Grief Therapists in Tracy, CA

Photo of Caroline Petruk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Petruk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95376
The clients that I work most effectively with are adult women and men facing challenges such as anxiety, cancer and chronic illnesses, infertility, life transitions, grief and loss, and stress. I am passionate about walking alongside my clients on their journey to getting back to peace and meaningful connection within their lives.
The clients that I work most effectively with are adult women and men facing challenges such as anxiety, cancer and chronic illnesses, infertility, life transitions, grief and loss, and stress. I am passionate about walking alongside my clients on their journey to getting back to peace and meaningful connection within their lives.
(209) 340-3150 View (209) 340-3150
Photo of Tania Cisneros-Ventura, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tania Cisneros-Ventura
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tracy, CA 95376  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual, bicultural Latina therapist experienced in working with diverse communities. I have experience working with children, individuals, couples and groups to address trauma, anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions. Life is not easy. We have all faced challenges and circumstances that have profound effects on our sense of self. Trauma and pain deny us access to hear our own voice. Unresolved grief, pain, anger, shame, guilt or emotional neglect silence our voices. I offer you a safe, supportive and challenging environment that will allow you to explore and grow in your areas of need and reclaim your voice.
I am a bilingual, bicultural Latina therapist experienced in working with diverse communities. I have experience working with children, individuals, couples and groups to address trauma, anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions. Life is not easy. We have all faced challenges and circumstances that have profound effects on our sense of self. Trauma and pain deny us access to hear our own voice. Unresolved grief, pain, anger, shame, guilt or emotional neglect silence our voices. I offer you a safe, supportive and challenging environment that will allow you to explore and grow in your areas of need and reclaim your voice.
(209) 752-6274 View (209) 752-6274
Photo of Victoria E Boccanfuso, PsyD, Psychologist
Victoria E Boccanfuso
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tracy, CA 95376
Waitlist for new clients
Some of the common, everyday issues that I work with are loss, grief, stress, anxiety, worry, relationships (romantic, friendship, professional working, family).
I focus on dynamic therapy techniques of assisting individuals in self actualizing (striving for and reaching personal and professional goals) to the extent of their interests and abilities, not the expectations set by others. I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, concerns related to weight and body image, and the life challenges that affect all of us on a regular basis. I also specialize in family separation and custody needs. You do not have to have a specific or serious diagnosis to benefit from therapy. Everyone can benefit from therapy and seeking therapy does not make a person sick.
Some of the common, everyday issues that I work with are loss, grief, stress, anxiety, worry, relationships (romantic, friendship, professional working, family).
I focus on dynamic therapy techniques of assisting individuals in self actualizing (striving for and reaching personal and professional goals) to the extent of their interests and abilities, not the expectations set by others. I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, concerns related to weight and body image, and the life challenges that affect all of us on a regular basis. I also specialize in family separation and custody needs. You do not have to have a specific or serious diagnosis to benefit from therapy. Everyone can benefit from therapy and seeking therapy does not make a person sick.
(209) 740-4433 View (209) 740-4433
Photo of Yolanda Bolden, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Yolanda Bolden
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95376
My experience includes working with anxiety, trauma, grief and depression.
My name is Yolanda Bolden and I am an Associate Marriage Family Therapist (AMFT). I graduated from Holy Names University where I earned my Bachelor’s and Master's Degree in Psychology. In addition to working at A to Z Psychotherapy, I am also a Mental Health Clinician Specialist with Contra Costa County. I have over 25 years of experience working with children, young women and young adults in the Christian Community as a bible study teacher, and group facilitator.
My experience includes working with anxiety, trauma, grief and depression.
My name is Yolanda Bolden and I am an Associate Marriage Family Therapist (AMFT). I graduated from Holy Names University where I earned my Bachelor’s and Master's Degree in Psychology. In addition to working at A to Z Psychotherapy, I am also a Mental Health Clinician Specialist with Contra Costa County. I have over 25 years of experience working with children, young women and young adults in the Christian Community as a bible study teacher, and group facilitator.
(209) 886-2428 View (209) 886-2428
Photo of Dr. Christiane Speed, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Christiane Speed
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95376  (Online Only)
I provide individual therapy and parenting support. I specialize in the treatment of: Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, and Maternal Mental Health. I have over 12 years experience providing psychotherapy and mental health services to clients of all ages and from all walks of life. I work with individuals and families on a variety of issues including: communication, relationship and conflict resolution skills, building and sustaining healthy friendships, parent-child relationships and positive parenting, and stress management.
I provide individual therapy and parenting support. I specialize in the treatment of: Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, and Maternal Mental Health. I have over 12 years experience providing psychotherapy and mental health services to clients of all ages and from all walks of life. I work with individuals and families on a variety of issues including: communication, relationship and conflict resolution skills, building and sustaining healthy friendships, parent-child relationships and positive parenting, and stress management.
(336) 814-8048 View (336) 814-8048
Photo of Yadira Cardenas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yadira Cardenas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95376
