Grief Therapists in Antioch, CA

Photo of Susan Burns, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Burns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94509
My name is Susan Burns, LCSW, and I have been in the mental health industry for over 24 years. My top specialties include Anxiety, Coping Skills, Relationship Issues, Job Stress, Grief, and Depression. My top modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Coaching, Culturally Sensitive, Strength Based, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. I have worked with individuals ranging from mild behavioral health issues to severely impaired functioning. I am a caring clinician who has positively impacted and healed many lives. I look forward to helping you on your journey of self-discovery and self-awareness.
My name is Susan Burns, LCSW, and I have been in the mental health industry for over 24 years. My top specialties include Anxiety, Coping Skills, Relationship Issues, Job Stress, Grief, and Depression. My top modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Coaching, Culturally Sensitive, Strength Based, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. I have worked with individuals ranging from mild behavioral health issues to severely impaired functioning. I am a caring clinician who has positively impacted and healed many lives. I look forward to helping you on your journey of self-discovery and self-awareness.
(951) 438-8289 View (951) 438-8289
Photo of Stella Petros, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stella Petros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94509
My name is Stella Petros. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Los Angeles, California. I have been in practice since 2005, and I specialize in working with adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, trauma, and related issues. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic, and solution-focused therapy approaches in treatment to assist my clients in meeting their treatment objectives.
My name is Stella Petros. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Los Angeles, California. I have been in practice since 2005, and I specialize in working with adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, trauma, and related issues. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic, and solution-focused therapy approaches in treatment to assist my clients in meeting their treatment objectives.
(925) 248-4895 View (925) 248-4895
Photo of Alexándrea Evans Oneal, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexándrea Evans Oneal
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Antioch, CA 94509  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, youth, and families to address trauma, emotion regulation, family dynamics, communication, identity, and loss.
To heal is to touch with love that which was previously touched by fear. We all have times when we need extra support to work through life's challenges. Whether it be mental health concerns, trauma, relationship dynamics, identity exploration, life transitions, family relations, work stressors, or any other difficult circumstance; you don't have to walk this journey alone. Together we will work to empower you to put your needs first and take steps to reach your goals. Everyone has a story and is worthy of space to tell it, and together we will honor, heal, and learn from your experiences.
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, youth, and families to address trauma, emotion regulation, family dynamics, communication, identity, and loss.
To heal is to touch with love that which was previously touched by fear. We all have times when we need extra support to work through life's challenges. Whether it be mental health concerns, trauma, relationship dynamics, identity exploration, life transitions, family relations, work stressors, or any other difficult circumstance; you don't have to walk this journey alone. Together we will work to empower you to put your needs first and take steps to reach your goals. Everyone has a story and is worthy of space to tell it, and together we will honor, heal, and learn from your experiences.
(510) 313-7044 View (510) 313-7044
Photo of Kathryn Buys, MFT, ACSP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathryn Buys
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, ACSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Antioch, CA 94509
I have moved through spirals of grief & big challenges.
If you are a woman ready for more happiness, more peace, & a greater sense of choice, I am here to guide you on your way. Your depression, anxiety, or relationship challenges may be signals that something greater is around the corner. If they persist, though, it’s a good time to find someone who can re-orient you so that you’re on the path of a joyful life, a life of intention, a life where empowerment and “yes!” are within reach. I work with women who feel even just a slight spark of knowing that this path might be available. We may start with mindfulness & how to cope with the effects of trauma and depression so you can thrive.
I have moved through spirals of grief & big challenges.
If you are a woman ready for more happiness, more peace, & a greater sense of choice, I am here to guide you on your way. Your depression, anxiety, or relationship challenges may be signals that something greater is around the corner. If they persist, though, it’s a good time to find someone who can re-orient you so that you’re on the path of a joyful life, a life of intention, a life where empowerment and “yes!” are within reach. I work with women who feel even just a slight spark of knowing that this path might be available. We may start with mindfulness & how to cope with the effects of trauma and depression so you can thrive.
(925) 291-5873 View (925) 291-5873
Photo of Jacquie Josephson, CP, Psychologist
Jacquie Josephson
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94509
My name is Jacquie Josephson, PsyD, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I work with individuals who struggle with symptoms that are related to depression, anxiety, and trauma which include things like self-esteem issues, grief, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and substance abuse. I provide psychotherapy with a client-centered approach, meaning that my work is a collaborative process where my client's expressed goals are the guide for their treatment. I utilize a few approaches including psychodynamic, relational, EMDR, internal family systems, somatic, and mindfulness modalities.
