Photo of Deborah R. Bates, Psychologist in Monrovia, CA
Deborah R. Bates
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016
I have experience working with diverse clientele, from older adults grieving the loss of their spouse to young foster children recovering from abuse.
No matter your circumstance, whether you have been struggling life-long or just recently stuck in a rut, whether you are suffering from depression or anxiety, dissatisfied with your relationships, unsure how to help your child, crippled by past pain, or simply desiring to grow, there is hope for you. I strive to make the therapy room a warm and safe environment where you feel heard and understood, and where you can honestly and openly explore who you are and who you want to be. I will meet you where you are and walk with you toward growth and healing.
I have experience working with diverse clientele, from older adults grieving the loss of their spouse to young foster children recovering from abuse.
No matter your circumstance, whether you have been struggling life-long or just recently stuck in a rut, whether you are suffering from depression or anxiety, dissatisfied with your relationships, unsure how to help your child, crippled by past pain, or simply desiring to grow, there is hope for you. I strive to make the therapy room a warm and safe environment where you feel heard and understood, and where you can honestly and openly explore who you are and who you want to be. I will meet you where you are and walk with you toward growth and healing.
(626) 317-8506 View (626) 317-8506
Photo of Ana L. Aguilar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Ana L. Aguilar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Relational Problems, Grief & Loss utilizing an array of self-love and self-compassion wellness practices.
Are you feeling hopeless, lonely, or helpless? Algun dia te has sentido, agustiado o agobiado por las responsabilidades de esta vida? Let me help you! Dejame ayudarte! Collaboratively, in therapy, I will help you embark in your healing journey. You are not alone! NO estas solo. Juntos caminaremos hacia tu total restauracion y sanidad emocional, fisica, y mental, e espiritual. Together we will walk through the valleys and shadows into the paths of restoration, healing and light.
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Relational Problems, Grief & Loss utilizing an array of self-love and self-compassion wellness practices.
Are you feeling hopeless, lonely, or helpless? Algun dia te has sentido, agustiado o agobiado por las responsabilidades de esta vida? Let me help you! Dejame ayudarte! Collaboratively, in therapy, I will help you embark in your healing journey. You are not alone! NO estas solo. Juntos caminaremos hacia tu total restauracion y sanidad emocional, fisica, y mental, e espiritual. Together we will walk through the valleys and shadows into the paths of restoration, healing and light.
(323) 693-9884 View (323) 693-9884
Photo of Ginette Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Ginette Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016
Ginette G. Walker, LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist). In talking with people, I go by Gina. I offer psychotherapy in English and/or Spanish via telehealth. My approach to treatment is client-centered and depends on clients’ needs and circumstances. Much of my experience is in helping clients engage in processes of post-traumatic and intergenerational growth. My approach to therapy is cross-culturally and developmentally informed and responsive. I am currently focusing on bringing in the perspectives and tools of Positive Psychology.
Ginette G. Walker, LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist). In talking with people, I go by Gina. I offer psychotherapy in English and/or Spanish via telehealth. My approach to treatment is client-centered and depends on clients’ needs and circumstances. Much of my experience is in helping clients engage in processes of post-traumatic and intergenerational growth. My approach to therapy is cross-culturally and developmentally informed and responsive. I am currently focusing on bringing in the perspectives and tools of Positive Psychology.
(310) 504-5417 View (310) 504-5417
Photo of Desiree Harris, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Monrovia, CA
Desiree Harris
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016
Hello, my name is Desiree Harris, and I am a licensed therapist (LPCC). I am licensed in California and work from a CBT ad Solution Focused framework. In my practice, I use a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-focused Therapy to help clients understand how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interrelated while supporting them through changes without getting stuck in problems/challenges. Goal setting with my clients is a collaborative process. I will take the time to listen to your needs and concerns, engage you in reflective conversation, and pinpoint goals that meet your needs.
Hello, my name is Desiree Harris, and I am a licensed therapist (LPCC). I am licensed in California and work from a CBT ad Solution Focused framework. In my practice, I use a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-focused Therapy to help clients understand how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interrelated while supporting them through changes without getting stuck in problems/challenges. Goal setting with my clients is a collaborative process. I will take the time to listen to your needs and concerns, engage you in reflective conversation, and pinpoint goals that meet your needs.
