Grief Therapists in Escondido, CA

Photo of Anitalyn Sinclair, LCSW, BCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anitalyn Sinclair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCC
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92026
I also have expertise in grief and loss, including pet loss.
Hi, I’m Anitalyn (like Anita and Lyn put together into one word). I’m so glad you stopped by! I specialize in helping people cope with major life stressors, and even minor life stressors. Adjustment on any level can be really hard. I’m also deeply familiar with the polyamory community and the kink community, very familiar with the swingers' community and similar alternative lifestyle communities, and I’m an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community. I believe this world would be a better place if everyone could let go of judgment.
I also have expertise in grief and loss, including pet loss.
Hi, I’m Anitalyn (like Anita and Lyn put together into one word). I’m so glad you stopped by! I specialize in helping people cope with major life stressors, and even minor life stressors. Adjustment on any level can be really hard. I’m also deeply familiar with the polyamory community and the kink community, very familiar with the swingers' community and similar alternative lifestyle communities, and I’m an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community. I believe this world would be a better place if everyone could let go of judgment.
(760) 273-3204 View (760) 273-3204
Photo of Gail D Gerbie, MS, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gail D Gerbie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Escondido, CA 92026
My goal, as a therapist, is to help clients navigate life's challenges and transitions. The tapestries of interpersonal relationships, grief, trauma, and recovery from addictions are woven with accepting ourselves, others, and change.
My goal, as a therapist, is to help clients navigate life's challenges and transitions. The tapestries of interpersonal relationships, grief, trauma, and recovery from addictions are woven with accepting ourselves, others, and change.
(760) 666-4359 View (760) 666-4359
Photo of Marjorie Faga, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marjorie Faga
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027
My clients come to me with a wide range of issues including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, grief and loss, low self-esteem, and relationship issues.
My name is Marjorie Fagan, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing for the past thirteen years. I feel so privileged to do what I do! I live in sunny southern California with my partner of many years and my three cats, three dogs, and my tortoise, who is currently hibernating (don't we all wish we could do that at times)? I have worked in a variety of clinical settings, with many ethnic populations, and age groups. I will help you work through issues that are holding you back from being your authentic self. Those issues that are too big or overwhelming to solve on your own.
My clients come to me with a wide range of issues including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, grief and loss, low self-esteem, and relationship issues.
My name is Marjorie Fagan, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing for the past thirteen years. I feel so privileged to do what I do! I live in sunny southern California with my partner of many years and my three cats, three dogs, and my tortoise, who is currently hibernating (don't we all wish we could do that at times)? I have worked in a variety of clinical settings, with many ethnic populations, and age groups. I will help you work through issues that are holding you back from being your authentic self. Those issues that are too big or overwhelming to solve on your own.
(747) 302-3771 View (747) 302-3771
Photo of Kelly M. Kaitson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly M. Kaitson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Escondido, CA 92026
Healing from anxiety and grief that hold you back is possible.
Now Accepting New Clients! Do you feel you are not the best version of yourself? Are you feeling confused, scared, disconnected and lost? I am here to help. If you are being triggered by emotions and behaviors and it's making other problems in your life worse, I hope you will consider contacting me today. Supporting you at this time is my sincere desire and I'm here to tell you that there can be change, success and growth to bring forward your best version. I will equip you with tools and support so you not only get by but actually thrive. I look forward to speaking with you!
Healing from anxiety and grief that hold you back is possible.
Now Accepting New Clients! Do you feel you are not the best version of yourself? Are you feeling confused, scared, disconnected and lost? I am here to help. If you are being triggered by emotions and behaviors and it's making other problems in your life worse, I hope you will consider contacting me today. Supporting you at this time is my sincere desire and I'm here to tell you that there can be change, success and growth to bring forward your best version. I will equip you with tools and support so you not only get by but actually thrive. I look forward to speaking with you!
(760) 415-0085 View (760) 415-0085
Photo of Michelle Gentle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Gentle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
Client’s experiencing grief (including divorce, chronic illness, infertility, or death), changes in life circumstances (including pregnancy, postpartum transition, identity/sexuality challenges), or relationship difficulties.
