Photo of Sarah Burkle, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Burkle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91387
I work with people from all walks of life with varied experiences and also specialize in trauma, pregnancy and postpartum, death and dying, mindfulness, psychedelic-assisted therapy and integration, and eating disorders.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (88866) and certified in MDMA-assisted therapy, integrative somatic trauma therapy, Ketamine-assisted therapy, emotional freedom technique, and Reiki (master level). I have also trained extensively in the areas of somatic-based approaches, trauma-informed care, ancient shamanic and philosophical traditions, and energy healing practices. I hope to support people in accessing their deepest levels of self and a richer connection with the world by identifying and healing the core of symptomology.
I work with people from all walks of life with varied experiences and also specialize in trauma, pregnancy and postpartum, death and dying, mindfulness, psychedelic-assisted therapy and integration, and eating disorders.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (88866) and certified in MDMA-assisted therapy, integrative somatic trauma therapy, Ketamine-assisted therapy, emotional freedom technique, and Reiki (master level). I have also trained extensively in the areas of somatic-based approaches, trauma-informed care, ancient shamanic and philosophical traditions, and energy healing practices. I hope to support people in accessing their deepest levels of self and a richer connection with the world by identifying and healing the core of symptomology.
(657) 530-6312 View (657) 530-6312
Photo of William Middleton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William Middleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91350
Hi, my name is Bill Middleton, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in California and Illinois, I am also an ordained Christian minister. I am currently based in Carlsbad, California via tele-heath and have spent the last 30 years counseling Marines, sailors, and military families around the world. I work with all ages dealing with stress, grief, family communication, and faith issues. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and other modes to assist in life's challenges. I possess decades of experience working with young adults, married couples, and individuals working in high-stress environments.
Hi, my name is Bill Middleton, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in California and Illinois, I am also an ordained Christian minister. I am currently based in Carlsbad, California via tele-heath and have spent the last 30 years counseling Marines, sailors, and military families around the world. I work with all ages dealing with stress, grief, family communication, and faith issues. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and other modes to assist in life's challenges. I possess decades of experience working with young adults, married couples, and individuals working in high-stress environments.
(209) 340-0732 View (209) 340-0732
Photo of Michelle Soto, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Soto
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91351
Whatever you’re going through, I am here to support your journey. I am experienced and qualified to provide psychotherapy to individuals for issues varying from: depression, anxiety, grief/ loss, trauma, low self-esteem, suicide ideation, to life stressors and more. You deserve to heal, grow, and live the life you’re capable of.
Whatever you’re going through, I am here to support your journey. I am experienced and qualified to provide psychotherapy to individuals for issues varying from: depression, anxiety, grief/ loss, trauma, low self-esteem, suicide ideation, to life stressors and more. You deserve to heal, grow, and live the life you’re capable of.
(909) 497-1620 View (909) 497-1620
Photo of Kristen Crooymans, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristen Crooymans
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Are you looking for a qualified therapist? Are you experiencing difficulties and looking for support? Help is on the way! I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working in Santa Clarita. I provide support and guidance to those suffering from a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, bipolar, addiction, and postpartum disorders. I provide virtual or in-person services.
Are you looking for a qualified therapist? Are you experiencing difficulties and looking for support? Help is on the way! I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working in Santa Clarita. I provide support and guidance to those suffering from a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, bipolar, addiction, and postpartum disorders. I provide virtual or in-person services.
(661) 990-9541 View (661) 990-9541
Photo of Natalie D'Annibale - Natalie D'Annibale, PsyD LMFT, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalie D'Annibale, PsyD LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91354
Sessions include addiction and sobriety, dual-diagnosis, sex, love, and intimacy, relationships and marital, multicultural, LGBTQIA+, empowerment in life transitions, and bereavement, grief, and loss.
It takes trust and courage to explore our emotional well-being, to resolve maladaptive behaviors, addictions, and to work on personal growth. My areas of expertise are in Humanistic, Existential, Family Systems, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapies. I encourage personal responsibility, self-actualization, and self-awareness utilizing strength-based advocacy with empathy and authenticity. If you are ready to improve your personal experiences and interpersonal relationships, reach out and we will get started on your next and best chapter.
