Photo of Mary McCammon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Mary McCammon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
Grief, sadness, worry, and loneliness, have any of these taken root in your life? Possibly, you arrived here grieving the death of a loved one. Maybe, you have recently undergone a change that has you questioning your life’s purpose and meaning. Perhaps, you have experienced: loss of safety, loss of trust, loss of personal power or loss of connection. Is there something here that speaks to you about your life right now? If you are reading this, you have already taken that first positive step.
Grief, sadness, worry, and loneliness, have any of these taken root in your life? Possibly, you arrived here grieving the death of a loved one. Maybe, you have recently undergone a change that has you questioning your life’s purpose and meaning. Perhaps, you have experienced: loss of safety, loss of trust, loss of personal power or loss of connection. Is there something here that speaks to you about your life right now? If you are reading this, you have already taken that first positive step.
(707) 216-0479 View (707) 216-0479
Photo of Leslie Hansen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Leslie Hansen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
Professional experiences have prepared me to work with people experiencing serious illness, grief and loss and adoption issues.
Humans are social animals - by nature we need to feel connected ("in relationship"). Life today is SO stressful! If we feel connected we can manage our stressful lives. If we don't feel connected then it doesn't matter what else is happening - life won't feel very satisfying. Through the therapeutic process you and I will work on improving your relationships with yourself and others, which can help you feel more safe and secure, and that your life is more meaningful and satisfying. When your relationships are better, you have more focus and energy for life!
Professional experiences have prepared me to work with people experiencing serious illness, grief and loss and adoption issues.
Humans are social animals - by nature we need to feel connected ("in relationship"). Life today is SO stressful! If we feel connected we can manage our stressful lives. If we don't feel connected then it doesn't matter what else is happening - life won't feel very satisfying. Through the therapeutic process you and I will work on improving your relationships with yourself and others, which can help you feel more safe and secure, and that your life is more meaningful and satisfying. When your relationships are better, you have more focus and energy for life!
(707) 385-0589 View (707) 385-0589
Photo of Dr. Cynthia Grow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Dr. Cynthia Grow
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT-CA, LMFT-FL
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95409  (Online Only)
Hello, and thank you for visiting my profile! I appreciate your courage in seeking therapy. This can feel like a huge step, but it's really like having skilled companionship on a safe, self-paced journey, customized specifically for you. Problems can feel overwhelming and that's when concentrated focus is important for relief. Sometimes just a "tune-up" is nice. Either way, you'll find me client-centered, compassionate, and non-judgemental. I'm a trauma recovery specialist (single incident or complex). I'm skilled in helping clients overcome depression, anxiety, grief, loss, relationship/parenting conflict, life transitions, & more.
Hello, and thank you for visiting my profile! I appreciate your courage in seeking therapy. This can feel like a huge step, but it's really like having skilled companionship on a safe, self-paced journey, customized specifically for you. Problems can feel overwhelming and that's when concentrated focus is important for relief. Sometimes just a "tune-up" is nice. Either way, you'll find me client-centered, compassionate, and non-judgemental. I'm a trauma recovery specialist (single incident or complex). I'm skilled in helping clients overcome depression, anxiety, grief, loss, relationship/parenting conflict, life transitions, & more.
(707) 735-6879 View (707) 735-6879
Photo of M Patricia Graef, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
M Patricia Graef
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95402
Whatever is troubling you, anxiety or depression, a personal crisis or loss, difficulties with a partner or concern about a child's behavior - relief is possible. I work with individuals, children, teens, adults, couples and families, and treat a wide range of the human experience, including anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, panic attacks, borderline personality disorder, bi-polar conditions and anger management. My approach is character analytic which offers an opportunity for clients to experience a wider range of feelings, resulting in more energy and an ability to move through life's difficulties and experience life's pleasures.
Whatever is troubling you, anxiety or depression, a personal crisis or loss, difficulties with a partner or concern about a child's behavior - relief is possible. I work with individuals, children, teens, adults, couples and families, and treat a wide range of the human experience, including anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, panic attacks, borderline personality disorder, bi-polar conditions and anger management. My approach is character analytic which offers an opportunity for clients to experience a wider range of feelings, resulting in more energy and an ability to move through life's difficulties and experience life's pleasures.
