Photo of Katrina Dela Cruz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malibu, CA
Katrina Dela Cruz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CYI, Reiki 2
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
I have been honored to support many through some of the most significant transitions in their lives. Opening my career with a decade as a hospital clinician, I was especially drawn to the beginning and end of life, and the incredible privilege it is to be welcomed to hold space during these times. In my private practice, I specialize in grief and loss, particularly death and dying, and the emotional and spiritual work surrounding other transitions, rites of passage, and life cycles. This includes work around the end of life, pregnancy loss (including TFMR), traumatic birthing processes, and plant spirit medicine integration.
I have been honored to support many through some of the most significant transitions in their lives. Opening my career with a decade as a hospital clinician, I was especially drawn to the beginning and end of life, and the incredible privilege it is to be welcomed to hold space during these times. In my private practice, I specialize in grief and loss, particularly death and dying, and the emotional and spiritual work surrounding other transitions, rites of passage, and life cycles. This includes work around the end of life, pregnancy loss (including TFMR), traumatic birthing processes, and plant spirit medicine integration.
(805) 667-0631 View (805) 667-0631
Photo of David E Bresler, Psychologist in Malibu, CA
David E Bresler
Psychologist, PhD, LAC, DiplAc, NCCAOM, AAPM
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
My practice focuses on helping individuals, couples, and families who are suffering from emotional or physical pain or the aftereffects of trauma. We help them resolve the traumatic experience, as well as its consequences (e.g. physical pain, stress, disability, depression, anxiety, insomnia, medication dependence, isolation, etc.) Although many of our patients have not responded well to prior therapies, we've had outstanding success in helping them move from feeling a severe loss to finding a new and positive beginning. We love to work with people who are ready to change and eager to learn how to do it.
My practice focuses on helping individuals, couples, and families who are suffering from emotional or physical pain or the aftereffects of trauma. We help them resolve the traumatic experience, as well as its consequences (e.g. physical pain, stress, disability, depression, anxiety, insomnia, medication dependence, isolation, etc.) Although many of our patients have not responded well to prior therapies, we've had outstanding success in helping them move from feeling a severe loss to finding a new and positive beginning. We love to work with people who are ready to change and eager to learn how to do it.
(562) 250-5763 x1 View (562) 250-5763 x1
Photo of Dianne Porchia in Malibu, CA
Dianne Porchia
MA, DMBM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
Dianne Porchia is featured in HEAL Documentary film for her successful healing work with advance stage cancer client who remains cancer free over 5 years after diagnosis with stage IV colorectal cancer. Porchia's unique holistic approach to healing integrates the principles and practice of mind-body-heart-soul energy medicine, epigenetics, psychoneuroimmunology and heart-centered communication skills to reduce mental-emotional stress, support immune function and create and maintain successful and loving relationships through high stress life challenges such as divorce, death, loss of job, serious illness, disease and cancer.
Dianne Porchia is featured in HEAL Documentary film for her successful healing work with advance stage cancer client who remains cancer free over 5 years after diagnosis with stage IV colorectal cancer. Porchia's unique holistic approach to healing integrates the principles and practice of mind-body-heart-soul energy medicine, epigenetics, psychoneuroimmunology and heart-centered communication skills to reduce mental-emotional stress, support immune function and create and maintain successful and loving relationships through high stress life challenges such as divorce, death, loss of job, serious illness, disease and cancer.
(310) 627-2585 View (310) 627-2585
Photo of Anahita Kia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Anahita Kia
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
Have you been feeling heightened levels of stress, sadness, or general dissatisfaction with your life? Are you engaging in unhealthy patterns of behavior, abusing substances, or staying in unhappy relationships out of complacency or fear? I work with individuals, couples, and families experiencing emotional and relational issues, including separation and divorce, codependency, addiction, panic, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, and women's health issues. Together, we will work to identify and understand the issues at hand, reduce your distress, and help you live a life that feels more productive and fulfilling.
Have you been feeling heightened levels of stress, sadness, or general dissatisfaction with your life? Are you engaging in unhealthy patterns of behavior, abusing substances, or staying in unhappy relationships out of complacency or fear? I work with individuals, couples, and families experiencing emotional and relational issues, including separation and divorce, codependency, addiction, panic, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, and women's health issues. Together, we will work to identify and understand the issues at hand, reduce your distress, and help you live a life that feels more productive and fulfilling.