My name is Jacquie Josephson, PsyD, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I work with individuals who struggle with symptoms that are related to depression, anxiety, and trauma which include things like self-esteem issues, grief, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and substance abuse. I provide psychotherapy with a client-centered approach, meaning that my work is a collaborative process where my client's expressed goals are the guide for their treatment. I utilize a few approaches including psychodynamic, relational, EMDR, internal family systems, somatic, and mindfulness modalities.
(925) 430-7841 View (925) 430-7841
Photo of Maria Najera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Najera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94509  (Online Only)
I am so happy you are here! My name is Maria Najera, and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I am licensed in California with over 7 years of professional work experience. My focus areas of practice include helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, and coping with grief and loss. My focus areas of practice include helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, and coping with grief and loss.
I am so happy you are here! My name is Maria Najera, and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I am licensed in California with over 7 years of professional work experience. My focus areas of practice include helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, and coping with grief and loss. My focus areas of practice include helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, and coping with grief and loss.
(925) 397-1937 View (925) 397-1937
Photo of Kimally Samuels, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimally Samuels
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94509  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in depression/anxiety, trauma, and loss.
I am blessed and humbled by the opportunity to do what I love, which is working with people. Are you in need of support and understanding? Life can be difficult; having someone to share your feelings with can be equally difficult. I am compassionate, caring and nuturing. I provide a secure space for you to talk about your emotions openly without judgement.
I specialize in depression/anxiety, trauma, and loss.
I am blessed and humbled by the opportunity to do what I love, which is working with people. Are you in need of support and understanding? Life can be difficult; having someone to share your feelings with can be equally difficult. I am compassionate, caring and nuturing. I provide a secure space for you to talk about your emotions openly without judgement.
(925) 489-1492 View (925) 489-1492
Photo of Elisa Padilla, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elisa Padilla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94509
My name is Elisa Padilla and I'm an LCSW. I understand the vulnerability required to ask for support and for this reason, I approach therapy with a deep sense of kindness, openness, compassion, humility, and respect. I create a space to address the heaviness that being human can entail because I also see the light and freedom that can be cultivated when we are brave enough to address our emotional wounds. I work with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, self-worth/self-esteem issues, life transitions/adjustments (e.g., role change, relocation), grief/ loss (e.g., divorce, death of loved one) and care giver burn out.
My name is Elisa Padilla and I'm an LCSW. I understand the vulnerability required to ask for support and for this reason, I approach therapy with a deep sense of kindness, openness, compassion, humility, and respect. I create a space to address the heaviness that being human can entail because I also see the light and freedom that can be cultivated when we are brave enough to address our emotional wounds. I work with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, self-worth/self-esteem issues, life transitions/adjustments (e.g., role change, relocation), grief/ loss (e.g., divorce, death of loved one) and care giver burn out.
(925) 940-8680 View (925) 940-8680
Photo of Daisy Juarez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daisy Juarez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94509
Hi there, I'm Daisy! I am a bilingual (Spanish/English) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked as a therapist in school and clinical settings, which has allowed me to work with various issues, including anxiety, life transitions, depression, grief, and more. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I use a variety of modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, and Client-Centered therapy. My role will be to provide you with support, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I hope to be part of your journey toward growth, healing, and well-being.
Hi there, I'm Daisy! I am a bilingual (Spanish/English) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked as a therapist in school and clinical settings, which has allowed me to work with various issues, including anxiety, life transitions, depression, grief, and more. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I use a variety of modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, and Client-Centered therapy. My role will be to provide you with support, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I hope to be part of your journey toward growth, healing, and well-being.
(760) 965-7094 View (760) 965-7094
Photo of DeShannon Williamson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
DeShannon Williamson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94509  (Online Only)
I have advanced specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma and Grief, American Society of Addiction Medicine Assessment (ASAM), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I offer expertise in evidence-based treatments for anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties. I use a collaborative and strengths-based approach that integrates cultural factors as appropriate. I was raised in an inner-city, urban area, and I carry a high level of understanding for individuals that come from marginalized environments like myself. I also specialize in professional and work stress. I have been a business owner, philanthropist, and investor for almost 30 years. I have experience with high output career stress and how it can affect us.
I have advanced specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma and Grief, American Society of Addiction Medicine Assessment (ASAM), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I offer expertise in evidence-based treatments for anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties. I use a collaborative and strengths-based approach that integrates cultural factors as appropriate. I was raised in an inner-city, urban area, and I carry a high level of understanding for individuals that come from marginalized environments like myself. I also specialize in professional and work stress. I have been a business owner, philanthropist, and investor for almost 30 years. I have experience with high output career stress and how it can affect us.
