Photo of Emma T Phan, PsyD, Psychologist
Emma T Phan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91914
If you have ever felt overwhelmed, frustrated, lost, or that no one understands, you are not alone. We all have issues and need some form of tune-up every now and then. No problems are too large or too small to seek therapy. I work with children, teens, adults with various concerns including depression, adjustment issues, bereavement, anxiety, substance abuse, spiritual issues, major axis 1 disorders, and personality disorders. I specialize in working with Asians, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders but also work with all populations. My therapy is individualized and tailored to the person and the presenting issue.
If you have ever felt overwhelmed, frustrated, lost, or that no one understands, you are not alone. We all have issues and need some form of tune-up every now and then. No problems are too large or too small to seek therapy. I work with children, teens, adults with various concerns including depression, adjustment issues, bereavement, anxiety, substance abuse, spiritual issues, major axis 1 disorders, and personality disorders. I specialize in working with Asians, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders but also work with all populations. My therapy is individualized and tailored to the person and the presenting issue.
(619) 357-4081 View (619) 357-4081
Photo of Gertrudis Vargas -Positive Minds Counseling, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gertrudis Vargas -Positive Minds Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91910  (Online Only)
Telehealth (Video) Only. My name is Gertrudis and I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 14 years of experience. My clinical expertise is in working with children, teenagers, and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and stress. I also have much experience in helping people dealing with relationship problems, life transitions, grief, trauma and parenting challenges. My aim is to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment to help clients become empowered in managing overwhelming feelings such as sever stress, anxiety and depression.
Telehealth (Video) Only. My name is Gertrudis and I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 14 years of experience. My clinical expertise is in working with children, teenagers, and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and stress. I also have much experience in helping people dealing with relationship problems, life transitions, grief, trauma and parenting challenges. My aim is to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment to help clients become empowered in managing overwhelming feelings such as sever stress, anxiety and depression.
(619) 492-7323 View (619) 492-7323
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91910
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(858) 221-9423 View (858) 221-9423
Photo of Alcira Ascencio, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alcira Ascencio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91910  (Online Only)
You made the decision to look for a therapist, nice! Whether this is your first time wondering into the world of therapy, it's time for an emotional tune-up, or the pain of what happened has grown to be too much, I am truly happy you are reaching out. I deeply believe that it is within safe relationships that we can attain our greatest insights and have the most healing experiences. So if you, or a loved one, is struggling with anxiety, difficult memories, nightmares, ongoing worries, deep sadness, stuck in patterns that no longer serve your goals, or find yourself acting in ways that sabotage your present, then I can help.
You made the decision to look for a therapist, nice! Whether this is your first time wondering into the world of therapy, it's time for an emotional tune-up, or the pain of what happened has grown to be too much, I am truly happy you are reaching out. I deeply believe that it is within safe relationships that we can attain our greatest insights and have the most healing experiences. So if you, or a loved one, is struggling with anxiety, difficult memories, nightmares, ongoing worries, deep sadness, stuck in patterns that no longer serve your goals, or find yourself acting in ways that sabotage your present, then I can help.
(916) 589-6114 View (916) 589-6114
Photo of Christiana Silva, PhD, Psychologist
Christiana Silva
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91910
Dr. Silva is the Chief Behavior Health Officer for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
Dr. Silva is the Chief Behavior Health Officer for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
(619) 916-4099 View (619) 916-4099
Photo of Lauren Renea Smith, PsyD, Psychologist
Lauren Renea Smith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91911  (Online Only)
We all have times in our lives when we need additional support. Times when we feel like stress and circumstances have taken over and we find ourselves dysregulated and out of balance. Maybe you have been trying to conceive and are dealing with the stress of fertility treatments which can affect our mood, relationships and can make us feel disconnected from our own bodies. Or perhaps you are dealing with chronic pain or ongoing health conditions such as an autoimmune disease or obesity. Many of these conditions create great burden on our emotional well being and can make us feel isolated and unworthy.
We all have times in our lives when we need additional support. Times when we feel like stress and circumstances have taken over and we find ourselves dysregulated and out of balance. Maybe you have been trying to conceive and are dealing with the stress of fertility treatments which can affect our mood, relationships and can make us feel disconnected from our own bodies. Or perhaps you are dealing with chronic pain or ongoing health conditions such as an autoimmune disease or obesity. Many of these conditions create great burden on our emotional well being and can make us feel isolated and unworthy.