Hi, my name is Michelle Gentle. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and I’m passionate about supporting clients during whatever life challenges arise. I am LGBTQ+ affirming. My approach to therapy is holistic and varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I utilize a trauma-informed, developmental, and attachment-based lens. Common modalities I use include are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Client’s experiencing grief (including divorce, chronic illness, infertility, or death), changes in life circumstances (including pregnancy, postpartum transition, identity/sexuality challenges), or relationship difficulties.
Hi, my name is Michelle Gentle. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and I’m passionate about supporting clients during whatever life challenges arise. I am LGBTQ+ affirming. My approach to therapy is holistic and varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I utilize a trauma-informed, developmental, and attachment-based lens. Common modalities I use include are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
(650) 457-5816 View (650) 457-5816
Photo of Rana Choi-Yamamura, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rana Choi-Yamamura
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027
My areas of focus include those who are transitioning in life (any age 18+), stress, anxiety, and burnout; those who are - and loved ones living with chronic or serious life-threatening illness; caregiver stress; grief/ loss; and women's issues including perinatal and postpartum issues.
My name is Rana Choi Yamamura and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am looking forward to partnering with and supporting you if you are feeling overwhelmed and stressed with life's changes and transitions. I specialize in the areas of stress; anxiety; life transitions; chronic illness; caregiver stress; grief/ loss; and women's issues including perinatal and postpartum. My approach is to meet you where you are and create a compassionate and caring space that is comfortable and non-judgmental. I look forward to accompanying you on this path of change and growth.
My areas of focus include those who are transitioning in life (any age 18+), stress, anxiety, and burnout; those who are - and loved ones living with chronic or serious life-threatening illness; caregiver stress; grief/ loss; and women's issues including perinatal and postpartum issues.
My name is Rana Choi Yamamura and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am looking forward to partnering with and supporting you if you are feeling overwhelmed and stressed with life's changes and transitions. I specialize in the areas of stress; anxiety; life transitions; chronic illness; caregiver stress; grief/ loss; and women's issues including perinatal and postpartum. My approach is to meet you where you are and create a compassionate and caring space that is comfortable and non-judgmental. I look forward to accompanying you on this path of change and growth.
(949) 203-7341 View (949) 203-7341
Photo of Gloria Rojas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gloria Rojas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027
My areas of interest and experience include treating children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, ADHD, grief, acute stress, adjustment, women's issues, generational trauma, and cultural issues.
Hello! My name is Gloria Rojas and I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience in the mental health field. My goal is to provide a safe space to process, heal and rebuild. My services can be provided in English and Spanish and include interventions to identify the problem, find solutions, coping techniques, relaxation/stress management skills, goal setting, task management, insight, and skill building. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Problem-Solving Treatment, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
My areas of interest and experience include treating children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, ADHD, grief, acute stress, adjustment, women's issues, generational trauma, and cultural issues.
Hello! My name is Gloria Rojas and I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience in the mental health field. My goal is to provide a safe space to process, heal and rebuild. My services can be provided in English and Spanish and include interventions to identify the problem, find solutions, coping techniques, relaxation/stress management skills, goal setting, task management, insight, and skill building. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Problem-Solving Treatment, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
(323) 676-7884 View (323) 676-7884
Photo of Rebecca Boon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Boon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Escondido, CA 92026
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in stress management, grief and loss, mood disorders, family caregivers, military families and relationship issues.
I will take an active, non-judgmental, and creative approach in treatment to support you in reaching your goals and sustaining meaningful growth, balance and change. In therapy, I prioritize strengths-based and client-centered approaches with respect for diverse backgrounds while offering humor, psychoeducation, and practical coping strategies to increase healthy behaviors, self-awareness, and self-compassion. I most often draw upon techniques and theories found in mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, art therapy, motivational interviewing, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in stress management, grief and loss, mood disorders, family caregivers, military families and relationship issues.
