The Impact on the Family Therapist of a Focus on Death, Dying, and Bereavement

Abstract

Recognizing the growing numbers of family therapists who are choosing a focus on death, dying, and bereavement, this article addresses the nature of the commitment required--as well as the gifts and challenges presented by work in this area. Particular attention is given to therapists' vulnerability to compassion fatigue and/or vicarious traumatization, both of which are described and discussed. A variety of strategies for individuals and institutions, aimed at supporting professionals and preventing problems, are considered. It is concluded that as family therapists focus on self-care as well as client care, they have the potential to increase not only their effectiveness but also to enhance their own well-being. Implications for training and for research on this topic also are considered.

Caring for Dying Children and Their Families: MFTs Working at the Gates of the Elysian Fields

“…Authors conceptualize the impact of professional stress on mental health professionals as either burnout, secondary traumatization, or vicarious traumatization (Canfield 2005;Dunkley and Whelan 2006;Figley 1995;Hesse 2002;McCann and Pearlman 1990;McLean et al 2003;Pearlman and Saakvitne 1995;Pensson et al 2000;Witt Sherman 2004). The same concepts can be found in the literature as they relate to professional stress on therapists working with chronically ill or dying people (Becvar 2003;Catalan et al 1996, Davies et al 1996Henning 2005;Kaplan 2000;Lattonzi-Licht in Papadatou 1991;Lyckholm 2001;Papadatou 2000;Papadatou et al 2002;Pensson et al 2000;Rushton 2004;Witt Sherman 2004).…”

“…When the focus is on working with dying children and their families, the struggle to balance emotional involvement with the clients, while providing good care, might be particularly burdening for MFTs and other professionals (Becvar 2003;Kaplan 2000;Papadatou 2000). In addition, through the systemic lens by means of which they conceptualize the world as well as suffering, MFTs might be at a greater risk since they are trained to look at the interplay of the suffering of the child, families, and members of the health care team.…”

“…However, this study does not address how specific issues, or different types of human suffering, have an impact on mental health professionals in general and paticularly on MFTs. Becvar (2003) specifically addressed the impact on MFTs who work with loss, particularly with death and dying issues. Becvar noted the lack of research in the MFT literature with this particular focus.…”

Ayudando a Una Loba Solitaria y Su Cub Moribundo: Helping a Lone Wolf and Her Dying Cub

“…She might be a good option if Maria and Pablo want to work with a professional counselor at this point or down the road. Although some would not consider a family therapist as an optimal choice for delving into end of life issues, Becvar argues that the family clinician may have an added dimension of insight [6]. This may include a greater understanding of family dynamics, systems theory, and the ability to spend more time with their clients [6].…”

“…Finally, helpers should be mindful of their personal boundaries and limits to help solve issues. Kaplan (2000), as cited by Becvar, explains that it would be easy to become overly absorbed [6].…”