Photo of Lauren J Auerbach, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Lauren J Auerbach
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Does anxiety, fear, sadness, grief, confusion, helplessness, anger, or shame overwhelm you? Maybe a recent loss or previous trauma affects the way you are coping. Perhaps you struggle to navigate your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, or relationships. Let me help you find meaning, patterns, and ultimately relief, with compassion, insight, and tools to heal. Through this process, I hope you will find a greater sense of calm, clarity, and agency.
Does anxiety, fear, sadness, grief, confusion, helplessness, anger, or shame overwhelm you? Maybe a recent loss or previous trauma affects the way you are coping. Perhaps you struggle to navigate your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, or relationships. Let me help you find meaning, patterns, and ultimately relief, with compassion, insight, and tools to heal. Through this process, I hope you will find a greater sense of calm, clarity, and agency.
(323) 775-9882 View (323) 775-9882
Photo of Zabelle Zoë Deurdulian, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90403, CA
Zabelle Zoë Deurdulian
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Most of my work includes working with creatives, expats, trauma, grief & loss, end of life support, postpartum depression and identity, career-related stress, life transitions, divorce and separation, personal and professional relationships (including non-traditional relationships).
Therapy is learning to use yourself as source for truth. It is my honor to be able to support and guide my clients through this process. I hold the perception that we are all creative beings who are artists of our own lives. I believe that every individual has a unique blueprint and a unique way of living. When we paint with the colors that ignite our truest essence, we become tuned and we attract what is in alignment with us. Yet to do so, we must know and understand ourselves. It is in this impactful space where we can find tremendous healing, growth and elevation.
Most of my work includes working with creatives, expats, trauma, grief & loss, end of life support, postpartum depression and identity, career-related stress, life transitions, divorce and separation, personal and professional relationships (including non-traditional relationships).
Therapy is learning to use yourself as source for truth. It is my honor to be able to support and guide my clients through this process. I hold the perception that we are all creative beings who are artists of our own lives. I believe that every individual has a unique blueprint and a unique way of living. When we paint with the colors that ignite our truest essence, we become tuned and we attract what is in alignment with us. Yet to do so, we must know and understand ourselves. It is in this impactful space where we can find tremendous healing, growth and elevation.
(805) 600-5460 View (805) 600-5460
Photo of Cole Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90403, CA
Cole Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping people cope with grief and loss in a healthy way.
Have you lost someone you love? Maybe they passed away, or maybe they are still around, but the situation has changed. You might feel lost and confused, as though you are a stranger in your own life. Standing in the sun, you feel chilled and alone. Or you may feel relatively well, but deep down you know there is "a lot to process". You can stuff your feelings, but it won't be so simple to move on. You want to feel healthy, comfortable, to UNDERSTAND, and know that you can not only survive this experience but also transform it, transcend it, and make peace with your demons.
I specialize in helping people cope with grief and loss in a healthy way.
Have you lost someone you love? Maybe they passed away, or maybe they are still around, but the situation has changed. You might feel lost and confused, as though you are a stranger in your own life. Standing in the sun, you feel chilled and alone. Or you may feel relatively well, but deep down you know there is "a lot to process". You can stuff your feelings, but it won't be so simple to move on. You want to feel healthy, comfortable, to UNDERSTAND, and know that you can not only survive this experience but also transform it, transcend it, and make peace with your demons.
(424) 270-1421 View (424) 270-1421
Photo of Lisa Chester-Schyman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Lisa Chester-Schyman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
As a trained grief specialist, I specialize in grief and loss work with adults, teens and adolescents.
I provide a safe and compassionate environment to support you in your life journey and its many challenges. Through our work together you will develop a deeper understanding of yourself, which will allow you to navigate the murky waters of life, manage transitions, and live a life filled with meaning. Together we will explore your true nature and I will support you to find more comfort in your life by teaching you tools to overcome obstacles to your emotional well-being. Our collaboration will allow you to move through the more challenging times in your life with a greater sense of ease. I work with adults, teens, and adolescents.
As a trained grief specialist, I specialize in grief and loss work with adults, teens and adolescents.