I will take an active, non-judgmental, and creative approach in treatment to support you in reaching your goals and sustaining meaningful growth, balance and change. In therapy, I prioritize strengths-based and client-centered approaches with respect for diverse backgrounds while offering humor, psychoeducation, and practical coping strategies to increase healthy behaviors, self-awareness, and self-compassion. I most often draw upon techniques and theories found in mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, art therapy, motivational interviewing, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
(619) 558-5439 View (619) 558-5439
Photo of Samantha Cote, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Cote
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
Whether you are experiencing relationship difficulties, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, substance use, anger issues, or anything that life throws at you, I believe we can find the tools to navigate it together.
My name is Samantha Cote and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I focus on a client-centered, trauma-informed, and integrative approach to therapy to help make progress toward feeling better. The foundation of my approach to therapy involves client-centered, solution-focused, trauma-informed, and strength-based. I used an integrated perspective of therapy that includes different tools from a variety of different therapeutic approaches because it's important to recognize that we are all unique. Everyone has different goals, life experiences, situations, relationships, cultural backgrounds, communication styles, etc.
Whether you are experiencing relationship difficulties, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, substance use, anger issues, or anything that life throws at you, I believe we can find the tools to navigate it together.
My name is Samantha Cote and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I focus on a client-centered, trauma-informed, and integrative approach to therapy to help make progress toward feeling better. The foundation of my approach to therapy involves client-centered, solution-focused, trauma-informed, and strength-based. I used an integrated perspective of therapy that includes different tools from a variety of different therapeutic approaches because it's important to recognize that we are all unique. Everyone has different goals, life experiences, situations, relationships, cultural backgrounds, communication styles, etc.
(626) 788-8716 View (626) 788-8716
Photo of Carlos Haber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carlos Haber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
I provide individual, and couple therapy, including treatment for depression, anxiety, and I help patients work through a variety of other issues: grief and mourning, family/relationship conflicts, issues around infidelity, sexuality and coming out, and mood disorders.
With over twenty years of experience in a practice focusing primarily on personal issues and improving relationships. For me, therapy is about providing a safe, non-judgmental space, free from social pressures and prejudices, and labels. I see therapy as a partnership and dialogue between the therapist and the patient, where together we tackle challenges and questions and think and work together to craft answers. I have different approaches according to the patient's necessities. I was trained in psychoanalysis, CBT, trauma focus, EFT, mindfulness, and attachment theory, among other therapeutic interventions.
I provide individual, and couple therapy, including treatment for depression, anxiety, and I help patients work through a variety of other issues: grief and mourning, family/relationship conflicts, issues around infidelity, sexuality and coming out, and mood disorders.
With over twenty years of experience in a practice focusing primarily on personal issues and improving relationships. For me, therapy is about providing a safe, non-judgmental space, free from social pressures and prejudices, and labels. I see therapy as a partnership and dialogue between the therapist and the patient, where together we tackle challenges and questions and think and work together to craft answers. I have different approaches according to the patient's necessities. I was trained in psychoanalysis, CBT, trauma focus, EFT, mindfulness, and attachment theory, among other therapeutic interventions.
(209) 439-8213 View (209) 439-8213
Photo of Brandi Nichols - Hope for Healers, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hope for Healers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92026  (Online Only)
I have successfully coached healthcare workers through burn out by creating space for healing through acknowledgement and release of the stress and trauma stored in their body. Letting go of these negative experiences, strengthens their connection to others and brings clarity to their passion and purpose. I have also led trainings on topics such as emotion regulation, conflict resolution and effective communication. I created and led various support groups and trainings related to grief, chronic pain, imposter syndrome and burnout.
I have successfully coached healthcare workers through burn out by creating space for healing through acknowledgement and release of the stress and trauma stored in their body. Letting go of these negative experiences, strengthens their connection to others and brings clarity to their passion and purpose. I have also led trainings on topics such as emotion regulation, conflict resolution and effective communication. I created and led various support groups and trainings related to grief, chronic pain, imposter syndrome and burnout.
(442) 201-3787 View (442) 201-3787
Photo of Rebecca Kerr McWhorter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Kerr McWhorter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027
Hi there, I'm Rebecca McWhorter, LCSW has experience with all age groups within many multicultural settings. I start with where the patient is should they be suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, and/or grief. My practice focus in on patient care. Patients typically enter therapy due to something that is having a negative impact on their quality of life. I assist them in identifying the root causes or behavior that are preventing them from living their best life. I utilize many different approaches to healing. I prefer to letting the patient vocalize their needs rather than tailor a patient to a plan.
