Photo of Dana Schlick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Dana Schlick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I specialize in trauma resolution, embodiment, honoring and transforming grief, and cultivating intimacy & authentic connection.
I want to reflect the wholeness that exists within you at this moment, even with the challenges and stuckness you might be experiencing. I believe healing begins with creating the space for a different kind of relating with yourself and your life that honors your innate wisdom. One that is fed by curiosity, compassion, and loving presence. Through supporting the wisdom of your body-mind-spirit-soul, it is possible to move beyond "managing" painful symptoms and stuck patterns that often emerge from past overwhelming life experiences and trauma into true healing, authentic vitality and engagement with life. Healing is possible.
I specialize in trauma resolution, embodiment, honoring and transforming grief, and cultivating intimacy & authentic connection.
I want to reflect the wholeness that exists within you at this moment, even with the challenges and stuckness you might be experiencing. I believe healing begins with creating the space for a different kind of relating with yourself and your life that honors your innate wisdom. One that is fed by curiosity, compassion, and loving presence. Through supporting the wisdom of your body-mind-spirit-soul, it is possible to move beyond "managing" painful symptoms and stuck patterns that often emerge from past overwhelming life experiences and trauma into true healing, authentic vitality and engagement with life. Healing is possible.
(831) 740-8325 View (831) 740-8325
Photo of Shelley Dukes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Shelley Dukes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Individuals come to me for a variety of problems; most often to improve the quality of their life and get relief from nagging self-doubt, anxiety, depression and emotional distress due to life changes and loss. They come to me for clarity, direction and tools to move beyond old patterns and take action to achieve a greater sense of freedom, fulfillment and authenticity.
Individuals come to me for a variety of problems; most often to improve the quality of their life and get relief from nagging self-doubt, anxiety, depression and emotional distress due to life changes and loss. They come to me for clarity, direction and tools to move beyond old patterns and take action to achieve a greater sense of freedom, fulfillment and authenticity.
(530) 475-6712 View (530) 475-6712
Photo of Janene Forsyth, LMFT, #: 111435, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Janene Forsyth, LMFT, #: 111435
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, a challenging transition, loss, trauma, or relationship issues, call me for a free 20 minute psychotherapy consultation. Along with being a licensed marriage family therapist, I am also a certified hypnotherapist. I am compassionate, and skilled to help you move through your path of healing. My sessions are through HIPPA compliant "TeleMentalHealth" technology or online therapy, so I'm as close as your phone or computer.
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, a challenging transition, loss, trauma, or relationship issues, call me for a free 20 minute psychotherapy consultation. Along with being a licensed marriage family therapist, I am also a certified hypnotherapist. I am compassionate, and skilled to help you move through your path of healing. My sessions are through HIPPA compliant "TeleMentalHealth" technology or online therapy, so I'm as close as your phone or computer.
(831) 278-4126 View (831) 278-4126
Photo of Melissa Lehrich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Melissa Lehrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
My focuses are Depression, anxiety, aging, Chronic Illness, Caregiving, Family Conflict, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions, and Stress management.
Hello, my name is Melissa Lehrich, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have an admiration for those who seek to heal and create a more meaningful life, My focus is to help individuals find peace in themselves and become aware of their inner strengths. We will work together to help you grow from your struggles, increase your quality of life and move forward to where you would like to be. My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy.
My focuses are Depression, anxiety, aging, Chronic Illness, Caregiving, Family Conflict, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions, and Stress management.
Hello, my name is Melissa Lehrich, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have an admiration for those who seek to heal and create a more meaningful life, My focus is to help individuals find peace in themselves and become aware of their inner strengths. We will work together to help you grow from your struggles, increase your quality of life and move forward to where you would like to be. My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy.
(831) 850-0838 View (831) 850-0838
Photo of Mary A Schindler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Mary A Schindler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I have worked successfully with many issues including: -Trauma - Anxiety -Panic Episodes -Depression -Substance Abuse -Grief - Bipolar Disorder -Life Transitions -Relationship Issues.
