Grief Therapists in San Marino, CA

Photo of June Shigeno - Center for Marriage & Family Counseling, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Center for Marriage & Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108  (Online Only)
I work with couples, individuals and families. I was born and raised in Japan and speak Japanese as well as English. I've been trained in grief & loss issues, as well as trauma issues. I'm a certified EFT (Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy:http://www.laceft.org/) therapist and also a certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist. I am also trained in a very effective and deep processing model called, AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy).
I work with couples, individuals and families. I was born and raised in Japan and speak Japanese as well as English. I've been trained in grief & loss issues, as well as trauma issues. I'm a certified EFT (Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy:http://www.laceft.org/) therapist and also a certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist. I am also trained in a very effective and deep processing model called, AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy).
(626) 539-9784 View (626) 539-9784
Photo of David Highfill, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Highfill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
I have over 28 years experience in many areas including grief & loss, transplant, chronic illness adjustment for you & your family, congenital heart dx, HIV/AIDS, LGBTQ+, relationships, & professional lifestyle management.
Many of you will experience dramatic and sometimes shocking changes in your or your loved one's health, relationships or careers. I have over 28 years of experience helping people and their families cope with a wide variety of chronic and terminal illness, relationship changes, adjustment, grief and loss. Using your strengths, I will help you work through these difficult changes to help you adjust to their impact on you and your loved ones.
I have over 28 years experience in many areas including grief & loss, transplant, chronic illness adjustment for you & your family, congenital heart dx, HIV/AIDS, LGBTQ+, relationships, & professional lifestyle management.
Many of you will experience dramatic and sometimes shocking changes in your or your loved one's health, relationships or careers. I have over 28 years of experience helping people and their families cope with a wide variety of chronic and terminal illness, relationship changes, adjustment, grief and loss. Using your strengths, I will help you work through these difficult changes to help you adjust to their impact on you and your loved ones.
(626) 594-4648 View (626) 594-4648
Photo of Jennifer R Levin, MFT, PhD, MFC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer R Levin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD, MFC
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
In addition, I specialize in working with people who are living with serious illness or living in the midst of grief.
As a therapist I have witnessed healing and its splendor in the darkest of circumstances and am honored when individuals choose to embark on this journey with me. I know the decision to enter therapy is not always easy. Therapy is not easy. But therapy heals. When you enter therapy you put forth a willingness to acknowledge painful emotions and circumstances and a readiness to explore life events that are often uncomfortable, sometimes even paralyzing. But the insight and meaning you will gain from therapy will lead to transformation, comfort and growth.
In addition, I specialize in working with people who are living with serious illness or living in the midst of grief.
As a therapist I have witnessed healing and its splendor in the darkest of circumstances and am honored when individuals choose to embark on this journey with me. I know the decision to enter therapy is not always easy. Therapy is not easy. But therapy heals. When you enter therapy you put forth a willingness to acknowledge painful emotions and circumstances and a readiness to explore life events that are often uncomfortable, sometimes even paralyzing. But the insight and meaning you will gain from therapy will lead to transformation, comfort and growth.
(626) 465-7716 View (626) 465-7716
Photo of Iris Haas-Biel, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Iris Haas-Biel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
I understand that navigating the world we live in can be simultaneously rewarding and painful. At times making the right choice can feel like a matter of life and death, and sometimes it is. We are all constantly juggling life transitions, relationships, and regular mundane everyday commitments. A greater understanding of the relationship you have with yourself, your history, and the world around you can be integral to a balanced existence.
I understand that navigating the world we live in can be simultaneously rewarding and painful. At times making the right choice can feel like a matter of life and death, and sometimes it is. We are all constantly juggling life transitions, relationships, and regular mundane everyday commitments. A greater understanding of the relationship you have with yourself, your history, and the world around you can be integral to a balanced existence.
(818) 252-9120 View (818) 252-9120
Photo of Christine Kay Wong, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Kay Wong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
I specialize in supporting burnout, cultural stress, grief, trauma, and stress management.
Have you hit a point where life's demands leave you drained and empty —despite following all the "right" steps for a fulfilling life? Are you going through the motions, lacking passion, and being shaped by others' expectations? Have you lost touch with your true self? Is confidence replaced by self-doubt and an inner voice whispers inadequacy? Professional support can ease the struggle toward your dream life in a world expecting self-navigation. Therapy with me is like a deep conversation with a friend.