Sessions include addiction and sobriety, dual-diagnosis, sex, love, and intimacy, relationships and marital, multicultural, LGBTQIA+, empowerment in life transitions, and bereavement, grief, and loss.
It takes trust and courage to explore our emotional well-being, to resolve maladaptive behaviors, addictions, and to work on personal growth. My areas of expertise are in Humanistic, Existential, Family Systems, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapies. I encourage personal responsibility, self-actualization, and self-awareness utilizing strength-based advocacy with empathy and authenticity. If you are ready to improve your personal experiences and interpersonal relationships, reach out and we will get started on your next and best chapter.
(760) 621-7656 View (760) 621-7656
Photo of Alix Ektefaie, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alix Ektefaie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91354  (Online Only)
I support my clients in exploring issues with unresolved emotions, anxiety, depression, family dynamics, relationships, self-esteem/self-empowerment, grief and loss, coping mechanisms, and communication.
You took the first step! Whether that is towards gaining a better understanding of yourself, strengthening your relationships, working on communication skills or discovering ways to cope with overwhelming emotions, you have taken the first step by searching for a therapist. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (129571) whose various work experiences have led me to understand the unique and vital work of fostering empowerment and growth of the whole self through support of the individual and their emotional, mental, and physical well-being.
I support my clients in exploring issues with unresolved emotions, anxiety, depression, family dynamics, relationships, self-esteem/self-empowerment, grief and loss, coping mechanisms, and communication.
You took the first step! Whether that is towards gaining a better understanding of yourself, strengthening your relationships, working on communication skills or discovering ways to cope with overwhelming emotions, you have taken the first step by searching for a therapist. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (129571) whose various work experiences have led me to understand the unique and vital work of fostering empowerment and growth of the whole self through support of the individual and their emotional, mental, and physical well-being.
(707) 366-6929 View (707) 366-6929
Photo of Ginette Rhodes, LMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ginette Rhodes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Too often, we feel we are surviving rather than thriving. Do you feel stuck in grief or loss, or that your anxiety is running the show? Are your relationships painful or not satisfying?Also-Parenting is hard! Maybe you're a new parent and it isn't what you expected, or even hoped for. Nobody tells you about the postpartum experience -that internal voice in your head that is constantly critiquing the new role of motherhood you're taking on, mourning the version of yourself you once were. Not to mention the pain that comes with a birth plan gone wrong. If you're mothering without your own mother, that also comes with real challenges.
Too often, we feel we are surviving rather than thriving. Do you feel stuck in grief or loss, or that your anxiety is running the show? Are your relationships painful or not satisfying?Also-Parenting is hard! Maybe you're a new parent and it isn't what you expected, or even hoped for. Nobody tells you about the postpartum experience -that internal voice in your head that is constantly critiquing the new role of motherhood you're taking on, mourning the version of yourself you once were. Not to mention the pain that comes with a birth plan gone wrong. If you're mothering without your own mother, that also comes with real challenges.
(661) 762-5925 View (661) 762-5925
Barbara Ferrari
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
I have conducted various group sessions discussing anger management, empowerment, and parenting and regularly counsel people from all walks of life including those with a history of addiction, abuse and trauma, grief and loss, marital trouble, and post traumatic stress disorder.
Barbara Ferrari, LMFT is a Los Angeles-based licensed marriage and family therapist with over thirty years of experience treating mental health issues and working with the dual diagnosed population. My professional services, which operate in a philosophy of hope, optimism, and belief in the benefits of patient and professional counseling, center on creating personalized strategies that encourage growth and healing in the individual, family unit, and community as a whole.
I have conducted various group sessions discussing anger management, empowerment, and parenting and regularly counsel people from all walks of life including those with a history of addiction, abuse and trauma, grief and loss, marital trouble, and post traumatic stress disorder.
Barbara Ferrari, LMFT is a Los Angeles-based licensed marriage and family therapist with over thirty years of experience treating mental health issues and working with the dual diagnosed population. My professional services, which operate in a philosophy of hope, optimism, and belief in the benefits of patient and professional counseling, center on creating personalized strategies that encourage growth and healing in the individual, family unit, and community as a whole.
