Grief Therapists in Glassell Park, CA

Photo of Sarah Warren, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Warren
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Glassell Park, CA 90065
I have a particular focus on relational issues, grief, and residual trauma.
The concept of "self-improvement" can be empowering, but also intimidating. In a problem-saturated world, it can be easy to define ourselves as our problems, instead of looking at them as operating forces that can then be explored.   
I have a particular focus on relational issues, grief, and residual trauma.
The concept of "self-improvement" can be empowering, but also intimidating. In a problem-saturated world, it can be easy to define ourselves as our problems, instead of looking at them as operating forces that can then be explored.   
(818) 293-4859 View (818) 293-4859
Photo of Megan Elizabeth Irwin, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Elizabeth Irwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Glassell Park, CA 90065  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating trauma and grief and I particularly love working with suicide loss survivors, DV/SA survivors, adults who were neglected/rejected as children.
You have the ability to live a self determined life, free from the pain of your past. My approach to therapy is relationship driven, and rooted in helping you understand the way your attachment style and the different parts of your personality influence your relationships and behavior. We will work to understand how your past influences your present, and support new ways for you to respond to old triggers in a more self empowered way. I find I am especially good at supporting people who feel both "too much" and "not enough" at the same time. If that sounds like you, let's talk!
I specialize in treating trauma and grief and I particularly love working with suicide loss survivors, DV/SA survivors, adults who were neglected/rejected as children.
You have the ability to live a self determined life, free from the pain of your past. My approach to therapy is relationship driven, and rooted in helping you understand the way your attachment style and the different parts of your personality influence your relationships and behavior. We will work to understand how your past influences your present, and support new ways for you to respond to old triggers in a more self empowered way. I find I am especially good at supporting people who feel both "too much" and "not enough" at the same time. If that sounds like you, let's talk!
(971) 231-2946 View (971) 231-2946
Photo of AJ Rich, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
AJ Rich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Glassell Park, CA 90065
I have experience working with adults, couples, & teens that struggle with anxiety, depression, communication, trauma, loss, chronic illness, and perhaps have reached an impasse with moving forward within a career, relationship, or other life events.
I primarily work with people going through big life transitions or decisions that can have lasting impacts on life. Many difficulties stem from relationships, whether that be with others or the one we have with ourselves. My work with individuals, couples, and families is direct yet warm, empathetic, and understanding as we navigate together how to process the blocks that can obstruct your view and ability to move forward. My clients can expect to explore life events from the past as patterns of behavior emerge in the here-and-now. As this self-awareness begins to develop, clients can often lead more joyful and connected lives.
I have experience working with adults, couples, & teens that struggle with anxiety, depression, communication, trauma, loss, chronic illness, and perhaps have reached an impasse with moving forward within a career, relationship, or other life events.
I primarily work with people going through big life transitions or decisions that can have lasting impacts on life. Many difficulties stem from relationships, whether that be with others or the one we have with ourselves. My work with individuals, couples, and families is direct yet warm, empathetic, and understanding as we navigate together how to process the blocks that can obstruct your view and ability to move forward. My clients can expect to explore life events from the past as patterns of behavior emerge in the here-and-now. As this self-awareness begins to develop, clients can often lead more joyful and connected lives.
(747) 529-9125 View (747) 529-9125
Photo of Violet Sarosi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Violet Sarosi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glassell Park, CA 90065
Welcome! Maybe you've found yourself here because you need help untangling something. Maybe you're carrying longstanding burdens; maybe those burdens aren't even yours to hold. If you are seeking holistic, intersectional, emotion focused, justice-oriented therapy, I'm here to assist you! I provide trauma and self-exploration therapy to adults, couples, and teenagers in a dynamic, compassionate container. I aim to instill self-understanding in my clients, and empower them to grow in places they've historically had to shrink.
Welcome! Maybe you've found yourself here because you need help untangling something. Maybe you're carrying longstanding burdens; maybe those burdens aren't even yours to hold. If you are seeking holistic, intersectional, emotion focused, justice-oriented therapy, I'm here to assist you! I provide trauma and self-exploration therapy to adults, couples, and teenagers in a dynamic, compassionate container. I aim to instill self-understanding in my clients, and empower them to grow in places they've historically had to shrink.
