Discuss the psychological and physical effects of loss and grief: How might an ethical therapist incorporate this knowledge into his/her work? Base your answer on the theories and models presented in Module 7.

Name: Zoe Foster
Date: 13th February 2015
Course: SOUTH2S14
Module #: 7
Tutor Name: Anni Richardson
Expected Word Count: 2500
Actual Word Count: 2702

Introduction

In this essay I will discuss what grief is and the kind of grief a client could experience. We will move onto attachment theory and its link as to why we grieve. I will then look at what tools are available for counsellors to support their clients through a normal or abnormal grieving process.

Grief, Loss and Change

A grief process can be kicked off by
Figure 2: From Focus Mediation Website – Adapted from Kubler-Ross model

There are alternative views to that of a time oriented theory. Debbie Messer Zlatin, also working with terminally ill patients suggested that individuals look to interpret their own identity during such periods. Lisa Prosser-Dodds (2013) discusses both ‘linear’ and ‘circular’ grieving processes that are under discussion within the profession. She includes the suggestion of “waves of acutely painful emotions” being more of an ongoing process in grief.

Grief has also been likened to a temporary depression; although some grief may lead to ongoing depression. A counsellor must be understand where grief ends and longer term depression is now seated with the client. If someone is grieving, anti-depressants may simply slow the journey through the grief curve. Similarly, if someone is suffering from depression and it’s clear the symptoms have been exacerbated by grief, it may be important to ensure a GP referral to have supporting medication.

With all of these different perspectives, it’s important to keep in mind that any research and theory done through observation extends our professional knowledge and undending. Rather than considering theories as ‘competitive’, surely all observations are useful in understanding the varying