Therapists in Riverside, CA

Photo of Mabel Seisay - All Minds Clear Family Therapy, Inc, LMFT, SAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
All Minds Clear Family Therapy, Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SAP
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92504
I work with individuals, families and couples experiencing communication breakdowns, depression, anxiety, work-related stress, grief and loss, bipolar, trauma, substance abuse and addiction.
Fog, Heavy Rain, Snow and Smoke are all elements that can impair ones visibility. Well how about chaos, emotional instability, anxiety, depression, clutter, stress? While it's true heavy rain and dense fog can cloud our physical vision; environmental, behavioral and chemical stressors can cloud our mental visibility. My name is Mabel (May-Bell) and it is my goal and mission for you to become emotionally and mentally healthy while learning effective tools you can apply to every day life’s challenges as you encounter them.
I work with individuals, families and couples experiencing communication breakdowns, depression, anxiety, work-related stress, grief and loss, bipolar, trauma, substance abuse and addiction.
Fog, Heavy Rain, Snow and Smoke are all elements that can impair ones visibility. Well how about chaos, emotional instability, anxiety, depression, clutter, stress? While it's true heavy rain and dense fog can cloud our physical vision; environmental, behavioral and chemical stressors can cloud our mental visibility. My name is Mabel (May-Bell) and it is my goal and mission for you to become emotionally and mentally healthy while learning effective tools you can apply to every day life’s challenges as you encounter them.
(951) 228-5324 View (951) 228-5324
Photo of Sandra Hernandez B., BA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandra Hernandez B.
Marriage & Family Therapist, BA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92506
Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, family conflict, everyday life stress, work stress, cultural identity issues, or complicated changes in your life? Seeking pre-marital counseling? Having difficulties in your relationship? Experienced infidelity? Are you considering divorce or breaking-up with your significant other? Have you lost a loved one? Are you facing other issues that are causing you stress? Life can throw many different things your way, you don’t have to handle them on your own. Together, we can figure out what works for you and how you can make important and meaningful changes in your life.
Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, family conflict, everyday life stress, work stress, cultural identity issues, or complicated changes in your life? Seeking pre-marital counseling? Having difficulties in your relationship? Experienced infidelity? Are you considering divorce or breaking-up with your significant other? Have you lost a loved one? Are you facing other issues that are causing you stress? Life can throw many different things your way, you don’t have to handle them on your own. Together, we can figure out what works for you and how you can make important and meaningful changes in your life.
(951) 801-4827 View (951) 801-4827
Photo of Daniel Morris Siegel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel Morris Siegel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92506
Finding our strengths is an intangible but important part of living. We may find strength from relationships, growing opportunities, self awareness and devoting our energy to values we consider more important than ourselves. In entering therapy, the client's relationship with the therapist can be a step in finding that strength. I specialize in adults, either in individual therapy or with the partner. I also have experience in family therapy involving teenagers and young adults. I have experience in anger management, grief, work related stress and problems of isolation.
Finding our strengths is an intangible but important part of living. We may find strength from relationships, growing opportunities, self awareness and devoting our energy to values we consider more important than ourselves. In entering therapy, the client's relationship with the therapist can be a step in finding that strength. I specialize in adults, either in individual therapy or with the partner. I also have experience in family therapy involving teenagers and young adults. I have experience in anger management, grief, work related stress and problems of isolation.
(951) 397-0322 View (951) 397-0322
Photo of Carlos Lamadrid - Carlos Lamadrid, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carlos Lamadrid, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92506
He is a White Bison facilitator of the Medicine Wheel & 12 steps, and the Mending Broken Hearts: Native American Grief Recovery Workshop, which includes healing from inter-generational/historical trauma and helping others on their journey of recovery.
The use of alcohol and drugs, domestic violence, suicide, chronic grief and loss, internalized oppression, emotional, spiritual, and mental wounds are ALL symptoms not causes of imbalance. In order to heal, a community needs to deal with the causes of historical and generational, unresolved trauma and move toward balance. We acknowledge our inter-connectedness to all that has been created in this life and the unseen world. Healing will take place through the use of cultural and spiritual knowledge including creation stories, ancestral teachings, journeying into balance and wellness, as it takes everyone to heal the community.
