Photo of Sharon Vargas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Sharon Vargas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
I treat a number of issues including unresolved complex trauma, addiction, co-occurring disorders, life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief & loss, relationship difficulties, low self esteem, Adult Children of Alcoholics, impact & insight into historical trauma, and sexual abuse.
My approach is based on who you are and what is relevant for you in order to be your best self. I collaboratively work with clients in re-connecting with their innate strength and resilience in their journey to face change and heal unresolved issues. I use a variety of modalities that support a clients ability to reconnect with their inner-self and identify ways in which they want to make positive changes.
I treat a number of issues including unresolved complex trauma, addiction, co-occurring disorders, life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief & loss, relationship difficulties, low self esteem, Adult Children of Alcoholics, impact & insight into historical trauma, and sexual abuse.
My approach is based on who you are and what is relevant for you in order to be your best self. I collaboratively work with clients in re-connecting with their innate strength and resilience in their journey to face change and heal unresolved issues. I use a variety of modalities that support a clients ability to reconnect with their inner-self and identify ways in which they want to make positive changes.
(805) 301-9500 View (805) 301-9500
Photo of Liz LaCasto, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Liz LaCasto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93110
In my practice I see clients dealing with grief and loss as well as individuals working on, and healing from, alcohol and drug abuse/addictions, or other life challenges such as transitions, depression, anxiety and beyond.
Thank you for taking this time to see if I might be a good match for you. I believe strongly that the match, the relationship, the energy between us is of vital importance in the work. I strive to be your companion on a journey of discovery, reconciling, and healing. In as much as I am your mirror, I am your compassionate facilitator to enable your inner guide to emerge and shine through. My approach is supportive, direct, and rooted in a firm belief that every journey is unique and special.
In my practice I see clients dealing with grief and loss as well as individuals working on, and healing from, alcohol and drug abuse/addictions, or other life challenges such as transitions, depression, anxiety and beyond.
Thank you for taking this time to see if I might be a good match for you. I believe strongly that the match, the relationship, the energy between us is of vital importance in the work. I strive to be your companion on a journey of discovery, reconciling, and healing. In as much as I am your mirror, I am your compassionate facilitator to enable your inner guide to emerge and shine through. My approach is supportive, direct, and rooted in a firm belief that every journey is unique and special.
(805) 954-9299 View (805) 954-9299
Photo of Ivan Chan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Ivan Chan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
If you are in the grips of anxiety, troubled relationships, grief, or other issues that threaten to overwhelm your ability to function or be happy in your life, I look forward to working with you in a safe and non-judgmental way. I use a collaborative approach and actively seek your feedback to provide you with therapy that matches your needs and respects your goals.
If you are in the grips of anxiety, troubled relationships, grief, or other issues that threaten to overwhelm your ability to function or be happy in your life, I look forward to working with you in a safe and non-judgmental way. I use a collaborative approach and actively seek your feedback to provide you with therapy that matches your needs and respects your goals.
(805) 623-4364 View (805) 623-4364
Photo of Marsha Goldman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Marsha Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EdD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93105  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! Congratulations on having the courage to reach out for your own well-being. Taking that first step is the beginning of a healing and expansive journey. I provide a safe space in which to explore your reasons for seeking therapy and to help bring out the strengths and resources that already exist inside of you to further your own life satisfaction. I have sat with many who are suffering and have companioned those experiencing grief, loss, and life transitions.
Hello and welcome! Congratulations on having the courage to reach out for your own well-being. Taking that first step is the beginning of a healing and expansive journey. I provide a safe space in which to explore your reasons for seeking therapy and to help bring out the strengths and resources that already exist inside of you to further your own life satisfaction. I have sat with many who are suffering and have companioned those experiencing grief, loss, and life transitions.
(805) 427-8780 View (805) 427-8780
Photo of Jennifer Vogel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Jennifer Vogel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
I meet with people experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, and those who struggle with relational intimacy, abandonment, and attachment challenges.
It can be very challenging to see things clearly in life. I help individuals re-adjust their way of looking at themselves, their relationships, and the world. Through psycho-dynamic exploration, I come alongside a patient in the discovery of what is possible, as it is my belief that the most crucial part of therapy is the relationship that builds between patient and therapist. It is often easier to shine a light into uncertain areas of one's heart and mind when someone else is holding the light.
I meet with people experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, and those who struggle with relational intimacy, abandonment, and attachment challenges.