(661) 373-6923 View (661) 373-6923
Photo of Armine Asatryan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Armine Asatryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91354  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also treat a number of issues including (but not limited to) Mood disorders, loss & grief, depression, OCD, PTSD, panic, boundaries, & trauma/abuse.
Specializing in Anxiety. Are you feeling anxious and overwhelmed? Maybe you are feeling sad, stressed, or stuck. Are you having issues in your relationships? Do you wish to break cycles of behaviors and situations? I am here for you. My approach is integrative and specific to each client. I strive to help guide clients towards self-awareness, insight, and better relationships with themselves and others. I balance listening with practical and structured interventions to help clients both inside and outside of session.
I also treat a number of issues including (but not limited to) Mood disorders, loss & grief, depression, OCD, PTSD, panic, boundaries, & trauma/abuse.
Specializing in Anxiety. Are you feeling anxious and overwhelmed? Maybe you are feeling sad, stressed, or stuck. Are you having issues in your relationships? Do you wish to break cycles of behaviors and situations? I am here for you. My approach is integrative and specific to each client. I strive to help guide clients towards self-awareness, insight, and better relationships with themselves and others. I balance listening with practical and structured interventions to help clients both inside and outside of session.
(818) 697-1227 View (818) 697-1227
Photo of Thais M Germani, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Thais M Germani
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91355  (Online Only)
With extensive experience in evidence-based practices, I support clients facing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, body image issues, addictions, trauma, and more.
I offer a compassionate and tailored approach to therapy, utilizing a diverse range of treatment modalities to meet clients' unique needs. I firmly believe that a satisfying and fulfilling life is achievable for everyone, regardless of their circumstances. I am dedicated to helping clients feel better and find joy in their lives. I speak both English and Spanish and embrace all cultures.
With extensive experience in evidence-based practices, I support clients facing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, body image issues, addictions, trauma, and more.
I offer a compassionate and tailored approach to therapy, utilizing a diverse range of treatment modalities to meet clients' unique needs. I firmly believe that a satisfying and fulfilling life is achievable for everyone, regardless of their circumstances. I am dedicated to helping clients feel better and find joy in their lives. I speak both English and Spanish and embrace all cultures.
(661) 529-7012 View (661) 529-7012
Photo of Jacquie Pershing, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacquie Pershing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91321  (Online Only)
Led by my own life experience with mental health and grief and fueled by my work in private practice, I strive to provide support to all kinds of people experiencing all types of loss. Together, we can navigate the storms and celebrate the rainbows that await on the other side. Whether you are experiencing the loss of a loved one, going through a significant life change, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of daily life, I am here to support you and be a companion as you move through your healing journey
Led by my own life experience with mental health and grief and fueled by my work in private practice, I strive to provide support to all kinds of people experiencing all types of loss. Together, we can navigate the storms and celebrate the rainbows that await on the other side. Whether you are experiencing the loss of a loved one, going through a significant life change, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of daily life, I am here to support you and be a companion as you move through your healing journey
(661) 760-7573 View (661) 760-7573
Photo of Samantha Markman - Santa Clarita Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Santa Clarita Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91350
Establishing a trusting relationship and working collaboratively with our clients is our primary goal. My name is Samantha Markman and I have hand selected a team of excellent therapists with various specialties. We strive to create a therapeutic space of comfort and support, as we work with you to explore deep personal issues and experiment with new ways of thinking. We work with a wide range of clients that are dealing with various issues including depression, anxiety, infidelity, postpartum issues, addictive behaviors, LGBT issues, eating disorders, codependency, grief and loss, life transitions, and various types of trauma.
Establishing a trusting relationship and working collaboratively with our clients is our primary goal. My name is Samantha Markman and I have hand selected a team of excellent therapists with various specialties. We strive to create a therapeutic space of comfort and support, as we work with you to explore deep personal issues and experiment with new ways of thinking. We work with a wide range of clients that are dealing with various issues including depression, anxiety, infidelity, postpartum issues, addictive behaviors, LGBT issues, eating disorders, codependency, grief and loss, life transitions, and various types of trauma.