He is a White Bison facilitator of the Medicine Wheel & 12 steps, and the Mending Broken Hearts: Native American Grief Recovery Workshop, which includes healing from inter-generational/historical trauma and helping others on their journey of recovery.
The use of alcohol and drugs, domestic violence, suicide, chronic grief and loss, internalized oppression, emotional, spiritual, and mental wounds are ALL symptoms not causes of imbalance. In order to heal, a community needs to deal with the causes of historical and generational, unresolved trauma and move toward balance. We acknowledge our inter-connectedness to all that has been created in this life and the unseen world. Healing will take place through the use of cultural and spiritual knowledge including creation stories, ancestral teachings, journeying into balance and wellness, as it takes everyone to heal the community.
(951) 458-6932 View (951) 458-6932
Photo of Julio Paramo - Heal N Thrive Now Psychotherapy , LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heal N Thrive Now Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92507
I am also a certified EMDR therapist who treats stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, PTSD and much more! I use an eclectic approach from various modalities such as: EMDR, TFCBT, CBT, Parts Work, Seeking Safety among others which involve the body-mind connection.
Do you often feel anxious, depressed, or just feeling "stuck" and don't know why, or can't seem to move forward with your life? Sometimes unresolved issues of the past like complex trauma can be confusing, scary and not easily understood how they may be running your life. If you identify with these challenges, you can begin to take charge today by making small but powerful changes that can ultimately lead to a fulfilled life!
I am also a certified EMDR therapist who treats stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, PTSD and much more! I use an eclectic approach from various modalities such as: EMDR, TFCBT, CBT, Parts Work, Seeking Safety among others which involve the body-mind connection.
Do you often feel anxious, depressed, or just feeling "stuck" and don't know why, or can't seem to move forward with your life? Sometimes unresolved issues of the past like complex trauma can be confusing, scary and not easily understood how they may be running your life. If you identify with these challenges, you can begin to take charge today by making small but powerful changes that can ultimately lead to a fulfilled life!
(951) 338-9264 View (951) 338-9264
Photo of Celia Fernandez-Sutton - Tree of Light Counseling, MSW, LCSW, CAMF, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tree of Light Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CAMF
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92514  (Online Only)
If you or your child are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, adjustment issues, trauma, grief and loss, or low self-esteem I can help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 12 years of experience in the field.
If you or your child are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, adjustment issues, trauma, grief and loss, or low self-esteem I can help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 12 years of experience in the field.
(909) 304-3301 View (909) 304-3301
Photo of Glaser Burkhardt Emdr Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR, IEHP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Glaser Burkhardt Emdr Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR, IEHP
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92506
Therapy does not have to take a long time. My offices are in Riverside & Moreno Valley. I assist individuals & couples to successfully get through their difficult (or ongoing) stage) of their lives to acquire a healthier, more effective perspective of their relationships, their situations, & their lives. My professional background for the past 2 decades include working with adults and adolescents who have experienced trauma, grief & loss, Family/Parenting concerns, relationship issues, Depression, & Anxiety-Related challenges.
Therapy does not have to take a long time. My offices are in Riverside & Moreno Valley. I assist individuals & couples to successfully get through their difficult (or ongoing) stage) of their lives to acquire a healthier, more effective perspective of their relationships, their situations, & their lives. My professional background for the past 2 decades include working with adults and adolescents who have experienced trauma, grief & loss, Family/Parenting concerns, relationship issues, Depression, & Anxiety-Related challenges.
(951) 605-7911 View (951) 605-7911
Photo of Susie VanDyke, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susie VanDyke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92506
I am certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Grief Counseling and have been trained in Shame Counseling, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I).
Hello, I am Susie VanDyke, and I love working with PTSD, trauma, alcohol use, and substance use issues. I especially enjoy working with veterans, first responders, their families, and anyone going through difficult times. I graduated with a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2008 and have over fifteen years of experience in various mental health and hospital settings, with a concentration in military and first responders. I love helping people improve their lives and want them to feel better as quickly as possible. I enjoy helping people who are feeling hopeless about their situations because of tough circumstances.
I am certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Grief Counseling and have been trained in Shame Counseling, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I).
