Therapists in Los Angeles County, CA

Photo of Shirl Kelemer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Shirl Kelemer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
Many clients come to me depressed, grief stricken, or at a loss for where to proceed in their lives. Faulty thinking can block the ability to realize new options for thoughts and behaviors. Training, wisdom, and life experiences allow me to help guide my clients to their best therapeutic path, to personalize treatment, and to help them find their purpose. I work with trauma survivors, people with disabilities, life transitions, crises, hospice care, death, and chronic anxiety. I'm also trained to support artists through their creative struggles. That process provides them the foundation to strengthen them for any future challenges.
Many clients come to me depressed, grief stricken, or at a loss for where to proceed in their lives. Faulty thinking can block the ability to realize new options for thoughts and behaviors. Training, wisdom, and life experiences allow me to help guide my clients to their best therapeutic path, to personalize treatment, and to help them find their purpose. I work with trauma survivors, people with disabilities, life transitions, crises, hospice care, death, and chronic anxiety. I'm also trained to support artists through their creative struggles. That process provides them the foundation to strengthen them for any future challenges.
(323) 621-3513 View (323) 621-3513
Photo of Meredith Vender, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Meredith Vender
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90039  (Online Only)
I am passionate about supporting clients through life's many challenges such as receiving a new medical diagnosis, coping with a chronic illness, shifting to a caregiver role or grieving the death of a loved one. My practice offers a safe and affirming therapeutic space to learn and grow. I tailor treatment using a variety of techniques and view our time together as a shared endeavor to help you achieve your goals. I am skilled in navigating the complex medical system and can help foster collaboration and communication with your medical treatment team. As a Certified Case Manager I can also assist with healthcare-related documents.
I am passionate about supporting clients through life's many challenges such as receiving a new medical diagnosis, coping with a chronic illness, shifting to a caregiver role or grieving the death of a loved one. My practice offers a safe and affirming therapeutic space to learn and grow. I tailor treatment using a variety of techniques and view our time together as a shared endeavor to help you achieve your goals. I am skilled in navigating the complex medical system and can help foster collaboration and communication with your medical treatment team. As a Certified Case Manager I can also assist with healthcare-related documents.
(310) 455-8405 View (310) 455-8405
Photo of Ilana Bar-Din Giannini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Ilana Bar-Din Giannini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
My emphasis is on women and their empowerment, whether in relation to trauma or loss, to job-related struggles and Me Too experiences, or because of the challenges of aging and loss.
I came to the practice of psychotherapy because I believe life's crises, however painful, also provide opportunities for profound change and growth. Therapy should be a safe space for patients to assess what is meaningful and what has been outgrown, what has been lost and what can be gained by working through that loss. Many of my clients work (or play) in the arts; many are trauma survivors. I run a weekly trauma group for women with PTSD. I am an empty nester and particularly interested in women dealing the changes that come with aging - women facing the "third act" of their lives.
My emphasis is on women and their empowerment, whether in relation to trauma or loss, to job-related struggles and Me Too experiences, or because of the challenges of aging and loss.
I came to the practice of psychotherapy because I believe life's crises, however painful, also provide opportunities for profound change and growth. Therapy should be a safe space for patients to assess what is meaningful and what has been outgrown, what has been lost and what can be gained by working through that loss. Many of my clients work (or play) in the arts; many are trauma survivors. I run a weekly trauma group for women with PTSD. I am an empty nester and particularly interested in women dealing the changes that come with aging - women facing the "third act" of their lives.
(310) 254-2353 View (310) 254-2353
Photo of Marsha Goldman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Marsha Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804  (Online Only)
I have a special interest in supporting clients who are experiencing grief and loss, life transitions, and women's issues.
Hello and welcome! I'm Marsha, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Congratulations on having the courage to reach out for your own well-being. Taking that first step is the beginning of a healing and expansive journey. I provide a safe space in which to explore your reasons for seeking therapy and to help bring out the strengths and resources that already exist inside of you, as well as offer tools for growth, to further your own life satisfaction. I bring a compassionate and non-judgmental presence, attention to the whole person - body/mind/spirit, use of the arts for healing, and my own experience across the life stages.
I have a special interest in supporting clients who are experiencing grief and loss, life transitions, and women's issues.