(510) 455-7136 View (510) 455-7136
Photo of Karen Stocksdale, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Karen Stocksdale
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
Do you long to feel whole again? I am available to those who are struggling with grief, loss, personal trauma, or life circumstances. We will collaborate and help you find your center, strengthen your core, and equip you with tools to re-integrate your being.
Do you long to feel whole again? I am available to those who are struggling with grief, loss, personal trauma, or life circumstances. We will collaborate and help you find your center, strengthen your core, and equip you with tools to re-integrate your being.
(707) 549-6050 View (707) 549-6050
Photo of Marie F Piazza, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Marie F Piazza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95405
I am passionate about working with people who are experiencing depression, anxiety, or grief.
Is it easier for you to give than to receive? Are you a nurse, therapist, teacher, or in another "helping profession"? Are you tired of struggling with the daily life grind, while longing for a rich and vibrant life? Do you wonder why you often feel so depleted, while others are enjoying life? Are you in a relationship but are struggling with the same issues and can't find your way to a better way of relating? You are not alone! You deserve to be happy and fulfilled. You can heal and learn new ways of living! I hold the space in which a full and rewarding life is possible for you, even if you cannot yet imagine it for yourself.
I am passionate about working with people who are experiencing depression, anxiety, or grief.
Is it easier for you to give than to receive? Are you a nurse, therapist, teacher, or in another "helping profession"? Are you tired of struggling with the daily life grind, while longing for a rich and vibrant life? Do you wonder why you often feel so depleted, while others are enjoying life? Are you in a relationship but are struggling with the same issues and can't find your way to a better way of relating? You are not alone! You deserve to be happy and fulfilled. You can heal and learn new ways of living! I hold the space in which a full and rewarding life is possible for you, even if you cannot yet imagine it for yourself.
(707) 570-3940 View (707) 570-3940
Photo of Conrad E Larkin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Conrad E Larkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95409
Recently I have focused on working with Elders and disabled persons who are dealing with loss and grief.
I focus on the underlining structure that contributes to a person's symptoms of anxiety and / or depression. During my 30 years as a therapist I have found that once an unworkable pattern is revealed and the emotions connected to that are expressed, your authentic self is more available. As the internal conflicts fade; relationships become more fulfilling and the meaning and purpose of your true nature becomes evident. I assist each person to create a plan that reflects their values and unique contributions in order to achieve that goal.
Recently I have focused on working with Elders and disabled persons who are dealing with loss and grief.
I focus on the underlining structure that contributes to a person's symptoms of anxiety and / or depression. During my 30 years as a therapist I have found that once an unworkable pattern is revealed and the emotions connected to that are expressed, your authentic self is more available. As the internal conflicts fade; relationships become more fulfilling and the meaning and purpose of your true nature becomes evident. I assist each person to create a plan that reflects their values and unique contributions in order to achieve that goal.
(707) 679-6041 View (707) 679-6041
Photo of Jessica Peters Malmberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Jessica Peters Malmberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
I bring a soul-oriented approach to working with grief and trauma, tending the places of growth and love that loss brings us.
I offer a relational, insightful, effective approach to therapy, aiming to help you find a sense of belonging and aliveness in the world. I welcome those who grieve, working with you to find the first hard steps after life has come undone, and with you as you learn to see in the dark. So often grief and trauma intertwine, and I offer help with the anxiety, vigilance, sleep problems, and relationship stress that often come with overwhelming experiences of trauma. Working with Brainspotting to access these places of trauma, and process them with careful attunement, I can help bring room for new perspectives and grounding in life.
I bring a soul-oriented approach to working with grief and trauma, tending the places of growth and love that loss brings us.
I offer a relational, insightful, effective approach to therapy, aiming to help you find a sense of belonging and aliveness in the world. I welcome those who grieve, working with you to find the first hard steps after life has come undone, and with you as you learn to see in the dark. So often grief and trauma intertwine, and I offer help with the anxiety, vigilance, sleep problems, and relationship stress that often come with overwhelming experiences of trauma. Working with Brainspotting to access these places of trauma, and process them with careful attunement, I can help bring room for new perspectives and grounding in life.