I specialize in supporting burnout, cultural stress, grief, trauma, and stress management.
Have you hit a point where life's demands leave you drained and empty —despite following all the "right" steps for a fulfilling life? Are you going through the motions, lacking passion, and being shaped by others' expectations? Have you lost touch with your true self? Is confidence replaced by self-doubt and an inner voice whispers inadequacy? Professional support can ease the struggle toward your dream life in a world expecting self-navigation. Therapy with me is like a deep conversation with a friend.
(626) 822-8853 View (626) 822-8853
Photo of Kat O'Malley, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kat O'Malley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
I see clients of all ages as well as couples, and my specialties are LGBT+ affirmative therapy, grief work, and working with neurodivergent populations (Autistic & ADHD).
You are already taking the first step on a transformative journey by advocating for yourself and looking into therapy! Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, relationship stress, PTSD, or want to gain a better insight to your patterns and emotions, therapy can bring you closer to coming home to your authentic self and living the life you want. There is a proverb that states if you want to go fast go alone, but to go far, you must go together. Let’s go together to find the right pathways out of the woods as we untangle your mental knots, let go of what is no longer serving you, and help you write your own narrative.
I see clients of all ages as well as couples, and my specialties are LGBT+ affirmative therapy, grief work, and working with neurodivergent populations (Autistic & ADHD).
You are already taking the first step on a transformative journey by advocating for yourself and looking into therapy! Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, relationship stress, PTSD, or want to gain a better insight to your patterns and emotions, therapy can bring you closer to coming home to your authentic self and living the life you want. There is a proverb that states if you want to go fast go alone, but to go far, you must go together. Let’s go together to find the right pathways out of the woods as we untangle your mental knots, let go of what is no longer serving you, and help you write your own narrative.
(323) 990-8714 View (323) 990-8714
Photo of Canzi Wang, PhD, Psychologist
Canzi Wang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
I’m glad you are here! Looking for a therapist means you’ve taken the initiative to ask for help and seek for change. Many people say that they already start to feel better after making their first appointment. Whether you are feeling stuck or blocked to achieve your goals, losing self-confidence and motivation; or having difficulty coping with a recent loss, a big life change; or finding yourself feeling more anxious, sad, angry, or having more arguments and feeling unsatisfied in your significant relationships; or you are interested in figuring out who you are and feel more connected with yourself; I am here for you.
I’m glad you are here! Looking for a therapist means you’ve taken the initiative to ask for help and seek for change. Many people say that they already start to feel better after making their first appointment. Whether you are feeling stuck or blocked to achieve your goals, losing self-confidence and motivation; or having difficulty coping with a recent loss, a big life change; or finding yourself feeling more anxious, sad, angry, or having more arguments and feeling unsatisfied in your significant relationships; or you are interested in figuring out who you are and feel more connected with yourself; I am here for you.
(626) 317-6947 View (626) 317-6947
Photo of Douglas Thomas, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Douglas Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
If you are gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender, living in a mainstream culture that ignores or rejects the unique gifts of your identity can lead to a subtle loss of soul.
I have the knowledge and skill to help you with over 24 years' experience. My clients find a comfortable and supportive atmosphere in session, which usually leads to rapid progress toward their goals. I believe people make meaningful changes in their lives by working in partnership with their therapist. Depth psychology offers the unique opportunity to improve the circumstances of your outer life through the richness and creativity of your inner life. Call today and explore the possibilities of how therapy can help you.
If you are gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender, living in a mainstream culture that ignores or rejects the unique gifts of your identity can lead to a subtle loss of soul.
I have the knowledge and skill to help you with over 24 years' experience. My clients find a comfortable and supportive atmosphere in session, which usually leads to rapid progress toward their goals. I believe people make meaningful changes in their lives by working in partnership with their therapist. Depth psychology offers the unique opportunity to improve the circumstances of your outer life through the richness and creativity of your inner life. Call today and explore the possibilities of how therapy can help you.