(747) 318-5635 View (747) 318-5635
Photo of Courtney Hamlin, LMFT, Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Courtney Hamlin, LMFT, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
I'm here to help you. Whether this is your first time seeking counseling, or you are returning to work through a challenging time, I commend you for your willingness to try out therapy and/or continue your work. As we all know, life is not easy, and we are constantly confronted by doubts, darkness, fear, loss, and loneliness. I dedicate my time and efforts and use my skill set to collaborate with clients. I help them develop resources and tools, tap their inner strength, and get them back on the road to living a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I'm here to help you. Whether this is your first time seeking counseling, or you are returning to work through a challenging time, I commend you for your willingness to try out therapy and/or continue your work. As we all know, life is not easy, and we are constantly confronted by doubts, darkness, fear, loss, and loneliness. I dedicate my time and efforts and use my skill set to collaborate with clients. I help them develop resources and tools, tap their inner strength, and get them back on the road to living a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(424) 999-1056 View (424) 999-1056
Photo of Seraphina Geiter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malibu, CA
Seraphina Geiter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90263
Some of my specialties include treating depression, difficult life transitions, grief and loss, and relationship problems.
Maybe you've been struggling to feel like yourself for a while now, and have been hesitant to reach out for help. I'm glad you're here. Sometimes life loses its spark and sense of meaning and it's hard to find the way. Life can feel like a heavy burden, with feelings of hopelessness, sadness, or meaninglessness. Maybe you no longer want to participate in the things you once enjoyed. You find yourself isolating, or avoiding life. If you're tired of struggling and feeling bad about yourself and life, I can help. While these circumstances may have been the past, it doesn’t need to be your future.
Some of my specialties include treating depression, difficult life transitions, grief and loss, and relationship problems.
Maybe you've been struggling to feel like yourself for a while now, and have been hesitant to reach out for help. I'm glad you're here. Sometimes life loses its spark and sense of meaning and it's hard to find the way. Life can feel like a heavy burden, with feelings of hopelessness, sadness, or meaninglessness. Maybe you no longer want to participate in the things you once enjoyed. You find yourself isolating, or avoiding life. If you're tired of struggling and feeling bad about yourself and life, I can help. While these circumstances may have been the past, it doesn’t need to be your future.
(805) 669-9283 View (805) 669-9283
Photo of Jennifer Gustafson: EMDR, Couples, Teens, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Malibu, CA
Jennifer Gustafson: EMDR, Couples, Teens
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90263  (Online Only)
I work with culturally/gender diverse populations in managing trauma, depression, anxiety, anger management, OCD, relationship issues, parenting, major life transitions, grief/loss, terminal illness, and end-of-life.
Are you struggling with anxiety? Do you feel like you don't have control over your own thoughts? Most mental health issues are rooted in trauma. Trauma can be any experience that negatively changes the way you feel or think about yourself, others. or the world. I can help you process your trauma and find a more positive path forward. I believe that therapy should be tailored to fit each individual client within a safe, trusting, empathetic, nonjudgmental, and collaborative relationship. Life is complicated and unpredictable and we all need support sometimes to help us navigate its challenges.
I work with culturally/gender diverse populations in managing trauma, depression, anxiety, anger management, OCD, relationship issues, parenting, major life transitions, grief/loss, terminal illness, and end-of-life.
Are you struggling with anxiety? Do you feel like you don't have control over your own thoughts? Most mental health issues are rooted in trauma. Trauma can be any experience that negatively changes the way you feel or think about yourself, others. or the world. I can help you process your trauma and find a more positive path forward. I believe that therapy should be tailored to fit each individual client within a safe, trusting, empathetic, nonjudgmental, and collaborative relationship. Life is complicated and unpredictable and we all need support sometimes to help us navigate its challenges.
(323) 498-3645 View (323) 498-3645
Photo of Jillian Ziesmer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Jillian Ziesmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
I help clients to cultivate personal growth and improve relationships. I explore family dynamics, relationship patterns, negative belief systems, underlying feelings, and future goals. I help clients unpack their trauma, sadness, grief, frustrations, fears, and feelings of stagnation or "being stuck," and I support clients in finding and discovering their authentic selves and dreams. I am here to help clients gain insight and to give clients an experience of being heard and understood. I am here to help you explore, untangle, process, and discover your truth. I work with clients collaboratively to learn effective ways of coping.
I help clients to cultivate personal growth and improve relationships. I explore family dynamics, relationship patterns, negative belief systems, underlying feelings, and future goals. I help clients unpack their trauma, sadness, grief, frustrations, fears, and feelings of stagnation or "being stuck," and I support clients in finding and discovering their authentic selves and dreams. I am here to help clients gain insight and to give clients an experience of being heard and understood. I am here to help you explore, untangle, process, and discover your truth. I work with clients collaboratively to learn effective ways of coping.