(626) 772-6581 View (626) 772-6581
Photo of Cathy Lisseth Ramirez, LMFT, MA, RADT-1, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy Lisseth Ramirez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, RADT-1
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91913
Are you feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to turn? Have you been feeling down and hopeless and don't know what to do? How about nervous, anxious, or on edge? Maybe you feel stuck and don't know who to talk to. Does it feel your partner/spouse is not meeting your needs and it’s difficult to communicate? Are you struggling to speak about your issues because you believe you will be judged? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I am proud of you for taking the first step of reaching out. I personally know t
Are you feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to turn? Have you been feeling down and hopeless and don't know what to do? How about nervous, anxious, or on edge? Maybe you feel stuck and don't know who to talk to. Does it feel your partner/spouse is not meeting your needs and it’s difficult to communicate? Are you struggling to speak about your issues because you believe you will be judged? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I am proud of you for taking the first step of reaching out. I personally know t
(619) 768-2925 View (619) 768-2925
Photo of Dr. Emily N Kierce - Dr. Emily N. Kierce, PsyD, NCSP, Psychologist
Dr. Emily N. Kierce
Psychologist, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91915
Sentiero is an outpatient practice comprised of school psychologists, clinical psychologists, and registered psychological associates who conduct psychotherapy and psychological assessments. The approach at Sentiero is not a “one size fits all” model. While many of our clinicians utilize various theoretic modalities, we are grounded in psychoanalytic theory and tailor treatment to the needs of the patient.
Sentiero is an outpatient practice comprised of school psychologists, clinical psychologists, and registered psychological associates who conduct psychotherapy and psychological assessments. The approach at Sentiero is not a “one size fits all” model. While many of our clinicians utilize various theoretic modalities, we are grounded in psychoanalytic theory and tailor treatment to the needs of the patient.
(619) 773-0120 View (619) 773-0120

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Linda Shanti McCabe, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Linda Shanti McCabe
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
If you are experiencing grief, I can be a cheerleader for post traumatic growth.
Do you want to learn to carry grief with grace? Do you feel despair or shame from eating emotionally? Does it seem impossible to accept your body? Have you lost a loved one to Cancer or COVID? Grief and eating disorder recovery are my specialties. I can help you recover from disordered eating/body image hatred, and not pass it on to your daughter. I work with women on body acceptance, and a non-diet approach to recovery. I can assist you in learning love your life, even after loss. I can help guide you in learning to carry grief with grace.
If you are experiencing grief, I can be a cheerleader for post traumatic growth.
Do you want to learn to carry grief with grace? Do you feel despair or shame from eating emotionally? Does it seem impossible to accept your body? Have you lost a loved one to Cancer or COVID? Grief and eating disorder recovery are my specialties. I can help you recover from disordered eating/body image hatred, and not pass it on to your daughter. I work with women on body acceptance, and a non-diet approach to recovery. I can assist you in learning love your life, even after loss. I can help guide you in learning to carry grief with grace.
(415) 413-3940 View (415) 413-3940
Photo of Heather Glover, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Glover
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
With couples, I use the Emotionally Focused Therapy approach to address relationship issues including constant arguing, lack of trust, poor communication, emotional traumas, and loss of connection.
If you're ready for change, or contemplating change, I'm ready to help you achieve it! Together, we can take your biggest challenges and use them as opportunities to thrive. My focus is providing support to individuals, couples, and families in need of healing and positive change. I will provide a compassionate and comfortable space to help you manage and resolve life challenges including binge eating/compulsive overeating, stress, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, weathering change, anger management, and conflict in relationships!
With couples, I use the Emotionally Focused Therapy approach to address relationship issues including constant arguing, lack of trust, poor communication, emotional traumas, and loss of connection.
If you're ready for change, or contemplating change, I'm ready to help you achieve it! Together, we can take your biggest challenges and use them as opportunities to thrive. My focus is providing support to individuals, couples, and families in need of healing and positive change. I will provide a compassionate and comfortable space to help you manage and resolve life challenges including binge eating/compulsive overeating, stress, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, weathering change, anger management, and conflict in relationships!
(858) 309-4632 View (858) 309-4632
Photo of Madeline Weerts, AMFT
Madeline Weerts
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
Hello, I'm Maddie. I feel grateful to support individuals, partners, and families on their growth journeys. I work with clients to create a space where they can feel comfortable to reflect, cry, laugh, think – be authentically themselves. I have worked extensively with adolescents and adults facing anxiety and depression, negative body image and eating disorders, substance use, and other co-occurring struggles. I am passionate about guiding clients through trauma, loss, and grief - because no one should have to navigate it alone.
Hello, I'm Maddie. I feel grateful to support individuals, partners, and families on their growth journeys. I work with clients to create a space where they can feel comfortable to reflect, cry, laugh, think – be authentically themselves. I have worked extensively with adolescents and adults facing anxiety and depression, negative body image and eating disorders, substance use, and other co-occurring struggles. I am passionate about guiding clients through trauma, loss, and grief - because no one should have to navigate it alone.