Hello and welcome! I'm Marsha, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Congratulations on having the courage to reach out for your own well-being. Taking that first step is the beginning of a healing and expansive journey. I provide a safe space in which to explore your reasons for seeking therapy and to help bring out the strengths and resources that already exist inside of you, as well as offer tools for growth, to further your own life satisfaction. I bring a compassionate and non-judgmental presence, attention to the whole person - body/mind/spirit, use of the arts for healing, and my own experience across the life stages.
(562) 278-8116 View (562) 278-8116
Photo of Lauren J Auerbach, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Lauren J Auerbach
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91506  (Online Only)
Does anxiety, fear, sadness, grief, confusion, helplessness, anger, or shame overwhelm you? Maybe a recent loss or previous trauma affects the way you are coping. Perhaps you struggle to navigate your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, or relationships. Let me help you find meaning, patterns, and ultimately relief, with compassion, insight, and tools to heal. Through this process, I hope you will find a greater sense of calm, clarity, and agency.
Does anxiety, fear, sadness, grief, confusion, helplessness, anger, or shame overwhelm you? Maybe a recent loss or previous trauma affects the way you are coping. Perhaps you struggle to navigate your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, or relationships. Let me help you find meaning, patterns, and ultimately relief, with compassion, insight, and tools to heal. Through this process, I hope you will find a greater sense of calm, clarity, and agency.
(323) 775-9882 View (323) 775-9882
Photo of Lesleigh Joan Tolin in Los Angeles County, CA
Lesleigh Joan Tolin
MS, AGRMS
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
Recovering from grief allows each of us to find hope, strength and courage in our darkest moments.
It's 3AM and you're wide awake – sleepless with that aching emptiness inside. Your heart is pounding and you can feel it in your throat. You're longing for someone to tell you what to do about your broken heart.All you can think about is the fact that your loved one is gone. Completely overwhelmed with sadness and fear, wandering from room to vacant room, you wonder when your heartache will ever end. It’s been impossible to focus. Friends sometimes say things that make no sense: “Just give it time.” “Keep busy, you'll get through this..." One friend, post your break up, said: "You'll meet someone better." What?!!? Your heart aches.
Recovering from grief allows each of us to find hope, strength and courage in our darkest moments.
It's 3AM and you're wide awake – sleepless with that aching emptiness inside. Your heart is pounding and you can feel it in your throat. You're longing for someone to tell you what to do about your broken heart.All you can think about is the fact that your loved one is gone. Completely overwhelmed with sadness and fear, wandering from room to vacant room, you wonder when your heartache will ever end. It’s been impossible to focus. Friends sometimes say things that make no sense: “Just give it time.” “Keep busy, you'll get through this..." One friend, post your break up, said: "You'll meet someone better." What?!!? Your heart aches.
(747) 298-5156 View (747) 298-5156
Photo of Briana Perlson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Briana Perlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
I am certified in EMDR and specialize in working with Adults and Children who have experienced trauma, stress, anxiety, grief, etc. I help clients find their inner resilience and learn healthy coping skills and distress tolerance. I work from a trauma-informed and somatic lens in order to address what is going on within the body, brain, and spirit. I utilize EMDR and somatic psychotherapies such as trauma-informed mindfulness, breath work, sound, yoga, and reiki. I offer EMDR intensives (anywhere from 3 to 6 hours) for those who don't have time to come to therapy weekly and/or want to work through their symptoms at a faster pace.
I am certified in EMDR and specialize in working with Adults and Children who have experienced trauma, stress, anxiety, grief, etc. I help clients find their inner resilience and learn healthy coping skills and distress tolerance. I work from a trauma-informed and somatic lens in order to address what is going on within the body, brain, and spirit. I utilize EMDR and somatic psychotherapies such as trauma-informed mindfulness, breath work, sound, yoga, and reiki. I offer EMDR intensives (anywhere from 3 to 6 hours) for those who don't have time to come to therapy weekly and/or want to work through their symptoms at a faster pace.
(805) 515-3545 View (805) 515-3545
Photo of Savannah Hoffman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Savannah Hoffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients: adults ages 18+. Psychotherapy is an endeavor that can feel uncomfortable at times, but together we can work to troubleshoot your "hang-ups" and insecurities to smooth out your path ahead. I want to work with you on your gravitational pull towards relationships that end up causing you pain; on your grief and anxiety over feeling like you've dug yourself into an insurmountable hole; on your feelings of frustration with life and self-sabotage. Bring it to me and let's talk about it.
