Photo of Laurel Connell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Laurel Connell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Beginnings… Endings…. And the breaths in between… I support women through life transitions. Pregnancy and new parenthood, an experience of loss, or a profound life event. People who find me often have experienced trauma, loss or are navigating a challenging life transition. I help with integrating these experiences and moving forward. Our work together is based on a mindful and gentle approach, as we work with your mind and body. My approach is trauma informed, with a focus on nervous system regulation. The state of our nervous system directly impacts the way we think, feel and experience our life.
Beginnings… Endings…. And the breaths in between… I support women through life transitions. Pregnancy and new parenthood, an experience of loss, or a profound life event. People who find me often have experienced trauma, loss or are navigating a challenging life transition. I help with integrating these experiences and moving forward. Our work together is based on a mindful and gentle approach, as we work with your mind and body. My approach is trauma informed, with a focus on nervous system regulation. The state of our nervous system directly impacts the way we think, feel and experience our life.
(805) 242-0054 View (805) 242-0054
Photo of Jean Wolfe Powers Psychotherapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Jean Wolfe Powers Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMC, ACC
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93108  (Online Only)
My extensive work with trauma, grief, and loss has earned worldwide attention spanning across four decades. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and International Certified Life Coach, I work with individuals, families, and groups to transform mental and emotional challenges into experiences of thriving health and well-being. My early career defining work began in the 80’s alongside John Bradshaw and focused on addiction, recovery, and codependency. Together with a team of cutting-edge psychotherapists, I developed groundbreaking techniques for understanding trauma: when it starts, how it affects the brain, and how to heal.
My extensive work with trauma, grief, and loss has earned worldwide attention spanning across four decades. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and International Certified Life Coach, I work with individuals, families, and groups to transform mental and emotional challenges into experiences of thriving health and well-being. My early career defining work began in the 80’s alongside John Bradshaw and focused on addiction, recovery, and codependency. Together with a team of cutting-edge psychotherapists, I developed groundbreaking techniques for understanding trauma: when it starts, how it affects the brain, and how to heal.
(805) 283-6695 View (805) 283-6695
Photo of Pacific Emotional Wellness, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Pacific Emotional Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, AMFT, MA, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Our therapists have experience working with individuals and couples who are impacted by trauma, cancer, grief/loss, family dynamics/relationships, postpartum emotions and motherhood/parenting, anxiety, depression, etc.
Pacific Emotional Wellness is a group therapy practice led by Camille Johnson, and consists of several skilled therapists including Rachel Cha, Grace Peavy, Audrey DeFrisco, Julie Jennings, Debbie Whitney, Cassidy Pierce, Téa Main, Griff Jennings, and Gabriel Solla. We take a deep and soulful approach to walking alongside our clients on their journey of growth and healing. Whether you are feeling stuck in the rut of life, dealing with grief/loss, having relationship concerns, experienced a trauma, etc., we are here for you no matter what stage of your healing journey you are in.
Our therapists have experience working with individuals and couples who are impacted by trauma, cancer, grief/loss, family dynamics/relationships, postpartum emotions and motherhood/parenting, anxiety, depression, etc.
Pacific Emotional Wellness is a group therapy practice led by Camille Johnson, and consists of several skilled therapists including Rachel Cha, Grace Peavy, Audrey DeFrisco, Julie Jennings, Debbie Whitney, Cassidy Pierce, Téa Main, Griff Jennings, and Gabriel Solla. We take a deep and soulful approach to walking alongside our clients on their journey of growth and healing. Whether you are feeling stuck in the rut of life, dealing with grief/loss, having relationship concerns, experienced a trauma, etc., we are here for you no matter what stage of your healing journey you are in.
(805) 519-8468 View (805) 519-8468
Photo of Lori Tucker Howard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Lori Tucker Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93103  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing the loss of a loved one, a relationship or a job, or perhaps you have lost your sense of self and just feel stuck? Are you struggling with marriage or relationship issues or transitions in life and just don't know how to move forward? You are not alone. I believe that we all can achieve a deeper understanding of ourselves and find purpose within a safe relationship which therapy can provide.
Are you experiencing the loss of a loved one, a relationship or a job, or perhaps you have lost your sense of self and just feel stuck? Are you struggling with marriage or relationship issues or transitions in life and just don't know how to move forward? You are not alone. I believe that we all can achieve a deeper understanding of ourselves and find purpose within a safe relationship which therapy can provide.
(669) 232-8085 View (669) 232-8085
Photo of Jean Densmore John, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Jean Densmore John