(626) 240-5890 View (626) 240-5890
Photo of Dawn Wisniewski, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Dawn Wisniewski
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monrovia, CA 91017
During the seasons of life, we encounter various barriers, bumps, ditches and forks in the road that lead us in different directions leaving us feeling disconnected, stressed, anxious, depressed, confused and frustrated. As your therapist, my goal is to empower and collaboratively help you heal, resolve and work through issues, identify and explore your strengths and help you to reconnect with yourself and others in the way you envision. I offer a place that is welcoming, friendly, empathetic, supportive, nonjudgmental and safe in order for you to explore and discuss the issues that are impacting you and your life.
During the seasons of life, we encounter various barriers, bumps, ditches and forks in the road that lead us in different directions leaving us feeling disconnected, stressed, anxious, depressed, confused and frustrated. As your therapist, my goal is to empower and collaboratively help you heal, resolve and work through issues, identify and explore your strengths and help you to reconnect with yourself and others in the way you envision. I offer a place that is welcoming, friendly, empathetic, supportive, nonjudgmental and safe in order for you to explore and discuss the issues that are impacting you and your life.
(626) 210-2367 View (626) 210-2367

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alicia Zuniga, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Alicia Zuniga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Puente, CA 91744
The majority of my practice is focused on the areas of anxiety, adjustment, grief, trauma, divorce, stress, ADHD, and depression.
Hello, my name is Alicia Zuniga. I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in treatment for children and families. My passion stems from more than 15 years of direct clinical work with children, teens, and families. The goal of treatment is an individual journey. It is my belief that the client leads the therapeutic process. I use CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused, Mindfulness, and play therapy. I am flexible and easygoing. The therapeutic environment is one that I hope is warm and welcoming. My priority is the client during their session and being present with them.
The majority of my practice is focused on the areas of anxiety, adjustment, grief, trauma, divorce, stress, ADHD, and depression.
Hello, my name is Alicia Zuniga. I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in treatment for children and families. My passion stems from more than 15 years of direct clinical work with children, teens, and families. The goal of treatment is an individual journey. It is my belief that the client leads the therapeutic process. I use CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused, Mindfulness, and play therapy. I am flexible and easygoing. The therapeutic environment is one that I hope is warm and welcoming. My priority is the client during their session and being present with them.
(559) 702-5549 View (559) 702-5549
Photo of Brionna Schroeder, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Brionna Schroeder
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Monte, CA 91732
Grief and loss.
Hi! I'm Brionna Morse, LMFT. I have expertise working with adolescents, teens, and their families. I combine CBT, play/art therapy, as well as somatics and breathwork to rewire the nervous system. My approach is based on the client. I can easily tell what is needed to help you move forward, and have a tool belt of skills that will take you there!
Grief and loss.
Hi! I'm Brionna Morse, LMFT. I have expertise working with adolescents, teens, and their families. I combine CBT, play/art therapy, as well as somatics and breathwork to rewire the nervous system. My approach is based on the client. I can easily tell what is needed to help you move forward, and have a tool belt of skills that will take you there!
(805) 856-6924 View (805) 856-6924
Photo of Lyndsie Amtoft, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Lyndsie Amtoft
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Covina, CA 91790
Lyndsie's passions include offering parenting support, positive communication and values, supporting clients through feelings of grief and loss, and aiding parents and siblings of individuals with special needs in various capacities, among other psychosocial topics and education.
Lyndsie is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 16 years of experience providing therapeutic counseling, case management, and intervention services to children, adults, and families in private practice, service agency, and clinic settings. She has worked as a child development specialist in home and agency settings and currently spends much of her time working within a non-profit, clinical setting. Lyndsie is pursuing her doctoral degree in psychology, public policy, and law in order to support and advocate for children and families who have been involved in high conflict, custodial litigation disputes.
Lyndsie's passions include offering parenting support, positive communication and values, supporting clients through feelings of grief and loss, and aiding parents and siblings of individuals with special needs in various capacities, among other psychosocial topics and education.