(619) 350-2734 View (619) 350-2734
Photo of Shoshana Shea, PhD, Psychologist
Shoshana Shea
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
I work collaboratively with clients to help them engage with the wisdom from within to move with purpose and meaning in their lives. I see a wide range of clients from diverse backgrounds, age ranges, and with various clinical issues. My focus is on helping people create more life balance, facilitate self-growth, and enhance self-esteem. I specialize in treating stress, anxiety, depression, weight, eating, body image, grief, trauma, high functioning autism, and in helping people through challenges related to relationship, academic, work, parenting, and life transitions.
I work collaboratively with clients to help them engage with the wisdom from within to move with purpose and meaning in their lives. I see a wide range of clients from diverse backgrounds, age ranges, and with various clinical issues. My focus is on helping people create more life balance, facilitate self-growth, and enhance self-esteem. I specialize in treating stress, anxiety, depression, weight, eating, body image, grief, trauma, high functioning autism, and in helping people through challenges related to relationship, academic, work, parenting, and life transitions.
(619) 940-1371 View (619) 940-1371
Photo of Adam Moore, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adam Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in San Diego, California who has been working in the field of psychology since 2013. I have experience working in residential, schools, outpatient, and crisis settings as well as work now in my own private practice with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, addiction, relationship issues, parenting problems, social concerns, life transitions, grief/ loss, trauma, abuse, crisis situations, and general adjustment issues. I have diagnosed and helped clients work through most of the disorders listed in the DSM-5.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in San Diego, California who has been working in the field of psychology since 2013. I have experience working in residential, schools, outpatient, and crisis settings as well as work now in my own private practice with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, addiction, relationship issues, parenting problems, social concerns, life transitions, grief/ loss, trauma, abuse, crisis situations, and general adjustment issues. I have diagnosed and helped clients work through most of the disorders listed in the DSM-5.
(619) 345-5939 View (619) 345-5939
Photo of Renee Susette Miles - Renee Miles LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Miles LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience of working with children and families which has afforded me the opportunity to work with a variety of clinical concerns including trauma, PTSD, domestic violence, divorce, infidelity, addiction, stress management, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief, difficult life-transitions and alternative lifestyle counseling.
As your therapist, my primary goal is for you to feel safe and comfortable in an environment where you feel valued and understood. I have a warm, honest and empathic approach with my clients and believe that every person has the ability to heal and reach their true potential in life. My approach is eclectic, believing that every person is unique with their own life experiences and perceptions. It is for this reason that your experience in therapy will be tailored to your needs so that you can reach your goals in a supportive, nurturing environment.
I have over 20 years of experience of working with children and families which has afforded me the opportunity to work with a variety of clinical concerns including trauma, PTSD, domestic violence, divorce, infidelity, addiction, stress management, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief, difficult life-transitions and alternative lifestyle counseling.
As your therapist, my primary goal is for you to feel safe and comfortable in an environment where you feel valued and understood. I have a warm, honest and empathic approach with my clients and believe that every person has the ability to heal and reach their true potential in life. My approach is eclectic, believing that every person is unique with their own life experiences and perceptions. It is for this reason that your experience in therapy will be tailored to your needs so that you can reach your goals in a supportive, nurturing environment.
(760) 659-7833 View (760) 659-7833
Photo of Sierra Sparks - Sierra Therapy Center, LMFT
Sierra Therapy Center
LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
We offer many modalities to individuals, couples, families and children - EMDR, Brainspotting, couples therapy, group therapy, anxiety, depression, trauma grief work, and more.
Our story: Some of the best physicians are wounded healers, those who have walked through pain and suffering themselves only to emerge on the other side to help others. We believe strongly in the human capacity to heal. Our counseling specialists work with children/teens, adults, couples and families. With sensitivity and compassion, we help you bring resolution to the struggles you are facing. Modalities range from depth therapy, IMAGO couples therapy, Brainspotting, EMDR, play therapy, addiction groups to solution focused. We are trained in a variety of different therapeutic interventions that will fit what you need.
We offer many modalities to individuals, couples, families and children - EMDR, Brainspotting, couples therapy, group therapy, anxiety, depression, trauma grief work, and more.
Our story: Some of the best physicians are wounded healers, those who have walked through pain and suffering themselves only to emerge on the other side to help others. We believe strongly in the human capacity to heal. Our counseling specialists work with children/teens, adults, couples and families. With sensitivity and compassion, we help you bring resolution to the struggles you are facing. Modalities range from depth therapy, IMAGO couples therapy, Brainspotting, EMDR, play therapy, addiction groups to solution focused. We are trained in a variety of different therapeutic interventions that will fit what you need.