(818) 463-2416 View (818) 463-2416
Photo of Renée Glick in Malibu, CA
Renée Glick
MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
If you desire to understand, heal and harness your own organic processes (anxiety, depression, disassociation, PTSD, codependency, hyper-vigilance, grief etc.
Feeling stuck? Whether you’ve worked with a therapist or two, or have never been to therapy before, if things don’t seem to be going your way, it may be time to do something different. Do you feel seen? Have you felt lost or further isolated by a merry-go-round of generic, disconnected, or rushed sessions? Are you looking for someone to help you gain practical, actionable knowledge/skills, to become more self-aligned, grounded, empowered, and consistently supported with sessions tailored to you and your unique journey? Then take THIS opportunity toward positive change! Let this be your season of new beginnings…
If you desire to understand, heal and harness your own organic processes (anxiety, depression, disassociation, PTSD, codependency, hyper-vigilance, grief etc.
Feeling stuck? Whether you’ve worked with a therapist or two, or have never been to therapy before, if things don’t seem to be going your way, it may be time to do something different. Do you feel seen? Have you felt lost or further isolated by a merry-go-round of generic, disconnected, or rushed sessions? Are you looking for someone to help you gain practical, actionable knowledge/skills, to become more self-aligned, grounded, empowered, and consistently supported with sessions tailored to you and your unique journey? Then take THIS opportunity toward positive change! Let this be your season of new beginnings…
(818) 369-3379 View (818) 369-3379
Photo of Molly Brumagin Vincent, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Molly Brumagin Vincent
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90264  (Online Only)
I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California with ten years of experience working with children, families, teens and individuals experiencing a variety of life’s challenges and mental health issues. Some of my specialities include life transitions, anxiety, depression, issues related to self-esteem, relationship issues, family issues, parenting issues & children with developmental delays. My counseling style is warm, empathetic and interactive. My approach is strength based and combines cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness and solution-focused counseling.
I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California with ten years of experience working with children, families, teens and individuals experiencing a variety of life’s challenges and mental health issues. Some of my specialities include life transitions, anxiety, depression, issues related to self-esteem, relationship issues, family issues, parenting issues & children with developmental delays. My counseling style is warm, empathetic and interactive. My approach is strength based and combines cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness and solution-focused counseling.
(424) 363-0939 View (424) 363-0939
Photo of Amaris T Baker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Amaris T Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
In this day and age it can be very difficult to just exist. The world appears to be evolving faster each day which can make it extremely difficult to be grounded with oneself. At times, one could feel anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed because the amount one has to manage on their own. Finding peace in a world that is unpredictable and scary can appear unattainable. I write this because I live in this world as well. I view therapy as a means to finding the tools and skills to cope with trauma, addiction, work, relationship distress, and/or family dynamics to ultimately find empowerment in oneself.
In this day and age it can be very difficult to just exist. The world appears to be evolving faster each day which can make it extremely difficult to be grounded with oneself. At times, one could feel anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed because the amount one has to manage on their own. Finding peace in a world that is unpredictable and scary can appear unattainable. I write this because I live in this world as well. I view therapy as a means to finding the tools and skills to cope with trauma, addiction, work, relationship distress, and/or family dynamics to ultimately find empowerment in oneself.
(310) 861-7913 View (310) 861-7913
Photo of Marni Kamins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Marni Kamins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
Are you sick of self-sabotage? Do you want more confidence only to find that you are your own worst critic? Is your relationship with yourself frustrating you? I provide a safe, warm space for you to build self-esteem, and become un-stuck. I am passionate and committed to supporting you to achieve greater self-awareness, self-confidence and happiness in life. "Disordered" eating, Quarter-life-crisis, social anxiety, creative-blocks, Relational Trauma, depression, fear and anxiety are my specialties. I am also a fully licensed MFT in the great state of Texas!
Are you sick of self-sabotage? Do you want more confidence only to find that you are your own worst critic? Is your relationship with yourself frustrating you? I provide a safe, warm space for you to build self-esteem, and become un-stuck. I am passionate and committed to supporting you to achieve greater self-awareness, self-confidence and happiness in life. "Disordered" eating, Quarter-life-crisis, social anxiety, creative-blocks, Relational Trauma, depression, fear and anxiety are my specialties. I am also a fully licensed MFT in the great state of Texas!
