Grief Therapists in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Laura Bloomberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Laura Bloomberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
Sometimes, life can be a bit daunting. Between big life decisions, tragedies, and even days when nothing seems to go right, it's easy to get down, anxious, and feel overwhelmed. I work with adults and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, life's transitions, or need a space of their own to share openly free from bias or judgement.
Sometimes, life can be a bit daunting. Between big life decisions, tragedies, and even days when nothing seems to go right, it's easy to get down, anxious, and feel overwhelmed. I work with adults and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, life's transitions, or need a space of their own to share openly free from bias or judgement.
(424) 955-4709 View (424) 955-4709
Photo of Lisa V Craig, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Lisa V Craig
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
Some of the specific issues or struggles that I have additional training and experience in include grief recovery for children through adults, pre-marital counseling for couples, couples counseling, and family of origin issues for young adults that result in anxiety, depression, and difficulty in establishing healthy relationships.
Welcome to my page! I imagine you are here because some form of pain, frustration or feeling stuck has caught your attention and you are ready to try something different. I am a licensed MFT who would like to come alongside you in this part of your journey toward change...recovery, healing, wholeness, peace. We will explore what is troubling you emotionally, relationally, spiritually, or professionally. We will sort out what you have already tried, how you understand your "problem" and discover the "invitation" to understand, practice or learn something different. Welcome to your own laboratory for personal growth and healing.
Some of the specific issues or struggles that I have additional training and experience in include grief recovery for children through adults, pre-marital counseling for couples, couples counseling, and family of origin issues for young adults that result in anxiety, depression, and difficulty in establishing healthy relationships.
Welcome to my page! I imagine you are here because some form of pain, frustration or feeling stuck has caught your attention and you are ready to try something different. I am a licensed MFT who would like to come alongside you in this part of your journey toward change...recovery, healing, wholeness, peace. We will explore what is troubling you emotionally, relationally, spiritually, or professionally. We will sort out what you have already tried, how you understand your "problem" and discover the "invitation" to understand, practice or learn something different. Welcome to your own laboratory for personal growth and healing.
(424) 324-3439 View (424) 324-3439
Elaine Kaback
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
Hello Reader.......If you are experiencing issues with relationship changes, loss, transition/stress, anxiety, continuing sadness and lack of energy, I would like to work with you to understand, clarify, and begin a change process to provide a way out of feeling "stuck" and helpless. I look forward to talking with you to address your needs and concerns. Our goal? Build your strengths and confidence to get your self moving in the directions of satisfaction and security.
Hello Reader.......If you are experiencing issues with relationship changes, loss, transition/stress, anxiety, continuing sadness and lack of energy, I would like to work with you to understand, clarify, and begin a change process to provide a way out of feeling "stuck" and helpless. I look forward to talking with you to address your needs and concerns. Our goal? Build your strengths and confidence to get your self moving in the directions of satisfaction and security.
(310) 878-2574 View (310) 878-2574
Photo of Kristin Kolster, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Kristin Kolster
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I find meaning and fulfillment in working with those who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, attachment wounds, and relationship issues. I am an Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR) and Reprocessing trained therapist and I use EMDR to treat trauma. Trauma comes in multiple forms; single episode, multiple, or cumulative relational trauma. I strongly believe that our psyche is wired for healing and growth, and it is an honor to be part of my client’s transformative journey.
I find meaning and fulfillment in working with those who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, attachment wounds, and relationship issues. I am an Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR) and Reprocessing trained therapist and I use EMDR to treat trauma. Trauma comes in multiple forms; single episode, multiple, or cumulative relational trauma. I strongly believe that our psyche is wired for healing and growth, and it is an honor to be part of my client’s transformative journey.
(424) 408-1714 View (424) 408-1714
Photo of Crystal Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Crystal Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
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 Karen Macklin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Karen Macklin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFA, AMFT, APCC, Coach
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
I support folks through transition and loss, questions around identity, navigating a new or chronic illness, and communication & relationship challenges.
Are you at a crossroads in your life or relationship(s)? I work with dynamic individuals, couples, and family pairs who feel lost and want to find their way back to clarity & connection. I'm an East-West combo, bringing a mix of soulful mindfulness practice + practicality + creative exploration to the therapy space. I support big thinkers and feelers, including creatives, artists, scientists, healers, dreamers, sensitive people, queer, and/or neurodivergent folks & anyone who doesn't fit the standard narrative to heal (& grow) from the trauma and drama of this world, and to create a life worth living and loving.