Hello, I am Susie VanDyke, and I love working with PTSD, trauma, alcohol use, and substance use issues. I especially enjoy working with veterans, first responders, their families, and anyone going through difficult times. I graduated with a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2008 and have over fifteen years of experience in various mental health and hospital settings, with a concentration in military and first responders. I love helping people improve their lives and want them to feel better as quickly as possible. I enjoy helping people who are feeling hopeless about their situations because of tough circumstances.
(858) 758-3597 View (858) 758-3597
Photo of Judith Willhide-James, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judith Willhide-James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92507
I am EMDR certified, as well as hold a certificate in Grief Counseling.
Change is difficult. It takes courage, strength, and commitment to want to improve your life. Whether you are wanting to make behavioral, , emotional, spiritual, interpersonal, or health-related changes, I will help you explore these issues in depth. I am a generalist who works with adults and adolescents related to issues of depression, anxiety, and panic insomnia,, PTSD, anger, relationships, parenting, and many other concerns. I consider it an honor to journey with you as you strive to improve yourself, your life and your relationships.
I am EMDR certified, as well as hold a certificate in Grief Counseling.
Change is difficult. It takes courage, strength, and commitment to want to improve your life. Whether you are wanting to make behavioral, , emotional, spiritual, interpersonal, or health-related changes, I will help you explore these issues in depth. I am a generalist who works with adults and adolescents related to issues of depression, anxiety, and panic insomnia,, PTSD, anger, relationships, parenting, and many other concerns. I consider it an honor to journey with you as you strive to improve yourself, your life and your relationships.
(323) 205-7088 View (323) 205-7088
Photo of Thaddeus Wicki, Marriage & Family Therapist
Thaddeus Wicki
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92501
In therapy I will not only provide you with a support but also will assist you in developing problem-solving skills, change problem behaviors and enhance coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management and anger.
"Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending" - Maria Robinson. Today can be the day when you take the first step towards change or it can be the time when you decide to enter a path of growth and well-being. As a therapist, my goal will be to help you in finding wellness and to uncover your true potential. While no one has life without difficult situations or no one can't change their past, still everyone has the ability to learn from their past and the ability resolve current challenges in life.
In therapy I will not only provide you with a support but also will assist you in developing problem-solving skills, change problem behaviors and enhance coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management and anger.
"Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending" - Maria Robinson. Today can be the day when you take the first step towards change or it can be the time when you decide to enter a path of growth and well-being. As a therapist, my goal will be to help you in finding wellness and to uncover your true potential. While no one has life without difficult situations or no one can't change their past, still everyone has the ability to learn from their past and the ability resolve current challenges in life.
(909) 480-3785 View (909) 480-3785
Photo of Geovanna Asturias - Therapy? It's a Thing!, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Therapy? It's a Thing!
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92503
We offer therapeutic services to adults of all ages, helping you navigate life's challenges, improve your relationships, and manage stress and anxiety. Our holistic approach embraces your entire life, including your physical and mental health, sleep, nutrition, exercise, relationships, career, and spirituality, to create a personalized treatment plan. If your child is struggling with depression, anxiety, or social difficulties, seeking professional help can be a valuable step. Children often face challenges due to various reasons such as family changes, school problems, or loss.
We offer therapeutic services to adults of all ages, helping you navigate life's challenges, improve your relationships, and manage stress and anxiety. Our holistic approach embraces your entire life, including your physical and mental health, sleep, nutrition, exercise, relationships, career, and spirituality, to create a personalized treatment plan. If your child is struggling with depression, anxiety, or social difficulties, seeking professional help can be a valuable step. Children often face challenges due to various reasons such as family changes, school problems, or loss.
(657) 216-7976 View (657) 216-7976
Photo of Chyneitha Cook - Dr. Chyneitha Cook | California Teletherapy, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Chyneitha Cook | California Teletherapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92506  (Online Only)
Are you worried, frustrated, or just plain disappointed with certain situations in your life? Perhaps your issues are current, or maybe they have been resurfacing, with no resolution. Seeking help is a big step, but it's a step in the right direction. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and depression. My clients learn to consider all aspects of their functioning as human beings (biological, psychological, spiritual, etc.). I will assist you with developing a plan for working through the past or current situations that are hindering your progress in life, so that you can begin to function more effectively, and thrive.