Psychologist, PhD, MS, RDN
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93110  (Online Only)
Are you longing for joy, passion, creativity and a sense of wholeness? Do you want to be energetically free from physical and/or emotional pain? Do you want to recover fully from an eating disorder or disordered eating that is affecting the quality of your life? Do you want to lose or gain weight? Do you want to be more creatively expressed? Does anxiety and fear hold you back from developing meaningful relationships? Perhaps you are suffering from infertility? Feelings of loss and longing? Feeling stuck? I would love to work with you, to help you move from inside out.
Are you longing for joy, passion, creativity and a sense of wholeness? Do you want to be energetically free from physical and/or emotional pain? Do you want to recover fully from an eating disorder or disordered eating that is affecting the quality of your life? Do you want to lose or gain weight? Do you want to be more creatively expressed? Does anxiety and fear hold you back from developing meaningful relationships? Perhaps you are suffering from infertility? Feelings of loss and longing? Feeling stuck? I would love to work with you, to help you move from inside out.
(805) 468-4871 View (805) 468-4871
Photo of Jacquelyn Meissner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Jacquelyn Meissner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
My areas of specialty include dealing with interpersonal conflict, loss, divorce, trust issues, chronic illness, depression, trauma, anxiety, substance abuse, domestic violence and other life stressors that can be overwhelming.
Life can get very complicated and challenging sometimes. My commitment to you is to provide a supportive place for us to collaboratively explore the challenges you are experiencing and the areas of your life you wish to change. If you are struggling to come to terms with your past or feel as if something is preventing you from living the life you want I invite you to explore this from a place of curiosity without judgment. As a bilingual and multicultural therapist I strive to support individuals and couples who are experiencing difficult life events.
My areas of specialty include dealing with interpersonal conflict, loss, divorce, trust issues, chronic illness, depression, trauma, anxiety, substance abuse, domestic violence and other life stressors that can be overwhelming.
Life can get very complicated and challenging sometimes. My commitment to you is to provide a supportive place for us to collaboratively explore the challenges you are experiencing and the areas of your life you wish to change. If you are struggling to come to terms with your past or feel as if something is preventing you from living the life you want I invite you to explore this from a place of curiosity without judgment. As a bilingual and multicultural therapist I strive to support individuals and couples who are experiencing difficult life events.
(805) 719-7308 View (805) 719-7308
Photo of Nicole A. Botaitis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Nicole A. Botaitis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I've counseled 100's of adults experiencing a range of problems from relationships, life mentoring, boundary & assertive setting, stress, anxiety, self-esteem, anger, loss & grief, depression, trauma, alcohol/substance use and abuse.
Do you feel like you are in a dark space, disconnected in your relationships, or experiencing a life change that is devastating or overwhelming? I am a life transition & relationship therapist and help clients overcome emotionally taxing times in order to achieve fulfilling lives. Throughout the counseling process I’m a non-judgmental support & guide. I help my clients successfully move out of being stuck & stagnant & bring balance to their life. Upon completion you will gain clarity around what you really want, achieve empowerment & ultimately transformation so that you can be free of angst & attain fulfillment & peace.
I've counseled 100's of adults experiencing a range of problems from relationships, life mentoring, boundary & assertive setting, stress, anxiety, self-esteem, anger, loss & grief, depression, trauma, alcohol/substance use and abuse.
Do you feel like you are in a dark space, disconnected in your relationships, or experiencing a life change that is devastating or overwhelming? I am a life transition & relationship therapist and help clients overcome emotionally taxing times in order to achieve fulfilling lives. Throughout the counseling process I’m a non-judgmental support & guide. I help my clients successfully move out of being stuck & stagnant & bring balance to their life. Upon completion you will gain clarity around what you really want, achieve empowerment & ultimately transformation so that you can be free of angst & attain fulfillment & peace.
(805) 360-4265 View (805) 360-4265
Photo of Joann Olejnik, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Joann Olejnik
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. I can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing. Licensed to practice in: California.
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. I can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing. Licensed to practice in: California.
(661) 370-2800 View (661) 370-2800
Photo of Radhule Weininger, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Radhule Weininger
Psychologist, PhD, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Waitlist for new clients
I offer, besides a caring psychotherapeutic relationship, a combined psychodynamic and Buddhist approach to psychology. Mindfulness meditation and therapy create a container to address feelings of anxiety, depression, worries about your relationships, existential and spiritual questions and also difficult themes like guilt, shame, embarrassment, fear, loneliness, loss, anger, despair and disgrace. I welcome talking about spiritual or existential themes like lack of meaning or connectedness, a longing for greater freedom, sense of fulfilled spirituality, a life with compassion and wisdom. I welcome clients from diverse ethnic, cultural and international backgrounds. LTBG community very welcome.