(707) 587-2223 View (707) 587-2223
Photo of Alissa Hirshfeld, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Alissa Hirshfeld
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95405
I am a seasoned therapist with over 25 years of experience working with clients of diverse backgrounds and orientations. My approach tailored toward each individual. I draw on decades of bereavement work (directing a hospice program), trauma (including EMDR), and mindfulness training (as a meditation and yoga instructor and spiritual director). Recently, I have been certified as a psychedelic-assisted therapist, work with ketamine, and provide integration. I'm a visual artist and writer and enjoy working with creative folks. Many of my clients come to me in the midst of grief, trauma, or life transitions. See alissahirshfeld.com
I am a seasoned therapist with over 25 years of experience working with clients of diverse backgrounds and orientations. My approach tailored toward each individual. I draw on decades of bereavement work (directing a hospice program), trauma (including EMDR), and mindfulness training (as a meditation and yoga instructor and spiritual director). Recently, I have been certified as a psychedelic-assisted therapist, work with ketamine, and provide integration. I'm a visual artist and writer and enjoy working with creative folks. Many of my clients come to me in the midst of grief, trauma, or life transitions. See alissahirshfeld.com
(707) 730-4840 View (707) 730-4840
Photo of All Rivers Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
All Rivers Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
Waitlist for new clients
My practice specializes in mental health, family life, trauma and addiction recovery for teens and adults. I am experienced in treating co-occurring issues of addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions and trauma. I have worked with pervasive mental illness, substance abuse, eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders as well attachment wounds and early childhood trauma. I help families and individuals untangle relationship and behavioral patterns and find new ways of relating to self and others, regulate emotions, identify core values and make meaningful and positive life changes.
My practice specializes in mental health, family life, trauma and addiction recovery for teens and adults. I am experienced in treating co-occurring issues of addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions and trauma. I have worked with pervasive mental illness, substance abuse, eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders as well attachment wounds and early childhood trauma. I help families and individuals untangle relationship and behavioral patterns and find new ways of relating to self and others, regulate emotions, identify core values and make meaningful and positive life changes.
(707) 456-6045 View (707) 456-6045
Photo of Kiran Haynes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Kiran Haynes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
I am particularly qualified in helping those with grief and loss, chronic illness, reproductive issues, questions of gender and sexuality, military personnel and their families, systemic trauma, attachment trauma, and non-traditional families (e.
Hello! My name is Kiran Haynes, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. By nurturing wholeness, a deep personal understanding, and empowerment, therapy can help foster lasting and positive change. I believe that collaboration in the therapeutic process is key as you are the expert in your own life. I take a compassionate approach while engaging and empowering you towards processing, exploring, and developing a deeper understanding and healthier relationship with yourself.
I am particularly qualified in helping those with grief and loss, chronic illness, reproductive issues, questions of gender and sexuality, military personnel and their families, systemic trauma, attachment trauma, and non-traditional families (e.
Hello! My name is Kiran Haynes, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. By nurturing wholeness, a deep personal understanding, and empowerment, therapy can help foster lasting and positive change. I believe that collaboration in the therapeutic process is key as you are the expert in your own life. I take a compassionate approach while engaging and empowering you towards processing, exploring, and developing a deeper understanding and healthier relationship with yourself.
(951) 944-1928 View (951) 944-1928
Photo of Mimi Rose Bashaw, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Mimi Rose Bashaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95409
Fulfillment from relationships and the transformation of heartbreak, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, and isolation are all possible. Sometimes we need outside support to help us identify our strengths and guide us down a path that leads to healing. With sensitivity and compassion, I integrate the most effective approaches that help my clients heal from the past and realize peace and happiness in their lives. I welcome individuals and couples of any gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, and spiritual beliefs. I have worked extensively with clients who have experienced altered states of consciousness and those who use cannabis as medicine.
Fulfillment from relationships and the transformation of heartbreak, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, and isolation are all possible. Sometimes we need outside support to help us identify our strengths and guide us down a path that leads to healing. With sensitivity and compassion, I integrate the most effective approaches that help my clients heal from the past and realize peace and happiness in their lives. I welcome individuals and couples of any gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, and spiritual beliefs. I have worked extensively with clients who have experienced altered states of consciousness and those who use cannabis as medicine.