(213) 863-1313 View (213) 863-1313
Photo of Jared Anderson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jared Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Glassell Park, CA 90065  (Online Only)
I help creatives, public people, academics, designers, corporate, and tech professionals heal from trauma. You may excel in some areas yet suffer anxiety, depression (stuck/lost), and relationship pain. A past with abuse, neglect, emotional disconnect can result in both thriving and overactive survival instincts. I provide a warm judgment-free space, strict confidentiality, modern research-based techniques, and 25 years of mental health experience. I offer EMDR, IFS (internal family systems/parts work), Somatic Experiencing, & psychedelic ketamine work. I also specialize with ASD/neurodivergent (autism), DID/dissociation, & LGBTQ+.
I help creatives, public people, academics, designers, corporate, and tech professionals heal from trauma. You may excel in some areas yet suffer anxiety, depression (stuck/lost), and relationship pain. A past with abuse, neglect, emotional disconnect can result in both thriving and overactive survival instincts. I provide a warm judgment-free space, strict confidentiality, modern research-based techniques, and 25 years of mental health experience. I offer EMDR, IFS (internal family systems/parts work), Somatic Experiencing, & psychedelic ketamine work. I also specialize with ASD/neurodivergent (autism), DID/dissociation, & LGBTQ+.
(213) 372-0180 View (213) 372-0180
Photo of Cynthia A. Henrie, LMFT, BCETS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia A. Henrie
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BCETS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glassell Park, CA 90065
Do you feel like the weight of past experiences, secrets, or questions about your identity are holding you back from living a fulfilling life? Are you struggling with sexual trauma, childhood abuse, or other forms of trauma that have left you feeling overwhelmed & powerless? I'm here to help. As a feminist therapist & board-certified expert in treating trauma & PTSD, I have extensive experience in helping people just like you regain control of their lives. Whether you're dealing w/ sexual, gender, cultural identity issues, or any form of abuse, I offer a safe and empowering space where you can work through your struggles & heal.
Do you feel like the weight of past experiences, secrets, or questions about your identity are holding you back from living a fulfilling life? Are you struggling with sexual trauma, childhood abuse, or other forms of trauma that have left you feeling overwhelmed & powerless? I'm here to help. As a feminist therapist & board-certified expert in treating trauma & PTSD, I have extensive experience in helping people just like you regain control of their lives. Whether you're dealing w/ sexual, gender, cultural identity issues, or any form of abuse, I offer a safe and empowering space where you can work through your struggles & heal.
(323) 918-3874 View (323) 918-3874
Photo of Jessica Erker, LMFT, MS, MFA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Erker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, MFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glassell Park, CA 90065  (Online Only)
I am a non-binary, queer, and body/sex-positive licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in complex trauma, anxiety, depression, and experiences relating to identity, self-confidence, creativity, neurodivergence, and spirituality. I am committed to social and transformative justice and practice to serve and support underprivileged folks, including Black, Indigenous, people of color, and LGBTQIA persons.
I am a non-binary, queer, and body/sex-positive licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in complex trauma, anxiety, depression, and experiences relating to identity, self-confidence, creativity, neurodivergence, and spirituality. I am committed to social and transformative justice and practice to serve and support underprivileged folks, including Black, Indigenous, people of color, and LGBTQIA persons.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kristi Dechairo Ahern, LPCC, LMHC, CGCS, Counselor
Kristi Dechairo Ahern
Counselor, LPCC, LMHC, CGCS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90039
Are there moments when you feel overwhelmed, tired of feeling stressed, anxious, and discouraged from life events that are out of your control? Maybe you have experienced a significant loss like a relationship ending, a job loss, a move, loss of financial security, or the death of a loved one? All life changes both positive and negative can throw you into grief, a state of disequilibrium, by taking away what was once familiar and leaving you drowning in uncertainty. Loss that is unresolved may leave you feeling stuck, unable to move forward in the ways you'd hoped.
Are there moments when you feel overwhelmed, tired of feeling stressed, anxious, and discouraged from life events that are out of your control? Maybe you have experienced a significant loss like a relationship ending, a job loss, a move, loss of financial security, or the death of a loved one? All life changes both positive and negative can throw you into grief, a state of disequilibrium, by taking away what was once familiar and leaving you drowning in uncertainty. Loss that is unresolved may leave you feeling stuck, unable to move forward in the ways you'd hoped.
(323) 716-1347 View (323) 716-1347
Photo of Eric Alcala At Cauley Associates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eric Alcala At Cauley Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Lake, CA 90026  (Online Only)
In my practice, I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma and the complexities of grief and loss.