Hello, my name is Yadira Cardenas, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of California. I provide telehealth services to help support individuals during difficult life circumstances and transitions. I am fluent in Spanish and enjoy working with adults of all ages. My experience consists of working with individuals facing symptoms of anxiety, grief & loss, marital issues, stress, life transitions, trauma, and maternal mental health issues. I use a strength-based approach in working with my clients to help them find skills that will promote healing and an improved quality of life.
Hello, my name is Yadira Cardenas, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of California. I provide telehealth services to help support individuals during difficult life circumstances and transitions. I am fluent in Spanish and enjoy working with adults of all ages. My experience consists of working with individuals facing symptoms of anxiety, grief & loss, marital issues, stress, life transitions, trauma, and maternal mental health issues. I use a strength-based approach in working with my clients to help them find skills that will promote healing and an improved quality of life.
(209) 583-3741 View (209) 583-3741
Photo of Dr. James E. Taylor - Sunshine Neuropsychology, Inc., PsyD, MA, CBIS, Psychologist
Sunshine Neuropsychology, Inc.
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, CBIS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tracy, CA 95377
Sunshine Neuropsychology, Inc. offers a variety of services to improve the life quality of children and adults. Assessments we offer include Neuropsychological, Psychological, ADHD, Autism, Learning Disability, Intellectual Disability, Independent Educational (IEE), Gifted, Pre-Surgical, Chronic Pain, and Political Asylum. Individual psychotherapy is offered to treat a plethora of conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, grief, posttraumatic stress, limited social skills). Cognitive rehabilitation therapy (i.e., therapy that helps clients improve cognitive functioning after brain injury) is available as well.
Sunshine Neuropsychology, Inc. offers a variety of services to improve the life quality of children and adults. Assessments we offer include Neuropsychological, Psychological, ADHD, Autism, Learning Disability, Intellectual Disability, Independent Educational (IEE), Gifted, Pre-Surgical, Chronic Pain, and Political Asylum. Individual psychotherapy is offered to treat a plethora of conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, grief, posttraumatic stress, limited social skills). Cognitive rehabilitation therapy (i.e., therapy that helps clients improve cognitive functioning after brain injury) is available as well.
(209) 682-0071 View (209) 682-0071
Photo of Mattie Spires-Peppers, L, M, F, T, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mattie Spires-Peppers
Marriage & Family Therapist, L, M, F, T
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95376
Hello my name is Mattie Spires-Peppers and I am a graduate of J.F.K.U. I work with adolescents, adults, and families providing therapy using a variety of modalities but, work with most clients using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focus Therapy. I have worked with many clients that were experiencing trauma, grief, depression and bullying. As a therapist it is important to provide a safe environment where clients can speak freely without judgement. Clients can work through identify and understand patterns and behaviors in everyday life to promote growth and remove old behaviors causing stress and anxiety.
Hello my name is Mattie Spires-Peppers and I am a graduate of J.F.K.U. I work with adolescents, adults, and families providing therapy using a variety of modalities but, work with most clients using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focus Therapy. I have worked with many clients that were experiencing trauma, grief, depression and bullying. As a therapist it is important to provide a safe environment where clients can speak freely without judgement. Clients can work through identify and understand patterns and behaviors in everyday life to promote growth and remove old behaviors causing stress and anxiety.
(209) 362-3835 View (209) 362-3835
Photo of Sandy Gilcrest, LCP, Psychologist
Sandy Gilcrest
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95376
I help my clients through the many life transitions that can cause feelings of grief and loss, anxiety and depression, and fear of an unknown future, such as loss of a loved one, loss of career or divorce.
Hello, my name is Sandy Gilcrest and I am a licensed psychologist in Northern California with an Educational Doctorate (Ed.D.) in Counseling Psychology. I have 25 years of experience in the field of psychology. I have been honored by many clients who have said that I am a great listener and that they feel comfortable discussing even the most uncomfortable issues with me because I focus on problem-solving, skill building, and helping them explore their lives in ways that bring more meaning and positivity into their daily lives.
I help my clients through the many life transitions that can cause feelings of grief and loss, anxiety and depression, and fear of an unknown future, such as loss of a loved one, loss of career or divorce.
Hello, my name is Sandy Gilcrest and I am a licensed psychologist in Northern California with an Educational Doctorate (Ed.D.) in Counseling Psychology. I have 25 years of experience in the field of psychology. I have been honored by many clients who have said that I am a great listener and that they feel comfortable discussing even the most uncomfortable issues with me because I focus on problem-solving, skill building, and helping them explore their lives in ways that bring more meaning and positivity into their daily lives.
(760) 903-7059 View (760) 903-7059
Photo of Gregory D. Burns, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gregory D. Burns
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tracy, CA 95304
I am passionate about: Healing Shame (self-esteem, confidence, anger), Couples Counseling (Emotionally Focused Therapy), Old Trauma (co-dependency, PTSD), Alcoholism Recovery (12 Steps, emotional sobriety), Grief/ Loss, Christian and/or Spiritual Counseling, Aging and special needs children. My deepest conviction is the dignity of the human person and my best tools are compassion, mercy, forgiveness and grace.
I am passionate about: Healing Shame (self-esteem, confidence, anger), Couples Counseling (Emotionally Focused Therapy), Old Trauma (co-dependency, PTSD), Alcoholism Recovery (12 Steps, emotional sobriety), Grief/ Loss, Christian and/or Spiritual Counseling, Aging and special needs children. My deepest conviction is the dignity of the human person and my best tools are compassion, mercy, forgiveness and grace.
(925) 968-4753 View (925) 968-4753
