Elementary School Counselors Supporting Students Experiencing Anticipatory Grief

Abstract

The experience of grief after a death-related loss is endured by many, including elementary-aged, students. However, anticipatory grief, or the grieving process that begins when someone knows that a loved one is dying, can create additional challenges. This article explores how elementary-aged students grieve while anticipating a loved one’s death and how school counselors can use therapeutic approaches to address student’s needs and support them as they prepare for their loss.