(925) 587-8330 View (925) 587-8330
Photo of Demetra Thomas, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Demetra Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, SAP
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94509
I provide tools to improve depression, anxiety, stress, abuse, parent-teen conflict, domestic violence, identity issues, self esteem, grief and loss.
I am a licensed Psychotherapist and certified Mediator with over twenty-five years of experience working with women, men, children, and adolescents from diverse backgrounds, providing crisis intervention, risk assessment, individual and family therapy. I provide a supportive environment and build upon your personal strengths and resilience. Therapy can be an opportunity to help you take control of your own feelings and behavior by uncovering connections between past experiences and/or your current symptoms.
I provide tools to improve depression, anxiety, stress, abuse, parent-teen conflict, domestic violence, identity issues, self esteem, grief and loss.
I am a licensed Psychotherapist and certified Mediator with over twenty-five years of experience working with women, men, children, and adolescents from diverse backgrounds, providing crisis intervention, risk assessment, individual and family therapy. I provide a supportive environment and build upon your personal strengths and resilience. Therapy can be an opportunity to help you take control of your own feelings and behavior by uncovering connections between past experiences and/or your current symptoms.
(925) 402-4188 View (925) 402-4188
Photo of Debra M Kobold, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debra M Kobold
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Antioch, CA 94509
I have extensive experience in working with Adolescents and Adults who have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder, Addictions, Self-Harming Behaviors, Trauma, PTSD, Grief, Co-dependency, Depression, Anxiety, and Suicide Ideation.
I will help you learn to appreciate your emotional identity through managing moods, thoughts, impulsiveness, reactivity, and harmful behaviors. I will help you strengthen or repair your relationships and build new ones. I'll help you cultivate confidence to ask for what you want, set boundaries with others, and navigate family issues. I can also teach you social skills if you feel out of place at work or school.
I have extensive experience in working with Adolescents and Adults who have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder, Addictions, Self-Harming Behaviors, Trauma, PTSD, Grief, Co-dependency, Depression, Anxiety, and Suicide Ideation.
I will help you learn to appreciate your emotional identity through managing moods, thoughts, impulsiveness, reactivity, and harmful behaviors. I will help you strengthen or repair your relationships and build new ones. I'll help you cultivate confidence to ask for what you want, set boundaries with others, and navigate family issues. I can also teach you social skills if you feel out of place at work or school.
(925) 259-3746 View (925) 259-3746
Photo of Jocelyn Parros, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jocelyn Parros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94531  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years experience working with adults, children, adolescents, families and couples of diverse backgrounds and ethnicities who have experienced family dysfunction, trauma, abuse, sudden loss, and crime victimization.
Everyone deserves support in a crisis. For some, it may have been an event that occurred years ago, and for others it is more recent. Seeking professional help and support is often times the first step to coping with a difficult life period or transition. I believe that healing and empowerment are wholly achievable and begin with a trusting and accepting therapist-client relationship in a safe therapeutic environment.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years experience working with adults, children, adolescents, families and couples of diverse backgrounds and ethnicities who have experienced family dysfunction, trauma, abuse, sudden loss, and crime victimization.
Everyone deserves support in a crisis. For some, it may have been an event that occurred years ago, and for others it is more recent. Seeking professional help and support is often times the first step to coping with a difficult life period or transition. I believe that healing and empowerment are wholly achievable and begin with a trusting and accepting therapist-client relationship in a safe therapeutic environment.
(925) 402-1015 View (925) 402-1015
Photo of Raquel C Hare, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Raquel C Hare
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Antioch, CA 94531
My approach in treating most symptoms presented in therapy such as PTSD, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and relational issues include a range of evidence-based techniques involving trauma-informed therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, among other modalities.
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Are you struggling with relationship concerns? Are you a parent struggling with your teenage child? Psychotherapy gives us the opportunity to better understand our problems and allows us to make the important changes we want. Psychotherapy can be useful for people with a variety of psychological disorders, ranging from stress to phobias, and relational issues.
My approach in treating most symptoms presented in therapy such as PTSD, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and relational issues include a range of evidence-based techniques involving trauma-informed therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, among other modalities.
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Are you struggling with relationship concerns? Are you a parent struggling with your teenage child? Psychotherapy gives us the opportunity to better understand our problems and allows us to make the important changes we want. Psychotherapy can be useful for people with a variety of psychological disorders, ranging from stress to phobias, and relational issues.