I support folks through transition and loss, questions around identity, navigating a new or chronic illness, and communication & relationship challenges.
Are you at a crossroads in your life or relationship(s)? I work with dynamic individuals, couples, and family pairs who feel lost and want to find their way back to clarity & connection. I'm an East-West combo, bringing a mix of soulful mindfulness practice + practicality + creative exploration to the therapy space. I support big thinkers and feelers, including creatives, artists, scientists, healers, dreamers, sensitive people, queer, and/or neurodivergent folks & anyone who doesn't fit the standard narrative to heal (& grow) from the trauma and drama of this world, and to create a life worth living and loving.
(213) 376-5927 View (213) 376-5927
Photo of Tyler Hakomori, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Tyler Hakomori
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
Being human is messy and hard, and all too often, you can feel alone in facing your suffering. You feel isolated, cut off, like nobody else gets what you're going through–whether that be grief, depression, systemic oppression, trauma, or any other human affliction. While the original experiences were hard, your sense of aloneness makes them worse; they stick with you and shape the way you interact with the world, like tightly-wound knots that never get a chance to loosen.
Being human is messy and hard, and all too often, you can feel alone in facing your suffering. You feel isolated, cut off, like nobody else gets what you're going through–whether that be grief, depression, systemic oppression, trauma, or any other human affliction. While the original experiences were hard, your sense of aloneness makes them worse; they stick with you and shape the way you interact with the world, like tightly-wound knots that never get a chance to loosen.
(310) 742-8722 View (310) 742-8722
Photo of Douye' D Youduba-Tantua, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Douye' D Youduba-Tantua
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
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 Aba Horthy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Aba Horthy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I am a queer multicultural nonbinary AuDHD therapist who creates a nonjudgemental space for their clients. I mainly focus on the trans and nonbinary experience, complex trauma, chronic/terminal illnesses, ADHD/autism and grief/loss. I have clinical and personal experiences regarding my specializations. I have a deep capacity for working with trauma & supporting clients who think their story is “too heavy” for others to bear. I am really good at helping you (re)connect with who you are, who you want to be & figuring out how self-care looks like for you. Whatever we work on, I will create a safe environment and affirm your experience.
I am a queer multicultural nonbinary AuDHD therapist who creates a nonjudgemental space for their clients. I mainly focus on the trans and nonbinary experience, complex trauma, chronic/terminal illnesses, ADHD/autism and grief/loss. I have clinical and personal experiences regarding my specializations. I have a deep capacity for working with trauma & supporting clients who think their story is “too heavy” for others to bear. I am really good at helping you (re)connect with who you are, who you want to be & figuring out how self-care looks like for you. Whatever we work on, I will create a safe environment and affirm your experience.
(310) 564-1408 View (310) 564-1408
Photo of Jennifer Sleeper, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Jennifer Sleeper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
What kind of issues can EMDR treat? Depression, general/performance anxiety, relationship problems, disturbing memories, grief, panic attacks, phobias, addictions, verbal/physical/sexual abuse.
At times, we experience painful feelings of guilt and shame, or think "I am not good enough". I specialize in helping individuals with severe sexual abuse & trauma. My primary approach is called EMDR, a mind and body therapy which can help you cope more effectively with painful emotions. When a person experiences mild to severe trauma such as abuse, divorce, job stress, or a life-threatening illness, the brain cannot always process the event as it should. As a result, trauma can have a lasting effect and can interfere with your relationships, job and coping with everyday life. EMDR treatment can help move toward healing.
What kind of issues can EMDR treat? Depression, general/performance anxiety, relationship problems, disturbing memories, grief, panic attacks, phobias, addictions, verbal/physical/sexual abuse.
At times, we experience painful feelings of guilt and shame, or think "I am not good enough". I specialize in helping individuals with severe sexual abuse & trauma. My primary approach is called EMDR, a mind and body therapy which can help you cope more effectively with painful emotions. When a person experiences mild to severe trauma such as abuse, divorce, job stress, or a life-threatening illness, the brain cannot always process the event as it should. As a result, trauma can have a lasting effect and can interfere with your relationships, job and coping with everyday life. EMDR treatment can help move toward healing.
(424) 396-0987 View (424) 396-0987
Photo of Gina Gregory, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Gina Gregory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
I specialize in working with adults coping with anxiety, stress, loss and large life changes.
Often times we get stuck in patterns related to our thoughts or behaviors that get in the way of us getting to where we want to go. These patterns can worsen symptoms of anxiety, depression and at times, interfere with our relationships and overarching goals. Through a collaborative approach, I aim at helping you explore your own motivation to take meaningful steps in creating the life you want to live by examining these patterns.
I specialize in working with adults coping with anxiety, stress, loss and large life changes.
Often times we get stuck in patterns related to our thoughts or behaviors that get in the way of us getting to where we want to go. These patterns can worsen symptoms of anxiety, depression and at times, interfere with our relationships and overarching goals. Through a collaborative approach, I aim at helping you explore your own motivation to take meaningful steps in creating the life you want to live by examining these patterns.