Currently accepting new clients: adults ages 18+. Psychotherapy is an endeavor that can feel uncomfortable at times, but together we can work to troubleshoot your "hang-ups" and insecurities to smooth out your path ahead. I want to work with you on your gravitational pull towards relationships that end up causing you pain; on your grief and anxiety over feeling like you've dug yourself into an insurmountable hole; on your feelings of frustration with life and self-sabotage. Bring it to me and let's talk about it.
(323) 443-3877 View (323) 443-3877
Photo of Judy Goldman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Judy Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hi, I am Judy Goldman a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California with over 25 years’ experience in the mental health field. I specialize in life transitions which include loss, grief, adoption, families, children, adolescents, and adults presenting with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety. Loss is not always obvious and can show up in so many aspects of our life. My approach to therapy is eclectic, incorporating elements of person-centered allowing the client to take more the lead in their sessions and in the process, to find their own solutions.
Hi, I am Judy Goldman a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California with over 25 years’ experience in the mental health field. I specialize in life transitions which include loss, grief, adoption, families, children, adolescents, and adults presenting with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety. Loss is not always obvious and can show up in so many aspects of our life. My approach to therapy is eclectic, incorporating elements of person-centered allowing the client to take more the lead in their sessions and in the process, to find their own solutions.
(626) 508-1423 View (626) 508-1423
Photo of Jennifer Esfandi, Psychologist in Los Angeles County, CA
Jennifer Esfandi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I have the privilege of helping people facing difficult periods in their lives. I help clients navigate stress, anxiety, life transitions, and loss that is getting in the way of feeling at ease and living the life they really want.
I have the privilege of helping people facing difficult periods in their lives. I help clients navigate stress, anxiety, life transitions, and loss that is getting in the way of feeling at ease and living the life they really want.
(424) 221-8694 View (424) 221-8694
Photo of Fay Alon, Psychologist in Los Angeles County, CA
Fay Alon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services from therapy for depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling, etc.
My name is Fay Alon and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist. I have been practicing for over 20 years. I'm able to connect, understand and empathize with mostly anyone. I'm caring, compassionate, direct and non-judgmental. I completed my pre-doctoral internship at the UCLA Student Psychological Services. My post-doctoral fellowship was at Harbor UCLA-Medical Center. I worked for eight years as a psychologist at UCLA. I have been in private practice in Santa Monica, Woodland Hills and now in Calabasas. Please call or email me for an individual, couples or family therapy consultation today.
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services from therapy for depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling, etc.
My name is Fay Alon and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist. I have been practicing for over 20 years. I'm able to connect, understand and empathize with mostly anyone. I'm caring, compassionate, direct and non-judgmental. I completed my pre-doctoral internship at the UCLA Student Psychological Services. My post-doctoral fellowship was at Harbor UCLA-Medical Center. I worked for eight years as a psychologist at UCLA. I have been in private practice in Santa Monica, Woodland Hills and now in Calabasas. Please call or email me for an individual, couples or family therapy consultation today.
(818) 614-9391 View (818) 614-9391
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 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 Jena Moch, Pre-Licensed Professional in Los Angeles County, CA
Jena Moch
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Are you experiencing a big life transition? Have you experienced a loss? Or maybe just need a little extra support and guidance? As your therapist, I will approach challenges with an open mind and seek to meet you where you are at. My hope is for clients to walk away from sessions feeling heard and seen. I became a therapist to be able to provide a safe space for individuals to process life’s twists and turns in addition to helping clients find their inner truths. Clients like you find me to be warm, authentic and supportive.
Are you experiencing a big life transition? Have you experienced a loss? Or maybe just need a little extra support and guidance? As your therapist, I will approach challenges with an open mind and seek to meet you where you are at. My hope is for clients to walk away from sessions feeling heard and seen. I became a therapist to be able to provide a safe space for individuals to process life’s twists and turns in addition to helping clients find their inner truths. Clients like you find me to be warm, authentic and supportive.
(818) 938-8513 View (818) 938-8513
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 Soraya Wilder, Counselor in Los Angeles County, CA
Soraya Wilder
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302
My focus areas include Relationship Issues, Teen Issues, Life Transitions, Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Women’s Issues, Sexual Dysfunction, Sexuality, ADHD Coaching, Parenting Coaching, and Chronic Pain.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, questioning your life, and finding it difficult to complete daily tasks at work or home? Is depression or anxiety impacting your quality of life? Do you feel stuck, frustrated, anxious, empty, or hopeless? Are you dealing with decreased motivation, increased isolation, changes in appetite, or sleep issues? Additionally, are you struggling with grief, chronic illness, ADHD, relationship challenges, or life transitions?