Lyndsie is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 16 years of experience providing therapeutic counseling, case management, and intervention services to children, adults, and families in private practice, service agency, and clinic settings. She has worked as a child development specialist in home and agency settings and currently spends much of her time working within a non-profit, clinical setting. Lyndsie is pursuing her doctoral degree in psychology, public policy, and law in order to support and advocate for children and families who have been involved in high conflict, custodial litigation disputes.
(626) 618-8309 View (626) 618-8309
Photo of Ayako Mori, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Ayako Mori
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
City of Industry, CA 91745
I typically work with young adults who are going through life changes/transitions, depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma.
Hello, my name is Ayako Mori and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have worked with children, teens, families, and individuals for over 15 years. I am bilingual in Japanese. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specializing in depression, anxiety, DV issues, grief, and trauma and I use a mindfulness approach to assist my clients with developing effective coping skills. I am also a yoga instructor and utilize a mind-and-body relationship approach.
I typically work with young adults who are going through life changes/transitions, depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma.
Hello, my name is Ayako Mori and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have worked with children, teens, families, and individuals for over 15 years. I am bilingual in Japanese. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specializing in depression, anxiety, DV issues, grief, and trauma and I use a mindfulness approach to assist my clients with developing effective coping skills. I am also a yoga instructor and utilize a mind-and-body relationship approach.
(909) 766-9495 View (909) 766-9495
Photo of Sonja S. Peverieri, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Sonja S. Peverieri
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Covina, CA 91791
Accepting New Clients for In-Person or Telehealth Therapy! Have you been feeling stuck? Or have you been grieving a recent loss? Are you feeling challenged in your partnership? Or maybe concerns in your attachment with your child? I specialize in providing psychotherapy to children, young adults, couples and families. There are significant challenges in which one faces in the stages of life, and I am focused in supporting you in taking the next important step in your journey through life. Through the seasons, I intend to assist you in managing feelings of depression and anxiety.
Accepting New Clients for In-Person or Telehealth Therapy! Have you been feeling stuck? Or have you been grieving a recent loss? Are you feeling challenged in your partnership? Or maybe concerns in your attachment with your child? I specialize in providing psychotherapy to children, young adults, couples and families. There are significant challenges in which one faces in the stages of life, and I am focused in supporting you in taking the next important step in your journey through life. Through the seasons, I intend to assist you in managing feelings of depression and anxiety.
(949) 989-5357 View (949) 989-5357
Photo of Mending Hearts Family Counseling Center, Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Mending Hearts Family Counseling Center, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
While we have a special heart for adoptive and foster families, our FREE Parent Support Workshops are also tailored to address ODD, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, grief, and mild ASD or ID.
Our passion is supporting parents to teach them how to dissolve tantrums, manage their impulses and help their children follow instructions quickly and happily? We teach the principles of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and PC-CARE, two protocols researched at UC Davis Children's Hospital that are both nurturing and effective. Parent learn a set of play therapy skills and behavior therapy skills that can bring warmth and peace back to the home. Foster, adoptive and LGBTQ+ families are welcomed and celebrated.
While we have a special heart for adoptive and foster families, our FREE Parent Support Workshops are also tailored to address ODD, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, grief, and mild ASD or ID.
Our passion is supporting parents to teach them how to dissolve tantrums, manage their impulses and help their children follow instructions quickly and happily? We teach the principles of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and PC-CARE, two protocols researched at UC Davis Children's Hospital that are both nurturing and effective. Parent learn a set of play therapy skills and behavior therapy skills that can bring warmth and peace back to the home. Foster, adoptive and LGBTQ+ families are welcomed and celebrated.
(909) 643-8741 View (909) 643-8741
Photo of Tara Cavazos, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Tara Cavazos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, wondering why you have strong reactions to small stressors or during interactions with others. Life doesn't wait for us to resolve each bad experience/trauma in life, they build up over time and leave us feeling hopeless, alone and disconnected from others. Our past traumas, if unresolved, can impact us negatively with how we interact with others. For the last 19 years, I have helped individuals from all walks of life overcome issues such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, traumas, and work/school stressors.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, wondering why you have strong reactions to small stressors or during interactions with others. Life doesn't wait for us to resolve each bad experience/trauma in life, they build up over time and leave us feeling hopeless, alone and disconnected from others. Our past traumas, if unresolved, can impact us negatively with how we interact with others. For the last 19 years, I have helped individuals from all walks of life overcome issues such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, traumas, and work/school stressors.