(626) 593-9770 View (626) 593-9770
Photo of Arolyn Burns, LPCC, LMFT, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Arolyn Burns
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPCC, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
I treat: Stress, Depression, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Grief & Loss, Self Esteem, Adjustment Issues, & PTSD.
If you are overwhelmed, lonely, worried, having panic attacks or PTSD triggered, it can be helpful to talk to a therapist who allows You to focus on Your needs exclusively & process your challenges. Either In Person or Online therapy can provide a safe haven & provide a healthy connection. Covid may be a catalyst to seeking therapy or you may want to take advantage of this time to focus other aspects of your life such as past trauma, your approach to relationships, conflict at work or how you care for yourself. Practicing since 1997 & constantly learning, I am qualified & experienced to help you overcome mental & emotional blocks.
I treat: Stress, Depression, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Grief & Loss, Self Esteem, Adjustment Issues, & PTSD.
If you are overwhelmed, lonely, worried, having panic attacks or PTSD triggered, it can be helpful to talk to a therapist who allows You to focus on Your needs exclusively & process your challenges. Either In Person or Online therapy can provide a safe haven & provide a healthy connection. Covid may be a catalyst to seeking therapy or you may want to take advantage of this time to focus other aspects of your life such as past trauma, your approach to relationships, conflict at work or how you care for yourself. Practicing since 1997 & constantly learning, I am qualified & experienced to help you overcome mental & emotional blocks.
(833) 426-0303 View (833) 426-0303
Photo of Sam Alibrando - Alibrando Psychological Consulting, PhD, Psychologist
Alibrando Psychological Consulting
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
We also specialize in addictions (especially sex addiction), depression, couple and relationships, divorce/ grief recovery, and organizational consulting, executive coaching and leadership transformation.
Our ideal client is an individual, couple or organization that is interested in some sort of transformation and needs an experienced facilitator and partner in that change. I have worked as a therapist for over 35 years and a business consultant for over 25 years. I have two master degrees and one doctorate degree in counseling and clinical psychology. More importantly, however, I have invested in my own personal growth, after all, the emotional maturity of the therapist/consultant is the most important attribute they can have.
We also specialize in addictions (especially sex addiction), depression, couple and relationships, divorce/ grief recovery, and organizational consulting, executive coaching and leadership transformation.
Our ideal client is an individual, couple or organization that is interested in some sort of transformation and needs an experienced facilitator and partner in that change. I have worked as a therapist for over 35 years and a business consultant for over 25 years. I have two master degrees and one doctorate degree in counseling and clinical psychology. More importantly, however, I have invested in my own personal growth, after all, the emotional maturity of the therapist/consultant is the most important attribute they can have.
(626) 249-0555 View (626) 249-0555
Photo of Tom Badzey, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tom Badzey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
I specialize with young adults and couples, especially those dealing with anxiety, depression, job/school stress and major life transitions ( grief/ loss, job changes, new/ending relationships, chronic pain/medical problems).
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, sadness or relationship problems, I'm here to help. I offer a calm, safe and collaborative therapeutic experience to assist you in finding real solutions that you can start using now. I can help you better understand the challenges you face, while working with you to identify and implement resources and proven methods that you can start using to move your life and relationships in positive directions.
I specialize with young adults and couples, especially those dealing with anxiety, depression, job/school stress and major life transitions ( grief/ loss, job changes, new/ending relationships, chronic pain/medical problems).
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, sadness or relationship problems, I'm here to help. I offer a calm, safe and collaborative therapeutic experience to assist you in finding real solutions that you can start using now. I can help you better understand the challenges you face, while working with you to identify and implement resources and proven methods that you can start using to move your life and relationships in positive directions.
(626) 513-0042 View (626) 513-0042
Photo of Gently Ang, PhD, Psychologist
Gently Ang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
Waitlist for new clients
I am a clinical psychologist with extensive background in both psychotherapy and assessment. Many of the clients I have worked with in psychotherapy have backgrounds of abuse and trauma, grief and loss, depression and anxiety, relationship breakdowns, and/or adjustment difficulties to career and life transitions. My psychotherapy approach draws from humanistic relational psychoanalysis, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and a biopsychosocial view of persons. I work collaboratively with my clients to set the goals and pace of the psychotherapy process.