Coping with depression and anxiety is challenging. Every day you strive to navigate stressors more effectively. It is realistic to gain insight into and reframe your thought processes. By recognizing your thought patterns, you will appreciate your unique strengths and values, empowering you to progress towards a meaningful direction in your personal and professional endeavors.
In my practice, I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma and the complexities of grief and loss.
Coping with depression and anxiety is challenging. Every day you strive to navigate stressors more effectively. It is realistic to gain insight into and reframe your thought processes. By recognizing your thought patterns, you will appreciate your unique strengths and values, empowering you to progress towards a meaningful direction in your personal and professional endeavors.
(323) 677-4885 View (323) 677-4885
Photo of Alanah Roy - Anxiety Grief And Trauma Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alanah Roy - Anxiety Grief And Trauma Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90039
Most clients come to me when they’ve reached a crisis or inflection point in their lives. Maybe you have recently lost a loved one, become a parent, or received a life-changing diagnosis. The rug has been pulled out & you can't imagine how to move forward in this new reality. Or maybe your anxiety or trauma is holding you back from the life you want to live or the person you want to be. Parents may realize that the fears or behaviors their children are struggling with are beyond growing pains, but feel at a loss to help them. Whatever your reason, I am glad you found your way here.
Most clients come to me when they’ve reached a crisis or inflection point in their lives. Maybe you have recently lost a loved one, become a parent, or received a life-changing diagnosis. The rug has been pulled out & you can't imagine how to move forward in this new reality. Or maybe your anxiety or trauma is holding you back from the life you want to live or the person you want to be. Parents may realize that the fears or behaviors their children are struggling with are beyond growing pains, but feel at a loss to help them. Whatever your reason, I am glad you found your way here.
(424) 465-1465 View (424) 465-1465
Photo of Elisa Rosenblatt Pomerantz, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elisa Rosenblatt Pomerantz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91210
Whether you suffer from relationship conflicts, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, unresolved trauma, or lack of joy, therapy can be helpful and life transforming.
Hello, welcome to my page. If you are emotionally suffering and want to feel better about yourself and the possibilities ahead, I would like the opportunity to talk with you. I am dedicated and passionate about working collaboratively with individuals who desire personal growth and increased self awareness. Choosing to work on oneself in therapy is both a life affirming and courageous decision and I consider it a deep privilege to be a part of that journey. By participating in a supportive therapeutic process , you can begin to understand and honor your life experiences with a new perspective and an increased sense of vitality.
Whether you suffer from relationship conflicts, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, unresolved trauma, or lack of joy, therapy can be helpful and life transforming.
Hello, welcome to my page. If you are emotionally suffering and want to feel better about yourself and the possibilities ahead, I would like the opportunity to talk with you. I am dedicated and passionate about working collaboratively with individuals who desire personal growth and increased self awareness. Choosing to work on oneself in therapy is both a life affirming and courageous decision and I consider it a deep privilege to be a part of that journey. By participating in a supportive therapeutic process , you can begin to understand and honor your life experiences with a new perspective and an increased sense of vitality.
(818) 237-9589 View (818) 237-9589
Photo of Beth Staehling, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Beth Staehling
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90065
Do you find yourself experiencing doubt, sadness, worry, grief, confusion and hopelessness? It could be that your relationship is causing confusion and you are losing your sense of stability in the world or maybe you are struggling to make career or family decisions. Depression or anxiety may be getting in your way of finding the happiness/success you know you are capable of having. These concerns take courage to face and therapy provides a safe place to discuss alternative ways of looking at your concerns. I can help you gain some insight into your struggles while providing emotional support.
Do you find yourself experiencing doubt, sadness, worry, grief, confusion and hopelessness? It could be that your relationship is causing confusion and you are losing your sense of stability in the world or maybe you are struggling to make career or family decisions. Depression or anxiety may be getting in your way of finding the happiness/success you know you are capable of having. These concerns take courage to face and therapy provides a safe place to discuss alternative ways of looking at your concerns. I can help you gain some insight into your struggles while providing emotional support.
(626) 377-4654 View (626) 377-4654
Photo of Naghmeh Jirvand, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Naghmeh Jirvand
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
I believe in providing a honest and collaborative therapeutic environment. Through this forum, an individual can search out solutions for the obstacles they encounter and gain a more authentic perception of self. I am experienced in treating adults, couples, children, and families. Some of therapeutic areas of expertise include dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, substance abuse, adjustment issues, trauma, and life stressors to name a few. As a supportive, solution-focused therapist, I provide guidance to help you feel comfortable in reaching out and seeking alternatives.
