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 Anjoli Kumra, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Anjoli Kumra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, CRM
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060  (Online Only)
Hi there! I always joke that when you see what a therapist specializes in, it's because they have lived it. Intense grief, overwhelming emotions, trauma that gets in the way of relationships, anxiety, depression and disconnection are all things that I have dealt with in the past. Are you experiencing any of these? When working with people my main goal is to see them as whole and accept them exactly as they are. If someone is feeling present and ready to dive into their emotions, I can teach them how to fully experience emotion as a sensation in the body that is just passing through. The benefits of this can be phenomenal.
Hi there! I always joke that when you see what a therapist specializes in, it's because they have lived it. Intense grief, overwhelming emotions, trauma that gets in the way of relationships, anxiety, depression and disconnection are all things that I have dealt with in the past. Are you experiencing any of these? When working with people my main goal is to see them as whole and accept them exactly as they are. If someone is feeling present and ready to dive into their emotions, I can teach them how to fully experience emotion as a sensation in the body that is just passing through. The benefits of this can be phenomenal.
(831) 215-4252 View (831) 215-4252
Photo of Kristin Roberts, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Kristin Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Hi, I'm Kristin Roberts. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist in Northern California. I see individual adults, couples, families, and minors (14-17). I specialize in treating trauma and use EMDR and brainspotting. I'm also IFS informed and use that modality to heal client's inner adult/child parts of self. I treat anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, grief, relationship distress in friendships, family dynamics, and with couples.
Hi, I'm Kristin Roberts. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist in Northern California. I see individual adults, couples, families, and minors (14-17). I specialize in treating trauma and use EMDR and brainspotting. I'm also IFS informed and use that modality to heal client's inner adult/child parts of self. I treat anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, grief, relationship distress in friendships, family dynamics, and with couples.
(831) 666-0175 View (831) 666-0175
Photo of Elizabeth A. Wood, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Elizabeth A. Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I often treat younger adults in healthcare, tech/engineering, environmental sustainability, & LGBTQ+ folks who are navigating grief, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, & stress related to life transitions.
I love working with folks who are curious about the growth potential psychoanalytic psychotherapy can unveil. I believe in the curative elements of this approach and hope to generate positive change and wellness with you. Weaving a relational insight-oriented lens with art therapy, we can uncover areas of unconscious suffering, root causes, and establish goals for treatment. By increasing our self-understanding and meaning making capacities, we illuminate new perspectives and intentionality. Together, we can co-create effective pathways to integrate that knowledge towards personal growth and inner healing.
I often treat younger adults in healthcare, tech/engineering, environmental sustainability, & LGBTQ+ folks who are navigating grief, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, & stress related to life transitions.
I love working with folks who are curious about the growth potential psychoanalytic psychotherapy can unveil. I believe in the curative elements of this approach and hope to generate positive change and wellness with you. Weaving a relational insight-oriented lens with art therapy, we can uncover areas of unconscious suffering, root causes, and establish goals for treatment. By increasing our self-understanding and meaning making capacities, we illuminate new perspectives and intentionality. Together, we can co-create effective pathways to integrate that knowledge towards personal growth and inner healing.
(415) 722-1199 View (415) 722-1199
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 Roger Portillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Roger Portillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Individuals who are direct descendants from, or from parents of, other countries trying to resolve any confusion or pain related to transitions, loss, or other life challenges.
Hello, my name is Roger Portillo (LCSW), a mental health therapist working in Southern California, specifically the San Gabriel Valley. I provide assistance to individuals, of any gender, that are 1st/2nd generation parents searching for emotional tranquility in an ever-changing world. If you are feeling disconnected or out of touch, reach out, and learn more. I can help. My therapeutic approach is interpersonal and relational. My work is based on a therapeutic bond that fosters trust and open communication. It's judgment-free yet purposeful on the goals set by the individual seeking therapy.