It can be very challenging to see things clearly in life. I help individuals re-adjust their way of looking at themselves, their relationships, and the world. Through psycho-dynamic exploration, I come alongside a patient in the discovery of what is possible, as it is my belief that the most crucial part of therapy is the relationship that builds between patient and therapist. It is often easier to shine a light into uncertain areas of one's heart and mind when someone else is holding the light.
(805) 693-4160 View (805) 693-4160
Photo of Brandy Malloy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Brandy Malloy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
My name is Brandy Malloy, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Therapist. I enjoy working with clients who are seeking support and guidance with the following issues: Stress management, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, couples counseling, women's health issues, self-esteem issues, and boundary setting.
My name is Brandy Malloy, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Therapist. I enjoy working with clients who are seeking support and guidance with the following issues: Stress management, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, couples counseling, women's health issues, self-esteem issues, and boundary setting.
(559) 254-4235 View (559) 254-4235
Photo of Amanda Banks, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Amanda Banks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
I specialize in mental health issues surrounding anxiety, depression, grief and loss, substance abuse, self esteem issues, anger management, intimate partner violence, sexual abuse, trauma, crisis stabilization, interpersonal and relationship issues, and adjustment through life transitions.
Immediate openings as of 01/2024. Welcome, I'm glad you are here to see how you could benefit from virtual therapy sessions. Creating meaningful change is difficult, but developing into the person you want to be is always worth the effort. Invest in yourself! I would be honored for an opportunity to help you explore who you are, how you are struggling, and how you want to move forward while developing the internal strength to be the best version of yourself. Join me for a process of self exploration, growth, and development while creating a more complete and positive sense of self.
I specialize in mental health issues surrounding anxiety, depression, grief and loss, substance abuse, self esteem issues, anger management, intimate partner violence, sexual abuse, trauma, crisis stabilization, interpersonal and relationship issues, and adjustment through life transitions.
Immediate openings as of 01/2024. Welcome, I'm glad you are here to see how you could benefit from virtual therapy sessions. Creating meaningful change is difficult, but developing into the person you want to be is always worth the effort. Invest in yourself! I would be honored for an opportunity to help you explore who you are, how you are struggling, and how you want to move forward while developing the internal strength to be the best version of yourself. Join me for a process of self exploration, growth, and development while creating a more complete and positive sense of self.
(657) 239-3463 View (657) 239-3463
Photo of Kelsey Waesche, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Barbara, CA
Kelsey Waesche
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93106  (Online Only)
As a biracial therapist, I offer a unique perspective to the therapeutic process, integrating diverse cultural understanding and experiences into my practice. My background enriches my ability to connect with clients from various cultural backgrounds, fostering a deeper sense of trust and understanding the therapeutic relationship. I specialize in working with children, young adults, and adults grappling with overwhelming anxiety, profound loss, or complex relationships.
As a biracial therapist, I offer a unique perspective to the therapeutic process, integrating diverse cultural understanding and experiences into my practice. My background enriches my ability to connect with clients from various cultural backgrounds, fostering a deeper sense of trust and understanding the therapeutic relationship. I specialize in working with children, young adults, and adults grappling with overwhelming anxiety, profound loss, or complex relationships.
(805) 364-0252 View (805) 364-0252
Photo of Sara Tousi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Sara Tousi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93117
I often work with individuals that struggle with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, and with individuals that are experiencing grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, and relationship and work stressors.
My name is Sara Tousi, and I am an LCSW. As a clinical social worker, supporting clients to overcome barriers to their various treatments is an important aspect and an integral part of my social work practice. I have over 15 years of experience working with clients from various backgrounds. I have vast experience working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders and as well as with individuals that are experiencing grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, and relationship and work stressors. I utilize a variety of therapy modalities in order to support clients in meeting their treatment goals.
I often work with individuals that struggle with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, and with individuals that are experiencing grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, and relationship and work stressors.
My name is Sara Tousi, and I am an LCSW. As a clinical social worker, supporting clients to overcome barriers to their various treatments is an important aspect and an integral part of my social work practice. I have over 15 years of experience working with clients from various backgrounds. I have vast experience working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders and as well as with individuals that are experiencing grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, and relationship and work stressors. I utilize a variety of therapy modalities in order to support clients in meeting their treatment goals.
(323) 205-7791 View (323) 205-7791
Photo of Mckenzie Amundson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Mckenzie Amundson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Whoever you are, whether it be struggling with relationship issues, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, all the way to trying to come to terms with a more persistent diagnosis, I cannot wait to meet you exactly where you are at. I invite you to reach out to me in this time, as hard as that may be. Because this truly is the hardest part. And know that if we are not a good fit, I can direct you to other therapists that can hopefully be exactly what you need.