I offer, besides a caring psychotherapeutic relationship, a combined psychodynamic and Buddhist approach to psychology. Mindfulness meditation and therapy create a container to address feelings of anxiety, depression, worries about your relationships, existential and spiritual questions and also difficult themes like guilt, shame, embarrassment, fear, loneliness, loss, anger, despair and disgrace. I welcome talking about spiritual or existential themes like lack of meaning or connectedness, a longing for greater freedom, sense of fulfilled spirituality, a life with compassion and wisdom. I welcome clients from diverse ethnic, cultural and international backgrounds. LTBG community very welcome.
(805) 409-8250 View (805) 409-8250
Photo of Grace Tobin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Barbara, CA
Grace Tobin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
All are welcome here! In my office I serve a diverse range of individuals and couples moving through life transitions, anxiety, grief, uncertainty, divorce, infidelity, anger, disappointment... the list goes on. I cultivate a space that heals, orients you toward growth, makes you feel safe and allows you to reflect inwards. If you're holding guilt, shame, resentment, fear... I welcome you. This space is yours. As a couples therapist I aim to teach you how to "fight right", move from gridlock to compromise, nurture the foundation of your relationship and rekindle your friendship.
All are welcome here! In my office I serve a diverse range of individuals and couples moving through life transitions, anxiety, grief, uncertainty, divorce, infidelity, anger, disappointment... the list goes on. I cultivate a space that heals, orients you toward growth, makes you feel safe and allows you to reflect inwards. If you're holding guilt, shame, resentment, fear... I welcome you. This space is yours. As a couples therapist I aim to teach you how to "fight right", move from gridlock to compromise, nurture the foundation of your relationship and rekindle your friendship.
(805) 334-8591 View (805) 334-8591
Photo of Emily Fleck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Emily Fleck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
EMDR is used for trauma, addiction, anxiety and loss.
There are many reasons people seek therapy. Most likely, you're here because you're feeling out of balance in some aspect of your life. You may be looking for better ways to cope with depression or anxiety, change patterns that lead to unhealthy behaviors or relationships, or heal from a difficult or traumatic experience. Therapy can help you gain insight about yourself, increase your sense of confidence, or help you explore a new life path with courage and intention. My hope is to provide support, tools, and encouragement to help you find greater balance, authenticity, and overall well-being.
EMDR is used for trauma, addiction, anxiety and loss.
There are many reasons people seek therapy. Most likely, you're here because you're feeling out of balance in some aspect of your life. You may be looking for better ways to cope with depression or anxiety, change patterns that lead to unhealthy behaviors or relationships, or heal from a difficult or traumatic experience. Therapy can help you gain insight about yourself, increase your sense of confidence, or help you explore a new life path with courage and intention. My hope is to provide support, tools, and encouragement to help you find greater balance, authenticity, and overall well-being.
(805) 856-6736 View (805) 856-6736
Photo of Dre McGee Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Dre McGee Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I understand that the first step in seeking help can be overwhelming or even scary. I have a great respect for those who seek to improve their quality of life. My life's work is dedicated to help facilitate that process and help collaborate to create clarity. I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist providing psychotherapy to individuals and couples. I work and have experience with a wide variety of situations and life issues; depression, anxiety, transitions, burnout, relationship dynamics, adoption, and more. Specialties of mine include premarital counseling, young adult/college age concerns & transitions, EMDR, grief & polyam couples.
I understand that the first step in seeking help can be overwhelming or even scary. I have a great respect for those who seek to improve their quality of life. My life's work is dedicated to help facilitate that process and help collaborate to create clarity. I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist providing psychotherapy to individuals and couples. I work and have experience with a wide variety of situations and life issues; depression, anxiety, transitions, burnout, relationship dynamics, adoption, and more. Specialties of mine include premarital counseling, young adult/college age concerns & transitions, EMDR, grief & polyam couples.
(805) 290-1533 View (805) 290-1533
Photo of Natasha Quintero, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Natasha Quintero
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Currently accepting new clients aged 12 years and older. The human condition is filled with interactions, exchanges, and events that can lead to debilitating stress, lack of focus, despair, and a sense of total loss. These adverse experiences do not define us, but they can lead to the development of maladaptive thoughts, and behaviors. I look at your transgenerational resilience and foster growth, healing, and recovery. My main objective is to support you in the various stages of change, with my professional & human skills. I look forward to joining you on your journey via in person care or via telehealth.