(661) 441-3124 View (661) 441-3124
Photo of Elysa Thangchaipinyokul, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elysa Thangchaipinyokul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91387
Hello! My name is Elysa Thangchaipinyokul and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. I attended the University of Southern California and graduated in 2010 with my Master of Social Work (MSW) Degree. I've worked in mental health for over 10 years providing psychotherapy primarily to adults and older adults. My primary expertise has been working with clients who are dealing with mood disorders (Bipolar, Depression & Anxiety). I also have worked with clients dealing with grief, trauma, and life transitions/adjustments.
Hello! My name is Elysa Thangchaipinyokul and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. I attended the University of Southern California and graduated in 2010 with my Master of Social Work (MSW) Degree. I've worked in mental health for over 10 years providing psychotherapy primarily to adults and older adults. My primary expertise has been working with clients who are dealing with mood disorders (Bipolar, Depression & Anxiety). I also have worked with clients dealing with grief, trauma, and life transitions/adjustments.
(661) 320-8709 View (661) 320-8709
Photo of Julie Laraway, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Laraway
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
In today’s face-paced and uncertain world, both children / teens and adults are facing unprecedented levels of anxiety, depression, grief and trauma. My clients share that anxiety, overwhelm, or distress impacts their life and overall well-being, and wondering if life should feel easier than it does. Many of my clients have also experienced something traumatic and it has left a feeling of disconnect from self, others, and/or daily life. As a therapist, I believe that with the right support, a better life is within reach for all my clients. I believe you deserve to live a life filled with hope, and the promise of a brighter future.
In today’s face-paced and uncertain world, both children / teens and adults are facing unprecedented levels of anxiety, depression, grief and trauma. My clients share that anxiety, overwhelm, or distress impacts their life and overall well-being, and wondering if life should feel easier than it does. Many of my clients have also experienced something traumatic and it has left a feeling of disconnect from self, others, and/or daily life. As a therapist, I believe that with the right support, a better life is within reach for all my clients. I believe you deserve to live a life filled with hope, and the promise of a brighter future.
(661) 731-3919 View (661) 731-3919
Photo of Elise G. Moore, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elise G. Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91351  (Online Only)
I integrate techniques from multiple modalities that will suit you and your needs, including Gestalt, DBT, narrative, and solution-focused therapies, with particular specialties in abuse, trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, and codependency.
As a therapist with 10 years of experience, I specialize in creating a safe and nurturing space where you can find healing from the challenges life brings. With compassion and expertise, I will support you with managing everyday and unfamiliar issues, as well as how larger societal barriers affect you. I cherish the privilege of working with diverse individuals and relationships working through life's many transitions. Whether you're a teen navigating the complexities of growing up, an adult seeking balance, or a couple striving to deepen your connection, I'm dedicated to supporting your goals.
I integrate techniques from multiple modalities that will suit you and your needs, including Gestalt, DBT, narrative, and solution-focused therapies, with particular specialties in abuse, trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, and codependency.
As a therapist with 10 years of experience, I specialize in creating a safe and nurturing space where you can find healing from the challenges life brings. With compassion and expertise, I will support you with managing everyday and unfamiliar issues, as well as how larger societal barriers affect you. I cherish the privilege of working with diverse individuals and relationships working through life's many transitions. Whether you're a teen navigating the complexities of growing up, an adult seeking balance, or a couple striving to deepen your connection, I'm dedicated to supporting your goals.
(213) 816-4151 View (213) 816-4151
Photo of Monica Lopez Garcia, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica Lopez Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
Life can be stressful. On the outside, it may seem like you have it all together, yet on the inside you may feel trapped in a web of worry, frustration, sadness, or insecurity. Whether you’re faced with a life-changing event, a loss, or struggling with daily life stressors that overwhelm you, please know that you don't have to feel alone. I will provide you with a judgement-free space so that you may openly discuss your feelings and feel heard. My focus is helping clients learn positive coping skills to manage anxiety, loss, sadness, life transitions, improve their self-confidence, and learn to set healthy boundaries for themselves.