My focus areas include Relationship Issues, Teen Issues, Life Transitions, Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Women’s Issues, Sexual Dysfunction, Sexuality, ADHD Coaching, Parenting Coaching, and Chronic Pain.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, questioning your life, and finding it difficult to complete daily tasks at work or home? Is depression or anxiety impacting your quality of life? Do you feel stuck, frustrated, anxious, empty, or hopeless? Are you dealing with decreased motivation, increased isolation, changes in appetite, or sleep issues? Additionally, are you struggling with grief, chronic illness, ADHD, relationship challenges, or life transitions?
(747) 302-2541 View (747) 302-2541
Photo of Talia Mann, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles County, CA
Talia Mann
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90069  (Online Only)
Finding the right therapist is challenging and taking the first step can be really scary. While I believe the mind and body are built to heal themselves, sometimes recovery is hard to navigate on your own. I utilize a variety of treatment models including Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.) I specialize in eating disorders, grief, and loss, anxiety, depression, addiction, and trauma-related issues. I primarily work with adolescents, couples, and adults. I'm a weight-inclusive, Health At Every Size, and an Intuitive Eating-aligned clinician.
Finding the right therapist is challenging and taking the first step can be really scary. While I believe the mind and body are built to heal themselves, sometimes recovery is hard to navigate on your own. I utilize a variety of treatment models including Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.) I specialize in eating disorders, grief, and loss, anxiety, depression, addiction, and trauma-related issues. I primarily work with adolescents, couples, and adults. I'm a weight-inclusive, Health At Every Size, and an Intuitive Eating-aligned clinician.
(323) 940-5441 View (323) 940-5441
Photo of Karen Kessler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Karen Kessler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064  (Online Only)
Hello. I'm Karen Kessler, a seasoned and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of comprehensive clinical experience. My background includes working in diverse inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, which has provided me with a solid foundation for addressing issues such as aging, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, life transitions, caregiver stress, work-life balance, self-esteem, stress management, and relationship challenges.
Hello. I'm Karen Kessler, a seasoned and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of comprehensive clinical experience. My background includes working in diverse inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, which has provided me with a solid foundation for addressing issues such as aging, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, life transitions, caregiver stress, work-life balance, self-esteem, stress management, and relationship challenges.
(657) 571-7130 View (657) 571-7130
Photo of Renee Schwartz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Renee Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I've had specialized post-masters and post-doctoral training in the following areas: child and adolescent psychotherapy and accompanying parent work; loss and grief support; and pre and post-divorce counseling.
In my 30+ years of experience, I have tried to create a non-judgmental environment of openness and collaboration with my clients. I have found that most people are looking for understanding, clarification and a path to hope and healing.
I've had specialized post-masters and post-doctoral training in the following areas: child and adolescent psychotherapy and accompanying parent work; loss and grief support; and pre and post-divorce counseling.
In my 30+ years of experience, I have tried to create a non-judgmental environment of openness and collaboration with my clients. I have found that most people are looking for understanding, clarification and a path to hope and healing.
(424) 387-3831 View (424) 387-3831
Photo of Mordechai (Motti) Polityko, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Mordechai (Motti) Polityko
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
My experience with overcoming adversity, loss, and trauma makes me singularly attuned to the suffering of others.
Serenity, Equanimity, Peace of Mind. Are these qualities sorely missing from your life? You are not alone. Most Westerners experience rushed living, lack of acceptance, anxious and depressed mood - what inevitably amounts to suffering. While pain is a universal experience, with practice suffering can become optional. But lack of skill, low motivation, and general haggardness of life prevent many from consistent self-care which can alleviate suffering. If this is your story, The Serenity Center was opened with you in mind. Reducing suffering to manageable levels is an achievable goal - and all you may need is a skillful guide.
My experience with overcoming adversity, loss, and trauma makes me singularly attuned to the suffering of others.
Serenity, Equanimity, Peace of Mind. Are these qualities sorely missing from your life? You are not alone. Most Westerners experience rushed living, lack of acceptance, anxious and depressed mood - what inevitably amounts to suffering. While pain is a universal experience, with practice suffering can become optional. But lack of skill, low motivation, and general haggardness of life prevent many from consistent self-care which can alleviate suffering. If this is your story, The Serenity Center was opened with you in mind. Reducing suffering to manageable levels is an achievable goal - and all you may need is a skillful guide.
(323) 615-3208 View (323) 615-3208

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.