(925) 900-5592 View (925) 900-5592
Photo of Mattie Spires-Peppers, L, M, F, T, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mattie Spires-Peppers
Marriage & Family Therapist, L, M, F, T
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94509
Hello my name is Mattie Spires-Peppers and I am a graduate of J.F.K.U. I work with adolescents, adults, and families providing therapy using a variety of modalities but, work with most clients using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focus Therapy. I have worked with many clients that were experiencing trauma, grief, depression and bullying. As a therapist it is important to provide a safe environment where clients can speak freely without judgement. Clients can work through identify and understand patterns and behaviors in everyday life to promote growth and remove old behaviors causing stress and anxiety.
Hello my name is Mattie Spires-Peppers and I am a graduate of J.F.K.U. I work with adolescents, adults, and families providing therapy using a variety of modalities but, work with most clients using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focus Therapy. I have worked with many clients that were experiencing trauma, grief, depression and bullying. As a therapist it is important to provide a safe environment where clients can speak freely without judgement. Clients can work through identify and understand patterns and behaviors in everyday life to promote growth and remove old behaviors causing stress and anxiety.
(209) 362-3835 View (209) 362-3835
Photo of Leslie Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94531
My name is Leslie Davis. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Francisco, California and work with clients statewide via telehealth. My experience includes 20 years in the clinical psychotherapy and professional counseling arena, working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, and complex trauma. I provide individual therapy to adults experiencing a wide range of concerns and mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic pain, complex trauma/PTSD, grief/ loss, self-esteem, substance abuse, and relationship issues.
My name is Leslie Davis. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Francisco, California and work with clients statewide via telehealth. My experience includes 20 years in the clinical psychotherapy and professional counseling arena, working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, and complex trauma. I provide individual therapy to adults experiencing a wide range of concerns and mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic pain, complex trauma/PTSD, grief/ loss, self-esteem, substance abuse, and relationship issues.
(858) 780-5325 View (858) 780-5325
Photo of Feyi Momoh, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Feyi Momoh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Antioch, CA 94531  (Online Only)
Hello There! Thank you for joining me in this space. I understand how difficult it can be to initiate first contact when seeking therapy. I believe that the first step is often the most challenging but your decision to show up today is half the battle. Whether you are struggling to adjust to life transitions, experiencing depression, anxiety, grief & loss, relationship conflict, or trauma, there is hope and things can improve. I aim to help you discover your true self and your strengths while adjusting to life’s challenges. Allow me to guide you as we undertake this process together.
Hello There! Thank you for joining me in this space. I understand how difficult it can be to initiate first contact when seeking therapy. I believe that the first step is often the most challenging but your decision to show up today is half the battle. Whether you are struggling to adjust to life transitions, experiencing depression, anxiety, grief & loss, relationship conflict, or trauma, there is hope and things can improve. I aim to help you discover your true self and your strengths while adjusting to life’s challenges. Allow me to guide you as we undertake this process together.
(925) 406-3068 View (925) 406-3068
Photo of Paul Kramer, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94531
I help people find creative ways to reinvent themselves after divorce, loss of a spouse, and other major life transitions.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
I help people find creative ways to reinvent themselves after divorce, loss of a spouse, and other major life transitions.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(510) 591-4976 View (510) 591-4976
Photo of Miguel Balderas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Miguel Balderas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94531
Hello, I am Miguel! My name is Miguel Balderas, and I am an LMFT providing telehealth services to clients throughout the state of California. I work with adults, specializing in couples with relationship issues and individuals with anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss, and trauma. I utilize a client-centered approach that is non-judgmental, and empathic, and maintain an open mind to help people find solutions to the issues they bring to therapy. Each person’s perspective of their experiences is unique, and I work with clients to develop a treatment plan that is uniquely tailored to work for them.
Hello, I am Miguel! My name is Miguel Balderas, and I am an LMFT providing telehealth services to clients throughout the state of California. I work with adults, specializing in couples with relationship issues and individuals with anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss, and trauma. I utilize a client-centered approach that is non-judgmental, and empathic, and maintain an open mind to help people find solutions to the issues they bring to therapy. Each person’s perspective of their experiences is unique, and I work with clients to develop a treatment plan that is uniquely tailored to work for them.
(657) 385-8298 View (657) 385-8298
Photo of Paul Kramer, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Antioch, CA 94509
I help people find creative ways to reinvent themselves after divorce, loss of a spouse, and other major life transitions.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
I help people find creative ways to reinvent themselves after divorce, loss of a spouse, and other major life transitions.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(510) 350-3542 View (510) 350-3542
1
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.