I believe in providing a honest and collaborative therapeutic environment. Through this forum, an individual can search out solutions for the obstacles they encounter and gain a more authentic perception of self. I am experienced in treating adults, couples, children, and families. Some of therapeutic areas of expertise include dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, substance abuse, adjustment issues, trauma, and life stressors to name a few. As a supportive, solution-focused therapist, I provide guidance to help you feel comfortable in reaching out and seeking alternatives.
(510) 681-2699 View (510) 681-2699
Photo of Jason Karasev, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Karasev
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90039
I have experience working with vast cultures, age-groups, and family histories, with specialized trainings in trauma, grief, relationship concerns, attachment, play therapy, and parenting.
Sometimes, our relationship to others, and ourselves, has lost its footing. We may even find ourselves feeling disconnected and overwhelmed by difficult emotions. Though we often push through life’s challenges alone, the truth is, we don’t have to. In our time together, I hope to collaborate with you in identifying the patterns, thoughts, and feelings that may be blocking you from a happy relationship to yourself and others, even if it feels beyond words at this time. I believe an environment of warmth, curiosity, and creativity can help us heal in ways we may have never thought possible.
I have experience working with vast cultures, age-groups, and family histories, with specialized trainings in trauma, grief, relationship concerns, attachment, play therapy, and parenting.
Sometimes, our relationship to others, and ourselves, has lost its footing. We may even find ourselves feeling disconnected and overwhelmed by difficult emotions. Though we often push through life’s challenges alone, the truth is, we don’t have to. In our time together, I hope to collaborate with you in identifying the patterns, thoughts, and feelings that may be blocking you from a happy relationship to yourself and others, even if it feels beyond words at this time. I believe an environment of warmth, curiosity, and creativity can help us heal in ways we may have never thought possible.
(312) 402-4906 View (312) 402-4906
Photo of Erica Dean, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erica Dean
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Playa Vista, CA 90094
I draw from different modalities I have been trained in, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), to support clients with trauma, transitions, anxiety, attachment, depression, perinatal mood disorders, and grief.
Transitioning through life can feel challenging, especially when we're not sure of our ability to handle changes with confidence. Difficulty navigating changes can negatively impact our relationship with ourselves and others. I work with adolescent, young adult, and adult clients who are struggling with ineffective patterns that impede their quality of life. In therapy, I support clients in discovering effective strategies to manage distressing emotions, cope with current stressors, gain insights, and build resilience. We work together to understand your history and the patterns you would like to shift.
I draw from different modalities I have been trained in, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), to support clients with trauma, transitions, anxiety, attachment, depression, perinatal mood disorders, and grief.
Transitioning through life can feel challenging, especially when we're not sure of our ability to handle changes with confidence. Difficulty navigating changes can negatively impact our relationship with ourselves and others. I work with adolescent, young adult, and adult clients who are struggling with ineffective patterns that impede their quality of life. In therapy, I support clients in discovering effective strategies to manage distressing emotions, cope with current stressors, gain insights, and build resilience. We work together to understand your history and the patterns you would like to shift.
(310) 893-0003 View (310) 893-0003
Photo of Beth Quill, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Quill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041  (Online Only)
I am here to help you recover from the trauma, grief, and pain that is holding you back.
Welcome to my therapy practice! We can connect about your needs, your hopes, and the challenges that are getting in the way. Are you struggling with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, relationship stress, or life transitions? Do you want to learn to live the best life you can? Do you want to learn to manage difficult thoughts and feelings ? Are you ready to start a journey of self-discovery? My role is as a guide, a support, and an advocate along the way. I offer teletherapy to residents of both California and New Mexico.
I am here to help you recover from the trauma, grief, and pain that is holding you back.
Welcome to my therapy practice! We can connect about your needs, your hopes, and the challenges that are getting in the way. Are you struggling with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, relationship stress, or life transitions? Do you want to learn to live the best life you can? Do you want to learn to manage difficult thoughts and feelings ? Are you ready to start a journey of self-discovery? My role is as a guide, a support, and an advocate along the way. I offer teletherapy to residents of both California and New Mexico.