Hi there, I'm Rebecca McWhorter, LCSW has experience with all age groups within many multicultural settings. I start with where the patient is should they be suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, and/or grief. My practice focus in on patient care. Patients typically enter therapy due to something that is having a negative impact on their quality of life. I assist them in identifying the root causes or behavior that are preventing them from living their best life. I utilize many different approaches to healing. I prefer to letting the patient vocalize their needs rather than tailor a patient to a plan.
(442) 218-2807 View (442) 218-2807
Photo of Parinaz G Basiri, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Parinaz G Basiri
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Escondido, CA 92025
You may be struggling with issues related to a life transition, experienced a traumatic event, big changes or dealing with major life challenges, relationship problems, grief, anxiety, feeling down or would simply like to feel even better than you do now. I can help you explore current and past challenges interfering with your goals and relationships in a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate environment.
You may be struggling with issues related to a life transition, experienced a traumatic event, big changes or dealing with major life challenges, relationship problems, grief, anxiety, feeling down or would simply like to feel even better than you do now. I can help you explore current and past challenges interfering with your goals and relationships in a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate environment.
(442) 233-8998 View (442) 233-8998
Photo of Suzanne Grace, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Suzanne Grace
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027
Suzanne Grace, LMFT 144783. My desire is to help you live a full life, to listen openly and without bias, and to understand you outside of your problems; to help you see that you have strengths and resources that will help you get through this difficult time or the challenges you face. My goal is to help you feel hopeful again. As a couple's therapist, my goal is to help the couple heal and/or learn how to move forward in a positive manner. I am passionate about women's issues, including peri- and post-partum, loss, infertility, and grief, and work with military and their families
Suzanne Grace, LMFT 144783. My desire is to help you live a full life, to listen openly and without bias, and to understand you outside of your problems; to help you see that you have strengths and resources that will help you get through this difficult time or the challenges you face. My goal is to help you feel hopeful again. As a couple's therapist, my goal is to help the couple heal and/or learn how to move forward in a positive manner. I am passionate about women's issues, including peri- and post-partum, loss, infertility, and grief, and work with military and their families
(442) 237-4604 View (442) 237-4604
Photo of Jimi McJunkin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jimi McJunkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
These include grief, anxiety, depression, men’s issues, and life transitions.
My practice is a safe haven for those dealing with grief, anxiety, and life transitions. I also have a deep understanding of men’s work, addressing the unique challenges faced by men in today’s society. Whether you’re seeking to heal from past wounds or striving to thrive in your personal life, I am here to support your journey. I believe that everyone has the innate capacity to heal and grow. My role is to facilitate this process, offering a supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment.
These include grief, anxiety, depression, men’s issues, and life transitions.
My practice is a safe haven for those dealing with grief, anxiety, and life transitions. I also have a deep understanding of men’s work, addressing the unique challenges faced by men in today’s society. Whether you’re seeking to heal from past wounds or striving to thrive in your personal life, I am here to support your journey. I believe that everyone has the innate capacity to heal and grow. My role is to facilitate this process, offering a supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment.
(760) 919-4487 View (760) 919-4487
Photo of Stephan Paul Ouellette, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephan Paul Ouellette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027
Hello, my name is Stephan Paul Ouellette. I have been a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California since 2000. I approach therapy from a client-centered, collaborative, empathic, and strengths-based perspective. I have 25-plus years of experience working with folks living with HIV/AIDS and from the LGBTQ-plus communities. My primary focus is helping clients to proactively respond to such conditions as depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, substance use and abuse concerns, and adjustment to chronic and sometimes life-threatening health conditions.
Hello, my name is Stephan Paul Ouellette. I have been a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California since 2000. I approach therapy from a client-centered, collaborative, empathic, and strengths-based perspective. I have 25-plus years of experience working with folks living with HIV/AIDS and from the LGBTQ-plus communities. My primary focus is helping clients to proactively respond to such conditions as depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, substance use and abuse concerns, and adjustment to chronic and sometimes life-threatening health conditions.