(707) 723-4467 View (707) 723-4467
Photo of Mary M Good, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Mary M Good
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
Whoever you are, particularly if you sometimes find yourself lonely in the world, if you are a person of color, part of the LGBTQ community, if you wonder if you are too different, too difficult or just too much...You are welcome here. Here are some of the reasons folks find their way into my office: Depression/ Anxiety/ Grief/ Overwhelm/ Low Self-Esteem / Self Hatred/ Feeling lost or stuck/ Sorrow or fear about Climate Change / Degradation of the natural world.
Whoever you are, particularly if you sometimes find yourself lonely in the world, if you are a person of color, part of the LGBTQ community, if you wonder if you are too different, too difficult or just too much...You are welcome here. Here are some of the reasons folks find their way into my office: Depression/ Anxiety/ Grief/ Overwhelm/ Low Self-Esteem / Self Hatred/ Feeling lost or stuck/ Sorrow or fear about Climate Change / Degradation of the natural world.
(707) 346-5459 View (707) 346-5459
Photo of Debra Melmon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Debra Melmon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
Grief and loss is my specialty.
Therapy is the collaborative interaction between client and practitioner, both an art and a science. My practice is goal oriented and active, an eclectic blend of cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and mindfulness orientations customized to the unique needs of the client. Whether you are young or old, suffer from depression and anxiety or seeking clarity, I offer myself as a compassionate professional of self exploration.
Grief and loss is my specialty.
Therapy is the collaborative interaction between client and practitioner, both an art and a science. My practice is goal oriented and active, an eclectic blend of cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and mindfulness orientations customized to the unique needs of the client. Whether you are young or old, suffer from depression and anxiety or seeking clarity, I offer myself as a compassionate professional of self exploration.
(650) 727-9974 View (650) 727-9974
Photo of Skye Ashley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Skye Ashley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
Welcoming new clients. You don't have to go it alone. Finding the right person to walk alongside you during these extraordinary times can provide you with a deep sense of connection, guidance, and support. With a wealth of experience in working with grief/loss, trauma, and life transitions, my approach is warm and compassionate, drawing from various learned modalities. I integrate mindfulness, trauma-informed care, somatics, and curiosity to create a unique and effective therapeutic experience.
Welcoming new clients. You don't have to go it alone. Finding the right person to walk alongside you during these extraordinary times can provide you with a deep sense of connection, guidance, and support. With a wealth of experience in working with grief/loss, trauma, and life transitions, my approach is warm and compassionate, drawing from various learned modalities. I integrate mindfulness, trauma-informed care, somatics, and curiosity to create a unique and effective therapeutic experience.
(707) 872-1405 View (707) 872-1405
Photo of Marcia Greene, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Marcia Greene
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
Feel like you aren't living your best life? Are you looking to relieve discomfort from stress, trauma, or grief? Hoping to experience more satisfying relationships and fulfill your potential? People seek help because they want to feel better. While the course of therapy depends on many variables, when you work with me you get an expert in the art of listening which opens paths that are found in deep collaborative work in an environment of trust and safety. I am committed to working with care, efficiency and an intensity that can help reduce or alleviate your symptoms in as short a time as possible.
Feel like you aren't living your best life? Are you looking to relieve discomfort from stress, trauma, or grief? Hoping to experience more satisfying relationships and fulfill your potential? People seek help because they want to feel better. While the course of therapy depends on many variables, when you work with me you get an expert in the art of listening which opens paths that are found in deep collaborative work in an environment of trust and safety. I am committed to working with care, efficiency and an intensity that can help reduce or alleviate your symptoms in as short a time as possible.
(707) 383-3596 View (707) 383-3596
Photo of Sally Schoellkopf, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Sally Schoellkopf
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
So many people are struggling with anxiety, grief, depression, relationship difficulties, and parenting.
Welcome, my name is Sally Schoellkopf. I am a licensed Marriage, Family and Child Therapist (LMFT) with over 20 years of experience, and currently working with clients in California via telehealth. I am here to help you find greater well-being, self-acceptance and resolve the issues that are preventing you from living the full and positive life that you deserve. In my private practice and other settings, including schools, hospice, bereavement and agency centers, I have counseled adults, children, adolescents, families and groups to help them gain self-awareness, new insights and create positive change.