I provide a safe and compassionate environment to support you in your life journey and its many challenges. Through our work together you will develop a deeper understanding of yourself, which will allow you to navigate the murky waters of life, manage transitions, and live a life filled with meaning. Together we will explore your true nature and I will support you to find more comfort in your life by teaching you tools to overcome obstacles to your emotional well-being. Our collaboration will allow you to move through the more challenging times in your life with a greater sense of ease. I work with adults, teens, and adolescents.
(424) 532-8592 View (424) 532-8592
Photo of Dr. Samantha Schlossmann Psy.d, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Dr. Samantha Schlossmann Psy.d
Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are you suffering from unresolved grief and loss, stress, addiction, anxiety or depression? I can help. I specialize in the treatment of trauma for adults, adolescents and children. We will work together to create a therapeutic space where we can assess your challenges and find creative resolution to your problems. You don't have to do it alone. My approach is to provide a safe nurturing and empathetic environment while supporting you to uncover your own natural resilience. I will help you connect with your innate ability to heal, develop skills to reduce your negative symptoms, and live a full and authentic life.
Are you suffering from unresolved grief and loss, stress, addiction, anxiety or depression? I can help. I specialize in the treatment of trauma for adults, adolescents and children. We will work together to create a therapeutic space where we can assess your challenges and find creative resolution to your problems. You don't have to do it alone. My approach is to provide a safe nurturing and empathetic environment while supporting you to uncover your own natural resilience. I will help you connect with your innate ability to heal, develop skills to reduce your negative symptoms, and live a full and authentic life.
(424) 358-3098 View (424) 358-3098
Photo of Charles Scott Dewell, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Charles Scott Dewell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
You may be feeling overwhelmed by a recent relationship breakup, the loss of a loved one, or the loss of a job.
Charles Dewell, M.A., LMFT I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adult individuals and couples, helping them navigate their relationship, career and personal issues. My mission is to provide a safe refuge where my clients feel understood and encouraged to persevere through the ebb and flow of life's challenges.
You may be feeling overwhelmed by a recent relationship breakup, the loss of a loved one, or the loss of a job.
Charles Dewell, M.A., LMFT I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adult individuals and couples, helping them navigate their relationship, career and personal issues. My mission is to provide a safe refuge where my clients feel understood and encouraged to persevere through the ebb and flow of life's challenges.
(310) 773-3504 View (310) 773-3504
Photo of Amada Battista, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Amada Battista
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I will collaborate with you in developing problem-solving skills to enhance the coping strategies that will help you deal with depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and other anxiety-producing experiences. I focus on understanding your symptoms within the context of your interpersonal relationships.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I will collaborate with you in developing problem-solving skills to enhance the coping strategies that will help you deal with depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and other anxiety-producing experiences. I focus on understanding your symptoms within the context of your interpersonal relationships.
(424) 383-7690 View (424) 383-7690
Photo of Audrey Moreno, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90403, CA
Audrey Moreno
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I help clients struggling with anxiety, grief, codependency, depression, and relationship growth/challenges.
My work focuses on analyzing the relationship with the unconscious and conscious mind within each client. I utilize a blend of therapeutic techniques that include inner child healing and reparenting in order to integrates all the parts of self. I am committed to a life-long journey of increased compassion for self and others and invite clients to do the same.
I help clients struggling with anxiety, grief, codependency, depression, and relationship growth/challenges.
My work focuses on analyzing the relationship with the unconscious and conscious mind within each client. I utilize a blend of therapeutic techniques that include inner child healing and reparenting in order to integrates all the parts of self. I am committed to a life-long journey of increased compassion for self and others and invite clients to do the same.
(424) 351-9531 View (424) 351-9531
Photo of Natalie Badawy, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in 90403, CA
Natalie Badawy
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, APCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Many of us carry our emotional wounds in our bodies and only when we create a connection between the mind and the body can we feel whole again. I utilize a blend of therapeutic techniques that include shadow work, inner child healing, internal family systems (IFS), somatic therapy, and reparenting in order to create a safe connection within the body and mind. When you are in connection with your whole self you are then equipped to heal your relationship with others and the planet. I help clients struggling with sexual trauma, grief, codependency, depression, and relationship challenges.
