Counsellors’ Reflections on Disenfranchised Grief

Abstract

In this exploratory, qualitative study, six counsellors were interviewed about their understandings of the concept of disenfranchised grief (Doka, 1989, 2002) and perspectives on their work with clients who had experienced non-deathrelated losses. Further aims were to explore the extent to which counsellors’ own beliefs, values, and personal experiences of loss influenced this work and to gain an understanding of the ways in which practitioners may be affected when working with those who grieve. Key findings suggest that both personal experiences of loss and understandings of grief models influence counsellors’ work with their clients. The practitioners who were interviewed varied in their knowledge about the concept of disenfranchised grief. Their own personal experiences of loss influenced their practice. The complex nature of grieving processes was confirmed, as well as the multifaceted impact on counsellors of working with loss and grief. The implications for counsellors’ professional development and support are considered.