Do you want to stop repeating unhealthy patterns and live a life that brings you an increased sense of joy, calm and health? We can work together to address past traumas, decrease your feelings of anxiety and/or sadness, change addictive habits and improve your relationships. My approach is collaborative, experiential, emotionally focused, person-centered and sometimes even fun. I have been a marriage and family therapist for over20 years and have success in providing compassionate and supportive therapy. The basis of my therapeutic approach is to create a safe environment based on trust and respect.
I have worked successfully with many issues including: -Trauma - Anxiety -Panic Episodes -Depression -Substance Abuse -Grief - Bipolar Disorder -Life Transitions -Relationship Issues.
Do you want to stop repeating unhealthy patterns and live a life that brings you an increased sense of joy, calm and health? We can work together to address past traumas, decrease your feelings of anxiety and/or sadness, change addictive habits and improve your relationships. My approach is collaborative, experiential, emotionally focused, person-centered and sometimes even fun. I have been a marriage and family therapist for over20 years and have success in providing compassionate and supportive therapy. The basis of my therapeutic approach is to create a safe environment based on trust and respect.
(408) 827-9724 View (408) 827-9724
Photo of Catherine Marcotte, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Catherine Marcotte
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Some of the things I've helped others with in the past include: work/life balance, relationship issues, self-esteem and self worth issues, overperformers, depression, adolescents and college age youth, parenting, grief.
Maybe NOW is the right time. Maybe I am the person. Do you need support and strategies to help you through a difficult time or address a particular problem? Let me help. It is an honor to connect with you and work together to help you overcome obstacles, adjust to transitions, and help you become the person, couple, or family that you want to become. Benefit from my 18+ years of experience, as well as my lifelong active and vital pursuit of knowledge and well-being. Compassionate, effective, intelligent and holistic. Let me help and support you in moving forward.
Some of the things I've helped others with in the past include: work/life balance, relationship issues, self-esteem and self worth issues, overperformers, depression, adolescents and college age youth, parenting, grief.
Maybe NOW is the right time. Maybe I am the person. Do you need support and strategies to help you through a difficult time or address a particular problem? Let me help. It is an honor to connect with you and work together to help you overcome obstacles, adjust to transitions, and help you become the person, couple, or family that you want to become. Benefit from my 18+ years of experience, as well as my lifelong active and vital pursuit of knowledge and well-being. Compassionate, effective, intelligent and holistic. Let me help and support you in moving forward.
(831) 274-7365 View (831) 274-7365
Photo of Tierney Long, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Tierney Long
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
I offer virtual, phone and nature walk therapy to teens and adults. I provide a calm, non-judgmental, supportive space to help clients process depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, stress, relationships and life transitions. In doing so, my clients develop self awareness and work through difficult emotions to find their peace and joy! Rather than sitting in an office we meet at a local hiking trail or beach and walk during our session. Being immersed in nature and moving the body while talking provides many additional benefits to the therapeutic process and feels more natural.
I offer virtual, phone and nature walk therapy to teens and adults. I provide a calm, non-judgmental, supportive space to help clients process depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, stress, relationships and life transitions. In doing so, my clients develop self awareness and work through difficult emotions to find their peace and joy! Rather than sitting in an office we meet at a local hiking trail or beach and walk during our session. Being immersed in nature and moving the body while talking provides many additional benefits to the therapeutic process and feels more natural.
(831) 263-0246 View (831) 263-0246
Photo of Amy Schmidt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Amy Schmidt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
I am experienced in treating alcohol and/or substance use, issues around sexuality (I am LGBTQIA friendly), grief and loss, stage-of-life transitions, and self-esteem.
I help people with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, lack of purpose or meaning, addiction &/or alcoholism and many other challenges. I use my knowledge and experience combined with empathy and compassion to support your therapeutic journey. I want to help you better understand yourself, develop coping skills for improved daily living and healthier relationships, and achieve a greater sense of inner peace. I use holistic techniques and client-centered therapy to support you in finding self-awareness, self-compassion, and balance, all of which are keys to the growth and healing process.
I am experienced in treating alcohol and/or substance use, issues around sexuality (I am LGBTQIA friendly), grief and loss, stage-of-life transitions, and self-esteem.