Many of us carry our emotional wounds in our bodies and only when we create a connection between the mind and the body can we feel whole again. I utilize a blend of therapeutic techniques that include shadow work, inner child healing, internal family systems (IFS), somatic therapy, and reparenting in order to create a safe connection within the body and mind. When you are in connection with your whole self you are then equipped to heal your relationship with others and the planet. I help clients struggling with sexual trauma, grief, codependency, depression, and relationship challenges.
(310) 564-7308 View (310) 564-7308
Photo of Maria Gray, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Maria Gray
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, NMP, CGP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I specialize in treating acute stress, trauma & addictions, grief & loss, and relationship issues.
Are you tired of traditional talk therapy? Overwhelmed with feelings of anxiety, or fear and stress? Maybe you feel like you've already done "so much work on yourself" and yet you still engage in some self-defeating patterns. This may show up in dating the same dysfunctional type of person, or acting out childhood patterns at work, overworking to please your boss without being recognized. You may lack patience or sometimes get impatient with your partner/children, the same way your parents were with you. Or maybe you shut down when you need to speak up, since many of us were taught to be "good little girls and boys". I can help.
I specialize in treating acute stress, trauma & addictions, grief & loss, and relationship issues.
Are you tired of traditional talk therapy? Overwhelmed with feelings of anxiety, or fear and stress? Maybe you feel like you've already done "so much work on yourself" and yet you still engage in some self-defeating patterns. This may show up in dating the same dysfunctional type of person, or acting out childhood patterns at work, overworking to please your boss without being recognized. You may lack patience or sometimes get impatient with your partner/children, the same way your parents were with you. Or maybe you shut down when you need to speak up, since many of us were taught to be "good little girls and boys". I can help.
(310) 846-8954 View (310) 846-8954
Photo of Kristen Welke, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Kristen Welke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Whether a client is grappling with anger, depression, anxiety, substance-related concerns, identity issues, grief/loss, LGBTQIA-specific topics, or relationship issues, I am here to collaboratively address and support my clients in achieving their therapeutic goals.
Life can be really hard and oftentimes we need additional support. I love working with individuals through life's transitions and challenges. A belief and dedication to growth, resilience, and well-being, I prioritize trauma-informed care and social justice in my practice. I emphasize authenticity and genuine connections by integrating empathy, creativity, and humor into sessions using Gestalt Therapy. Whether guiding teens or adults through various life’s transitions or focusing on improving a client’s mental well-being, my approach remains culturally conscious and sensitive to individual experiences in the broader societal context
Whether a client is grappling with anger, depression, anxiety, substance-related concerns, identity issues, grief/loss, LGBTQIA-specific topics, or relationship issues, I am here to collaboratively address and support my clients in achieving their therapeutic goals.
Life can be really hard and oftentimes we need additional support. I love working with individuals through life's transitions and challenges. A belief and dedication to growth, resilience, and well-being, I prioritize trauma-informed care and social justice in my practice. I emphasize authenticity and genuine connections by integrating empathy, creativity, and humor into sessions using Gestalt Therapy. Whether guiding teens or adults through various life’s transitions or focusing on improving a client’s mental well-being, my approach remains culturally conscious and sensitive to individual experiences in the broader societal context
(424) 383-6792 View (424) 383-6792
Photo of Lisa Osborn, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Lisa Osborn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
However, successful treatment depends on making an accurate diagnosis, dealing with any underlying issues and associated feelings of loss and grief.
Are you struggling to put your life back to together after the birth of your baby? Are you just not feeling the way you expected? Or, like yourself? Are you iritable and overwhelmed? Possibly your relationship with your partner is suffering as well. Are these feelings robbing you of the joy of being with your infant? If so, you may be suffering from postpartum stress.
However, successful treatment depends on making an accurate diagnosis, dealing with any underlying issues and associated feelings of loss and grief.
Are you struggling to put your life back to together after the birth of your baby? Are you just not feeling the way you expected? Or, like yourself? Are you iritable and overwhelmed? Possibly your relationship with your partner is suffering as well. Are these feelings robbing you of the joy of being with your infant? If so, you may be suffering from postpartum stress.