Whoever you are, whether it be struggling with relationship issues, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, all the way to trying to come to terms with a more persistent diagnosis, I cannot wait to meet you exactly where you are at. I invite you to reach out to me in this time, as hard as that may be. Because this truly is the hardest part. And know that if we are not a good fit, I can direct you to other therapists that can hopefully be exactly what you need.
(805) 209-2318 View (805) 209-2318
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 Sharon L Rapp, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Sharon L Rapp
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
Grief therapy is also an important part of my practice.
I practice Positive Psychology, the study of what makes life worth living. Things that are good in life are every bit as important and genuine as what is bad. What is good isn’t simply the absence of problems, but is something that exists in its own right. Good isn’t the reverse or reciprocal of disorder, but stands on its own and requires its own explanation. We can look at the positive aspects of life and help an individual develop a balanced view of their circumstances and how they plan to address the issue(s) they are facing.
Grief therapy is also an important part of my practice.
I practice Positive Psychology, the study of what makes life worth living. Things that are good in life are every bit as important and genuine as what is bad. What is good isn’t simply the absence of problems, but is something that exists in its own right. Good isn’t the reverse or reciprocal of disorder, but stands on its own and requires its own explanation. We can look at the positive aspects of life and help an individual develop a balanced view of their circumstances and how they plan to address the issue(s) they are facing.
(805) 324-6690 View (805) 324-6690
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 Diana Sharpe, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Diana Sharpe
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93105  (Online Only)
Significant life events such as the death of a loved one, divorce, chronic illness, or job loss involve great disruption to self and identity.
Are you seeking to create a more meaningful life for yourself? Are you overwhelmed or struggling? This may be a particularly challenging time in your life, but it is also a wonderful opportunity to heal and grow as a person. I will listen, encourage, guide, and support you in connecting to your own innate wisdom and power. Personally, I'm warm, down-to-earth, and compassionate; skillful in creating safe space, active enough to maintain momentum, and can offer you new perspectives on old problems.
Significant life events such as the death of a loved one, divorce, chronic illness, or job loss involve great disruption to self and identity.
Are you seeking to create a more meaningful life for yourself? Are you overwhelmed or struggling? This may be a particularly challenging time in your life, but it is also a wonderful opportunity to heal and grow as a person. I will listen, encourage, guide, and support you in connecting to your own innate wisdom and power. Personally, I'm warm, down-to-earth, and compassionate; skillful in creating safe space, active enough to maintain momentum, and can offer you new perspectives on old problems.
(805) 421-4616 View (805) 421-4616
Photo of Michael H Kreitsek in Santa Barbara, CA
Michael H Kreitsek
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Clients often come to me during a deep life transition of some kind. They are looking for clarity and deeper meaning. They are motivated, and sometimes afraid to change. Issues of grief and death, relationship, career change, loss or aging often show up; a sense of "Who am I? What next? Where am I going? Where have I been?" Many times clients are looking for deeper spiritual awareness, either wanting to renew abandoned practices, or looking for something beyond their past experience. In each case they are looking to connect more directly with life and find methods to do so. They are looking for greater balance, peace and stability.
Clients often come to me during a deep life transition of some kind. They are looking for clarity and deeper meaning. They are motivated, and sometimes afraid to change. Issues of grief and death, relationship, career change, loss or aging often show up; a sense of "Who am I? What next? Where am I going? Where have I been?" Many times clients are looking for deeper spiritual awareness, either wanting to renew abandoned practices, or looking for something beyond their past experience. In each case they are looking to connect more directly with life and find methods to do so. They are looking for greater balance, peace and stability.
(805) 608-3408 View (805) 608-3408
Photo of Dr. Steven Henry, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Dr. Steven Henry
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93105  (Online Only)
Dr. Henry is a licensed psychologist (PSY34782) who works with adult individuals and couples that express concerns about anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, self-esteem, and relationship challenges. Dr. Henry would be a good fit for anyone seeking an individualized approach toward therapy that: supports self-compassion, builds strengths, and promotes healing through developing meaning from past experiences.
Dr. Henry is a licensed psychologist (PSY34782) who works with adult individuals and couples that express concerns about anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, self-esteem, and relationship challenges. Dr. Henry would be a good fit for anyone seeking an individualized approach toward therapy that: supports self-compassion, builds strengths, and promotes healing through developing meaning from past experiences.