Photo of Angela Perez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela Perez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95376
” My clinical experience includes working with individuals dealing with trauma, grief/ loss, anxiety, and depression, as well as, working with families being impacted by a loved one’s substance abuse issue.
My name is Angela Perez, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. For the past 21 years, I have worked in community mental health in the South Los Angeles Area serving children, teens, and adults dealing with grief/ loss, trauma, depression, and anxiety. Some of the approaches I use are Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy. I best describe myself as an “Eclectic Therapist.” My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of the clients I serve.
” My clinical experience includes working with individuals dealing with trauma, grief/ loss, anxiety, and depression, as well as, working with families being impacted by a loved one’s substance abuse issue.
My name is Angela Perez, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. For the past 21 years, I have worked in community mental health in the South Los Angeles Area serving children, teens, and adults dealing with grief/ loss, trauma, depression, and anxiety. Some of the approaches I use are Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy. I best describe myself as an “Eclectic Therapist.” My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of the clients I serve.
(661) 727-7432 View (661) 727-7432
Photo of Stephan Paul Ouellette, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephan Paul Ouellette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95376
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 Ashley Baca - Ashley Baca (Deep Wellness Center), AMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ashley Baca (Deep Wellness Center)
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tracy, CA 95377
Hello! I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about helping individuals learn lifelong skills to better their mental health. I believe in a strength-based approach and want to empower my clients to know they have the tools to be their best selves. I am experienced in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship distress, parenting issues, behavioral issues in children, low self-esteem/self-worth, grief/ loss, and general dissatisfaction with life.
Hello! I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about helping individuals learn lifelong skills to better their mental health. I believe in a strength-based approach and want to empower my clients to know they have the tools to be their best selves. I am experienced in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship distress, parenting issues, behavioral issues in children, low self-esteem/self-worth, grief/ loss, and general dissatisfaction with life.
(209) 219-3936 View (209) 219-3936
Photo of Diana Methfessel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Methfessel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95377
I am able to counsel in areas of anxiety/stress; depression/ grief, work challenges; parent-child conflict; transitions in life; alcohol/substance recovery support for someone struggling and support for family members; LGBTQ+ exploration, and family support.
My name is Diana Methfessel, a Licensed Marriage Family (LMFT) based in Walnut Creek and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals, adolescents, and couples, specializing in anxiety, stress, depression, and life-stage transitions. Of the thirty-six years as a clinician, I find Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and Mindful Based Therapy beneficial. For trauma-based concerns, I use Cognitive Processing Therapy, The Flash Technique, and psychodynamic methods.
I am able to counsel in areas of anxiety/stress; depression/ grief, work challenges; parent-child conflict; transitions in life; alcohol/substance recovery support for someone struggling and support for family members; LGBTQ+ exploration, and family support.
My name is Diana Methfessel, a Licensed Marriage Family (LMFT) based in Walnut Creek and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals, adolescents, and couples, specializing in anxiety, stress, depression, and life-stage transitions. Of the thirty-six years as a clinician, I find Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and Mindful Based Therapy beneficial. For trauma-based concerns, I use Cognitive Processing Therapy, The Flash Technique, and psychodynamic methods.
(951) 363-1146 View (951) 363-1146
Photo of Jennifer Ray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Ray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95376
Hi, I’m Jennifer Ray. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from Southern California. I describe my approach to therapy as present, caring, and warm. I treat patients with depression, anxiety, stress, and grief. I am open to working with patients from all walks of life. I’m most comfortable working with patients who have been diagnosed with or have symptoms of Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety, and panic disorder. I am confident working with patients who are experiencing stress from work, relationships, caregiving, and parenting. I also work with grief and loss.
Hi, I’m Jennifer Ray. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from Southern California. I describe my approach to therapy as present, caring, and warm. I treat patients with depression, anxiety, stress, and grief. I am open to working with patients from all walks of life. I’m most comfortable working with patients who have been diagnosed with or have symptoms of Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety, and panic disorder. I am confident working with patients who are experiencing stress from work, relationships, caregiving, and parenting. I also work with grief and loss.
(661) 403-5639 View (661) 403-5639
Photo of Michelle Mehrabian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Mehrabian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95391  (Online Only)
Some of the areas I work well with are: Coping Skills, Divorce, Family Conflict, Grief, Peer Relationships, Postpartum, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, StressSome of my specialties include assisting individuals with Depression, Anxiety, and Life Transition.
In our sessions, I will provide a comfortable environment where we can explore what may be weighing you down. Are you having a hard time feeling good about who you are, your relationships, or difficult life events? I can provide you a safe setting to speak from your heart, figure out what things in your life you need to shift, and learn how to get the life you deserve. I can help to empower you and help you manage uncomfortable feelings. I offer an empathetic and strength-based approach through exploring past experiences and giving suggestions to help you move toward the life you want.