(626) 605-3345 View (626) 605-3345
Photo of Floribeth Arrautt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Floribeth Arrautt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alhambra, CA 91801
Thanks for being brave to seek help to overcome challenges and make you more resilient. My name is Floribeth Arrautt, MSW, LCSW, a bilingual licensed clinical social worker with 17 years of experience providing psychotherapy to the elderly, adults, young teens, and children with chronic medical issues and challenges. My client population & specialty focus on providing the psychological tools and interventions that my patients need when dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, chronic medical issues, loss & grief, obesity, emotional eating behaviors. I help my clients to build coping skills to feel better and to overcome obstacles.
Thanks for being brave to seek help to overcome challenges and make you more resilient. My name is Floribeth Arrautt, MSW, LCSW, a bilingual licensed clinical social worker with 17 years of experience providing psychotherapy to the elderly, adults, young teens, and children with chronic medical issues and challenges. My client population & specialty focus on providing the psychological tools and interventions that my patients need when dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, chronic medical issues, loss & grief, obesity, emotional eating behaviors. I help my clients to build coping skills to feel better and to overcome obstacles.
(904) 560-5894 View (904) 560-5894
Photo of Dr. Young Ok Kim, Psychologist in Monrovia, CA
Dr. Young Ok Kim
Psychologist, PsyD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Young Ok Kim enjoys helping those facing diverse challenges such as: anxiety and depression, trauma (including growing up in an abusive family), self-esteem, attachment issues, struggles with loss and grief, relationship and family conflict, and spiritual struggles related to mental health. Particularly, she has a special heart for 1.5 and 2nd generation Asians and their parents who face difficulties related to the unique generational differences stemming from language and cultural barriers. She provides therapy in both English and Korean and she is licensed in California and Illinois.
Dr. Young Ok Kim enjoys helping those facing diverse challenges such as: anxiety and depression, trauma (including growing up in an abusive family), self-esteem, attachment issues, struggles with loss and grief, relationship and family conflict, and spiritual struggles related to mental health. Particularly, she has a special heart for 1.5 and 2nd generation Asians and their parents who face difficulties related to the unique generational differences stemming from language and cultural barriers. She provides therapy in both English and Korean and she is licensed in California and Illinois.
(331) 256-2648 View (331) 256-2648
Photo of Patricia Gallegos, Counselor in Monrovia, CA
Patricia Gallegos
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Glendora, CA 91741
You may choose therapy for multiple reasons. Whether you are here to resolve relationship conflicts, life transition, loss, trauma, or to manage stressors with work; taking this first step can be quite challenging as well as rewarding.Experiencing life's conflicts are often the most demanding aspect of our daily lives; problems often become bigger when you try to ignore them. My goal is to provide guidance for you to find your inner strength to enjoy life again. Together, we will work through your vulnerabilities, fears, and beliefs to have a better understanding of how things can be improved.
You may choose therapy for multiple reasons. Whether you are here to resolve relationship conflicts, life transition, loss, trauma, or to manage stressors with work; taking this first step can be quite challenging as well as rewarding.Experiencing life's conflicts are often the most demanding aspect of our daily lives; problems often become bigger when you try to ignore them. My goal is to provide guidance for you to find your inner strength to enjoy life again. Together, we will work through your vulnerabilities, fears, and beliefs to have a better understanding of how things can be improved.
(909) 359-7905 View (909) 359-7905
Photo of Rebecca Kerr McWhorter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Rebecca Kerr McWhorter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rosemead, CA 91770
Hi there, I'm Rebecca McWhorter, LCSW has experience with all age groups within many multicultural settings. I start with where the patient is should they be suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, and/or grief. My practice focus in on patient care. Patients typically enter therapy due to something that is having a negative impact on their quality of life. I assist them in identifying the root causes or behavior that are preventing them from living their best life. I utilize many different approaches to healing. I prefer to letting the patient vocalize their needs rather than tailor a patient to a plan.
Hi there, I'm Rebecca McWhorter, LCSW has experience with all age groups within many multicultural settings. I start with where the patient is should they be suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, and/or grief. My practice focus in on patient care. Patients typically enter therapy due to something that is having a negative impact on their quality of life. I assist them in identifying the root causes or behavior that are preventing them from living their best life. I utilize many different approaches to healing. I prefer to letting the patient vocalize their needs rather than tailor a patient to a plan.
