Shared Grief as an Impetus for Psychotherapy

Loss and grief: Psychotherapy strategies and interventions.

“…Recounting the circumstances surrounding the particular loss (e.g., the accident, operation, fire, illness, death, funeral) may be all that is necessary to prompt active grief work. Other techniques include bringing in photographs, significant memorabilia, and "linking objects" (Volkan, 1972) to the therapy session; using gestalt-and psychodrama-based techniques such as "the empty chair" and role-reversal; keeping a dream diary; using imagery techniques (e.g., Cerney, 1985); and having the client identify and invite other relevant individuals (e.g., friends, family) to share in some aspects of the grieving process (e.g., Potash, 1985). Finally, while considered unusual by some therapists, it may be appropriate and therapeutic to arrange some "out of office" experiences with the client (e.g., returning together to a location frequented by the lost object, visiting the cemetery).…”

“…When the loss is the actual client, the therapist is likely to become particularly vulnerable. Potash (1985) and , for example, describe such an experience including some of the unique aspects (competency doubts, decisions to attend funeral, responding to the client's significant others) associated with dealing with the death of their own clients. In all these circumstances, therapists should consider consulting a colleague to discuss more personalized reactions and/or transferring clients until their own grief has been adequately addressed.…”