Currently accepting new clients aged 12 years and older. The human condition is filled with interactions, exchanges, and events that can lead to debilitating stress, lack of focus, despair, and a sense of total loss. These adverse experiences do not define us, but they can lead to the development of maladaptive thoughts, and behaviors. I look at your transgenerational resilience and foster growth, healing, and recovery. My main objective is to support you in the various stages of change, with my professional & human skills. I look forward to joining you on your journey via in person care or via telehealth.
(805) 800-8667 View (805) 800-8667
Photo of Suzanne Grace, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Suzanne Grace
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
When dealing with trauma from pre- or post-divorce, childbirth, loss or trying to manage motherhood (incl post-partum issues), career challenges, or if you are feeling stuck, sad, confused, or anxious, I will aid you in identifying those obstacles that stand in the way of reaching your goals.
My desire is to help you live a full life, to listen openly and without bias and to understand you outside of your problems; to help you see that you have strengths and resources that will help you get through this difficult time or the challenges you face. My goal is to help you feel hopeful again. As a couple's therapist, (I also am a collaborative divorce therapist, mediator, coach, and parent coordinator) my goal is to help the couple heal or learn how to move forward in a positive manner. I am passionate about women's issues, including peri- and post-partum, loss, infertility, and grief and work with military and their families
When dealing with trauma from pre- or post-divorce, childbirth, loss or trying to manage motherhood (incl post-partum issues), career challenges, or if you are feeling stuck, sad, confused, or anxious, I will aid you in identifying those obstacles that stand in the way of reaching your goals.
My desire is to help you live a full life, to listen openly and without bias and to understand you outside of your problems; to help you see that you have strengths and resources that will help you get through this difficult time or the challenges you face. My goal is to help you feel hopeful again. As a couple's therapist, (I also am a collaborative divorce therapist, mediator, coach, and parent coordinator) my goal is to help the couple heal or learn how to move forward in a positive manner. I am passionate about women's issues, including peri- and post-partum, loss, infertility, and grief and work with military and their families
(805) 288-8673 View (805) 288-8673
Photo of Dr. Nelly Nassar, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Dr. Nelly Nassar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93108  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals struggling with depression, bipolar, general anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, social anxiety, traumatic experiences, loss and grief, & relationship problems among others.
I appreciate the courage it takes for someone to seek therapy and ask for help. Even though it can be an uncomfortable process at the beginning, psychotherapy can be an extremely rewarding experience. I try my best to provide you with a very safe and supportive environment and to work collaboratively with you on raising your awareness about your process and helping you improve your quality of life. I am certified in Gestalt Therapy by the Gestalt Associates Training Los Angeles (GATLA) so I integrate gestalt therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in my work with you.
I specialize in working with individuals struggling with depression, bipolar, general anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, social anxiety, traumatic experiences, loss and grief, & relationship problems among others.
I appreciate the courage it takes for someone to seek therapy and ask for help. Even though it can be an uncomfortable process at the beginning, psychotherapy can be an extremely rewarding experience. I try my best to provide you with a very safe and supportive environment and to work collaboratively with you on raising your awareness about your process and helping you improve your quality of life. I am certified in Gestalt Therapy by the Gestalt Associates Training Los Angeles (GATLA) so I integrate gestalt therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in my work with you.
(626) 784-4612 View (626) 784-4612
Photo of Erika Feely, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Barbara, CA
Erika Feely
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
100% Online telehealth. Are you longing for clarity and ease? Most of our psychological pain and suffering, our inhibitions and limitations in achieving a satisfying life, are the result of primitive anxieties that we have carried within ourselves since the very time we were, indeed, really helpless. Through our work together, you'll learn the tools to understand the meaning underneath your emotions and move beyond feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Using both talk therapy and somatic (body-based) tools, our time together will be a place for you to heal, grow, and explore your inner world in a compassionate and non-judgmental space.
100% Online telehealth. Are you longing for clarity and ease? Most of our psychological pain and suffering, our inhibitions and limitations in achieving a satisfying life, are the result of primitive anxieties that we have carried within ourselves since the very time we were, indeed, really helpless. Through our work together, you'll learn the tools to understand the meaning underneath your emotions and move beyond feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Using both talk therapy and somatic (body-based) tools, our time together will be a place for you to heal, grow, and explore your inner world in a compassionate and non-judgmental space.