(424) 251-5515 View (424) 251-5515
Photo of Susan Fox Horn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Susan Fox Horn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
I have worked with people suffering depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, pain from a past or recent trauma, loss and grief, those who are divorced or divorcing and single parents.
You may be feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, or confused. You may be experiencing a difficult life transition or feel that something is missing in your life. It is important to find a therapist with whom you have a good fit, a feeling that your therapist "gets" you in order to develop the trust necessary in a therapeutic relationship. I have over 35 years of experience helping people in a safe, non-judgmental environment. It is through feeling understood that we come to understand ourselves better.
I have worked with people suffering depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, pain from a past or recent trauma, loss and grief, those who are divorced or divorcing and single parents.
You may be feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, or confused. You may be experiencing a difficult life transition or feel that something is missing in your life. It is important to find a therapist with whom you have a good fit, a feeling that your therapist "gets" you in order to develop the trust necessary in a therapeutic relationship. I have over 35 years of experience helping people in a safe, non-judgmental environment. It is through feeling understood that we come to understand ourselves better.
(310) 856-9428 View (310) 856-9428
Photo of Elizabeth Weinberger, PhD, MPH, Psychologist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Elizabeth Weinberger, PhD, MPH
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life is challenging enough without being hampered by painful or unpleasant thoughts, feelings or memories. I have been in private practice since 1990, helping people overcome the emotional obstacles that prevent them from living full and satisfying lives. These obstacles include: low self-esteem, difficulty relating to others, relationship problems, unresolved grief, immobilizing anxiety, unresolved issues from childhood, maladaptive ways of coping with stress etc.. I see adults only and do not do couple's therapy. When contacting me, please briefly state what you need help with, and, your insurance, if planning to use it.
Life is challenging enough without being hampered by painful or unpleasant thoughts, feelings or memories. I have been in private practice since 1990, helping people overcome the emotional obstacles that prevent them from living full and satisfying lives. These obstacles include: low self-esteem, difficulty relating to others, relationship problems, unresolved grief, immobilizing anxiety, unresolved issues from childhood, maladaptive ways of coping with stress etc.. I see adults only and do not do couple's therapy. When contacting me, please briefly state what you need help with, and, your insurance, if planning to use it.
(424) 289-6341 View (424) 289-6341
Photo of Kim Seabrooks, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Kim Seabrooks
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I have expertise with childhood and intergenerational trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict.
What are you experiencing right now? Are you feeling emotionally overwhelmed, unheard, or misunderstood? Maybe you feel inadequate, incomplete, numb, or blocked by anxiety or fear. With me, therapy can be a safe space to be seen, heard, and validated. Most of us want to feel better about ourselves and our closest relationships. I help individuals, couples, and families learn to listen more effectively to themselves and each other.
I have expertise with childhood and intergenerational trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict.
What are you experiencing right now? Are you feeling emotionally overwhelmed, unheard, or misunderstood? Maybe you feel inadequate, incomplete, numb, or blocked by anxiety or fear. With me, therapy can be a safe space to be seen, heard, and validated. Most of us want to feel better about ourselves and our closest relationships. I help individuals, couples, and families learn to listen more effectively to themselves and each other.
(310) 861-6806 View (310) 861-6806
Photo of Charlene Mcpherson, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Charlene Mcpherson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BS, CADCIII, ICADC, SAP, YT200
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
As an addiction counselor since 1991 I have had the opportunity to work with many clients helping them with, support to move forward in recovery, life changes, healing, healthy relationships, someone to listen, or getting their life balanced. We will work together taking steps that will guide you on your path of change and recovery. I believe everyone at some point in their life may need to seek out a counselor. Life is always changing. Situations come up in our life such as addiction, relapse, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, stress, grief and self-esteem issues.
As an addiction counselor since 1991 I have had the opportunity to work with many clients helping them with, support to move forward in recovery, life changes, healing, healthy relationships, someone to listen, or getting their life balanced. We will work together taking steps that will guide you on your path of change and recovery. I believe everyone at some point in their life may need to seek out a counselor. Life is always changing. Situations come up in our life such as addiction, relapse, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, stress, grief and self-esteem issues.
(424) 322-1082 View (424) 322-1082
Photo of Stephanie Book Koehler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Stephanie Book Koehler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
We’re finding ourselves living in a fragmented world, trying to hold it together when the nature of things is to fall apart. How can we feel whole within so much fragmentation? The big questions arise: Who am I now? What matters to me? How do I enliven myself within these restrictions? We are all grieving, mourning lost friends, illusions of safety, illusions of control and predictability, opportunities gone that will never return. Are you sadder? Sadder and wiser but more adrift? Are past traumas holding you back? Right now is the time to get more support as you grapple with your life's meaning and purpose.