Individuals who are direct descendants from, or from parents of, other countries trying to resolve any confusion or pain related to transitions, loss, or other life challenges.
Hello, my name is Roger Portillo (LCSW), a mental health therapist working in Southern California, specifically the San Gabriel Valley. I provide assistance to individuals, of any gender, that are 1st/2nd generation parents searching for emotional tranquility in an ever-changing world. If you are feeling disconnected or out of touch, reach out, and learn more. I can help. My therapeutic approach is interpersonal and relational. My work is based on a therapeutic bond that fosters trust and open communication. It's judgment-free yet purposeful on the goals set by the individual seeking therapy.
(831) 900-4633 View (831) 900-4633
Photo of Ana de la Torre, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Ana de la Torre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
My commitment as a therapist is to help you obtain a more satisfying and rewarding life. I work with women to assist them to: Create fulfilling, joyful relationships; Overcome anxiety and depresson; Acquire Self-Esteem and Confidence; Reduce limiting thoughts or beliefs; Move beyond loss and grief; Recover from divorce; Successfully move through life transitions. My goal is to empower and support you in identifying and moving beyond the personal obstacles that keep you from creating the relationships and life that you desire.
My commitment as a therapist is to help you obtain a more satisfying and rewarding life. I work with women to assist them to: Create fulfilling, joyful relationships; Overcome anxiety and depresson; Acquire Self-Esteem and Confidence; Reduce limiting thoughts or beliefs; Move beyond loss and grief; Recover from divorce; Successfully move through life transitions. My goal is to empower and support you in identifying and moving beyond the personal obstacles that keep you from creating the relationships and life that you desire.
(831) 777-6217 View (831) 777-6217
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 Nicole Nemiroff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Nicole Nemiroff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Be it around anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, or just support - please don't hesitate to reach out.
Many women I work with talk about losing themselves and feeling frustratingly stuck. Are you a healthcare practitioner, nurse, or first responder? I specialize in working with women in the "helping fields". High expectations take a toll on our minds and our bodies. You want to feel grounded and confident. You need time to look inward and heal. You’re ready to develop a pathway forward, one where you feel hopeful and in control. You're in the right place. I also have a special interest in working with anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I work with first-generation American-born people and "third culture" kids.
Be it around anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, or just support - please don't hesitate to reach out.
Many women I work with talk about losing themselves and feeling frustratingly stuck. Are you a healthcare practitioner, nurse, or first responder? I specialize in working with women in the "helping fields". High expectations take a toll on our minds and our bodies. You want to feel grounded and confident. You need time to look inward and heal. You’re ready to develop a pathway forward, one where you feel hopeful and in control. You're in the right place. I also have a special interest in working with anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I work with first-generation American-born people and "third culture" kids.
(831) 400-5684 View (831) 400-5684
Photo of Lily Rich, Psychologist in Santa Cruz, CA
Lily Rich
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Waitlist for new clients
This can look like creating a death plan with the client as well as helping the members of the family gain closure with their loved one so when the time comes they can support them in letting go.
Through my business Healing at Home I specialize in in-home therapy for seniors, elders and their families. My practice is unique in that I see my clients in the comfort of their own home. My ideal client is someone who is having trouble adjusting to the transitions in their life. Many of my clients have lost a loved one or are adjusting to a chronic illness, loss of independence or a recent move. Through Medicare I am also able to provide support to my clients families, who are often also struggling with their loved ones challenges.
This can look like creating a death plan with the client as well as helping the members of the family gain closure with their loved one so when the time comes they can support them in letting go.
Through my business Healing at Home I specialize in in-home therapy for seniors, elders and their families. My practice is unique in that I see my clients in the comfort of their own home. My ideal client is someone who is having trouble adjusting to the transitions in their life. Many of my clients have lost a loved one or are adjusting to a chronic illness, loss of independence or a recent move. Through Medicare I am also able to provide support to my clients families, who are often also struggling with their loved ones challenges.