Some of the areas I work well with are: Coping Skills, Divorce, Family Conflict, Grief, Peer Relationships, Postpartum, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, StressSome of my specialties include assisting individuals with Depression, Anxiety, and Life Transition.
In our sessions, I will provide a comfortable environment where we can explore what may be weighing you down. Are you having a hard time feeling good about who you are, your relationships, or difficult life events? I can provide you a safe setting to speak from your heart, figure out what things in your life you need to shift, and learn how to get the life you deserve. I can help to empower you and help you manage uncomfortable feelings. I offer an empathetic and strength-based approach through exploring past experiences and giving suggestions to help you move toward the life you want.
(628) 266-4821 View (628) 266-4821
Photo of Frances Rivera - Frances Rivera (Deep Wellness Center), MS, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Frances Rivera (Deep Wellness Center)
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tracy, CA 95377
I have extensive experience working with at risk youth, opiate dependent adults, adolescence, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, grief, addiction communities, and families.
Life is full of twists and turns and can become overwhelming at times. Therapy is an effective way to deal with life’s roadblocks. Seeking help is often misunderstood but should be seen as a strength. Let me help guide you on the right path. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families, joining with them to process their thoughts and emotions, and create clear, achievable goals. I believe that there are reasons for all behaviors and once understood can be life changing.
I have extensive experience working with at risk youth, opiate dependent adults, adolescence, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, grief, addiction communities, and families.
Life is full of twists and turns and can become overwhelming at times. Therapy is an effective way to deal with life’s roadblocks. Seeking help is often misunderstood but should be seen as a strength. Let me help guide you on the right path. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families, joining with them to process their thoughts and emotions, and create clear, achievable goals. I believe that there are reasons for all behaviors and once understood can be life changing.
(209) 219-3211 View (209) 219-3211
Photo of Elizabeth Zdradzinski, PsyD, Psychologist
Elizabeth Zdradzinski
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tracy, CA 95304
I have extensive training in CBT, family systems, attachment theory, and grief while bringing to the therapeutic relationship my own lived experiences.
I have extensive experience working with people of all ages who have faced issues of anxiety, trauma (sexual, childhood, relationship and domestic violence), depression, addiction, and gender/sexuality. I am passionate about providing services to LGBTQ individuals. I practice with knowledge of the importance of meeting others at their level of personal growth and development. Ultimately, as strength in the therapeutic relationship grows, the potential for long-term wellness, satisfaction, and success are fostered.
I have extensive training in CBT, family systems, attachment theory, and grief while bringing to the therapeutic relationship my own lived experiences.
I have extensive experience working with people of all ages who have faced issues of anxiety, trauma (sexual, childhood, relationship and domestic violence), depression, addiction, and gender/sexuality. I am passionate about providing services to LGBTQ individuals. I practice with knowledge of the importance of meeting others at their level of personal growth and development. Ultimately, as strength in the therapeutic relationship grows, the potential for long-term wellness, satisfaction, and success are fostered.
(209) 299-4706 View (209) 299-4706
Photo of Linda Comin, LCP, Psychologist
Linda Comin
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95377
Today’s world presents each of us many challenges. Life’s challenges, are our best classrooms because they present us with dilemmas that necessitate stimulating solutions. As a practicing psychologist for decades, I know all too well that these solutions can be difficult to access. At times we simply do not have the life experience to meet the current challenging situation. This is when it is beneficial to obtain an outside, unbiased, and alternative solution. For each of us these challenges may be different, such as, personal, spiritual, educational, career, illness, or grief.
Today’s world presents each of us many challenges. Life’s challenges, are our best classrooms because they present us with dilemmas that necessitate stimulating solutions. As a practicing psychologist for decades, I know all too well that these solutions can be difficult to access. At times we simply do not have the life experience to meet the current challenging situation. This is when it is beneficial to obtain an outside, unbiased, and alternative solution. For each of us these challenges may be different, such as, personal, spiritual, educational, career, illness, or grief.
(805) 519-8701 View (805) 519-8701
Photo of Anjahni Davi, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anjahni Davi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95376
I am licensed in California with over 30 years of professional mental health work experience, 20 of those as a licensed clinician. I have experience helping clients cope with addictions, family/relationship conflict, coping grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I also support others with the change of life and existential questioning. Sometimes the first steps are challenging, but I will provide a safe space for you to begin that journey. My approaches vary. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to the therapeutic process, especially when we all come from diverse backgrounds.
I am licensed in California with over 30 years of professional mental health work experience, 20 of those as a licensed clinician. I have experience helping clients cope with addictions, family/relationship conflict, coping grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I also support others with the change of life and existential questioning. Sometimes the first steps are challenging, but I will provide a safe space for you to begin that journey. My approaches vary. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to the therapeutic process, especially when we all come from diverse backgrounds.
(747) 326-5369 View (747) 326-5369
1
Grief Therapists

