Grief lives in the body – in the catch of the breath, the heaviness of the chest, the longing held in open arms. This module invites therapists to sit with loss somatically, creating space for the full-bodied experience of grief without rushing toward resolution.
- Understanding grief as a somatic, relational, and spiritual process, drawing on theoretical perspectives including attachment theory and continuing bonds
- Recognising the physical signs of grief and mourning in the body – including collapse, contraction, heaviness, and yearning
- Differentiating between grief and depression, and between grief and trauma
- Identifying ways in which grief can become held, stuck, or complicated, and understanding the somatic underpinnings of these patterns
- Creating a therapeutic environment in which grief can be witnessed and honoured without pressure to resolve or move on
- Reflecting on their own experiences of loss and how these shape their capacity to be present with grieving clients
- Applying body-based practices (breath, movement and awareness) to help clients move through grief with greater ease and compassion
- Exploring post-traumatic growth and personal transformation in the aftermath of traumatic life events and bereavement