We’re finding ourselves living in a fragmented world, trying to hold it together when the nature of things is to fall apart. How can we feel whole within so much fragmentation? The big questions arise: Who am I now? What matters to me? How do I enliven myself within these restrictions? We are all grieving, mourning lost friends, illusions of safety, illusions of control and predictability, opportunities gone that will never return. Are you sadder? Sadder and wiser but more adrift? Are past traumas holding you back? Right now is the time to get more support as you grapple with your life's meaning and purpose.
(310) 339-5812 View (310) 339-5812
Photo of Diem M. Nguyen, Psy.D., Psychologist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Diem M. Nguyen, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
People thrive when they feel a sense of purpose and connection to themselves and others. Most people come to see me when something is missing from their lives, be it purpose, connection, or both. Depression and/or anxiety may be at work. Anger or grief could consume more of their time and focus. Others feel stagnant, confused, expressing a lack of motivation and self-worth. Finding a safe place to explore your current struggles is possible in therapy. To achieve the meaningful changes you desire, seeking professional help is an effective option.
People thrive when they feel a sense of purpose and connection to themselves and others. Most people come to see me when something is missing from their lives, be it purpose, connection, or both. Depression and/or anxiety may be at work. Anger or grief could consume more of their time and focus. Others feel stagnant, confused, expressing a lack of motivation and self-worth. Finding a safe place to explore your current struggles is possible in therapy. To achieve the meaningful changes you desire, seeking professional help is an effective option.
(323) 379-0827 View (323) 379-0827
Photo of Cindy J Stanberry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Cindy J Stanberry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
I work with a variety of issues including depression, addictions, grief, mid-life crisis, relationships, parenting, spirituality.
I provide a safe environment in which to explore and develop insight into patterns in your life. I am a Certified Jungian Analyst, working from a Jungian-oriented perspective, helping to develop a relationship between the conscious and unconscious. People often seek a therapist due to a crisis, or possibly because they've developed an awareness that something is not working in their lives anymore. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of yourself, so that you can change old patterns and live your life with integrity, authenticity and meaning. Thus, our work becomes a practice that tends to soul.
I work with a variety of issues including depression, addictions, grief, mid-life crisis, relationships, parenting, spirituality.
I provide a safe environment in which to explore and develop insight into patterns in your life. I am a Certified Jungian Analyst, working from a Jungian-oriented perspective, helping to develop a relationship between the conscious and unconscious. People often seek a therapist due to a crisis, or possibly because they've developed an awareness that something is not working in their lives anymore. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of yourself, so that you can change old patterns and live your life with integrity, authenticity and meaning. Thus, our work becomes a practice that tends to soul.
(424) 294-8203 View (424) 294-8203
Photo of Kathryn Diaz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Kathryn Diaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
I have special training in trauma (PTSD) and addiction, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, depth psychotherapy, Jungian psychology, art therapy, dream work, relationship (attachment) issues, spiritual issues, grief and infertility.
The techniques I have discovered and found useful on my own healing journey have become the foundation for my practice as a holistic psychotherapist. My passion lies in creating a sacred and compassionate space where individuals can embark on a transformative exploration of their inner worlds, healing past trauma or negative beliefs so that they can fully live in the present moment. My approach is deeply rooted in empathy, recognizing the uniqueness of each person's experience and honoring the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
I have special training in trauma (PTSD) and addiction, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, depth psychotherapy, Jungian psychology, art therapy, dream work, relationship (attachment) issues, spiritual issues, grief and infertility.
The techniques I have discovered and found useful on my own healing journey have become the foundation for my practice as a holistic psychotherapist. My passion lies in creating a sacred and compassionate space where individuals can embark on a transformative exploration of their inner worlds, healing past trauma or negative beliefs so that they can fully live in the present moment. My approach is deeply rooted in empathy, recognizing the uniqueness of each person's experience and honoring the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
(310) 736-2717 View (310) 736-2717
Photo of Victoria Le Beau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Victoria Le Beau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
During my 30 years as a psychotherapist I have helped many people learn to cope with lives that have become overwhelming. I help people develop success in work, family, and love. I have a broad range of experience working with adults and couples. Their symptoms range from depression, panic/anxiety, life changes, traumatic events, grief, relationship problems, and unresolved childhood issues.3
During my 30 years as a psychotherapist I have helped many people learn to cope with lives that have become overwhelming. I help people develop success in work, family, and love. I have a broad range of experience working with adults and couples. Their symptoms range from depression, panic/anxiety, life changes, traumatic events, grief, relationship problems, and unresolved childhood issues.3
(424) 653-6946 View (424) 653-6946