Are you worried, frustrated, or just plain disappointed with certain situations in your life? Perhaps your issues are current, or maybe they have been resurfacing, with no resolution. Seeking help is a big step, but it's a step in the right direction. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and depression. My clients learn to consider all aspects of their functioning as human beings (biological, psychological, spiritual, etc.). I will assist you with developing a plan for working through the past or current situations that are hindering your progress in life, so that you can begin to function more effectively, and thrive.
(951) 309-2042 View (951) 309-2042
Photo of Jacqueline Gonzalez, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacqueline Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92506  (Online Only)
My name is Jacqueline, and I am passionate about helping individuals and families facing unique life challenges. I have many years of experience working in the mental health field. My approach in therapy is an interactive, non-judgmental, safe place to help meet your goals. I use psychoeducation, CBT, DBT, solution-focused, and other evidence-based modalities. I assist you in gaining self-awareness and tailor treatment plans around your needs. I believe together; we can create a plan for positive lasting change. I strive to provide a safe therapeutic environment that will allow you to express your authentic self.
My name is Jacqueline, and I am passionate about helping individuals and families facing unique life challenges. I have many years of experience working in the mental health field. My approach in therapy is an interactive, non-judgmental, safe place to help meet your goals. I use psychoeducation, CBT, DBT, solution-focused, and other evidence-based modalities. I assist you in gaining self-awareness and tailor treatment plans around your needs. I believe together; we can create a plan for positive lasting change. I strive to provide a safe therapeutic environment that will allow you to express your authentic self.
(909) 325-7556 View (909) 325-7556
Photo of Tonya D Octave - Multicultural Services, Prof Corp, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Multicultural Services, Prof Corp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92505  (Online Only)
Greetings, as a psychotherapist, I specialize in the field of trauma, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. I work with you to move from illness to wellness using an integrative, holistic approach I created. This is based on my last name, “Octaves Method,” published in the first edition, “Heal Thy Mind: Seven Strategies Towards Mental Wellness, Happiness, and Success.” This is available on Amazon for purchase.
Greetings, as a psychotherapist, I specialize in the field of trauma, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. I work with you to move from illness to wellness using an integrative, holistic approach I created. This is based on my last name, “Octaves Method,” published in the first edition, “Heal Thy Mind: Seven Strategies Towards Mental Wellness, Happiness, and Success.” This is available on Amazon for purchase.
(657) 312-4241 View (657) 312-4241
Photo of Shabana Haider, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Shabana Haider
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92504
Are you ready to reclaim your power and embrace your true potential? As a multilingual therapist in Riverside, I am here to empower you on your journey towards personal growth and transformation. Language should never be a barrier to seeking help and support. I am fluent in multiple languages, including I speak Hindi, Gurathi, Puncjabi, and Arabic., ensuring that you can express yourself in the language that resonates most deeply with your inner strength.
Are you ready to reclaim your power and embrace your true potential? As a multilingual therapist in Riverside, I am here to empower you on your journey towards personal growth and transformation. Language should never be a barrier to seeking help and support. I am fluent in multiple languages, including I speak Hindi, Gurathi, Puncjabi, and Arabic., ensuring that you can express yourself in the language that resonates most deeply with your inner strength.
(951) 401-6784 View (951) 401-6784
Photo of Bianey Lopez Gomez, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Bianey Lopez Gomez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92506
Hablo Español.... Are you looking to strengthen your relationships with your partner or yourself? Are you looking to heal past and current wounds? Perhaps you feel you have accomplished many things and yet feel unfulfilled in life. We all deserve to live a fulfilled life, a life with joy, and a life in which we can show up authentically. I work with Latinx individuals and couples in reconnecting to themselves and each. I will walk along your side in this process with cultural & language considerations at your own pace.
Hablo Español.... Are you looking to strengthen your relationships with your partner or yourself? Are you looking to heal past and current wounds? Perhaps you feel you have accomplished many things and yet feel unfulfilled in life. We all deserve to live a fulfilled life, a life with joy, and a life in which we can show up authentically. I work with Latinx individuals and couples in reconnecting to themselves and each. I will walk along your side in this process with cultural & language considerations at your own pace.
