In the following literature review, the topic of grief counseling practices and effectiveness is discussed along with the client-centered approach in adapting a cultural awareness. These topics are specifically explored because the client in this case presents issues that are closely related to the recent death of her brother. Much of our time during session has been centered on moving the client into a state of awareness and acceptance over the recent passing. This client in particular has expressed during session that she considers herself a part of a tribe that differs distinctly from the western culture. In fact, many of the client’s presenting issues are also closely related to the discrepancies between the two cultures and how death is
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The author also notes that “rather than simply mending loss” (p. 33), counselors should focus on keeping the session centered on the positive views of grief. In a broad overview of the article’s suggested intervention strategies, a framework of qualities counselors should represent are: “empathic presence, gentle conversation, available space, and engaging trust” (p. 40). Empathic presence is first listed because it is geared to aid the client is free association of expressing their feelings. Qualities of empathic presence bases its foundation in listening, approach silence, and support. Gentle conversation is directed to help the counselor avoid things not to say, such as “clichés and easy answers” like “get over it” and “better days will come” (p. 40). Avoiding items such as these and focusing more on open ended questions allows the client to explore and remember memories of their departed. The article recommends using pictures, drawings, or other expressive modalities to aid the client gentle conversation. The third intervention, available space, addresses the client-centered approach in helping the client find outside support and encouragement aside from the client-counselor relationship. Also, allowing for available space gives client …show more content…
In a brief overview of the article written by Ober, Granello, and Wheaton (2012), it is deliberated that dealing with clients and grief is a sure thing for all counselors and the anticipation of increased demand will continue to rise as the baby boomers begin to experience extensive losses. Although the demand for competence and training will arise with counselors, it is noted in the article that according to the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), it is not a core requirement in our curriculum to receive specific training regarding clients whom are dealing with grief or loss. Many of the main points highlighted in the article discuss how their sample size of 1,000 counselors in a Midwestern state felt that they needed additional training in this area and many of the counselors in the sample had to individually seek out additional resources and training services to further help them aid clients in the specific area of grief counseling. One specific point the article shed light on was that “grief counseling competence is not related to personal grief experiences…because it demonstrates that all counselors, regardless of their personal experiences, can become competent in this area” (p. 156).
The author also notes that “rather than simply mending loss” (p. 33), counselors should focus on keeping the session centered on the positive views of grief. In a broad overview of the article’s suggested intervention strategies, a framework of qualities counselors should represent are: “empathic presence, gentle conversation, available space, and engaging trust” (p. 40). Empathic presence is first listed because it is geared to aid the client is free association of expressing their feelings. Qualities of empathic presence bases its foundation in listening, approach silence, and support. Gentle conversation is directed to help the counselor avoid things not to say, such as “clichés and easy answers” like “get over it” and “better days will come” (p. 40). Avoiding items such as these and focusing more on open ended questions allows the client to explore and remember memories of their departed. The article recommends using pictures, drawings, or other expressive modalities to aid the client gentle conversation. The third intervention, available space, addresses the client-centered approach in helping the client find outside support and encouragement aside from the client-counselor relationship. Also, allowing for available space gives client …show more content…
In a brief overview of the article written by Ober, Granello, and Wheaton (2012), it is deliberated that dealing with clients and grief is a sure thing for all counselors and the anticipation of increased demand will continue to rise as the baby boomers begin to experience extensive losses. Although the demand for competence and training will arise with counselors, it is noted in the article that according to the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), it is not a core requirement in our curriculum to receive specific training regarding clients whom are dealing with grief or loss. Many of the main points highlighted in the article discuss how their sample size of 1,000 counselors in a Midwestern state felt that they needed additional training in this area and many of the counselors in the sample had to individually seek out additional resources and training services to further help them aid clients in the specific area of grief counseling. One specific point the article shed light on was that “grief counseling competence is not related to personal grief experiences…because it demonstrates that all counselors, regardless of their personal experiences, can become competent in this area” (p. 156).