(310) 579-2867 View (310) 579-2867
Photo of Karen Wiener, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Karen Wiener
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
I also work extensively with people dealing with anxiety and depression, as well as life transitions, such as divorce, grief, empty nest, and career change.
If you are dealing with infidelity, sexual secrets, sex addiction, or drug and alcohol addiction, I am glad you are here. As a licensed therapist specializing in sex addiction (CSAT-C), and trained in EMDR trauma therapy, I also support people with complex trauma and betrayal trauma. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals and couples who are struggling in these areas.
I also work extensively with people dealing with anxiety and depression, as well as life transitions, such as divorce, grief, empty nest, and career change.
If you are dealing with infidelity, sexual secrets, sex addiction, or drug and alcohol addiction, I am glad you are here. As a licensed therapist specializing in sex addiction (CSAT-C), and trained in EMDR trauma therapy, I also support people with complex trauma and betrayal trauma. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals and couples who are struggling in these areas.
(310) 510-6151 View (310) 510-6151
Photo of Jane Bryson, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Jane Bryson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I also specialize in life transitions, health concerns, coping with divorce, grief and loss, and post-traumatic stress reactions.
I provide a caring & objective atmosphere to encourage your self-awareness and emotional growth. One rare, unifying finding among all specialities of psychotherapy is that a strong therapeutic relationship is vital to success. Therefore, I will be your partner throughout the process, both supporting & challenging you along the way. During the over 35 years I have provided therapy, I have developed many approaches tailored to the unique needs of each client. Originally trained in psychodynamic therapy, my therapeutic approach now is eclectic and includes cognitive behavior therapy to facilitate observable change.
I also specialize in life transitions, health concerns, coping with divorce, grief and loss, and post-traumatic stress reactions.
I provide a caring & objective atmosphere to encourage your self-awareness and emotional growth. One rare, unifying finding among all specialities of psychotherapy is that a strong therapeutic relationship is vital to success. Therefore, I will be your partner throughout the process, both supporting & challenging you along the way. During the over 35 years I have provided therapy, I have developed many approaches tailored to the unique needs of each client. Originally trained in psychodynamic therapy, my therapeutic approach now is eclectic and includes cognitive behavior therapy to facilitate observable change.
(310) 935-4521 View (310) 935-4521
Photo of Andrew Iskandar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90403, CA
Andrew Iskandar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
We seek therapy when we feel stuck. When bumps in the road have caused us to become trapped in ways of thinking, feeling, or being that keep us from reaching our goals in life. Worries and negative thoughts fill our heads and cause us to feel that we are incapable of succeeding. We lose sight of experiencing any other way of being – of living without the anxiety, sadness, grief, loneliness, or stress.
We seek therapy when we feel stuck. When bumps in the road have caused us to become trapped in ways of thinking, feeling, or being that keep us from reaching our goals in life. Worries and negative thoughts fill our heads and cause us to feel that we are incapable of succeeding. We lose sight of experiencing any other way of being – of living without the anxiety, sadness, grief, loneliness, or stress.
(424) 414-6091 View (424) 414-6091
Photo of Monica Farassat, Psy.D., Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Monica Farassat, Psy.D.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CGP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Many people shy away from asking for help when in emotional and psychological pain. It is not easy to ask for help. Perhaps there are feelings of shame underlying the recognition of one's vulnerability. But in essence these are the times that important and life-altering changes can occur. I am invested in establishing a safe, supportive, and truthful interaction with you towards improving your life, your choices, and your relationships, & have over 25 years of experience as proof. The concerns that I have worked with extensively include depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, substance-abuse, adjustment, crisis intervention, & individuation.
Many people shy away from asking for help when in emotional and psychological pain. It is not easy to ask for help. Perhaps there are feelings of shame underlying the recognition of one's vulnerability. But in essence these are the times that important and life-altering changes can occur. I am invested in establishing a safe, supportive, and truthful interaction with you towards improving your life, your choices, and your relationships, & have over 25 years of experience as proof. The concerns that I have worked with extensively include depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, substance-abuse, adjustment, crisis intervention, & individuation.