I help people with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, lack of purpose or meaning, addiction &/or alcoholism and many other challenges. I use my knowledge and experience combined with empathy and compassion to support your therapeutic journey. I want to help you better understand yourself, develop coping skills for improved daily living and healthier relationships, and achieve a greater sense of inner peace. I use holistic techniques and client-centered therapy to support you in finding self-awareness, self-compassion, and balance, all of which are keys to the growth and healing process.
(831) 607-1957 x588 View (831) 607-1957 x588
Photo of Ashley Stauffacher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Ashley Stauffacher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
HI! I am an LCSW with over a decade of experience. My calm demeanor and authenticity allow me to connect with people easily and make them feel safe. My therapeutic framework is a mix of many theoretical perspectives including CBT, feminist and mindfulness based practices, but I'm grounded in the humanistic approach of unconditional positive regard towards all human beings. I work hard to provide my clients with a safe and trusting place to process their thoughts, emotions and grief. I work collaboratively with my clients to set goals, build new skills and identify opportunities for growth.
HI! I am an LCSW with over a decade of experience. My calm demeanor and authenticity allow me to connect with people easily and make them feel safe. My therapeutic framework is a mix of many theoretical perspectives including CBT, feminist and mindfulness based practices, but I'm grounded in the humanistic approach of unconditional positive regard towards all human beings. I work hard to provide my clients with a safe and trusting place to process their thoughts, emotions and grief. I work collaboratively with my clients to set goals, build new skills and identify opportunities for growth.
(831) 231-0949 View (831) 231-0949
Photo of Yvonne D Vermillion, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Yvonne D Vermillion
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
As a play therapist for children, adolescents, and even adults, I have witnessed clients evolve from feelings of loneliness, loss, confusion, fear and anxiety, to embracing empowerment, self-confidence, trust and respect for self and others.
Blending conventional and alternative approaches I empower children, adolescents, and adults to reach their therapeutic goals. It is my belief that all children, regardless of age or race, speak their own unique language based on their unique life experiences. This language expresses who they are and what they need in order to live a more functional and productive life. My mission is to interpret that language and offer innovative strategies that foster positive growth and maturity. It is not only a challenge to change, grow, and learn. As a member of the human race, I feel it is an obligation!
As a play therapist for children, adolescents, and even adults, I have witnessed clients evolve from feelings of loneliness, loss, confusion, fear and anxiety, to embracing empowerment, self-confidence, trust and respect for self and others.
Blending conventional and alternative approaches I empower children, adolescents, and adults to reach their therapeutic goals. It is my belief that all children, regardless of age or race, speak their own unique language based on their unique life experiences. This language expresses who they are and what they need in order to live a more functional and productive life. My mission is to interpret that language and offer innovative strategies that foster positive growth and maturity. It is not only a challenge to change, grow, and learn. As a member of the human race, I feel it is an obligation!
(831) 272-4956 View (831) 272-4956
Photo of Rebecca Zulim, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Rebecca Zulim
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I provide counseling services that span from therapy for depression and anxiety, bi-polar disorders, panic disorder, PTSD, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorders, grief counseling, work/career issues, stress management, addiction and recovery, conflict resolution, parenting support, relationship issues, life transitions, and beyond.
Feeling anxious or worried? Too busy for therapy during the work week? I'm available for Friday afternoon and Sunday appointments. I provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges, reduce stress levels, and lead richer, fuller lives. I am an interactive, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral therapist. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues.
I provide counseling services that span from therapy for depression and anxiety, bi-polar disorders, panic disorder, PTSD, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorders, grief counseling, work/career issues, stress management, addiction and recovery, conflict resolution, parenting support, relationship issues, life transitions, and beyond.
Feeling anxious or worried? Too busy for therapy during the work week? I'm available for Friday afternoon and Sunday appointments. I provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges, reduce stress levels, and lead richer, fuller lives. I am an interactive, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral therapist. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues.
(831) 245-3983 View (831) 245-3983
Photo of K Karuna Fluhart-Negrete, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
K Karuna Fluhart-Negrete
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CHT, NCC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95061
Maybe it's time to get the support and compassionate care you want, need and deserve! Feeling anxious, depressed or dealing with loss, grief, trauma or transition? Perhaps you've just been feeling a little down or disconnected from yourself or a primary relationship. Are you wanting to heal on deeper levels?
