Grief and support
When do I need a grief counselor vs. a therapist?
Short answer
A grief counselor specializes in bereavement and is appropriate for most people after a significant loss. A therapist (especially one trained in trauma) is more appropriate if the death was sudden, violent, or involves complicated circumstances, or if the grief is significantly…
What this usually means
A grief counselor specializes in bereavement and is appropriate for most people after a significant loss. A therapist (especially one trained in trauma) is more appropriate if the death was sudden, violent, or involves complicated circumstances, or if the grief is significantly impairing daily function.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.