(831) 346-1132 View (831) 346-1132
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 Jeremy Bailey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Jeremy Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
My name is Jeremy D. Bailey and I am a licensed clinical social worker in the State of California. I have 14 years of extensive clinical experience working with people from a diversity of backgrounds and ages in both public and private settings. My focus is assisting people with trauma, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), depression/mood disorders, suicidal thoughts, LGBTQI+ issues, and adjustment disorders, grief/loss, job stress, and more. I utilize aspects of cognitive/dialectical behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, solution focused, psycho-dynamic, mindfulness, attachment theory, and motivational interviewing.
My name is Jeremy D. Bailey and I am a licensed clinical social worker in the State of California. I have 14 years of extensive clinical experience working with people from a diversity of backgrounds and ages in both public and private settings. My focus is assisting people with trauma, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), depression/mood disorders, suicidal thoughts, LGBTQI+ issues, and adjustment disorders, grief/loss, job stress, and more. I utilize aspects of cognitive/dialectical behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, solution focused, psycho-dynamic, mindfulness, attachment theory, and motivational interviewing.
(323) 379-0638 View (323) 379-0638
Photo of Rachel Carlson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Rachel Carlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
My name is Rachel Carlson, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, CA, and working with clients statewide with telehealth. I work with adult individuals, and I have a holistic approach that has allowed me to develop therapeutic strategies that are sensitive, effective, and tailored to the individual needs of each client. I work with adult individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, as well as relationship issues. I use motivational interviewing and a strengths-based approach in order to best serve my clients.
My name is Rachel Carlson, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, CA, and working with clients statewide with telehealth. I work with adult individuals, and I have a holistic approach that has allowed me to develop therapeutic strategies that are sensitive, effective, and tailored to the individual needs of each client. I work with adult individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, as well as relationship issues. I use motivational interviewing and a strengths-based approach in order to best serve my clients.
(661) 690-5840 View (661) 690-5840
Photo of Nina Atanassova, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Nina Atanassova
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Hello, my name is Nina Atanassova, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I provide counseling to individuals, couples, and families. I help clients with issues related to: Depression and Anxiety - Stress Management - Domestic Violence - Anger Management - Self Esteem Issues - Communication and Relationship Issues - Adolescent Behavioral Issues - Trauma, Grief and Loss - Parenting and Step-Parenting Issues. Most of my clients are high-functioning adults who experience anxiety, depression, relationship and life stress/transition issues.
Hello, my name is Nina Atanassova, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I provide counseling to individuals, couples, and families. I help clients with issues related to: Depression and Anxiety - Stress Management - Domestic Violence - Anger Management - Self Esteem Issues - Communication and Relationship Issues - Adolescent Behavioral Issues - Trauma, Grief and Loss - Parenting and Step-Parenting Issues. Most of my clients are high-functioning adults who experience anxiety, depression, relationship and life stress/transition issues.
(949) 828-6118 View (949) 828-6118
Photo of Heather Rodriguez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Heather Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95064
Welcome! My name is Heather Rodriguez, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience working with teens, at-risk youth, adults, parents, and families. I help with issues like Depression, Anxiety, Sexual abuse/trauma, Sexual Identity, Stress, Grief, Trauma, Relationships, Self-Harm, and Coping Skills. I incorporate many modalities including Crisis Intervention, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I recognize that seeking therapy is a difficult decision, and I am proud of you for taking the first step!
Welcome! My name is Heather Rodriguez, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience working with teens, at-risk youth, adults, parents, and families. I help with issues like Depression, Anxiety, Sexual abuse/trauma, Sexual Identity, Stress, Grief, Trauma, Relationships, Self-Harm, and Coping Skills. I incorporate many modalities including Crisis Intervention, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I recognize that seeking therapy is a difficult decision, and I am proud of you for taking the first step!