(805) 819-5553 View (805) 819-5553
Photo of Anne Crile, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Anne Crile
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
I am a California & Arizona licensed marriage and family therapist (CA 86294, AZ 15639). I specialize in working with couples & individuals navigating life-altering medical conditions; women overwhelmed in the face of work, family & personal pressure; and couples struggling to create or restore fulfilling connection.
I am a California & Arizona licensed marriage and family therapist (CA 86294, AZ 15639). I specialize in working with couples & individuals navigating life-altering medical conditions; women overwhelmed in the face of work, family & personal pressure; and couples struggling to create or restore fulfilling connection.
(626) 269-2114 View (626) 269-2114
Photo of Dr. Debra Sherk, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Dr. Debra Sherk
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93111  (Online Only)
Welcome. It seems that more and more people are seeking the support and guidance that psychotherapy provides. The most common issues among those seeking my services include: Experiencing high levels of stress or anxiety; Difficulty with relationships at home, school, or work; Persistent feelings of loneliness, sadness, or depression; Confusion around spirituality, identity, or vocation; Feeling overwhelmed with life's demands or life transitions. Through a collaborative and trusting therapeutic relationship, I have helped a diverse range of individuals achieve increased stability and balance, more fulfilling relationships, as well as personal growth and transformation.
Welcome. It seems that more and more people are seeking the support and guidance that psychotherapy provides. The most common issues among those seeking my services include: Experiencing high levels of stress or anxiety; Difficulty with relationships at home, school, or work; Persistent feelings of loneliness, sadness, or depression; Confusion around spirituality, identity, or vocation; Feeling overwhelmed with life's demands or life transitions. Through a collaborative and trusting therapeutic relationship, I have helped a diverse range of individuals achieve increased stability and balance, more fulfilling relationships, as well as personal growth and transformation.
(805) 585-5969 View (805) 585-5969
Photo of Alexis Lowenstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Alexis Lowenstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
I believe that healing is a process of letting go of what is not us - our learned ways of coping with life - so that our essence may express itself in the world more freely. Through following the wisdom of the body and spirit, a safe therapy relationship supports the organic movement towards wholeness that is waiting to unfold. I work with adults and children to help increase their felt sense of safety in their bodies and to support mental and emotional well-being. Together we can understand how early experiences create templates for relationship, and learn to shift and transform what no longer serves you.
I believe that healing is a process of letting go of what is not us - our learned ways of coping with life - so that our essence may express itself in the world more freely. Through following the wisdom of the body and spirit, a safe therapy relationship supports the organic movement towards wholeness that is waiting to unfold. I work with adults and children to help increase their felt sense of safety in their bodies and to support mental and emotional well-being. Together we can understand how early experiences create templates for relationship, and learn to shift and transform what no longer serves you.
(510) 768-7310 View (510) 768-7310
Photo of Daniel Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Daniel Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, APCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I've spent my career as a therapist helping children, adults, and couples deal with difficult emotions, relationships, and trauma. I practice trauma informed care even when trauma isn't the focus. In my office you will find radical acceptance, compassion, and a fellow traveler on your journey. I understand that starting therapy can be difficult, especially the first time, so I take the time to build a caring relationship. Therapy wont be sterile or rushed or cookie cutter. You can expect to reduce suffering, strengthen your authentic self, challenge beliefs, foster resiliency, and create more space for curiosity and compassion.
I've spent my career as a therapist helping children, adults, and couples deal with difficult emotions, relationships, and trauma. I practice trauma informed care even when trauma isn't the focus. In my office you will find radical acceptance, compassion, and a fellow traveler on your journey. I understand that starting therapy can be difficult, especially the first time, so I take the time to build a caring relationship. Therapy wont be sterile or rushed or cookie cutter. You can expect to reduce suffering, strengthen your authentic self, challenge beliefs, foster resiliency, and create more space for curiosity and compassion.
(805) 324-6623 View (805) 324-6623

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Grief Therapists

How long does therapy take for grief?

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

When should you seek therapy for grief?

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

Can grief be managed without therapy?

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

What happens if grief is left untreated?

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