(530) 419-5189 View (530) 419-5189
Photo of Rika Tanaka, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Rika Tanaka
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Coronado, CA 92118
Life is hard! Whether it’s dealing with everyday hassles (e.g. work or family/relationship-related stress) or big life events (e.g. death of a loved one, a new diagnosis, trauma, job loss, divorce, marriage, retirement, or welcoming home a new baby), life can really take a toll on us all! If you feel like you’re worried about everything (all the time!) or if you feel like you’ve somehow lost your sense of confidence or joy along the way, I am here to help! As a licensed psychologist, I help young adults (18+), adults, and seniors (65+) just like you cope with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, health stress, and more.
Life is hard! Whether it’s dealing with everyday hassles (e.g. work or family/relationship-related stress) or big life events (e.g. death of a loved one, a new diagnosis, trauma, job loss, divorce, marriage, retirement, or welcoming home a new baby), life can really take a toll on us all! If you feel like you’re worried about everything (all the time!) or if you feel like you’ve somehow lost your sense of confidence or joy along the way, I am here to help! As a licensed psychologist, I help young adults (18+), adults, and seniors (65+) just like you cope with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, health stress, and more.
(619) 554-0120 View (619) 554-0120
Photo of Jessica Egan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Egan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
I am passionate about normalizing clients' struggles and value an individualized approach to therapy. I recognize that every individual is unique and find value in tailoring treatment strategies to suit the specific needs and circumstances of each client. Having embarked on my own healing journey, I understand the significance of building a strong therapeutic relationship. This requires openness and vulnerability; I aim to normalize and validate your experiences so you can be comfortable in processing any form or trauma or obstacle you have experienced.
I am passionate about normalizing clients' struggles and value an individualized approach to therapy. I recognize that every individual is unique and find value in tailoring treatment strategies to suit the specific needs and circumstances of each client. Having embarked on my own healing journey, I understand the significance of building a strong therapeutic relationship. This requires openness and vulnerability; I aim to normalize and validate your experiences so you can be comfortable in processing any form or trauma or obstacle you have experienced.
(619) 304-7297 View (619) 304-7297
Photo of Ally Ransdell Emdr Trained, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ally Ransdell Emdr Trained
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182  (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome! I’m Ally, an EMDR trained Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Sacramento, CA offering both virtual and in person sessions. I received my Masters from the University of Southern California and have nearly a decade of experience. While I work with individuals of all backgrounds, many of my clients are young adults navigating life stressors, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and life transitions.
Hello and Welcome! I’m Ally, an EMDR trained Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Sacramento, CA offering both virtual and in person sessions. I received my Masters from the University of Southern California and have nearly a decade of experience. While I work with individuals of all backgrounds, many of my clients are young adults navigating life stressors, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and life transitions.
(916) 885-5234 View (916) 885-5234
Photo of Ryan Dumke, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Ryan Dumke
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coronado, CA 92118
Hello! In a world that can feel rough and insensitive, with pasts that feel like they can choke us, it can be hard to move past the weight of our histories and our own minds. I'm here to help you figure out problems you want to overcome, what goals and life you want, and work with you to get there. I work with mood disorders (depression), anxiety disorders (OCD, Generalized Anxiety, panic), trauma-spectrum disorders (PTSD), relationship problems, intimacy issues, emotional problems, work and academic issues, and generalized coaching. Reach out and we'll figure it out together! Call 619-500-8967 for a free consult.
Hello! In a world that can feel rough and insensitive, with pasts that feel like they can choke us, it can be hard to move past the weight of our histories and our own minds. I'm here to help you figure out problems you want to overcome, what goals and life you want, and work with you to get there. I work with mood disorders (depression), anxiety disorders (OCD, Generalized Anxiety, panic), trauma-spectrum disorders (PTSD), relationship problems, intimacy issues, emotional problems, work and academic issues, and generalized coaching. Reach out and we'll figure it out together! Call 619-500-8967 for a free consult.
(760) 239-5626 View (760) 239-5626
Photo of Michelle Beaudoin, LPCC CA, LMHC NY, LPC TX, NCC
Michelle Beaudoin
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC CA, LMHC NY, LPC TX, NCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92175
I'm passionate about helping people who want to make changes in their lives and who want to fulfill their potential, but who don't know where or how to start. I have decades-long experience providing support to people from all walks of life with all types of issues--with a focus on individuals struggling with addictive behaviors, unresolved traumas, and eating disorders. My special interest is working with adults who want to change their alcohol/drug use and with those who struggle with their relationship with food--such as tending to binge eat, to use food as a way to self-soothe or as a punishment or reward. Message/call today!
I'm passionate about helping people who want to make changes in their lives and who want to fulfill their potential, but who don't know where or how to start. I have decades-long experience providing support to people from all walks of life with all types of issues--with a focus on individuals struggling with addictive behaviors, unresolved traumas, and eating disorders. My special interest is working with adults who want to change their alcohol/drug use and with those who struggle with their relationship with food--such as tending to binge eat, to use food as a way to self-soothe or as a punishment or reward. Message/call today!
(346) 449-5286 View (346) 449-5286

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.