(323) 370-0976 View (323) 370-0976
Photo of Elva Lopez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Elva Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
My name is Elva Lopez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Ventura, California and working with clients statewide via tele health. I am passionate about supporting all of my clients through challenges to experience healing and growth in their lives. I found that my style and approach are a good fit for adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, grief, and stress.
My name is Elva Lopez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Ventura, California and working with clients statewide via tele health. I am passionate about supporting all of my clients through challenges to experience healing and growth in their lives. I found that my style and approach are a good fit for adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, grief, and stress.
(661) 485-3742 View (661) 485-3742
Photo of Yesenia Orozco-Vasquez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Yesenia Orozco-Vasquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Hi! My name is Yesenia Orozco-Vasquez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, California with ample experience working with children, teens, parents, and young adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and life transitions and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), and Positive Parenting Program (Triple P) practices to build my clients' strengths and improve their interpersonal relationships. I often use a strengths-based and cognitive behavioral approach in my practice so that clients gain a clear understanding of what is contributing to their distress and how we can work.
Hi! My name is Yesenia Orozco-Vasquez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, California with ample experience working with children, teens, parents, and young adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and life transitions and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), and Positive Parenting Program (Triple P) practices to build my clients' strengths and improve their interpersonal relationships. I often use a strengths-based and cognitive behavioral approach in my practice so that clients gain a clear understanding of what is contributing to their distress and how we can work.
(831) 222-1173 View (831) 222-1173
Photo of Kimberly Naraine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Kimberly Naraine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Hi! I'm Kim Naraine and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) residing in California. I provide virtual individual therapy sessions for all those living in the same state. I work with a wide range of ages and specifically focus on providing collaborative care to my clients. I enjoy providing skills and solutions while teaching how to honor emotions. My passion is to connect with people in a way that makes them feel seen and heard. I'd describe my therapeutic interaction as casual and informal. I believe that therapy is a unique space for emotional healing and mental processing.
Hi! I'm Kim Naraine and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) residing in California. I provide virtual individual therapy sessions for all those living in the same state. I work with a wide range of ages and specifically focus on providing collaborative care to my clients. I enjoy providing skills and solutions while teaching how to honor emotions. My passion is to connect with people in a way that makes them feel seen and heard. I'd describe my therapeutic interaction as casual and informal. I believe that therapy is a unique space for emotional healing and mental processing.
(818) 483-9691 View (818) 483-9691
Photo of Maya Sol Dansie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Maya Sol Dansie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Hola! My name is Maya Sol. I am a Xicana activist, dancer, educator, therapist, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated towards raising awareness, political consciousness and empowering our community. I am dedicated towards increasing culturally grounded and decolonial mental health access in California and Colorado with an emphasis on Spanish-speaking & BIPOC communities. I am proud to have a long history in addressing disparities within the community with an intersectional lens and inclusion for LGBTQ2 and Communities of Color.
Hola! My name is Maya Sol. I am a Xicana activist, dancer, educator, therapist, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated towards raising awareness, political consciousness and empowering our community. I am dedicated towards increasing culturally grounded and decolonial mental health access in California and Colorado with an emphasis on Spanish-speaking & BIPOC communities. I am proud to have a long history in addressing disparities within the community with an intersectional lens and inclusion for LGBTQ2 and Communities of Color.
(720) 738-5892 View (720) 738-5892
Photo of Cristina Marra, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Cruz, CA
Cristina Marra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I am a mental health therapist and have been working in the field for over 10 years. I have a wide range of experience that includes, but is not limited to, working with: depression, anxiety, issues in their primary relationship or family of origin issues, phobias, trauma, and infidelity. My approach is client-centered, which means I am open to whatever the client brings up in therapy.
I am a mental health therapist and have been working in the field for over 10 years. I have a wide range of experience that includes, but is not limited to, working with: depression, anxiety, issues in their primary relationship or family of origin issues, phobias, trauma, and infidelity. My approach is client-centered, which means I am open to whatever the client brings up in therapy.
(925) 397-0122 View (925) 397-0122
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.