(442) 218-2807 View (442) 218-2807
Photo of La Cresheia Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CA
La Cresheia Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
La Cresheia Lee, MA MFT, LMFT I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California, with over 12 years of experience (combined licensed and intern hours), and I hold BA degrees in Psychology and Africana Studies. I have worked with diverse clients experiencing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, cultural & racial identity, stress management, and grief and loss. I have also helped many clients who have experienced emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, and those struggling with suicide ideation and co-occurring disorders.
La Cresheia Lee, MA MFT, LMFT I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California, with over 12 years of experience (combined licensed and intern hours), and I hold BA degrees in Psychology and Africana Studies. I have worked with diverse clients experiencing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, cultural & racial identity, stress management, and grief and loss. I have also helped many clients who have experienced emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, and those struggling with suicide ideation and co-occurring disorders.
(820) 204-0541 View (820) 204-0541
Photo of Edward Steven Cordero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Edward Steven Cordero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Covina, CA 91790
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, stress, grief, trauma, and situational adjustments.
Are you feeling defeated by your worry, anxiety, depression, hopelessness, or stress ? Are you frightened by the notion that you are losing control? Do you find yourself feeling alone and afraid to talk to anyone about your current struggle? We are often faced with obstacles, stressors, or traumas which contribute to our symptoms. Even though the therapeutic process may seem scary, please know that making the first call is always the first step in your healing process. Please let me assist you in your journey and help you regain your life. Currently, we also offer Court-Mandated Anger Management Classes.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, stress, grief, trauma, and situational adjustments.
Are you feeling defeated by your worry, anxiety, depression, hopelessness, or stress ? Are you frightened by the notion that you are losing control? Do you find yourself feeling alone and afraid to talk to anyone about your current struggle? We are often faced with obstacles, stressors, or traumas which contribute to our symptoms. Even though the therapeutic process may seem scary, please know that making the first call is always the first step in your healing process. Please let me assist you in your journey and help you regain your life. Currently, we also offer Court-Mandated Anger Management Classes.
(626) 247-3570 View (626) 247-3570
Photo of Sarah Haase, Counselor in Monrovia, CA
Sarah Haase
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
La Puente, CA 91744
Hi, I'm Sarah, a Licensed Clinical Counselor practicing since 2015. In 2018 I moved from Atlanta, GA, to sunny Orange County, California, where I currently reside. I have always had a passion for guiding and supporting youth. My primary specialties are depression, anxiety, grief, and loss. I work with children ages 6-10, adolescents, and young adults up to age 35. I am comprehensive in my therapy approach and adapt to each client's individual needs. I work from a family system and solution-focused based framework.
Hi, I'm Sarah, a Licensed Clinical Counselor practicing since 2015. In 2018 I moved from Atlanta, GA, to sunny Orange County, California, where I currently reside. I have always had a passion for guiding and supporting youth. My primary specialties are depression, anxiety, grief, and loss. I work with children ages 6-10, adolescents, and young adults up to age 35. I am comprehensive in my therapy approach and adapt to each client's individual needs. I work from a family system and solution-focused based framework.
(323) 205-7088 View (323) 205-7088
Photo of Diana Mandujano, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Diana Mandujano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Covina, CA 91791
My name is Diana Mandujano, I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and a Certified Hypnotherapist offering online services in English and Spanish. My specialty is working with children, adolescents, adults, and parents who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, and PTSD. My work involves compassion, humor, empathy, and authenticity. I work from a strengths-based and multicultural lens and integrate mindfulness, creativity, EMDR, Brainspotting, Hypnosis, Solution-Focused, CBT, and Spirituality.
My name is Diana Mandujano, I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and a Certified Hypnotherapist offering online services in English and Spanish. My specialty is working with children, adolescents, adults, and parents who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, and PTSD. My work involves compassion, humor, empathy, and authenticity. I work from a strengths-based and multicultural lens and integrate mindfulness, creativity, EMDR, Brainspotting, Hypnosis, Solution-Focused, CBT, and Spirituality.
(951) 651-0787 View (951) 651-0787
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.