I am a clinical psychologist with extensive background in both psychotherapy and assessment. Many of the clients I have worked with in psychotherapy have backgrounds of abuse and trauma, grief and loss, depression and anxiety, relationship breakdowns, and/or adjustment difficulties to career and life transitions. My psychotherapy approach draws from humanistic relational psychoanalysis, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and a biopsychosocial view of persons. I work collaboratively with my clients to set the goals and pace of the psychotherapy process.
(626) 310-4562 View (626) 310-4562
Photo of Jacqueline Woods, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacqueline Woods
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108  (Online Only)
My name is Jacqueline Woods and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist and the founder of Pacific Trauma Treatment Center. I have 32 years of experience doing somatic work with clients and 24 years providing integrative mental health services to adults, adolescents, and children. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD and other anxiety disorders, such as specific and general phobias, generalized anxiety, panic disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I also treat various depressive and mood disorders, bereavement, chronic pain, Dizziness and vertigo, and I work with couples.
My name is Jacqueline Woods and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist and the founder of Pacific Trauma Treatment Center. I have 32 years of experience doing somatic work with clients and 24 years providing integrative mental health services to adults, adolescents, and children. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD and other anxiety disorders, such as specific and general phobias, generalized anxiety, panic disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I also treat various depressive and mood disorders, bereavement, chronic pain, Dizziness and vertigo, and I work with couples.
(626) 709-4507 View (626) 709-4507
Photo of Richard LaBrie, PsyD, Psychologist
Richard LaBrie
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
I work primarily with trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, identity exploration, autism spectrum disorder, self-esteem, grief and loss, and other concerns.
I believe everyone's feelings, personal history, strengths, and struggles are unique. At the same time, we are all a part of the connected, human story. But sometimes we can feel alone in our suffering, or even when we try and achieve positive goals. I work with adults, couples, and families by using my diverse training in a way that fits their particular styles and needs. Through relational connection, collaborating on concrete coping skills, and exploration of current and past patterns, I have seen tremendous healing in my partnership with clients.
I work primarily with trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, identity exploration, autism spectrum disorder, self-esteem, grief and loss, and other concerns.
I believe everyone's feelings, personal history, strengths, and struggles are unique. At the same time, we are all a part of the connected, human story. But sometimes we can feel alone in our suffering, or even when we try and achieve positive goals. I work with adults, couples, and families by using my diverse training in a way that fits their particular styles and needs. Through relational connection, collaborating on concrete coping skills, and exploration of current and past patterns, I have seen tremendous healing in my partnership with clients.
(626) 765-3076 View (626) 765-3076
Photo of Mia Blakely-Brown, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mia Blakely-Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
Among my areas of expertise are Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Loss and Grief issues, Stress Management, Work and Career issues and Addiction & Recovery.
The ultimate goal of therapy is to heal and experience personal growth while being supported throughout the process. I provide a nurturing supportive environment and allow you the opportunity to explore the challenging issues you face in your daily life.
Among my areas of expertise are Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Loss and Grief issues, Stress Management, Work and Career issues and Addiction & Recovery.
The ultimate goal of therapy is to heal and experience personal growth while being supported throughout the process. I provide a nurturing supportive environment and allow you the opportunity to explore the challenging issues you face in your daily life.
(626) 414-5272 View (626) 414-5272
Photo of Rebecca Bruno, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Bruno
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
I specialize in depth and somatic psychotherapies that support anxiety, persistent depression, complex trauma, self esteem issues, relationship issues, dream tending, adoption issues, attachment wounds, grief, religious trauma, life transitions, and spiritual growth.
It’s natural to get stuck sometimes. When you feel lost, overwhelmed, isolated, or depleted, a space to express yourself genuinely with a witness can be a soulful haven. Many people I see seek relief, change, growth, connection, and betterment in their lives. They are interested in tending to what has been holding them back and gaining the resources needed to heal wounded parts. Finding a trusted ally is an important step in receiving the help that you need to live fully, as you truly are. I believe in the medicinal properties of the therapeutic relationship and it is my honor to be a supportive companion along my clients’ journeys.
I specialize in depth and somatic psychotherapies that support anxiety, persistent depression, complex trauma, self esteem issues, relationship issues, dream tending, adoption issues, attachment wounds, grief, religious trauma, life transitions, and spiritual growth.