How long does therapy take for grief?

There is no exact timeline for grief counseling. Some people may start to feel better after just a few sessions, while others may take months or longer to feel relief. Some specific approaches, including some types of CBT, may involve a set number of sessions, or therapy may be open-ended until the patient determines they are ready to wrap up. Just as there is no right or wrong way to grieve, there is no right or wrong way to seek therapy for grief.

When should you seek therapy for grief?

Many people mistakenly believe that their grief needs to be debilitating or all-encompassing to warrant therapy. This is not the case. While people who experience severe, prolonged grief—particularly those who are considering self-harm or engaging in unhealthy substance use—are especially likely to benefit from therapy, so too are people whose grief is less intense but still interfering with well-being or daily functioning. In practice, almost anyone struggling to process a loss could benefit from grief counseling.

Can grief be managed without therapy?

Oftentimes, yes. Grief is a near-universal part of being human, and many find that their grief, while profound, does not stop them from participating in day-to-day life and steadily eases over time without outside help. For others, however, the harsh pain of early grief persists for months or years or leaves them unable to function. This group is especially likely to benefit from seeing a therapist, who can guide them through their grief and help them reconnect with the world.

What happens if grief is left untreated?

Because grief does not in itself necessitate therapy, untreated grief will often resolve on its own. However, for some people—particularly those who would qualify for a diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder—untreated grief can be a source of seemingly endless pain or lead them to withdraw from the world. In such cases, treatment can be indispensable, as it can help an individual adapt to the loss and start living again.