I have over five years of experience in bereavement counseling, having worked in both hospice settings and private practices. My approach involves a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques to help clients navigate their grief. I've successfully supported individuals through various types of loss, including sudden and expected deaths, and have facilitated group therapy sessions to foster community support.

In cases of resistance, I focus on building a rapport based on trust and empathy. I listen attentively to their concerns and tailor my approach to meet their needs, often starting with more general conversations about their feelings. Gradually, I introduce therapeutic techniques that align with their comfort level, ensuring they feel in control of the process. This patient and respectful approach often helps in overcoming initial resistance.

One challenging case involved a client who was deeply traumatized by a sudden loss. Initially, they were non-communicative and withdrawn. I employed a trauma-informed approach, focusing on safety and stabilization before delving into the traumatic event. Over time, through consistent support and the use of expressive arts therapy, they began to open up and process their grief, eventually leading to significant emotional healing.

To maintain my emotional well-being, I practice self-care through regular exercise, meditation, and maintaining a supportive social network. I also engage in regular supervision sessions with a senior counselor to discuss challenging cases and seek guidance. Additionally, I ensure I have downtime to recharge and reflect on my work, which helps prevent burnout and keeps me effective in my role.

I stay updated by regularly attending workshops, webinars, and conferences focused on grief and bereavement. I also subscribe to several professional journals and online forums where the latest research is discussed. This continuous learning ensures that I can integrate the most effective and evidence-based practices into my counseling sessions, enhancing the support I provide to my clients.