(714) 203-2684 View (714) 203-2684
Photo of Kristine Gore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Kristine Gore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
The gift of therapy is priceless and highly transformative. I am walking proof of the impact and have lived through tremendous challenges related to grief & loss, high conflict relationships, health related battles, career challenges and changes, intergenerational trauma, raising young adults and lived experiences in different parts of the country. My therapeutic journey was led by a skilled therapist and through that learning an inherent calling to help others arose. Today, I work with clients in California and am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR,) Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR,) and Reiki.
The gift of therapy is priceless and highly transformative. I am walking proof of the impact and have lived through tremendous challenges related to grief & loss, high conflict relationships, health related battles, career challenges and changes, intergenerational trauma, raising young adults and lived experiences in different parts of the country. My therapeutic journey was led by a skilled therapist and through that learning an inherent calling to help others arose. Today, I work with clients in California and am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR,) Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR,) and Reiki.
(805) 716-6328 View (805) 716-6328
Photo of Solomon Ndungu, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Solomon Ndungu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Anger management and domestic violence, grief, depression, life changes, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, bi-polar disorder and more.
My theoretical orientation is psychodynamic. Using the most appropriate and beneficial modality that fits with the client and their needs. I work collaboratively with a client to arrive at their personal goals in therapy. I have found life is a journey of learning how to live to the fullest with all the gifts that we possess and discovering others along the way. With all the experiences that we have in this life, a persons perspective makes a huge difference in how they experience it. My hope is to help find the perspective that helps alleviate suffering and creates a space for healing and thriving.
Anger management and domestic violence, grief, depression, life changes, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, bi-polar disorder and more.
My theoretical orientation is psychodynamic. Using the most appropriate and beneficial modality that fits with the client and their needs. I work collaboratively with a client to arrive at their personal goals in therapy. I have found life is a journey of learning how to live to the fullest with all the gifts that we possess and discovering others along the way. With all the experiences that we have in this life, a persons perspective makes a huge difference in how they experience it. My hope is to help find the perspective that helps alleviate suffering and creates a space for healing and thriving.
(805) 749-2056 View (805) 749-2056
Photo of Adrienne Oxton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Adrienne Oxton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
I treat the big and small life challenges and provide services in the areas of: anxiety, relationships, trauma, childhood trauma and abuse, PTSD, Complex-PTSD, depression, grief, and life transitions/stressors, and domestic violence.
In-person and telehealth available. I work with adolescents, adults and couples. We all experience anxiety, depression, anger, stress and sometimes the trauma that can occur in our families, our relationships, our friendships, our workplaces and our everyday lives. Some of these stressors are triggered when we break-up, begin a new relationship, start a new job, start at a new school etc. Some individuals need to be sat with and have a space held for them, some are looking for collaborative support and guidance on their life's struggles.
I treat the big and small life challenges and provide services in the areas of: anxiety, relationships, trauma, childhood trauma and abuse, PTSD, Complex-PTSD, depression, grief, and life transitions/stressors, and domestic violence.
In-person and telehealth available. I work with adolescents, adults and couples. We all experience anxiety, depression, anger, stress and sometimes the trauma that can occur in our families, our relationships, our friendships, our workplaces and our everyday lives. Some of these stressors are triggered when we break-up, begin a new relationship, start a new job, start at a new school etc. Some individuals need to be sat with and have a space held for them, some are looking for collaborative support and guidance on their life's struggles.
(805) 219-7878 View (805) 219-7878
Photo of Katrina Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Barbara, CA
Katrina Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
It is easy to feel overwhelmed when we are trying to navigate stress, transition, trauma, loss, or conflict. Through compassionate inquiry into our hearts, minds, and souls we can better understand the path forward to the life we want and the person we want to be. I am a warm, collaborative, and person-centered therapist who believes in the innate capacity of humans to heal, grow, and thrive. I will join you and help guide you to connect to your authentic self, inner wisdom, strengths, and compassion. I work with adults, teens, children, couples and families to find balance and a greater sense of well-being.
It is easy to feel overwhelmed when we are trying to navigate stress, transition, trauma, loss, or conflict. Through compassionate inquiry into our hearts, minds, and souls we can better understand the path forward to the life we want and the person we want to be. I am a warm, collaborative, and person-centered therapist who believes in the innate capacity of humans to heal, grow, and thrive. I will join you and help guide you to connect to your authentic self, inner wisdom, strengths, and compassion. I work with adults, teens, children, couples and families to find balance and a greater sense of well-being.
(805) 590-9341 View (805) 590-9341

See more therapy options for Santa Barbara

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.