Maybe it's time to get the support and compassionate care you want, need and deserve! Feeling anxious, depressed or dealing with loss, grief, trauma or transition? Perhaps you've just been feeling a little down or disconnected from yourself or a primary relationship. Are you wanting to heal on deeper levels?
(505) 405-2400 View (505) 405-2400
Photo of LaVina Ellison, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
LaVina Ellison
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
My name is Lavina Ellison. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. 138663. I typically work with clients dealing with Relationship issues, grief, behavior issues, depression, trauma, anxiety, and low self-esteem. I tend to thrive with clients dealing with depression, trauma, anxiety, and low self-esteem. I offer a non-judgmental space to aid in my clients feeling like they can be themselves and keep it real in session. I am very compassionate and utilize active listening to help clients feel heard and supported. I am also quite direct at times to help my clients challenge and move past therapeutic roadblocks.
My name is Lavina Ellison. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. 138663. I typically work with clients dealing with Relationship issues, grief, behavior issues, depression, trauma, anxiety, and low self-esteem. I tend to thrive with clients dealing with depression, trauma, anxiety, and low self-esteem. I offer a non-judgmental space to aid in my clients feeling like they can be themselves and keep it real in session. I am very compassionate and utilize active listening to help clients feel heard and supported. I am also quite direct at times to help my clients challenge and move past therapeutic roadblocks.
(951) 262-4598 View (951) 262-4598
Photo of Andrew Pflueger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Andrew Pflueger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95066
Some areas of my experience are Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Couples, Anger Management, Divorce, PTSD, Trauma, Grief, and Addiction.
My approach to therapy is to encourage a persons strengths; which, by using their history as a guide, we together, focus on finding practical ways to bring healing and hope to their present challenges. I often work with couples who are wanting to improve communication and closeness, individuals in their teens through mid 50's who are trying to realize their individuality, and children struggling with issues they are unsure how to cope with.
Some areas of my experience are Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Couples, Anger Management, Divorce, PTSD, Trauma, Grief, and Addiction.
My approach to therapy is to encourage a persons strengths; which, by using their history as a guide, we together, focus on finding practical ways to bring healing and hope to their present challenges. I often work with couples who are wanting to improve communication and closeness, individuals in their teens through mid 50's who are trying to realize their individuality, and children struggling with issues they are unsure how to cope with.
(831) 234-1814 View (831) 234-1814
Photo of Cindy Klaniecki LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Cindy Klaniecki LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95065  (Online Only)
Typical clients are those who are experiencing uncertainty with goals and obstacles, trauma, life transitions, isolation, anxiety, OCD, depression, postpartum depression, substance use and abuse, stressors and changes including: graduation, grief and loss, caregiving, relocation, loss of independence, palliative, chronic disease, and end of life support.
Exclusively offering telehealth services. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I have been providing therapeutic support through telehealth, to individuals, groups, couples, and families since 2013. My focus has been on working with young adults, adults and seniors. I am licensed and practice in the states of California, Oregon and Montana.
Typical clients are those who are experiencing uncertainty with goals and obstacles, trauma, life transitions, isolation, anxiety, OCD, depression, postpartum depression, substance use and abuse, stressors and changes including: graduation, grief and loss, caregiving, relocation, loss of independence, palliative, chronic disease, and end of life support.
Exclusively offering telehealth services. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I have been providing therapeutic support through telehealth, to individuals, groups, couples, and families since 2013. My focus has been on working with young adults, adults and seniors. I am licensed and practice in the states of California, Oregon and Montana.
(831) 888-0476 View (831) 888-0476
Photo of Anxiety Treatment Services, Psychologist in Santa Cruz, CA
Anxiety Treatment Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Dr. Dufford received specialized training and experience in treating anxiety disorders at the Anxiety Treatment Center with Dr. Bourne, author of The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook. Since 1993 Dr. Dufford is director of Anxiety Treatment Services treating Generalized Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Panic Attacks, Agoraphobia, Specific Phobias, Social Anxiety and related issues: addiction, anger, depression, Trichotillomania/Excoriation, relationships, sleep/insomnia, grief and self-esteem. He is a professional member of the California Psychological Association, Obsessive Compulsive Foundation and EMDR International Association. Dr. Dufford is certified as a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapist, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Expert in Traumatic Stress and Addictions Counselor.