(951) 724-5530 View (951) 724-5530
Photo of Chyneitha Cook - Dr. Chyneitha Cook | California Teletherapy, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Chyneitha Cook | California Teletherapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92506  (Online Only)
Are you worried, frustrated, or just plain disappointed with certain situations in your life? Perhaps your issues are current, or maybe they have been resurfacing, with no resolution. Seeking help is a big step, but it's a step in the right direction. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and depression. My clients learn to consider all aspects of their functioning as human beings (biological, psychological, spiritual, etc.). I will assist you with developing a plan for working through the past or current situations that are hindering your progress in life, so that you can begin to function more effectively, and thrive.
Are you worried, frustrated, or just plain disappointed with certain situations in your life? Perhaps your issues are current, or maybe they have been resurfacing, with no resolution. Seeking help is a big step, but it's a step in the right direction. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and depression. My clients learn to consider all aspects of their functioning as human beings (biological, psychological, spiritual, etc.). I will assist you with developing a plan for working through the past or current situations that are hindering your progress in life, so that you can begin to function more effectively, and thrive.
(951) 330-4270 View (951) 330-4270
Photo of Cassondra Rose - Renewing Hope Family Counseling Center, Inc., LCSW, PsyD, AMFT, ACSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Renewing Hope Family Counseling Center, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, PsyD, AMFT, ACSW
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92503
Here at Renewing Hope Family Counseling Center, Inc. we work with individuals dealing with everyday life stressors, individuals discovering their sense of identity, and with various discomforts such as depression, anxiety, relational, and family issues. Let us help improve the community one relationship at a time. We are inclusive and serve a variety of cultures, religions and communities. Each therapist approach is to meet the client where they are at in an open, non-judgmental, quality environment.
Here at Renewing Hope Family Counseling Center, Inc. we work with individuals dealing with everyday life stressors, individuals discovering their sense of identity, and with various discomforts such as depression, anxiety, relational, and family issues. Let us help improve the community one relationship at a time. We are inclusive and serve a variety of cultures, religions and communities. Each therapist approach is to meet the client where they are at in an open, non-judgmental, quality environment.
(951) 356-9932 View (951) 356-9932
Photo of Ashley Harrell Associate Mft #357567, MA, MEd, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Ashley Harrell Associate Mft #357567
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92508  (Online Only)
Navigating life and its various challenges is nothing short of arduous. The demands that we encounter daily can seem burdensome and tedious; overwhelm us to the point where we feel like we are stuck or incapable of coping. In fact, managing our diverse roles and responsibilities let alone, our well-being becomes grueling. So, what do you do? Well, by seeking counseling you have already taken the first step. As your therapist, we will work together to address your concerns and formulate a plan of action. I believe in an eclectic, integrative approach in the therapies I employ.
Navigating life and its various challenges is nothing short of arduous. The demands that we encounter daily can seem burdensome and tedious; overwhelm us to the point where we feel like we are stuck or incapable of coping. In fact, managing our diverse roles and responsibilities let alone, our well-being becomes grueling. So, what do you do? Well, by seeking counseling you have already taken the first step. As your therapist, we will work together to address your concerns and formulate a plan of action. I believe in an eclectic, integrative approach in the therapies I employ.
(951) 904-3411 View (951) 904-3411
Sione Tupou
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MBA, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92506
Hello, I'm Sione, and I’m really glad you’re considering therapy as part of your journey. Taking that first step is no small feat, and I'm here to offer a space where you can feel safe, supported, and truly understood. Whether you're facing life's ups and downs or seeking affirmation as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I’m here to walk with you. Therapy isn’t just about tackling problems; it’s about discovering who you are and tapping into the strength you already possess.
Hello, I'm Sione, and I’m really glad you’re considering therapy as part of your journey. Taking that first step is no small feat, and I'm here to offer a space where you can feel safe, supported, and truly understood. Whether you're facing life's ups and downs or seeking affirmation as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I’m here to walk with you. Therapy isn’t just about tackling problems; it’s about discovering who you are and tapping into the strength you already possess.
(951) 903-5529 View (951) 903-5529
1
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.