Life can be stressful. On the outside, it may seem like you have it all together, yet on the inside you may feel trapped in a web of worry, frustration, sadness, or insecurity. Whether you’re faced with a life-changing event, a loss, or struggling with daily life stressors that overwhelm you, please know that you don't have to feel alone. I will provide you with a judgement-free space so that you may openly discuss your feelings and feel heard. My focus is helping clients learn positive coping skills to manage anxiety, loss, sadness, life transitions, improve their self-confidence, and learn to set healthy boundaries for themselves.
(661) 276-9217 View (661) 276-9217
Photo of Kyle Scates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyle Scates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91310  (Online Only)
If you’re like most people, the pressures of today’s society are difficult to manage. We struggle with feelings of anxiety, sadness, or grief that are often exacerbated by relationship or identity issues, increased stress from work, or difficulty coping with the increased awareness of racial injustice. You’ve tried talking to your friends or family but no one seems to understand what you’re going through. As an agent of change, I’m here to actively listen and collaborate on helping you become the best and most authentic version of yourself.
If you’re like most people, the pressures of today’s society are difficult to manage. We struggle with feelings of anxiety, sadness, or grief that are often exacerbated by relationship or identity issues, increased stress from work, or difficulty coping with the increased awareness of racial injustice. You’ve tried talking to your friends or family but no one seems to understand what you’re going through. As an agent of change, I’m here to actively listen and collaborate on helping you become the best and most authentic version of yourself.
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Photo of Dr. Joung-Woo John Kim, MA, PsyD, PhD, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dr. Joung-Woo John Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, PsyD, PhD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91354
Mental health is as important as physical health. So if you need professional help with your mind, just as you would seek a doctor for your physical health, you need to see a mental health therapist. John is passionate about working with individuals and couples on mental issues including stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, disconnection with self and others, hopelessness, abandonment, rejection, betrayal, losses/ grief, self value and (pre)marital issues. I am also a Prepare/Enrich Facilitator and can help couple get the relationship analyzed across 14 dimensions including communication, finance, sex, parenting, religion, etc.
Mental health is as important as physical health. So if you need professional help with your mind, just as you would seek a doctor for your physical health, you need to see a mental health therapist. John is passionate about working with individuals and couples on mental issues including stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, disconnection with self and others, hopelessness, abandonment, rejection, betrayal, losses/ grief, self value and (pre)marital issues. I am also a Prepare/Enrich Facilitator and can help couple get the relationship analyzed across 14 dimensions including communication, finance, sex, parenting, religion, etc.
(626) 900-0964 View (626) 900-0964
Photo of Leticia Juliette Delling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leticia Juliette Delling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91354  (Online Only)
I have been a practicing clinician since 2010. I work with adults ages 18 and older suffering from depression, anxiety, interpersonal problems/family and relationship problems, life transitions, grief/ loss, and trauma.
I have been a practicing clinician since 2010. I work with adults ages 18 and older suffering from depression, anxiety, interpersonal problems/family and relationship problems, life transitions, grief/ loss, and trauma.
(661) 247-8115 View (661) 247-8115
Photo of Stephanie Swope, MA, LPCC, PPS, NCC
Stephanie Swope
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, PPS, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91354
I'm qualified to help with many challenges; however, I specialize in using trauma-informed techniques like somatic therapy, EMDR, & IFS to help with CPTSD, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, and grief.
Feeling overwhelmed? Are you struggling to change? Do you know in your mind what you need to do but can't seem to change your pattern? Are you struggling to focus, stay present, or be productive? Maybe little things feel more frustrating, tense, or stressful than usual. Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. Even when we know the cause, change can still feel impossible. That's where I come in. My job is to listen without judgment, help you understand the root causes of your issues, and teach you practical tools to change your life.
I'm qualified to help with many challenges; however, I specialize in using trauma-informed techniques like somatic therapy, EMDR, & IFS to help with CPTSD, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, and grief.
Feeling overwhelmed? Are you struggling to change? Do you know in your mind what you need to do but can't seem to change your pattern? Are you struggling to focus, stay present, or be productive? Maybe little things feel more frustrating, tense, or stressful than usual. Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. Even when we know the cause, change can still feel impossible. That's where I come in. My job is to listen without judgment, help you understand the root causes of your issues, and teach you practical tools to change your life.
(707) 241-9070 View (707) 241-9070
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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.