Dr. Dufford received specialized training and experience in treating anxiety disorders at the Anxiety Treatment Center with Dr. Bourne, author of The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook. Since 1993 Dr. Dufford is director of Anxiety Treatment Services treating Generalized Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Panic Attacks, Agoraphobia, Specific Phobias, Social Anxiety and related issues: addiction, anger, depression, Trichotillomania/Excoriation, relationships, sleep/insomnia, grief and self-esteem. He is a professional member of the California Psychological Association, Obsessive Compulsive Foundation and EMDR International Association. Dr. Dufford is certified as a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapist, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Expert in Traumatic Stress and Addictions Counselor.
(408) 384-9838 View (408) 384-9838
Photo of Wendy Richardson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Wendy Richardson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CAS
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I have extensive expertise treating complex trauma as well as treating individuals with mood disorders, anxiety, and grief.
I am a compassionate, empathetic, engaging, and challenging therapist. I utilize the many disciplines I have integrated over the almost 30 years of practicing as a Licensed, Marriage, Family therapist. I am also a Certified Addiction Specialist #C-4020. I tailor treatment to each individual, couple, and family. I will help guide you on your journey of change.
I have extensive expertise treating complex trauma as well as treating individuals with mood disorders, anxiety, and grief.
I am a compassionate, empathetic, engaging, and challenging therapist. I utilize the many disciplines I have integrated over the almost 30 years of practicing as a Licensed, Marriage, Family therapist. I am also a Certified Addiction Specialist #C-4020. I tailor treatment to each individual, couple, and family. I will help guide you on your journey of change.
(831) 623-5144 View (831) 623-5144
Photo of Loretta J. Ferris, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Loretta J. Ferris, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
I work with individuals, couples and families whose lives have been impacted by life transitions. These transitions often include challenges related to relationships, careers, retirement, parenting, loss and grief, chronic pain, disability often include depression, anxiety and PTSD.
I work with individuals, couples and families whose lives have been impacted by life transitions. These transitions often include challenges related to relationships, careers, retirement, parenting, loss and grief, chronic pain, disability often include depression, anxiety and PTSD.
(831) 291-3411 View (831) 291-3411
Photo of Magda Wroblewska, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Magda Wroblewska
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
My primary areas of expertise are issues of trauma (early or recent), grief and loss, sexual abuse, substance abuse, divorce and blended family issues.
It's not easy to look for a therapist. I talk to many nervous people who question if counseling and therapy work. They usually leave my office relaxed, sometimes laughing, most importantly hopeful. My job is to first of all provide a safe space for your self-exploration. I am endlessly fascinated by the growth that happens when people feel safe and not judged. I invite you to be your "uncensored self" because only when we accept who we are; are we open to change.
My primary areas of expertise are issues of trauma (early or recent), grief and loss, sexual abuse, substance abuse, divorce and blended family issues.
It's not easy to look for a therapist. I talk to many nervous people who question if counseling and therapy work. They usually leave my office relaxed, sometimes laughing, most importantly hopeful. My job is to first of all provide a safe space for your self-exploration. I am endlessly fascinated by the growth that happens when people feel safe and not judged. I invite you to be your "uncensored self" because only when we accept who we are; are we open to change.
(408) 335-3513 View (408) 335-3513
Photo of Trinity Mcwilliams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Trinity Mcwilliams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Trinity holds a Masters in Clinical Psychology and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She has taught Child Development at the College Level and specializes in the following areas: individual & couples counseling, children & adolescents (0-18 years of age) and family counseling, trauma, abuse (sexual, physical and emotional) recovery (also EMDR trained), attachment challenges, drug & alcohol addiction, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship issues, establishing healthy boundaries, life transitions.
Trinity holds a Masters in Clinical Psychology and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She has taught Child Development at the College Level and specializes in the following areas: individual & couples counseling, children & adolescents (0-18 years of age) and family counseling, trauma, abuse (sexual, physical and emotional) recovery (also EMDR trained), attachment challenges, drug & alcohol addiction, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship issues, establishing healthy boundaries, life transitions.
(831) 346-1627 View (831) 346-1627
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.