(424) 327-9175 View (424) 327-9175
Photo of Chelsea Autumn, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Malibu, CA
Chelsea Autumn
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
I provide counseling in an idyllic and healing environment.  My speciality is nature therapy, however, I also have an office if you prefer that setting. It is entirely up to you and your needs. We will collaborate together as I believe you intuitively know what is best for you. I am here to be your co-pilot and assist you while you process your thoughts and feelings in order to align with your higher self.  I have over fifteen years of experience working with children, individuals and couples. I look forward to hearing from you and assisting you on your journey of healing and self-discovery.
I provide counseling in an idyllic and healing environment.  My speciality is nature therapy, however, I also have an office if you prefer that setting. It is entirely up to you and your needs. We will collaborate together as I believe you intuitively know what is best for you. I am here to be your co-pilot and assist you while you process your thoughts and feelings in order to align with your higher self.  I have over fifteen years of experience working with children, individuals and couples. I look forward to hearing from you and assisting you on your journey of healing and self-discovery.
(747) 281-3947 View (747) 281-3947
Photo of Hannah M Rodriguez, Counselor in Malibu, CA
Hannah M Rodriguez
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
Stress/anxiety/depression has been rising rapidly. Transitions are hard, and our nervous systems are exhausted. Hannah gets that. As a Licensed Psychotherapist and Nationally Certified Counselor, Hannah incorporates her mental health degree with Yoga to implement healing on all levels. She also teaches breathwork and meditation to help her clients experience the amazing benefits of being mindful of their breath and the present moment. Hannah is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Yoga Teacher, Reiki Energy Worker, and a certified NeuroEmotional Technique practitioner. She is vegan and loves spending time in the sun and sand.
Stress/anxiety/depression has been rising rapidly. Transitions are hard, and our nervous systems are exhausted. Hannah gets that. As a Licensed Psychotherapist and Nationally Certified Counselor, Hannah incorporates her mental health degree with Yoga to implement healing on all levels. She also teaches breathwork and meditation to help her clients experience the amazing benefits of being mindful of their breath and the present moment. Hannah is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Yoga Teacher, Reiki Energy Worker, and a certified NeuroEmotional Technique practitioner. She is vegan and loves spending time in the sun and sand.
(424) 304-1711 View (424) 304-1711
Photo of Moriah Stapf, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Malibu, CA
Moriah Stapf
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
As soon as you enter the world – there is an influx of challenging, stressful, and overwhelming information that begins to shape the person you become. These experiences build resilience, intelligence, and personality, but they also can make you fearful, anxious, avoidant, shut down, and living out of alignment with our intuitive needs and desires. If you are yearning for more confidence, meaning, purpose, positivity, and clarity – you're in the right place. I aim to cultivate a safe and comfortable environment geared to support you in quieting the noise getting in the way of you connecting to the wholeness of who you are.
As soon as you enter the world – there is an influx of challenging, stressful, and overwhelming information that begins to shape the person you become. These experiences build resilience, intelligence, and personality, but they also can make you fearful, anxious, avoidant, shut down, and living out of alignment with our intuitive needs and desires. If you are yearning for more confidence, meaning, purpose, positivity, and clarity – you're in the right place. I aim to cultivate a safe and comfortable environment geared to support you in quieting the noise getting in the way of you connecting to the wholeness of who you are.
(310) 361-1312 View (310) 361-1312
Photo of Nargess Fassih - Soul Strategy Therapy , Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Nargess Fassih - Soul Strategy Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
On the surface, life seems to be going smoothly. On the inside, it's a different story. Anxiety, depression, and stress quietly chip away at your well-being and relationships. What once proved effective might now fall short as circumstances shift, and your life and goals evolve. Perhaps you're mid-career, grappling with the elusive balance between personal and professional life. Maybe you've ticked off the milestones on your "roadmap to success" yet yearn for more depth and meaning. If this narrative resonates with you, and you're here in search of a solution, welcome and congratulations on taking this pivotal first step!
On the surface, life seems to be going smoothly. On the inside, it's a different story. Anxiety, depression, and stress quietly chip away at your well-being and relationships. What once proved effective might now fall short as circumstances shift, and your life and goals evolve. Perhaps you're mid-career, grappling with the elusive balance between personal and professional life. Maybe you've ticked off the milestones on your "roadmap to success" yet yearn for more depth and meaning. If this narrative resonates with you, and you're here in search of a solution, welcome and congratulations on taking this pivotal first step!