It’s natural to get stuck sometimes. When you feel lost, overwhelmed, isolated, or depleted, a space to express yourself genuinely with a witness can be a soulful haven. Many people I see seek relief, change, growth, connection, and betterment in their lives. They are interested in tending to what has been holding them back and gaining the resources needed to heal wounded parts. Finding a trusted ally is an important step in receiving the help that you need to live fully, as you truly are. I believe in the medicinal properties of the therapeutic relationship and it is my honor to be a supportive companion along my clients’ journeys.
(323) 615-1426 View (323) 615-1426
Photo of Kamran Eshtehardi, PhD, Psychologist
Kamran Eshtehardi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
Life is a canvas, and living is a creative process—an art form. Our mental health struggles can serve as paints for our canvas or act as binds that tie our hands. I help adults and teenagers unbind themselves, and paint their ways to fulfillment. I have expertise treating anxiety, depression, grief, and other struggles. My approach to therapy is collaborative, creative, and rooted in curiosity. These factors are key to a growth-inspiring therapeutic relationship. I strive to help clients go beyond behavior change to deeper self-understanding. Whether your aim is to navigate struggles, or achieve other goals, I may be able to help.
Life is a canvas, and living is a creative process—an art form. Our mental health struggles can serve as paints for our canvas or act as binds that tie our hands. I help adults and teenagers unbind themselves, and paint their ways to fulfillment. I have expertise treating anxiety, depression, grief, and other struggles. My approach to therapy is collaborative, creative, and rooted in curiosity. These factors are key to a growth-inspiring therapeutic relationship. I strive to help clients go beyond behavior change to deeper self-understanding. Whether your aim is to navigate struggles, or achieve other goals, I may be able to help.
(626) 469-7237 View (626) 469-7237
Photo of Evelina Mills, PsyD, Psychologist
Evelina Mills
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and I believe that prioritizing our mental well-being is essential for leading a fulfilling life. My clients experience various challenges including anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, grief, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships (family, platonic, romantic), sexuality, and work-life balance.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and I believe that prioritizing our mental well-being is essential for leading a fulfilling life. My clients experience various challenges including anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, grief, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships (family, platonic, romantic), sexuality, and work-life balance.
(626) 602-1448 View (626) 602-1448
Photo of Jorgie Wu, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jorgie Wu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
I work with Asian American and BIPOC individuals who are navigating anxiety, depression, complex trauma, grief/ loss, internal conflict, relationship issues, and family conflict.
You feel stuck, lonely, or burnt out. You find yourself feeling overwhelmed by life's demands and others' expectations. You imagine, what if you had options, an opportunity for relief, or permission to show up differently. You're really good at putting the needs of others above your own, but you find yourself having trouble identifying and advocating for your own needs. Many of my clients describe themselves as people pleasing, high achieving, and overthinking. Therapy with me is an opportunity to honor the parts of you which seek to feel good enough, self-compassionate, and more at ease.
I work with Asian American and BIPOC individuals who are navigating anxiety, depression, complex trauma, grief/ loss, internal conflict, relationship issues, and family conflict.
You feel stuck, lonely, or burnt out. You find yourself feeling overwhelmed by life's demands and others' expectations. You imagine, what if you had options, an opportunity for relief, or permission to show up differently. You're really good at putting the needs of others above your own, but you find yourself having trouble identifying and advocating for your own needs. Many of my clients describe themselves as people pleasing, high achieving, and overthinking. Therapy with me is an opportunity to honor the parts of you which seek to feel good enough, self-compassionate, and more at ease.
(626) 217-2341 View (626) 217-2341
Photo of Elizabeth Shon, PhD, Psychologist
Elizabeth Shon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
I have had the privilege of working with adults and couples for over 37 years, helping with a wide range of issues including: depression, anxiety, self esteem, relationships, stress, ageing, family of origin issues, cross cultural issues, identity, grief/ loss and mild addictions.
I have had the privilege of working with adults and couples for over 37 years, helping with a wide range of issues including: depression, anxiety, self esteem, relationships, stress, ageing, family of origin issues, cross cultural issues, identity, grief/ loss and mild addictions.
(626) 671-4930 View (626) 671-4930
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.