relationships repaired and healed. Evidence suggests that it's possible to make change at any stage of life. Together through the collaborative process of psychotherapy, we will work towards your goals using an integrated approach that includes psychodynamic, cognitive, behavioral, and solution focused strategies.
(310) 945-2905 View (310) 945-2905
Photo of Aibina Jankly, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Aibina Jankly
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91206  (Online Only)
These practices are targeting depression, anxiety, grief and loss, codependency, trauma & PTSD, immigration, relationship issues, and many others.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who has worked extensively with individuals, couples, and families. My approach to psychotherapy is to provide a safe space that is empathic, genuine, and collaborative which leads to growth and a fulfilling life. There are moments when problems exist, and we all may struggle at times to manage the difficulties. I also believe that every individual has strengths to overcome obstacles. My role, as your therapist, is to walk alongside you on your journey of growth and help you discover your inner strengths and power to live a fulfilling life.
These practices are targeting depression, anxiety, grief and loss, codependency, trauma & PTSD, immigration, relationship issues, and many others.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who has worked extensively with individuals, couples, and families. My approach to psychotherapy is to provide a safe space that is empathic, genuine, and collaborative which leads to growth and a fulfilling life. There are moments when problems exist, and we all may struggle at times to manage the difficulties. I also believe that every individual has strengths to overcome obstacles. My role, as your therapist, is to walk alongside you on your journey of growth and help you discover your inner strengths and power to live a fulfilling life.
(747) 231-3280 View (747) 231-3280
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

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.