(424) 688-6044 View (424) 688-6044
Photo of Doctor Chris Romig | Anxiety Depression Ptsd | Sgb | Ketamine Therapy in Malibu, CA
Doctor Chris Romig | Anxiety Depression Ptsd | Sgb | Ketamine Therapy
MD
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
I am a board-certified MD at Stella in California with over twenty years of experience. As the Medical Director of Innovation, I treat mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and PTSD with biological treatments like stellate ganglion block (SGB), ketamine therapy, and more. Throughout my career, I have tried to stay at the forefront of research and literature on the use of psychedelics in treating mental health conditions. Since 2016, I have developed innovative and advanced ketamine protocols to maximize the therapeutic value of ketamine treatments.
I am a board-certified MD at Stella in California with over twenty years of experience. As the Medical Director of Innovation, I treat mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and PTSD with biological treatments like stellate ganglion block (SGB), ketamine therapy, and more. Throughout my career, I have tried to stay at the forefront of research and literature on the use of psychedelics in treating mental health conditions. Since 2016, I have developed innovative and advanced ketamine protocols to maximize the therapeutic value of ketamine treatments.
(949) 541-9806 View (949) 541-9806
Photo of Dr. Laura LaPiana, PsyD, A Professional Corp, Psychologist in Malibu, CA
Dr. Laura LaPiana, PsyD, A Professional Corp
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice and have been providing psychotherapy services to adults, families, couples and adolescents for more than 25-years. I work with patients to identify their own personal goals and relationship needs in an effort to improve well-being and increase feelings of satisfaction and authenticity. Life transitions as well as difficulty in important relationships often drives people to seek help. Beginning psychotherapy is an important step in building skills to manage life challenges and stressors. Improvements in self-care can have dramatic benefits on emotional and physical health.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice and have been providing psychotherapy services to adults, families, couples and adolescents for more than 25-years. I work with patients to identify their own personal goals and relationship needs in an effort to improve well-being and increase feelings of satisfaction and authenticity. Life transitions as well as difficulty in important relationships often drives people to seek help. Beginning psychotherapy is an important step in building skills to manage life challenges and stressors. Improvements in self-care can have dramatic benefits on emotional and physical health.
(424) 329-1123 View (424) 329-1123
Photo of Mindfulpath, Inc.- Erica Ives, MFT, CEDS, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Mindfulpath, Inc.- Erica Ives, MFT, CEDS
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
As a therapist, I demonstrate a passionate devotion to fostering growth in a safe, nurturing environment. My treatment approach is tailored to your strengths and uniqueness. I teach and guide you how to actively pay attention to the messages of your body, thoughts, feelings, and your actions. Learn new coping skills that compliment your uniqueness. Visit my websites at www.mindfulpath.com and www.ericaives.com I believe recovery is much more than eliminating self-destructive behaviors; it's about cultivating and living life everyday on a mindful path filled with self-awareness, fulfilling relationships, meaning, and vitality.
As a therapist, I demonstrate a passionate devotion to fostering growth in a safe, nurturing environment. My treatment approach is tailored to your strengths and uniqueness. I teach and guide you how to actively pay attention to the messages of your body, thoughts, feelings, and your actions. Learn new coping skills that compliment your uniqueness. Visit my websites at www.mindfulpath.com and www.ericaives.com I believe recovery is much more than eliminating self-destructive behaviors; it's about cultivating and living life everyday on a mindful path filled with self-awareness, fulfilling relationships, meaning, and vitality.
(818) 639-4273 View (818) 639-4273
Photo of KD Farris, Pastoral Counselor in Malibu, CA
KD Farris
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
My roots as a therapist and healer have seeded over the past thirty-five years, bringing substance and depth to my one-on-one sessions with couples and individuals. During this time, I have maintained a private practice, which has always consisted of process-oriented consciousness work -- a means by which to enter safely and deeply into the inner landscape of the psyche for positive and real world change. My results-oriented approach to psychology is derived from the commitment to a conscious process and the intrapsychic relationship one can access when choosing to turn toward--and look at--oneself.
My roots as a therapist and healer have seeded over the past thirty-five years, bringing substance and depth to my one-on-one sessions with couples and individuals. During this time, I have maintained a private practice, which has always consisted of process-oriented consciousness work -- a means by which to enter safely and deeply into the inner landscape of the psyche for positive and real world change. My results-oriented approach to psychology is derived from the commitment to a conscious process and the intrapsychic relationship one can access when choosing to turn toward--and look at--oneself.
(310) 889-0677 View (310) 889-0677
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.