So many people are struggling with anxiety, grief, depression, relationship difficulties, and parenting.
Welcome, my name is Sally Schoellkopf. I am a licensed Marriage, Family and Child Therapist (LMFT) with over 20 years of experience, and currently working with clients in California via telehealth. I am here to help you find greater well-being, self-acceptance and resolve the issues that are preventing you from living the full and positive life that you deserve. In my private practice and other settings, including schools, hospice, bereavement and agency centers, I have counseled adults, children, adolescents, families and groups to help them gain self-awareness, new insights and create positive change.
(657) 571-3361 View (657) 571-3361
Photo of Mary Dunnigan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Mary Dunnigan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCI
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
I am a Psychotherapist practicing in Sonoma County, working with individuals and groups. I specialize in assisting First Responders and those suffering the effects of the job including Post Traumatic Stress Injury. As a Certified Crisis Intervention Specialist I treat those who have been involved in disasters and assist before, during, and in the aftermath of traumatic events and crisis situations. I am also experienced in issues relating to loss, such as: divorce, betrayal, loss of a loved one, retirement, as well as the loss of identity.
I am a Psychotherapist practicing in Sonoma County, working with individuals and groups. I specialize in assisting First Responders and those suffering the effects of the job including Post Traumatic Stress Injury. As a Certified Crisis Intervention Specialist I treat those who have been involved in disasters and assist before, during, and in the aftermath of traumatic events and crisis situations. I am also experienced in issues relating to loss, such as: divorce, betrayal, loss of a loved one, retirement, as well as the loss of identity.
(628) 210-8811 View (628) 210-8811
Photo of Romney Ryan, Psychologist in Santa Rosa, CA
Romney Ryan
Psychologist, PhD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
Over the past 25 years I have successfully treated adults, adolescents, and families for distressing problems such as anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), interpersonal/relationship issues, family struggles, grief and loss of a child, OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), Post-Partum Anxiety & OCD.
Are you or your child feeling depressed? Anxious? Whether you are an adult or a parent looking for help for your teenager, I can help you to overcome obstacles that may be keeping you from your ideal life. I work hard for my clients and families and am truly passionate about these relationships and my role in their lives. I am also expanding my practice with Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) in coordination with Journey Clinical. Please visit my website www.docromneyryan.com to see how we can work together. Call for a free consultation to see how my expertise could work for you!
Over the past 25 years I have successfully treated adults, adolescents, and families for distressing problems such as anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), interpersonal/relationship issues, family struggles, grief and loss of a child, OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), Post-Partum Anxiety & OCD.
Are you or your child feeling depressed? Anxious? Whether you are an adult or a parent looking for help for your teenager, I can help you to overcome obstacles that may be keeping you from your ideal life. I work hard for my clients and families and am truly passionate about these relationships and my role in their lives. I am also expanding my practice with Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) in coordination with Journey Clinical. Please visit my website www.docromneyryan.com to see how we can work together. Call for a free consultation to see how my expertise could work for you!
(707) 876-4515 View (707) 876-4515
Photo of Kate Blake, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Kate Blake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
I have experience working with multiple concerns including anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma including sexual trauma and domestic violence.
I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing the ongoing impacts of past trauma and are ready to heal and move forward. I have over 10 years of experience working with complex trauma (C-PTSD). I am certified in EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and also draw from Internal Family Systems Therapy. I believe both of these approaches are powerful tools to heal past trauma. I am also trained in Trauma-Focused CBT and DBT. As a trauma-informed therapist, I believe it is important to work at a pace that feels safe to you. I will offer support, guidance, and empathy throughout the process.
I have experience working with multiple concerns including anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma including sexual trauma and domestic violence.
I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing the ongoing impacts of past trauma and are ready to heal and move forward. I have over 10 years of experience working with complex trauma (C-PTSD). I am certified in EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and also draw from Internal Family Systems Therapy. I believe both of these approaches are powerful tools to heal past trauma. I am also trained in Trauma-Focused CBT and DBT. As a trauma-informed therapist, I believe it is important to work at a pace that feels safe to you. I will offer support, guidance, and empathy throughout the process.
(415) 798-9871 View (415) 798-9871
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.