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Grief Therapists

How long does therapy take for grief?

There is no exact timeline for grief counseling. Some people may start to feel better after just a few sessions, while others may take months or longer to feel relief. Some specific approaches, including some types of CBT, may involve a set number of sessions, or therapy may be open-ended until the patient determines they are ready to wrap up. Just as there is no right or wrong way to grieve, there is no right or wrong way to seek therapy for grief.

When should you seek therapy for grief?

Many people mistakenly believe that their grief needs to be debilitating or all-encompassing to warrant therapy. This is not the case. While people who experience severe, prolonged grief—particularly those who are considering self-harm or engaging in unhealthy substance use—are especially likely to benefit from therapy, so too are people whose grief is less intense but still interfering with well-being or daily functioning. In practice, almost anyone struggling to process a loss could benefit from grief counseling.

Can grief be managed without therapy?

Oftentimes, yes. Grief is a near-universal part of being human, and many find that their grief, while profound, does not stop them from participating in day-to-day life and steadily eases over time without outside help. For others, however, the harsh pain of early grief persists for months or years or leaves them unable to function. This group is especially likely to benefit from seeing a therapist, who can guide them through their grief and help them reconnect with the world.

What happens if grief is left untreated?

Because grief does not in itself necessitate therapy, untreated grief will often resolve on its own. However, for some people—particularly those who would qualify for a diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder—untreated grief can be a source of seemingly endless pain or lead them to withdraw from the world. In such cases, treatment can be indispensable, as it can help an individual adapt to the loss and start living again.