(505) 391-5503 View (505) 391-5503
Photo of Rebecca Yeretzian-Santana, MA, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Yeretzian-Santana
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Silver Lake, CA 90026  (Online Only)
Ready to discover the beauty in not knowing all the answers? Navigating the challenges of life and death can be inevitable and isolating, often accompanied by a whirlwind of feelings that may seem impossible to understand. I provide a safe and supportive space for finding moments of peace amidst the turbulence of the unique emotional complexities you're facing. Together, we will find the right approach that will lead you to meaning, empowerment, and resilience in the face of your profound human experience.
Ready to discover the beauty in not knowing all the answers? Navigating the challenges of life and death can be inevitable and isolating, often accompanied by a whirlwind of feelings that may seem impossible to understand. I provide a safe and supportive space for finding moments of peace amidst the turbulence of the unique emotional complexities you're facing. Together, we will find the right approach that will lead you to meaning, empowerment, and resilience in the face of your profound human experience.
(747) 281-4027 View (747) 281-4027
Photo of Michelle Seely, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Seely
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Waitlist for new clients
When we suffer from feelings related to grief or loss, from unsatisfying relationships in the past or present, or from wishing to have more joy in our lives--therapy can be a powerful step toward healing and relief. Having a safe place and a compassionate person with whom to share our grief, our critical or frightening thoughts, and our longings can help enormously. I work in a relational, supportive, and collaborative way to help people move from anxiety, trauma, depression and problems with relationships to a place of increased trust, safety, and satisfaction.
When we suffer from feelings related to grief or loss, from unsatisfying relationships in the past or present, or from wishing to have more joy in our lives--therapy can be a powerful step toward healing and relief. Having a safe place and a compassionate person with whom to share our grief, our critical or frightening thoughts, and our longings can help enormously. I work in a relational, supportive, and collaborative way to help people move from anxiety, trauma, depression and problems with relationships to a place of increased trust, safety, and satisfaction.
(818) 863-6560 View (818) 863-6560
Photo of Meredith Vender, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Vender
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90039  (Online Only)
I am passionate about supporting clients through life's many challenges such as receiving a new medical diagnosis, coping with a chronic illness, shifting to a caregiver role or grieving the death of a loved one. My practice offers a safe and affirming therapeutic space to learn and grow. I tailor treatment using a variety of techniques and view our time together as a shared endeavor to help you achieve your goals. I am skilled in navigating the complex medical system and can help foster collaboration and communication with your medical treatment team. As a Certified Case Manager I can also assist with healthcare-related documents.
I am passionate about supporting clients through life's many challenges such as receiving a new medical diagnosis, coping with a chronic illness, shifting to a caregiver role or grieving the death of a loved one. My practice offers a safe and affirming therapeutic space to learn and grow. I tailor treatment using a variety of techniques and view our time together as a shared endeavor to help you achieve your goals. I am skilled in navigating the complex medical system and can help foster collaboration and communication with your medical treatment team. As a Certified Case Manager I can also assist with healthcare-related documents.
(310) 455-8405 View (310) 455-8405
Photo of Robin Roemer, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Robin Roemer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90039
My areas of focus include identity, relationship issues, grief and loss (I co-run a weekly grief group), self-esteem, sexual trauma, religious trauma, anxiety, and social anxiety.
We all desire belonging and connection, but relationships can be hard! Many of us grow up without role models for the type of intimacy we desire. Whether working individually or with relationships, I hope to work as a guide and collaborator, assisting you in building stronger connections with yourself and those around you. Many of us move through life feeling stuck in roles we’ve been assigned and in stories that we’ve long outgrown. Our work in therapy is to shift your perspective, allowing for a much more nuanced, self-compassionate and true view of who you are and who you’d like to be.
My areas of focus include identity, relationship issues, grief and loss (I co-run a weekly grief group), self-esteem, sexual trauma, religious trauma, anxiety, and social anxiety.
We all desire belonging and connection, but relationships can be hard! Many of us grow up without role models for the type of intimacy we desire. Whether working individually or with relationships, I hope to work as a guide and collaborator, assisting you in building stronger connections with yourself and those around you. Many of us move through life feeling stuck in roles we’ve been assigned and in stories that we’ve long outgrown. Our work in therapy is to shift your perspective, allowing for a much more nuanced, self-compassionate and true view of who you are and who you’d like to be.
(818) 390-9991 View (818) 390-9991
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.