Complex and Complicated Grief

Complex and Complicated Grief presents a comprehensive framework for recognizing and treating a difficult condition that is often overlooked in many patients.  Drawing on the work of grief theorists, this course traces the history and terminology of complicated grief and reviews the clinical diagnosis of prolonged grief. The session identifies risk factors that contribute to this diagnosis, such as traumatic or unexpected loss, insufficient social support, complicated relationships, and disrupted rituals, among others. A variety of treatment options are explored to maximize clinical outcomes along with options for treating complicated grief in children, somatic approaches, prevention with high-risk clients, memorialization of belongings, grief related to overdose deaths, and the role of social support. By the end of the session, participants will be able to differentiate complex grief from other grief presentations, apply narrative and trauma-focused techniques in treatment, and integrate the emotional, psychological, and relational dimensions of grief into clinical practice.