Principles and Practice of Grief Counseling / Edition 3

by Darcy L. Harris PhD, FT, Howard R. Winokuer PhD

Overview

This core introductory text, with a focus on clinical application, combines the knowledge and skills of counseling psychology with current theory and research in grief and bereavement. The third edition is updated to address issues related to the developmental aspects of grief, including grief in children and young people, grief as a lifespan concept, and grief in an increasingly aging demographic. It describes new therapeutic approaches and examines the neurological basis of grief as well as trauma from disruption and loss. Also emphasized is the role of diversity, along with cultural considerations in grief counseling. Instructor’s resources include a Test Bank, Instructor’s Manual, and PowerPoint slides.

User-friendly, while grounded in the latest research and theoretical constructs, the text offers such pedagogical aids as learning objectives, practice examples, glossary terms, and questions for reflection in each chapter. Above all, the book addresses grief counseling and support in a way that is informed and practical. The content explores concepts relevant to complicated grief, while differentiating the normal human experience of grief from mental disorders. Purchase includes digital access for use on mobile devices and computers.

NEW TO THE THIRD EDITION:
• Updated research and content on attachment and grieving styles
• Expansion of social issues impacting grief including political changes, environmental concerns, cultural differences, and exposure to terrorism
• New theory, research, and practice for grief in non-death losses
• New information on diversity and grief, the role of grounding and contemplative practices, and grief and developmental perspectives across the lifespan
• Use of technology in both professional and informal grief support
• New case studies with additional case scenarios for real-world application
• Practice examples containing clinical application information in each chapter

KEY FEATURES:
• Focuses on clinical application
• Combines the knowledge and skills of counseling psychology with current theory and research in grief and bereavement
• Written in easy-to-understand language, with emphasis on practical application
• Includes learning objectives, practice examples, glossary terms, and questions for reflection
• Supplemental Instructor’s Manual, Test Bank, and PowerPoints included

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780826173324
Publisher:	Springer Publishing Company
Publication date:	11/08/2019
Edition description:	3rd ed.
Pages:	312
Product dimensions:	7.00(w) x 10.00(h) x (d)

About the Author

Darcy L. Harris, Ph.D., FT, is an associate professor in the Department of Interdisciplinary Programs at King’s University College at Western University in London, Ontario, Canada, where she is the coordinator of the Thanatology Program. She also maintains a private clinical practice with a focus on issues related to change, loss, and transition.

Howard R. Winokuer, PhD, LPC, NCC, FT, is the founder of the Winokuer Center for Counseling and Healing in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he maintains a full-time clinical practice.

Table of Contents

CONTENTS

Preface

Acknowledgments

Part I: Theoretical Underpinnings

1. Thoughts About Counseling

2. Unique Aspects of Grief Counseling

3. Theories and Orientation to Bereavement

4. The Social Context of Loss

Part II: Practice and Process

5. The Practice of Presence

6. The Basics of Counseling Practice

7. Working With Bereaved Individuals

8. Living Losses: Nonfinite Loss, Ambiguous Loss, and Chronic Sorrow

9. Working With Emotions—Yours and Theirs

10. When Grief Goes Awry

11. The Clinician’s Toolbox: Therapeutic Modalities and Techniques in the Context of Grief

12. Ethical Issues in Grief Counseling Practice

Part III: Current Issues and Trends

13. Caregiver Issues for Grief Counselors

14. Current Issues and Trends for Grief Counselors

15. Case Studies in Grief Counseling

Afterword

Index

Editorial Reviews

Reviewer: Gary B Kaniuk, PsyD (Cermak Health Services)
Description: This book on grief counseling discusses theory, intervention, and ethical issues for counselors. Online access to the book increases portability and searching power. This is an update of the second edition published in 2015.
Purpose: It is intended as an introductory book, with a focus on clinical application that "combines the knowledge and skills of counseling psychology with current theory and research in grief and bereavement."
Audience: The authors note in the preface, "this book grew out of our need to have a text for the university-based courses that each of us teaches to students who are interested in furthering their knowledge and skills in grief counseling and support." Professionals will benefit from this material as well. Darcy L. Harris, associate professor at King's University College at Western University in Ontario, Canada, has developed an undergraduate degree program in thanatology. Howard R. Winokuer, now in private practice, has over 40 years of experience in the field.
Features: The first part considers theoretical issues, focusing on the goal of grief counseling, which is to help individuals address feelings and memories of the deceased in accord with their preferences. There are different modalities (individual, family, group) but the goal is to empower clients after a traumatic loss. The authors discuss the dual process model of grief, developed in the early 2000s, which uses attachment theory to offer assistance. They note the two-track model and the continuing bonds theory show that the relationship with the deceased changes over time. Part II explores the basics of working with bereaved clients, including the importance of therapists learning how to be fully present in the moment, highly focused, and engaged. Therapists must understand the grieving process and the bereaved client's preferences so that the work can be productive. Ethical issues for clinicians in this field include self-awareness, boundaries, confidentiality, dual relationships, and competence. Part III discusses current trends. Grief counseling can be exhausting, so counselors must be aware of this dynamic and attend to self-care. Therapists should be aware of the latest research ideas, especially the use of technology. The book contains exhibits, figures, tables, and practice examples. Each chapter contains learning objectives, a glossary of terms, and questions for reflection.
Assessment: This excellent book discusses the many different aspects of grief counseling. It is practical, providing a step-by-step approach, and should be in the libraries of students and professionals. The third edition incorporates updates in research and content, new theories, the use of technology, and practice examples..

Doody's Review Service

This is a thoughtful book about grief counseling and support. It is clear and accessible and useful for professionals who are just at the beginning of their career, or seasoned counselors who wish to reflect and extend their own learnings. In general, the book weaves theory and practical implications in a way that is accessible and practical. There is an excellent glossary at the end of each chapter that serves as a summary of terms. In summary, the book encompasses both solid scholarship combined with wise counsel that is the domain of excellent counseling. This book draws attention to the privilege of this work and the strength and resilience of the human spirit. This book would be a fine addition to any library.

Dr. Annie Cantwell-Bartl