(310) 737-8975 View (310) 737-8975
Photo of Daniel C. Slavin, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Daniel C. Slavin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Whether you are seeking therapy for anxiety, self-esteem, emotional or physiological pain, self- destructive behavior, grief, trauma-related feelings, relationships, ADD, ADHD, Dyslexia, or need life coaching, my unique, effective approach to psychotherapy will assist you in establishing very clear, tangible goals and acquiring the tools to meet those goals.
If your goals or dreams have drifted, seem out of reach, or you just feel stuck, I can help navigate you to a better understanding of yourself for permanent change. I learn to speak your individual language, to help and coach you to live a more manageable and meaningful life. I take a goal-oriented approach to psychotherapy. My innovative techniques help to empower patients to learn the tools and strategies they need to navigate through life challenges. I will assist you in defining achievable goals and will help you learn simple, understandable procedures that will become second nature to help you reach those goals.
Whether you are seeking therapy for anxiety, self-esteem, emotional or physiological pain, self- destructive behavior, grief, trauma-related feelings, relationships, ADD, ADHD, Dyslexia, or need life coaching, my unique, effective approach to psychotherapy will assist you in establishing very clear, tangible goals and acquiring the tools to meet those goals.
If your goals or dreams have drifted, seem out of reach, or you just feel stuck, I can help navigate you to a better understanding of yourself for permanent change. I learn to speak your individual language, to help and coach you to live a more manageable and meaningful life. I take a goal-oriented approach to psychotherapy. My innovative techniques help to empower patients to learn the tools and strategies they need to navigate through life challenges. I will assist you in defining achievable goals and will help you learn simple, understandable procedures that will become second nature to help you reach those goals.
(424) 286-4938 View (424) 286-4938
Photo of David Ibrahim, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC, EMDR , EYRT500, ISTDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Aren’t you tired of anxiety, loss, suffering or dealing with emotional challenges? From one to several sessions you can get rapid relief from your symptoms.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Aren’t you tired of anxiety, loss, suffering or dealing with emotional challenges? From one to several sessions you can get rapid relief from your symptoms.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
(805) 420-7531 View (805) 420-7531
Photo of Maxine J Dusig, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Maxine J Dusig, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Qualified for 30 years to work with loss of relationships, bereavement.
It is a privilege to work with you. I am committed to assist you in discovering any emotional issues that may be troubling. Some of the issues may be relationships, depression, anxiety or any crisis. I am understanding of life's difficulties. I will help you discover how they are affecting you. You will gain more knowledge about yourself as well as others. You may need to learn new tools in managing difficult situations. I will help you to grow, gain more knowledge of yourself, and to set better boundaries In communication. I look forward to meeting with you and establishing a good working relationship.
Qualified for 30 years to work with loss of relationships, bereavement.
It is a privilege to work with you. I am committed to assist you in discovering any emotional issues that may be troubling. Some of the issues may be relationships, depression, anxiety or any crisis. I am understanding of life's difficulties. I will help you discover how they are affecting you. You will gain more knowledge about yourself as well as others. You may need to learn new tools in managing difficult situations. I will help you to grow, gain more knowledge of yourself, and to set better boundaries In communication. I look forward to meeting with you and establishing a good working relationship.
(310) 828-2323 View (310) 828-2323
Photo of Jamie Stern, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90403, CA
Jamie Stern
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are you going through internal struggle due to trauma? Do you feel anxious and depressed about the future? Do you struggle with family issues and relationship issues? I’m willing to meet you where you are, help you process unwanted thoughts and emotions, and help develop an action plan to effectively cultivate your healing and growth. I’m here to help you explore unresolved feelings (anxiety, depression, anger, helplessness, grief, etc.) and develop skills to effectively cope with them. Thus, you can feel relieved and fulfilled in your relationship with yourself and others.
Are you going through internal struggle due to trauma? Do you feel anxious and depressed about the future? Do you struggle with family issues and relationship issues? I’m willing to meet you where you are, help you process unwanted thoughts and emotions, and help develop an action plan to effectively cultivate your healing and growth. I’m here to help you explore unresolved feelings (anxiety, depression, anger, helplessness, grief, etc.) and develop skills to effectively cope with them. Thus, you can feel relieved and fulfilled in your relationship with yourself and others.
(818) 338-5852 View (818) 338-5852
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.