(442) 245-3645 View (442) 245-3645
Photo of Tatiana Moore, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tatiana Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with a wide range of issues and I truly believe in the healing power of therapy. My areas of specialty include: couples therapy, first responders/law enforcement professionals, Native American/Alaska Natives, LGBTQ+, high-conflict couples, trauma, depression, grief and loss, child and teen therapy and many other life transition problems. I approach each client with warmth and understanding and I am proactive in helping to create change. I love my work and am passionate about investing in people and relationships. I look forward to the opportunity to be of service to you.
I have experience working with a wide range of issues and I truly believe in the healing power of therapy. My areas of specialty include: couples therapy, first responders/law enforcement professionals, Native American/Alaska Natives, LGBTQ+, high-conflict couples, trauma, depression, grief and loss, child and teen therapy and many other life transition problems. I approach each client with warmth and understanding and I am proactive in helping to create change. I love my work and am passionate about investing in people and relationships. I look forward to the opportunity to be of service to you.
(760) 517-1030 View (760) 517-1030
Photo of Gary Bushweiler, LCP, Psychologist
Gary Bushweiler
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
Hello! My name is Gary L Bushweiler, Ph.D. I am a licensed clinical psychologist (California license PSY 5340). I provide individual, group, and couples psychotherapy to adults and teens (14 and up). I utilize evidence-based psychotherapy for the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, and challenging life transitions such as aging, death of a partner or spouse, and bereavement. My areas of specialization include helping individuals and couples develop new skills and approaches to bring about change in their lives.
Hello! My name is Gary L Bushweiler, Ph.D. I am a licensed clinical psychologist (California license PSY 5340). I provide individual, group, and couples psychotherapy to adults and teens (14 and up). I utilize evidence-based psychotherapy for the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, and challenging life transitions such as aging, death of a partner or spouse, and bereavement. My areas of specialization include helping individuals and couples develop new skills and approaches to bring about change in their lives.
(760) 990-1725 View (760) 990-1725
Photo of Ann Merkel, LMFT, CADC II, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ann Merkel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADC II
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025  (Online Only)
I am well versed in addressing a wide array of the types of problems that bring people to seek therapy, including but not limited to addictions, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief, pain management, life transitions and trauma.
I enjoy helping individuals and families struggling with personal issues varying from mental health and addiction to relationship or family problems, stress, bereavement, emotional pain, abuse and more. My work is dedicated to helping others improve their quality of life by guiding them on the road to self-awareness, acceptance, and recovery. I like to focus on resolving specific issues, regaining confidence, and decreasing suffering thus leading to a healthy, happy, and more productive and enjoyable life.
I am well versed in addressing a wide array of the types of problems that bring people to seek therapy, including but not limited to addictions, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief, pain management, life transitions and trauma.
I enjoy helping individuals and families struggling with personal issues varying from mental health and addiction to relationship or family problems, stress, bereavement, emotional pain, abuse and more. My work is dedicated to helping others improve their quality of life by guiding them on the road to self-awareness, acceptance, and recovery. I like to focus on resolving specific issues, regaining confidence, and decreasing suffering thus leading to a healthy, happy, and more productive and enjoyable life.
(442) 302-3183 View (442) 302-3183
Photo of Kari Hidalgo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kari Hidalgo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
My name is Kari Hidalgo, and I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California and Colorado. I have provided direct counseling services for over ten years and telemental health services for over five years. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families as they navigate different seasons of life. I have helped clients manage trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, stress, pre and postpartum depression, difficult relationships, and parenting challenges while encouraging, supporting, holding hope, exploring self-care, and helping them identify healthy boundaries.
My name is Kari Hidalgo, and I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California and Colorado. I have provided direct counseling services for over ten years and telemental health services for over five years. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families as they navigate different seasons of life. I have helped clients manage trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, stress, pre and postpartum depression, difficult relationships, and parenting challenges while encouraging, supporting, holding hope, exploring self-care, and helping them identify healthy boundaries.
(760) 938-9214 View (760) 938-9214
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.